cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 3096: A novel ZIP4-NOTCH3-HDAC4 axis in ovarian cancer stem cells

High grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is one of the most deadly and heterogenic cancers. We have recently shown that ZIP4 (gene name SLC39A4), a zinc transporter, is a novel cancer stem cell (CSC) marker in HGSOC. 100-200 ZIP4+, but not ZIP4-, cells from both PE04 and PEA2 cells formed larger tumors than those from 100-200 ALDH+ cells in mice. Mechanistically, we found that ZIP4 was an upstream regulator of another CSC-marker, NOTCH3, in HGSOC cells. NOTCH3 was functionally involved in spheroid formation in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo in HGSOC. Drug-resistance is one of the main characteristics of CSCs, While ZIP4 converts drug-resistance to cisplatin (CDDP) and doxorubicin (DOX) as we reported previously, we unexpectedly found that ZIP4 induced a sensitization of HGSOC cells to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis). In particular, only those HDACis against the Class IIa HDACs showed ZIP4-dependent sensitization. ZIP4 selectively up-regulated HDAC IIa HDACs, including HDAC4 and 5, with little or no effects to HDACs in other classes. ZIP4 knockout (KO) and HDAC4 knockdown (KD) increased cell resistance to LMK-235, a selective HDAC4/5 inhibitor. LMK-235 and HDAC4 knockdown (KD) inhibited spheroid formation in vitro and tumor development in vivo. Collectively, we revealed a novel ZIP4-NOTCH3-HDAC4 axis, which is functionally involved and important in CSC-related activities in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo, and provide an innovative targeting strategy to CSC. Citation Format: Yan Xu, Qipeng Fan, Robert Emerson. A novel ZIP4-NOTCH3-HDAC4 axis in ovarian cancer stem cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 3096.
A Framework for Applied Medical Geology: Part I. The Environmental Pathways Analysis

Medical Geology provides a holistic framework to analyze the potential health effects from exposures to natural materials and to the environmental impacts of mineral resource development and chemical and nuclear waste disposal. The Environmental Pathways/Biological Impact Analysis comprises a systematic progression of analyses starting with a potential release of a contaminant into the environment, leading to population exposures and resulting health effects. This chapter describes the first part of the analyses, the Environmental Pathways Analysis, which produces an estimate of the amount of a pollutant that could reach a potentially exposed population. Typically, the amount of a pollutant that is available to affect the health of humans is less than the amount released from the source. This reduction of the amount and mobility of the contaminant in the geosphere is associated with a number of abiotic and biotic processes in the environment and is related to its geoavailability as discussed in this chapter. Different compartments within the Environmental Pathways Analysis involve many different disciplines in the physical, chemical, geological, and environmental sciences. The methods include materials analysis, laboratory studies, and theoretical predictions of the speciation and solubility of contaminants based on principles of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics, hydrogeologic modeling and field measurements, remote sensing, and spatial analysis. Analysis of the geoavailability of a contaminant provides realistic estimates of the potential exposure resulting from releases from pollutant sources. This chapter summarizes the basic concepts that underlie geoavailability and identifies key references to aid the reader in applying them to practical Medical Geology applications.
Preliminary Design of a Ramjet for Integration with Ground-Based Launch Assist

This viewgraph presentation reviews the preliminary design of a ramjet for integration with a ground based launch assist. The reasons for the use of ground-based launch assist and the proposed mechanism for a system are reviewed. The use of a Optimal Trajectory by Implicit Simulation (OTIS), to model the flight and comparison with an actual rocket trajectory is given. The OTIS system is reviewed, The benefits of a launch assist system are analyzed concluding that a launch assist can provide supersonic speeds thus allowing ignition of ramjet without an onboard compressor. This means a further reduction in total launch weight. The Ramjet study is reviewed next. This included a review of the ONX simulations, the verification of the ONX results with the use of Holloman Sled experiment data as derived from the Feasibility of Ramjet Engine Test Capability on The Holloman AFB Sled Track. The conclusion was that the ONX system was not sufficient to meet the needs for the modeling required. The GECAT (Graphical Engine Cycle Analysis Tool) is examined. The results of the GECAT simulations was verified with data from Stataltex and D21 flights. The Next steps are: to create a GECAT Model of a launch assist ramjet, to adjust the geometry to produce the desired thrust, and to survey the ramjet's performance over a range of Mach numbers. The assumptions and requirements of a launch assist ramjet are given, and the acceptable flight regimes are reviewed.
England in the Reign of Edward III: Government and communities

