cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variants of the 5'-untranslated region of human NCF2: expression and translational efficiency.

Abstract The NCF2 gene encodes p67phox, an essential component of the multi-protein NADPH oxidase enzyme in phagocytic leukocytes, as well as in certain non-phagocytic cells. In humans, the NCF2 gene is expressed as multiple NCF2 variants that differ in the 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR). Previously, we reported the presence of four NCF2 5′-UTR mRNA variants (designated as NCF2 exon 1, intron 1a, intron 1b and intron 1c). As each of the gene variants encodes an identical p67phox protein, the functional significance of these message variants was not apparent. In this study, we investigated the relative expression levels and tissue-specificity of NCF2 5′-UTR variant mRNAs and their translation efficiency and stability. NCF2 5′-UTR variant transcripts were differentially expressed in various cell lines and human tissues. In vitro translation assays indicated that the NCF2 5′-UTR variants also differed in their effects on the translation of a luciferase reporter mRNA and NCF2 mRNA. Notably, NCF2 intron 1 5′-UTR variants, which are the predominantly expressed variants found in vivo, strongly inhibited translation when compared to the NCF2 exon 1 5′-UTR variant. In contrast, RNA decay assays demonstrated that there was no significant difference between stability of NCF2 intron 1 transcripts and the exon 1 5′-UTR variant in HL-60, MonoMac 6, and U937 cells. Moreover, expression of the variant transcripts remained unchanged after neutrophil phagocytosis, and was similar in normal neutrophils and neutrophils from a patient with X-linked chronic granulomatous disease. These studies suggest that expression of p67phox is regulated through mechanisms that include modulation of transcription and translation.
Parallel sorting in two-dimensional VLSI models of computation

The gradual refinement of a general approach to two-dimensional sorting, the shear-sort algorithm, to more sophisticated and specialized sorting algorithms on mesh-connected computers is described. The analysis of the shear-sort algorithm gives rise to a novel perspective of two-dimensional sorting, which seems to be a very powerful tool for developing efficient algorithms. The same methods can be extended for sorting in higher dimensions, for example, in the three-dimensional mesh. The concept of clean and dirty rows can be modified to clean and dirty planes (or hyperplanes for dimensions greater than three). Although only two schemes (purely recursive and iterative) are explicitly described, the reader may construct his own algorithm using similar technique and slight modifications. Designing an O(n) algorithm for sorting on a mesh becomes much simpler using the techniques developed. >
Collateral response to activation of potassium channels in vivo.

Activation of ATP-sensitive K+ channels is involved in the coronary vascular response to decreases in perfusion pressure and ischemia. Since activation of ATP-sensitive K+ channels in collateral vessels may be important in determining flow to collateral-dependent myocardium, the ability of collaterals to respond to activation of the channel was tested. In the beating heart of dogs, we compared responses of non-collaterals less than 100 μm in diameter to collaterals of similar size using computer-controlled stroboscopic epi-illumination of the left ventricle coupled to a microscope-video system. Aprikalim, a selective activator of ATP-sensitive K+ channels (0.1–10 μM) produced similar dose-dependent dilation of non-collaterals and collaterals. Relaxation was decreased by inhibition of ATP-sensitive K+ channels with glibenclamide, but not by inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with nitro-L-arginine. Bradykinin (10–100 μM) produced similar dilation of non-collaterals and collaterals which was decreased by nitro-L-arginine but not glibenclamide. Thus, in microvascular collaterals, relaxation to both nitric oxide and activation of ATP-sensitive K+ channels is similar to non-collaterals.
Spectral modelling used to identify the aggregates index of asphalted surfaces and sensitivity analysis

Abstract This article focuses on the spectral variability of asphalt compared with its surface characteristics, in particular, with the amount of exposed aggregate. Any uncertainties in the chemical or physical composition of the asphalt or in its alteration status may cause erroneous results. Improved understanding of the spectral properties of asphalt can be used to optimise road network management policies. Pavement aging and degradation detection is one of the primary issues in infrastructure management faced by local authorities in the area of safety standards. In this study, various asphalt samples from Central Italy are characterised by digital RGB photos combined with their spectral signatures. Because the spectral response is influenced by the presence of exposed aggregate and bitumen, it is crucial to define an objective index that could indicate either their presence or absence. Using the Exposed Aggregates Index (EAI) method on each photo, the aggregates surface occupation is determined by the supervised classification of the RGB photo dataset using the parallelepiped method. The result is then compared with a spectral response of the target. Using this process, a series of new spectral indices is identified in a range of wavelengths from 400 to 900 nm that show statistical correlation and physical significance to changes in bitumen and exposed aggregates. In particular, the first derivative of the spectrum at 400 nm and the reflectance values at 460, 490, 740 and 830 nm are very sensitive to changes in the EAI. An empirical relation for the exposed aggregates is found during the calibration step for any of the relations between the spectral index and the EAI. This relation is linked to the degradation of the targets with an RMSE of 0.09. The final phase of the work focuses on uncertainty and sensitivity analyses of the model, demonstrating the robustness of the equation identified for the relation.
Evaluating college teaching as leadership

