cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kite: status of the external metrology testbed for SIM

Kite is a system level testbed for the External Metrology system of the Space Interferometry Mission (SIM). The External Metrology System is used to track the fiducial that are located at the centers of the interferometer's siderostats. The relative changes in their positions needs to be tracked to tens of picometers in order to correct for thermal measurements, the Kite testbed was build to test both the metrology gauges and out ability to optically model the system at these levels. The Kite testbed is an over-constraint system where 6 lengths are measured, but only 5 are needed to determine the system. The agreement in the over-constrained length needs to be on the order of 140 pm for the SIM Wide-Angle observing scenario and 8 pm for the Narrow-Angle observing scenario. We demonstrate that we have met the Wide-Angle goal with our current setup. For the Narrow-Angle case, we have only reached the goal for on-axis observations. We describe the testbed improvements that have been made since our initial results, and outline the future Kite changes that will add further effects that SIM faces in order to make the testbed more SIM like.
Methods of Evaluating Protective Clothing Relative to Heat and Cold Stress: Thermal Manikin, Biomedical Modeling, and Human Testing

Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to clothing and equipment designed to protect individuals from chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive hazards. The materials used to provide this protection may exacerbate thermal strain by limiting heat and water vapor transfer. Any new PPE must therefore be evaluated to ensure that it poses no greater thermal strain than the current standard for the same level of hazard protection. This review describes how such evaluations are typically conducted. Comprehensive evaluation of PPE begins with a biophysical assessment of materials using a guarded hot plate to determine the thermal characteristics (thermal resistance and water vapor permeability). These characteristics are then evaluated on a thermal manikin wearing the PPE, since thermal properties may change once the materials have been constructed into a garment. These data may be used in biomedical models to predict thermal strain under a variety of environmental and work conditions. When the biophysical data indicate that the evaporative resistance (ratio of permeability to insulation) is significantly better than the current standard, the PPE is evaluated through human testing in controlled laboratory conditions appropriate for the conditions under which the PPE would be used if fielded. Data from each phase of PPE evaluation are used in predictive models to determine user guidelines, such as maximal work time, work/rest cycles, and fluid intake requirements. By considering thermal stress early in the development process, health hazards related to temperature extremes can be mitigated while maintaining or improving the effectiveness of the PPE for protection from external hazards.
Moving from training to teaching

Training at Drew University has been done mostly in an intense and concentrated format. With only an hour to train customers, we have to pack as much content in as possible. The problem with this method manifests once our customers return to their offices. Unable to immediately put into use all of what they learned, it may be days or weeks before they attempt a particular task they learned in a training session, and they have forgotten how. In an attempt to provide extra learning opportunities and to explore another method of training employees, the Staff Technology Development Seminar was created. This seminar provides instruction on software packages and their uses. Instead of a training methodology, a teaching methodology was used. The students attended class for two days a week, received homework and reading assignments. They were instructed in the logic of how the software was designed to be used, and taught how to use that logic to accomplish a series of tasks, both individually and in a group. The Staff Technology Development Seminar is entering its second year, and this paper is intended to cover the creation of the resources needed for the seminar.
Influence of Ligand Substitution on Excited State Structural Dynamics in Cu(I) Bisphenanthroline Complexes

This study explores the influences of steric hindrance and excited state solvent ligation on the excited state dynamics of Cu(I) diimine complexes. Ultrafast excited state dynamics of Cu(I)bis(3,8-di(ethynyltrityl)-1,10-phenanthroline) [Cu(I)(detp)(2)](+) are measured using femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. The steady state electronic absorption spectra and measured lifetimes are compared to those of Cu(I)bis(1,10-phenanthroline), [Cu(I)(phen)(2)](+), and Cu(I)bis(2-9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline), [Cu(I)(dmp)(2)](+), model complexes to determine the influence of different substitution patterns of the phenanthroline ligand on the structural dynamics associated with the metal to ligand charge transfer excited states. Similarities between the [Cu(I)(detp)(2)](+) and [Cu(I)(phen)(2)](+) excited state lifetimes were observed in both coordinating and noncoordinating solvents and attributed to the lack of steric hindrance from substitution at the 2- and 9-positions. The solution-phase X-ray absorption spectra of [Cu(I)(detp)(2)](+), [Cu(I)(phen)(2)](+), and [Cu(I)(dmp)(2)](+) are reported along with finite difference method calculations that are used to determine the degree of ground state dihedral angle distortion in solution and to account for the pre-edge features observed in the XANES region.
Design and application of a new rat-specific vacuum erectile device for penile rehabilitation research

