cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mode of action of the dichloroacetamide antidote BAS 145-138 in corn. I: Growth responses and fate of metazachlor

The effect of BAS 145-138 (BAS) on metazachlor injury to corn and on the fate of [14C]metazachlor in corn seedlings was investigated. Corn shoot and root growth were inhibited by metazachlor. The antidote, BAS, increased corn shoot and root tolerance to metazachlor 10.7- and 7.6-fold, respectively. The antidotal activities of BAS and dichlormid were similar. Corn seedlings grown in soil treated with [14C]metazachlor ± BAS were dissected at two growth stages prior to emergence and one growth stage immediately after emergence. Parent [14C]metazachlor was present as <6% of the total radioactivity with an estimated tissue concentration of <1 μM in all tissues except the pericarp. This suggests that metazachlor was metabolized rapidly in both antidoted and control plants and that a very low concentration of metazachlor is required for phytotoxicity. BAS treatment reduced the concentration of parent metazachlor in the developing leaves by 82–84%. BAS treatment had three effects that contributed to the reduced amount of parent [14C]metazachlor in the developing leaves: (i) shoot absorption of [14C]metazachlor was slightly reduced by antidote treatment; (ii) the mobility of 14C was reduced in antidoted seedlings, as indicated by the 63–86% decrease of total 14C reaching the developing leaves; (iii) metabolism of metazachlor in growing tissues may have been stimulated by BAS, as suggested by the lower percentage of 14C present as parent metazachlor. The coleoptile plays a critical role in corn shoot tolerance to metazachlor, since more metazachlor is absorbed through the coleoptile than through the mesocotyl and corn is more sensitive to metazachlor absorbed through the coleoptile than the mesocotyl. Reduced absorption and movement of metazachlor through the coleoptile apparently contribute to antidote activity. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that BAS protects corn from metazachlor injury by reducing levels of parent metazachlor present in sensitive and rapidly growing tissues such as the developing leaves.
Ultrafast Photography With 10.6 μm Radiation

AbstractThe development of fast infrared switches based on reflection from optically inducedcarriers in a semiconductor has provided a new type of shutter for ultrafast photography atmid -infrared wavelengths. Preliminary experiments, in which a germanium reflection switchwas used in conjunction with a pyroelectric vidicon, have permitted nanosecond recording ofimages formed by 10 pm radiation.The extension of ultrafast photographic techniques to mid- infrared wavelengths (X 10 pm) introduces a number of major problems. First, since the response of photocathodes islimited to wavelengths of ul pm or less, there is no possibility to use such devices asgated image converters or electron- optical streak cameras. Therefore in most cases it isnecessary to employ techniques where the infrared radiation can be recorded directly afterit has been gated by an appropriate shutter. This leads to a second source of difficultiessince very few techniques are available for the rapid "gating" of infrared radiation.Highly collimated beams can be electro- optically switched by means of Pockels cell shuttersincorporating single crystals of GaAs or CdTe placed between crossed polarizers and sub-jected to a short high voltage pulse; however, the need for high optical quality, singlecrystals limits the usable apertures of these devices to dimensions of til cm and they aretherefore unsuitable for use in imaging systems of reasonable efficiency. A similarlimitation applies to upconversion techniques in which both gating and recording aresimplified by converting the infrared image to a shorter more readily detected wavelength.The recent development of IR switches based on the reflection of radiation by optically -induced free- carriers in a semiconductor has provided an alternative approach to thefabrication of fast, large aperture, shutters for CO2 laser radiation.
Measuring Prices and Price Competition Online: Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com

Despite the interest in measuring price sensitivity of online consumers, most academic work on Internet commerce is hindered by a lack of data on quantity. In this paper we use publicly available data on the sales ranks of about 20,000 books to derive quantity proxies at the two leading online booksellers. Matching this information to prices, we can directly estimate the elasticities of demand facing both merchants as well as create a price index for online books. The results show significant price sensitivity at both merchants but demand at BarnesandNoble.com is much more price-elastic than is demand at Amazon.com. The data also allow us to estimate the magnitude of bias in the CPI due to the rise of Internet sales.
Fear and Loathing at the U.S. Border

In this paper, we argue that when technology crosses the border in the form of personal electronic devices (PEDs), there is a unique confluence of factors that requires a fresh look at the border search exception. International travel is now commonplace, or at least relatively routine, and personal electronic devices are ubiquitous and often necessary during travel. In this context, combining the Supreme Court’s refusal to question individual officers’ motives for a search with current border search law results in government searches which, we submit, are “unreasonable” under the Fourth Amendment. We demonstrate how the border search exception to the Fourth Amendment has never actually gone through a doctrinal development, and, as such, it is rather thoughtless. We show how the doctrine should appear if developed as an administrative search rather than a sui generis historical exception, and we demonstrate why the doctrine dictates that motive matters, at least when it comes to PEDs. Finally, we suggest that a correct Fourth Amendment analysis would allow a continuance of the suspicionless border searches that everyone undergoes, but that before a person can be targeted for a more intrusive, discretionary secondary search or seizure, agents must have at least reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.
Intelligibility and simulated deaf-like segmental and timing errors

