cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Supervision of Cross-Cultural Couples Therapy: Giving Voice to the Code of Silence in the Supervision and Therapy Room

This author discusses the importance of actively giving voice in clinical supervision and the therapy room to the code of silence around issues of ethnicity, gender, spirituality, and socioeconomic struggles that plague many cross-cultural couples. The author explores obstacles that collude with dominant oppressive discourses in supervision and therapy and provides suggestions for giving voice to issues of ethnicity, gender, spirituality, and socioeconomic status. The author offers strategies for entering a dialogue of cross-cultural exploration using narrative theory via a supervision case.
Remote Sensing of Vegetation Stress and Soil Contamination Using CO2 Laser Reflectance Ratios

A tunable CO2 laser reflectance sensor operating in the 9-11 μm wavelength region of the electromagnetic spectrum was used to measure the mid-infrared active reflectance characteristics of stressed vegetation and contaminated soil. Measurements were performed at various wavelengths, incidence angles, and polarization combinations. The vegetation study was conducted by inducing freezing, chilling, drought, flooding, and heat stress on four different plant species showing varying leaf cover characteristics. The soil study was conducted by adding chemical contaminants, viz., antifreeze, used motor oil (containing gasoline), and unused motor oil to bare soil. Reflectance ratios, i.e., ratios of reflectance at different wavelengths, were investigated as to their relationships with different stresses and contaminations. It was determined that judiciously selected reflectance ratios could be used to identify stressed plants (although the type of stress could not always be identified), as well as the presence and the type of contamination in bare soil. This indicates the potential for CO2 laser sensors to monitor vegetation stress and soil contamination from standoff platforms.
Motion about the Stable Libration Points in the Linearized, Restricted Three-Body Problem

The finite equations of motion are well known. Since the motion out of the planes of the trajectories of the two finite bodies is harmonic, we consider only the projection of the motion of the infinitesimal body in that plane.
Sediment resuspension in a shallow lake

[1] Different mathematical formulations for the computation of the entrainment rate of sediment into suspension in lakes can produce widely disparate results under a given set of conditions, leading to problematic interpretation. In this paper, the results of a 4-month field campaign on sediment resuspension in a large, shallow, hypereutrophic lake in southern California are presented. The field measurement program included the observation of currents and waves using a Nortek acoustic wave and current (AWAC) profiler, the observation of water temperatures using a thermistor chain, the use of optical backscatter sensors for the measurement of turbidity, a surrogate for suspended sediment concentration, and the use of meteorological data. The paper reports one of the first field experiments in lakes using the AWAC, whose signal strength has not been investigated in detail to date, and the correlation of a set of variables coming from different sources during a relatively long period of time. The contributions of different forcing mechanisms (waves, currents, and surface seiches) to the sediment resuspension in the lake are quantified, and the signal strength of the AWAC is used to address the vertical distribution of sediment in the water column. A novel relationship between the AWAC's backscatter intensity and turbidity is presented. Turbidity was found to be proportional to wK, where w is the wind speed measured at 2 m and K ranged from 4.5 to 6.5, depending on the water depth. Finally, the results of modeling the sediment entrainment into suspension in the Salton Sea are shown to be well represented by an extension of the Garcia and Parker formula.
Shake flask biodegradation of 14 commercial phthalate esters.

An acclimated shake flask CO2 evolution test was used to study the biodegradability of 14 commercial phthalate esters that are commonly used as plasticizers. Both CO2 evolution (ultimate biodegradation) and loss of parent phthalate esters (primary biodegradation) were measured. With only a few exceptions, primary biodegradation was 90% or higher, and ultimate biodegradation was in excess of 55% of theoretical results in 28 days. The results showed that all of the commercial phthalate esters were susceptible to biodegradation by mixed populations of microorganisms from natural sources. The results also provide considerable insight into the utility and reproducibility of a standard biodegradation test that is being recommended for widespread screening of chemicals.
Adsorption of CO on a pseudomorphic palladium monolayer on Mo(110)