Leadership studies provide a perspective from which to view college teaching. Evidence is presented for conceptual and perceptual similarities between leadership and teaching. Both the number and content of dimensions found in descriptions and evaluations of both teaching and leadership are similar. Hypotheses validated in leadership studies also receive empirical support from teacher evaluation data. The examination of teaching in the context of measuring leadership suggests guidelines for designing programs to evaluate and to improve teacher effectiveness.
Organizational Factors in the Theory of Oligopoly

Introduction, 44. — I. Motivational assumptions, 46. — II. The planning process, 49. — III. Organizational slack, 53. — IV. Empirical relevance, 55. — V. Theoretical relevance, 58. — VI. Summary, 62.
High-resolution coherent anti-stokes raman spectroscopy measurements of carbon monoxide linewidths in a flame

We have used a high-resolution (0.005 cm −1 ) coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) experiment to obtain fully resolved CARS spectra in a flame. Spectra of Q -branch transitions of CO and O -branch transitions of N 2 were analyzed to obtain J-dependent Raman linewidths. The CO linewidths are compared to infrared P- and R-branch linewidths measured by other workers in similar rich methane/air flames. The results demonstrate the utility of high-resolution CARS for providing spectral information needed for applying conventional CARS to combustion environments.
Study of structurally defined oligosaccharide substrates of heparin and heparan monosulfate lyases.

Abstract The rapid preparation of multimilligram quantities of five heparin-derived oligosaccharides (1–5) is described. These oligosaccharides are the final products obtained from the action of heparin lyase (heparinase, E.C. 4.2.2.7) at its primary sites in the heparin polymer. Five oligosaccharides comprise from 75–85 wt% of commercial porcine mucosal heparins and are recovered in good yield and high purity. Four of these five oligosaccharides were further acted upon at much lower rates by prolonged treatment with heparin lyase or heparan monosulfate lyase (heparitinase, E.C. 4.2.2.8), revealing the subspecificities of these enzymes. These oligosaccharides were used as defined substrates for heparin lyase and heparan monosulfate lyase and their kinetic constants were obtained. Potential applications for these oligosaccharides include their use as defined substrates for purification of heparin monosulfate lyases, and for establishing the catalytic purity of enzyme preparations.
Reduction of High Nitrate Concentrations in a Central New York State Stream Impounded by Beaver

Abstract The influence of Castor canadensis (North American Beaver) impoundments on the loss of nitrate (NO3-) from stream water was monitored for 14 months at four sites in Homer Gulf Creek in central New York State. A relatively high NO3- concentration of 1.56 (0.14) mg N/L (mean (SEM)) at the upstream site was reduced by a daily average of 35.5% as the water passed through the beaver ponds. There was a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the mean values among the four sites, and significant differences were measured between the upstream site and each of the three downstream sites. The reduction in NO3- within the upstream beaver pond was significantly (P = 0.005) greater during the warmer months (April–September) of the study vs. the October–March period, suggesting biological processes were responsible. Stream water NO3- may have been transformed through biological processes, including the microbial process of denitrification, enhanced in the beaver ponds as a result of anoxic sediments, sufficient ...
Detection of iron binding proteins by a blotting technique

We describe a simple method for detecting iron binding proteins based on binding of 59Fe to protein blots from SDS gels followed by autoradiography. This binding is specific and is not affected by other metal ions. The method has allowed identification of new iron binding proteins in intestinal mucosa and in Hela cells.
China, the United States Navy, and the Bethlehem Steel Company, 1909–1929

The tangled purposes of national economic policy in the early decades of the twentieth century are highlighted in Professor Braisted's analysis of an episode which pledged officers and secrets of the U.S. Navy to the advancement of American business in the Far East.
The Essentials of Extracranial Carotid Ultrasonographic Imaging

In this article, the standard ultrasonographic scanning techniques and Doppler settings necessary to produce reliable and reproducible carotid imaging are discussed. The normal carotid anatomy is reviewed, including grayscale, color Doppler, and spectral Doppler imaging appearances, is reviewed. The vascular abnormalities caused by atherosclerosis are examined, including plaque morphology characterization as well as waveform and velocity changes caused by stenosis, are examined. In addition, special situations are explored, such as imaging in the presence of an arrhythmia or cardiac assist devices. Imaging after carotid intervention is discussed, including the complications associated with these procedures.
Addictive disorders in adolescents.