An experiment tested the effect on intelligibility of modifying high-quality synthetic speech in two independent ways, each of which made the speech more like the speech of one particular deaf child. This child's phonology is described and two component errors from his speech pattern are used as examples and tested. The two component errors are (1) consonantal omissions and substitutions and (2) suprasegmental timing distortions. Sentences with and without errors in consonant articulation were synthesized with and without timing distortions. Listeners identified the stimuli resulting from these deaf-like speech components, alone and in combination. Four different indices of intelligibility were extracted from the listeners' responses.
High-level language extensions for user-interface programming

Many user-interface toolkits, screen management facilities and user-interface managements systems (UIMS) have been developed in the last few years for creating user interfaces. These systems, however, normally require the user to learn a new programming language or set of techniques. Extending conventional programming languages has the advantage that the same language can be used for describing both the application and the user interface. In addition, both the application's view of the data and the user's view of the data can be specified by the same type system, in a consistent and elegant way. In this paper, we outline several drawbacks of conventional high-level procedural languages and present extensions to Pascal to facilitate user-interface programming. The goal is to provide a language where the display items, dialogue control rules, application software, concurrent operations, and dynamic program linking can all be easily programmed in the same language, without resorting to an assembler language or another language. The extensions have been used in implementing several microelectronics fabrication systems. Although these are specific applications, the extensions can be helpful in programming textual user interfaces in other application areas, such as process control, manufacturing control and real-time systems.
Dissecting interactions between EB1, microtubules and APC in cortical clusters at the plasma membrane

End-binding protein (EB) 1 binds to the C-terminus of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) protein and to the plus ends of microtubules (MT) and has been implicated in the regulation of APC accumulation in cortical clusters at the tip of extending membranes. We investigated which APC domains are involved in cluster localization and whether binding to EB1 or MTs is essential for APC cluster localization. Armadillo repeats of APC that lack EB1- and MT-binding domains are necessary and sufficient for APC localization in cortical clusters; an APC fragment lacking the armadillo repeats, but containing MT- and EB1-binding domains, does not localize to the cortical clusters but instead co-aligns with MTs throughout the cell. Significantly, analysis of endogenous proteins reveals that EB1 does not accumulate in the APC clusters. However, overexpressed EB1 does accumulate in APC clusters; the APC-binding domain in EB1 is located in the C-terminal region of EB1 between amino acids 134 and 268. Overexpressed APC- or MT-binding domains of EB1 localize to APC cortical clusters and MT, respectively, without affecting APC cluster formation itself. These results show that localization of APC in cortical clusters is different from that of EB1 at MT plus ends and appears to be independent of EB1.
Historical Discourse: The Language of Time, Cause and Evaluation (Caroline Coffin, 2006)

This book is of great value to history teachers and curriculum developers, as it provides general insights as well as specific recommendations and resources for organizing a teaching/learning progr...
Thematic Content and Political Context in Shakespeare's Dramatic Output, with Implications for Authorship and Chronology Controversies

Empirical studies of Shakespeare's plays have usually assumed that the traditional Stratfordian chronology is basically correct. This assumption is cast in doubt by Oxfordians who claim that the plays were authored by Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford. However, prior investigations have shown that Stratfordian chronologies are more strongly supported by stylometric analyses than are Oxfordian chronologies. In this study the two authorship positions are evaluated by examining the correlation between the thematic content of the plays and the political context in which the plays would be written according to rival sets of dates. Stratfordian chronologies, when lagged just two years, yield substantively meaningful associations between thematic content and political context, whereas Oxfordian chronologies yield no relationships, however lagged. Hence, only the Stratfordian results are consistent with previous research indicating that artistic creativity is responsive to conspicuous political events.
An interface for the online visualisation and evaluation of simple textile properties for electronic retailing