Adsorption of CO on a Pd monolayer (ML) supported on Mo(110) has been studied using low energy electron diffraction (LEED), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS). Three ordered CO substructures denoted as (112−1 (21−11, and (1−122) are observed with LEED. The binding energy of C0 on the 1.0 ML PdMo(110) surface is reduced by 12 kcal/mol relative to the Pd(111) surface, consistent with previous results for supported palladium monolayers on other substrates. Two vibrational states of C0 are observed near 1950 and 2050 cm−1, with the feature at the lower wavenumber having the smaller binding energy.
Label-free measurement of microbicidal gel thickness using low-coherence interferometry

Spectral-domain low-coherence interferometry (LCI) was used to measure the thickness of microbicidal gels applied to a cylindrical calibration test socket. Microbicides are topical formulations containing active ingredients targeted to inhibit specific pathogens that are currently under development for application to the epithelial lining of the lower female reproductive tract to combat sexually transmitted infections such as HIV. Understanding the deployment and drug delivery of these formulations is vital to maximizing their effectiveness. Previously, in vivo measurements of microbicidal formulation thickness were assessed using fluorescence measurements of fluorescein-labeled gels via an optical endoscope-based device. Here we present an LCI-based device that measures the thickness of a formulation without the use of any exogenous agents by analyzing the interference pattern generated between the reflections from the front and back surface of the sample. Results are presented that validate the effectiveness and performance of the LCI measurement in a clinically relevant system as compared to an existing fluorescence-based method. The impact of the new LCI-based design on in vivo measurements is discussed.
Disordered heteropolymers with cross-links – phase diagram and conformational transitions

Abstract The phase structure of globular random heteropolymers with quenched cross-links is studied by replica field theory. Our analysis predicts the occurrence of complex freezing patterns with few conformations sampled. The low cross-linking temperature phase is attributed to microphase separation of the pre-gel state with cross-links forming at the microphase interfaces. A first-order transition occurs at higher cross-linking temperatures by an increase of the microdomain size by statistical matching of microphases bounded by cross-links. At higher cross-linking temperatures, a second-order transition is predicted to a sequence-stabilized globular state.
Static and dynamic density functional investigation of hydrated beryllium dications

Using density functional theory with Becke's gradient correction for the exchange part and Vanderbilt's ultrasoft pseudopotentials, we investigated [Be(H2O)n]2+ clusters for n = 1 and 3. A new scheme implemented with the Car-Parrinello method is used, upon which no periodic boundary conditions are imposed so that isolated and possibly charged molecules can also be treated dynamically in a plane-wave basis. Harmonic vibrational frequencies are obtained via a fit of the molecular dynamics trajectory in terms of harmonic oscillators, for which we use a fragmentation scheme to analyze complex spectra. Based on this combination of techniques, we find good agreement with data from SCF calculations and correlated methods. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Winning Through Innovation

The article reviews the book “Winning through Innovation,” by Michael L. Tushman and Charles A. O'Reilly III.
Generalized image contrast enhancement technique based on Heinemann contrast discrimination model

This paper presents a generalized image contrast enhancement technique which equalizes perceived brightness based on the Heinemann contrast discrimination model. This is a modified algorithm which presents an improvement over the previous study by Mokrane in its mathematically proven existence of a unique solution and in its easily tunable parameterization. The model uses a log-log representation of contrast luminosity between targets and the surround in a fixed luminosity background setting. The algorithm consists of two nonlinear gray-scale mapping functions which have seven parameters, two of which are adjustable Heinemann constants. Another parameter is the background gray level. The remaining four parameters are nonlinear functions of gray scale distribution of the image, and can be uniquely determined once the previous three are given. Tests have been carried out to examine the effectiveness of the algorithm for increasing the overall contrast of images. It can be demonstrated that the generalized algorithm provides better contrast enhancement than histogram equalization. In fact, the histogram equalization technique is a special case of the proposed mapping.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
An inclined plane test for the breakaway coefficient of rolling friction of rolling element bearings

