cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Robust multiplatform RF emitter localization

In recent years, position based services has increase. Thus, recent developments in communications and RF technology have enabled system concept formulations and designs for low-cost radar systems using state-of-the-art software radio modules. This research is done to investigate a novel multi-platform RF emitter localization technique denoted as Position-Adaptive RF Direction Finding (PADF). The formulation is based on the investigation of iterative path-loss (i.e., Path Loss Exponent, or PLE) metrics estimates that are measured across multiple platforms in order to autonomously adapt (i.e. self-adjust) of the location of each distributed/cooperative platform. Experiments conducted at the Air-Force Research laboratory (AFRL) indicate that this position-adaptive approach exhibits potential for accurate emitter localization in challenging embedded multipath environments such as in urban environments. The focus of this paper is on the robustness of the distributed approach to RF-based location tracking. In order to localize the transmitter, we use the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) data to approximate distance from the transmitter to the revolving receivers. We provide an algorithm for on-line estimation of the Path Loss Exponent (PLE) that is used in modeling the distance based on Received Signal Strength (RSS) measurements. The emitter position estimation is calculated based on surrounding sensors RSS values using Least-Square Estimation (LSE). The PADF has been tested on a number of different configurations in the laboratory via the design and implementation of four IRIS wireless sensor nodes as receivers and one hidden sensor as a transmitter during the localization phase. The robustness of detecting the transmitters position is initiated by getting the RSSI data through experiments and then data manipulation in MATLAB will determine the robustness of each node and ultimately that of each configuration. The parameters that are used in the functions are the median values of RSSI and rms values. From the result it is determined which configurations possess high robustness. High values obtained from the robustness function indicate high robustness, while low values indicate lower robustness.
Alkylphenols and arylnitriles in a biologically active neutral subfraction of cigarette smoke condensate

Abstract A tumorigenic neutral subfraction of cigarette smoke condensate eluting from silicic acid with benzene and soluble in dimethylsulfoxide was shown to contain the following constituents: 2-butylphenol; 2-isobutylphenol; 2-ethyl-6-methylphenol; 3-ethylbenzonitrile; 2,5-dimethylbenzonitrile; 2-ethylbenzonitrile; 2,6-dimethylbenzonitrile; 4-ethylbenzonitrile and 2,3-dimethylbenzonitrile. Evidence was also obtained for the presence of 2-methylbenzonitrile and 2-ethyl-5,6-dimethylphenol. None of these components has been reported previously in condensate. The partition coefficients in ether/1N NaOH ranged from 1·1 to 44 for the four phenols, indicating that their occurrence in the neutral fraction would be expected. The amounts of constituents that were isolated and identified ranged from 0·6 to 2·2 mg/kg smoke condensate.
e-Merging Realities

Over a career of 42 years, Prof. Furness has been exploring and developing technology tools for getting bandwidth to the brain and between brains. His work has encompassed fighter cockpits, virtual reality, retinal displays, educational tools, medical simulators, pain, phobias, molecular modeling, scanning fiber endoscopes and entertainment systems. This quest has been punctuated with side trips and aha experiences that have led to unanticipated destinations, many of which have involved distributed and real-time simulation. Dr. Furness plans to talk about lessons learned on his journey including unexpected delights...with an aim to inspire, entertain and challenge conference attendees.
Paradoxical rebound platelet activation after painkillers cessation: missing risk for vascular events?

Abstract Background Several reliable reports strongly indicate that the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Considering the key role of platelets in coronary atherosclerosis and the fact that antiplatelet therapy with aspirin (and more recently, clopidogrel) has been associated with reduced vascular mortality, we sought to determine the effect of therapy and withdrawal of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors on platelet activity. Methods Platelet characteristics from 34 aspirin-naive volunteers who were receiving NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors were compared with 138 drug-free controls. Platelets were assessed twice at baseline (at least 1 month of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors) and after a 14-day washout. We used adenosine diphosphate-induced conventional aggregometry, the point-of-care Ultegra analyzer (Ultegra Accumetrics, San Diego, Calif), and whole blood flow cytometry. Results Platelet activity during therapy with NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors was similar and unremarkable between groups. However, there was a highly significant increase of platelet activity as assessed by conventional aggregometry (P = .0003), Ultegra analyzer readings (P = .03), and expression of GPIIb/IIIa (P = .02), P-selectin (P = .03), and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (P = .001) after withdrawal from NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors. Conclusions These data suggest that drug cessation, rather than continuous therapy with NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, may be associated with rebound platelet activation, which may predispose one to a higher risk of vascular events. This hypothesis requires intensive testing in crossover randomized studies and may justify more aggressive antiplatelet regimens in patients after discontinuation of therapy with NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors.
A new microtome for thin-sectioning for electron microscopy

Abstract A new microtome is described for the cutting of thin sections for the electron microscope. The specimen is mounted on an arm attached to a constantly rotating shaft. The advance mechanism for the knife consists of a stiff member supporting the knife which is bent by stretching a relatively flexible spring attached to it. Very reproducible motion is claimed. Ribbons with a thickness of less than 300 A have been obtained.
Ring opening metathesis polymerization of 1,1-diphenyl-1-sila-cyclopent-3-ene