Substance use and abuse among adolescents in the United States is highly prevalent and continues to be a serious problem. 16 Concern is mounting regarding the health risks associated with adolescent substance use and abuse because of epidemiologic data demonstrating (1) a continued increase in the incidence of substance use among youth, 15 (2) a decrease in the age at first diagnosis of substance-use disorder, and (3) that alcohol and other drugs have been identified as leading causes of adolescent morbidity and mortality consequent to motor vehicle accidents, suicidal behavior, violence, falls, drowning, and unprotected sexual behavior. This article reviews the following topics: epidemiology of substance use in adolescents; the natural history of adolescent substance use and the transition to substance-use disorders; psychiatric comorbidity, assessment, and interventions, including prevention and treatment.
Recommendations for effective loose parts monitoring

Abstract Loose parts monitoring systems are used to detect structure borne sound that can indicate the presence of impacting metal parts inside the primary coolant system of commercial nuclear power reactors. Experience with these systems has not been uniform, with cases including high false alarm rates, failure to detect loose parts, and limited capability for interpreting alarms and signals. Utilities have become increasingly aware of benefits that can be obtained from loose parts monitoring as a result of events that damage steam generator tubes, require fuel and reactor internals cleaning, and cause fuel pin failures. A research project, sponsored by the Electric Power Research Institute, used metal impact theory and experimental data to develop a quantitative description of loose part signals as a function of impact, signal transmission, and detection properties. These signal properties were used to develop recommendations for the number, location, and attachment of sensors, and methods for signal processing, recording, impact response calibration, system surveillance, and signal interpretation. Technical considerations and experience link these systems to combined applications for component vibration and rotating equipment monitoring.
Recent concepts of retinal color mechanism. II. Contributions from anatomy and physiology.

Analysis of spectral response peaks shows that receptor curves can hardly be deduced by psychophysics or nerve physiology. Conversely, however, even the two known dyes may suffice for all the spectral response peaks, narrow or wide. The detailed structure of the receptor is basis for a masking mechanism which accounts for 3 absorptions, peaked near 510, 540, and 620 mμ. From these, synaptic mechanisms can produce 4 color primaries at the bipolar level, and 6 selectivities at the fiber level. The synaptic detail for this (based on Polyak, Willmer, Muller, and Adams) separates white, and provides for dichromasies, unitary hues, saturation, and nonlinearity of color-limens.By such mechanism, color antagonists may be transmitted by simple modulation of a mean frequency. Transmission has only a transient appearance, due to a series of electrochemical counter-effects which give minimal signal for steady-state information. Amacrine cells and retinal polarizations apparently relate to this, and thereby constancy and lateral induction of black and hue. Acuity in continuous illumination, in a system which transmits mainly transients, is handled by a scanning system. Other counterparts to color television are discussed.
Superposition of episodic memories: overdistribution and quantum models

Memory exhibits episodic superposition, an analog of the quantum superposition of physical states: Before a cue for a presented or unpresented item is administered on a memory test, the item has the simultaneous potential to occupy all members of a mutually exclusive set of episodic states, though it occupies only one of those states after the cue is administered. This phenomenon can be modeled with a nonadditive probability model called overdistribution (OD), which implements fuzzy-trace theory's distinction between verbatim and gist representations. We show that it can also be modeled based on quantum probability theory. A quantum episodic memory (QEM) model is developed, which is derived from quantum probability theory but also implements the process conceptions of global matching memory models. OD and QEM have different strengths, and the current challenge is to identify contrasting empirical predictions that can be used to pit them against each other.
Theoretical studies of the effect of thio substitution on orotidine monophosphate decarboxylase substrates.

The effect of replacing carbonyl oxygens with sulfur in a series of orotidine 5‘-monophosphate decarboxylase (ODCase) substrates was studied computationally. Previous experimental results indicate ...
A high resolution study of 26Al via the (p, d) reaction

Abstract Excitation energies and angular distributions of 26 Al levels in the first 6 MeV of excitation have been measured with the 27 Al(p, d) 26 Al reaction at E p = 35 MeV. Deuteron spectra were analyzed with an Enge split-pole magnetic spectrograph and recorded on nuclear emulsions (experimental resolution ≈ 6 keV, FWHM); supplementary data were recorded with position-sensitive wire proportional counters. The angular distributions were analyzed with the DWBA to extract the l -values and associated spectroscopic factors of the neutron transfers. The results for excitation energies, l -values, spectroscopic factors, and values of J π , T are discussed in terms of previous experimental and theoretical work and in the light of new shell-model calculations for this system.
The Hypocholesterolemic Agent Dichloroacetate Increases Egg Cholesterol Content of Laying Hens

Experiments were conducted to determine whether a diet with added dichloroacetate (DCA), an inhibitor of cholesterol biosynthesis, would influence plasma and egg cholesterol concentrations when fed to laying hens. In the first experiment, 62-wk-old laying hens (10 hens per treatment) were fed a control diet containing 0, 350, 700, or 1,400 ppm DCA for an 8-wk period. Egg production and size, feed intake, weight gain, and plasma and egg cholesterol were determined at biweekly intervals. In a second experiment, 36-wk-old laying hens (eight hens per treatment) received diets with 0, 3,000, or 6,000 ppm added DCA for a period of 6 wk. Production parameters and cholesterol measurements were conducted as in Experiment 1. Egg production and feed intake were significantly decreased with increasing levels of DCA in Experiment 1. In the second experiment, 6,000 ppm DCA sharply reduced feed intake, body weight, and egg production. Yolk weight and percentage yolk were significantly decreased by the higher levels of DCA used in Experiment 2. Total plasma cholesterol was not affected by dichloroacetate in either of the experiments. In contrast, egg cholesterol concentration increased by 10 and 37% in Experiments 1 and 2, respectively, in response to diets with added DCA when compared with the unsupplemented controls. Total egg cholesterol increased in response to dietary DCA in Experiment 1, but not consistently in Experiment 2 due to the decreased yolk size of the hens fed DCA. The results of these studies indicate that dietary DCA was not effective in reducing egg cholesterol concentrations.
Nietzsche, the Tragic-Real, and the Exquisite Corpse of Theory