This paper describes an interface for the visualisation and evaluation of simple properties of textiles on the web for online shopping. Previous work in this area has shown that a mere image is not sufficient to accurately represent textiles for electronic retailing. The focus of this paper is on the design, implementation and assessment of an interface that allows users to visualise the physical textile properties of elasticity, smoothness, stiffness and thickness, in order to gain insight into whether or not simple visualisations can accurately represent the actual textiles. The approach consisted of four steps: a previsualisation survey (based on physical interaction with the fabrics), textile property visualisation (using the interface), a visualisation survey (based on the interface) and statistical analysis. Mean values were obtained from the two surveys and compared in order to determine whether the visualised properties using the interface accurately represented the actual physical textile properties of the textiles.
Outcomes research: a review.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to review the history of the medical outcomes movement as well as the methodologies used in outcomes research. CONCEPT: Outcomes research refers to a genre of clinical investigation that emphasizes the measurement of patient health outcomes, including the patient's symptoms, functional status, quality of life, satisfaction with treatment, and health care costs. RATIONALE: Outcomes research evolved from studies that demonstrated the presence of wide geographic variations in the practice of medicine and surgery. Such differences in utilization were unaccompanied by any discernible difference in patient outcomes. With escalating health care costs, there has been a growing interest in measuring the outcomes of medical intervention to determine the quality and appropriateness of medical care. DISCUSSION: Outcomes may be measured both directly and indirectly, over differing periods of time, and with varying degrees of objectivity, reliability, and validity. Current research has focused on quality of life issues, which include the extent to which a patient's usual or expected physical, emotional, and social well-being have been affected by a medical condition or treatment. The true value of health care can be determined only by a systematic examination of patient outcomes. To accomplish this goal, methods are required that are relatively unfamiliar to many clinical researchers. Future clinical research should include patient-oriented outcome measures that would otherwise focus solely on physiological or anatomic outcomes. Such information will be essential in determining which medical and surgical treatment strategies should be abandoned and which will gain acceptance in the future.
Integrity versus Expediency for Non-Anthropocentrists

Environmental theorists have often focused on the distinction between anthropocentric and non-anthropocentric arguments for protecting the natural world. However, in ‘Anthropocentric Indirect Argum...
Effective conductivity of dispersions of spheres with a superconducting interface

We consider the problem of exactly determining the effective thermal conductivity, σeff, of a composite material consisting of periodic or random arrays of spheres which possess superconducting interfaces. This requires the solution of the local temperature field in which there is a jump in the normal component of the heat flux across the sphere–matrix interface. The strength of this interface is characterized by a dimensionless parameter C ≥ 0 such that C = 0 corresponds to the usual perfect interface case. An approximate formula for the effective conductivity, σeff, compares favourably with our results for a wide range of sphere volume fractions, phase conductivity ratios, and values of the interfacial strength C .
Atom Transfer Radical Addition Reactions of CCl4, CHCl3, and p-Tosyl Chloride Catalyzed by Cp′Ru(PPh3)(PR3)Cl Complexes

A series of Cp′Ru(PR3)(PPh3)Cl complexes, where Cp′ = Cp*, Dp, Ind, Cp, Tp and PR3 = PTA, PMe3, PPh3, have been used to catalyze the atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) of various chloro substrates (CCl4, CHCl3, and TsCl) to styrene and/or hexene. The complexes Cp*Ru(PTA)(PPh3)Cl, Cp*Ru(PMe3)(PPh3)Cl, DpRu(PMe3)(PPh3)Cl, and TpRu(PMe3)(PPh3)Cl have been synthesized by ligand exchange reactions with Cp′Ru(PPh3)2Cl and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. An alternative synthesis for CpRu(PMe3)(PPh3)Cl and the solid-state structure of the previously reported complex IndRu(PMe3)(PPh3)Cl are also described. Among the ruthenium(II) complexes studied, Cp*Ru(PTA)(PPh3)Cl and Cp*Ru(PMe3)(PPh3)Cl were very active at 60 °C with TOF values of 1060 and 933 h−1, respectively; Cp*Ru(PPh3)2Cl was the most active for the addition of CCl4 to styrene with a TOF >960 h−1 at room temperature. Total turnovers (TTO) in excess of 80 000 for the addition of CCl4 to hexene were obtained for the Cp* compl...
Measurement Error Models

(2000). Measurement Error Models. Journal of the American Statistical Association: Vol. 95, No. 452, pp. 1353-1358.
Morphology of Secondary Wall Fibrils in Cotton

The secondary wall of cotton fiber contains well aligned helical macrofibrils of about 1000 A diameter, changing sign in irregular intervals. The sign reversals are in some respect cross sections of enhanced mechanical strength, particularly in respect to swelling. The macrofibrils are composed of a great many microfibrils of varying width, which, as a rule, seem to be narrow, ribbon-like lamellae consisting of one single layer of elementary fibrils. The former have lateral dimensions of about 200 A, the latter of about 50 A, as may be derived from electron micrographs of stained samples. The mechan ical deformation of such a system of helices involves a relatively large amount of sliding motion of every single helix down to the smallest independent element which may be the microfibril or some larger agglomerate, e.g., the macrofibril. Surface forces between adjacent helices reduce the capability for sliding and, therefore, enhance the rigidity, elastic mod ulus, shape retention, and brittleness of the co...
Perception of injustice as a predictor of support for workplace aggression.