Abstract An ISO/ASTM standard test has been used for over 20 years for detecting the presence of lubricating films on plastics (usually in web form). The test uses a wire paperclip (on end) as the rider on an inclined plane. A need for a test to measure breakaway friction of rolling element bearings for instrument pivots prompted a study to determine if the “paperclip” test could be adapted to screen bearings for low rolling friction. This paper describes the test modification and the results obtained in intralaboratory tests aimed at making the test an ASTM standard. The test was modified by replacing the paperclip rider with a rolling element bearing with the inner race fixed to an axle on a balanced rider. The inclined plane is raised to imitate rolling of the outer race on the inclined plane. The tangent of this angle is used as the test metric. Seven random ball bearings, some new, some used, were tested by six laboratories in the USA to determine if the test is repeatable enough to be an ASTM standard. The coefficient of variation was quite good within lab, and reasonable between labs. The test seems to be a fast, simple friction test for rolling element and other bearings that should be standardized.
Incidence of dental radiographic procedures during a 48-month population-based study of dentate adults

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this population-based study was to quantify the incidence of radiographic procedures and the intervals between radiographic exposures. Study design The Florida Dental Care Study was a prospective cohort study of a representative sample of dentate adults. In-person interviews and dental examinations were conducted at baseline, with subsequent interviews every 6 months during 48 months of follow-up. Dental record information was abstracted afterward. Results Thirteen percent of all dental procedures, and 42% of all diagnostic procedures, were radiographic. Annual person-level incidence of receipt of any radiograph was 48%. Incidence of specific types of radiographic procedures ranged from 5% to 30%. Among the 45% of the sample population who had had more than 1 bitewing procedure, 70% of the intervals between bitewing exposures were 1 year or longer. Receiving more than 1 full-mouth series or panoramic radiographic in any 24-month period was very rare. Conclusions Annual incidence of radiographic procedures was substantially higher than the incidence reported in previous studies based on responses by dentists to hypothetical situations, but was stable during the 4 years of follow-up. On the basis only of intervals between exposures, and not of clinical status on the day of service, there was no substantial evidence of inappropriately frequent radiographic examinations.
Mechanistic Differences between Electrochemical and Gas-Phase Thermal Oxidation of Platinum-Group Transition Metals As Discerned by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

The oxidation of five Pt-group metalsplatinum, palladium, iridium, rhodium, and rutheniumis examined by means of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in aqueous electrochemical and gaseous dioxygen environments as a function of electrode potential and temperature, respectively, with the objective of intercomparing systematically the conditions required for surface oxide formation and discerning the reaction mechanisms involved. The SERS strategy, utilizing ultrathin Pt-group metal films electrodeposited on a gold substrate, enables monolayer-level metal oxide vibrational spectra to readily be obtained in both the electrochemical and gaseous environments. The SER spectra obtained during positive- and then negative-going potential excursions in aqueous 0.1 M HClO4 display metal−oxygen vibrational bands signaling anodic oxide formation and subsequent removal at potentials consistent with corresponding voltammetric data. The nature of the amorphous oxides (or hydroxides) formed is deduced by comparison ...
Physical assaults against children

Purpose – A fundamental purpose of Massachusetts' General Law 209A is to prevent the use of physically assaultive behavior between family members and intimate partners to change or alter their behavior. This Massachusetts Law is similar to laws in all 50 states. Despite the fact that the vast majority of domestic violence laws contain no exceptions for age, the acceptance of physical assaults against children continues. This paper aims to investigate physical assaults on children.Design/methodology/approach – The paper compares and contrasts corporal punishment and domestic violence laws and explores what role cognitive dissonance plays in the acceptance of physical assaults against children by parents or guardians. It questions how or why public policy makers, domestic violence interveners and the majority of American adults continue to accept that the goal of preventing family physical assaults is possible in a family or a society that condones rather than condemns the use of physical assaults against c...
Driving forces for mass transport in solids

