cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interpretation of the 21-ns Isomer in 190Hg as (vi13/2)2 from a g-Factor Measurement

A 21-ns isomer in 190Hg has earlier been interpreted as the 10+ member of the (h11/2)2n 10 configuration. The g-factor of the isomer is measured by means of the spin rotation method and is found to be -0.21 ± 0.02. This determines the configuration of the isomer as (i13/2)2n. The well-known properties of levels within a (j)2n configuration then suggests that the Isomerism is due to a (i13/2)2n 12+ level that exists very close to the 10+ state, with the 12+ to 10+ transition so low in energy that it has not yet been observed.
Dissociative Identity Disorder: The Relevance of Behavior Analysis

Behavior analytic accounts of Dissociative Identity Disorder, formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder, are rarely presented in detail. This lack of depth may be due to misunderstanding the relevance of the behavior analytic position on personality, abnormality, and related issues. An argument is made here that a behavioral analysis of Dissociative Identity Disorder demystifies these behaviors and that behavior analysts need to communicate to a wider audience by addressing more phenomena of a clinical and popular interest.
The effects of smooth muscle caldesmon on actin filament motility.

Abstract The movement of reconstituted thin filaments over an immobilized surface of thiophosphorylated smooth muscle myosin was examined using an in vitro motility assay. Reconstituted thin filaments contained actin, tropomyosin, and either purified chicken gizzard caldesmon or the purified COOH-terminal actin-binding fragment of caldesmon. Control actin-tropomyosin filaments moved at a velocity of 2.3 +/- 0.5 microns/s. Neither intact caldesmon nor the COOH-terminal fragment, when maintained in the monomeric form by treatment with 10 mM dithiothreitol, had any effect on filament velocity; and yet both were potent inhibitors of actin-activated myosin ATPase activity, indicating that caldesmon primarily inhibits myosin binding as reported by Chalovich et al. (Chalovich, J. M., Hemric, M. E., and Velaz, L. (1990) Ann. N. Y. Acad. Sci. 599, 85-99). Inhibition of filament motion was, however, observed under conditions where cross-linking of caldesmon via disulfide bridges was present. To determine if monomeric caldesmon could "tether" actin filaments to the myosin surface by forming an actin-caldesmon-myosin complex as suggested by Chalovich et al., we looked for caldesmon-dependent filament binding and motility under conditions (80 mM KCl) where filament binding to myosin is weak and motility is not normally seen. At caldesmon concentrations > or = 0.26 microM, actin filament binding was increased and filament motion (2.6 +/- 0.6 microns/s) was observed. The enhanced motility seen with intact caldesmon was not observed with the addition of up to 26 microM COOH-terminal fragment. Moreover, a molar excess of the COOH-terminal fragment competitively reversed the enhanced binding seen with intact caldesmon. These results show that tethering of actin filaments to myosin by the formation of an actin-caldesmon-myosin complex enhanced productive acto-myosin interaction without placing a significant mechanical load on the moving filaments.
Inverse Scattering Transform, KdV, and Solitons

In this review paper, the Korteweg-de Vries equation (KdV) is considered, and it is derived by using the Lax method and the AKNS method. An outline of the inverse scattering problem and of its solution is presented for the associated Schrodinger equation on the line. The inverse scattering transform is described in order to solve the initial-value problem for the KdV, and the time evolution of the corresponding scattering data is obtained. Soliton solutions to the KdV are derived in several ways.
SpecCharts : A Language for System Level Synthesis

Abstract To convert a system specification to a hardware implementation, several synthesis tasks may be required prior to performing traditional high-level synthesis tasks. We discuss these system level synthesis tasks, along with the unique requirements they place on a specification language. Since no current language meets these requirements, the SpecCharts language was created. It is essentially a combination of hierarchical/concurrent state diagrams and HDL constructs. A new, general communication mechanism is introduced, which encompasses most previous attempts. Other constructs are discussed, which attempt to ease the conversion from system conceptualization to system specification, and also aid synthesis.
Activation in Striated Muscle