Monarchs never rule by themselves. They depend on agents to carry out their will. A crucial feature of medieval government was that the king's representatives were drawn from the ranks of social elites. Landlords served as royal officers, participated in decision making, and fought in the king's armies. They exercised private authority through manorial courts and public jurisdiction through franchises. Despite this overlapping of public and private power, England had produced a remarkably effective government by 1300. The landed hierarchy on which administration depended clarified itself into distinct ranks during Edward's reign. The development of the house of lords in parliament provided the basis for identifying the nobility. Individually summoned rather than elected, the peers or peerage as they came to be known were differentiated from the knights and squires who made up the gentry. Peerage simultaneously symbolized social exclusiveness and defined a constitutional role. The clergy were likewise ranked hierarchically, with the higher members – archbishops, bishops, and some abbots – comparable to peers. And these noble grades took greater pains than they had before to define the boundaries between themselves and those below. Government service corresponded to one's place in the echelon. Magnates, whether lay or ecclesiastic, generally occupied the highest positions as peers, councillors, military captains, and ministers. They played out their roles on a national stage, with the court as their focal point. County administration was the gentry's arena.
State-Space Formulas for Inner-Outer Factorization

The calculation of an inner-outer factorization for a class of stable rational matrix using state-space methods is considered.
Midlife Educational, Career, and Family Outcomes of Women Educated at Two Single-Sex Colleges

We examined midlife educational, career, and family outcomes of women who attended prestigious women's colleges in the 1960s. One college had a coeducational learning environment (CLE), the other was a single-sex environment (SLE). We hypothesized that in CLEs, exposure to men's standards of achievement might have resulted in greater educational and career status outcomes but more discrimination; in SLEs, there might have been fewer opportunities to engage with men intellectually, which could lead to lesser educational and career status outcomes, but the environment might have felt more supportive. Graduates of both colleges were very accomplished 30 years after graduation; however, those who had experienced a CLE reported more sexism and more active involvement in the women's movement than SLE graduates.
The Ohio Trust Code: The Joint Committee’s Proposal for its First Amendment

This article discusses the changes included in the proposed amendment. Generally, the Joint Committee decided to include in the amendment straightforward changes as to which there was a broad consensus. The discussion below addresses the proposals included in the amendment in the order of the sections of the Revised Code that are affected.
Glycans from streptococcal cell walls. The molecular structure and immunological properties of an antigenic glycan from Streptococcus bovis.

Abstract The molecular structure and immunological properties of an antigenic glycan from the cell wall of Streptococcus bovis , strain C3, a member of the Group D Streptococci , have been determined by methylation analysis, periodate oxidation, and hapten inhibition methods. The glycan is shown to be a tetraheteroglycan composed of 6-deoxy- l -talose, l -rhamnose, d -galactose, and d -glucuronic acid. The sugar sequence and the types of glycosidic linkages of the glycan are: a main chain of l -rhamnosyl-(1,3)- d -galactosyl- (1,2)- l -rhamnosyl-(1,3)-6-deoxy- l -talosyl-(1,3)- units with d -glucuronosyl residues attached to position 4 of the first rhamnose of each repeating unit of the main chain. The d -glucuronic acid moiety is the primary immunodeterminant group of the glycan. On the basis of hapten inhibition data, it has been concluded that the binding of the antigen to the antibody occurs at the hydroxyl groups at positions 2 and 3 and the carboxyl group at position 6 of the d -glucuronic acid moieties. The antigen has been used to prepare antiserum with anti-glucuronic acid antibodies.
An Open-Field Test of Megachile Rotundata as a Potential Pollinator in Hybrid Carrot Seed Fields

SummaryApproximately 15 000 alfalfa leafcutting bees, Megachile rotundata, were released in a 0·4-ha planting of hybrid carrots to assess their potential as pollinators. Bees began nesting soon after release and constructed more than 5000 nests in a 7-week period. However, they visited the surrounding carrol flowers only rarely, and used mostly alfalfa pollen to provision their cells. The predominant insects recorded un carrot flowers were flies, especially syrphids, which were abundant on both male-fertile and sterile varieties. Flies, rather than M. rotundata, may be a useful alternative to the honeybee for carrot pollination.
The Effects of Educational Multimedia for Scientific Signs in the Holy Quran in Improving the Creative Thinking Skills for Deaf Children

This paper investigates the role of the scientific signs in the holy Quran in improving the creative thinking skills for the deaf children using multimedia. The paper investigates if the performance made by the experimental group’s individuals is statistically significant compared with the performance made by the control group’s individuals on Torrance Test for creative thinking (fluency, flexibility, originality and the total degree) in two cases:
Physicians and Insider Trading

Although insider trading is illegal, recent high-profile cases have involved physicians and scientists who are part of corporate governance or who have access to information about clinical trials of investigational products. Insider trading occurs when a person in possession of information that might affect the share price of a company's stock uses that information to buy or sell securities--or supplies that information to others who buy or sell--when the person is expected to keep such information confidential. The input that physicians and scientists provide to business leaders can serve legitimate social functions, but insider trading threatens to undermine any positive outcomes of these relationships. We review insider-trading rules and consider approaches to securities fraud in the health care field. Given the magnitude of the potential financial rewards, the ease of concealing illegal conduct, and the absence of identifiable victims, the temptation for physicians and scientists to engage in insider trading will always be present. Minimizing the occurrence of insider trading will require robust education, strictly enforced contractual provisions, and selective prohibitions against high-risk conduct, such as participation in expert consulting networks and online physician forums, by those individuals with access to valuable inside information.
Axial Loading of a Unidirectional Composite

