cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cold Wars and Porous Borders

Examined in this chapter is the rise of instrumental rationality alongside the Cold War. Specifically, I look at the films The Third Man and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold and the novel One Lonely Night to examine the attempt to justify actions because of the perceived threat of the other’s evil possibilities. I show how the spies dealt with in this chapter are unable to decipher the intentions of their interlocutor, leading to what will become an ironic postmodern stance toward truth and information. Finally, I address Nicholson Baker’s recent work Baseless, in which he attempts to discover if the United States used biological weapons during the Korean War. Through his rigorous attempts to answer a straightforward question, I show the deep connection between the birth of the National Security State during the Cold War and our contemporary society.
Tame Topology and O-minimal Structures: DEFINABLE SPACES AND QUOTIENTS

Introduction Up till now our definable sets were always given as subsets of an ambient space R m , a very convenient restriction that has served us well. In this final chapter we want to break out of this restricted setting, and consider also, say, projective space, and its “definable” subspaces, more generally, spaces that are not given as subsets of R m , but locally look like definable subsets of R m . To stay within the context of “spaces of finite type” we require a covering of the spaces of interest by only finitely many “affine” definable patches. This idea is carried out in detail in Section 1. The main result of this section, theorem (1.8), generalizes a theorem of Robson for semialgebraic spaces, to the effect that a “definable space” (obtained by gluing finitely many affine definable sets) is isomorphic to an affine definable set if and only if the space is regular , a separation condition that is easily verified in many situations of interest. In Section 2 we consider a related construction, namely that of taking the quotient space X/E of a definable set X by a definable equivalence relation E on X . (Definably gluing finitely many definable sets can be viewed as a special case of this construction, but is better treated separately, as we do in Section 1.) We ask when X/E can be realized as an ordinary definable set, and are particularly interested in the case that E is “definably proper” over X .
Identifying Fuzzy Rule-Based Models Using Orthogonal Transformation and Backpropagation

Publisher Summary This chapter introduces an orthogonal-transformation-based method for rule selection. This method is used in combination with the well-known backpropagation (BP) learning algorithm in neural-network modeling. Initially, an oversized fuzzy model that consists of a large number of fuzzy rules is trained using the BP algorithm. Unlike conventional methods where multiple iterations are usually required to find the “optimal” number of fuzzy rules, the proposed method is a noniterative procedure. It starts with an oversized rule base, and then removes redundant or less important fuzzy rules through a “one-pass” operation. Therefore, this method is computationally less expensive compared to the conventional methods, especially when the number of input variables is large. Moreover, this method is extremely robust numerically and can be implemented using some well-established numerical computation packages. Then singular value decomposition (SVD) and QR with column-pivoting algorithm is used to identify and remove redundant fuzzy rules. This results in a reduced fuzzy model that has a better generalizing ability. The reduced model is trained using the BP algorithm with initial parameter values determined in the oversized model. The approach is demonstrated using two nonlinear system modeling examples.
Impact of the number of blood pressure measurements on blood pressure classification in US adults: NHANES 1999-2008

Clinical guidelines recommend averaging ≥ 2 blood pressure (BP) measurements on each visit. Only one BP is measured on many clinical visits, especially if the value is <120/<80 mm Hg, ie, normal. The impact of this practice on accurate assignment of BP category is incompletely defined. Data were analyzed from 22,641 adults 18 years and older who had 3 BP readings in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999-2008. BP category defined by initial measurement was compared with the category determined by mean of the first and second, first through third, and second and third readings. Among 8553 nonhypertensive patients with initial BP <120/<80 mm Hg, 2.9%, 3.3%, and 6.7%, respectively, were reclassified as prehypertensive, ie, BP 120-139/80-89 mm Hg, and two patients as stage 1 hypertension (140-159/90-99 mm Hg). In 733 treated hypertensive patients with initial BP <120/<80 mm Hg, 5.1%-8.9% were reclassified as prehypertensive and only one patient as hypertensive. Among nonhypertensive and hypertensive patients with initial BP in the prehypertensive range, 8.0%-23.6% were reclassified as normal. Among stage 1 and 2 hypertensive patients based on initial BP, 18.2%-33.5% were reclassified to lower BP categories. By multivariable logistic regression, older age and higher systolic and diastolic BP were associated with reclassification to a lower BP category. In nonhypertensive and hypertensive patients with normal initial BP values, one BP measurement appears adequate as <10% are re-classified as prehypertensive and <0.5% as hypertensive. In contrast, patients with an initial BP above normal are often reclassified to a lower category, which supports recommendations for additional measurements.
Extra-Legal White Washes