ABSTRACT Introduction Radical prostatectomy has a potential negative impact on penile health. The vacuum erection device (VED) has been used to promote the recovery of penile function and to maintain penile length. However, there is skepticism in the urological community due to its elusive mechanisms in penile rehabilitation. Aim To design a rat‐specific VED and assess its application and safety. Methods Based on rat penile measurement and the principle of human VED, the rat‐specific VED was designed, and the application for rats was evaluated. Main Outcome Measures The vacuum pressure of the rat‐specific VED was measured. The VED application on rat penis and its side effects were studied. Results The rat‐specific VED is a safe and applicable device to study the mechanism of VED in penile rehabilitation. Conclusions The newly designed rat‐specific VED is a good simulator of the human VED. The application of this device on bilateral cavernous nerve crush rat model will be used to study the mechanisms of the VED in the penile rehabilitation. Yuan J, Westney OL, and Wang R. Design and application of a new rat specific vacuum erectile device for penile rehabilitation research.
Visualization of plant growth

The measurement, analysis and visualization of plant growth is of primary interest to plant biologists. We are developing software tools to support such investigations. There are two parts in this investigation, namely growth visualization of (i) a plant root and (ii) a plant stem. For both domains, the input data is a stream of images taken by cameras. The tools being developed make it possible to measure various time-varying quantities, such as differential growth. For both domains, the plant is modeled by using flexible templates to represent non-rigid motions.
The ion-selective membrane behavior of native shales

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the membrane character of native shale samples by measuring the electrochemical potential across the shale membrane. Results suggest that the composition of the interstitial pore fluid in the shale plays a determining role on the establishment of the electrochemical potential and that, in some cases, the behavior of the shales is close to the expected behavior of a perfect cation-selective membrane. Shales with intermediate electrochemical potentials appear to be more sensitive to water-based fluids than shales that are closer to perfect membranes (high electrochemical potential). A model to simulate the transport of water and ions through shales was developed. Hydraulic pressure, concentration, and electric potential gradients are the driving forces for the flow of water and solute between two solutions separated by the shale. The reflection coefficient and the modified diffusion potential are calculated from the model and are used to characterize the membrane behavior of shales. A sensitivity study on the various model parameters was conducted. Results show that the membrane efficiency of the shale is strongly affected by the concentration of the interstitial fluid, the separation distance between the platelets and the type of ions in the membrane. The higher the ion concentration and the interplatelet spacing, the lower the efficiency. Results obtained using the model produce reflection coefficients that are consistent with experimental data. The model provides excellent insight into the physical mechanisms responsible for the membrane behavior of shales and a way to conduct sensitivity studies on the important model parameters. The membrane efficiencies obtained from the model may be used in wellbore stability simulators to account for chemical interactions between shales and water-based drilling fluids.
Recognition of Cytosolic DNA Activates an IRF3-Dependent Innate Immune Response

Nucleic acid recognition upon viral infection triggers type I interferon production. Viral RNA is detected by both endosomal, TLR-dependent and cytosolic, RIG-I/MDA5-dependent pathways. TLR9 is the only known sensor of foreign DNA; it is unknown whether innate immune recognition of DNA exists in the cytosol. Here we present evidence that cytosolic DNA activates a potent type I interferon response to the invasive bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The noninvasive Legionella pneumophila triggers an identical response through its type IV secretion system. Activation of type I interferons by cytosolic DNA is TLR independent and requires IRF3 but occurs without detectable activation of NF-kappaB and MAP kinases. Microarray analyses reveal a unique but overlapping gene-expression program activated by cytosolic DNA compared to TLR9- and RIG-I/MDA5-dependent responses. These findings define an innate immune response to DNA linked to type I interferon production.
International Education Travel and Youth of Color: College Is Too Late!.

Drawing on literature analyzing impacts of academic and professional early preparation programs for urban students, and particularly those of color, this article argues for the use of similar strategies to encourage and prepare youth from those backgrounds for international education travel. The central argument is that educators must focus more on motivating and reaching such youth prior to higher education, if they are to succeed in significantly diversifying participation in international education travel aimed at preparing global citizens. It suggests the use of early preparation programs specifically geared toward encouraging these youth to travel abroad (or at least consider it), as a method to positively influence efforts to increase their participation in international educational travel programs, like study abroad. The article is thus interdisciplinary in nature, attempting to link scholarship on early preparation programs and international education travel.
An assessment of quasi-static and operational errors in NC machine tools

Abstract This paper reports the results of a comparative study of predictive error modeling and machining-cycle machine tool accuracy. The total positional error due to geometric accuracy errors was modeled for a particular type of NC machine tool. Subsequently, the NC machine tool was tested for geometric accuracy for repeatability, small-load hysteresis, linear displacement accuracy, straightness, roll, pitch, yaw, and spindle drift. The measurements were then used as input parameters in the error model to predict the total resulting error. Machining was performed next on an aluminum workpiece, and a set of sensors was used for on-line force, torque, and temperature data acquisition. The finished workpiece was post-process inspected for all dimensions on a coordinate measuring machine. An analysis of data from the model, post-process measurements, and static geometric accuracy machine tool characterization parameters indicates significant shifts in machine performance under actual cutting conditions. Based on the findings, some important research issues are presented.
Implementation of a three-phase multilevel boosting inverter using switched-capacitor converter cells