The purpose of this paper is to establish relationships among thermodynamic quantities and various mass transport phenomena in solids. Both amorphous and crystalline solids are considered.
Poster abstract: LEAP—efficient security mechanisms for large-scale distributed sensor networks

In this paper, we describe LEAP (Localized Encryption and Authentication Protocol), a key management protocol for sensor networks that is designed to support in-network processing techniques such as passive participation. LEAP includes support for multiple symmetric keying mechanisms including individual keys, pairwise shared keys, cluster keys, and a group key. This design is based on the observation that different types of messages exchanged between sensor nodes have different security requirements, and a single keying mechanism is not suitable for meeting these different security requirements.
Structure factors and bonding in ΒNiAl

A combination of powder x-ray and critical voltage electron diffraction was used to determine the lattice parameter and low-angle structure factors of stoichiometric (ΒNiAI. A weighted least squares fit method was used to obtain an accurate lattice parameter from the x-ray line position data, and the integrated intensities were carefully analyzed to determine the Debye-Waller factors; the latter were found to be in good agreement with those obtained from the electron diffraction experiments. Highly accurate (errors ≅ 0.1%) low-angle structure factors were also obtained from the electron diffraction measurements, which were found to agree closely with first principles calculations in the local density approximation. This information reveals that bonding in NiAl is mostly ionic with some covalent contribution.
Short-latency changes in voice F0 and neck surface EMG induced by mechanical perturbations of the larynx during sustained vowel phonation.

Nineteen healthy young adult males with normal voice and speech attempted to sustain the vowel /u/ at a constant pitch (target: 180 Hz) and a constant and comfortable loudness level while receiving...
Myosin 5a Is an Insulin-Stimulated Akt2 (Protein Kinase Bβ) Substrate Modulating GLUT4 Vesicle Translocation

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation of Akt signaling is critical to insulin-stimulated glucose transport and GLUT4 translocation. However, the downstream signaling events following Akt activation which mediate glucose transport stimulation remain relatively unknown. Here we identify an Akt consensus phosphorylation motif in the actin-based motor protein myosin 5a and show that insulin stimulation leads to phosphorylation of myosin 5a at serine 1650. This Akt-mediated phosphorylation event enhances the ability of myosin 5a to interact with the actin cytoskeleton. Small interfering RNA-induced inhibition of myosin 5a and expression of dominant-negative myosin 5a attenuate insulin-stimulated glucose transport and GLUT4 translocation. Furthermore, knockdown of Akt2 or expression of dominant-negative Akt (DN-Akt) abolished insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of myosin 5a, inhibited myosin 5a binding to actin, and blocked insulin-stimulated glucose transport. Taken together, these data indicate that myosin 5a is a newly identified direct substrate of Akt2 and, upon insulin stimulation, phosphorylated myosin 5a facilitates anterograde movement of GLUT4 vesicles along actin to the cell surface.
PC-based application programs in large health care systems

Public health care agencies lack the infrastructure to meet the increasing operational demands on them, but there is little comparative data on alternative operational structures and systems from which to formulate remedies. Improved information management systems could help address both the workload and the gathering of critically needed data. PC-based database and application programs (PC-APs) that communicate with the mainframe are proposed as a methodology for filling the information-processing gap between mainframe computing and manual information systems. We also propose a model for systematic study of information management systems in clinical settings which can be used to evaluate other aspects of clinical program operations as well. A pilot study demonstrating these methodologies suggests that this is a fruitful approach to assessing ambulatory care operations and that PC-APs can improve administrative and clinical functions and enhance FTE productivity at lower overall cost.
Evaluation of Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene–covered Stents for the Treatment of Venous Outflow Stenosis in Hemodialysis Access Grafts