1,1-Diphenyl-1-silacyclopent-3-ene (I) has been polymerized by ring opening metathesis using tungsten hexachloride and either cyclopentene or cyclohexene as an initiator, with or without tetraphenyltin as a cocatalyst. The product polymer poly(1,1-diphenyl-1-sila-cis-pent-3-ene) (II) has been characterized by1H,13C, and29Si NMR and IR spectroscopy.
Dbpc inhibited oil in semisealed transformers

WIDESPREAD INTEREST in 2,6 ditertiary butyl para cresol (DBPC) as an inhibitor for transformer oils has resulted in extensive usage, largely based on evaluation by laboratory means. Earlier studies reported in a paper by the authors1 on long operation of small semi-sealed transformers indicated that evaluation in actual transformers was desirable and also that useful information might be obtained from accelerated operation.
Political Theology and Shakespeare Studies

The current focus on political theology in Shakespeare studies is largely devoted to tracing how Shakespeare's dramas illuminate the structural link between religious and political forms in both early modernity and modern liberal democracy. Critics concerned with addressing Shakespeare's engagement with political theology are also interested in how Shakespeare's portrayal of sovereign bodies in crisis constitute an early representation of ‘biopolitics’. These critics draw on theorists ranging from Carl Schmitt to Giorgio Agamben to inform their analyses of the way Shakespeare dramatizes sovereignty in a ‘state of emergency’ in his histories and tragedies. Plays such as Richard II, Coriolanus, and Hamlet have drawn particular attention insofar as they vividly interrogate the nature of the sovereign exception and decision highlighted by theorists of political theology. While this line of criticism adds a new theoretical dimension to Shakespeare studies, it also offers the potential for remapping our understanding of the religious and political history of early modern England in its attention to the deforming pressure of religious schism on traditional structures of sovereignty.
Effects of exogenous and endogenous norepinephrine on the oxygen availability of intact muscular arteries.

Summary A Polarographic technique was used to evaluate changes in arterial wall oxygen availability during systemically administered and endogenously released norepinephrine. A 125- μ , diameter bare-tipped platinum electrode was advanced into the media of exposed femoral arteries in 23 anesthetized dogs. Tissue oxygen availability was recorded in terms of current flow through the Polarographic electrode system. Intravenously administered norepinephrine produced a vasopressor response and was associated with significant reductions in the oxygen current in intact and autografted vessels. Similar reductions in intramural oxygen availability were produced by ipsilateral lumbar sympathetic ganglia stimulation. The norepinephrine-induced changes in oxygen availability were produced even when the blood pressure in the femoral artery was held constant by pump perfusion. Furthermore, intramural oxygen availability could not be reduced by passive increases in luminal pressure. These findings indicate that norepinephrine reduced intramural oxygen availability by a direct metabolic effect on the smooth muscle of the vessel wall.
THERMAL STABILITY OF SUBSIDIARY DYES ASSOCIATED WITH FD&C YELLOW NO. 6

FD&C Yellow No. 6 and five subsidiary dyes commonly found in commercial samples of this colorant were examined to determine their thermal stability in various model systems. Differences in thermal stabilities were noted for the various subsidiary dyes. Variations in stability for samples processed in neutral and acidic solutions were noted. Samples were also processed in the presence of a reducing sugar. Possible breakdown products are discussed. Studies have shown significant differences in the stability of the major and subsidiary dyes which could have potential significance.
Progressive Ambition among United States Senators: 1972-1988

A rational-choice model is used to account for the decisions of United States Senators to run for president. The model predicts that senators will be more likely to run for president if their relative costs of running are low, if they have no political liabilities that might reduce their chances of winning, and if they have a propensity to take risks, which we measure by their past willingness to take risks in running for the Senate. The model works well in accounting for the decisions of Democrats to seek the presidency in 1972, 1976, and 1984, and can explain why few Republican senators ran in 1980. The model is used to predict which senators in the 99th Congress are relatively likely to run for president in 1988. The model works better in accounting for the past behavior of Democrats than Republicans, and also generates more plausible predictions about future Democratic presidential candidates. This partisan difference results largely from the different opportunity structures of the two parties. Finall...
The halo effect revisited: Forewarned is not forearmed ☆

Abstract The purpose of the present research was to determine if forewarning subjects about the halo effect eliminated the effect or made people aware of its impact. The research was a replication and extension of R. E. Nisbett and T. D. Wilson's ( Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , 1977 , 35 , 250–256) experiment on the halo effect. Subjects viewed an interview of a college instructor who was either warm or cold and then rated his physical appearance, mannerisms, and French accent. Some subjects were told to introspect about their cognitive processes while viewing the interview and were told that the purpose of the study was to see how aware they were of the determinants of their ratings. Other subjects were also told specifically what the halo effect was and given a motivation either to show it or not to show it. In addition, a measurement technique different from that used by Nisbett and Wilson was utilized to allow a more precise measurement of awareness, and a new cover story was used to make the task more involving and important to subjects. Despite these attempts to eliminate the halo effect (or, at a minimum, to make people aware of it), the results indicated that subjects in all conditions were very susceptible to it. That is, subjects who viewed the warm version of the interview rated the instructor's appearance, mannerisms, and accent significantly higher than did those who viewed the cold version, even when informed and forewarned about this effect. The forewarning and introspection instructions also had no impact on subject's awareness of the halo effect. Subjects in all conditions indicated that their liking for the instructor had had only a minimal effect on their ratings.
In Defense of ‘Unbridled’ Freedom of Contract