In order to determine the relationship between perceptions of injustice and support for workplace aggression, 139 subjects were presented with four scenarios representing different levels and types of injustice. Subjects then responded to an eight-item aggression scale. Support for aggressive behavior across the scenarios generally corresponded to the amount and type of perceived injustice; a procedural injustice scenario was perceived as the most unjust and led to the most support for aggression. Although the interpersonal and distributive injustice scenarios were seen as virtually identical in terms of injustice, there was significantly more support for aggression with interpersonal injustice. The strongest predictor of support for aggression in the justice scenarios, however, was simply the degree of support for aggression in a neutral, or control, scenario. It is suggested that employers need to be concerned both about fair and courteous relations with employees and also with identifying generally aggressive employees.
Representations of sibling relationships in young children’s literature

Abstract Children’s conceptions of what sibling relationships can be like may be influenced, in part, by the literature they read. This study examined the degree to which positive and negative dimensions of sibling relationships were portrayed in a sample of children’s books (n = 261). We also investigated how mothers and fathers were depicted when responding to sibling conflict. Results indicated that although children’s books often represent warmth and involvement between siblings, they rarely described children engaging in conflict management or relational maintenance activities. Parents were predominantly portrayed as responding to children’s conflict using controlling methods rather than techniques that might foster negotiation and problem solving. Characters who were middle children are under-represented in children’s literature. Results are discussed in terms of how educators can select, use, and adapt books in their efforts to help strengthen children’s sibling relationships.
Schatzki's Ring in Angelman Syndrome: A Diagnostic Dilemma in Neurodevelopmentally Disabled Patients.

Angelman Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental condition with a characteristic phenotype that includes epilepsy and lack of communication. We describe its first reported association with Schatzki's ring that presented as a life-long history of intermittent retching. Because of associated cognitive dysfunction, careful diagnostic consideration is required to detect this underlying condition. Keywords Schatzki's ring; Angelman Syndrome; Esophageal "B" ring; Barium esophagogram; Neurodevelopmental delay; Retching
Differential arginylation of actin isoforms: the mystery of the actin N-terminus

Actin is one of the most abundant, essential and well studied intracellular proteins, yet its regulation in vivo is still not completely understood. One of the mysteries around actin concerns the existence of multiple actin isoforms that are extremely similar to each other except for their N-termini but have been shown in multiple studies to preferentially incorporate into different actin networks and are suggested to have different roles in vivo . The mechanisms of this actin isoform segregation are unknown. My colleagues and I recently showed that β but not γ actin in cultured fibroblasts undergoes N-terminal arginylation, which regulates actin polymerization and lamella formation in motile cells. Here, I propose that arginylation could be a general mechanism that regulates actin isoform segregation in vivo and participates in the formation of loose β-actin network at the leading edge of the cell.
Polarization Studies in the Vacuum Ultraviolet

A method is presented, well suited to the ultraviolet region, for determining the degree of polarization produced by a polarizer at a given wavelength and for determining the polarization introduced by a grating monochromator. An analysis is made of the degree of polarization required by a polarizer for use in optical studies to determine, for example, the reflectance of a surface for light of parallel or perpendicular polarization. Data are given in the spectral region 500 to 1300 A for gold and silver reflection-type polarizers and for a grating used in the Seya geometry.
The Sexual and Racial Contradictions of Neoliberalism

Neoliberalism has been defined as the shift back to a free market approach to economic governance, championed most famously by Milton Freeman and the “Chicago School” of economics in the 1970s, a s...
Pulsar polarization measurements and the nonsymmetric gravitational theory

Because of the breakdown of the Einstein equivalence principle in the nonsymmetric gravitational theory (NGT) of Moffat, orthogonally polarized electromagnetic waves can propagate at different velocities in a gravitational field. Moffat has proposed that galactic dark matter, in the form of cosmions, may act as a significant source of gravity in the NGT. We discuss how observations of the highly polarized radiation from distant pulsars could provide significant limits on the strength of the coupling of cosmions in the NGT.
MOCVD-grown, 1.3 μm InGaAsN multiple quantum well lasers incorporating GaAsP strain-compensation layers

are being developed as laser active regions. By introducing GaAsP layers into the active region for strain-compensation, gain can be increased using multiple InGaAsN quantum wells. In this work, we report the first strain-compensated, 1 .3 jim InGaAsN MQW lasers. Our devices were grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition.Lasers with InGaAsN quantum well active regions are proving superior to lasers constructed with competing active regionmaterials. Under pulsed operation, our 1.3 im InGaAsN lasers displayed negligible blue-shift from the low-injection LEDemission, and state-of-the-art characteristic temperature (1 59
Communication and colorectal cancer screening among the uninsured: data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (United States)