Abstract Purpose To investigate the use of an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene–coated nitinol stent-graft in patients with failing hemodialysis access circuits and compare grafts with and without a heparin-coated surface. Materials and Methods A single-institution retrospective review of 16 patients (average age, 55 years; seven men) treated for hemodialysis access circuit stenoses was performed. Patients had a prosthetic arteriovenous (AV) graft ( n = 10) or autogenous AV fistula ( n = 6), all with clinically relevant access stenoses that were refractory to angioplasty alone; 10 patients also had access circuit thrombosis at the time of treatment. Stents were placed in the basilic ( n = 4), brachial ( n = 7), cephalic ( n = 4), and femoral ( n = 1) veins. Study endpoints included primary treatment area patency, primary circuit patency, primary assisted circuit patency, and secondary circuit patency, followed to a maximum of 6 months. Results Primary treatment area patency rates at 30 days and 180 days were 75% and 31%, respectively. Secondary patency rates at the same time points were 88% and 68%, respectively. Mean primary treatment area patency was 93 days. Thrombosis was a major cause of failure, occurring in seven of 11 cases of primary treatment area patency loss. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that the heparin-coated configuration ( n = 7) showed a 6-month primary patency rate of 57%, compared with 11% for the stent-grafts without heparin bonding ( n = 9; P = .06). Conclusions Overall, the majority of deployed stent-grafts lost primary patency within 6 months, with thrombosis a major cause of failure. However, the addition of a heparin-coated surface appeared to improve results in these otherwise treatment-refractory access circuits.
Treatment of high-renin hypertension with propranolol in children after renal transplantation**

Ten children with hypertension poorly controlled with other drugs and high peripheral plasma renin activity after renal transplantation were treated with propranolol. The mean systolic pressure decreased from 139 to 127 mm Hg (p
A COMPARISON OF SEVERAL k SAMPLE TESTS FOR ORDERED ALTERNATIVES IN COMPLETELY RANDOMIZED DESIGNS

The importance of appropriate test selection for a given research endeavor cannot be over-emphasized. Using samples drawn from eleven populations (differing in shape, peakedness, and density in the tails), this study investigates the small sample empirical powers of ninek-sample tests against ordered location alternatives under completely randomized designs. The results then are intended to aid the researcher in the selection of a particular procedure appropriate for a given endeavor. To highlight this an industrial psychology application involving work productivity is presented.
Context in Methods Course Learning: Lessons for partnership work

Teacher education programs are being encouraged to collaborate with K‐12 partners to develop and implement contextually rich field experiences that integrate methods course instruction with public school practices. As a result, we outline four models of integrating methods instruction and field experiences and raise the question “How does the classroom and school context of the field experience influence what prospective teachers learned in the methods courses?” This study examines the way two different cohorts of prospective elementary teachers who learned to teach in two different contexts define their own social studies pedagogical content knowledge. The students' espoused philosophies of education offer insight into how different models of integrated field experiences may impact on their beliefs about social studies teaching. Through this study we raise questions that should be considered in constructing methods courses linked to field experiences and suggest Bronfenbrenner's model as a tool for looki...
Air-Dry Tree Leaves for Use in a Restricted Dietary Regime

Abstract Extensive nutritive analyses were completed on air dry tree leaves (approximately 85% from oak trees) collected on the ground in October. The total essential amino acid composition of the leaves on an air dry basis (76.08% dry matter) was calculated to be about 72% of the total essential amino acid composition of corn. The amino acid nitrogen content of the leaves was about 93% of the amino acid nitrogen content of corn. The crude protein content of the leaves on a dry matter basis was 6.02%. Aluminum, iron and manganese were present at highest levels of the trace elements determined. The leaves contained 25.58% cellulose, 26.48% lignin and 2.42% hemicellulose.
The VOC and the expansion of the world-system 1602–1799