. The doctrine of freedom of contract, viz., that each person should have the liberty to enter into and the right to insist on the fulfillment of any rights-respecting contract, is defined and defended as an implication of a Lockean emphasis on natural rights. This natural rights perspective requires the rejection of all collective social goal theories, e.g., utilitarianism, and the rejection of objections to freedom of contract which proceed from such theories. Four specific objections to freedom of contract, each of which appears to flow from an individualistic emphasis on freedom and rights, are considered. But each of these is dismissed either for misconceiving the nature of freedom or for involving an underlying appeal to some implausible social goal theory.
THE POTASSIUM EQUILIBRIUM IN MUSCLE

1. Analyses were made of the K and HCO3 content, the irritability, and weight change of isolated frog sartorius muscles after immersion for 5 hours in Ringer's solutions modified as to pH and potassium content. 2. At each pH a concentration of potassium in the solution was found which was in diffusion equilibrium with the potassium in the muscle. In greater concentrations potassium moved into the muscle against the concentration gradient and vice versa . 3. The greater the alkalinity of the solution the smaller the concentration of the potassium at equilibrium so that the product of the concentrations of OH and K in the solution at equilibrium tends to remain approximately constant. 4. The pH inside the muscle is approximately equal to that outside when first dissected but it tends to change during immersion so as to follow the changes in the pH of the solution. This finding is in direct conflict with the theory according to which the high potassium concentration inside should be accompanied by an equally high hydrogen ion concentration in relation to that outside. 5. The diffusion of potassium into the muscle makes its contents more alkaline but the increase in alkalinity is not always, nor usually, equivalent to the amount of potassium which has diffused and conversely, the pH inside can change in either direction according to the pH outside without there being any diffusion of potassium. Hence potassium is not the only penetrating ion. 6. The irritability of the muscles is at a maximum in concentrations of potassium which are greater than that in normal Ringer's solution, or about 20 mg. per cent potassium. This optimum does not seem to be a function of pH and is therefore not dependent upon the direction of movement of the potassium but probably on the ratio of potassium outside to that inside. 7. Swelling of the muscles occurs in solutions which injure the muscle so as to permit both cations and anions to enter without permitting the organic protein anions to escape. Anion impermeability is necessary to prevent this same osmotic swelling under normal conditions. 8. An increase in the CO2 tension in muscle and solution causes a greater increase in acidity in the solution than in the muscle and leads to a loss of potassium. One expects therefore a potassium shift from tissues to blood comparable to the chlorine shift from plasma to corpuscles.
Ionic Conductivity Method for measuring vaporized chromium species from solid oxide fuel cell interconnects

Abstract A novel method of measuring vaporized chromium species from metallics specimens, in real time, was developed to enable more rapid alloy and coating screening for use as solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) interconnects. This method, the Ionic Conductivity Method (ICM), simulates an SOFC environment and captures vaporized species into a de-ionized water (DI) solution where total amount of vaporized chromium can be measured. The development, design, and final implementation of this method is presented with calculations of expected theoretical accuracy and comparison with alternative methods. This method will allow for further investigation into vaporization kinetics, more rapid coating research, and facilitate inquiry into secondary vaporized species. Finally, ICM was used to measure the vaporization rates of bulk chromia, CroferAPU22, E-Brite, ZMG-232, and 441 Stainless Steel for comparison with current methods.
A comparative study of the redox-cycling of a quinone (rifamycin S) and a quinonimine (rifabutin) antibiotic by rat liver microsomes.