A travers l'analyse des dichotomies nietzscheennes entre le dionysiaque et le socratique, le dionysiaque et l'apollinien, l'A. etudie de facon schematique le mouvement difficile par lequel la theorie de la tragedie (ou la tragedie de la theorie) se constitue comme la perpetuite de ses propres limites et l'impossibilite d'un au-dela de la dialecticite propre a la crise metaphysique
Development of Empirical, Geographically Specific Water Quality Criteria: A Conditional Probability Analysis Approach

: The need for scientifically defensible water quality standards for nonpoint source pollution control continues to be a pressing environmental issue. The probability of impact at differing levels of nonpoint source pollution was determined using the biological response of instream organisms empirically obtained from a statistical survey. A conditional probability analysis was used to calculate a biological threshold of impact as a function of the likelihood of exceeding a given value of pollution metric for a specified geographic area. Uncertainty and natural variability were inherently incorporated into the analysis through the use of data from a probabilistic survey. Data from wadable streams in the mid-Atlantic area of the U.S. were used to demonstrate the approach. Benthic macroinvertebrate community index values (EPT taxa richness) were used to identify impacted stream communities. Percent fines in substrate (silt/clay fraction, > 0.06 mm) were used as a surrogate indicator for sedimentation. Thresholds of impact due to sedimentation were identified by three different techniques, and were in the range of 12 to 15 percent fines. These values were consistent with existing literature from laboratory and field studies on the impact of sediments on aquatic life in freshwater streams. All results were different from values determined from current regulatory guidance. Finally, it was illustrated how these thresholds could be used to develop criterion for protection of aquatic life in streams.
Schistosoma mansoni: comparison of cloned tropomyosin antigens shared between adult parasites and Biomphalaria glabrata.

Rabbit antisera, raised against whole, homogenized hepatopancreas from uninfected Biomphalaria glabrata, were used to screen a cDNA library prepared from adult Schistosoma mansoni. Of 1.8 x 105 recombinants screened, 34 clones were specifically immunoreactive with the antisera. Twenty of the clones were subcloned for further analysis, and 13 of the 20 were demonstrated to hybridize to a cDNA probe encoding schistosome tropomyosin I (pSMTM) at high stringency (Xu et al. Experimental Parasitology69, 373–392, 1989). One partial cDNA clone (pSM4), which failed to hybridize to pSMTM, was used to rescreen the adult worm cDNA library and a 1381-bp cDNA clone, SmTMII, was identified and characterized. SmTMII contained a single 284-amino acid open reading frame and was shown to be 65.8% homologous to SMTM. Computer-assisted analysis of the predicted protein structure depicted a hydrophilic molecule with the extensive alpha helical secondary structure characteristic of tropomyosins. SmTMII was expressed in Escherichia coli and the resulting 45-kDa fusion protein was recognized by both a polyclonal antiserum specific for SMTM and the antiserum of mice chronically infected with S. mansoni. Northern analysis showed the SmTMII mRNA in the adult stage to be about 1.6 kb in size. Analysis of the SmTMII gene by Southern blot revealed a complex hybridization pattern suggesting the presence of introns or multiple gene copies. The 650-bp EcoRl fragment of SmTMII was used to screen a cDNA library prepared from uninfected Biomphalaria glabrata and two clones, each encoding a novel snail tropomyosin, BgTMII, were isolated and characterized. The two clones, consisting of 2816 and 2314 bp, respectively, differed from each other only in the polyadenylation signal used and each contained a single and identical 284-amino acid open reading frame having 94.7% homology with the previously reported snail tropomyosin, BG39 (Dissous et al. Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology43, 245–256, 1990). BgTMII was shown to have a higher amino acid homology with SMTM (68.3%) than with BG39 (65.1%) and a higher amino acid homology with SMTM than the two schistosome tropomyosins (SMTM and SmTMII) have with each other (65.8%). Implications of these observations in relation to the concept of host–parasite antigen mimicry are discussed.
Individual Differences in Attitude‐Behavior Consistency: The Prediction of Contraceptive Behavior