The sections in this article are: 1 Structure of Striated Muscle 1.1 Contractile Mechanism 1.2 Internal Membrane System 1.3 Comparative Anatomy of Internal Membrane System 2 Resting Electrical Properties of Skeletal Muscle 2.1 Ionic Permeability 2.2 Resting Electrical Properties of Internal Membrane System 2.3 Detubulated Muscle 3 Excitation in Skeletal Muscle 3.1 Ionic Basis of Action Potential 3.2 Inward Spread of Activation 3.3 T-system Conductance Changes in Frog Twitch Fibers 4 Excitation-Contraction Coupling in Skeletal Muscle 4.1 Calcium Activation of Contractile Mechanism 4.2 Calcium Transport and Storage in SR 4.3 Mechanism of Calcium Release 4.4 Role of SR-T Junction in E-C Coupling 4.5 Membrane Potential and Contractile Activation 4.6 Time Course of Calcium Release: Calcium Transient 4.7 Contractile Activation Without Membrane Depolarization 4.8 Electrical Events Associated with Activation 4.9 Role of Extracellular Calcium in Contractile Activation 4.10 Calcium-Sodium Exchange 4.11 Pharmacological Alterations of E-C Coupling 5 Cellular Organization of Cardiac Muscle 6 Resting Electrical Properties of Cardiac Muscle 6.1 Ionic Permeability 6.2 Membrane Capacity and Resistance 7 Action Potential in Mammalian Cardiac Muscle 7.1 Ionic Basis of Action Potential 8 Voltage-Clamp Studies of Mammalian Cardiac Muscle 8.1 Purkinje Fiber Preparation 8.2 Outward Currents in Purkinje Cells 8.3 Inward Currents in Purkinje Cells 8.4 Ventricular Myocardial Preparations 8.5 Ionic Currents in Myocardial Preparations 8.6 Ionic Basis of Plateau Potential - Summary 9 Action Potential in Frog Myocardial Cells 10 Voltage-Clamp Studies of Frog Cardiac Muscle 10.1 Frog Myocardial Preparations 10.2 Ionic Currents in Frog Myocardium 11 E-C Coupling in Cardiac Muscle 11.1 Calcium Influx and Alterations in SR Calcium Stores 11.2 Calcium Influx and Contractile Activation
Cutting Edge: A Role for the Adaptor Protein LAT in Human NK Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity

Stimulation of NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity involves the coupling of proximal Src and Syk family protein tyrosine kinases to downstream effectors. However, the mechanisms linking these second messenger pathways are incompletely understood. Here, we describe a key role for the LAT (p36) adaptor protein in human NK cell activation. LAT is tyrosine phosphorylated upon stimulation of NK cells through FcgammaRIII receptors and following direct contact with NK-sensitive target cells. This NK stimulation induces the association of LAT with several phosphotyrosine-containing proteins. In addition to the biochemical evidence showing LAT involvement in NK cell activation, a genetic model shows that LAT is required for FcR-dependent phosphorylation of phospholipase C-gamma. Furthermore, overexpression of LAT in NK cells leads to increased Ab-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and "natural cytotoxicity," thus demonstrating a functional role for LAT in NK cells. These data suggest that LAT is an important adaptor protein for the regulation of human NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
Africa and Africans in the making of the Atlantic world, 1400–1800: African cultural groups in the Atlantic world

Clearly the condition of slavery, however bad it was, was not sufficiently bad to prevent the development of a reasonably self-sustaining slave community. This community, though often demographically unbalanced, nevertheless managed to create a Creole generation and thus had the potential to maintain and transmit its own culture. But what type of culture developed among the slave societies of the Atlantic basin? Historians have traditionally been divided on this issue, some arguing that the slaves maintained an African culture and that African influence was significant in the resulting Afro-Atlantic culture, others maintaining that the cultural disorganization of slave society made them much more dependent upon the culture of the Europeans or Euro-Americans. Modern research has dispensed with the original dichotomous positions of the 1940s. Current thinking, while hardly reaching a consensus, can be well represented by the work of Mintz and Price, anthropologists who have sought to understand the dynamics of the formation of Afro- American, and specifically Afro-Caribbean, culture. They begin by arguing that the conditions of the slave trade and slavery prevented the direct transmission of African culture to the Americas. In the first case, African culture was not homogeneous enough to constitute a single cultural block; instead, dozens, if not more, independent cultures were involved (Map 5). Second, the slave trade tended to randomize slaves, grouping those of disparate cultures together, unlike European migration, which tended to occur in blocks of people from the same area traveling and settling in the Americas together.
Near-Field Scanning Optical Microscopy for High-Resolution Membrane Studies

The desire to directly probe biological structures on the length scales that they exist has driven the steady development of various high-resolution microscopy techniques. Among these, optical microscopy and, in particular, fluorescence-based approaches continue to occupy dominant roles in biological studies given their favorable attributes. Fluorescence microscopy is both sensitive and specific, is generally noninvasive toward biological samples, has excellent temporal resolution for dynamic studies, and is relatively inexpensive. Light-based microscopies can also exploit a myriad of contrast mechanisms based on spectroscopic signatures, energy transfer, polarization, and lifetimes to further enhance the specificity or information content of a measurement. Historically, however, spatial resolution has been limited to approximately half the wavelength due to the diffraction of light. Near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) is one of several optical approaches currently being developed that combines the favorable attributes of fluorescence microscopy with superior spatial resolution. NSOM is particularly well suited for studies of both model and biological membranes and application to these systems is discussed.
Natural Variation in plep-1 Causes Male-Male Copulatory Behavior in C. elegans