The behavior of a unidirectional fiber-reinforced composite subjected to axial loading is investigated. The elastic analysis of a composite containing a hexagonal array of perfectly bonded circular...
Ceramic mini-ball grid array package for high speed device

We have developed a Ceramic Mini Ball Grid Array (BGA) package for a high speed switch chip (200 MHz) application. In this paper, we describe the 0.5 mm pitch mini BGA package and the processes developed to fabricate this package. In addition, a matching ceramic socket that was developed to test the high speed switch chips is also briefly reviewed. The mini-BGA process enabled the packaging of the switch chip in a 21 mm ceramic substrate with 1521 solder ball connections. The main difference between the mini solder ball connections described here and conventional ceramic ball grid array (CBGA) packages is that 60/40 Pb/Sn eutectic solder is used in the mini-BGA package compared to 90/10 Pb/Sn solder balls used in CBGA packages.
Gender Prediction in Random Chat Networks Using Topological Network Structures and Masked Content

Social media is becoming a critical avenue for businesses today to target new customers and create brand loyalty. In order to target users effectively, companies need to know basic information about their users. However, in many cases, user profiles are either incomplete or completely wrong, and one of the most critical pieces of private information is gender. In this paper we examine the case of gender prediction in random chat networks using masked content and topological network structures. Random chat networks (e.g., Chatous.com) are significantly different from most existing social networks, because users do not get to see who they are going to talk to before they engage in a conversation, and the system itself brings users into chats together. Due to the network's random nature, users have very little information about peers in the network. Additionally, privacy is an ever growing concern in today's society, thus data analytic tools often need to work with data which has been masked to prevent a possible breach of confidential information. In the paper, we first analyze some fundamental characteristics of random chat networks when broken down by gender. Then we propose an approach for gender prediction using masked words as features and show that gender prediction performance can be boosted by incorporating network topology statistics. Finally, we will examine network statistics which are most useful for gender prediction.
The Effects of Full-Time versus Part-Time Work Experience on Earnings in "High" and "Low Atrophy" Jobs.

Abstract This study examines the effect of one aspect of work experience quality on the natural logarithm of hourly earnings for male household heads working full-time. This aspect is the percentage of the total number of years of work experience that is full-time as opposed to part-time. It is found that this effect is positive and statistically significant at the 95% confidence level for individuals working in “high atrophy” full-time jobs. It is positive but smaller, and not statistically significant at this confidence level for individuals working in “low atrophy” full-time jobs. An improved understanding emerges of why earnings are distributed the way they are.
Asymmetric information and portfolio performance measurement

Abstract This note argues that though Dave Mayers and Edward Rice were able to show that the CAPM could be used to detect superior investors in a world of asymmetric information, their demonstration does not resurrect the CAPM as a practical tool for performance measurement. To employ the Mayers-Rice model, an investment advisor would first have to determine that the CAPM holds for uninformed investors. As a means of avoiding the problem of testing the CAPM, a performance measure based only on returns is outlined. The measure is robust in that it would correctly designate superior investors in context of the CAPM, the arbitrage pricing model and many other equilibrium models of security pricing.
Microvillar loss: when your pERM won't hold

![Figure][1] Circulating lymphocytes exhibit an intriguing segregation of adhesion proteins with respect to microvillar membrane domains. Proteins such as L-selectin that mediate initial tethering to endothelial cells are enriched at the tips of microvilli, a distribution that has been shown
What is necessary for corporate moral excellence

At the beginning of this essay I sketch a solution to the question of how we can predicate moral properties, such as moral excellence, to the corporation. This solution suggests that there are at least two necessary criteria for corporate moral excellence: (1) a moral corporate culture and (2) the moral autonomy of the individual within the corporate culture. I put forward guidelines for the development of both and argue for their necessary interdependence.
Theory of n to π* transitions: more than tone nonbonding center

Abstract We extend the theory of n to π* transitions, previously developed, to include two or more nonbonding centers. When tunneling between nonbonding orbitals is taken into account the situation reduces to the familiar polymer (or specifically, dimer, for two nonbonding sites) vibronic problem with the n states playing the role of the polymer electronic states and the π electrons, the role of the polymer nuclear vibrations. A model calculation is presented for the -NN-group (attached to a non-conjugated system).
Biogenic Amine and Corticotrophin-Releasing Factor Concentrations in Hypothalamic Paraventricular Nucleus and Biogenic Amine Levels in the Median Eminence of Normal Dogs, Chronic Dexamethasone-Treated Dogs, and Dogs with Naturally-Occurring Pituitary-Dependent Hyperadrenocorticism (Canine Cushing's Disease).