Abstract This article discusses the role of the Dutch East India Company (the VOC) in the evolving structures of the early world-system, from 1602 to 1799. Its aims are threefold. First, it intends to clarify the importance of the role of agency—as opposed to structure—in the modern world-system. Second, it illustrates the intricate interrelationship between economic and political logics in the evolving world-system by focusing on the company's strategies in Europe and Asia. And, third, it emphasizes the importance of historical and geographical contexts in the world-system. The VOC is sometimes considered to have been the first transnational company in the world. In terms of size and longevity, few other agencies played a comparable role in the world-system since its emergence some 500 years ago. The company played an innovative role in corporate organization, helped forge important links between European and Asian regional economies and intensified economic integration in Asia. In the course of the 18th century, the company was surpassed by British competition. The article discusses possible explanations for the company's rise and decline by concentrating on its political and economic strategies in relation to the changing environments in the world-system.
A detailed physical map of HeLa cell mitochondrial DNA and its alignment with the positions of known genetic markers

Abstract Twenty-one fragments have been identified among the products of digestion of HeLa cell mtDNA with the restriction enzyme Hpa II. The sum of the molecular sizes of these fragments, estimated from their mobility relative to that of known markers, accounts, within experimental error, for the total length of HeLa cell mtDNA. The 21 fragments have been ordered in a physical map by two approaches: (1) sequential digestion with Hpa II of the fragments produced by Eco RI, Hin d III, and Hpa I enzymes, and (2) fragment-primed DNA synthesis. The Hpa II map has been aligned with the maps constructed with the other three enzymes and with the unique cutting site produced by Bam I. The combined map thus obtained has resolved HeLa cell mtDNA into 27 recognizable segments in the molecular size range between 75 and 1950 base pairs. This physical map has been aligned with the known positions of the rRNA and 4 S RNA genes on the two mtDNA strands by RNA-DNA hybridization experiments utilizing purified 32 P-labeled 12 and 16 S rRNA.
Ascorbic acid concentration in the lateral hypothalamus is related to plasma osmolality

Microdialysis was used to measure extracellular ascorbic and uric acid concentrations in the lateral hypothalamus of water-restricted rats as they drank distilled water or 1.5% NaCl. Other water-restricted rats, not implanted with microdialysis probes, were decapitated 2 h after beginning to drink these fluids. Rats were inverted and their blood was collected for measurements of plasma osmolality and percent hematocrit. Results showed that drinking distilled water produced a significant increase in the ascorbic acid concentration but not in the uric acid concentration. Drinking 1.5% NaCl produced a significant decrease in the uric acid concentration but not in the ascorbic acid concentration. Drinking distilled water decreased mean osmolality from 306.0 to 291.5 mOsm/kg, whereas drinking 1.5% NaCl maintained mean osmolality at water-restricted levels. These results indicate that the extracellular fluid concentration of ascorbic acid in the lateral hypothalamus rises in response to a fall in plasma osmolality.
Ensuring competency: are fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery training and certification necessary for practicing surgeons and operating room personnel?

Certification in fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS) is required by the American board of surgery for graduating residents. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and need for certifying practicing surgeons and to assess proficiency of operating room (OR) personnel. Through a patient safety and health care delivery effectiveness grant, investigators at four state medical schools received funding for FLS certification of all attending surgeons and OR personnel credentialed in laparoscopy. Data were voluntarily collected under an institutional review board-approved protocol. Surgeons performed a single repetition of the FLS tasks oriented to the FLS proficiency-based curriculum and online cognitive materials and were encouraged to self-practice. The FLS certification examination was administered 2 months later under standard conditions. Operating room nurses and scrub technicians were enrolled in a curriculum with cognitive materials and a multistation skills practicum. Baseline and completion questionnaires were administered. Performance was assessed using signed-rank and χ2 analysis. The study aimed to enroll 99 surgeons. Subsequently, 87 surgeons completed at least one portion of the curriculum, 72 completed the entire curriculum (73 % compliance), 83 completed the baseline skills assessment, and 27 (33 %) failed. The self-reported practice time was 3.7 ± 2.5 h. At certification (n = 76), skills performance had improved from 317 ± 102.9 to 402 ± 54.2 (p < 0.0001). One surgeon (1.3 %) failed the skills certification, and nine (11.8 %) failed the cognitive exam. Remediation was completed by six surgeons. Of the 64 enrolled OR personnel, 22 completed the curriculum (34 % compliance). All achieved proficiency at skills, and 60 % passed the cognitive exam. This study demonstrated that FLS certification for practicing surgeons and proficiency verification for OR personnel are feasible. A baseline skills failure rate of 33 % and a certification failure rate of 13 % suggest that FLS certification may be necessary to ensure surgeon competency. Fortunately, with only moderate practice, significant improvement can be achieved.
Kinematic Redundancy Resolution for Serial-Parallel Manipulators via Local Optimization Including Joint Constraints

