cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient View-Dependent Image-Based Rendering with Projective Texture-Mapping

This paper presents how the image-based rendering technique of view-dependent texture-mapping (VDTM) can be efficiently implemented using projective texture mapping, a feature commonly available in polygon graphics hardware. VDTM is a technique for generating novel views of a scene with approximately known geometry making maximal use of a sparse set of original views. The original presentation of VDTM in by Debevec, Taylor, and Malik required significant per-pixel computation and did not scale well with the number of original images. In our technique, we precompute for each polygon the set of original images in which it is visible and create a "view map" data structure that encodes the best texture map to use for a regularly sampled set of possible viewing directions. To generate a novel view, the view map for each polygon is queried to determine a set of no more than three original images to blended together in order to render the polygon with projective texture-mapping. Invisible triangles are shaded using an object-space hole-filling method. We show how the rendering process can be streamlined for implementation on standard polygon graphics hardware. We present results of using the method to render a large-scale model of the Berkeley bell tower and its surrounding campus enironment.
Pollution prevention in new weapon system acquisition

The author discusses what is being done to prevent pollution in the development, production, operation, and maintenance of weapon systems that will be fielded years later. He describes the program manager (the decision maker) and the program manager's work environment. The author discusses the processes in place that are the program manager's tools. The organizations and committees that support the program manager are reviewed. These three areas summarize the effort that the US Air Force Systems Command is putting on acquisition pollution prevention. Specific success stores from the National Aerospace Plane, B-2, and F-22 are discussed to show what is being done. >
Vladislav M. Zubok: A Failed Empire: The Soviet Union in the Cold War from Stalin to Gorbachev

Vladislav Zubok is a Russian scholar who received his doctorate from the Institute for the Study of Canada and the USA of the Soviet Academy of Sciences. He is currently Associate Professor of Hist...
Narrowband mid-infrared generation in elliptically pumped periodically poled lithium niobate

Abstract : Narrow bandwidths and near diffraction limited beam divergence are demonstrated in an elliptically pumped, diode-laser seeded, optical parametric generator. This represents a significant step towards high-energy tunable infrared systems with favorable beam characteristics.
Latent classes of course in Alzheimer's disease and predictors: the Cache County Dementia Progression Study

Objective Several longitudinal studies of Alzheimer's disease (AD) report heterogeneity in progression. We sought to identify groups (classes) of progression trajectories in the population-based Cache County Dementia Progression Study (N = 328) and to identify baseline predictors of membership for each group. Methods We used parallel-process growth mixture models to identify latent classes of trajectories on the basis of Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes scores over time. We then used bias-corrected multinomial logistic regression to model baseline predictors of latent class membership. We constructed receiver operating characteristic curves to demonstrate relative predictive utility of successive sets of predictors. Results We fit four latent classes; class 1 was the largest (72%) and had the slowest progression. Classes 2 (8%), 3 (11%), and 4 (8%) had more rapid worsening. In univariate analyses, longer dementia duration, presence of psychosis, and worse baseline MMSE and Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes were associated with membership in class 2, relative to class 1. Lower education was associated with membership in class 3. In the multivariate model, only MMSE remained a statistically significant predictor of class membership. Receiver operating characteristic areas under the curve were 0.98, 0.88, and 0.67, for classes 2, 3, and 4 relative to class 1. Conclusions Heterogeneity in AD course can be usefully characterized using growth mixture models. The majority belonged to a class characterized by slower decline than is typically reported in clinical samples. Class membership could be predicted using baseline covariates. Further study may advance our prediction of AD course at the population level and in turn shed light on the pathophysiology of progression. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laser (U-Th)/He thermochronology of detrital zircons as a tool for studying surface processes in modern catchments

[1] Detrital mineral thermochronology of modern sediments is a valuable tool for interrogating landscape evolution. Detrital zircon (U-Th)/He thermochronology is of particular interest because zircons are durable and withstand transport in glacial and fluvial systems far better than, for example, apatite. However, because of the time-intensive nature of conventional zircon (U-Th)/He thermochronology, most previous studies of this kind have relied on data for a few tens of grains, even though conventional wisdom holds that a substantially larger number is necessary for a robust characterization of the population of cooling ages in a sample. Here, we introduce a microanalytical approach to detrital zircon (U-Th)/He thermochronology that addresses many factors that can complicate the interpretation of conventional zircon (U-Th)/He data, particularly with respect to alpha ejection and injection and U + Th zoning. In addition, this technique permits the effective dating of naturally abraded and broken grains, and, therefore, lessens the potential for sampling bias. We apply both conventional and laser microprobe techniques to a detrital sample from the Ladakh Range in the northwestern Indian Himalaya, showing that the two yield very similar principal modes of apparent ages. However, the laser microprobe data yield a broader spectrum of ages than that of the conventional data set, which we interpret to be caused by bias related to the selection requirements for zircons used for conventional dating. This method thus provides a time-efficient route to obtaining a higher-resolution distribution of dates from a single sample, which will, in turn, yield higher-fidelity constraints regarding catchment-wide erosion rates for surface process studies.
El estudio de los problemas de la población Negra