A model of individual differences that moderate attitude-behavior consistency was developed and tested in the context of predicting use consistency of the diaphragm. Variables hypothesized to moderate the attitude-behavior relationship included reactions to major life changes the attitudes and opinions of others sexual interest locus of control and the perceived susceptibility to pregnancy. Attitudes were conceptualized in terms of a Relative Contraceptive Utility (RCU) which was defined as the difference between the attitude toward the diaphragm and the attitude toward becoming pregnant. Women (n=110) who attended family planning clinics in the New York City area and who used the diaphragm for an 8-month period were interviewed in the context of a 3- wave panel design. A threshold function between RCU and behavior was observed such that when RCU was above an empirically derived cutoff women tended to use the diaphragm consistently over an 8-month period. For women with RCUs below the cutoff attitudes were unrelated to behavior. Inconsistency of diaphragm use for these latter women was best predicted by negative reactions to close friends experiences with the diaphragm low levels of perceived susceptibility to pregnancy alcohol consumption concern about becoming too old to have children a preference for nonromantic sex and the partners unwillingness to refrain from sex if the woman was not prepared. (authors)
Coincidences between extensive air showers and the Soudan 1 underground muon detector

We have operated the Soudan 1 underground muon detector in coincidence with a 36-m{sup 2} detector situated at the Earth's surface. Such a combination of detectors can yield information on the composition of the primary cosmic rays at energies above {similar to}3{times}10{sup 15} eV, where there is an abrupt change in the slope of the energy spectrum. The present experiment was meant to test the feasibility of operating such a system, and to obtain a first sample of data before the complete installation of the much larger Soudan 2 detector. These initial data seem to favor a light composition in the energy range 10{sup 15}--10{sup 16} eV, but there are significant systematic uncertainties.
Protonated ethanol and its neutral counterparts

Collisionally activated dissociation and neutralization-reionization experiments reveal that protonation of ethanol leads to two distinct isomers, the classical ion CH3CH2OH+2 and the proton-bound complex C2H4… H+… OH2. The neutral counterpart of the latter is unstable, whereas that of the former can be produced in a bound state if the CH3CH2OH+2 precursor ion is formed under low ion source pressure conditions and, thus, with higher internal energies. This suggests that there are substantial differences in the geometries of CH3CH2OH(+) 2 and the hypervalent CH3CH2OH2·. This provides only a partial explanation for unusual isotope effects; C2H5OD2·, CH3CD2OD2·, and CD3CH2OD2. are substantially more stable than C2D5OD2 · and C2H5OH2·.
Laboratory induction of intersexuality in the mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis, using paper mill effluent.

Intersexual traits have been described in a wild population of mosquitofish in a northwest Florida (USA) stream which receives effluents from a paper/kraft mill (Howell et al. 1980). Adult female Gambusia affinis taken as far as 15 km downstream of the discharge frc~ the kraft mill effluent (KME) were phenotypically masculinized (arrhenoid), exhibiting a range from imperfect to well-developed exani01es of gonopodial anal-fins and exhibiting elements of male reproductive behavior. Male _G. affinis from the same area precociously developed secondary male sex characters. Subsequently, surveys of another Florida stream receiving paper mill effluent in a separate drainage 400 km distant, revealed the same condition in the least killifish, Heterandria formosa, the sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna, as well as mosquitofish (Howell et al. 1980, Bortone and Drysdale 1981).
Probing coal structure with organic vapour sorption

Abstract Kinetic and steady-state studies of organic vapour sorption by coal particles were utilized to elucidate the mechanisms involved when vapours are sorbed by coal and to evaluate the application of this technique for investigating the structure of coal. Although in many ways the sorption of organic vapours by coal is analogous to vapour sorption by synthetic polymers and rubbers, this study indicates that there are significant differences between the two processes. Several techniques and analyses which have been used to investigate the structure of synthetic macromolecules were found not to be applicable for the vapour sorption conditions utilized in these experiments. Although theories developed to describe the equilibrium swelling of a polymer can correlate coal sorption data, the resulting values of the parameters in the correlating equations are inconsistent with their physical meaning. Kinetic studies clearly indicate that sorption into coal under the conditions considered in this study is very complex and involves changes in coal structure and possible other non-equilibrium phenomena.
The importance of etiology on the clinical course of neck abscesses

Objective Formation of neck abscesses from injecting illicit drugs continues to be a common problem in the United States. We sought to determine whether neck abscesses resulting from direct inoculation differ in their clinical course and severity from those that arise from direct spread through inflamed tissue, as in pharyngitis or odontogenic infections. Study design and setting Patients were separated based on the cause of their neck abscess into either an injection drug use group or a noninjection drug use group. We retrospectively compared both groups of patients by examining multiple clinical endpoints, including the number of operations, length of hospital stay, and requirement for emergent airway intervention. Results Injection drug use was the most common cause of neck abscess. Only 1 of these patients needed more than 1 drainage procedure, and no patients required emergent airway intervention or an intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The majority of the patients in the noninjection drug group had a neck abscess as a result of unknown causes; nearly one half required an emergent operation for airway management and the mean ICU stay was 2.5 days. Conclusion Neck abscesses formed by direct inoculation have a relatively more benign clinical course than those resulting from spread through inflamed tissue. The latter require a longer hospital stay, more days in the ICU, and more emergent intervention.
Development of leadership competencies as a team