Manufacturers of power electronic converters seek to increase not only power and voltage ratings but also power density. Inductorless converters help achieve the latter because capacitive energy storage has higher energy density than inductive energy storage. Multilevel topologies, which include some inductorless topologies, enable converters to operate at higher voltage levels by allowing voltage sharing between devices. This paper presents a novel multilevel inductorless boosting three-phase inverter that is constructed using a series configuration of switched-capacitor converter cells. This allows for the inverter to be used without an additional boost converter or output transformer when powered from a low-voltage dc source, such as the battery of a grid-connected energy storage system or an electric vehicle.
Pulse shaping in quadrupole-echo NMR

Abstract Shaped radiofrequency pulses are designed to extend the quadrupole-echo excitation bandwidth without insidious phase distortions. The quadrupole-shaped pulse (QUASH) is constructed by a simple iterative optimization procedure which directly solves a density-matrix equation of motion for an arbitrary amplitude-modulated pulse acting on a three-level system. Computer simulations and experimental 2H NMR studies comparing the performance of simple rectangular, composite, and shaped quadrupole-echo sequences on the partially rotating methyl group on 1-alanine-d3,3,3 show a dramatic improvement using the shaped excitation pulse. Increases in the effective bandwidth by a factor of two and three were realized over composite and rectangular sequences, respectively, without phase distortions.
Partial purification and properties of choline kinase (EC 2. 7. 1. 32) from rabbit brain: measurement of acetylcholine.

Choline kinase (EC 2.7.1.32; ATP: choline phosphotransferase) was purified 200-fold from an extract of acetone powder of rabbit brain by a combination of acid precipitation, ammonium sulphate precipitation, DEAE cellulose chromatography, and ultrafiltration. Maximal activity of 243 nmol of phosphorylcholine synthesized. min−1 mg−l of protein occurred at pH 9.5–10.0 in the presence of 10 mm MgS04, 10 mm choline and 0.005% (w/v) bovine serum albumin. 2-Aminoethanol, 2-methylaminoethanol, and 2-dimethylaminoethanol were also phosphorlyated by the enzyme preparation. The enzyme quantitatively converted low concentrations of choline (2.5–50 μm) to phosphorylcholine [32P] in the presence of ATP [y32P], and may, therefore, be used to measure small amounts of choline acetylcholine. There were two Km values for choline at pH 9.5; 32 μm and 0.31 mm. At pH 7.4, the higher Km was not observed and enzyme activity was maximal with 0.1 mm choline. The Km for ATP was 1.1 mm. Enzyme activity was inhibited by ATP (20 mm), AMP, ADP, cytidine diphosphocholine (1 or 10 mm), and activated by choline esters (1.0 mm), NaCl or KCl(200 mm).
Analytic Reviews : Hemodynamic Management of the Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Hemodynamic management is an essential aspect of the care of patients with adult respiratory distress syn drome (ARDS). On the basis of current knowledge, our proposed goals of management are to ma...
Optimal design of an MR device

This paper presents a formulation for the optimal design of MR dampers. MR materials are suspensions of magnetically soft particles in a hydraulic medium. The application of intense magnetic flux to these materials gives rise to a fibrated microstructure which, when sheared, resists flow with yielding and viscous mechanisms. The yield stress is controllable by the magnetic field and is completely and immediately reversible when the field is removed. Controllable MR dampers utilizing MR materials entails a magnetic circuit consisting of a coil and low-permeability magnetic material to contain and guides the magnetic field.
Internal versus External Locus of Control for Three Age Groups Sara Staats and the 1972 Experimental Psychology Class

Rotter's I-E Scale was administered to a non-college population of males and females in 3 age groups: 5–15, 16–25, and 46–60. Internal locus of control expectations increased with age. A trend for ...
A criterion for stability--instability at fixation states involving an eigenvalue one with applications in population genetics.

Abstract An explicit general criterion for stability-instability at fixation states is provided when the leading eigenvalue of the gradient matrix is one. Several applications in population genetics are presented including cases of familial selection of dominant and recessive genes, models of preferential mating, incompatibility systems, and effects of migration and population structure.
The localization of radioactive amino acid taken up into the outer segments of frog (Rana pipiens) rods.

Abstract After injection with tritiated methionine, frogs were sacrificed and the rod outer segments were isolated. It was found (a) that over 70% of the total disintegrations per minute (dis/min) in the outer segments was associated with rhodopsin, (b) that the dis/min in each rhodopsin extract was linearly proportional to the change in the absorbance at 500 nm before and after bleaching, and (c) (by Chromatographic separation of a “crude” rhodopsin extract) that the dis/min were associated mainly with the rhodopsin. Radioautographs of retinas corroborated the data of Young (1967) showing the scleral migration of a discrete band of radioactivity in each photoreceptor outer segment. The present data are consistent with the hypothesis that visual cell outer segments are in a constant state of turnover, and that a major product of this turnover is opsin.
Responses of LNCaP prostatic adenocarcinoma cell cultures to LY300502, a benzoquinolinone human type I 5α-reductase inhibitor