Este articulo propone una agenda de investigacion sociologica para estudiar los problemasde la poblacion Negra en los Estados Unidos. La primera parte describe la maneraen que se han desarrollado los problemas de la poblacion Negra producto de las relacionesde explotacion en el sistema esclavista. La segunda, evalua los problemas actuales dela poblacion negra en el proceso de formacion del Estado post-emancipacion, entre losque se destacan la deficiente situacion economica y la imposibilidad de equiparar la eficienciasocial de este grupo con los demas grupos sociales de la nacion. Una tercera parteplantea la necesidad de estudiar cuidadosamente los problemas de la poblacion Negra. Lacuarta parte, describe el trabajo logrado en este sentido. Finalmente una quinta seccionpropone un programa de estudio para el futuro, en el que el estado y las universidadesaparecen como las instituciones mejor dotadas para conducirlo.
Plerixafor-augmented peripheral blood stem cell mobilization in AL amyloidosis with cardiac involvement: a case series.

AbstractNearly half of AL amyloidosis patients have cardiac involvement, an independent predictor of poor prognosis. High-dose melphalan and autologous stem-cell transplantation (HDM/SCT) can induce complete hematologic responses and prolong survival in AL amyloidosis. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-induced mobilization of peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) in AL amyloidosis patients is associated with volume overload, arrhythmias and capillary leak syndrome. Plerixafor has a different mechanism of action and has non-overlapping toxicities with G-CSF. We describe our experience in five patients with AL amyloidosis and cardiac involvement who received plerixafor with G-CSF for PBSC mobilization. Median age was 56 years; two patients had undergone heart transplantation within the year prior to HDM/SCT. Three patients received plerixafor after an initial trial of mobilization with G-CSF alone. No patient had any significant toxicities during mobilization and PBSC collection. The median total yi...
Localization of the Neural Inductor and Tail Mesoderm in a Frog Egg (Hyla regilla)

Conclusions1. In the early gastrula of the anuran Hyla regilla the inductor of the neural plate is localized approximately in the dorsal lip region of the mesodermal band, that is, it extends about 45° on either side of the dorsal mid-line. 2. The tail-forming potencies are localized in the lateral and ventro-lateral regions of the mesoderm, with the higher percentage of tails developing from the ventro-lateral regions after implantation. The dorsal and the ventral lip mesoderm do not form tails after implantation. 3. The present results show that the anuran Hyla has distinct differences in the localization of certain developmental capacities as compared to the eggs of urodeles. Both the neural inductor and the tail mesoderm have a more limited meridional extent in Hyla.
Kinetic Properties of GABA ρ1 Homomeric Receptors Expressed in HEK293 Cells

The ρ1 subunit of the ionotropic GABA receptors is thought to contribute to the formation of the GABAC receptors with pharmacological and physiological properties distinct from those of GABAA receptors. Previous characterization of this subunit expressed in the Xenopus oocytes revealed an ion channel with slow activation and deactivation and no desensitization, quite different from the properties of GABAC receptors observed in native cells. We expressed the human ρ1 subunit in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells and quantitatively characterized the kinetic properties of these receptors using a rapid drug application device. The ρ1 subunit expressed in HEK293 cells exhibited pharmacological and kinetic properties qualitatively identical to those described when ρ1 was expressed in the oocytes. An apparent desensitizing current observed during a constant GABA application was determined to be secondary to an ECl shift. Detailed kinetic analyses and parameter estimation for a five-state kinetic model revealed that the channel is best described by a set of rate constants with a notably faster GABA unbinding Koff rate compared to the parameters proposed for the same subunit expressed in the oocytes. The same subunit expressed in hippocampal neurons showed activation and deactivation kinetics identical to the current characterized in HEK293 cells. The kinetic properties of ρ1 subunit expressed in a nonoocyte model system may be better described quantitatively by the rate constants presented here.
Seismo-acoustic signals associated with degassing explosions recorded at Shishaldin Volcano, Alaska, 2003–2004

In summer 2003, a Chaparral Model 2 microphone was deployed at Shishaldin Volcano, Aleutian Islands, Alaska. The pressure sensor was co-located with a short-period seismometer on the volcano’s north flank at a distance of 6.62 km from the active summit vent. The seismo-acoustic data exhibit a correlation between impulsive acoustic signals (1–2 Pa) and long-period (LP, 1–2 Hz) earthquakes. Since it last erupted in 1999, Shishaldin has been characterized by sustained seismicity consisting of many hundreds to two thousand LP events per day. The activity is accompanied by up to ∼200 m high discrete gas puffs exiting the small summit vent, but no significant eruptive activity has been confirmed. The acoustic waveforms possess similarity throughout the data set (July 2003–November 2004) indicating a repetitive source mechanism. The simplicity of the acoustic waveforms, the impulsive onsets with relatively short (∼10–20 s) gradually decaying codas and the waveform similarities suggest that the acoustic pulses are generated at the fluid–air interface within an open-vent system. SO2 measurements have revealed a low SO2 flux, suggesting a hydrothermal system with magmatic gases leaking through. This hypothesis is supported by the steady-state nature of Shishaldin’s volcanic system since 1999. Time delays between the seismic LP and infrasound onsets were acquired from a representative day of seismo-acoustic data. A simple model was used to estimate source depths. The short seismo-acoustic delay times have revealed that the seismic and acoustic sources are co-located at a depth of 240±200 m below the crater rim. This shallow depth is confirmed by resonance of the upper portion of the open conduit, which produces standing waves with f=0.3 Hz in the acoustic waveform codas. The infrasound data has allowed us to relate Shishaldin’s LP earthquakes to degassing explosions, created by gas volume ruptures from a fluid–air interface.
Diamond disc pad conditioning in chemical mechanical planarization (CMP): A surface element method to predict pad surface shape