Do class action and other high profile lawsuits change corporate social behavior and create corporate social responsibility? While the answer is decidedly mixed, the litigation literature focuses on measures of legal compliance. Yet compliance is only one piece of the puzzle. In addition to choosing a compliance strategy, corporate actors can also deploy extra-legal behavior to respond to high profile litigation. This extra-legal behavior, by which I mean action taken in the shadow of the law, deserves additional scrutiny. Many have written about how litigation or regulation or the threat thereof can spark self regulation, but corporations manage a large toolbox of extra-legal tools of which self regulation is only one. This article identifies and investigates a different extra-legal response- the white wash. To take up this challenge of theorizing corporations’ extra-legal toolbox, this paper begins by briefly explaining the interaction of reputation and corporate wrongdoing. I then provide a multi-element definition of an extra-legal white wash. As no uniform definition of “washing” yet exists, this article offers a useful focal point to unite the disparate studies across disciplines and substantive legal areas. In order to explore the underpinnings of a specific type of a white wash, this article highlights Wal-Mart’s response to the Dukes class action litigation as a potential example of an extra-legal white wash. This includes a critical look at some recently undertaken policies and practices in the areas of hiring, promotion, and women’s issues more generally. Finally, this paper addresses the normative implications of extra-legal white washing. If one believes an underlying grievance is legitimate, then extra-legal white washing seems inherently problematic. When such extra-legal white washing ultimately succeeds in changing the conversation, the hypocrisy may constitute an additional, though non-legally cognizable, harm to the aggrieved. Notwithstanding these very real harms, this paper also identifies some conditions under which normatively desirable extra-legal white washing is possible and may even grow to address the underlying grievances. The paper concludes by noting the role law has to play in not only instigating extra-legal white washes, but in regulating them as well. It speaks to the larger potential of and need for access to robust substantive law to identify and remedy grievances.
Thematic Mapper radiometric correction research and development results and performance

The present paper has the objective to discuss three modifications made to the Thematic Mapper Image Processing System (TIPS) radiometric correction process during the R&D period, before turnover of the Landsat Ground Segment to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The R&D period was to enhance the correction performance of the ground processing of Thematic Mapper (TM) data, taking into account the correction of sensor anomalies. In the context of a brief review of the major steps in TM radiometric correction, a description is provided of the approaches employed to overcome the effects of the Landsat-5 light leak and the saturated calibration lamp states. Attention is also given to scene content correction limitations, and a performance bench mark.
Volatilization of Chemicals from Drinking Water to Indoor Air: The Role of Residential Washing Machines

Previous research has indicated that residential washing machines are potential sources of pollution due to the associated use of chemicals found in consumer products, for example, ethanol in laundry detergent and chlorine in bleach. Washing machines may also emit hazardous air pollutants found in contaminated drinking water. To better understand the extent and impact of chemical emissions from tap water, 26 experiments were completed using a residential washing machine and a cocktail of chemical tracers representing a wide range of physicochemical properties. Variable operating conditions for these experiments included water temperature, amount of clothes present in the machine, water volume, and level of washwater agitation. Chemical stripping efficiencies and mass transfer coefficients were determined during each cycle (fill, wash, and rinse) of a normal washing machine event. Headspace ventilation rates were determined using an isobutylene tracer gas. Mass transfer rates were significantly influenced by operating parameters as exhibited by a wide range of chemical stripping efficiencies. Stripping efficiencies ranged from 0.74 to 36% for acetone, 8.2 to 99% for toluene, 10 to 99% for ethylbenzene, and 6.9 to 100% for cyclohexane.
Direct determination of mercury in solid algal cells by direct-current argon-plasma emission spectrometry with sample introduction by electrothermal vaporization

A study on the use of electrothermal vaporization for introduction of solid samples into a direct-current plasma is presented. The solid samples investigated were milligram masses of an alga exposed to various mercury solutions. The results are independent of the algal mass in the 0.6–9 mg range, and give acceptable calibration curves up to 20 mg of mercury absorbed on 5-mg masses of the alga; the relative standard deviation was 7.4% for nine successive samples of 100μg of mercury absorbed by a mass of approximately 3 mg of algal cells. Various mercury compounds gave more than one peak, with different appearance times. Addition of sulphur-containing algal cells or cysteine modified the mercury signal, making it the same (for the compounds tested) irrespective of the mercury compound originally present.
Matrix converter-fed ASDs

In this paper, a new ride-through module for a matrix converter has been proposed. The proposed module has been shown to maintain the rotor flux and synchronization between the motor and matrix converter during momentary power interruption. The ride-through system for matrix converter consists of two parts they are conventional matrix converter module and add-on ride through module. The principle of operation and advantages of matrix converter-fed ASDs are discussed in this paper.
Effects of operational parameters on cake formation of CaSO4 in nanofiltration

Inorganic fouling is one of the major limitations of nanofiltration (NF) application in drinking water treatment. In this study, we report the effect of operating parameters on the fouling of NF membranes by CaSO4 in terms of cake growth at membrane surface under various operating conditions. Increasing operating pressure and decreasing crossflow velocity promote CaSO4 nucleation and crystallization, thus enhance membrane fouling. The flux decline and its dynamics due to the change of operating parameters are assessed quantitatively based on a resistance model. Applied filtration pressure is found to have the most dominant impact on the inorganic fouling. It is shown that the filtration resistance caused by the formation and growth of CaSO4 cake on membrane surface is dependent on operating parameters.
New fossil platyrrhine tali from the early miocene of Argentina