Abstract Rifamycin S and rifabutin are clinical drugs used to treat tuberculosis and leprosy. The formation of reactive oxygen species during the redox-cycling of rifamycin S (quinone) and rifabutin (quinonimine) was evaluated. The semiquinone (or semiquinonimine) and hydroquinone (or hydroquinonimine) formed during the reduction of the parent molecules by microsomal electron transfer in the presence of nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate, reduced (NADPH) or nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide, reduced (NADH) reoxidizes in air to generate superoxide radical and hydrogen peroxide. In the presence of added iron, hydroxyl radicals, formed by the Fenton reaction, were detected using 5,5′-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide as the spin-trap. Rifamycin S, a quinone, redox cycles more efficiently than rifabutin, a quinonimine, as approximately five times the concentration of hydroxyl radical adduct of 5,5′-dimethyl-1-pyroline-N-oxide (DMPO) was detected, when compared with rifabutin. The NADPH-dependent microsomal production of hydroxyl radical in the presence of rifamycin S was somewhat higher than the NADH-rifamycin S system with most iron chelators. However, with rifabutin, NADH-dependent microsomal production of hydroxyl radical was higher than that found with the NADPH-rifabutin system. An exception was the iron chelator, diethylene-triamine-pentacetic acid (DTPA), in which NADPH-dependent rates exceeded the rates with NADH with both antibiotics. Rat liver sub-mitochondrial particles also generated hydroxyl radical in the presence of NADH and either rifamycin S or rifabutin. The electron transport chain inhibitors such as rotenone and antimycin A enhanced the signal intensity of DMPO-OH, suggesting NADH dehydrogenase (complex I) as the major component involved in the reduction of rifamycin S. Rifamycin S was shown to be readily reduced to rifamycin SV, the corresponding hydroquinone by Fe(II); under similar conditions Fe(II) did not reduce rifabutin. Using optical spectroscopy, we determined that rifamycin S forms a complex with Fe(II). The stoichiometry of the complex was Fe(rifamycin S)3 in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4. Rifabutin did not form a detectable complex with Fe(II). The redox cycling of rifamycin S and rifabutin did not cause microsomal lipid peroxidation. In fact, the Fe:ATP induced lipid peroxidation was completely inhibited by these two molecules. These results indicate that rifamycin S and rifabutin can interact with rat liver microsomes to undergo redox-cycling, with the subsequent production of hydroxyl radicals when iron complexes are present. Compared to NADPH, NADH is almost as effective (rifamycin S) or even more effective (rifabutin) in promoting these interactions. These interactions may play a role in the hepatotoxicity associated with the use of these antibiotics. Copyright © 1996 Elsevier Science Inc.
Catecholamines in plants

Catecholamines (CAs) are neurotransmitters in mammals. They have been found in 44 plant families, but no essential metabolic function has been established for them. They are precursors of benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids, which are the active principal ingredients of many medicinal plant extracts. CAs have been implicated to have a possible protective role against insect predators, injuries, and nitrogen detoxification. They have been shown to promote plant tissue growth, somatic embryogenesis from in vitro cultures, and flowering. CAs inhibit indole-3-acetic acid oxidation and enhance ethylene biosynthesis. They have also been shown to enhance synergistically various effects of gibberellins.
Image enhancement for phase shift analysis sensors

Phase shift analysis sensors are popular in inspection and metrology applications. The sensor's captured image contains the region of interest of an object overlaid with projected fringes. These fringes bend according to the surface topography. 3D data is then calculated using phase shift analysis. The image profile perpendicular to the fringes is assumed to be sinusoidal. A particular version of phase shift analysis is the image spatial phase stepping approach that requires only a single image for analysis, but it is sensitive to noise. When noise, such as surface texture, appears in the image, the sinusoidal behavior is partially lost. This causes an inaccurate or noisy measurement. In this study, three digital de-noising filters are evaluated. The intent is to retrieve a smoother sine-like image profile while precisely retaining fringe boundary locations. Four different edge types are used as test objects. "Six Sigma" statistical analysis tools are used to implement screening, optimization, and validation. The most effective enhancement algorithms of the selection comprise (1) line shifting followed by horizontal Gabor filtration and vertical Gaussian filtering for chamfer edge measurement and (2) edge orientation detection followed by 2-D Gabor filter for round edges. These algorithms significantly improve the gauge repeatability.
Sr and Nd isotopes at the prmian/triassic boundary: A record of climate change

Abstract We present a detailed curve of seawater 87Sr/86Sr for the Middle Permian to Triassic based on analyses of conodonts from overlapping sections in the U.S.A. Pakistan, correlated using conodont biostratigraphy. The isotope ratio decreased in the Middle Permian at an average rate of 0.000062 Ma−1, reached a minimum in the Capitanian (257–258 Ma), and increased in the Late Permian at an average rate of 0.000097 Ma−1. The Late Permian rate of increase was roughly two and a half times greater than the average; increase over the past 40 Ma, and approximately equal to the highest Cenozoic rates, which occurred over much shorter time intervals. Modeling results suggest that decreasing Middle Permian 87Sr/86Sr ratios were driven by changes in the riverine Sr flux to the oceans, while increasing ratios in the Late Permian /Triassic are attributed to both increased riverine 87Sr/86Sr and flux. The reduced Middle Permian riverine flux coincides with extreme continental aridity associated with the formation of Pangea and recorded by massive evaporite deposits. In addition, mountains in the equatorial region of Pangea may have created a rain shadow, thereby minimizing precipitation in regions that currently contribute the bulk of chemical weathering products to the ocean. Increasing riverine 87Sr/86Sr in the Late Permian is suggested by the observation that 143Nd/144Nd values decrease at the same time; however, the source of radiogenic Sr is not known. Frequently cited mechanisms for increasing 87Sr/86Sr in runoff, such as glaciations and continent-to-continent collisions, coincide instead with decreasing seawater 87Sr/86Sr in the Middle Permian. One possible source may have been deep erosion into older orogens, associated with a dramatic increase in chemical weathering in the Late Permian. The cause of enhanced weathering appears to have been increased levels of atmospheric CO2 with associated global warming and increased humidity. Proposed sources of CO2 include dissociation of gas hydrates and oxidation of organic matter during extreme sea level regression, as well as volcanic emissions from Siberian Traps eruptions. Continental floral and faunal distributions are consistent with this interpretation, as are oceanic δ13C patterns and variations in shallow-water sediment lithologies.
A new cellular system opposing HIV infection: implications for gene transfer?