Abstract Chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) is widely used to planarize semiconductor wafers and smooth the wafer surface. In CMP, a diamond disc conditioner is employed to condition (or dress) a polishing pad to restore the pad planarity and surface roughness. In this paper, a surface element method is proposed to develop a mathematic model to predict the pad surface shape resulted from diamond disc conditioning. The developed model is then validated by published experimental data. Results show that the model effectively simulates diamond disc conditioning and predicts the pad surface shape.
The biological effects of lithium

Abstract Lithium is a simple metallic ion yet it has a dramatically beneficial effect on a major form of serious mental illness, manic-depressive psychosis. It is this unique combination which stimulates great interest as well as research activity into lithium's biological effects, which Michael Sheard describes here.
Systematics of f-element crystal-field interaction

Abstract Systematic behaviors of free-ion and crystal-field interactions are elucidated as a function of N, the number of f electrons in a lanthanide or actinide ion. Experimentally determined values of the free-ion interaction parameters are compared with those calculated based on Hartree-Fock theory. Comparison is also made between the lanthanide series in 4 f N configurations and the actinide series in 5 f N configurations. Variation in intra-ionic electrostatic interaction, spin–orbit coupling, and ion–ligand interaction is analyzed in comparison between the iso-f-electron lanthanide and actinide ions. Based on an exchange-charge model of crystal-field theory, crystal-field parameters of the f-element ions in various crystals are summarized in terms of point charge contribution and covalence effect. A systematic correlation is found between the free-ion parameters and the crystal-field strength. Increase of the crystal-field interaction results in a reduction in the free-ion parameters.
Toxicity of cadmium in human trophoblast cells (JAr choriocarcinoma): role of calmodulin and the calmodulin inhibitor, zaldaride maleate.

Abstract Cadmium (Cd), the heavy metal, is toxic to the placenta. The objectives of this study were to determine if Cd toxicity is due to inhibition of placental or trophoblast cell proliferation through interactions with the intracellular calcium binding protein, calmodulin (CaM). Cd can replace calcium and thus interfere with CaM's function. Also, CaM inhibitors reverse selected toxic effects of Cd. The CaM inhibitor, zaldaride maleate, was used to determine if Cd inhibits trophoblast cell proliferation through interactions with CaM. JAr choriocarcinoma cells, a neoplastic trophoblast cell line which is similar to early human trophoblast cells, were selected to study this question. Cd (20 and 40 μ m ) inhibits JAr cell proliferation, as measured by cell number and BrdU incorporation. Zaldaride (10 and 20 μ m ) inhibits proliferation to a lesser extent; 100 μ m is lethal. To determine if zaldaride alters actions of Cd, zaldaride and Cd are added simultaneously. Zaldaride (20 μ m ) and Cd (20 μ m ) together inhibit proliferation less than Cd alone, thus partially protecting cells. Metallothionein is induced in cells exposed to Cd, while zaldaride does not cause induction of this cellular defense mechanism protein. To determine if Cd inhibits proliferation through alterations of cell cycle, JAr cells enriched for G0/G1 phase were exposed to 20 μ m Cd, 20 μ m zaldaride, or 20 μ m Cd plus 20 μ m zaldaride for 24 hr. Cells remain in G0/G1 following Cd exposure; cells treated with 20 μ m zaldaride progress through S phase and into G2. Zaldaride and Cd together allow JAr cells to leave G1 and enter S phase, partially relieving the cycle block produced by Cd. This study demonstrates a role for calmodulin in mediating the toxicity of Cd in trophoblast cell proliferation.
Conceptual models for partially premixed low-temperature diesel combustion

Abstract Based on recent research within optically accessible engines and combustion chambers, conceptual models for low-temperature combustion (LTC) diesel engines are proposed. To provide a reference to which the LTC conceptual models may be compared, an established conceptual model framework for conventional diesel combustion is first reviewed and updated. Then, based on multiple optical diagnostic observations and homogeneous reactor simulations using detailed chemical kinetic mechanisms, extensions to the existing conceptual model are proposed. The LTC conceptual models are not intended to describe all LTC strategies, but rather a common subset of low-load, single-injection, partially premixed compression ignition conditions that are diluted by exhaust-gas recirculation to oxygen concentrations in the range of 10–15%. The models describe the spray formation, vaporization, mixing, ignition, and pollutant formation and destruction mechanisms that are consistent with experimental observations and modeling predictions for LTC diesel engines. Two separate subcategories are offered for either heavy-duty, large-bore or for light-duty, small-bore engines. Relative to the existing conventional diesel conceptual model, the features of the LTC conceptual models include longer liquid-fuel penetration, an extended ignition delay that allows more premixing of fuel, a more distinct and temporally extended two-stage ignition, more spatially uniform second-stage ignition, reduced and altered soot formation regions, and increased overmixing leading to incomplete combustion.
Ink-Jet Printing on Plain-Papers