We evaluated the metabolic inhibitory, antiproliferative, and antisecretory effects of LY300502, a benzoquinolinone human-specific type I-selective steroid 5α-reductase inhibitor in LNCaP human prostatic adenocarcinoma cell cultures. Reductive metabolism of [ 3 H-T] in the LNCaP cells was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by LY300502 (IC 50 ≃ 5.77 nM). The proliferative responses of LNCaP cells to LY300502 were examined in the presence of 0.1 nM testosterone (T), a concentration that stimulates maximal LNCaP cellular proliferation. Addition of 0.1 nM T to the culture media significantly stimulated LNCaP cell numbers 40% above control levels. LY300502 significantly antagonized T-induced stimulation of LNCaP cellular proliferation at concentrations greater than 10 nM (P < 0.05), and at 1,000 nM completely blocked the mitogenic effects of T on LNCaP cells. In the absence of androgen, LY300502 had no effect on LNCaP cellular proliferation. In the presence of 100 nM T, an androgen concentration that maximally stimulates in vitro PSA production, LY300502 significantly antagonized T-induced PSA secretion at a concentration equal to or greater than 30 nM (P < 0.05). These studies provide the basis for additional investigations into the pathophysiologic significance of type I 5α-reductase to prostatic cancer and the potential utility of selective inhibitors as therapeutic agents.
Age-dependent material properties of the porcine cerebrum: effect on pediatric inertial head injury criteria

Abstract During growth and development, the immature central nervous system undergoes rapid alterations in constituents and structure. We hypothesize that these alterations are accompanied by changes in the mechanical properties of brain tissue which, in turn, influence the response of the brain to traumatic inertial loads. Samples of frontal cerebrum from neonatal (2–3 days) and adult pigs were harvested and tested within 3 h post-mortem. The complex shear modulus of the samples was measured in a custom-designed oscillatory shear testing device at engineering shear strain amplitudes of 2.5% or 5% from 20–200 Hz, at 25°C and 100% humidity. In this range, the elastic and viscous components of the complex shear modulus increased significantly with the development of the cerebral region of the brain. Using an idealized model of the developing head, the age-dependent material properties of brain tissue were shown to affect the mechanical response of the brain to inertial loading. This study is a first step toward developing head injury tolerance criteria specifically for the pediatric population.
Development of Subject-Specific Geometric Spine Model through Use of Automated Active Contour Segmentation and Kinematic Constraint-Limited Registration

This paper describes the development of a patient-specific spine model through use of active contour segmentation and registration of intraoperative imaging of porcine vertebra augmented with kinematic constraints. The geometric active contours are fully automated and lead to a discrete representation of the image segmentation results. After determining errors within the segmentations, application of reliability theory allows the selection of active contour parameters to obtain best-fit segmentations from a stack of 2D images. The segmented images are then used in conjunction with C-arm fluoroscope images to simulate the result of intraoperative patient-specific model registration including patient and/or structure motion between preoperative and intraoperative scans. The results are validated through comparison of the error within the patient-specific model generated through use of the C-arm images with a model acquired directly from MRI images of the spine after motion. The results are applicable to the development of a wide variety of patient-specific geometric and biomechanical models.
Plasmid Addiction Genes of Bacteriophage P1: doc, which Causes Cell Death on Curing of Prophage, and phd, which Prevents Host Death when Prophage is Retained

Abstract P1 lysogens of Escherichia coli carry the prophage as a stable low copy number plasmid. The frequency with which viable cells cured of prophage are produced is about 10-5 per cell per generation. Here we show that a significant part of this remarkable stability can be attributed to a plasmid encoded mechanism that causes death of cells that have lost P1. In other words, the lysogenic cells appear to be addicted to the presence of the prophage. The plasmid withdrawal response depends on a gene named doc (death on curing), encoding a 126 amino acid protein. Expression of doc is not SOS-inducing and killing by Doc is recA -independent. In cells that, retain P1 the killing is prevented by the product of a gene named phd (prevent host d eath), encoding a 73 amino acid protein. The genes phd and doc have been cloned and expressed from a 0·7 kb segment of P1 DNA. The two genes constitute an operon and the synthesis of Doc appears to be translationally coupled to that of Phd. Homologs of the P1 addiction genes are found elsewhere, but phd and doc are unrelated to previously described genes of other plasmids that also cause an apparent increase in plasmid stability by post-segregational killing.
Post-treatment with nicotinamide (vitamin B3) reduces the infarct volume following permanent focal cerebral ischemia in female Sprague–Dawley and Wistar rats

Delayed treatment with nicotinamide (NAm) protects male rats against cerebral ischemia. Since the preponderant use of male animals in stroke research may produce results not applicable to female stroke patients due to gender-related differences, we examined whether delayed NAm treatment could protect female rats against focal cerebral ischemia using a model of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo). NAm (500 mg/kg) given intravenously, 2 h after MCAo, significantly reduced the infarct volume of female Sprague-Dawley (55%, P<0.05) and Wistar rats (60%, P<0.05) rats when compared with saline-injected controls. These studies confirm that NAm is neuroprotective specifically at the dose of 500 mg/kg in rats. The novel findings are that this neuroprotection occurs in female, as well as male rats, and that the neuroprotection observed is more robust when administered as an intravenous bolus compared with intraperitoneal administration.
Multiple substance use disorders in juvenile detainees