In sexual species, gametes have to find and recognize one another. Signaling is thus central to sexual reproduction and involves a rapidly evolving interplay of shared and divergent interests [1-4]. Among Caenorhabditis nematodes, three species have evolved self-fertilization, changing the balance of intersexual relations [5]. Males in these androdioecious species are rare, and the evolutionary interests of hermaphrodites dominate. Signaling has shifted accordingly, with females losing behavioral responses to males [6, 7] and males losing competitive abilities [8, 9]. Males in these species also show variable same-sex and autocopulatory mating behaviors [6, 10]. These behaviors could have evolved by relaxed selection on male function, accumulation of sexually antagonistic alleles that benefit hermaphrodites and harm males [5, 11], or neither of these, because androdioecy also reduces the ability of populations to respond to selection [12-14]. We have identified the genetic cause of a male-male mating behavior exhibited by geographically dispersed C. elegans isolates, wherein males mate with and deposit copulatory plugs on one another's excretory pores. We find a single locus of major effect that is explained by segregation of a loss-of-function mutation in an uncharacterized gene, plep-1, expressed in the excretory cell in both sexes. Males homozygous for the plep-1 mutation have excretory pores that are attractive or receptive to copulatory behavior of other males. Excretory pore plugs are injurious and hermaphrodite activity is compromised in plep-1 mutants, so the allele might be unconditionally deleterious, persisting in the population because the species' androdioecious mating system limits the reach of selection.
MasterMind©: a predictor of computer programming aptitude

For two semesters, the authors have tested CS1 introductory students on their ability to play the MasterMind© game at the beginning of the semester and compared those scores with in class programming test scores. The resulting correlations suggest that this game can be used as part of a computer programming aptitude test. This aptitude test could be used to advise potential students or employees about their probable success as programmers. Our survey of the literature yielded many programming aptitude tests with correlations lower than ours of 0.6; we are unique in using a game as an aptitude test.
Social Responsibility among Low-Income Youth in Physical Activity-Based Positive Youth Development Programs: Scale Development and Associations with Social Relationships

Relationships with peers and adults are expected to foster social responsibility in physical activity-based positive youth development programs. Low-income youth (N = 479) were surveyed pre- and post-program.Psychometric properties of a new social responsibility scale were supported. Belonging predicted changes in social responsibility, and leader emotional support moderated the autonomy support- and belonging-social responsibility associations. Those with higher leader emotional support had a stronger positive association between autonomy support and social responsibility. Those with lower leader emotional support had a stronger positive association between belonging and social responsibility. Positive social relationships with peers and staff may facilitate social responsibility.
Dynamics and morphology of brittle cracks: A molecular-dynamics study of silicon nitride.

Crack propagation in amorphous S${\mathrm{i}}_{3}$${\mathrm{N}}_{4}$ films is investigated with large-scale molecular-dynamics simulations on parallel machines. We observe a correlation between the speed of crack propagation and the morphology of fracture surfaces. Initially, as the crack propagates slowly, the roughness exponent for fracture surfaces is found to be 0.44. However, beyond a certain speed of crack propagation, the exponent crosses over to 0.8. This crossover behavior is similar to the recent experimental finding by Bouchaud and Nav\'eos.
How reliable are human hair reference intervals for trace elements

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used for the determination of major and trace element concentrations in scalp hair samples from a population group (N = 1091) of Rio de Janeiro city. From these results, preliminary 'normal' or reference intervals were calculated which are for several trace elements (e.g. B, V, Co, Ge, Mo, Au, As, Se, Sb, Th), but also for some minor elements (e.g. Ca, Mg) in disaccord with data published by five clinical laboratories which used inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). The limitations of ICP-AES in routine hair analysis is shown by comparison of detection limits for both methods and by results from two laboratory intercomparison exercises. It is evident from these data that published reference intervals have to be used with extreme caution and that their urgent revision, based on reliable data produced by the ICP-MS technique, is of extreme importance.
Paired-associate CVC learning with varied m' in schizophrenic patients.

Summary.-This study investigated the relationship between speed of acquisition in a paired-associate CVC learning task and scaled meaningfulness (m') in schizophrenic Ss. 12 male Ss practiced on 3 lists (low, medium, and high m' level) of 10 SR pairs each. The findings indicate that rate of acquisition is a positive function of increasing m' in schizophrenic Ss. It is known that speed of acquisition in verbal learning tasks is significantly affected by the characteristics of the stimulus material in normal Ss (Noble, 1963). Research on the measurement of and the role of meaningfulness (m and m') in verbal learning has been summarized elsewhere (Noble, 1952; Noble, 1961; Noble, 1963). The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether Noble's original hypothesis about the primacy of meaningfulness, as defined by the rating method, could be extended to a wider range of Ss, specifically schizophrenic patients. A study reported by Cieutat (1959) suggested that perhaps this extension is applicable to hospitalized patients; however, Ss used in this study were not clearly diagnosed. Therefore, it seemed appropriate to investigate the relationship between scaled meaningfulness (m') and speed of acquisition in paired-associate verbal learning for diagnosed schizophrenic patients. METHOD Sab jects Twelve male patients were selected as Ss from the VA inpatient ward and the Day Treatment Center. All patients were previously diagnosed as schizophrenic reaction, were free of known organic brain dysfunction, and had a history of more than one previous hospitalization. Ages ranged from 22 to 49 yr., with a mean age of 33.7 yr.
Spectrophotometric determination of chromium in human plasma and red cells