The introduction of letter-quality, plain-paper, ink-jet printers such as Hewlett-Packard's DeskJet Printer portents a dramatic change in the 1990's office. The ability of ink-jet to offer low-cost, letter-quality print on plain paper positions this technology squarely along with others used for mainstream office printing. The ability of ink-jet to operate on "plain-papers", coupled with the rising use of paper in office printers, suggests that users will begin to demand office papers that are compatible with this technology. Hewlett-Packard is actively working to understand what customers need from office printers and how these needs impact office papers.© (1989) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Is Computerized Physician Order Entry Use Associated with a Decrease in Hospital Resource Utilization in Hospitals That Care for Children

Despite large hospital costs for implementation and maintenance of Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) for medication safety, little evidence exists to determine if predicted efficiency improvements translate into lower hospital resource utilization for inpatient pediatrics. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between hospital CPOE use and resource utilization per case within children's healthcare. The authors use a retrospective cross-sectional design with linear regression to assess relationships between hospital CPOE use and resource utilization per case. Despite large CPOE costs and financial barriers to adoption, we find that compared to those without CPOE, hospitals with CPOE did not have significantly lower cost per case. Because of the lack of evidence for financial benefit for CPOE use hospitals will likely need other motives to adopt CPOE. This emphasizes the importance of financial incentives for adoption of CPOE within children's healthcare and represents important benchmark data for future comparison.
OXYGEN CONSUMPTION IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN DURING HEART CATHETERIZATION

Oxygen consumption was measured in infants, children, and adolescents during diagnostic heart catheterizations. A total of 825 measurements of oxygen consumption (VO2) was performed in 504 subjects using a semiopen hood system and a paramagnetic oxygen analyzer. In 256 subjects under 3 years of age, body dimensions and heart rate were found to be significant factors for oxygen consumption. The regression equation for both sexes was: VO2/BSA (ml/min.m2) = 3.42.height (cm) - 7.83.weight (kg) + 0.38.HR - 54.1 (r2 = 0.39, SD = 38.7), where BSA is body surface area and HR is heart rate. VO2/BSA was significantly lower in infants less than 3 months of age (133 +/- 33 ml/min.m2) compared with infants of 3-12 months (171 +/- 37 ml/ min.m2; p < 0.01). In 272 children aged 3 years and older and adolescents, gender was a significant factor in oxygen consumption together with BSA and HR. The regression line equation for males was VO2/BSA (ml/ min.m2) = 0.79.HR - 7.4.BSA(m2) + 108.1 (r2 = 0.45, SD = 34.2). The regression line equation for females is VO2/BSA (ml/min.m2) = 0.77.HR - 5.2.BSA(m2) + 106.8 (r2 = 0.43, SD = 34.4). Hematocrit, systemic oxygen saturation, and blood pressure were not significant factors. The predictive value of nomograms for oxygen consumption is limited because of the large interindividual variations not explained by differences in gender, body size, or simple hemodynamic variables. Preferably, oxygen consumption is measured; but if nomograms for oxygen consumption are used for hemodynamic assessment, the wide confidence intervals should be considered.
Concentration of trace metals from sea-water by complexation with 8-hydroxyquinoline and adsorption on C18-bonded silica gel

Abstract A reversed-phase liquid chromatographic technique based on a combination of multielement chelation by 8-hydroxyquinoline with subsequent adsorption on C 18 -bonded silica gel is described for the concentration of Cd, Zn, Cu, Ni, Co, Mn and Fe from sea-water. Enrichment factors of 50–100 are readily obtained following elution of the absorbate with methanol to provide a matrix-free concentrate suitable for graphite-furnace atomic-absorption analysis. Quantitative recovery of these elements from near-shore samples of sea-water is demonstrated and the accuracy and precision of the technique are discussed.
The role of metabolic therapy in treating glioblastoma multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive and nearly uniformly fatal malignancy of the central nervous system. Despite extensive research and clinical trials over the past 50 years, very little progress has been made to significantly alter its lethal prognosis. The current standard of care (SOC) includes maximal surgical resection, radiation therapy and chemotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ), including the selective use of glucocorticoids for symptom control. These same treatments, however, have the potential to create an environment that may actually facilitate tumor growth and survival. Research investigating the unique metabolic needs of tumor cells has led to the proposal of a new metabolic treatment for various cancers including GBMs that may enhance the effectiveness of the SOC. The goal of metabolic cancer therapy is to restrict GBM cells of glucose, their main energy substrate. By recognizing the underlying energy production requirements of cancer cells, newly proposed metabolic therapy is being used as an adjunct to standard GBM therapies. This review will discuss the calorie restricted ketogenic diet (CR-KD) as a promising potential adjunctive metabolic therapy for patients with GBMs. The effectiveness of the CR-KD is based on the “Warburg Effect” of cancer metabolism and the microenvironment of GBM tumors. We will review recent case reports, clinical studies, review articles, and animal model research using the CR-KD and explain the principles of the Warburg Effect as it relates to CR-KD and GBMs.
Natural Convection Mass Transfer Adjacent to Vertical and Downward-Facing Inclined Surfaces