This paper presents a method for kinematic redundancy resolution for serial-parallel manipulators using local optimization. The local optimization method is computationally efficient and thus suitable for real-time application. Furthermore, the developed method allows for incorporation of both active and passive joint limits. Accordingly, only feasible trajectory solutions are obtained. The method includes a rule-based, heuristic algorithm to provide smooth transitions between unconstrained and constrained motions. Details of the new algorithm are provided and the efficacy of the approach is established through simulation. Additionally, the algorithm is validated by comparison to a widely accepted global optimization method.
Cytotoxicity and cell-cycle effects of paclitaxel when used as a single agent and in combination with ionizing radiation

PURPOSE This study aimed to determine the extent of paclitaxel-induced cytotoxicity and cell-cycle perturbations when used alone and in combination with radiation in human glioma cells. METHODS AND MATERIALS The effect of paclitaxel alone on three human glioma cells lines--SF-126, U-87 MG, and U-251 MG--was assessed after 24, 48, 72, or 96 h treatment. For experiments in combination with radiation, cells were exposed to either a long (48-h) or short (8-h) duration of paclitaxel treatment prior to irradiation. Cell survival was determined by clonogenic assay. Cell cycle perturbations were assessed by using flow cytometry to measure the proportion of cells in G1, S, and G2/M phases. RESULTS When cells were treated with paclitaxel alone for > or = 24 h, cytotoxicity increased up to a threshold dose, after which it plateaued. When treatment duration was < or = 24 h, cytotoxicity was appreciably greater in U-251 MG cells than in SF-126 and U-87 MG cells. After 24 h of paclitaxel treatment, cells in plateau phase growth had increased survival compared to cells in log phase growth. In contrast, after 8 h paclitaxel treatment, mitotic cells had reduced survival compared to cells from an asynchronous population. Cell-cycle perturbations were consistent with the presence of a mitotic block after paclitaxel treatment, although changes in other cell-cycle phase fractions varied among cell lines. For experiments in combination with radiation, cytotoxicity was increased when cells were irradiated after 48 h of paclitaxel treatment but not after 8 h of treatment. CONCLUSION The duration of paclitaxel treatment and the location of cells in the cell cycle modify the degree of radiation cytotoxicity. The mechanisms of paclitaxel cytotoxicity are likely to be multifactorial because varying effects are seen in different cell lines. Furthermore, it is clear that simply increasing the number of cells in G2/M is insufficient in itself to increase the response of cells to radiation.
A Novel Mitochondrial G8313A Mutation Associated with Prominent Initial Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Progressive Encephaloneuropathy

A Novel Mitochondrial G8313A Mutation Associated with Prominent Initial Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Progressive Encephaloneuropathy
Modeling the effects of inhomogeneous dose distributions in normal tissues.

