cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Historical Trends in Moscow and Leningrad Crime

Moscow, Leningrad, and Kiev, the major Soviet cities, presently have lower rates of criminality than other urban areas in the USSR,1 thus defying the generally observed correlation between the level of urbanization and the crime rate.2 The Soviet Union has not always been the exception to this internationally observed phenomenon, for in the period directly after the 1917 revolution these three cities had exceedingly high rates of criminality.3 The crime trends of all three major Soviet cities is not coincidental but, as the author shows, this change is a direct result of government policies intended to make these urban areas showcases of the Soviet state. As a result of this governmental decision, population policies have been introduced in the last fifty years of the Soviet period to insure that only the most "desirable individuals" reside in major urban centers. Consequently, the favored cities have experienced a significant decline in criminality, while the regions not favored by government population policies have suffered measurable increases in criminality. This article will focus on the changes that have occurred in the criminality of the major urban centers of the USSR, in particular, Moscow and Leningrad, in the years since the 1917 revolution. The crime trends of Moscow have been documented in a recent Soviet collection (Comparative Criminological Research in Moscow in 1923 and 1968-1969),4 but evidence also exists from other criminological sources to assert that such a dramatic transformation has occurred in the level of crime of all major Soviet cities.
Azerbaijan since Independence. By Svante Cornell. (Armonk, NY: M. E. Sharpe, 2010. Pp. xxix, 483. $39.95.)

Since the collapse of the former Soviet Union, the body of English‐language research on the Caucasus region and Azerbaijan has grown with the increased political and economic significance of the re...
Erythropoietin mediates terminal granulocytic differentiation of committed myeloid cells with ectopic erythropoietin receptor expression.

: Objectives: The precise role of hematopoietic cytokine/cytokine receptor interactions in lineage-restricted hematopoietic differentiation giving rise to mature blood cells of diverse function is incompletely defined. To study lineage-specific effects of cytokines during terminal hematopoietic differentiation, we examined the ability of erythropoietin (Epo) to mediate terminal granulocytic differentiation and induction of myeloid gene expression in committed myeloid cells, engineered to ectopically express Epo receptor (EpoR). Methods: A cell culture model for granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-mediated granulocytic differentiation was used. EpoR was introduced by retrovirus-mediated gene transfer into multipotential, hematopoietic murine cell line EML, from which GM-CSF-responsive, promyelocytic EPRO cells were generated. In EPRO cells ectopically expressing EpoR, we examined the ability of Epo to mediate granulocytic differentiation and determined whether Epo-mediated neutrophil differentiation is associated with a pattern of myeloid gene expression comparable to that induced by GM-CSF. Results: Studies of EpoR function in myeloid EPRO cells revealed that Epo/EpoR interaction can mediate terminal granulocytic differentiation of committed myeloid cells. In EPRO cells expressing EpoR, Epo-mediated neutrophil differentiation was associated with surface CD11b/CD18 (Mac-1) expression and induction of mRNA expression of specific myeloid genes including lactoferrin, gelatinase and C/EBPe, in a manner similar to GM-CSF-mediated differentiation. Conclusions: These results indicate that Epo can deliver differentiative signals along a non-erythroid lineage, providing evidence for interchangeable cytokine receptor signals that mediate terminal differentiation of committed myeloid cells.
Leader selection and network assembly for controllability of leader-follower networks

In this paper, we study leader selection and network assembly for controllability of networked systems using tools from graph theory. Each agent in the network acts in a decentralized fashion by updating its state in accordance with a nearest-neighbor averaging rule. In order to control the system, external control inputs are injected into the dedicated leader nodes, and their influence is propagated throughout the network. In this paper, we devise a topological leader selection scheme and a network assembly scheme, both achieving complete controllability by utilizing the invariance of system controllability to the links between the leaders.
High-Tc superconductivity by pairing of resonant delocalized holes

Abstract When CuO2 sheets in the (123)- or (214)-compounds are oxidized, the holes would delocalize to a limited extent. The resonant square state would form from three electrons with parallel spins located on a square of four Cu atoms. This state is not susceptible to phonon scattering. There is antiferromagnetic pairing between these states with opposite spins. The theoretical results agree quite well with the experimental data.
Theoretical Modeling of the Diffuse Emission of Gamma Rays from Extreme Regions of Star Formation: The Case of ARP 220