Experimental measurements for natural convection mass transfer adjacent to vertical and downward-facing inclined surfaces were performed using an electrochemical technique. The measurements yielded the time average and instantaneous mass transfer rates for the laminar, transition, and turbulent flow regimes along the test surface. The laminar mass transfer measurements were found to agree with both the analytical and experimental results for both the vertical and downward-facing inclined surfaces. The Rayleigh number marking the onset of the transition from laminar flow conditions depended heavily upon the angle of inclination of the test surface. In the turbulent regime the time average local mass transfer coefficient was correlated by the Rayleigh number to 1/3 power.
Cycles of general war in world history

Scholars who have studied general war tend to agree that there is at least a rough cycle to be discerned. A general war ends with the establishment of a hegemonic power that plays a major role in reducing conflict within the international system. Eventually the hegemon is challenged by a rising power and this challenge leads to another general war in which either the hegemon defends its position, the rising power replaces it, or a third power replaces both. A study of general wars in ten civilizations suggests that in 38 cases examined, the model suggested above was found only three times, twice in Western Civilization. In various combinations, six factors intervened to modify the cycle or prevent its occurrence. The study suggests that the idea of a functional, long‐term cycle culminating in general war may need further examination.
Molecular cloning and characterization of human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 4.

The tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) constitute a family of proteins, of which three members have so far been described. Using the expressed sequence tag sequencing approach, we have identified a novel TIMP-related cDNA fragment and subsequently cloned a fourth human TIMP (TIMP-4) from a human heart cDNA library. The open reading frame encodes a 224-amino acid precursor including a 29-residue secretion signal. The predicted structure of the new protein shares 37% sequence identity with TIMP-1 and 51% identity with TIMP-2 and −3. The protein has a predicted isoelectric point of 7.34. The open reading frame-directed expression of TIMP-4 protein in MDA-MB-435 human breast cancer cells showed metalloproteinase inhibitory activity on reverse zymography. By Northern analysis, only the adult heart showed abundant TIMP-4 transcripts with a 1.4-kilobase predominant transcript band; very low levels of the transcripts were detected in the kidney, placenta, colon, and testes, and no transcripts were detected in the liver, brain, lung, thymus, and spleen. This unique expression pattern suggests that TIMP-4 may function in a tissue-specific fashion in extracellular matrix homeostasis.
The 8-azidoadenine analog of S-benzoyl (3'-dephospho) coenzyme A--a photoaffinity label for acyl CoA:glycine N-acyltransferase.

Abstract S-benzoyl (3′-dephospho-8-azido)-CoA was synthesized by condensing 8-azido-AMP and S-benzoyl-4′-phosphopantetheine. The reagent was shown to be photosensitive. Studies with acyl CoA:glycine N-acyltransferase from beef liver show that the reagent is an alternate substrate and that photolysis of a mixture of reagent and enzyme causes irreversible inhibition. Thus, S-benzoyl (3′-dephospho-8-azido)-CoA is a photogenerated active-site-directed irreversible inhibitor (i.e. a photoaffinity label) for this N-acyltransferase.
Transcriptional regulation and multiple functions of MAO genes

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and MAO B are a crucial pair of isoenzymes, which oxidatively deaminate monoamine neurotransmitters and dietary amines with a production of hydrogen peroxide. These two isoenzymes have different but overlapping substrate and inhibitor specificities. MAO A and MAO B share 70% amino acid sequence identity and show different temporal and spatial expressions in both humans and mice. Abnormal MAO A or MAO B activity has been implicated in numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders. A better understanding of the transcriptional regulation of MAO A and MAO B genes may help explain the differential tissue-specific expression of these two isoenzymes and provide insights into the molecular basis of the disorders associated with MAO dysfunction. This review discusses the recent progress in the transcriptional regulation and multiple functions of MAO A and MAO B genes.
Considerations of How Children Think: Danish Responses to the International Children's Digital Library

The International Children's Digital Library (ICDL) is an online collection of children's books that can be read in their entirety anytime, from anywhere with an Internet connection. Across the literature, it is evident that in digital environments, children are confronted with obstacles not faced by adults, including a limited understanding of metaphors, insufficient reading skills, and child-sized motor skills. This case study of seven Danish children and their educator evaluates their use of the collection, especially the carefully designed search features, and how they translated to an environment in which children encountered a linguistic barrier of access.
Site-specific DNA transesterification by vaccinia topoisomerase: Effects of benzo[α]pyrene-dA, 8-oxoguanine, 8-oxoadenine, and 2-aminopurine modifications