Creating positive change to move a leadership team forward in a learning environment was a challenge for senior executives. The author describes an organized approach to leadership competency development for both nursing and nonnursing department directors and senior administrative staff members. The project was based on a 360-degree assessment group composite analysis and was implemented during a 12-month period. Prioritization of leadership development occurred as a result of this effort within the facility strategic plan, and intradepartmental communication dramatically improved.
Transient dynamic response of piezoelectric bodies subjected to internal electric impulses

Abstract The response of piezoelectric bodies disturbed by internal electric sources is investigated using integral representations of Greens functions and their derivatives. The emphasis of the article is placed on transient dynamic phenomena promoted by high intensity electric discharges applied over very short intervals of time. To that end closed form integral representations of the electro-elastic variables are derived and applied to investigate the behavior of transversely isotropic piezoelectric ceramics. In particular, the characteristics of the induced stress and electric field components are investigated numerically for the case of charge impulses of triangular shape.
Magnetic Field Pickup by Flexible Braid Coaxial Cables

Cabling systems have long been known to be a source of unwanted pickup of radio-frequency interference. A typical source of pickup occurs when the outer sheath of a coaxial cable system forms part of a ground return for potentially interfering electromagnetic energy. Another source of penetration arises from a magnetic field which is perpendicular to the axis of the coaxial cable. A previous study demonstrated that the field emanating from a coaxial cable could be characterized as an equivalent open-wire pair. This particular effect is caused by the eccentricity between the centers of the outer and the inner conductors or because of other asymmetrical characteristics. The susceptibility of a coaxial cabling system to perpendicular magnetic fields can also be characterized in terms of an equivalent open-wire pair for short runs. The purpose of this investigation was to measure the shielding effectiveness of a typical flexible braid coaxial cable to magnetic fields perpendicular to its axis and to demonstrate that a coaxial cable may be considered as an equivalent open-wire pair in a cylindrical shield. A test setup employed a parallel plane transmission line to generate a uniform magnetic field perpendicular to the axis of the coaxial cable. The shielding effectiveness of the braid was measured for several classes of braid conditions. Then, using the same braid, a coaxial cable with an experimentally induced known eccentricity was employed and the overall pickup measured. The results confirmed the objectives of the investigation.
Construction of human factor IX expression vectors in retroviral vector frames optimized for muscle cells

ABSTRACT Development of a highly refined human factor IX (hFIX) expression vector system is critical for establishing a durable hemophilia B gene therapy. Here we report construction of a series of retroviral vectors and identification of an optimal basic structure and components for expressing hFIX in skeletal muscle cells. These vectors, which are derived from Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMLV) with its enhancer sequence in the 3′ long terminal repeat (LTR) deleted, contained internal hFIX expression units inserted in forward configuration without or with a viral vector intron sequence (pdL or pdLIn vector frame, respectively) or in inverted configuration without a viral vector intron sequence (pdLi frame). Internal expression units contained a hFIX cDNA or hFIX minigene (hlXm1 or hIXm2) derived from the hFIX cDNA by insertion of a shortened first intron sequence of the hFIX gene. Regardless of the promoter and vector frame used, both hIXml and hIXm2 gave 10- to 14-fold higher hFIX expression compare...
Congenital nystagmus in a (46, XX/45,X) mosaic woman from a family with X‐linked congenital nystagmus

X-linked congenital nystagmus is a rare disorder in which affected males manifest binocular uniplanar nystagmus with associated head oscillation. In the families previously reported, affected females have been described. We report on a multigeneration family with X-linked congenital nystagmus with an affected woman. She was a (46,XX/45,X) mosaic. Magnetic resonance images of the brain of affected individuals were normal.
Analysis of Adult-Neonate Synchrony during Speech and Nonspeech:

Five neonates and two adult female interactants were videotaped and categorized as to their interactionally synchronous movements during speech and nonspeech. Although synchrony occurred during speech as well as nonspeech, it was significantly more likely to occur during periods of speech. Duration of adults' movement were significantly shorter during speech and longer during nonspeech. These findings corroborate previous suggestions that interactional synchrony between adults and infants occurs on a micro-level.
Eosinophilic Granuloma of the Lung

Abstract Ten patients with biopsy-proved eosinophilic granuloma of the lung were followed for periods of as long as nine years. The disease occurs as an isolated lung lesion or in association with bone lesions. The roentgenographic pulmonary findings are either diffuse nodularity or a fine reticular pattern. Symptoms are few, and pneumothorax is frequent. Scalene node and liver biopsies are usually not fruitful, and the diagnosis must be made by open or needle lung biopsy. Consistently abnormal laboratory tests are impaired single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity and elevation of the alpha 2 globulin protein fraction of serum. Treatment usually is not required; however, if deterioration occurs, the patient may benefit from corticosteroid therapy.
Do amphiphile aggregate morphologies and interfacial compositions depend primarily on interfacial hydration and ion-specific interactions? The evidence from chemical trapping.