Our current understanding of ultraluminous infrared galaxies suggest that they are recent galaxy mergers in which much of the gas in the former spiral disks, particularly that located at distances less than 5 kpc from each of the pre-merger nuclei, has fallen into a common center, triggering a huge starburst phenomenon. This large nuclear concentration of molecular gas has been detected by many groups, and estimates of molecular mass and density have been made. Not surprisingly, these estimates were found to be orders of magnitude larger than the corresponding values found in our Galaxy. In this paper, a self-consistent model of the high energy emission of the super-starburst galaxy Arp 220 is presented. The model also provides an estimate of the radio emission from each of the components of the central region of the galaxy (western and eastern extreme starbursts, and molecular disk). The predicted radio spectrum is found as a result of the synchrotron and free-free emission, and absorption, of the primary and secondary steady population of electrons and positrons. The latter is output of charged pion decay and knock-on leptonic production, subject to a full set of losses in the interstellar medium. The resulting radio spectrum is inmore » agreement with sub-arcsec radio observations, what allows to estimate the magnetic field. In addition, the FIR emission is modeled with dust emissivity, and the computed FIR photon density is used as a target for inverse Compton process as well as to give account of losses in the {gamma}-ray scape. Bremsstrahlung emission and neutral pion decay are also computed, and the {gamma}-ray spectrum is finally predicted. Future possible observations with GLAST, and the ground based Cherenkov telescopes are discussed.« less
Radiopaque Contrast Media: The Role of the Pharmacist

Radiopaque contrast media (ROCM) are diagnostic drugs used for the enhancement of radiographic (x-ray) examinations. Although these agents have been used extensively for several years, pharmacist involvement with this category of drugs, to date, has been minimal. This article outlines several aspects of contrast media use in which pharmacists can or should become actively involved. Included in this discussion are possible roles of the pharmacist in decisions regarding respective product efficacy and use; adverse reaction prevention, reporting, monitoring, and treatment; and the evaluation of potential contrast media-drug or contrast media-laboratory test interactions. Pharmacist involvement associated with the use of traditional drugs in the performance of radiographic examinations and with technological advancements in radiology are also addressed. The overall magnitude of drug activity encountered in a radiology department suggests a needed and important role for pharmacists interested in this area.
Characterization and Distribution of Selenite Reduction Products in Cultures of the Marine Yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa-13B

Selenite reduction by fungi is a widespread and ecologically significant phenomenon, but previous studies of fungal isolates have not fully characterized the reduction products. We investigated selenite reduction and the distribution of Se in cultures of the marine yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa-13B. Strain 13B reduced a substantial amount of selenite to form amorphous elemental selenium particles. Minor volatilization was also observed. Under the aerobic experimental conditions, intact 13B cultures were required for substantial distribution to the solid and volatile phases. This is the first study to report comprehensive microscopic image data and spectroscopic analyses confirming the accumulation of amorphous Se0 particles external and internal to cells of a Rhodotorula strain.
Cell structure and asexual reproduction in Lagynion delicatulum (Stylococcaceae, Chrysophyceae)

Lagynion delicatulum Skuja is a first record for New Zealand freshwaters. Individual vegetative cells in nature and culture were sessile, aflagellate, and surrounded by a hyaline lorica lacking mineral deposits. Cells were uninucleate, had one or two chloroplasts with girdle lamellae and ring nucleoids, several mitochondria, and two to four basal-body-like centrioles. Cell division was followed by the release of one or both progeny from the parent lorica as biflagellate zoospores without eyespots. The anterior flagellum bore a tomentum of fine fibrils and two balanced rows of tripartite tubular hairs. The posterior flagellum was short, scarcely visible with light microscopy. A paraflagellar rod and paraflagellar vanes were associated with its axoneme. The flagellar apparatus consisted of two basal bodies and three microtubular roots. The coplanar basal bodies diverged from each other at an angle of approximately 130°. Simple transitional helices were present. No root that could be identified with the R3 root of other stramenopiles was present. Settling zoospores produced a few long pseudopods, and lost flagella by abscission. Cells forming loricas had a circumferential array of numerous short pseudopodia. Similarities in morphology and reproduction suggest that at least those Stylococcaceae with apparently uniflagellate swarmers form a monophyletic group. Flagellar apparatus similarities between Lagynion and Hibberdia suggest a relationship, but this is not supported by previously-published phylogenies reconstructed from molecular sequences. Convergent evolution of flagellar apparatus architecture is a possibility.
Sodium regulation of α2-adrenoreceptors in DAHL rats

Abstract Sodium regulation of α2-adrenoreceptors was investigated in inbred salt-sensitive (S) and inbred salt-resistant (R) rats fed a high or low salt diet. The systolic blood pressure was higher in S rats than in R rats, and this difference was obviously greater on a high salt diet. In rats fed a low or high salt diet, S rats had higher α2-adrenoreceptor density in the kidneys compared with R rats as measured by [3H]yohimbine binding and Scatchard analysis. The affinity of the receptors in the kidney for the antagonist, yohimbine, was nearly the same in these two strains either on a low or high salt diet. In the brain, the affinities or the numbers of receptors were not significantly different whether these two strains were fed a low or high salt diet. Inclusion of NaCl up to 80 mM in the assay medium did not alter the in vitro binding of [3H]yohimbine in the kidney or brain. On the other hand, inclusion of NaCl in the assay medium reduced the ability of epinephrine in competing with [3H]yohimbine for the receptor sites in the kidney and in the brain, and this effect of NaCl was the same in a given tissue between S and R rats, whether they were fed a low or high salt diet. These results suggest that: (1) in the kidneys, the receptor density and not the receptor affinity was different between S and R strains whether they were fed a low or high salt diet; (2) in the brain, the receptor density and affinity were the same between S and R rats regardless of the diet (low or high salt), indicating that the sodium salt diet modulates the peripheral but not the central α2-adrenoreceptors; and this modulatory effect was observed only in S rats; (3) Na+ was able to reduce the affinity of the agonist (epinephrine) for the receptors in both S and R rats, and this effect of Na+ on central and peripheral α2-adrenoreceptors was similar in prehypertensive rats and rats with salt-induced hypertension; and (4) the resistance of R rats to salt-induced hypertension was not due to the absence of Na+ binding component involved in the regulation of α2-adrenoreceptor-adenylate cyclase complex.
Atomic layer deposition of transition metals