Vaccinia DNA topoisomerase forms a covalent DNA-(3′-phosphotyrosyl)-enzyme intermediate at a specific target site 5′-C+5C+4C+3T+2T+1p↓N-1 in duplex DNA. Here we study the effects of base modifications on the rate and extent of single-turnover DNA transesterification. Chiral trans opened C-10 R and S adducts of benzo[a]pyrene (BP) 7,8-diol 9,10-epoxide were introduced at single N 6-deoxyadenosine (dA) positions within the 3′-G+5G+4G+3A+2A+1T-1A-2 sequence of the nonscissile DNA strand. The R and S BPdA adducts intercalate from the major groove on the 5′ and 3′ sides of the modified base, respectively, and perturb local base stacking. We found that R and S BPdA modifications at +1A reduced the transesterification rate by a factor of 700–1000 without affecting the yield of the covalent topoisomerase-DNA complex. BPdA modifications at +2A reduced the extent of transesterification and elicited rate decrements of 200- and 7000-fold for the S and R diastereomers, respectively. In contrast, BPdA adducts at the -2 position had no effect on the extent of the reaction and relatively little impact on the rate of cleavage. A more subtle probe of major groove contacts entailed substituting each of the purines of the nonscissile strand with its 8-oxo analog. The +3 oxoG modification slowed transesterification 35-fold, whereas other 8-oxo modifications were benign. 8-Oxo substitutions at the -1 position in the scissile strand slowed single-turnover cleavage by a factor of six but had an even greater slowing effect on religation, which resulted in an increase in the cleavage equilibrium constant. 2-Aminopurine at positions +3, +4, or +5 in the nonscissile strand had no effect on transesterification per se but had synergistic effects when combined with 8-oxoA at position -1 in the scissile strand. These findings illuminate the functional interface of vaccinia topoisomerase with the DNA major groove.
The Racial Identification of Biracial Children with One Asian Parent: Evidence from the 1990 Census

This article examines the socioeconomic and demographic correlates that are associated with whether biracial children with an Asian parent are racially identified with their Asian parent or with their non-Asian parent. With data extracted from the 5-percent Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) of the 1990 census, the authors take into account explanatory variables at three levels : the child's characteristics, the parents' characteristics, and the locale's racial composition. The results indicate that the racial identification of biracial children with an Asian parent is to a large extent an arbitrary option within today's prevailing racial classification scheme. The authors find empirical evidence in support of the theoretical proposition that both assimilation and awareness of Asian heritage affect the racial identification of biracial children with an Asian parent
Fragmentation mechanisms of oxidized peptides elucidated by SID, RRKM modeling, and molecular dynamics

The gas-phase fragmentation reactions of singly charged angiotensin II (AngII, DR+VYIHPF) and the ozonolysis products AngII+O (DR+VY*IHPF), AngII+3O (DR+VYIH*PF), and AngII+4O (DR+VY*IH*PF) were studied using SID FT-ICR mass spectrometry, RRKM modeling, and molecular dynamics. Oxidation of Tyr (AngII+O) leads to a low-energy charge-remote selective fragmentation channel resulting in the b4+O fragment ion. Modification of His (AngII+3O and AngII+4O) leads to a series of new selective dissociation channels. For AngII+3O and AngII+4O, the formation of [MH+3O]+−45 and [MH+3O]+−71 are driven by charge-remote processes while it is suggested that b5 and [MH+3O]+−88 fragments are a result of charge-directed reactions. Energy-resolved SID experiments and RRKM modeling provide threshold energies and activation entropies for the lowest energy fragmentation channel for each of the parent ions. Fragmentation of the ozonolysis products was found to be controlled by entropic effects. Mechanisms are proposed for each of the new dissociation pathways based on the energies and entropies of activation and parent ion conformations sampled using molecular dynamics.
Chemical Changes Accompanying Maturation of the Connective Tissue Skeletons of Gorgonian and Antipatharian Corals

The skeletons of 3 gorgonian and 2 antipatharian corals were subjected to quantitative chemical analysis. Protein values ranged from 70.4 to 93.6%; ash from 3.0 to 19.4%; lipid from 0 to 8.4%; carbohydrate from 1.24 to 3.94% and halogen from 4.2 to 24.9% of the dry skeletal weight. Hydroxyproline and phenolic values were 0 to 3.0% and 11.6 to 25.0% of the protein, respectively. Lipid, present in 2 gorgonian species and 1 antipatharian, significantly decreased with age in all three cases. Glucose and galactose accounted for over 90%, and sialic acids for an additional 1 to 10%, of the carbohydrate in the gorgonian skeletons studied; the glucose content of the gorgonian skeleton decreased with age. The antipatharian skeletons possessed no glucose or galactose, but contained significant levels of amino sugars; the presence of chitin is confirmed. In the gorgonians, bromine and iodine, the predominant halogens, increased with skeletal age and were present in nearly equal amounts. Small amounts of bromine were found in the antipatharian skeletons, but very large amounts of iodine were found in older parts of the skeleton. The basal regions of both antipatharian species contained >23% by weight of iodine, the highest content of iodine yet recorded for any organism.
Factors associated with depression among primary alcoholics.