Surface-active amphiphiles aggregate spontaneously in water to form association colloids such as micelles, microemulsions, and vesicles. The hydrophobic effect drives aggregation, but the opposing forces that provide balance and determine equilibrium morphologies are not understood, in particular, how specific ion effects, which often follow a Hofmeister series, affect the properties of association colloids. We have harnessed the competitive trapping of arenediazonium ions by weakly basic nucleophiles such as halide counterions, anionic headgroups, alcohols, urea, and water, to estimate their concentrations in the interfacial regions of association colloids from reaction product yields. In the chemical trapping method, product yields are proportional to the concentrations of water and other nucleophiles within the interfacial region, not their stoichiometric concentrations in solution. Changes in the balance of forces controlling aggregate structure are reflected in changes in interfacial concentrations o...
The chitinous structures in the posterior abdominal segments of certain female termites

The external genitalia of female termites are readily homologized with those of female roaches. Mastotermes and other representative termites from every family are compared and their phylogenetic relationships within the group are found to agree, with the exception of the Hodotermitidae, with those based on studies of other structures.
A low-power 333Mbps mobile-double data rate output driver with adaptive feedback to minimize overshoots and undershoots

An area-efficient, low power, low voltage mobile double-data rate output driver topology for mobile applications is proposed. The driver with its feedback architecture minimizes the overshoot and undershoots by over 50% as compared to a conventional driver. It automatically adapts to a wide range of transmission line impedance (Z0 of 40-70 ohms) and delay (Td of 10--180 ps) using adaptive feedback. It operates at 333Mbps across a wide load range and does not require a separate area and power expensive process-temperature-voltage (PTV) compensation circuit. The feedback compensates for PTV and load variations. It has a near zero stand-by power dissipation.
A Risk-sharing Approach to Transfer Pricing and Incentive Compensation Problems under Exchange Rate Uncertainty*

This study examines the transfer pricing and incentive compensation problems in a multinational enterprise facing currency risk. It is shown that, in the presence of diverse risk preferences among managers, the Hirshleifer (1956) transfer pricing rule results in inefficient resource allocation decisions by division managers. Following the approach developed by Kanodia (1979), two transfer pricing and compensation systems are proposed. The proposed systems enable central management to achieve efficient resource allocation and partial or global risk sharing. It is also argued that the proposed plans can be implemented in conjunction with existing transfer pricing systems that primarily serve tax and tariff concerns.
Response to Comment on "Sustainable Power Generation in Microbial Fuel Cells Using Bicarbonate Buffer and Proton Transfer Mechanisms"

We appreciate that Ahn further emphasized the potential importance of the self-produced CO2 from the degradation of carbon sources in facilitating proton transfer (1). However, Ahn overestimated the possible CO2 (bicarbonate) concentration in our experiments. The claims “If the MFC had been operated under a continuous steady state condition, CO2 partial pressure in the headspace of MFC would be maintained at almost 1 atm.” and “if the MFC had well behaved under a steady state for a long-term period. The CO2 partial pressure of the MFC must be maintained to considerably high level, approximately 1 atm.” in the comment are not correct. Under steady state conditions, equilibrium is established between the dissolved CO2 in liquid phase and the CO2 gas in headspace. The concentrations of CO2 in the liquid and in the headspace remain constant since all the produced CO2 is carried away by the effluent. Based on the equation for calculating Columbic efficiency of MFCs under continuous flow mode (3), the maximum produced CO2 concentration (∆CCO2) can be calculated as: ∆CCO2 ) I FbqE c (1)
Material Properties of Titanium Diboride.

The physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of polycrystalline TiB2 are examined with an emphasis on the significant dependence of the properties on the density and grain size of the material specimens. Using trend analysis, property relations, and interpolation methods, a coherent set of trend values for the properties of polycrystalline TiB2 is determined for a mass fraction of TiB2 98 %, a density of (4.50.1) g/cm 3 , and a mean grain size of (91) m.
An Nlog/sup 2/N algorithm for scattering by a finite array of strips

Wave scattering of a truncated, nonuniform, finite array of strips (with or without dielectric supporter) is investigated using a recursive algorithm that calculates the scattering solution with N log/sup 2/ N computational complexity. The algorithm is validated with the method of moments. The scattering solutions from large strips and strip arrays are calculated for both E/sub z/ and H/sub z/ polarizations. The current distribution for the H/sub z/ polarization shows small-length-scale oscillations not present in the E/sub z/ polarization. >
Carboplatin and Paclitaxel in Combination With Either Vorinostat or Placebo for First-Line Therapy of Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Purpose Vorinostat, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, exerts anticancer effects by both histone and nonhistone–mediated mechanisms. It also enhances the anticancer effects of platinum compounds and taxanes in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines. This phase II randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy of vorinostat in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel in patients with advanced-stage NSCLC. Patients and Methods Patients with previously untreated stage IIIB (ie, wet) or IV NSCLC were randomly assigned (2:1) to carboplatin (area under the curve, 6 mg/mL × min) and paclitaxel (200 mg/m2 day 3) with either vorinostat (400 mg by mouth daily) or placebo. Vorinostat or placebo was given on days 1 through 14 of each 3-week cycle to a maximum of six cycles. The primary end point was comparison of the response rate. Results Ninety-four patients initiated protocol therapy. Baseline patient characteristics were similar between the two arms. The median number of cycle...
Anomalies in Nonlinear $\sigma$ Models