One of the longest-standing mysteries in HIV research has been the function of the viral-encoded VIF protein. VIF is required for efficient viral infection in vivo [1–4], apparently because it overcomes the action of a host-encoded antiviral system [5,6]. A recent report in Nature describes a major breakthrough in understanding the cellular defense machinery that is overcome by HIV VIF [7]. In addition to its importance for HIV research, this discovery raises a variety of questions about whether manipulating this system might be helpful in optimizing gene transfer. The vif gene is one of the “auxiliary” genes of HIV, which are defined as being dispensable for efficient replication in at least some settings in cell culture. In vivo, however, vif is clearly required, as indicated, for example, by the finding that simian immunodeficiency viruses (primate relatives of HIVs) lacking vif are greatly attenuated [1]. The outcome of infections with vif-negative viruses in different cell lines was intriguing and ultimately quite informative. In vif-permissive cells, HIV derivatives mutated for vif grow as well as wild-type virus. In vif-nonpermissive cells, growth is greatly abrogated, but in a selective fashion. The nonpermissive phenotype is only seen when vif-negative virus is produced from nonpermissive cells. When vif-negative virus is produced from permissive cells, then used to infect nonpermissive cells, the virus infection proceeds normally. Tests of primary human cells revealed that they were vif nonpermissive, suggesting that VIF acts against this system normally during HIV infection. Elegant experiments from the laboratories of Malim and Kabat established that this could be explained by VIF overcoming a host-encoded antiviral system in virus producer cells. Both labs fused permissive cells with nonpermissive cells and asked whether or not the hybrid cells restricted growth of VIF-mutant HIV. They reasoned that if nonpermissive cells encoded an antiviral system, the fused cells should be nonpermissive because they would contain the interfering factor. The alternative was that nonpermissive cells might lack a factor required for efficient viral replication, in which case the fused cells would be permissive because the factor would be present. The experiments revealed that the fused cells were in fact nonpermissive, supporting the conjecture that restrictive cells express an antiviral system.
The space–time Sinc‐Gallerkin method for parabolic problems

This paper contains the formulation of a space–time Sinc-Galerkin method for the numerical solution of the parabolic partial differential equation in one space dimension. The space–time adjective means that the Galerkin technique is employed simultaneously in time and space. Salient features of the method include: exponential rate of convergence, ease of assembly of the discrete system, a global approximation and the ability to handle singular problems. Two methods of solution for the discrete system are offered and numerical results for test problems, selected from the literature, are included.
Glacial geography and native North American languages

Abstract This study tests the hypothesis that the number and distribution of some native American languages may be related to ice-margin changes of the Wisconsin glaciation. The analysis indicated that the number of languages per unit area is much greater in unglaciated areas of the last glacial maximum than in glaciated areas. The pattern of languge overlap between land areas sequentially exposed during deglaciation appears to indicate the direction of movement of populations from the periphery toward the core of the area once covered by the Wisconsin Ice Sheet. The data strongly indicate that North America was inhabited prior to the Wisconsin glacial maximum, because glacial maximum conditions apparently influenced linguistic distributions. Evidence suggests that ancestral Eskimo-Aleut and Na-Dene speakers occupied the northwestern edge of the continental ice mass, and that ancestral Algonquian speakers were south of the ice mass during the Wisconsin glacial maximum (approximately 18,000 yr ago). These three linguistic groups were the principal ones to spreas into areas exposed by the recession of the Wisconsin ice.
Multiple perspectives on the quality of early childhood programmes

SUMMARY The main argument of the paper is that the quality of programmes for young children can be seen from a variety of perspectives as follows: (1) from above as seen by visiting adults and observers (2) from below as seen by the children themselves (3) from the outside as seen by the parents served by the programme (4) from inside as seen by the staff who work in the programme and (5) finally as perceived by the society and its representatives who sponsor the programme. Criteria of quality from each perspective are proposed. It is theoretically conceivable that aspects of quality that satisfy one perspective may not satisfy another, and the question of whose perspective has first claim in the ultimate judgment of quality is raised. The paper discusses the implications of the multiple perspectives from each of them.
Bayard and Troilus: Chaucerian Non-paradox in the Reader