Abstract A spectrophotometric method is presented for the determination of traces of chromium in human plasma and red cells. It is based upon the red-violet complex formed by the reaction of dichromate with diphenylcarbazide and includes an oxidation process for the conversion of chromium (III) to dichromate and a separation of iron (III) from chromium (III). Data on the accuracy and precision of the method are given. Values found for chromium in the normal blood fractions are compared with those reported in the literature. The method described for red cells can be applied to whole human blood without modification.
Cement as an indicator of economic development

Abstract The objectives of this paper were to determine the usefulness of cement production per capita and cement consumption per capita as indicators of the economic development of countries. Some of the conclusions developed from this investigation are: (1) The cement indicators have a higher degree of correlation with gross national product per capita than any other of the indicators examined; (2) Cement data can be collected more easily, quickly, and perhaps more accurately than GNP data for less developed countries; and (3) Cement consumption per capita may be a better indicator than GNP per capita for less developed countries.
Automatic control of NASA Langley's 0.3-meter cryogenic test facility

Experience during the past 6 years of operation of the 0.3-meter transonic cryogenic tunnel at the NASA Langley Research Center has shown that there are problems associated with efficient operation and control of cryogenic tunnels using manual control schemes. This is due to the high degree of process crosscoupling between the independent control variables (temperature, pressure, and fan drive speed) and the desired test condition (Mach number and Reynolds number). One problem has been the inability to maintain long-term accurate control of the test parameters. Additionally, the time required to change from one test condition to another has proven to be excessively long and much less efficient than desirable in terms of liquid nitrogen and electrical power usage. For these reasons, studies have been undertaken to: (1) develop and validate a mathematical model of the 0.3-meter cryogenic tunnel process, (2) utilize this model in a hybrid computer simulation to design temperature and pressure feedback control laws, and (3) evaluate the adequacy of these control schemes by analysis of closed-loop experimental data. This paper will present the results of these studies.
Foreign Currency Exposure in the Department of Defense

The Department of Defense (DoD) incurs numerous costs denominated in foreign currencies in fulfilling U.S. alliance and security agreements overseas. Between fiscal years 1993 and 1997, the DoD expended over $10.4 billion in foreign currencies to operate and maintain its overseas facilities, and estimates for fiscal years 1998 and 1999 are $5.4 billion. In line with the government’s general, risk-neutral approach to financial risk, the DoD makes no attempt to control its foreign exchange exposure against currency fluctuations. As such, there are inevitable differences in amounts budgeted to fund the DoD’s overseas operations and amounts subsequently required to pay them. This paper examines the implications of DoD foreign exchange rate policy and applies an alternative approach to foreign exchange rate risk—one more in line with private-sector practices and overall efforts to reform government operations. The results indicate that forward contracts would inject greater certainty into the budgeting and administration of these programs and might release limited defense funds for use elsewhere.
An Integral Path Self-Calibration Scheme for a Dual-Loop PLL

An integral-path self-calibration scheme is introduced as part of a 20.1 GHz to 26.7 GHz low-noise PLL in 32 nm CMOS SOI. A dual-loop architecture in combination with an integral path measurement and correction scheme desensitizes the loop transfer function to the VCO's small signal gain variations. The spread of gain peaking is reduced by self-calibration from 2.4 dB to 1 dB, when measured at 70 sites on a 300 mm wafer. The PLL has a measured phase noise @10 MHz offset of -126.5 dBc/Hz at 20.1 GHz and - 124.2 dBc/Hz at 24 GHz
Perioperative Care of Patients with Diabetes

Proper care of patients with diabetes during the perioperative period is crucial for preventing acute complications such as hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. Many factors influence the optimal care plan, including the usual home diabetes regimen, the level of diabetes control before surgery, the surgery type, the duration of surgery, and the amount of time the patient will be fasting. An optimal plan of care is based on a thorough presurgical assessment and prescribing a regimen that will minimize acute complications. This article discusses recommendations for target blood glucose and diabetes medication adjustment during the perioperative period.
The time course of protection from delayed neurotoxicity induced by tri-o-cresyl phosphate and O,O-diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate by phenyl methyl sulfonyl fluoride in chickens.

The time dependence of the ability of phenyl methyl sulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) to protect adult hens from developing signs of paralysis following the administration of 750 mg/kg tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (TOCP), p.o., of 1.7 mg/kg O,O-diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate (DFP), s.c., was investigated. PMSF was able to protect the hens from organophosphorus-induced delayed neurotoxicity (OPIDN) when given between 1 and 24 h before the administration of TOCP, or when given 4 h before DFP. However, PMSF was ineffective at preventing paralysis when given 24 h following dosing with TOCP or when given later than 4 h before DFP administration. These results support the notion that PMSF acts at the same site as the organophosphorus esters.
Generation of allocation sequences in randomised trials: chance, not choice