ABSTRACT Objective To estimate the 6-month prevalence of multiple substance use disorders (SUDs) among juvenile detainees by demographic subgroups (sex, race/ethnicity, age). Method Participants were a randomly selected sample of 1,829 African American, non-Hispanic white, and Hispanic detainees (1,172 males, 657 females, aged 10 to 18). Patterns and prevalence of DSM-III-R multiple SUDs were assessed using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children Version 2.3. The authors used two-tailed F and t tests with an α of .05 to examine combinations of SUDs by sex, race/ethnicity, and age. Results Nearly half of the detainees had one or more SUDs; more than 21% had two or more SUDs. The most prevalent combination of SUDs was alcohol and marijuana use disorders (17.25% females, 19.42% males). Among detainees with any SUD, almost half had multiple SUDs. Among detainees with alcohol use disorder, more than 80% also had one or more drug use disorders. Among detainees with a drug use disorder, approximately 50% also had an alcohol use disorder. Conclusions Among detained youths with any SUD, multiple SUDs are the rule, not the exception. Substance abuse treatments need to target detainees with multiple SUDs who, upon release, return to communities where services are often unavailable. Clinicians can help ensure continuity of care by working with juvenile courts and detention centers.
The value and cost-effectiveness of adult degenerative lumbar surgery

Abstract Patients often seek surgical treatment for relief of their chronic lower back pain, generally caused by spinal stenosis, disc herniation, or spondylolisthesis. Many studies have reported the effectiveness of these surgical procedures in terms of health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) measures; however, little has been published regarding the value and cost-effectiveness of surgical intervention. In this systematic review of the literature: (1) we identified studies that reported economic interventional outcomes, specifically cost per quality-adjusted life years (QALY) or incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) and (2) we determined whether this literature demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of surgical intervention in treating degenerative lumbar conditions. A systematic search of databases such as PubMed and Cochrane Library, as well as hand searching the references of selected works, was focused on surgical and non-operative treatments for degenerative lumbar conditions, specifically spinal stenosis, lumbar disc herniation, and degenerative spondylilolysthesis. Outcomes were collected as cost-effectiveness values reported, as cost per quality-adjusted life years (QALY) gained in cohort studies, and as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) in comparative studies. Five studies directly compared the cost-effectiveness of surgery to non-operative treatment. Twelve others simply reported cost-effectiveness in a single cohort manner. From the comparative studies, the mean ICER value was $45,962. From the single cohort studies, the mean cost/QALY was $75,017. Interventions with a value between $50,000 and $100,000, or less, are generally considered cost effective. The results of our literature review suggest that surgical intervention for degenerative lumbar conditions is indeed cost-effective. In fact, the value of surgery appears to increase with additional follow-up time. That is, surgery is more cost effective in the later years of follow-up. Our review also revealed a paucity of quality studies evaluating cost-effectiveness. With the economic burden of degenerative lumbar conditions being so great to the patient and society, we encourage clinicians to continue to report outcomes from an economic standpoint, using cost/QALY and ICER values.
Measurement of population dynamics in stimulated raman adiabatic passage

The temporal evolution of populations has been directly measured for a three-level ladder system undergoing coherent excitation by stimulated Raman adiabatic passage (STIRAP). The measurement technique makes use of charge transfer as diagnostic. The method is model independent and has a temporal resolution of a few nanoseconds. The temporal evolution is measured for several values of the delay between the pump and Stokes laser pulses that are part of the STIRAP excitation scheme. The corresponding quantum Liouville equations are solved and the results of the calculations are compared with experiment.
Synthesis of (21‐3H3)‐pregnenolone

A simple procedure for the preparation of 21-3H - pregnenolone using pregnenolone as starting material is described. The procedure involved removal of the C-21-methyl group of the steroid and the side-chain was reconstructed with 3H CH3MgI in two steps: a Grignard reaction followed by oxidation of the resulting alcohol. An overall yield of 71% was achieved.
Nitrogen partitioning in rose plants over a flowering cycle

Abstract Nitrogen uptake by greenhouse roses is out of phase with flower shoot elongation, such that N uptake is lowest when shoots are elongating rapidly and highest when flower shoots have ceased elongation. Fertilizer labeled with 15 N was supplied at different stages of one flowering cycle to hydroponically grown ‘Royalty’ rose plants to study the partitioning of recently absorbed N and the dynamics of total N within the plant. After a 2 day exposure, whole plants were harvested, separated into old and new leaves, stems, and roots, then analyzed for total N and 15 N enrichment. During the period of rapid shoot elongation, N uptake from the nutrient solution supplied 16–36% of flower shoot N. The remainder, representing most of the N in the growing shoots, came from N stored in other organs, particularly old stems and leaves. The increased N uptake that occurred later in the flowering cycle was sufficient to meet flower shoot N demand and to replenish the N supply in the old foliage and woody tissues. Those organs continued to accumulate N until the subsequent bud break, when it became available for the next cycle of flower shoot development.
Project Towards No Tobacco Use: implementation, process and post-test knowledge evaluation