Five platyrrhine tali have been recovered from early Miocene localities in the Pinturas Formation of Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. These new fossil tali show overall greater similarities to the slightly older Gaiman talus attributed to Dolichocebus gaimanensis than to tali of the younger primate taxa from La Venta, Colombia. The smallest and oldest talus from the Pinturas Formation displays features similar to the extant atelines and Pithecia, and is provisionally referred to Soriacebus ameghinorum. The four larger Pinturas tali are provisionally referred to Carlocebus cf. carmenensis, and most resemble tali of the extant small-bodied cebids and callitrichids. The differences in talar morphology exhibited by these two genera suggest that Soriacebus had a more derived locomotor repertoire than Carlocebus, which included more climbing and possibly suspensory behaviors.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS OF HAND PREFERENCE VERSUS HAND GRIP PERFORMANCE

Hand-grip strength, measured by a hand dynamometer, was compared with hand preference for writing in a sample of 173 male and female undergraduate students. Hand preference and performance correlat...
Use of stone brush for treatment of impacted stones in association with extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy.

Abstract A new device is described which enhances the treatment of impacted stones in associationwith the extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy. This technique may result in decreased number of shocks and increased efficiency, as well as, enhance outpatient treatment.
Characterization of serum-independent polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotactic factors produced by Propionibacterium acnes.

The size and production of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) chemotactic factors byPropionibacterium acnes has been studied. All eight strains ofP. acnes which were tested liberated PMN chemotactic factors in their growth culture media. The factor(s) produced by one strain, 6919, were studied in greater depth. The PMN response was proportional to the dose of culture supernatant and chemotactic activity increased with the duration ofP. acnes culture. The neutrophil migration towards culture supernatants was chemotactic, with a slight stimulation of random migration by 72-h supernatants. The size of the chemotactic molecules was studied through dialysis, ultrafiltration, and Sephadex G-25 chromatography of 72-h supernatants. Low-molecular-weight chemotactic factors were found to be predominant by each method of size determination.
Colonization of Three Maple Species by Asian Longhorned Beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, in Two Mixed-Hardwood Forest Stands

Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky), is an invasive insect that has successfully established multiple times in North America. To investigate host colonization and reproductive success (exit holes/eggs), two ALB infested forest stands were sampled in central Massachusetts, USA. Infested Acer platanoides L., Acer rubrum L., and Acer saccharum Marsh. were felled, bucked into 1 m sections and dissected to determine indications of ALB infestations, such as presence of life stages or signs of damage on trees. ALB damage was also aged on a subset of trees to determine the earliest attacks on the three Acer species. In one stand, ALB oviposition was significantly higher on the native A. rubrum and A. saccharum than the exotic A. platanoides. In the second stand, ALB oviposition was significantly higher and cumulative reproductive success was higher on A. rubrum than A. platanoides or A. saccharum. An A. saccharum had the earliest signs of attack that occurred in 2006. Acer rubrum (2007) and A. platanoides (2010) were colonized shortly thereafter. Overall, ALB was more successful in A. rubrum, where adults emerged from 53% and 64% of trees in each stand, compared to A. platanoides (11% and 18%) or A. saccharum (14% and 9%).
Parallel trapping of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with optoelectronic tweezers

Here we report the use of optoelectronic tweezers and dynamic virtual electrodes to address multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with trap stiffness values of approximately 50 fN/μm. Both high-speed translation (>200 μm/s) of individual-MWCNTs and two-dimensional trapping of MWCNT ensembles are achieved using 100,000 times less optical power density than single beam laser tweezers. Modulating the virtual electrode’s intensity enables tuning of the MWCNT ensemble’s number density by an order of magnitude on the time scale of seconds promising a broad range of applications in MWCNT science and technology.
A genome scan in multigenerational families with dyslexia : identification of a novel locus on chromosome 2q that contributes to phonological decoding efficiency

Dyslexia is a common and complex developmental disorder manifested by unexpected difficulty in learning to read. Multiple different measures are used for diagnosis, and may reflect different biological pathways related to the disorder. Impaired phonological decoding (translation of written words without meaning cues into spoken words) is thought to be a core deficit. We present a genome scan of two continuous measures of phonological decoding ability: phonemic decoding efficiency (PDE) and word attack (WA). PDE measures both accuracy and speed of phonological decoding, whereas WA measures accuracy alone. Multipoint variance component linkage analyses (VC) and Markov chain Monte-Carlo (MCMC) multipoint joint linkage and segregation analyses were performed on 108 families. A strong signal was observed on chromosome 2 for PDE using both VC (LOD=2.65) and MCMC methods (intensity ratio (IR)=32.1). The IR is an estimate of the ratio of the posterior to prior probability of linkage in MCMC analysis. The chromosome 2 signal was not seen for WA. More detailed mapping with additional markers provided statistically significant evidence for linkage of PDE to chromosome 2, with VC-LOD=3.0 and IR=59.6 at D2S1399. Parametric analyses of PDE, using a model obtained by complex segregation analysis, provided a multipoint maximum LOD=2.89. The consistency of results from three analytic approaches provides strong evidence for a locus on chromosome 2 that influences speed but not accuracy of phonological decoding.
The hydriding and dehydriding kinetics of FeTi and Fe0.9TiMn0.1