Colorectal cancer screening allows for both prevention and early detection of the disease, with early detection often resulting in improved prognosis. Too few Americans over 50 are screened for colorectal cancer, but among certain subpopulations screening rates are particularly low for various reasons. We examined the role of communication factors and insurance, with a specific focus on the uninsured to examine disparities in colorectal cancer screening. We used Health Information National Trends Survey data to examine: disparities in colorectal cancer screening, by calculating proportions of subpopulations screened; and the association between communication and screening among the uninsured, by performing chi-square tests and simple logistic regression to examine the potential factors associated with screening. The uninsured were 64% less likely to be screened than the insured. Provider recommendation was the only significant communication measure, with the uninsured lacking a recommendation 98.5% less likely to be screened than those with one. These data suggest expansion of programs of screening among the uninsured and more aggressive communication campaigns to promote the awareness and provider recommendation of screening as possible ways to increase screening and reduce mortality of colorectal cancer.
The role of endoscopic ultrasound in inflammatory bowel disease

Ultrasonography has been applied to the diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease for over 20 years. The combination of endoscopy with ultrasound has resulted in the application of intraluminal sonographic imaging to multiple diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease. Initial efforts were focused on the sonographic assessment of disease severity as based on bowel wall thickness, but this has been inconsistently demonstrated. Furthermore, disease severity is a clinical assessment that is based on both clinical and imaging studies. Recognizing that Crohn's disease tends to be transmural and ulcerative colitis a superficial mucosal inflammatory process, hopes were raised that endosonography would be effective in discriminating cases of otherwise indeterminate colitis. Efforts to demonstrate this, however, have been largely disappointing, and EUS plays a limited role in discriminating ulcerative colitis from Crohn's disease. On a more positive note, EUS evaluation of perirectal and perianal complications of Crohn's disease has been demonstrated to be superior to fistulography, CT, and equal to or superior to MRI. Because accurate anatomic information is required to guide surgical therapy of these lesions, EUS has the potential to emerge as a powerful imaging tool in the management of perianorectal Crohn's disease.
HygeiaTel: an intelligent telemedicine system with cognitive support

The increasing health care cost and the scarcity of healthcare workers warrant development of a new complementary healthcare system. The web that has brought scalability and cost reduction in other fields can do the same in healthcare. A web based telemedicine system with device integration for vitals measurement and with context and cognitive support can provide an immersive experience of a virtual health clinic. We have built such a system and the system will be demonstrated at the conference. Deployment of this system can provide, anywhere, anytime healthcare that can complement the existing healthcare system.
The oscillatory potentials of the dark-adapted electroretinogram in retinopathy of prematurity.

Purpose To study the development of the electroretinographic (ERG) oscillatory potentials (OPs) in two rat models of ROP and in human subjects with a history of ROP.
Heterogeneity of Na+-independent 2-aminobicyclo-(2,2,1)-heptane-2-carboxylic acid and L-leucine transport in isolated rat hepatocytes in primary culture.

Abstract Kinetic heterogeneity of saturable Na + -independent transport of both leucine and 2-aminobicyclo-(2,2,1)-heptane-2-carboxylic acid uptake by primary cultures of isolated rat hepatocytes was demonstrated. Such heterogeneity was not evident in the transformed hepatic cell line, HTC. One of the two components of Na + -independent transport in normal hepatocytes increased in activity with increasing time in primary culture, whereas the second component decreased in activity during the same time period. On the basis of kinetic and inhibition analysis the two components have tentatively been identified as Systems L and T . The increase in System T activity during the initial days of primary cultures of hepatocytes which is dependent on de novo synthesis of both RNA and protein, represents one of the first demonstrations of regulation for a Na + -independent amino acid transport system.
High-Field Magnetoresistance of Ordered Beta Brass

The magnetoresistance of several single-crystal specimens of ordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$-brass has been investigated in fields up to 150 kG. The purity of the samples is sufficiently high ($\frac{{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{295}}{{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{4.2}}\ensuremath{\simeq}400$) that the high-field condition is satisfied. The results indicate that ordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$-brass is an uncompensated metal and that its Fermi surface is multiply connected. Strong open orbits were observed when the field was in {110} or {100} planes, and this behavior is compatible with the Fermi-surface model predicted by augmented-plane-wave and Green's-function energy-band calculations. Evidence for the existence of higher-order open orbits and two-dimensional regions of open orbits is presented. There are certain aspects of the data which cannot be explained in terms of the theoretical model unless (a) one of the predicted open orbits is eliminated either by magnetic breakdown or by changing some of the model's dimensions, and (b) other open orbits due to magnetic breakdown are taken into account. Various possibilities for open orbits due to magnetic breakdown are considered and their implications are compared with the observed behavior.
Rolling Contact Testing of Vapor Phase Lubricants—Part III: Surface Analysis©

Infrared microscopy (μ-FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize bearing surfaces lubricated from the vapor phase. Results are presented for surface films generated with a tertiary-butyl phenyl phosphate (TBPP) and a polyphenylether (5P4E). Infrared bands consistent with inorganic poly-phosphates and phosphites were detected in deposition films generated with the TBPP lubricant. Raman shifts consistent with graphite of short range order were detected in films deposited by both lubricants. However, specimens lubricated by the 5P4E had several Raman shifts consistent with Fe2O3 and Fe3O4. Iron oxides were not detected in deposition films generated with the TBPP lubricant. AES depth profiles indicate a predominant mixture of iron and carbon in the TBPP deposition film; whereas, the 5P4E film predominately consists of iron and oxygen. Localized corrosion pitting generated with the TBPP lub...
Tactical mobile robot mission specification and execution