When considered within the context of the information provided by Chaucer in the opening lines of Troilus and Criseyde, the first three images of the poem assume what recent criticism would call an affective function and thus enable us to interpret the narrative from a point of view hitherto ignored by modern audiences. As in the case of other mediaeval masterpieces– notably the Gunnlaugssaga Ormstungu and the Nibelungenlied– the beginning of the poem cues us in to the subsequent action, but the three images in question prompt us to draw upon a folkloristic and literary background which, though different today from what it would have been in the fourteenth century, affects our reaction to Troilus' behavior and helps us reconcile some bothersome discrepancies between the opening and the conclusion. The affective element seems particularly strong when one reads a well-known allusion to the horse Bayard in the light of the French story of the four sons of Aymon as it must have been known in mediaeval England rather than as a substantial body of scholarship has accounted for it. The arguments presented here bear out a view of Chaucer's narrative technique which E. Talbot Donaldson has advanced over the years.
Implications of newly-formed seed-dispersal mutualisms between birds and introduced plants in northern California, USA

I examined the role of bird dispersal in invasiveness of three non-native plant species in California, USA: Triadica sebifera, Ligustrum lucidum, and Olea europaea. I selected these species because their invasiveness in California is uncertain, but a survey of ornithologists highlighted them as likely bird-dispersed. I quantified bird frugivory of these plants, compared them with a native species (Heteromeles arbutifolia), and explored the management implications of dispersal mutualisms for these and other incipient invasive plants. Fruit removal by birds was sufficient to permit spread for all study species. Seed dispersers (rather than seed predators) and pulse feeders (flocking species with potential for long distance dispersal) performed most fruit removal for the non-native species, a pattern indicative of an effective dispersal regime. The number of fruiting trees per stand was a significant predictor of bird visitation. Founding population size may thus be important in management of invasive, bird-dispersed plants. Disperser-defined niches were relatively narrow because a few disperser species performed the majority of fruit removal from study trees, but each fruit species was consumed by a variety of potential dispersers. This results in strong pairwise niche overlap between some plant species. Ordinated by bird use, study site-species combinations clustered more by geographic location than by plant species, emphasizing the opportunistic nature of bird foraging. None of the non-native focal plant species appears dispersal limited, and all have formed novel mutualisms in California. It is possible that these plants are now in lag phases preceding bird-mediated invasion. Consideration of bird dispersal when evaluating invasiveness is therefore an imperative.
Indian dot‐coms: Poised to take off?

U.S. Internet stocks were hot during the late 1990s. Unfortunately, that boom ended with a crash. Then, Chinese dot-coms took off in 2002 and earned large returns for investors. But the population online in India is expected to double by 2007 and reach 100 million people. So, are Indian dot-coms next? Is it time to buy Indian technology stocks? © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A New Model Linking Intrathymic Acetylcholine Receptor Expression and the Pathogenesis of Myasthenia Gravis

The thymus is thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis (MG), an autoimmune disease characterized by skeletal muscle weakness. However, its role remains a mystery. The studies described represent our efforts to determine how intrathymic expression of the neuromuscular type of acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) is involved in the immunopathogenesis of MG. We review our work characterizing the expression of the alpha subunit of nAChR (nAChRalpha) in the thymus and advance a new hypothesis that examines the intrathymic expression of this autoantigen in disease pathogenesis.
Mutations in Na(K)Cl transporters in Gitelman's and Bartter's syndromes.

Abstract The successful merging of modern molecular genetics with basic renal physiology is exemplified by the recent description of the molecular basis of two classic diseases of clinical nephrology: Bartter's and Gitelman's syndromes of inherited hypokalemic alkalosis. Mutations in four different genes have been identified, each of which causes hypokalemic alkalosis, salt wasting and hypotension. These genetic studies have greatly advanced our understanding of renal physiology.
Enumeration of aromatic oxygenase genes to evaluate monitored natural attenuation at gasoline-contaminated sites.

Abstract Monitoring groundwater benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) concentrations is the typical method to assess monitored natural attenuation (MNA) and bioremediation as corrective actions at gasoline-contaminated sites. Conclusive demonstration of bioremediation, however, relies on converging lines of chemical and biological evidence to support a decision. In this study, real-time PCR quantification of aromatic oxygenase genes was used to evaluate the feasibility of MNA at two gasoline-impacted sites. Phenol hydroxylase (PHE), ring-hydroxylating toluene monooxygenase (RMO), naphthalene dioxygenase (NAH), toluene monooxygenase (TOL), toluene dioxygenase (TOD), and biphenyl dioxygenase (BPH4) genes were routinely detected in BTEX-impacted wells. Aromatic oxygenase genes were not detected in sentinel wells outside the plume indicating that elevated levels of oxygenase genes corresponded to petroleum hydrocarbon contamination. Total aromatic oxygenase gene copy numbers detected in impacted wells were on the order of 106–109 copies L−1. PHE, RMO, NAH, TOD, and BPH4 gene copies positively correlated to total BTEX concentration. Mann–Kendall analysis of benzene concentrations was used to evaluate the status of the dissolved BTEX plume. The combination of trend analysis of contaminant concentrations with quantification of aromatic oxygenase genes was used to assess the feasibility of MNA as corrective measures at both sites.
High Functional Overlap Between MluI Cell-Cycle Box Binding Factor and Swi4/6 Cell-Cycle Box Binding Factor in the G1/S Transcriptional Program in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