Abstract We measured dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin and epinephrine concentrations in the paraventricular nucleus and median eminence, and corticotrophin-releasing factor levels in the paraventricular nucleus. Tissue was isolated by micropunch technique from hypothalami of normal dogs, dogs treated for one week with dexamethasone (1 mg/kg/day) and dogs with spontaneous pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism. Concentrations of corticotrophin-releasing factor and most of the neurotransmitters were found to be similar between our three groups of dogs. However, we found the mean dopamine concentration in the median eminence tissue to be significantly decreased in dogs with Cushing's disease and in steroid-treated dogs. Epinephrine levels were elevated in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus of steroid-treated dogs.
Immunohistochemical Expression of N-ras Oncogene is a Late Event in Head and Neck Carcinomas.

This study investigated the expression of the N-ras oncogene in routinely processed tissue sections from 133 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) by immunohistochemistryusing anti-N-ras monoclonal antibody. N-ras expression was present in 67 of 133 (49.67%) cases. There was a highly significant correlation between N-ras expression and clinical stage of disease (P=0.003). This study confirmed that overexpression of the N-ras oncogene is common in SCCHN and that it may be an important event in the late stage of disease.
Toll‑like receptor 4 monoclonal antibody attenuates lipopolysaccharide‑induced acute lung injury in mice

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has an important role in the recognition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and in the activation of the inflammatory cascade. In the present study, the effect of TLR4 monoclonal antibody (mAb) on LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) was investigated in mice. A total of 45 male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into three groups, namely, the control (group C), sepsis (group S) and pretreatment groups (group P). Mice in group P were intraperitoneally treated with TLR4 mAb 1 h prior to the intraperitoneal administration of LPS. Following treatment with LPS for increasing times periods in groups S and P, the mRNA expression level of TLR4 in the lung tissue and the expression of inflammatory factors in the serum were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. The degree of pulmonary edema, expressed as (wet weight - dry weight)/wet weight, as well as the lung injury scores, observed using a light microscope, were also analyzed. The results demonstrated that intraperitoneal administration of LPS in mice increased the mRNA expression levels of TLR4, the secretion of inflammatory factors in the serum, the degree of pulmonary edema and the lung injury score in a time-dependent manner. However, pretreatment with TLR4 mAb effectively attenuated the increased mRNA expression of TLR4 and the overproduction of inflammatory factors to correct the pulmonary edema and the elevated lung injury score induced by LPS. Therefore, TLR4 plays a critical role in LPS-induced ALI, and the TLR4 mAb decreases the secretion of inflammatory factors and attenuates the degree of pulmonary edema, thereby protecting the lungs from LPS-induced ALI.
Estrogen binding sites on membranes from human laryngeal papilloma

Estrogen binding sites were identified on plasma membranes from biopsy materials (N = 16) of normal human larynx; such binding was found to be specific. In tissue from 22 cases of laryngeal papilloma, membrane binding of 17-beta-estradiol was also specific. Although such binding occurred for papilloma membranes at a comparable affinity, it was clear that all membranes from the papillomatous tissue possessed a 148% greater estrogen binding capacity; there were at least 17 times more estrogen binding sites for each mg of receptor protein on papilloma membrane than for normal laryngeal epithelium. These findings suggest a possible receptor marker for the detection and/or prediction of recurrence of laryngeal papilloma.
Methods of data collection, perceptions of risks and losses, and motivation to give truthful answers to sensitive survey questions

Two experiments examined survey respondents' concerns about risks and losses when answering sensitive questions in a survey. In Experiment 1 subjects watched one of eight different versions of a videotaped staged interview of a woman being asked about abortion and drunk driving. Experiment 2 was an actual survey interview about women's health issues, including abortion. In Experiment 2, a large proportion of the sample had a recent abortion for which validation information from the clinic was available. Results of both experiments indicate that, when responding to questions about sensitive topics, survey respondents are concerned about risks and losses other than those covered by standard confidentiality assurances and that these other concerns affect truthful reporting. Experiment 1 showed the importance of privacy in surveys of sensitive behaviours. The experiments suggest that under some circumstances interviewer-administration of sensitive questions may produce data as good as or better than self-administration. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A study of intestinal healing.

Abstract Experiments have been performed to prevent the formation of adhesions in bowel anastomoses by wrapping the bowel with an inert silicone film. It was found that the silicone film was well tolerated in the control animals. With the inverting technic, over 50 per cent of the animals healed their anastomoses. The remainder showed evidence of some breakdown at the anastomoses. With the everting technic, there was total failure of the anastomoses to heal, leading to death in all animals by the fifth day. These findings were confirmed in larger animals, and the clinical significance of this finding is pointed out. In a limited number of experiments, an abutting anastomosis appeared to heal well in the presence of a silicone film.
Smooth nonparametric estimation of the quantile function

Abstract A smooth kernel estimator Rn(p) is proposed for nonparametric estimation of a population quantile ξp and its derivative ∂ξ p ∂p . When the sample size n is large, the weights that Rn assigns to each order statistic are equivalent to the weights of the Qp statistic of Harrell and Davis (1982) and the Kp statistic of Kaigh and Lachenbruch (1982). The statistic Rn is a member of the class of estimators studied by Yang (1985) and uses a normal kernel function with a bandwidth proportional to { p(1 − p) n } 1 2 . A cross-validation technique is proposed for estimation of the smoothing parameter of Rn. Simulations indicate that the cross-validated Rn has a smaller mean squared error than Qp weighted over all values of p.
Punctuation and syntax of the RNA polymerase II CTD code in fission yeast.