Summary The randomised controlled trial sets the gold standard of clinical research. However, randomisation persists as perhaps the least-understood aspect of a trial. Moreover, anything short of proper randomisation courts selection and confounding biases. Researchers should spurn all systematic, non-random methods of allocation. Trial participants should be assigned to comparison groups based on a random process. Simple (unrestricted) randomisation, analogous to repeated fair coin-tossing, is the most basic of sequence generation approaches. Furthermore, no other approach, irrespective of its complexity and sophistication, surpasses simple randomisation for prevention of bias. Investigators should, therefore, use this method more often than they do, and readers should expect and accept disparities in group sizes. Several other complicated restricted randomisation procedures limit the likelihood of undesirable sample size imbalances in the intervention groups. The most frequently used restricted sequence generation procedure is blocked randomisation. If this method is used, investigators should randomly vary the block sizes and use larger block sizes, particularly in an unblinded trial. Other restricted procedures, such as urn randomisation, combine beneficial attributes of simple and restricted randomisation by preserving most of the unpredictability while achieving some balance. The effectiveness of stratified randomisation depends on use of a restricted randomisation approach to balance the allocation sequences for each stratum. Generation of a proper randomisation sequence takes little time and effort but affords big rewards in scientific accuracy and credibility. Investigators should devote appropriate resources to the generation of properly randomised trials and reporting their methods clearly.
Auditor independence judgments: A cognitive‐developmental model and experimental evidence*

Abstract. This paper describes a psychological framework that examines auditors' conceptions of independence in the context of ethical cognition. An experimental study of independence judgments of 119 partners and managers in two national public accounting firms is reported. Using a well-known measure of ethical cognition, this study examines auditors' implicit reasoning in the resolution of an independence paradigm. The most significant are that (1) a systematic relationship between auditors' measured ethical cognition and their resolution of an independence conflict exists, (2) the penalty attribute is a much stronger influence than the affiliation attribute on the auditors' ethical resolve, and (3) the cognitive measure used in this study can be used efficiently to explain priority rankings of a majority of independence attributes developed in earlier research. Resume. Les auteurs decrivent ici une grille psychologique permettant d'analyser la facon dont les verificateurs concoivent l'impartialite dans le contexte de la conscience ethique. Ils font etat des resultats d'une etude experimentale des jugements d'impartialite de 119 associes et chefs de groupe attaches a deux cabinets d'experts-comptables nationaux. Utilisant une mesure bien connue de la conscience ethique, les auteurs ana-lysent le raisonnement implicite des verificateurs dans la resolution d'un paradigme d'impartialite. Les principaux resultats de l'etude sont les suivants: 1) il existe une relation systematique entre la conscience ethique mesuree chez les verificateurs et la facon dont ils resolvent un probleme d'impartialite, 2) l'attribut « sanction » a sur la decision ethique des verificateurs une influence beaucoup plus grande que l'attribut « affiliation » et 3) la mesure cognitive utilisee dans cette etude est efficace dans l'explication des classements de la plupart des attributs d'impartialite definis dans le travaux de recherche anterieurs.
Organofunctional phosphazenes and organofunctional phosphazene polymers

Recent work has shown that the range of synthesis of new and useful phosphazene derivatives can be dramatically expanded by incorporation of an organofunctional substituent on the phosphazene ring. This substituent can serve as the site for various synthetic transformations leading to new monomeric and polymeric phosphazene moieties. Initial work on propenylphosphazenes and their copolymerization with organic monomers is briefly reviewed. The synthesis of new improved phosphazene monomers which lead to flame retardant copolymers is discussed. In addition to electron-rich olefins such as alkoxylvinylphosphazenes, novel alkynlphosphazene/styrene copolymers were prepared. The vinyl alcohol derivative N3P3Cl5OCH=CH2 and related compounds were prepared and characterized. Both homopolymerization and a broad range of copolymerization reactions of N3P3Cl5OCH=CH2 are presented. The properties of these systems can be modified by reactions of the cyclophosphazene units in the polymer.
Perversity and ethnoregionalism in tribal India: the politics of the Jharkhand

Abstract Since Independence, the politics of Chota Nagpur and Santal Parganas in eastern India has been much influenced by the Jharkhand party and by other organizations committed to the formation of a tribal Jharkhand state in South Bihar. Several theories have been advanced to account for the rise (and fall) of Jharkhandi ethnoregionalism. This article examines an ‘official’ or ‘perversity’ account of Jharkhandi politics. The perversity model makes three main claims: (1) that British tribal politics were informed by a philosophy of tardy isolationism; (2) that since Independence this philosophy has been supplanted by a spirit of integrationism based upon positive discrimination for tribal development; and (3) that the rise of Jharkhandi ethnoregionalism since 1950 (therefore) represents a perverse response to the enlightened tribal policies of the post-colonial state. These claims are examined in turn. The paper rejects the isolationist/integra-tionist dichotomy. It suggests that the rise of Jharkhandi ethnoregionalism represents a rational response to the opportunities and constraints that post-Independence administrations have opened up to, and imposed upon, the tribal communities of eastern India. The opportunities arise from the government's positive discrimination legislation and from its willingness to recognize the Scheduled Tribes as a distinctive political constituency. The constraints derive from the state's failure to meet the aspirations of this ‘new’ political community. For the tribal communities of eastern India the state is both a resource and a legitimate target of attack.
The glomerular mesangium: Uptake and transport of intravenously injected colloidal carbon in rats