Abstract Georgia Tech, as part of DARPA's Tactical Mobile Robotics (TMR) Program, is developing a widerange of mission specification capabilities for the urban warfighter. These include the development of arange of easily configurable mission-specific robot behaviors suitable for various battlefield and special forces scenarios; communications planning and configuration capabilities for small teams of robotsacting in a coordinated manner; interactive graphical visual programming environments for missionspecification; and real-time analysis tools and methods for mission execution verification. This paperprovides an overview of the approach being taken by the Georgia Tech/Honeywell team and presentsa range of preliminary results for a variety of missions in both simulation and on actual robots. 1. Introduction and Overview As part of DARPA's Tactical Mobile Robotics Program, Georgia Tech is providing certain basic capabilities suitable for robotic missions in urban settings: flexible reactive behaviors suitable for specific
Pimobendan in Heart Failure Therapy – A Silver Bullet?

Pimobendan is a novel agent with properties that are highly desirable in the clinical management of congestive heart failure (CHF) secondary to both dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and chronic degenerative valvular disease in dogs. Review of available data suggests that pimobendan is safe, well tolerated, and leads to enhanced quality of life in dogs with CHF secondary to DCM or chronic valvular disease when used in combination with furosemide or other conventional therapies (e.g., angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, digoxin). Pimobendan leads to a reduction in mortality from CHF associated with DCM, and ongoing studies are evaluating its effects on mortality associated with chronic valvular disease.
Network problem-determination aids in microprocessor-based modems

Recent significant developments in large-scale integration (LSI) and in digital signal-processing techniques have combined to provide the base for a new generation of modems. LSI microprocessors now have the characteristics and performance to provide superior modem function as well as a design base for the addition of new function. The extendability afforded by a microprocessor-based modem design is being increasingly used to provide advanced communications network management functions. This paper describes the design objectives, implementation decisions, and design rationale for implementing these characteristics in the IBM 3863, 3864, and 3865 family of data modems. This network management function, which has been integrated into IBM Communications Network Management (CNM) offerings for IBM's Systems Network Architecture user networks, extends the problem-determination capability to cover the modems and communications lines. Support for this new function has been integrated into the 3705 ACF/NCP/VS control program and the System/370 NPDA program product.
Validation plan for the German CAMAELEON model

Engineers and scientists at the US Army's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) are in the process of evaluating the German CAMAELEON model, a signature evaluation model that was created for use in designing and evaluating camouflage in the visible spectrum and is based on computational vision methodologies. Verification and preliminary validation have been very positive. For this reason, NVESD has planned and is currently in the early execution phase of a more elaborate validation effort using data from an Army field exercise known as DISSTAF-II. The field exercise involved tank gunners, using the currently fielded M1 Abrams tank sights to search for, to target, and to `fire on' (i.e. to pull the trigger to mark target location) a variety of foreign and domestic vehicles in realistic scenarios. Data from this field exercise will be combined with results of a laboratory measurement of perceptual target detectabilities. The purpose of the laboratory measurement is to separate modeled effects from unmodeled effects in the field data. In the laboratory, observers will be performing a task as similar as possible to that modeled by CAMAELEON. An important feature of this data is that the observers will know where the target is located and will rate the detectability of the targets in a paired comparison experiment utilizing the X-based perceptual experiment testbed developed at the University of Tennessee. For the laboratory measurement the subjects will view exactly the same images as those to be analyzed by CAMAELEON. Three correlations that will be found are expected to be especially important. The correlation between perceptual detectability and model predictions will show the accuracy with which the model predicts human performance of the modeled task (rating target detectabilities). The correlation between laboratory and field data will show how well perceived detectability predicts tank gunner target detection in a realistic scenario. Finally, the correlation between model predictions and detection probabilities will show the extent to which the model can actually predict human field performance.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Evaluation of structure fluctuation along bending-loss-insensitive hole-assisted fibres by using bi-directional OTDR measurement

A technique to evaluate structural fluctuation along bending-loss-insensitive hole-assisted fibres by using bi-directional OTDR measurement is proposed. This technique can provide information on the bending-loss distribution along a bending-loss-insensitive hole-assisted fibre.
Experimental investigation of cryogenic oscillating heat pipes