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a process for depositing highly uniform and conformal thin films by alternating exposures of a surface to vapours of two chemical reactants. ALD processes have been successfully demonstrated for many metal compounds, but for only very few pure metals. Here we demonstrate processes for the ALD of transition metals including copper, cobalt, iron and nickel. Homoleptic N,N'-dialkylacetamidinato metal compounds and molecular hydrogen gas were used as the reactants. Their surface reactions were found to be complementary and self-limiting, thus providing highly uniform thicknesses and conformal coating of long, narrow holes. We propose that these ALD layers grow by a hydrogenation mechanism that should also operate during the ALD of many other metals. The use of water vapour in place of hydrogen gas gives highly uniform, conformal films of metal oxides, including lanthanum oxide. These processes should permit the improved production of many devices for which the ALD process has previously not been applicable.
Spontaneous room temperature extrusion of Pb nano-whiskers from leaded brass surfaces

We report that lightly abrading the surface of a commercial leaded brass results in the room temperature spontaneous growth of Pb whiskers and hillocks. The aspect ratios and submicron diameters of the whiskers that form render them easily dispersible in the atmosphere, with potentially serious health effects, especially for people that deal with leaded brass on a daily basis.
Hexokinase Isoforms and Glucose Metabolism in Adult and Neonatal Cardiac Myocytes

Localization of hexokinase (HK) isoforms to the cytoplasm or mitochondria controls their anabolic (glycogen synthesis) and catabolic (glycolysis) activities. In this study, we compared the effects of HKI and HKII in isolated adult (ARVM) and neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM) using a set of novel genetically-encoded optical imaging tools to track, in real-time, the subcellular distributions of HKI and HKII, as well as the functional consequences on glucose utilization. We show that HKII, the predominant isoform in ARVM, dynamically distributes between the mitochondria and cytoplasm. Removal of extracellular glucose displaces HKII from mitochondria in ARVM, but not in NRVM, whereas iodoacetate (IAA) displaces HKII in both. HKI, the predominant isoform in NRVM, always remains bound to mitochondria when overexpressed in either AVRM and NRVM, and is not displaced by the above interventions. In ARVM, overexpression of HKI, but not HKII, increased glycolytic activity. In NVRM, knock-down of HKI, but not HKII, decreased glycolytic activity. Swapping the N terminus between HKI and HKII, as well as specific mutations, revealed that the N terminus of HKI is necessary, but not sufficient, for high affinity mitochondrial binding to promote glycolysis. In conclusion, HKI and HKII play major roles in defining the different metabolic profiles of ARVM and NRVM, accounting for the markedly increased glycolytic activity of NRVM.
Function of the t-SNARE SNAP-23 and secretory carrier membrane proteins (SCAMPs) in exocytosis in mast cells

Mast cells acutely respond to allergens and other stimuli by releasing accumulated internal stores of inflammatory mediators and other secretory products by "compound" exocytosis involving massive granule-to-plasma membrane and granule-to-granule fusion. Our recent findings implicate the SNAP receptor (SNARE) protein SNAP-23 and secretory carrier membrane protein 2 (SCAMP2) as regulators of this process. We summarize evidence indicating that stimulus-induced relocation of SNAP-23 from foci in the plasma membrane to putative sites of membrane fusion both at the cell surface and intracellularly between granules is an essential link in coupling stimulation to exocytosis. We also review recent findings showing that the candidate exocytotic SNAREs SNAP-23 and syntaxin 4 colocalize with SCAMPs, especially SCAMP2, and that SCAMP2 is likely to be a partner in the compound exocytotic process.
Automobile‐induced obstruction of the intrathoracic caudal vena cava in a dog

A two-year-old labrador retriever was examined after a year's history of persistent ascites and exercise intolerance that began shortly after the dog was struck by an automobile. Contrast venography showed tortuosity of the intrathoracic caudal vena cava with partial obstruction caused by kinking of the vessel. Surgical resection of a fibrous connective band that was found to be tethering the intrathoracic vena cava ventrally, creating a partial obstruction, was performed. A hypothesis of the aetiology of this phenomenon is presented.
Stability of Dendrites in Cortical Barrels of C57BL/6N Mice Between 4 and 45 Months