Abstract We evaluated the factors associated with major depressive disorder in an inpatient group of primary male alcoholics. Twenty male primary alcoholics meeting DMS-III criteria for major depression with Hamilton Depression rating scale scores > 15 were matched by age at interview and days since last alcohol use with primary alcoholics not depressed. Clinical measures more frequently found in the depressed group included factors from two main categories: physiologic dependence/withdrawal and alcohol-related cognitive abnormalities. These findings suggest that depression in primary alcoholics seeking treatment is difficult to distinguish from physiological dependence and might best be considered as an organic affective disorder.
Targeting of Histone Acetyltransferase p300 by Cyclopentenone Prostaglandin Δ12-PGJ2 through Covalent Binding to Cys1438

Inhibitors of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) are perceived to treat diseases like cancer, neurodegeneration, and AIDS. On the basis of previous studies, we hypothesized that Cys1438 in the substrate binding site could be targeted by Δ12-prostaglandin J2 (Δ12-PGJ2), a cyclopentenone prostaglandin (CyPG) derived from PGD2. We demonstrate here the ability of CyPGs to inhibit p300 HAT-dependent acetylation of histone H3. A cell-based assay system clearly showed that the α,β-unsaturation in the cyclopentenone ring of Δ12-PGJ2 was crucial for the inhibitory activity, while the 9,10-dihydro-15-deoxy- Δ12,14-PGJ2, which lacks the electrophilic carbon (at carbon 9), was ineffective. Molecular docking studies suggested that Δ12-PGJ2 places the electrophilic carbon in the cyclopentenone ring well within the vicinity of Cys1438 of p300 to form a covalent Michael adduct. Site-directed mutagenesis of the p300 HAT domain, peptide competition assay involving p300 wild type and mutant peptides, followed by mass spectrometric analysis confirmed the covalent interaction of Δ12-PGJ2 with Cys1438. Using biotinylated derivatives of Δ12-PGJ2 and 9,10-dihydro-15-deoxy- Δ12,14-PGJ2, we demonstrate the covalent interaction of Δ12-PGJ2 with the p300 HAT domain, but not the latter. In agreement with the in vitro filter binding assay, CyPGs were also found to inhibit H3 histone acetylation in cell-based assays. In addition, Δ12-PGJ2 also inhibited the acetylation of the HIV-1 Tat by recombinant p300 in in vitro assays. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that Δ12-PGJ2 inhibits p300 through Michael addition, where α,β-unsaturated carbonyl function is absolutely required for the inhibitory activity.
Thermally induced wave-front distortions in laser windows.

A simple analytical expression is given for wave-front distortions and birefringence due to heating in laser windows. (AIP)
In vitro metabolism of polychlorinated biphenyl congeners by beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas) and pilot whale (Globicephala melas) and relationship to cytochrome P450 expression.

Abstract We measured rates of oxidative metabolism of two tetrachlorobiphenyl (TCB) congeners by hepatic microsomes of two marine mammal species, beluga whale and pilot whale, as related to content of selected cytochrome P450 (CYP) forms. Beluga liver microsomes oxidized 3,3′,4,4′-TCB at rates averaging 21 and 5 pmol/min per mg for males and females, respectively, while pilot whale samples oxidized this congener at 0.3 pmol/min per mg or less. However, rates of 3,3′,4,4′-TCB metabolism correlated with immunodetected CYP1A1 protein content in liver microsomes of both species. The CYPIA inhibitor α-naphthoflavone inhibited 3,3′,4,4′-TCB metabolism by 40% in beluga, supporting a role for a cetacean CYP1A as a catalyst of this activity. Major metabolites of 3,3′,4,4′-TCB generated by beluga liver microsomes were 4-OH-3,3′,4′,5-TCB and 5-OH-3,3′,4,4′-TCB (98% of total), similar to metabolites formed by other species CYP1A1, and suggesting a 4,5-epoxide-TCB intermediate. Liver microsomes of both species metabolized 2,2′,5,5′-TCB at rates of 0.2–1.5 pmol/min per mg. Both species also expressed microsomal proteins cross-reactive with antibodies raised against some mammalian CYP2Bs (rabbit; dog), but not others (rat; scup). Whether CYP2B homologues occur and function in cetaceans is uncertain. This study demonstrates that PCBs are metabolized to aqueous-soluble products by cetacean liver enzymes, and that in beluga, rates of metabolism of 3,3′,4,4′-TCB are substantially greater than those of 2,2′,5,5′-TCB. These directly measured rates generally support the view that PCB metabolism plays a role in shaping the distribution patterns of PCB residues found in cetacean tissue.
Species differences in stimulation of intestinal and hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase enzymes

Abstract The effect of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of phenobarbital (PB) or 3-methylchol-anthrene (3-MC) on some mixed-function oxidase (MFO) enzymes was studied in small intestine and liver of male rats, mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. PB treatment enhanced intestinal and 7-ethoxycoumarin deethylase activities in the mouse and rat, whereas benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase (AHH) activity was increased only in the mouse. Ethylmorphine demethylase and aniline hydroxylase activities in small intestine were not stimulated by PB in any species. Administration of 3-MC increased the activity of intestinal AHH in rat, mouse and guinea pig, but intestinal 7-ethoxycoumarin deethylase activity was elevated only in the rat. The guinea pig and mouse intestinal ethoxycoumarin deethylase activity was inhibited by 3-MC treatment. None of the enzymes tested in rabbit intestine was induced by PB or 3-MC. The hepatic activities of ethylmorphine demethylase, aniline hydroxylase, 7-ethoxycoumarin deethylase and AHH, and the cytochrome P-450 content were increased by PB in all species. In contrast, 3-MC enhanced hepatic aniline hydroxylase and AHH activities in rats, mice and guinea pigs, and hepatic 7-ethoxycoumarin deethylase activity in mice and rats. In rabbits, these hepatic enzymes were inhibited by 3-MC pretreatment. The hepatic cytochrome P-450 absorption spectra was shifted to 448 nm in all species. These results suggest that there are differences in induction of intestinal and hepatic MFO enzymes which are influenced by the type of inducing agent, substrate and animal species used.
A comparison of tailpipe, dilution tunnel, and wind tunnel data in measuring motor vehicle PM.