This paper describes the curricula contents, and presents data to evaluate the implementation, process and immediate post-test knowledge of Project Towards No Tobacco Use (Project TNT). Four different school-based tobacco use prevention curricula were developed to counteract the effects of three types of tobacco use acquisition variables typically addressed within a comprehensive social influences program: (1) peer approval for using tobacco (normative social influence), (2) incorrect social informational provided about tobacco use (information social influence) and (3) lack of knowledge or misperceptions about physical consequences resulting from tobacco use. Three curricula were designed to counteract the effects of single acquisition variables, whereas a fourth curriculum was designed to counteract the effects of combined social and physical consequences-related influences. These curricula were delivered to seventh grade students by trained project health educators to maximize implementation. 'Program' schools, those schools that received one of these curricula, were compared to 'control' schools that provided asystematic health education delivered by school personnel. A total of five conditions were contrasted through use of a randomized experiment involving 48 southern California junior high schools. This paper documents high levels of implementation in all program conditions. Also, favorable process ratings were obtained across the four program conditions, using multiple measures and sources of ratings (students, health educators and classroom teachers who observed curricula delivery). Finally, knowledge item sets completed by the students demonstrated discriminant validity across all five conditions. Because the program conditions were discriminable, yet were quite similar in implementation and process ratings, planned future study of behavioral outcomes can be interpreted as relatively uncontaminated by delivery or credibility confounds.
Synthesis and properties of anionic clays pillared by [XM12O40]n− Keggin ions

Abstract Pillared ‘anionic clays’ or layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have been prepared by ion-exchange reaction of [Zn2Al(OH)6]NO3·χH2O with polyoxometallate (POM) anions of the [XM12O40]n− or Keggin ion type. Complete replacement of NO3− was achieved for Keggin ions withn⩾6, such as α-[SiV3W9O40]7−, α-[BVIVW11O40]7−, α-[PV3W9O40]6−, and α-[H2W12O40]6−. A basal spacing of ≈ 14.5A˚was consistent with the gallery height expected for intercalated Keggin ions (≈ 9.8A˚). Only partial exchange occurred for the Keggin-like species [PCuW11O39(H2O)]5−, and no exchange was observed for Keggin ions withn⩽4, such as [PW12O40]3− and [SiW12O40]4−. The dependence of the exchange reaction on POM charge is consistent with the expected spatial constraints for replacing all gallery NO3− ions by [XM12O40]n− ions. The β isomer of [SiV3W9O40]7− was much slower to exchange than the α isomer, suggesting that commensurate guest-host interactions leading to H-bonding between the POM oxygens and the LDH hydroxyls may be important in the ion-exchange mechanism. Thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), X-ray diffraction studies, and N2 BET surface area determinations indicated that the pillared derivatives can be thermally hydrated below ≈ 200 °C with retention of crystallinity and microporous structure. At temperatures in the range 200–250 °C, dehydration/dehydroxylation is accompanied by loss of X-ray crystallinity. Structural decomposition is promoted by a reaction between the dehydroxylated layers and the intercalated POM ion that leads to the destruction of the pillaring ion as well as the lamellar host. However, the intercalated POM ions below 200 °C are accessible for catalytic chemical conversions, as revealed by the activity of several LDH-Keggin ion intercalates for the photocatalytic oxidation of isopropanol to acetone.
The boll weevil in North America: Scientific conflicts over management of environmental resources

Abstract This paper is a historical and philosphical reconstruction of how U.S. entomologists attempted to mitigate the depradations of the boll weevil on cotton, the world's most important natural fiber. The boll weevil caused severe losses in the U.S. after 1892. Early control methods were based on altering the cultural practices of cotton growers. The discovery in 1917 that calcium arsenate was an effective insecticide for boll weevils eventually allowed some farmers to rely on chemical control. Development of synthetic, organic insecticides allowed many U.S. growers after 1945 to rely heavily on insecticides for boll weevils. By the 1960s, resistance of boll weevils to insecticides, induction of secondary pest outbreaks, and environmental health hazards threatened cotton production practices based on insecticides. U.S. entomologists devised two new strategies to rescue cotton production from its insecticide crisis: integrated pest management (IPM) and total population management (TPM). Eradication of key insect pests such as boll weevils was envisaged by TPM entomologists with adequate technology. E.F. Knipling, the USDA entomologist who designed TPM, gave 1968 as a target for possible boll weevil eradication. The pilot boll weevil eradication experiment (PBWEE) was conducted in 1971–1973. IPM entomologists argued the futility of attempting to eradicate the boll weevil from the U.S.A., but TPM adherents argued for a second test, which was held in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina (1978–1980). A new controversy erupted over how to interpret the fact that a few boll weevils were found at the end of the second test. IPM and TPM entomologists were once again pitted against one another on three major issues: defining eradication; explaining secondary pest behavior; and drawing conclusions about the wisdom of a national boll weevil eradication program. Currently, entomologists have reached a stalemate over boll weevil eradication in the U.S. Some entomologists are attempting to synthesize opposing views in the hope of reaching a professional consensus on appropriate boll weevil suppression methods. Significant distinctions separate IPM and TPM and will make it difficult to achieve an agreement. Budgetary problems in the U.S.A. argue for a management rather than eradication stance against boll weevils. The split in the U.S. entomological profession could have adverse effects on efforts to develop insect-control science outside of the U.S.
Developing live vaccines against plague.