Qualitative and quantitative studies of dendritic parameters were conducted on Golgi-impregnated layer IV spiny stellate neurons in the posteromedial barrel subfield (PMBSF) of somatosensory cortex of the C57B1/6N mouse. Three mice each, at 4, 12, 22, 26, 30, 36 and 45 months of age were studied. No qualitative changes were observed among animals of different ages. The quantitative data indicated that dendritic length and numbers of segments remained unchanged over all ages studied.
A Kinetic Step Involving Loop 1 in Smooth Muscle may Dictate Isoform Specific Differences in ADP Release

The actin sliding velocity and ADP release rates in smooth muscle myosin are modulated by the make-up of a flexible surface loop spanning the active site known as loop 1. There are only two motor domain isoforms of smooth muscle myosin and they differ in the presence (SM-B) or absence (SM-A) of a seven amino acid insert (QGPSFSY) in this loop. The presence of this insert leads to a two-fold increase in both actin sliding velocity and ADP release, although the mechanism for this difference is unknown. To investigate the role of this insert in functional differences between the SM-B and SM-A isoforms of smooth muscle myosin we have inserted a single tryptophan residue into loop 1 of both isoforms. The dynamics of loop 1 have been correlated with the kinetics of ADP release using a combination of steady-state fluorescence measurements (i.e., tryptophan emission, FRET, and acrylamide quenching) and stopped-flow kinetics. Using this approach we have already shown that the long loop SM-B isoform displays an extra step in its ADP release pathway that has not been previously observed. Here, we show that the additional transition seen in the long loop SM-B isoform is not observed in the short loop SM-A isoform upon ADP release. Furthermore, the final ADP release step is twice as slow in the short loop SM-A isoform, suggesting that the unique transition observed in the presence of the insert alters loop 1 dynamics in a way as to facilitate ADP release. This alteration of ADP release constitutes a simple and fundamental way to tune the activity of the motor at the molecular level and mechanical function at the physiological level in smooth muscle.
Comparison of two methods of PCNB application for control of Rhizoctonia infection of potatoes

A broadcast application of PCNB (Terraclor) resulted in a reasonably uniform distribution of the chemical in the soil with the concentration decreasing in a linear fashion with increasing depth in the soil profile. A banded application resuluted in a considerably higher chemical concentration at the 4–6 inch depth than at the 0–2 or the 2–4 inch depths. The problem of the lack of uniformity of chemical distribution could probably be solved by altering nozzle placement and size and allow use of the band method of application to minimize grower cost. More complete disking in the case of the broadcast treatment would probably result in a relatively uniform distribution of the chemical but at higher cost to the grower. PCNB application rates of 10, 15 and 25 lbs per acre broadcast and 71/2, 10 and 121/2 lbs per acre in a band significantly reduced the severity ofRhizoctonia infection of Russet Burbank potatoes but did not increase potato yields significantly.
Why an Alternative to Blood Transfusion

Allogeneic blood transfusions have been associated with several risks and complications and with worse outcomes in a substantial number of patient populations and clinical scenarios. Allogeneic blood is costly and difficult to procure, transport, and store. Global and local shortages are imminent. Alternatives to transfusion provide many advantages, and their use is likely to improve outcomes as safer and more effective agents are developed.
Structured Shuffles and the Josephus Problem

The Australian Shuffle consists of placing a deck of cards onto a table according to this rule: put the top card on the table, the next card on the bottom of the deck, and repeat until all the cards have been placed on the table. A natural question is “Where was the very last card placed located in the original deck?” Card trick magicians have known empirically for years that the fortieth card from the top of a standard fifty-two card deck is the final card placed by this shuffle. The moniker “Australian” comes from putting every other card “Down Under”. We develop a formula for the general case of N cards, and then extend that generalization further to cases involving the discard of k cards before or after putting one on the bottom of the deck. Finally, we discuss the connection of the Australian Shuffle and its generalizations to the famous Josephus problem.
SU‐FF‐T‐205: Effects of Intra‐Fraction Motion On IMRT Treatment with Segments of Few Monitor Units