In budding yeast, many genes are induced early in the cell cycle. Induction of these genes has been predominantly attributed to two transcription factors, Swi4-Swi6 (SBF) and Mbp1-Swi6 (MBF). Swi4 and Mbp1 are related DNA-binding proteins with dissimilar target sequences. For most G1/S-regulated genes that we tested in a cdc20 block-release protocol for cell-cycle synchronization, removal of both Swi4 and Mbp1 was necessary and sufficient to essentially eliminate cell-cycle-regulated expression. Detectable SBF or MBF binding sites (SCBs or MCBs) in the promoters or available genome-wide promoter occupancy data do not consistently explain this functional overlap. The overlapping ability of these transcription factors to regulate many promoters with very similar cell-cycle kinetics may provide robustness to the G1/S transcriptional response, but poses a puzzle with respect to promoter-transcription factor specificity. In addition, for some genes, deletion of Mbp1 or Swi4 enhances transcription, suggesting that these factors can also function as transcriptional repressors. Finally, we observe residual G1/S transcriptional regulation in the absence of Swi4 and Mbp1.
Phosphorylation‐Induced Modulation of pNBC1 Function: Distinct Roles for the Amino‐ and Carboxy‐Termini

The human NBC1 (SLC4A4) gene encodes the electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporters kNBC1 and pNBC1, which are highly expressed in the kidney and pancreas, respectively. The HCO3−:Na+ stoichiometry of these cotransporters is an important determinant of the direction of ion flux. Recently we showed in a mouse proximal tubule (mPCT) cell line expressing kNBC1, that 8-Br-cAMP shifts the stoichiometry of the cotransporter from 3:1 to 2:1 via protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent phosphorylation of Ser982. pNBC1 has the identical carboxy-terminal consensus phosphorylation PKA site (KKGS1026), and an additional site in its amino-terminus (KRKT49). In this study we determined the potential role of these sites in regulating the function of pNBC1. The results demonstrated that in mPCT cells expressing pNBC1, PKA-dependent phosphorylation of Ser1026 following 8-Br-cAMP treatment shifted the stoichiometry from 3:1 to 2:1. The effect was electrostatic in nature as replacing Ser1026 with Asp resulted in a similar stoichiometry shift. In addition to shifting the stoichiometry, 8-Br-cAMP caused a significant increase in the 4,4′-dinitrostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (DNDS)-sensitive basolateral membrane conductance (GDS) of cells expressing pNBC1, but not kNBC1. Although, the effect did not involve phosphorylation of Thr49, which was endogenously phosphorylated, replacing this residue with Asp or Ala abolished the 8-Br-cAMP-induced increase in GDS. In the mPEC pancreatic duct cell line, where endogenous pNBC1 functions with a HCO3−:Na+ stoichiometry of 2:1, 8-Br-cAMP increased GDS by ∼90 % without altering the stoichiometry or inducing phosphorylation of the cotransporter. The results demonstrate that phosphorylation of Ser1026 mediates the cAMP-dependent shift in the stoichiometry of pNBC1, whereas Thr49 plays an essential role in the cAMP-induced increase in GDS.
Characterization by Chromatofocusing of Estrogen Receptors From Rat Mammary Tumor MTW9

The estrogen receptor (ER) from rat mammary tumor MTW9-D, which is sensitive to ovariectomy, could be separated by chromatofocusing (CF) into two peaks specifically binding 3H-estradiol, focusing at pH 6.8 (peak A) and pH 6.0 (peak B). The ER from MTW9-MtT tumor, which is resistant to ovariectomy, presented only one peak, focusing at pH 6.0 (peak B). The peaks presented similar sedimentation coefficients (3.5s) with peak B being slightly larger than peak A. Regardless of the tumor sensitivity to hormonal manipulation, the two peaks presented similar molecular weights as shown by immunostaining of Western blots: a major duplex component of 70 kilodaltons (kd), and single bands at 48, 36, and 35 kd. The bands under 70 kd could be proteolytic products; however, the pattern could not be changed by addition of molybdate, leupeptin, or phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride. The pattern was reproducible in experiments done at different intervals of time or when rechromatofocusing. The peaks presented different isoelectric points: peak A, pH 6.8; peak B, pH 6.0. Also, they had different DNA binding abilities: peak A bound quantitatively to DNA, while peak B bound only 20%. Peak A was always present in tumors responsive to ovariectomy, a fact that suggests this ER component could be a marker for the responsiveness to hormonal therapy.
Acute effects of ethanol on kainate receptors in cultured hippocampal neurons.