Three great plague pandemics caused by the gram-negative bacterium Yersinia pestis have killed nearly 200 million people and it has been linked to biowarfare in the past. Plague is endemic in many parts of the world. In addition, the risk of plague as a bioweapon has prompted increased research to develop plague vaccines against this disease. Injectable subunit vaccines are being developed in the United States and United Kingdom. However, the live attenuated Y. pestis -EV NIIEG strain has been used as a vaccine for more than 70 years in the former Soviet Union and in some parts of Asia and provides a high degree of efficacy against plague. This vaccine has not gained general acceptance because of safety concerns. In recent years, modern molecular biological techniques have been applied to Y. pestis to construct strains with specific defined mutations designed to create safe, immunogenic vaccines with potential for use in humans and as bait vaccines to reduce the load of Y. pestis in the environment. In addition, a number of live, vectored vaccines have been reported using attenuated viral vectors or attenuated Salmonella strains to deliver plague antigens. Here we summarize the progress of live attenuated vaccines against plagu
A Perspective on Organizational Cultures and Organizational Belief Structure

Currently school organizations are under pressure to achieve excellence. To accomplish this, organizational transformations must occur which require in-depth changes in the organizational culture of schools. This perspective addresses the study of organizational cultures and focuses on the ways that beliefs and values are structured in school organizations. An analogy between cognitive systems and organizational belief systems is constructed to conduct this analysis.
Asymmetries of heavy leptons in E 6 theories at hadron colliders

We consider the possibility of using the forward-backward asymmetry ${A}_{\mathrm{FB}}$ to distinguish between the production of fourth-generation (L) and exotic (E) leptons in hadronic collisions within the context of ${\mathrm{E}}_{6}$ theories. The existence of a new Z' resonance expected in such models and its subsequent decay into lepton pairs provides increased statistics and therefore a means to overcome the ${W}^{+}$${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ background in searches for heavy leptons. We find that for some models of current interest, ${A}_{\mathrm{FB}}$ allows the determination of the lepton-Z' couplings at the Superconducting Super Collider, but not the Fermilab Tevatron, clearly separating these two possibilities when the lepton masses are relatively light (l200\char21{}250 GeV).
Ontogeny of single nephron filtration distribution in canine puppies.

Summary: The ontogeny of single nephron flitration distribution was studied in 29 canine puppies two hr to 42 days old using the [14C] ferrocyanide method as modified by Coehlo (9). The ratio of 14Counts in outer cortical nephrons (OC) to counts in juxtamedullary nephrons (JM) were plotted against age for each puppy. This ratio (OC:JM) provided an index for comparing the single nephron mlomerular filtration between regions. A four-fold increase in OC:JM occurred from two days to four wk. The youngest puppy, two or old, showed a ratio of zero because no counts were detected in OC at that age. The most rapid increase occurred in the first 8 days of life. By the fourth wk, the mean OC:JM ratio was 0.72 ± 0.06, approaching values reported by other laboratories for adult dogs. In contrast to age-related changes in OC:JM ratio, the ratio of middle cortical to JM counts showed no age-related increase. Cortical blood flow distribution was determined by the microsphere method. The ratio of blood flow to outer and inner cortex increased from 0.43 at one-half a day to a mean of 2.93 after one wk. The ratio of OC:JM single nephron nitration to OC/inner cortical nephron renal blood low was 0.36 from 3 days to 26 days (n = 12) and did not change significantly with age, indicating that changes in zonal filtration matched the alterations in cortical blood flow distribution. Speculation: These studies suggest that although systemic arterial pressure changes probably play a role in the increasing single nephron filtration in the outer cortex of the maturing puppy, it is likely that plasma flow is a governing factor.
Redundant Wavelet Transform in Biomedical Image Application