The primary structure and phosphorylation pattern of the tandem Y1S2P3T4S5P6S7 repeats of the RNA polymerase II carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) convey information about the transcription apparatus—a CTD code—to a large ensemble of CTD-binding receptor proteins. Four of the seven coding “letters” of the fission yeast CTD (Tyr1, Pro3, Ser5, Pro6) are essential in vivo, but the grammatical rules of the code are obscure. Here we show that the minimal fission yeast CTD coding unit is a decapeptide Y1S2P3T4S5P6S7Y1S2P3 and the spacing between coding units is flexible; the coding unit must contain two Tyr1 residues and the spacing between consecutive tyrosines is important; Ser5-PO4-Pro6 comprises an essential two-letter code “word” that is read by the mRNA capping apparatus; and a threshold number of Ser5-PO4-Pro6 words are needed to comprise a readable “sentence” of CTD information. Bypassing the essentiality of the Ser5 and Pro6 letters by fusion of capping enzymes to the CTD helped reveal how CTD phosphorylation circuits are wired in vivo. We found that the Ser2-PO4 mark is independent of Ser5, Pro6, Ser7, and Thr4, whereas the Ser5-PO4 mark is independent of Ser2, Ser7, and Thr4. These results provide unique insights to the reading and writing of the CTD code.
Toxicological response of codling moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) populations from California and New York to azinphosmethyl

Abstract Toxicological responses to azinphosmethyl of codling moth populations from commercial orchards in which control failures had occurred were compared to responses of reference populations that had received little selection pressure. Responses were characterized by tropical application (LC 50 's) and continous exposure tests (LT 50 's) for adults, and feeding tests (LC 50 's) for first instar larvae. LC 50 values for the populations from commercial orchards in the range 0.06–0.11 μg moth −1 for males and 0.08–0.14 μg moth −1 for females were comparable to values for reference populations and to data in the literature. LT 50 values for populations from commercial orchards ranged from 4.40 to 7.60 h for males and from 4.21 to 7.96 h for females and were comparable to reference populations, indicating that resistance to azinphosmethyl was not a probable cause for control failures. Possible explanations for control failures are discussed. An attempt to select for azinphosmethyl resistance over 10 generations in a laboratory population with previous azinphosmethyl exposure resulted in a 3.7- and 3.9-fold increase in LC 50 's for males and females, respectively. These data suggest that the codling moth can develop a tolerance to azinphosmethyl.
Various measures of increased adiposity are associated with periodontal disease

Abstract Original Article Wood N, Johnson RB, Streckfus CF. Comparison of body composition and periodontal disease using nutritional assessment techniques: Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). J Clin Periodontol 2003;30(4):321–7. Level of Evidence 3b Purpose To determine whether body composition (obesity) is associated with periodontal disease Source of Funding Information not available (Parent study, National Health and Nutrition Examination Study III, is federally funded.) Type of Study/Design Cross-sectional
Inquiring about Practice: Using Web-Based Materials to Develop Teacher Inquiry.

This paper explores a new pedagogical approach to teaching teachers to assume a learning or inquiry stance in their practice. It is based on an assumption that professional learning is a core capability of good teaching that is responsive to the changing needs of children, schools, and communities. One source of teacher learning is practice—one's own practice and the practice of others. Whereas there is much written about teachers learning from their own practice, there is scant attention in the field currently about learning from the practice of others. What do we mean by learning from the practice of others? Beyond visiting their classrooms, how might teachers access the practice of others so that they can learn from it? How does learning work proceed? This paper grapples with these questions as a frame for discussing one teacher education attempt at preparing teachers to learn from the practice of others. It begins by making a case for learning as a centerpiece of good teaching, and then proceeds to de...
Leadership and its Influence in Organizations – A Review of Intellections

The objective of writing this paper is to understand theories and concept that how should a leadership be working, and influence the personnel to reach out a common cause. Northhouse (2004) delivered four very common themes i.e. leadership is a process, it involves influence, it occurs in group context and involves goal attainment. Similarly wisdom from many eminent scholars has been explored to comprehend that how a leader should perform in the organization to achieve the goals efficiently and effectively. One very important and innovative responsibility has been extended towards the leaders in organizations i.e. he has to convert himself from Boss to COGAL which stands for “Creators of Growth and Learning” through adopting a mechanism of learning of skills, competencies and good behaviors, leaders can be developed in the organizations who subsequently can really make the difference. This responsibility towards getting high degree of performance lies not only with the overall administration but as well on each of the manager in the unit. Key Words: Influence, Wisdom, Competencies, COGAL, Performance and Mechanism.
Foreign Military Interventions and Suicide Attacks