Abstract The rates of hydriding and dehydriding from FeTi and Fe0.9TiMn0.1 were determined and compared with those of LaNi5. Measurements were obtained under isothermal and isobaric conditions and at constant-pressure thermodynamic forces. Under these conditions hydriding and dehydriding rates were in the order: LaNi5 Fe0.9TiMn0.1 FeTi. It was believed that the observed kinetic differences might be due to differences in hydride stability, surface composition, and/or differences in particle sizes among the three alloys. To determine if this was the case, particle size data were collected with a laser light-scattering spectrometer and surface analyses were done by Auger spectroscopy. Results indicated that hydride stability and particle size effects were not the most important factors in determining the observed reaction rates. Indications were that the presence of Ni clusters on LaNi5 and Mn clusters on Fe0.9TiMn0.1 may enhance, at least in part, the rates of hydrogen absorption and desorption from these alloys.
Erythrocyte changes in the hibernating woodchuck (Marmota monax)

Abstract Active woodchucks were maintained at 23 °C with a photoperiod of LD 12:12. Hibernating woodchucks were kept at 10 °C with a photoperiod of LD 8:16. Blood was collected and the erythrocytes were counted and measured. The data showed an increase in red blood cell count, a decrease in erythrocyte diameter and a decrease in mean corpuscular diameter during hibernation. The hematocrit was the same in both the hibernating and active woodchucks. It would appear that there are a greater number of smaller cells present in the circulation of the hibernating woodchuck as compared to that of the active woodchuck. This may result from the combined effects of increased life span, decreased destruction and continued, but slowed, production of red blood cells.
Differences in hypothalamic serotonin between estrous phases and gender: an in vivo microdialysis study

Abstract The aim of the present study was to assess whether there are gender differences in (1) levels of extracellular serotonin (5-HT) in the forebrain, and (2) the effect on 5-HT of a reuptake inhibitor, paroxetine, or a releasing drug, fenfluramine. In vivo microdialysis was used to measure 5-HT in the hypothalamus of male and regularly cycling female rats. Hypothalamic 5-HT was significantly lower in estrous females (0.83±0.05 pg/sample, n=33) than in male rats (1.04±0.06 pg, n=38). Levels in diestrous females (0.98±0.09 pg, n=38) were not significantly different from males. Paroxetine (1 mg/kg) increased hypothalamic 5-HT in males, and diestrous and estrous females to ∼2 pg/sample. However, the increase in hypothalamic 5-HT produced by a maximally effective dose of paroxetine (10 mg/kg) was significantly greater in male rats and during diestrous than during estrous. d , l -Fenfluramine (10 mg/kg) evoked an increase in extracellular 5-HT to ∼15 pg/sample in all groups. A higher dose of d , l -fenfluramine (20 mg/kg) produced a significantly greater increase in hypothalamic 5-HT in males than in females during estrous or diestrous. These results are consistent with other evidence that during estrous, when rats are responding to peak levels of estrogen and progesterone, 5-HT release is decreased.
Paclitaxel-Loaded Expansile Nanoparticles Delay Local Recurrence in a Heterotopic Murine Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Model

Background Surgical resection remains the most effective treatment option for patients with early stage non-small cell lung cancer; however, comorbidities and poor pulmonary reserve often limit the extent of resection. Limited resections are associated with a twofold to threefold increase in locoregional recurrence, suggesting that microscopic disease remains near the resection margin. We hypothesized that local delivery of paclitaxel through 100-nm expansile polymer nanoparticles (pax-eNP) immediately after tumor resection could prevent local recurrence. Methods Primary tumors, initiated on the dorsum of C57BL/6J mice through subcutaneous injection of 750,000 Lewis lung carcinoma cells, were excised when tumor volume reached 300 mm 3 . After resection, animals were randomized to receive 300 μg paclitaxel intravenously or as pax-eNP locally at the tumor resection site versus unloaded eNP or saline controls. Results In all mice receiving saline, unloaded eNP, or paclitaxel intravenously, visible local tumor recurrence developed at a median of 6 days. In contrast, tumor recurrence after pax-eNP was delayed to 10 days (pax-eNP versus all other groups, Kaplan-Meier, p p Conclusions The pax-eNP placed at the time of surgical resection delayed local tumor recurrence and modestly prolonged survival in a murine Lewis lung carcinoma recurrence model.
THE LIMITATIONS OF A ‘ PROCRUSTEAN ’ APPROACH TO THE OPTIMIZATION OF MAN-MACHINE SYSTEMS