Introduction: Intra‐fraction motion can affect the delivered dose distribution in radiotherapy. This is a concern in IMRT because of potential interplay between the delivered fluence pattern and the patient's breathing pattern. A widely applied approach to model organ motion is the use of a probability density function (pdf) in IMRT‐optimization. We assess if breathing compromises treatment with IMRT segments delivering only few monitor units (MU), where the delivery time of the segments will be of the order of the breathing period. Further, we assess the limitation of IMRT‐optimization based on pdfs for incorporating organ motion in treatment planning.Methods:A motor‐driven platform, which moves sinusoidally with a user‐specified amplitude and a period of 4s for tumor motion was used. The measurements were performed for motion amplitude of 4cm in 4×4cm2–10×10cm2 open fields and dose‐rate of 500MUmin−1. The MUs delivered were 8 to 183MUs, corresponding to delivery times of 1s to 22s. The measurements were repeated for ten different initial phases. Results: The delivered dose to a moving target varies with initial phase and with segment delivery time. For very long segment times the delivered dose has a 1–2% spread with the initial phase. Therefore, over 30 fractions, the average dose delivered to the moving tumor will converge to the mean dose delivered over the breathing‐period. For short delivery times, the delivered dose varies significantly with the initial phase. This is because the delivered dose becomes dependent on non‐uniform dose and penumbra effects. Conclusion: Motion can compromise an IMRT treatment if the segment delivery time (1–12s) is of the order of the breathing period and motion occurs in a region of non‐uniform dose. Since the delivered dose also depends strongly on the initial phase, for short delivery times, care is needed when modeling organ motion as a pdf in IMRT optimization.
Metabolic disposition of [131I] iodoinsulin within the rat diaphragm.

Abstract 1. 1. The rate of uptake and release of physiological levels of biologically active [131I]iodoinsulin from subcellular components of isolated intact rat diaphragm has been studied. The 100 000 × g supernatant solution contained the largest amount of radioactivity, of which more than 70% was degraded insulin. Of the particulate fractions the cell debris sedimenting at 700 × g incorporated 5 times the radioactivity of the mitochondria and 25 times that of the microsomes. 2. 2. The incorporation of radioactivtiy from [131I]iodoinsulin into only one fraction of those studied was significantly suppressed by the addition of unlabeled insulin. This was the fraction of the 100 000 × g supernatant precipitable with 60% saturated (NH4)2SO4. Sephadex G-50 gel filtration of the latter fraction demonstrated components of higher molecular weight than insulin, suggesting the presence of an insulin-specific binding component in the fraction. 3. 3. Two insulin-degrading enzymes were found in the subfractioned diaphragm. one in the 100 000 × g supernatant solution and a second in the cell debris fraction. The supernatant enzyme was 7–8 times more active than the debris enzyme at physiological concentrations of insulin. Both enzymes were active after dialysis in the absence of added GSH. These characteristics and the evidence given in (1) above suggest that the enzymes are distinct from GSH-insulin transhydrogenase and that the degradation of insulin is a accomplished by proteolysis.
Simplified setup for high-resolution spectroscopy that uses ultrashort pulses

Using a broadband femtosecond laser and a simple optical setup, we demonstrate narrow-bandwidth-tunable excitation of vibrational modes in CCl4 and CHBr3 liquids. The resolution obtained is 80 times higher than the laser bandwidth. A pair of time-shifted, linearly chirped pulses is created by use of a high-order dispersion-compensated prism–interferometer setup. We use this pulse pair to selectively excite Raman-active transitions. Our setup represents a significant simplification with improved resolution, of previous approaches to the use of ultrashort pulses for chemically selective spectroscopy.
Comparative Health Risks of Energy Production

The presentation will address the nature of public and occupational health risks associated with each of the current energy technology alternatives. Technologies including coal, nuclear, and solar will be considered in terms of health impacts per equivalent amount of energy produced. The discussion will summarize the impacts specific to each technology and identify those aspects of the various fuel cycles that are of greatest concern. Contrasts will be drawn between various technological alternatives in order to put the risks associated with the various technologies into a common perspective.
The effect of N6-2'-O-dibutyryl-adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate on rat liver calciferol 25-hydroxylase.

Abstract Liver calciferol 25-hydroxylase activity of vitamin-D deficient rats was enhanced 24 hours following the intravenous injection of N 6 -2′-O-dibutyryl adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate. Sodium butyrate administered in the same way had no effect on this enzyme system. Administration of actinomycin D with N 6 -2′-O-dibutyryl adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate abolished the stimulatory effect of the cyclic nucleotide. Direct addition to the incubation medium of adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate or of its dibutyryl derivative did not influence the hepatic conversion of cholecalciferol to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol. These results suggest a possible role for the cyclic nucleotide in the regulation of this enzyme system.
Research note: T-cell activity of White Leghorn chickens selected for high and low antibody responses to sheep erythrocytes.

Abstract Mitogen responses of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and the cell cycle analysis of T-cells were examined for lines of chickens selected for high (HA) and low (LA) antibody response to SRBC. At 6 wk of age, within each line, blood samples and thymic tissue were collected from chicks representing the B13B13, B13B21, B21B13, and B21B21 genotypes. Although no influence of Ea-B haplotype on T-cell activity was detected in either line, there were line differences in phytohemagglutinin-M (PHA-M) and concanavalin A (Con A) mitogen responses and the percentage G0/G1 and S phase T-cells. The HA PBL had greater in vitro PHA-M and Con A responses, and the cell cycle analysis of T-cells revealed a greater percentage of cells in S phase for Line HA chicks than for LA chicks. There were significantly more resting cells in the G0/G1 phase of LA than HA chicks. Although there was no Ea-B haplotype effect observed on T-cells from either line, generalized selection for high or low antibody response did result in divergent T-cell activity.
An Improved and Scalable Process for Celecoxib: A Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitor§