Background: Kainate receptors are a subclass of ionotropic glutamate receptors that regulate excitability and mediate synaptic transmission and plasticity in the hippocampus. The acute effects of ethanol on these receptors are not completely understood. Methods: The acute effects of ethanol on pharmacologically isolated kainate receptor-mediated currents were studied in cultured hippocampal neurons obtained from neonatal rats. Whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological techniques were used for these studies. LY303070 (GYKI-53784), a potent AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid) receptor-selective noncompetitive antagonist, was used to isolate kainate currents. Results: Kainate receptor-mediated currents corresponded to 7% of the total non-N-methyl-d-aspartate (non-NMDA) currents in these neurons and were reduced to 24% of control values in the presence of 15 μM lanthanum. These kainate receptor-mediated currents were significantly inhibited by ethanol concentrations of 50 mM or more. Under our recording conditions, ethanol inhibited non-NMDA receptor- and NMDA receptor-mediated currents to a similar extent as kainate receptor-mediated currents. Western blot analysis indicated that glutamate receptor-5 and -6/7 subunits, and kainic acid-2 subunits are expressed in these cultured hippocampal neurons. Conclusions: The present results suggest that kainate receptors are important targets for the actions of ethanol in the central nervous system.
High-Resolution Functional Quantization

Suppose a function of N real source variables X1 N = (X1, X2, ..., XN) is desired at a destination constrained to receive a limited number of bits. If the result of evaluating the function, Y = G(X1 N), can be itself encoded, this is the optimal strategy-the origin of Y becomes irrelevant to the communication problem. We consider two alternative scenarios: distributed quantization, in which each Xi must be separately encoded; and linear transform coding of X1 N . Optimal fixed- and variable-rate scalar quantizers are derived under the conventional assumptions of high-resolution quantization theory, and we find optimal transforms for transform coding. For certain classes of functions, examples demonstrate large improvements over using quantizers designed to minimize distortion of the Xis.
Factors Influencing the Quality of a-Si:H Films Deposited by the “HOT WIRE” Technique

Device quality a-Si:H has been deposited at 3 A/s using the “hot wire” technique with 1% SiH4 in He as a source gas. To achieve this deposition rate despite the high dilution, the filament was positioned at 1–2 cm from the substrate. This short distance introduces a large non-uniformity across the substrate in the deposition rate as well as in the film properties. This experimental fact was used to analyze which factors in the deposition determine film quality. We find that radiation from the filament is not an important factor. Data taken from samples deposited at various distances, pressures and flows suggest that the film quality is influenced by radical reactions with SiH4. However, this assumption alone predicts too strong a pressure dependence. The influence of deposition rate as an additional factor can explain the results.
Exploring psychosocial pathways between neighbourhood characteristics and stroke in older adults: the cardiovascular health study

Objectives: to investigate whether psychosocial pathways mediate the association between neighbourhood socioeconomic disadvantage and stroke. Methods: prospective cohort study with a follow-up of 11.5 years. Setting: the Cardiovascular Health Study, a longitudinal population-based cohort study of older adults ≥65 years. Measurements: the primary outcome was adjudicated incident ischaemic stroke. Neighbourhood socioeconomic status (NSES) was measured using a composite of six census-tract variables. Psychosocial factors were assessed with standard measures for depression, social support and social networks. Results: of the 3,834 white participants with no prior stroke, 548 had an incident ischaemic stroke over the 11.5-year follow-up. Among whites, the incident stroke hazard ratio (HR) associated with living in the lowest relative to highest NSES quartile was 1.32 (95% CI = 1.01–1.73), in models adjusted for individual SES. Additional adjustment for psychosocial factors had a minimal effect on hazard of incident stroke (HR = 1.31, CI = 1.00–1.71). Associations between NSES and stroke incidence were not found among African-Americans (n = 785) in either partially or fully adjusted models. Conclusions: psychosocial factors played a minimal role in mediating the effect of NSES on stroke incidence among white older adults.
Optimized combined-clustering methods for finding replicated criminal websites

To be successful, cybercriminals must figure out how to scale their scams. They duplicate content on new websites, often staying one step ahead of defenders that shut down past schemes. For some scams, such as phishing and counterfeit goods shops, the duplicated content remains nearly identical. In others, such as advanced-fee fraud and online Ponzi schemes, the criminal must alter content so that it appears different in order to evade detection by victims and law enforcement. Nevertheless, similarities often remain, in terms of the website structure or content, since making truly unique copies does not scale well. In this paper, we present a novel optimized combined clustering method that links together replicated scam websites, even when the criminal has taken steps to hide connections. We present automated methods to extract key website features, including rendered text, HTML structure, file structure, and screenshots. We describe a process to automatically identify the best combination of such attributes to most accurately cluster similar websites together. To demonstrate the method’s applicability to cybercrime, we evaluate its performance against two collected datasets of scam websites: fake escrow services and high-yield investment programs (HYIPs). We show that our method more accurately groups similar websites together than those existing general-purpose consensus clustering methods.
Polynomial parametrization for the solutions of Diophantine equations and arithmetic groups

A polynomial parametrization for the group of integer two-by-two matrices with determinant one is given, solving an old open problem of Skolem and Beurkers. It follows that, for many Diophantine equations, the integer solutions and the primitive solutions admit polynomial parametrizations.
Framing breast cancer: Building an agenda through online advocacy and fundraising

Abstract Using qualitative content analysis, this study employs agenda building and framing to examine e-mail messages from Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Komen Advocacy Alliance to determine strategies for communicating about breast cancer and inspiring involvement in nonprofit advocacy and fundraising efforts. Three types of messages, nine frames, and various tactics emerged among 50 messages sent during 1 year. Theoretical implications and practical applications for public relations and fundraising professionals are discussed.