The glomerular mesangium: Uptake and transport of intravenously injected colloidal carbon in rats. Colloidal carbon, 70 mg/100 g, was injected into rats which were sacrificed for histologic study of the kidneys at intervals of five minutes to seven weeks. Transient thrombocytopenia and albuminuria were observed. Uptake of carbon by the mesangium of glomeruli was maximal at 32hr and gradually decreased thereafter. Semiquantitative analysis of the distribution of carbon particles within glomeruli revealed a predominately peripheral localization during early time periods, and increased relative concentrations of particles within more central zones and in the lacis area at the vascular pole of the glomerulus at two to seven weeks, indicating that one of the mechanisms for clearance of materials from the mesangium was movement of particles in the direction of the lacis area. Sequential electron microscopic studies showed that carbon particles moved through fenestrae in the endothelium covering the mesangium into channels between mesangial cells. Observations at later intervals suggested that carbon eventually reached the vascular pole by being passed on from one mesangial cell to the next. Vasoactive amines or other substances derived from platelets may play an important role in initiating the process of mesangial uptake. Mesangium glomerulaire: Captation et transport du carbone colloidal injecte par voie intra-veineuse chez le rat. Du carbone colloidal, 70mg par 100 g, a ete injecte a des rats qui ont ete sacrifies, pour l'etude histologique des reins, apres des delais allant de cinq minutes a sept semaines. Une albuminurie et une thrombocytopenie transitoires ont ete observees. La captation de carbone colloidal est maximale a 32 heures et diminue progressivement au dela. L'analyse semi-quantitative de la distribution des particules de charbon a l'interieur des glomerules revele une localisation peripherique predominante dans les temps precoces et, de deux a sept semaines, une augmentation de la concentration relative des particules dans des zones plus centrales et dans la region du lacis au pole vasculaire du glomerule. Cela indique que l'un des mecanismes d'epuration du mesangium est un mouvement de particules vers la region du lacis. Des etudes sequentielles en microscopie electronique montrent que les particules de carbone vont, a travers des fenetres de l'endothelium qui recouvrent le mesangium, dans des canaux situes entre les cellules mesangiales. Des observations plus tardives suggerent que le carbone atteint finalement le pole vasculaire apres avoir ete transfere d'une cellule mesangiale a la cellule adjacente. Les amines vaso-actives ou d'autres substances derivees des plaquettes pourraient jouer un role important en initiant le processus de captation mesangiale.
Features selection for clustering of fMRI data

We address the problem of the analysis of event-related functional Magnetic Resonance Images (fMRI). We propose to separate the fMRI time series into "activated" and "non-activated" clusters. The fMRI time series are projected onto a basis, and the clustering is performed using the coefficients in that basis. We developed a new algorithm to select that basis which provides the optimal clustering of the time series. Our approach does not require any training datasets or any model of the hemodynamic response. The basis is constructed using a dictionary of wavelet packets. We search for the optimal basis in this dictionary using a new cost function that measures the clustering power of a set of wavelet packets. Our approach can be easily extended to classification problems. We have conducted several experiments with synthetic and in-vivo event-related fMRI data. Our method is capable of discovering the structures of the synthetic data. The method also successfully detected activated voxels in the in-vivo fMRI.
Impact of diverse polarisations on clutter statistics

The author addresses the impact of diverse polarisations on clutter statistics in the context of waveform diversity for multi-functional operation from a specific platform as well as for multiple sensing from multiple platforms. A key issue in this context is that of clutter mitigation via the use of diverse waveforms. Classical space–time adaptive processing (STAP) methods for radar target detection can be viewed in the context of a whiten and match filter. To this end, efficient waveforms that lend themselves for such processing are sought. The author specifically considers a statistical analysis of experimental data collected at low grazing angles to validate the fact that vertical transmit–vertical receive (VV) polarised data conform to Rayleigh scatter, whereas horizontal transmit–horizontal receive data do not. Consequently, VV data are suitable for whiten and match processing adopted in conventional radar STAP.
Combustor technology for future aircraft

The continuing improvement of aircraft gas turbine engine operating efficiencies involves increases in overall engine pressure ratio increases that will result in combustor inlet pressure and temperature increases, greater combustion temperature rises, and higher combustor exit temperatures. These conditions entail the development of fuel injectors generating uniform circumferential and radial temperature patterns, as well as combustor liner configurations and materials capable of withstanding increased thermal radiation even as the amount of cooling air is reduced. Low NO(x)-emitting combustor concepts are required which will employ staged combustion. The development status of component technologies answering these requirements are presently evaluated.
Effect of wound type on Smad 2 and 4 translocation