An improved, scalable and commercially viable process is developed for an active pharmaceutical ingredient, celecoxib.
The NHLBI model: A 25 year history

Although newer techniques and procedures have been developed, many of the clinical trial design and monitoring concepts used today in the NHLBI were implemented 25 years ago. Among these are the organizational structure of multicentre trials and the use of an independent data monitoring committee. Examples of data monitoring committee discussions and decisions are provided.
SU(2) calorons and magnetic monopoles

We investigate the self-dual Yang-Mills gauge configurations on R{sup 3}{times}S{sup 1} when the gauge symmetry SU(2) is broken to U(1) by the Wilson loop. We construct the explicit field configuration for a single instanton by the Nahm method and show that an instanton is composed of two self-dual monopoles of opposite magnetic charge. We normalize the moduli space metric of an instanton and study various limits of the field configuration and its moduli space metric. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
Marketing Dissertations: Profiling the Successful Thesis Candidate:

This article reports results of a field study undertaken with 34 marketing doctoral program advisors. The respondents were contacted through the mail and asked to identify the differentiating chara...
Information structure and discourse stance in a monologic “public speaking” register of Japanese

Abstract Previous research on register variation has focused on differences between written and spoken registers, but there has been less systematic attention to how situational contexts create variation within these categories. This article draws on several data sources to delineate the linguistic features which characterize monologic public speaking as a distinct register of spoken Japanese. The data include congratulatory speeches given at wedding receptions, officers’ reports at organizational meetings, and a comparison of conversation and officers’ reports for three individual speakers. The linguistic variables that are analyzed include information structuring at the clause and sentence level (complex NPs with clausal modifiers and the use of conjunctive forms to link clauses) and markers of discourse stance (honorifics, non-canonical word order, sentence-final particles, and hedges). In comparison with conversation, monologic public discourse involves relatively high frequencies of both complex NPs and the linking of clauses with conjunctions. Discourse markers which index deference and the presentation of a public social persona are common in public speaking, whereas those which involve more personal expressions of affective stance are rare. This distribution of linguistic features distinguishes public speaking from both conversational Japanese and written, expository prose.
Kinetics of the reaction between methane and iodine from 830 to 1150 K in the presence and absence of oxygen

The formation of methyl iodide was determined by radiochemical methods and by massspectroscopic analyses in mixtures of Ar–CH4–I2 and ArCH4I2O2, heated by a reflected shock wave to temperatures of 830–1150 K. The rate of formation of CH3I was consistent with the chain mechanism where the indicated rate constant for reaction between I and CH4 is given by k2(cm3/mol · s) = 1014.17 exp(−32.9 ± 0.8 kcal/mol/RT). No effect on the reaction rate by the presence of O2 was detected. However, in one experiment at 1097 K with 3.86 mol % O2 the formation of CH2O was indicated by the mass-spectroscopic analysis, presumably from the reaction of O2 with CH3.
Dolomitization of the Waulsortian Limestone (Lower Carboniferous) in the Irish Midlands

The Waulsortian Limestone (Lower Carboniferous) of the southern Irish Midlands is dolomitized pervasively over a much larger region than previous studies have documented. This study indicates a complex, multistage, multiple fluid history for regional dolomitization. Partially and completely dolomitized sections of Waulsortian Limestones are characterized by finely crystalline (0·01–0·3 mm) planar dolomite. Planar replacive dolomite is commonly followed by coarse (≥0·5 mm) nonplanar replacive dolomite, and pervasive void-filling saddle dolomite cement is frequently associated with Zn–Pb mineralization. Planar dolomite has average δ18O and δ13C values (‰ PDB) of –4·8 and 3·9 respectively. These are lower oxygen and slightly higher carbon isotope values than averages for marine limestones in the Waulsortian (δ18O=–2·2, δ13C=3·7). Mean C and O isotope values of planar replacive dolomite are also distinct from those of nonplanar and saddle dolomite cement (–7·0 and 3·3; –7·4 and 2·4 respectively). Fluid inclusions indicate a complex history involving at least three chemically and thermally distinct fluids during dolomite cementation. The petrography and geochemistry of planar dolomites are consistent with an early diagenetic origin, possibly in equilibrium with modified Carboniferous sea water. Where the Waulsortian was exposed to hydrothermal fluids (70–280 °C), planar dolomite underwent a neomorphic recrystallization to a coarser crystalline, planar and nonplanar dolomite characterized by lower δ18O values. Void-filling dolomite cement is isotopically similar to nonplanar, replacive dolomite and reflects a similar origin from hydrothermal fluids. This history of multiple stages of dolomitization is significantly more complex than earlier models proposed for the Irish Midlands and provides a framework upon which to test competing models of regional vs. localized fluid flow.
Using Topic Order To Reinforce Student Algebra Skills in a Community College Introductory Chemistry Course