This study examines the effect of foreign military interventions on the incidence of suicide attacks. It presents three theoretical explanations. Foreign military interventions may boost insurgent use of suicide attacks by (a) fomenting a nationalist backlash that sanctions the use of more extreme and unconventional tactics like suicide attacks, (b) providing more and better targets against which suicide attacks can be launched, or (c) prompting insurgents to use suicide tactics in order to overcome their power asymmetries and to confront better defended targets that are enhanced by interventions. We test these competing explanations using a battery of statistical tests on cross-national, time-series data for 138 countries during the period from 1981 to 2005. We find that only foreign interventions with specific features—pro-government interventions involving larger numbers of ground troops—boost suicide attacks in countries experiencing interventions. This finding suggests that by tipping the balance of ...
Photo-induced absorption of donor-acceptor conjugated copolymers for optical limiting

Dithienopyrrole-based polymers show strong nonlinear absorption and potential as optical limiters in the telecommunications region. A 17X suppression (figure-of-merit ∼ 35) is achieved in a waveguided device, arising from the strong and broad excited-state absorption.
Gated acquisition of MR images of the thorax: advantages for the study of the hila and mediastinum.

Abstract Gated and nongated magnetic resonance (MR) scans of the chest were compared in five normal volunteers and 20 patients with chest disease to determine possible advantages of gated MR for delineation of noncardiac mediastinal anatomy. In order to compare gated and nongated images of the chest using similar imaging parameters, five spin-echo sequences were obtained in each of five normal volunteers: (a) TR: 1000 msec, TE: 30 msec; (b) gated to every heart beat (TR approximately 1000 msec, TE: 30 msec); (c) TR: 2000 msec, TE: 30 msec; (d) gated to every other heart beat (TR approximately 2000 msec), TE: 30 msec; (e) TR: 500 msec, TE: 30 msec. In the 20 patients, the gated images were gated to every heart beat and the nongated images were obtained using a TR of 2000 msec, both with a TE of 30 msec. The noise in the periphery and in the center of the gated and nongated images at the level of the carina was compared in the five normal volunteers, using the signal intensity of the posterior chest wall as a control. There was 92% ± 44% greater noise in the central region and 63% ± 60% greater noise in the peripheral region on the nongated studies (TR: 1000 msec), than on the studies gated to every heart beat. In three of the five volunteers, the measured noise was greater on the nongated long TR (2000 msec) images than on the images gated to every other heart beat. However, the mediastinal structures below the level of the aortic arch were much better defined on the gated images in all five subjects. In 17 of the 20 patients, the gated images provided superior definition of hilar and/or mediastinal structures. The gated images were equal to the nongated ones in two patients and inferior in one patient, in whom the gating was unsuccessful. The anatomic regions where gating proved most beneficial were the hila, aortopulmonary window, ascending aorta and aortic arch. Gating was less helpful in the superior mediastinum and descending aorta. Because of the marked improvement in image quality, we recommend, whenever possible, the use of ECG gated sequences for the evaluation of hilar and mediastinal pathology at and below the level of the aortic arch.
Phylogenetic evidence for horizontal transfer of mutS alleles among naturally occurring Escherichia coli strains.

mutS mutators accelerate the bacterial mutation rate 100- to 1,000-fold and relax the barriers that normally restrict homeologous recombination. These mutators thus afford the opportunity for horizontal exchange of DNA between disparate strains. While much is known regarding the mutS phenotype, the evolutionary structure of the mutS+ gene in Escherichia coli remains unclear. The physical proximity of mutS to an adjacent polymorphic region of the chromosome suggests that this gene itself may be subject to horizontal transfer and recombination events. To test this notion, a phylogenetic approach was employed that compared gene phylogeny to strain phylogeny, making it possible to identify E. coli strains in which mutS alleles have recombined. Comparison of mutS phylogeny against predicted E. coli “whole-chromosome” phylogenies (derived from multilocus enzyme electrophoresis and mdh sequences) revealed striking levels of phylogenetic discordance among mutS alleles and their respective strains. We interpret these incongruences as signatures of horizontal exchange among mutS alleles. Examination of additional sites surrounding mutS also revealed incongruous distributions compared to E. coli strain phylogeny. This suggests that other regional sequences are equally subject to horizontal transfer, supporting the hypothesis that the 61.5-min mutS-rpoS region is a recombinational hot spot within the E. coli chromosome. Furthermore, these data are consistent with a mechanism for stabilizing adaptive changes promoted by mutS mutators through rescue of defective mutS alleles with wild-type sequences.
Characterization of Oil Precipitate and Oil Extracted from Condensed Corn Distillers Solubles