Two rather different human factor approaches may be distinguished in efforts to optimize the performance of man-machine systems. One seeks, through the training of the operator, to adjust the human component to the requirements of the system. The other attempts to enhance system performance by adjusting the mechanical elements to fit the man Although much has been accomplished through training programmes, this approach is limited. In the first place, no amount of effort devoted to training operators can make the performance of some man—machine systems adequate to their tasks. A second limitation of the training approach is just beginning to be appreciated. In many instances it is possible, through operator training, to eliminate performance differences among man—machine systems of different intrinsic merit. This might lead one to choose an inferior design in the place of a better one since, under normal operation, they would all appear to be equivalent. However, if the operators were stressed, the fundame...
Policy Implications of Research on Nurse Staffing and Quality of Patient Care

This article provides a comprehensive overview of nursing workforce studies, examines current efforts to investigate the relationship between hospital nurse staffing and patient outcomes that are s...
Asymmetric Frequency Locked Loop (AFLL) for adaptive clock generation in a 28nm SPARC M6 processor

In order to minimize the impact of on-chip Ldi/dt noise on power and performance, Oracle's SPARC M6 processor features an Asymmetric Frequency Locked Loop (AFLL) that dynamically adjusts chip frequency. It achieves 15% improved noise immunity by reacting to the voltage noise asymmetrically through the use of a pair of DCO's that accurately track the response of critical paths. The AFLL is implemented in 28nm CMOS process in 0.045mm2 of area, dissipating 14mW, and reducing jitter by 50%.
First-principles simulation of the interaction between adamantane and an atomic-force-microscope tip

A first-principles calculation is performed to investigate the interaction between adamantane and an atomic-force-microscope tip. By holding the tip at different distances from adamantane, three scans across two surfaces, one with a carbon atom at the center and the four other equivalent atoms at the corners, and the other with three equivalent carbon atoms in the front and three other atoms in the back forming a hexagon shape, reveal the detailed morphology of adamantane. For the first scan surface, a huge potential energy change is observed when the tip is close to adamantane, which results from the strong interaction from two hydrogen atoms attached to the center carbon atom. On the second scan surface, a radial scan shows the maximum force constant of $2\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\text{hartrees}∕{\mathrm{\AA{}}}^{2}$. This is proof of the hardness of adamantane. The rotational scan along the second surface reveals a systematic change in the potential energy as the tip is moved away from adamantane. Due to the existence of two types of carbon atoms in adamantane, the original potential maxima are shifted 60\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} to new maxima. Between these maxima, there is a flat region. Finally, an $x\text{\ensuremath{-}}y$ force scan over the above two surfaces is performed, where two distinctive images of hydrogen atoms are found. These results are detectable experimentally.
Sonographic incidence of deep venous thrombosis contralateral to hip or knee replacement surgery.

PURPOSE: This study assesses the sonographic incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) contralateral to and the venographic incidence ipsilateral to hip or knee replacement surgery and the role of sonography in routine surveillance. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated 178 consecutive patients with sonography of the femoropopliteal venous systems of the contralateral lower extremity and venography of the ipsilateral lower extremity on days 3 and 4, respectively, after total hip or knee replacement surgery. RESULTS: No cases of acute DVT and only 1 case of chronic DVT isolated to the popliteal system were identified by sonography in the contralateral extremity. In the ipsilateral extremity, venography identified 26 patients with acute DVT (3 femoropopliteal, 21 calf, and 2 concurrent femoropopliteal and calf). CONCLUSIONS: Routine sonographic evaluation of the lower extremity contralateral to hip or knee replacement surgery is not cost-effective because of the extremely low incidence of detectable acute thrombus.
Effect of alloying materials on thermal stability and TCR-value of resistor films with Ta-basis

The stability of pure tantalum is not high enough for high precision resistors. The stability of alloyed tantalum (TaAl) or Ta compound (TaN) films are suitable, but their temperature coefficients are relatively high. Experiments were made to prepare TaTi alloys for improving the TCR value and at the same time keeping the excellent stability. The determination of characteristic data of thermal stability from in situ measurements were carried out with computer control. A calculation method was developed to determine the parabolic rate coefficient of oxidation, the activation energy and the probable formal kinetic relationship fromt, T andR □ data.
Stability limitations on high-beta Tokamaks

Magnetohydrodynamic instabilities limit the material that can be contained in a tokamak. The nature of the dangerous kink and ballooning modes is investigated for a typical configuration. In high-beta systems the most dangerous instabilities are ballooning modes that form large convective cells concentrated in regions of unfavorable magnetic field-line curvature.
Can the subaltern sing? Music, language, and the politics of voice in early twentieth-century south India:

Beginning in the late nineteenth century, ‘music’ and ‘literature’ began to emerge as two separate fields in south India, allowing a new kind of relationship between music and lan-guage to be imagined: one of analogy, rather than direct connection, contiguity, or co-mingling. This culminated in the twentieth-century canonisation of Tamil literature and Karnatic classical music as categories mutually opposed in their orientation to the ‘mother tongue’. Such shifts enabled the emergence, in the 1930s and 1940s, of new discourses on music and language in the context of the Tamil Icai [music] movement.
Immersing Students in the Culture of Disability Through Service Learning