Certain nonlinear sigma models with fermions suffer from an anomaly similar to the one in non-Abelian gauge theory. We exhibit this anomaly using both perturbative and global methods. The affected theories are ill defined and hence unsuitable for describing low-energy dynamics. They include certain supersymmetric models in four-space dimensions.
Evaluation of Fumonitest Immunoaffinity Columns

Abstract A method for the determination of fumonisins B1 and B2 in corn was developed. The method involves sample extraction with methanol:water (80:20) and the use of a commercially available Fumonitest column for sample cleanup. The capacity, selectivity, column-to-column and lot-to-lot reproducibility of the Fumonitest columns were evaluated. The total capacity of the column was found to be 1.2 μg fumonisin. Both fumonisins B1 and B2 had an equal affinity toward the Fumonitest column, with the sample matrix demonstrating little effect on the column performance. The maximum sample size was 0.5 g for samples containing total fumonisins of less than 2 ppm. After elution from the immunoaffinity column, fumonisins B1 and B2 were reacted with naphthalene-2, 3-dicarboxaldehyde (NDA) to produce a highly fluorescent derivative, 1-cyano-2-alkyl-benz[f]isoindole (CBI). The derivatives were then separated from the sample matrix on a reverse phase C-18 column with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile:water:ace...
Urban-Rural Differences in Motivation to Control Prejudice Toward People With HIV/AIDS: The Impact of Perceived Identifiability in the Community

: Context:HIV/AIDS is occurring with increasing frequency in rural areas of the United States, and people living with HIV/AIDS in rural communities report higher levels of perceived stigma than their more urban counterparts. The extent to which stigmatized individuals perceive stigma could be influenced, in part, by prevailing community attitudes. Differences between rural and more metropolitan community members' attitudes toward people with HIV/AIDS, however, have rarely been examined. Purpose: This study investigated motivation to control prejudice toward people with HIV/AIDS among non-infected residents of metropolitan, micropolitan, and rural areas of rural New England. Methods: A total of 2,444 individuals were identified through a random digit dialing sampling scheme, and completed a telephone interview to determine attitudes and concerns about a variety of health issues. Internal or external motivation to control prejudice was examined using a general linear mixed model approach, with independent variables including age, gender, community size, and perceived indentifiability within one's community. Findings: Results showed that community size, by itself, was not related to motivation to control prejudice. However, there was a significant interaction between community size and community residents' perceptions about the extent to which people in their communities know who they are. Conclusion: Our results indicate that residents of rural areas, in general, may not show a higher level of bias toward people with HIV/AIDS. The interaction between community size and perceived identifiability, however, suggests that motivation to control prejudice, and potentially the subsequent expression of that prejudice, is more complex than originally thought.
The Experiential Account of Aesthetic Value

It is the beginning of a powerful argument for an experiential account of aesthetic value that one must experience an artwork for oneself in order to appreciate its aesthetic value. One can know that some hero is a great man from an accurate description of his actions or characteristics in nonnormative terms; similarly for a great computer or any other machine. But the aesthetic value of artworks is manifest only in experiencing them for oneself. This point has been made many times by many philosophers of art. Typically, they seek an explanation for it in some peculiar logical relation between the nonaesthetic properties of artworks and their aesthetic properties. But the less mysterious explanation is threefold: first and foremost, that the aesthetic value of artworks lies only in the experience of them; second, that the context in which any property of an artwork is experienced can radically alter the experience of it; and third, that different observers, even fully qualified observers, can experience the same objective properties of artworks differently. If the value of artworks lies in the experience of them, and if that experience varies with context and observer, then one must experience artworks in order to appreciate their value. (What may look like the fallacy of affirming the consequent is really an inference to the best explanation.) That the aesthetic value of artworks lies in the
Photonic crystals, present & future

Summary form only given, as follows. Photonic crystals, the electromagnetic analog of semiconductor crystals, have stirred the imagination toward photonic integrated circuits. At the same time, the build-out of the telecommunications infrastructure is creating a demand for large volumes of optical communications components and subsystems. Integration at the tiniest scale of photonic crystals allows the largest number of components to be produced from a single wafer, reducing cost, and allowing considerable optical complexity. There have been a series of practical difficulties standing in the way of building practical microphotonic circuits, that are gradually being solved; including, the input/output coupling efficiency problem, the nanofabrication accuracy problem, the active device issues, electrical modulation schemes, device design software and simulation. Some of these problems are already solved, and we can project solutions to the others over the next few years.