ABSTRACT Comparison between particle size distributions recorded directly at the tailpipes of both diesel and gasoline vehicles and measurements made using a conventional dilution tunnel reveals two problems incurred when using the latter method for studying particle number emissions. One is the potential for particulate matter (PM) artifacts originating from hydrocarbon material stored in the transfer hose connecting the tailpipe to the dilution tunnel, and the other is the particle coagulation (as well as condensation and chemical changes) that occurs during the transport. Both are potentially generic to current PM emissions measurement practices. The artifacts typically occur as a nanoparticle mode (10–30 nm) that is 2–4 orders of magnitude larger than what is present in the vehicle exhaust and can easily be mistaken for a similar mode that can arise from the nucleation of hydrocarbon or SO4 2-components in the exhaust under appropriate dilution rates. Wind tunnel measurements are in good agreement wit...
Percutaneous Fixation of Proximal Humerus Fractures

Closed reduction and percutaneous fixation is a viable treatment option for displaced two-part, three-part, and valgus-impacted four-part proximal humerus fractures. Despite biomechanical studies demonstrating inferior stability compared with plate and intramedullary nail constructs, percutaneous fixation offers a minimally invasive approach with potential clinical advantages. Decreased scarring, improved cosmesis, and lower rates of avascular necrosis have been reported. Potential complications include pin migration, infection, avascular necrosis, neurovascular injury, and malunion. Clinical outcomes have been comparable with conventional techniques, with studies reporting approximately 70% good to excellent results.
Effect of Bi on the Interfacial Reaction between Sn-3.7Ag-xBi Solders and Cu

It was reported in previous studies that the addition of Bi could improve the wettability and reduce the melting temperature of Sn-Ag solders. This work investigates the effect of Bi on the interfacial reaction between Sn-Ag-xBi solders and the Cu substrate reflowed at 250°C for different times and thermally aged at 150°C for different durations. Five types of Sn-Ag-based solders, Sn-3.7Ag-xBi (x = 0 wt.% to 4 wt.%), were used in this study. The microstructure of the interfacial Cu-Sn intermetallic compound (IMC) layers between the solders and the Cu substrate was studied, and the thickness of the Cu-Sn IMCs in different solder/Cu systems has been measured. It was found that the thickness of the Cu-Sn IMC layer decreased with increasing amount of Bi in both the reflow and thermally aged condition. The effect of Bi addition on the interfacial reaction between the solder and the Cu substrate was discussed based on the experimental results.
Evidence for superantigen involvement in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus aetiology

Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is a T-cell-mediated autoimmune disease whose onset is believed to be triggered by unknown environmental factors acting on a predisposing genetic background. Islet-infiltrating T (IIT) cells from two IDDM patients, who had died at the onset of the disease from brain swelling as a complication of ketoacidosis, were analysed. The results provided evidence for the involvement of a pancreatic islet cell membrane-bound superantigen as a diabetes aetiopathogenetic factor. There was a selective expansion of a T-cell receptor (TCR) variable segment of the beta-chain (V beta 7) in these IIT cells in association with unselected V alpha-chain segments; extensive junctional diversity of the TCR V beta 7 chains; and evidence of positive selection, after exposure to diabetic islet cell membrane preparations, of V beta 7+ T-cell clones among peripheral blood lymphocytes from non-diabetic individuals.
A framework for strategic planning in multinational corporations

Abstract In this article the author describes how the adaptation and integration requirements of several corporations within the multinational environment were analyzed. A pattern of planning tasks for multinationals is then described which simplified planning while utilizing further task specialization.
A kinetic theory of nucleation in dilute solid solutions; Application to the precipitation of carbon and nitrogen in α-iron

Abstract A kinetic theory of nucleation and growth of precipitate particles in solid solutions is derived. This theory, which is applicable at low solute concentration and rather low solute-solute binding energy, is obtained by application of equilibrium conditions to the reversible chemical rate equations of cluster formation. The equilibrium approximation permits sufficient cancellation of terms in the equations so that the remaining equations are integrable. Computer solutions for a variety of parameters of the kinetic equations were used to check the range of validity of the approximation necessary to obtain the analytic expression. The analytic expression describes the experimentally observed time dependence of the precipitation of carbon and nitrogen in α-iron. The analytic theory also predicts an average binding energy of precipitate atoms in a cluster which is in reasonable agreement with experimentally derived carbon-carbon and nitrogen-nitrogen binding energies in iron. The size of the fundamental precipitate nucleus, as well as the distribution of sizes of precipitate particles, is also predicted, but no experiments exist to check these predictions.