The change of blood vessel is very important in the biomedical research, because creatures, including human beings tempt to adjust themselves to fit for the new environments. For example, if a tumor was found inside a human body and diagnosed as cancer, to get rid of this tumor is important, but to prevent the tumor to reach out to other organs is more crucial. The goal of starving the tumor can be achieved by preventing new blood vessels to grow into it. Another example is the wound healing which can be enhanced by encouraging blood vessels to reach the damaged parts. Both applications focus on the trace of the growing blood vessels. There are several trials on how to trace blood vessels, we can category them into three main approaches: window-based methods, classifier-based methods and tracking-based methods [1]. In this paper, the authors explore the usage of RDWT in this specific area of biomedical image application. Redundant wavelet transform (RDWT) has the property that all of the RDWT coefficients locate at the same spatial location as in the original spatial image, which makes it preferable for feature extraction and signal analysis [2]. With the already successful applications of RDWT in image processing and video coding [3,4], the authors built a new system to segment blood vessels using RDWT coefficient mask.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Floor-plan radar

Urban-warfare specialists, law-enforcement officers, counter-drug agents, and counter-terrorism experts encounter operational situations where they must assault a target building and capture or rescue its occupants. To minimize potential casualties, the assault team needs a picture of the building's interior and a copy of its floor plan. With this need in mind, we constructed a scale model of a single- story house and imaged its interior using synthetic-aperture techniques. The interior and exterior walls nearest the radar set were imaged with good fidelity, but the distal ones appear poorly defined and surrounded by ghosts and artifacts. The latter defects are traceable to beam attenuation, wavefront distortion, multiple scattering, traveling waves, resonance phenomena, and other effects not accounted for in the traditional (noninteracting, isotropic point scatterer) model for radar imaging.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
CPR-induced trauma: comparison of three manual methods in an experimental model.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) often results in traumatic injury to the patient. Differences in CPR-induced trauma among various forms of manual, external CPR, however, are unknown. We compared CPR-induced trauma among manual standard (STD) CPR at 60 compressions per minute; high-impulse compression (HIC) CPR at 120 compressions per minute; and interposed abdominal compression (IAC) CPR at 60 compressions per minute. A large (24 ± 3 kg) mongrel canine model was used. Ten animals were assigned to each type of CPR. Each received 17 minutes of CPR, applied to produce the best possible coronary perfusion pressure without obviously damaging the dog. Defibrillation was attempted at 20 minutes. Necropsy was performed at the time of death or after sacrifice at 24 hours. Careful postmortem examination of the thorax, lungs, heart, abdomen, and great vessels was performed. A semiquantitative trauma score of 0 to 5 was assigned to each area with a possible maximal score of 25. There was no difference in trauma scores among STD (6.4 ± 1.5), HIC (9.4 ± 1.4), and IAC (8.1 ± 1.3) methods. No significant correlation was found between the method of CPR and the different types of trauma. Specifically, IAC did not produce an increase in liver lacerations nor did HIC produce a significant increase in thoracic or pulmonary injuries. Six of 20 initially resuscitated animals expired during the 24-hour follow-up period due to CPR-induced injuries. Four of these six had extensive pulmonary trauma, including pulmonary hemorrhage or edema. Liver lacerations were the second most lethal injury. We conclude that external CPR commonly produces trauma, including serious injury in more than 25% of all recipients. There were no statistical differences in amount or type of trauma produced among STD, HIC, or IAC CPR. The most serious injuries produced were pulmonary hemorrhage and hepatic lacerations.
Sympathetically maintained pain of the digits in porphyria cutanea tarda relieved by i.v. regional guanethidine

A case of a sympathetically maintained pain of the tips of the fingers in a 39-year-old man with porphyria cutanea tarda is presented. Occupational vibrating trauma is the presumed cause. The successful treatment with intravenous regional guanethidine is reported.
Alteration of Ecosystem Function by Zebra Mussels in Oneida Lake: Impacts on Submerged Macrophytes

Dreissenid mussels (the zebra mussel Dreissena polymorpha and the quagga mussel D. bugensis) are ecosystem engineers that modify the physical environment by increasing light penetration. Such a change is likely to affect the distribution and diversity of submerged macrophytes. Filter-feeding by these mussels has been associated with increased water clarity in many North American and European lakes. In this study, we report the increase in water clarity of Oneida Lake, New York, USA, for 1975–2002 and argue that the increase was caused by zebra mussel invasion rather than declines in nutrients. Over the study period, although mean total phosphorus decreased significantly, the main increase in water clarity occurred after the zebra mussel invasion in 1991. The average depth receiving 1% surface light increased from 6.7 m to 7.8 m after the invasion of zebra mussels, representing a 23% areal expansion. The maximum depth of macrophyte colonization, as measured by diver and hydroacoustic surveys, increased from 3.0 m before the invasion of zebra mussels to 5.1 m after their establishment. In addition, macrophyte species richness increased, the frequency of occurrence increased for most species, and the composition of the macrophyte community changed from low-light–tolerant species to those tolerating a wide range of light conditions. Comparisons with observations reported in the literature indicate that increased light penetration alone could explain these changes in macrophyte distribution and diversity. Such changes will increase the importance of benthic primary production over pelagic production in the food web, thereby representing an overall alteration of ecosystem function, a process we refer to as “benthification”.