Oil extracted from condensed corn distillers solubles (CCDS) can form a semi-solid and waxy precipitate at the bottom of containers during storage. CCDS is a good source to recover oil, and such oil can be converted to biodiesel. Precipitate formation in the extracted oil is mainly a physical stability problem, but it may become a performance problem for biodiesel. The objective of the present work was to determine the composition of the CCDS oil precipitate and also determine if valuable phytosterols were present in high concentration. The free fatty acid (FFA) content was very high, 35.7%, and fatty acid composition of the FFA fraction was predominantly palmitic acid, 70.3%. The solid appearance was mainly due to a high percentage of high-melting point free saturated fatty acid. The total unsaponifiable matter was 2.0%, and total phytosterol content was 8.6 mg/g of CCDS oil precipitate. Therefore, CCDS oil precipitate is a not an enriched source of phytosterols compared to total sterols present in crude corn oil (15.6 mg/g oil). The wax content was high, 2.5 mg/g of CCDS oil precipitate compared to 0.5 mg/g of crude corn oil. CCDS oil that is uncentrifugable but polar solvent extractable (trapped oil fraction) was also characterized and found to contain more polar lipids than those in the free oil fraction (centrifugable oil).
Improving and designing sensors for the Simulation Environment for Autonomous Robots (SEAR)

Several new developments have been integrated into the Simulation Environment for Autonomous Robots (SEAR), which is a newly developed platform agnostic three-dimensional robotics simulator. The range sensors, which have previously been validated against actual hardware [1] were improved to enable full 3D capabilities and a new class of light detection and ranging (LIDAR) class has been added. The compass sensor was improved to include magnetic declination calculations when given the robot's latitude and longitude. External communications is now handled via TCP and UDP messages shared with an external program users can utilize to set up and control robotics simulations.
SYNERGISTIC ANTITUMOUR ACTIVITY OF VITAMINS C AND K3AGAINST HUMAN PROSTATE CARCINOMA CELL LINES

Vitamins C, K3(VC, VK3) and a VC/VK3combination with a VC:VK3ratio of 100:1 were assayed for their antitumour activity against two human prostatic carcinoma cell lines. Co-administration of the vitamins enhanced the antitumour activity 5- to 20-fold even with a 1 h exposure time. While exogenous catalase destroyed the antitumour activity, hydrogen peroxide-induced lipid peroxidation was negligible. Analysis of cellular ATP and thiol levels as well as DNA and protein synthesis revealed: a transient increase in ATP production, a decrease in DNA synthesis, an increase in protein synthesis and a decrease in thiol levels. These results suggested that the increased cytotoxicity of the vitamin combination was due to redox cycling and increased oxidative stress.
An empirical investigation of a theoretically based measure of Perceived Wellness

The Perceived Wellness Survey (PWS; T. Adams, 1995; T. Adams, J. Bezner, & M. Steinhardt, 1997) is a recently developed instrument intended to operationalize the comprehensive Perceived Wellness Model (T. Adams, J. Bezner, & M. Steinhardt, 1997), an innovative model that attempts to include the balance of multiple life activities in its evaluation of well-being. Two university samples (N = 317) were used to (a) examine the psychometric properties of the PWS, (b) determine how well the PWS represents the Perceived Wellness Model, and (c) ascertain how well the PWS relates to psychological functioning. Results suggest that the PWS may have potential as a psychometrically sound instrument that does relate in hypothesized ways to standardized measures of mental health. Specifically, a revised 33-item PWS accounted for 29.3% of the variance in Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (A. T. Beck, R. A. Steer, & G. K. Brown, 1996) scores, 11.4% of the variance in Beck Anxiety Inventory (A. T. Beck & R. A. Steer, 1993) scores, and 18.2% of the variance in scores on the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-21 (D. E. Green, F. H. Walkey, I. A. McCormick, & A. J. W. Taylor, 1988) when controlling for impression management. Despite this support for the overall PWS, the authors' examination found no psychometric evidence for the existence of separate subscale dimensions, as suggested by the Perceived Wellness Model, the theory upon which the PWS was designed. Implications for these findings are presented.
Analysis and Design of Aerocapture Tether with Accounting for Stochastic Errors

As an alternative to conventional aerocapture spacecraft, a system comprising two vehicles (a probe and an orbiter) connected by a long thin tether hasbeen proposed. In this tethered system, theprobeprovides the necessary atmospheric dragwhile the orbiter remains high above the sensible atmosphere.The results of a sensitivity analysis of the aerocapture tether are presented. Errors in knowledge of the atmosphere and in control of the initial conditionsare considered. A result of the analysisis the discovery that the tethered systempossesses a self-correcting mechanism that partially compensates for these errors. This intrinsic characteristic can be enhanced with a simple guidance algorithm that implements a change in the tether length to minimize the effect of off-nominalconditions. Design rules are developed to accommodate stochastic errors without violating the constraints, i.e., breaking or compressing the tether, subjecting the orbiter to atmospheric effects, crashing, or failing to capture. The  nal design consists of a 68-km tether with a mass of 381 kg and a probe and orbiter of 1000 kg each. It is capable of achieving a 99% success rate for aerocapture at Mars.
The role of defects in laser induced positive ion emission from ionic crystals