This article describes the impact of starting with gases in an introductory chemistry course at a community college. Students in the author’s class frequently are very weak in algebra skills, and this has a cumulative impact over time that culminates in student struggles when moles and reaction stoichiometry are discussed. The rationale behind starting with gases was that the topic has a relatively small content load while giving students the opportunity to manipulate and apply algebraic equations. The author observed improved student performance, particularly when discussing moles and stoichiometry.
Analysis of intact protein isoforms by mass spectrometry

The diverse proteome of an organism arises from such events as single nucleotide substitutions at the DNA level, different RNA processing, and dynamic enzymatic post-translational modifications. This minireview focuses on the measurement of intact proteins to describe the diversity found in proteomes. The field of biological mass spectrometry has steadily advanced, enabling improvements in the characterization of single proteins to proteins derived from cells or tissues. In this minireview, we discuss the basic technology for “top-down” intact protein analysis. Furthermore, examples of studies involved with the qualitative and quantitative analysis of full-length polypeptides are provided.
Protein Arginine Methylation in Mammals: Who, What, and Why

The covalent marking of proteins by methyl group addition to arginine residues can promote their recognition by binding partners or can modulate their biological activity. A small family of gene products that catalyze such methylation reactions in eukaryotes (PRMTs) works in conjunction with a changing cast of associated subunits to recognize distinct cellular substrates. These reactions display many of the attributes of reversible covalent modifications such as protein phosphorylation or protein lysine methylation; however, it is unclear to what extent protein arginine demethylation occurs. Physiological roles for protein arginine methylation have been established in signal transduction, mRNA splicing, transcriptional control, DNA repair, and protein translocation.
Mechanistic aspects of formal [3 + 4] cycloadditions between vinylcarbenoids and furans

Abstract Rhodium(II) acetate catalyzed decomposition of diethyl 4-diazo-2-pentenedioate resulted in the fomation of a vinylcarbenoid, which underwent formal [3 + 4] cycloaddition reactions with a series of furans. The most likely mechanism for these reactions involves cyclopropanation followed by a Cope rearrangement of the divinylcyclopropane intermediate.
Synergistic Taste Effects of Some New Ribonucleotide Derivatives

Taste effects of six newly synthesized ribonucleotide derivatives, i.e., disodium salts of 2-methyl-5′-inosinic acid · 6H2O, 2-ethyl-5′-inosinic acid · 1.5H2O, 2-N-methyl-5′-guanylic acid · 5.5H2O, 2-N-dimethyl-5′-guanylic acid · 2.5H2O, 2-methylthio-5′-inosinic acid · 6H2O and 2-ethylthio-5′-inosinic acid · 2H2O, were studied. Stimulus thresholds (detection thresholds) of these derivatives ranged from about 0.02 to 0.006 g/100ml. Flavor-enhancing activities of them were 2.3 to 8.0 times larger than that of disodium 5′-inosinate · 7.5H2O IMP) in the synergistic effect with monosodium glutamate. Furthermore, the quality of taste of all the derivatives was recognized to be the same kind to that of IMP.
Somatic mutant frequency at the HPRT locus in children associated with a pediatric cancer cluster linked to exposure to two superfund sites.

The somatic mutant frequency (Mf) of the hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase (HPRT) gene has been widely used as a biomarker for the genotoxic effects of exposure but few studies have found an association with environmental exposures. We measured background Mfs in 49 current and former residents of Dover Township, New Jersey, who were exposed during childhood to industrially contaminated drinking water. The exposed subjects were the siblings of children who developed cancer after residing in Dover Township, where the incidence of childhood cancer has been elevated since 1979. Mfs from this exposed group were compared to Mfs in 43 age-matched, presumably unexposed residents of neighboring communities with no known water contamination and no increased cancer incidence. Statistical comparisons were based on the natural logarithm of Mf (lnMF). The mean Mf for the exposed group did not differ significantly from the unexposed group (3.90 × 10−6 vs. 5.06 × 10−6; P = 0.135), but unselected cloning efficiencies were higher in the exposed group (0.55 vs. 0.45; P = 0.005). After adjustment for cloning efficiency, lnMf values were very similar in both groups and age-related increases were comparable to those previously observed in healthy children. The results suggest that HPRT Mf may not be a sensitive biomarker for the genotoxic effects of environmental exposures in children, particularly when substantial time has elapsed since exposure. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Performance degradation of a model helicopter rotor with a generic ice shape