A novel cryogenic heat pipe, oscillating heat pipe (OHP), which consists of an 4 × 18.5 cm evaporator, a 6 × 18.5 cm condenser, and 10 cm length of adiabatic section, has been developed and experimental characterization conducted. Experimental results show that the maximum heat transport capability of the OHP reached 380W with average temperature difference of 49 °C between the evaporator and condenser when the cryogenic OHP was charged with liquid nitrogen at 48% (v/v) and operated in a horizontal direction. The thermal resistance decreased from 0.256 to 0.112 while the heat load increased from 22.5 to 321.8 W. When the OHP was operated at a steady state and an incremental heat load was added to it, the OHP operation changed from a steady state to an unsteady state until a new steady state was reached. This process can be divided into three regions: (I) unsteady state; (II) transient state; and (III) new steady state. In the steady state, the amplitude of temperature change in the evaporator is smaller than that of the condenser while the temperature response keeps the same frequency both in the evaporator and the condenser. The experimental results also showed that the amplitude of temperature difference between the evaporator and the condenser decreased when the heat load increased.
Lycopene reduces azoxymethane-induced colon tumors in Fisher 344 rats

Abstract Epidemiologic studies have shown an inverse correlation between dietary intake of lycopene and the incidence of colon cancer. This study was conducted to determine (1) the effects of dietary lycopene (0, 200, and 400 ppm) and its interactions with fat levels (7% and 14% fat) on azoxymethane-induced colon tumors in Fisher 344 male weanling rats and (2) to the effect of dietary lycopene (400 ppm/7% fat and 400 ppm/14% fat) on tumor initiation and promotion stages in the colon. Dietary lycopene showed an effect in reducing the total number of tumors as well as tumor size in rats. Glutathione S -transferases activity was significantly higher ( P
Bicyclist deaths and fatality risk patterns

While there are almost 1,000 bicyclist deaths in the United States every year, there has been little formal analysis of the fatal risk patterns of bicyclists. In large part, this is because there has been little information available on riding exposure. The purpose of this article is to determine and quantify the relative risks of death for bicyclists according to age, gender, and daylight conditions. Relative risks are estimated by comparing data on the characteristics of fatally injured bicyclists with estimates of riding exposure from a recent national survey of bicyclists in the United States. The results suggest substantially higher fatality risks for males, for bicyclists over the age of 44, and for bicyclists who ride after dark. Discussion of the results includes implications regarding differences in the fatal and nonfatal injury risks associated with bicycle use.
Soviet methodology for the valuation of natural resources

Abstract The article discusses recent changes in the methodology for valuing natural-resource products and resource deposits in the Soviet Union and discusses the probable efficiency consequences of the changes. It concludes that improved methods for monitoring and policing stock draw-down and the imposition of efficiency rents are equally important as potential sources of improved use of natural-resource stocks.
An experimental study of the effects of the upper boundary condition on the thermal convection in a rotating, differentially heated cylindrical annulus of water

Abstract The effects of the upper boundary condition on the regime diagram and certain characteristics of the convection within a rotating, differentially heated cylindrical anulus of water were studied in the laboratory. It was found that the regime diagram was not substantially affected by the upper boundary condition. However, the thermal amplitude of the baroclinic waves, as a function of parameter space, and, as expected from previous work, the angular drift velocity of those waves were found to be strongly affected by the upper boundary condition. When the upper surface was free, the amplitude changes were explosive and highly non-linear (as discovered earlier by Kaiser, 1970). When the upper surface was rigid, they were smooth and quite linear. The baroclinic wave patterns drifted round the annulus at rates which were in direct response to the imposed “thermal wind”. However, (as previously observed by Koschmieder, 1972), when the upper surface was rigid they drifted approximately ten times more sl...
A novel method for liberating viral nucleic acid for assay of water samples with cDNA probes

Rapid and sensitive methods are needed for the detection of enteric viruses to ensure proper drinking water quality. Gene probes have been shown to be useful for this purpose. Previously, samples to be assayed were treated with a series of phenol-chloroform extractions to release the viral nucleic acid. We have developed a more rapid procedure for liberating or exposing the genome of poliovirus for probing. In this study, a poliovirus model was used to test the ability of heat (65 degrees C for 30 min) for release or exposure of viral nucleic acid. Several different RNase inhibitors were tested for their ability to prevent viral RNA degradation. A comparison of the two methods indicates phenol-chloroform extraction is not necessary before probing. In addition to saving 2-4 h of time, maximum sensitivity levels were consistently obtained using this novel procedure.
Disclosure and Truth in Physician–Patient Communication An Exploratory Analysis in Argentina, Brazil, India and the United States:

This article is the result of exploratory research on the communication/relationship between physicians and patients conducted in Argentina, Brazil, India and the United States. The study sheds lig...
MITOCHONDRIAL LEADER SEQUENCES : STRUCTURAL SIMILARITIES AND SEQUENCE DIFFERENCES