This article provides a description of service learning implemented in an introductory special education course focused on the culture of disability. Collaborating with liaisons from five community...
Discovery of 1,4-Didydroxy-2-naphthoate Prenyltransferase Inhibitors: New Drug Leads for Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Positive Pathogens

Since utilization of menaquinone in the electron transport system is a characteristic of Gram-positive organisms, the 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoate prenyltransferase (MenA) inhibitors 1a and 2a act as selective antibacterial agents against organisms such as methicillin-resistant Stapylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), and Mycobacterium spp. Growth of drug-resistant Gram-positive organisms was sensitive to the MenA inhibitors, indicating that menaquinone synthesis is a valid new drug target in Gram-positive organisms.
Human cardiac myosin Biochemical and structural characterization

Abstract Myosin was extracted from human papillary muscle obtained during prosthetic replacement of mitral valves in patients with rheumatic heart disease. The following physiochemical data were obtained from the human papillary muscle myosin and compared to results from normal canine ventricular muscle myosin obtained by identical techniques: ATPase activity, helical content, sulfhydryl group content, intrinsic viscosity, sedimentation coefficient, molecular weight and amino acid content. Significant differences were found in ATPase activity, helical content and the amino acid content. The difference noted in three-dimensional structure of the cardiac myosins was interpreted in terms of the difference in the content of the helix disturbing amino acids threonine, serine, proline and valine.
Glucagon degradation by human mononuclear cells

Degradation of 125I-iodoglucagon by human mononuclear cell preparations including one containing 18%–27% monocytes, one consisting of 97% pure monocytes and one consisting of 98% lymphocytes was examined. Intact cells were incubated with 125I-iodoglucagon and degradation assessed by measuring an increase in trichloroacetic acid soluble products or in non-immunoprecipitable products. The preparation consisting of intact lymphocytes did not degrade glucagon. Glucagon was degraded by preparations containing monocytes and this degradation increased with time. No difference between monocyte degradation as measured by trichloroacetic acid or immunoprecipitation was found. Degradation by intact monocytes and by mononuclear homogenates increased sixfold from 4°C to 37°C. Subcellular fractionation demonstrated that the majority of the neutral glucagon degrading activity was in the 100,000 g supernatant (cytosol). Kinetic analyses gave Km values of 1.1×10-5 mol/1, 7.5×10-6 mol/1, and 1.2×10-5 mol/1 for glucagon degradation by intact mononuclear cells, homogenates, and cytosol, respectively. Inhibitor studies indicated a sulphydryl dependent enzyme was involved in glucagon degradation by both intact cells and cytosol. The monocyte appeared to be the cell responsible for degradation of glucagon by mononuclear cell preparations. The degradation of glucagon under physiological conditions by intact monocytes was mediated by a neutral proteolytic enzyme, primarily localized in the cytosol.
Development and Diversity

Cells, Embryos, and Evolution. Toward a Cellular and Developmental Understanding of Phenotypic Variation and Evolutionary Adaptability. JOHN GERHART and MARC KIRSCHNER. Blackwell Science, Cambridge, MA, 1997. xiv, 642 pp., illus., + plates. Paper, $69.95 or £29.50. ISBN 0-86542-574-4.
Lab-on-a-chip sensor for detection of highly electronegative heavy metals by anodic stripping voltammetry

This work describes development of a lab-on-a-chip sensor for electrochemical detection of highly electronegative heavy metals such as manganese and zinc by anodic stripping voltammetry. The sensor consists of a three-electrode system, with a bismuth working electrode, a Ag/AgCl reference electrode, and a Au auxiliary electrode. Hydrolysis at the auxiliary electrode is a critical challenge in such electrochemical sensors as its onset severely limits the ability to detect electronegative metals. The bismuth working electrode is used due to its comparable negative detection window and reduced toxicity with respect to a conventional mercury electrode. Through optimization of the sensor layout and the working electrode surface, effects of hydrolysis were substantially reduced and the potential window was extended to the -0.3 to -1.9 V range (vs. Ag/AgCl reference electrode), which is far more negative than what is possible with conventional Au, Pt, or carbon electrodes. The described lab-on-a-chip sensor for the first time permits reliable and sensitive detection of the highly electronegative manganese. The favorable performance of the bismuth electrode coupled with its environmentally-friendly nature make the described sensor attractive for applications where disposable chips are desirable. With further development and integrated sample preparation, the lab-on-a-chip may be converted into a point-of-care platform for monitoring heavy metals in blood (e.g., assessment of manganese exposure).
Review of thirteen years of CTS winery laboratory collaborative data.