An experimental program using a commercially available remotely controlled model helicopter in the Texas A&M University (TAMU) subsonic wind tunnel has been conducted to investigate the performance degradation resulting from the simulated formation of ice on the leading edge of the main rotor blades in both hover and forward flight. The rotor blades utilized a NACA 0012 airfoil with a 2.5-in. constant chord. A generic ice shape derived from a predetermined natural ice condition was applied to the 53.375-in.-diameter main rotor, and thrust and torque coefficients were measured for the main rotor as functions of velocity, main rotor rpm, fuselage angle of incidence, collective pitch angle, and spanwise extent of icing. The model helicopter test exhibited significant performance degradation of the main rotor when generic ice was added. An increase of approximately 150 percent in torque coefficient to maintain a constant thrust coefficient was noted when generic ice had been applied to the 85 percent rotor radial location. Also, considerable additional degradation occurred when generic ice was applied to the 100 percent rotor radial location, as compared with the 85 percent simulated ice performance values, indicating the sensitivity of the rotor tip region.
The second law of thermodynamics and heat release to the global environment by human activities

It is the postulate of the current work that all human activities do add heat to the global environment. The basis used is the concept of thermodynamic entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. It has been discussed and shown that human activities do release heat to the global environment. There is no claim and not the objective in the current work to make any statement about climate change or global warming. It is suggested that all significant human-related activities have been included in the discussion, and hence the proof and deduction. The approach used is in accordance with the manner in which the laws of thermodynamics were derived, which is empirical.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
The Effect of Solar Radiation Absorption in the Tropical Troposphere

Abstract Data from an experiment to measure the upward and downward components of solar radiation from aircraft during the Barbados Oceanographic and Meteorological Experiment (BOMEX) have been analyzed in the present study. Two groups of results were found. In the cloud-free tropical troposphere: 1) Absorption of solar radiation in the entire troposphere can be twice as large as previous estimates of 13% given by Manabe and Strickler. Comparison of observed heating rates to calculations shows that the increase in attenuation may be due to non-gaseous constituents in the atmosphere. 2) The vertical profile of solar radiative heating was particularly variable in the lowest layers while in the mean, the profile suggests a slight maximum near 700 mb. 3) In using the solar radiation observations of this study in an energy budget of the tropics a hypothesis regarding a nighttime maximum of precipitation in the tropical regions was formed. Findings from a radiative study of certain cloud type cases show (i) sel...
The search for quality: The case of planned obsolescence

Abstract Planned obsolescence involves a design plan that is intended to hasten existing products to become undesirable (not necessarily below that of competitive offerings) either functionally or psychologically and consequently to be replaced by new products. Many manufacturing companies since the last decade have adopted the policy of planned obsolescence in their products. Their main objective is to cut costs, increase profits and secure continuous consumption and production. When this policy is abused, however, so that customers are not getting products which can perform adequately and safely for a reasonable amount of time, the end result may prove to be more detrimental than beneficial, not only to producers and consumers but to the nation as a whole. In this age of scarce resources, energy shortages and new challenges, this paper re-examines planned obsolescence and searches for quality in todays products.
Computer-Aided Fixture Design – A Review and Future Trends

Fixture design is an important process design activity, for which automation is critical for the integration of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). In this paper, a review of the state of the art approaches of fixture design is provided. The current drawbacks of the existing approaches and the research areas to focus on in the near future are also identified.
Neural Mechanisms of Grief Regulation

Background: The death of an attachment figure triggers intrusive thoughts of the deceased, sadness, and yearning for reunion. Recovery requires reduction of symptoms. We hypothesized that symptoms might correlate with a capacity to regulate attention toward reminders of the deceased, and activity in, and functional connectivity between, prefrontal regulatory regions and the amygdala. Methods: Twenty recently bereaved subjects rated intrusive thoughts of the deceased versus a capacity to avoid thoughts (grief style). Reaction time was measured while subjects completed an Emotional Stroop (ES) task contrasting deceased-related with control words during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Subjects subsequently visualized the death of the deceased and rated induced emotions. Results: Subjects demonstrated attentional bias toward deceased-related words. Bias magnitude correlated with amygdala, insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) activity. Amygdala activity predicted induced sadness intensity. A double dissociation between grief style and both prefrontal and amygdala subregion activity was found. Intrusiveness correlated with activation of ventral amygdala and rostral anterior cingulate (rACC); avoidance correlated with deactivation of dorsal amygdala and DLPFC. A double dissociation between regulatory region and task-dependent functional connectivity (FC) was found. High DLPFC-amygdala FC correlated with reduced attentional bias, while low rACC-amygdala FC predicted sadness intensity. Conclusions: Results are consistent with a model in which activity in and functional connectivity between the amygdala and prefrontal regulatory regions indexes differences in mourners' regulation of attention and sadness during pangs of grief, and may be used to distinguish between clinically relevant differences in grief style.
A novel linearizer and a fully integrated CMOS power amplifier

In this paper, a novel predistorter is proposed and the design result of a linearized CMOS power amplifier is presented. A predistorter is incorporated with a 5.8 GHz power amplifier using a 0.18-mum 1P6M mixed-mode CMOS process. The characteristics of the predistorter are analyzed and the effects of the incorporation of the predistorter with the power amplifier are described. The predistorter compensated the AM-AM and AM-PM distortion of the power amplifier and indicated a 22.6 dB improvement in the third-order inter-modulation distortion.