While having essentially no amino acid sequence homology, the mitochondrial leader sequences of different pre-proteins carry out the same function of targeting the protein to mitochondria. Among the common attributes that have been noted for leader sequences are a net positive charge and the ability to form amphiphilic α-helices. The aim of the research described here was to determine the relative importance of these two attributes in the leader sequence of rat liver mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase. Through site-directed mutagenesis, arginine residues were systematically replaced by glutamine. It was found that individual arginines could be replaced without loss of import competence, so the total charge of the leader sequence was not required for the pre-protein to be imported. However, when two arginines were replaced simultaneously, especially Arg3 and Arg10, the pre-protein lost the ability to be imported. This ability was restored by modifying the leader sequence to increase dramatically its helix-forming potential. This leader sequence did not contain a positive-charged side-chain until Arg11. Therefore, it has been shown that positive charge is not required in the first ten residues provided the sequence could form a relatively more stable α-helix. The ability to form an amphiphilic α-helix remains the essential factor in determining whether or not a leader sequence can carry out its import function. J. Exp. Zool. 282:280–283, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
SU-D-BRE-04: Evaluating the Dose Accuracy of a 2D Ion Chamber Array in High Dose Rate Pencil Beam Scanning Proton Beam

Purpose: To evaluate the absolute dose accuracy of the PTW Octavius 729 XDR 2D ion chamber array at a high dose rate pencil beam scanning proton therapy facility. Methods: A set of 18 plans were created in our treatment planning system, each of which comprising a unique combination of field sizes (FS), length of spread out of Bragg peaks (SOBP) and depths. The parameters used were: FS of 5×5cm2, 10×10cm2 and 15×15cm2; flat SOBP of 5cm and 10cm; and isocenter depths of 10cm, 15cm and 20cm, which coincides with the center of the SOBP. The 2D array detector was positioned at the machine isocenter and the appropriate amount of solid water was used to match the planned depths of 10, 15 and 20 cm water equivalent depth. Subsequently, we measured the absolute dose at isocenter using a CC04 ion chamber in a 1D water tank. Both 2D array and CC04 were previously cross calibrated. We also collected the MU rates used by our proton machine from the log files. Results: The relative differences between the CC04 and the 2D array can be summarized into two groups, one with 5 cm SOBP and another with 10 cm SOBP. Plotting these datasets against FS shows that the 2D array response for high dose rate fields (FS of 5×5cm2 and 5cm SOBP) can be up to 2% lower. Similarly, plotting them against isocenter depths reveals the detector's response can be up to 2% lower for higher energy beams (about 200MeV nominal). The MU rate found in the machine log files for 5cm SOBP's were as high as twice the MU rate for the 10cm SOBP. Conclusion: The 2D array dose response showed a dose rate effect in scanning pencil beam delivery, which needs to be corrected to achieve a better dose accuracy.
Curvularia keratomycosis in a dog

A 10-year-old, spayed female Bichon Frise was referred to the Veterinary Medical Center of the University of Florida with a 6-week history of blepharospasm and a nonhealing ulcer of the left eye. Ophthalmic examination revealed a 3-4 mm diameter corneal ulcer with faint edema at the lesion edge, and a raised grayish area on the paraxial cornea near the 2 o'clock position. Cytological testing revealed fungal hyphae and extracellular cocci. Culture of the lesion found heavy growth of Enterococcus faecalis and Curvularia spp. Treatment with a combination of topical antibiotics (polymyxin B, sulfate/trimetoprim, and 10% sulfacetamide sodium), 1% miconazole, autologous serum, and 5% hypertonic saline was instituted. After 8 days of medical therapy, an improvement of clinical signs was noted, and 15 days after initiation of treatment, the ulcer was healed with minimal corneal scarring.
Secondary nucleation wears the BRICHOS in this family

A chaperone segment provides powerful evidence for the molecular mechanism underlying Alzheimer's disease.
Short-Chain Branching Structures in Ethylene Copolymers Prepared by High-Pressure Free-Radical Polymerization: An NMR Analysis

It is well-known that short-chain branching (SCB) reactions (intramolecular H-abstraction) play an important role in determining the properties of ethylene homopolymers produced under high pressure by free-radical polymerization. There is little information, however, regarding SCB mechanisms that occur during the synthesis of ethylene copolymers under similar reaction conditions. This work describes SCB structures for a wide range of ethylene copolymers of varying composition (ethylene with n-butyl acrylate (nBA), methyl acrylate (MA), vinyl acetate (VAc), n-butyl methacrylate (nBMA), acrylic acid (AA), and methacrylic acid (MAA)), as determined by proton, 13C, and 2D NMR techniques. Close examination of the resonances reveals that for many (if not all) of these copolymers, a significant fraction of the SCBs contain comonomer as a result of CH2-radical to CH2 backbiting around a comonomer unit. In addition, SCBs are formed not only by hydrogen abstraction from CH2 polyethylene units but also by abstractio...
The 25 MV tandem accelerator at oak ridge

A new heavy-ion accelerator facility is under construction at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. A brief description of the scope and status of this project is presented with emphasis on the first operational experience with the 25 MV tandem accelerator.