Data from 13 years (78 wines) of wine industry laboratory proficiency testing were reviewed. After outlier removal, within-laboratory precision (repeatability) and across-laboratory precision (reproducibility) were determined for measurements of alcohol, titratable acidity, volatile acidity, total SO2, free SO2, malic acid, specific gravity, pH, residual sugar, glucose plus fructose, and absorbance at 420 and 520 nm. Reproducibility was 3.6 to 57.8 times higher than repeatability. Reproducibility was evaluated with Horwitz ratios (HorRat); only alcohol, titratable acid, and total SO2 had acceptable values (mean HorRat <2). Measurement z scores demonstrated non-normal distributions, particularly for specific gravity, likely due to confounding with density. Reproducibility did not vary significantly over time, with exceptions: imprecision of ethanol measurements decreased (improved) by 0.0084% v/v per year, while the imprecision of titratable acidity, pH, and malic acid measurements increased by 0.0089 g/L as tartaric, 0.0008 pH units, and 0.13 g malic acid/L per year, respectively. The imprecision of reproducibility and repeatability generally increased with analyte concentration, with notable exceptions for alcohol (both), volatile acidity (reproducibility), and total SO2 (repeatability). The methods or instruments used to determine alcohol, titratable acidity, free and total SO2, and volatile acidity changed significantly over time. Significant differences were observed among techniques for many analytes, which can be rationalized by attribution to well-known matrix effects manageable in a properly run method; e.g., higher apparent concentrations of alcohol by boiling point methods in high-sugar matrices. Evaluation of method accuracy was not possible due to the lack of wine reference materials with known true values. Results demonstrate the need for industry-wide improvement in analytical performance for some assays, and the potential benefit of adopting criteria guidelines for method performance.
Wave propagation in a micro-isotropic, micro-elastic solid

Abstract This is an extension of Koh's work[1] on micro-elastic solids. Restrictions on the elastic moduli have been obtained from the positive definiteness of the strain energy function. These restrictions are applied to the dispersion relations of plane harmonic waves propagating in the medium. It is found that all the velocities of propagation have real values above certain cut-off frequencies. The medium theoretically allows the propagation of twelve waves, eleven dispersive and one non-dispersive, with six distinct velocities of propagation and three cut-off frequencies.
Ligand replacement study at the His120 site of purple CuA azurin.

The CuA center is a dinuclear Cu2S2(Cys) electron transfer center found in cytochrome c oxidase and nitrous oxide reductase. In a previous investigation of the equatorial histidine ligands’ effect on the reduction potential, electron transfer and spectroscopic properties of the CuA center, His120 in the engineered CuA azurin was mutated to Asn, Asp, and Ala. The identical absorption and EPR spectra of these mutants indicate that a common ligand is bound to the copper center. To identify this replacement ligand, the His120Gly CuA azurin mutant was constructed and purified. Absorption and X-band EPR spectra show that His120Gly is similar to the other His120X (X=Asn, Asp, Ala) mutant proteins. Titrations with chloride, imidazole, and azide suggest that the replacement ligand is not exchangeable with exogenous ligands. The possibility of an internal amino acid acting as the replacement ligand for His120 in the His120X mutant proteins was investigated by analyzing the CuA azurin crystal structure and then converting the likely internal ligand, Asn119, to Asp, Ser, or Ala in the His120Gly mutant. The double mutants H120G/Asn119X (X=Asp, Ser, or Ala) displayed UV–Vis absorption and EPR spectra that are identical to His120Gly and the other His120X mutants, indicating that Asn119 is not the internal ligand replacing His120 in the His120X mutant proteins. These results demonstrate the remarkable stability of the dinuclear His120 mutants of CuA azurin.
Standpoint in Political Blogs: Voice, Authority, and Issues

In 2005, political commentator Susan Estrich rebuked Michael Kinsley, then-editor of the Los Angeles Times, for excluding women from the newspaper's editorial pages. She argued that Kinsley neither...
Sequential Interpenetrating Polymer Networks of Isotactic Polystyrene and Heterotactic Polystyrene

The synthesis and characterization of sequential interpenetrating polymer networks (SIPN's) of isotactic polystyrene and heterotactic polystyrene are reported in this paper. SIPN's with different cross-linking degrees or different compositions of isotactic PS networks show single Tg's in DSC thermograms, while in SEM micrographs the SIPN's exhibit a heterogeneous phase morphology.
Biogenesis, Turnover, and Mode of Action of Plant MicroRNAs

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs that control gene expression through silencing of target mRNAs. Mature miRNAs are processed from primary miRNA transcripts by the endonuclease activity of the DICER-LIKE1 (DCL1) protein complex. Mechanisms exist that allow the DCL1 complex to precisely excise the miRNA from its precursor. Our understanding of miRNA biogenesis, particularly its intersection with transcription and other aspects of RNA metabolism such as splicing, is still evolving. Mature miRNAs are incorporated into an ARGONAUTE (AGO) effector complex competent for target gene silencing but are also subjected to turnover through a degradation mechanism that is beginning to be understood. The mechanisms of miRNA target silencing in plants are no longer limited to AGO-catalyzed slicing, and the contribution of translational inhibition is increasingly appreciated. Here, we review the mechanisms underlying the biogenesis, turnover, and activities of plant miRNAs.
Characterization of the iron and nickel impurities in gaas0.6p0.4