Abstract The energy distributions of positive ions produced by exposing single-crystal MgO to pulsed 248 nm excimer laser light at fluences of 200–1100 mJ/cm 2 were determined by combined quadrupole mass spectrometry and time-of-flight techniques. The dominant ionic species is Mg + , although small amounts of Mg 2+ , MgO + , and Mg 2 O + are also observed. In particular, the Mg + and Mg 2+ energies distributions each show two peaks, with the energies of the Mg 2+ peaks at significantly higher energies. Ion trajectory simulations (accounting for Coulomb forces only and assuming no surface relaxation) suggest that Mg 2+ and Mg + adsorbed at sites directly atop surface F-centers (oxygen vacancies with two trapped electrons) would be ejected upon photo-ionization of the F-center. The experimentally observed kinetic energies and angular distributions agree well with the energies and angles predicted by these simulations.
TOWARD AN AFFECTIVE OUTCOME OF HIGHER EDUCATION

A test was developed for measuring the ability of college students to analyze emotional and nonemotional subject matter. The rationale for the test was that students should become able to analyze material more objectively as they pass through the 4 years of college. Results of convergent and discriminant validation indicated that subject responses to “emotional” items appeared to change at an increasing rate with years in college, while responses to nonemotional items did not. Lack of correlation of the test with cognitive materials, adequate internal reliability, and performance consistent with expectations gave support to the construct, labeled “analytical objectivity.” Initial structuring of a nomological net for support of the validity of the construct was achieved.
RETROSPECTIVE DISCOURSE DISCUSSIONS: HOW TEACHER TALK ENABLES ONE NOVICE LITERACY TEACHER TO MAKE SENSE OF COMPLEX TEACHING PROBLEMS

In this article, the authors describe a retrospective discourse discussions approach that was developed in a graduate literacy education course. This method represents a reconceptualization of supervising and coaching graduate students where meanings are constructed, problems are reframed, and beginning professionals can develop more nuanced understandings of their teaching and learning (Bogdan & Biklen, 1998; Cobb & Bauersfeld, 1995). An extended example of how one graduate student and her professor grapple with instructional practices within the capstone practicum course is explored. It is the authors' assertion that clearly stating and coming to understand one's theories about teaching and learning can help educators converse about, scrutinize, and adapt their teaching in ways that hold powerful benefits for instruction and learning outcomes.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cross-linked Sulfonated Polystyrene Nanoparticles

Cross-linked polystyrene particles have applications in many fields such as ion exchange columns, fuel cell membranes, and catalysis, to name a few. Synthesis of these particles in smaller sizes offers various advantages due to the increased specific surface area. Polystyrene nanoparticles having volume-equivalent diameters in the range of 40-60 nm were synthesized using emulsion polymerization. Emulsifier-free synthesis was also employed, yielding particles in the size range of 80-90 nm. Sodium styrene sulfonate (NaSS) was used an emulsifying comonomer, and divinyl benzene (DVB) was used as a cross-linking agent. The average particle diameter increased with increasing DVB concentration in the feed. By increasing the NaSS content in the feed from 4 to 28 wt %, the ion exchange capacity of the cross-linked polystyrene particles increased from 0.05 to 2.2 meq/g. The presence of SO3Na groups in the cross-linked polystyrene particles was also confirmed by using FT-IR, and the intensity of the peaks at 1040 and 1182 cm -1 increased with increasing NaSS concentration in the feed.
SAFETY SIGNALS AND THE ACQUISITION AND EXTINCTION OF LEVER‐PRESS DISCRIMINATED AVOIDANCE IN RATS

Rats learned a discriminated avoidance response more rapidly when a safety signal occurred following an escape or avoidance response. Two extinction procodures were used: complete omission of shock or delivery of an unavoidable shock at the end of the warning period. Under the latter procedure, avoidance-extinction responding was initially higher but subsequently declined to the same level as under the omission procedure. Under each extinction procedure animals were divided into two subgroups: safety signal and no-safety signal. The safety signal did not significantly effect avoidance responses in extinction per se, but it did result in fewer extra responses during the inter-trial and safety periods following an avoidance—extinction response. With no-safety signal there was an increase over extinction sessions in the numbers of such extra responses, especially in the shock delivery subgroup.
Study on the Burning Characteristics of AP/Al/HTPB Composite Solid Propellant Containing Nano-Sized Ferric Oxide Powder

This study mainly explores the burning characteristics of AP/Al/HTPB composite solid propellant containing nano-sized ferric oxide (Fe2O3) powder. First, the appropriate dispersed technique is applied to prepare the propellant samples containing the ferric oxide (micro-sized and/or nano-sized) powder, and then the scanning electron microscope (SEM) is used to observe the dispersed effect of ferric oxide powder in the propellant samples. Afterward, the reaction characteristics of the propellant samples are measured using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and the difference between their properties is analyzed. Finally, the propellant samples are processed to be used for various experiments, and the window bomb (WB), burning rate meter (BRM), and quenched particle collection bomb (QPCB) are used to study the burning characteristics. The burning phenomena are also analyzed by means of the combustion observation technique. Furthermore, the pull-testing machine is conducted to evaluate the mechanical pr...