RESULTS. In unwounded tissue, Smad 2 was cytoplasmic. By 4 hours after keratectomy, nuclear localization was visible in a few epithelial basal cells at the leading edge of the wound. The number of basal cells expressing nuclear Smad 2 in the wound area increased with time, peaking at 48 hours (95%). However, in the debridement model, Smad 2 localization remained primarily cytoplasmic. Smad 4 showed similar localization. In both wound models, p38MAPK inhibitor slowed epithelial migration, and v6 integrin appeared to be upregulated with localization primarily observed in the basal cells migrating over the wound area. CONCLUSIONS. The presence of the basement membrane appears to have an effect on the extent and duration of translocation of the Smad 2 and 4 proteins during corneal epithelial wound repair. The Smad pathway does not appear to be essential for migration; rather, it may play a role in resynthesis of the basement membrane. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2005; 46:2362‐2368) DOI:10.1167/iovs.04-0759
Triterpenoid saponins from Sesbania vesicaria

Abstract Nine oleanane saponins including three new and six known were isolated from the seeds of Sesbania vesicaria. The new saponins were established as 3-O-[α- l -rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 3)]-β- d -glucuronopyranosyl-3β,29-dihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid, 3-O-α- l -rhamnopyranosyl-28-O-β- d -glucopyransoyl-3β-hydroxy-olean-12-en-23-al-28-oate, and 3-O-α- l -rhamnopyranosyl-28-O-β- d -glucopyransoyl-3β,23-dihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oate. All isolated saponins were assayed for their DNA topoisomerase I inhibition ability and cytotoxicity against A549 human lung adenocarcinoma epithelial cells with no positive activity detected (IC50 > 312 μM and GI50 > 25 μM, respectively).
Development of the catfish 250K SNP array for genome-wide association studies

Quantitative traits, such as disease resistance, are most often controlled by a set of genes involving a complex array of regulation. The dissection of genetic basis of quantitative traits requires large numbers of genetic markers with good genome coverage. The application of next-generation sequencing technologies has allowed discovery of over eight million SNPs in catfish, but the challenge remains as to how to efficiently and economically use such SNP resources for genetic analysis. In this work, we developed a catfish 250K SNP array using Affymetrix Axiom genotyping technology. The SNPs were obtained from multiple sources including gene-associated SNPs, anonymous genomic SNPs, and inter-specific SNPs. A set of 640K high-quality SNPs obtained following specific requirements of array design were submitted. A panel of 250,113 SNPs was finalized for inclusion on the array. The performance evaluated by genotyping individuals from wild populations and backcross families suggested the good utility of the catfish 250K SNP array. This is the first high-density SNP array for catfish. The array should be a valuable resource for genome-wide association studies (GWAS), fine QTL mapping, high-density linkage map construction, haplotype analysis, and whole genome-based selection.
Herding by Mobile Phone: Technology, Social Networks and the “Transformation” of Pastoral Herding in East Africa

Over the last decade, the number of people who rely on mobile phones in sub-Saharan Africa has grown rapidly. The ubiquity of mobile phones in rural livestock communities is thought to “transform” or “revolutionize” the way different social groups interact as they manage social, political and environmental challenges to their livelihood strategies. This research among pastoralists in Kenya examines the political, economic, ecological and socio-spatial contexts in which mobile phones are used and places these contexts within pre-existing resource struggles in order to understand the prevalence of mobile phone use among pastoralists. Results indicate that, while the use of mobile phones for herding is widespread, the extent and efficacy of information sharing is strongly influenced by pre-existing social struggles to gain access to prohibited grazing locations.
Chemical bonding in hard boronhexagonal boron nitride multilayers

Abstract The oxides and nitrides of boron show great potential for use as hard, wear-resistant materials. However, large intrinsic stresses and poor adhesion often accompany the hard coatings as found for the cubic boron nitride phase. These effects may be moderated through the use of a layered structure. Alternate stiff layers of boron (B) and compliant layers of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) are formed by modulating the sputter gas composition during deposition from a pure B target. The B/hBN thin films are characterized with transmission electron microscopy to evaluate the microstructure, nanoindentation to measure hardness and X-ray absorption spectroscopy to determine chemical bonding. The effects of layer pair spacing on chemical bonding and hardness are evaluated for the B/hBN films.
A Microprocessor Controlled Reactivity Meter for Real Time Monitoring of Reactors

Using a General Instrument 1600 microprocessor, a compact reactivity meter for real time monitoring of reactors has been developed. The microprocessor was programmed to solve the inverse kinetics equations using the digitized output of an ionization chamber neutron detector for the power history. Use of the simplest programming steps and emphasis of hardware for input/output operations enabled reactivity updates every 0.1 seconds. The device can be easily adapted to any reactor system with a power output signal once the kinetic parameters are known and incorporated into the processor program.
Controlled growth of novel hyper-branched nanostructures in nanoporous alumina membrane

This paper proposes a novel approach to fabricate hyper-branched anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) nanostructures with different branches on the vertically-aligned trunk and at the trunk terminal. Silver nanowires with different dimensional and multifunctional complexity have been prepared from this hyper-branched AAO template by varying the electrodeposition time. These kinds of novel nanostructure may be used to build blocks for nanoelectronic and nanophotonic devices.
DNA homologies between the rainbow trout, chum salmon and coho salmon.