Characterization of nickel and iron impurity centers in GaAs0.6P0.4 has been made using the technique of capacitance transients on reverse biased zinc-diffused p+n diodes. Both the nickel and iron levels have been identified by thermal hole emission having activation energies of 0.3eV and 0.58eV, respectively. Relative photoresponse measurements resulted in a threshold for optical hole emission of 0.3eV and 0.58eV, therefore, confirming the thermal hole emission measurements. Capture studies for nickel and iron centers indicated a relatively large capture cross-section and a strong electric field dependence.
Disseminating professionalism: the influence of Selden Hopkins on the USA accounting profession

This article examines the contributions of Selden Hopkins in helping to establish and institutionalize the accounting profession in the USA during the two decades before the passage of the first Ce...
The population biology of Bromus tectorum in forests: distinguishing the opportunity for dispersal from environmental restriction

With increasing elevation and corresponding changes in the macroclimate, forest zones in the Intermountain Region of western North America are often dominated in turn by Pinus ponderosa, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Abies grandis, an Thuja plicata. Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass), and introduced annual grass now abundant in the Region's steppe, is uncommon in mature stands representative of these forest zones. In order to determine whether B. tectorum is largely excluded from these forests by insufficient seed dispersal or environmental restriction(s), the grass's demography was compared in each of four years among populations experimentally-introduced into mature forests. The number of recruits did not differ among the Pinus, Pseudotsuga, and Abies sites; recruitment was however significantly lower on the coolest site dominated by Thuja. Emergence in both the low elevation Pinus and Pseudotsuga sites was about the same in autumn, winter, and spring. In the cooler, moister Abies and Thuja sites, emergence was limited to autumn and early winter. Survival in these forest sites ranged between 0 and 87%. The percentage of the total population to survive until harvest was highest in the Pseudotsuga site, intermediate in the Pinus and Abies sites, and lowest in the Thuja site. Compared with B. tectorum in the steppe, the surviving plants were small, and few produced seeds. All parents were members of either the autumn or winter cohort, and most parents produced only one seed. No seeds were produced at the Thuja site. Although phenotypic plasticity apparently contributes to the wide ecological amplitude of this grass, its growing season on these sites in most years is too short for it to reproduce. Consequently, these forest zones broadly define the current environmental limits to the distribution of cheatgrass in this portion of its new geographic range.
Internet and the lifeworld: updating Schutz's theory of mutual knowledge

Purpose – The paper seeks to understand the formation of mutual knowledge in the online world using the phenomenological framework that Alfred Schutz and his associates constructed for the examination of the lifeworld.Design/methodology/approach – This study consists of three parts: reviewing Schutz's theory of the constitution of intersubjectivity in the lifeworld; extending Schutz's analysis to the acquisition of mutual knowledge in the online world; and applying the extended version of Schutz's theory to the booming blogosphere on the internet.Findings – Schutz divided the contemporaneous lifeworld into two realms – consociates and mere contemporaries. Schutz maintained that people came to know one another based on shared life experiences through “growing older together” in the realm of consociates and based on objectified schemes of interpretation through “ideal typification” in the realm of mere contemporaries. This article extends Schutz's analysis to human interaction on the internet, showing that ...
Topical Papers on Microchip Lasers and Applications. Passively Q-Switched Microchip Lasers and Applications.

Passively Q-switched Nd: YAG microchip lasers are robust, compact, economical, all-solid-state sources of coherent, subnanosecond, multikilowatt pulses at high repetition rates. These diminutive, quasi-monolithic devices produce pulses as short as 218 ps, pulse energies up to 250μJ, and peak powers up to 565 kW. The high output intensities enable the construction of extremely compact nonlinear optical systems. The short pulses are useful for high-precision ranging using time-of-flight techniques. The short pulse durations and ideal mode properties can also be used to advantage in the characterization of materials. When focused, the output intensities are sufficient to photoablate materials, with applications in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and micromachining. The ultraviolet harmonics of the microchip laser have been used to perform fluorescence spectroscopy for a variety of applications. Systems based on the passively Q-switched microchip lasers, like the lasers themselves, are small, efficient, robust, and potentially low cost, making them ideally suited for field use.
Breakup of shear-thinning liquid jets with surfactants

Abstract In this work we consider the nonlinear dynamics of a Carreau liquid jet whose interface is covered with an insoluble surfactant. We solved the fully coupled system of governing equations that includes the two-dimensional (three-dimensional axisymmetric) continuity and momentum equations and the one-dimensional (two-dimensional axisymmetric) surfactant convection–diffusion equation using a finite element method with an adaptive mesh that conforms to the moving interface. After favorably comparing our predictions against limiting theoretical solutions, the role of the interactions between non-Newtonian and surfactant factors was investigated. The results indicate a strong synergistic interaction that plays a key role in the formation of satellite drops. Findings reported here could help reduce inefficiency and environmental pollution in various technological processes based on jet breakup such as spray drying, crop spraying and ink jet printing by controlling the formation of undesired satellite drops.