Abstract 1. 1. The thermal stabilities of hybrid duplexes between the DNAs from three salmonid fish species were monitored as measures of DNA homology. 2. 2. The chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta, and coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch, had more DNA homology with each other than either had with the rainbow trout, Salmo gairdnerii. 3. 3. Morphological, ecological and protein similarities between the coho salmon and the rainbow trout may be due to parallel or convergent evolution.
Study on the Behaviors of Different Polystyrene-block-Poly(methyl methacrylate) Diblock Copolymers Adsorbed at the Air/Water Interface

Using surface quasi-elastic light scattering (SLS), we have studied the monolayer behavior of diblock copolymers A−B, where the A block is polystyrene (PS, surface inactive and water insoluble) and the B block is poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA, surface active but water insoluble), at the air/water interface (two-dimensional domain) in terms of the power spectra and the surface viscoelasticity. The polystyrene blocks of the diblock copolymers have similar molecular weights, but the molecular weights of the poly(methyl methacrylate) blocks vary. Substantial changes in viscoelastic behavior accompany changes in surface concentration and can be attributed to differences in molecular packing resulting from micelle formation and surface phase behavior, which are consistent with atomic force microscope (AFM) images of monolayer films transferred from air/water interfaces to solid substrates. The state change is similar to previous results obtained using the dynamic (stepwise compression) method. At submonolayer...
Long-Run Relationship between Default Rates and Macroeconomic Variables in the U.S. Leveraged Loan Market

This article examines and ascertains a long-run relationship of leveraged loan defaults rates and macroeconomic variables in the United States. It identifies factors in the economic environment that have a significant impact on the development of leveraged loans. The author uses a vector error correcting model to elaborate the interdependencies among industrial production, credit spreads, differences between credit and leveraged loan spreads, the stock market, and the number of defaults of the S&P Leveraged Loan Index. The time series is based on 156 months between January 1999 and December 2011. Credit spreads, differences in loan and bond spreads, and the stock market have a positive impact on default rates, whereas industrial production shows a negative sign. All factor variables are highly significant aside from the stock market.
Ionization and recombination coefficients for Fe XV--Fe XIX

During neutral-beam-heated, counter-injection discharges in the ISX-$B$ tokamak, impurities tend to collect in the interior of the plasmas. In these circumstances iron ions preferentially accumulate with long confinement times in regions of almost constant electron temperature. The concentrations of intermediate stages of iron (Fe XV, XVI, XVIII, and XIX) have been studied under these conditions to investigate the ratios of recombination and ionization coefficients. The dielectronic recombination coefficients are then deduced by assuming that the ionization and the radiative and charge-exchange recombination rates can be calculated closely from theory.
Non-Contact Virtual Instrument Measurement System for Analyzing the Liquid Droplet Shrinkage Parameters

Recent trend in assembly techniques in automotive industry has shown that adhesive bonding is gaining new applications. The main problem faced with the usage of adhesives is the need to understand the effects of adhesive bonding on the dimensional tolerances. Adhesive shrinkage depends on various parameters like base metal’s surface roughness, reflectivity, curing intensity etc., to name a few. In order to allocate the shrinkage allowance, we need to establish the parameters affecting the shrinkage. For this, we need to design a set of experiments and design a measurement system for calculating the adhesive shrinkage. This paper discusses the development of typical real time measurement system used for volumetric shrinkage measurement. The system is integrated with specialized laser, rotary mechanism, imaging system, data acquisition and virtual instrument. The paper details a systematic methodology that can be easily duplicated, the initial design stages planned and executed, and the repeatability and reproducibility test results done on the initial system. The test data is stored in spreadsheet format along with other parameters under consideration like the base plate’s surface roughness, reflectivity, and curing intensity. Based on the initial study, the root cause analysis will be done and further tests will be conducted on the new system utilizing the taguchi method. The tests would help us find the parameters controlling the shrinkage and also their interdependence factors.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Peptic ulcer perforation as the presentation of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

We examined the characteristics of patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome who developed a perforation prior to diagnosis to determine whether any clinical features were useful markers of the syndrome. Of 160 patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, perforation occurred prior to the diagnosis being made in 11 (7%). At surgery, perforations were found in the duodenum in six cases and in the jejunum in five. In no case was tumor identified at emergency surgery, and the diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome was made only in the postoperative period when excessive gastric secretions were noted. Neither acid output nor serum gastrin concentration were useful predictors for perforation. The patients, six men and five women, were 27–61 years old (median 48) and one had MEN-1. Three patients had no symptoms prior to the perforation. The other eight had symptoms for 1–15 years, with diarrhea occurring in 45% of the cases. Following the diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, patients were given medication to control gastric acid hypersecretion. Eight patients remained well, but the three patients who had had a partial gastrectomy had a complicated course despite medical therapy. Although features of perforation in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome are not specific, jejunal perforation or perforation associated with a history of diarrhea is suggestive of the diagnosis. Serum gastrin should be measured in every case and a partial gastrectomy avoided.