Conformal radiation therapy frequently produces inhomogeneous dose distributions in normal tissues near the target. Most mathematical models of normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCP) are based on uniform whole or partial organ irradiation, and the model parameters are chosen to obtain agreement with clinical outcomes in these simple situations. Frequently used NTCP models and methods for including inhomogeneous dose distributions in model calculations are outlined in this report. It has been found that the model adopted may qualitatively affect prediction of complications. Limitations placed on current models by the scarcity of reliable complications data and other approaches to using the calculated dose distribution to predict NTCP are discussed.
HIV-1 viral protein r induces ERK and caspase-8-dependent apoptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells

Objective HIV-associated nephropathy is the most common cause of end stage renal disease in persons with HIV/AIDS and is characterized by focal glomerulosclerosis and dysregulated renal tubular epithelial cell (RTEC) proliferation and apoptosis. HIV-1 viral protein r (Vpr) has been implicated in HIV-induced RTEC apoptosis but the mechanisms of Vpr-induced RTEC apoptosis are unknown. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the mechanisms of Vpr-induced apoptosis in RTEC.
Time-Dependent Bridge Network Reliability: Novel Approach

A novel reliability-based approach to evaluating the overall performance of a bridge network and to assessing the reliability importance of individual bridges to the bridge network is presented. The new concepts of the time-dependent bridge network reliability and bridge reliability importance factor (RIF) are introduced. A bridge network is regarded as an assembly of nodes, points, and links. The bridge network reliability is formulated in terms of connectivity between the origin and destination locations. However, this formulation can be extended to include traffic capacity and impacts of bridge maintenance activities on economy, environment, and society. Reliability importance factor is defined as the sensitivity of the bridge network reliability to changes in individual bridge system reliability. This clearly represents the reliability importance of individual bridges in the network. Based on a bridge network topology, a series-parallel path model is created to compute the bridge network reliability using network theories and techniques. This novel approach is illustrated on a group of fourteen existing bridges of different material and structural types located in Colorado. This study provides the basis of a network-level bridge management system where lifetime reliability and life-cycle costs are the key considerations for optimal bridge maintenance strategies.
Units of measurement for fractal extent, applied to the coastal distribution of bald eagle nests in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska.

Attempts to measure the nesting density or territory size of bald eagles led to a fundamental difficulty, inherent in all such measurements on organisms which are distributed along an irregular boundary, such as a coastline. The “length” of such a boundary is not a meaningful measure, and neither can a meaningful “area” be associated with each nest. Mandelbrot's (1983) fractal geometry applies to the problem, but has not previously supplied practical units of measurement for fractals such as coastlines or rugged surfaces. A practical method is given for measuring the “extent” of such fractals, introducing a unit of variable dimension, the “metron”, which includes the existing SI units of length, area and volume as special cases. A linear measure, the “spacing” allows densities on fractals of different dimensions to be compared directly. The method is applied to the distribution of bald eagle nests along the coastlines of two islands in the Aleutians, and an extension of the method to handle distributions on mountainsides and island surfaces is indicated.
Convective heat transfer analysis by the finite element method

Abstract A numerical procedure based on the finite element method is developed for the analysis of general two-dimensional problems in free/forced convection heat transfer. The dicretization of the field equations through use of the Galerkin method is described. Solution methods for both types of steady state convection are presented. The utility and accuracy of the described method is demonstrated through the solution of diverse examples illustrating both forced and free convection analysis. The use of temperature-dependent material properties and the inclusion of solid body conduction effects are also demonstrated.
Morphology of Alfalfa Divergently Selected for Herbage Lignin Concentration

Programs to improve alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) nutritive value have used selection criteria based on total herbage cell-wall composition. There is only limited information addressing the effect of total-herbage based phenotypic selection on changes in dry-matter partitioning of the plant and on the nutritive value of plant parts. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of divergent herbage selection for alfalfa cell-wall components on plant morphology. Two groups of germplasm were observed. Group 1 consisted of six syn-2 lines derived from two-parent combinations, which were randomly selected from 'Saranac-AR' for high (HL) or low (LL) herbage acid-detergent lignin concentration. Group 2 had 11 HL and 13 LL lines that were full-sib lines produced on pairs of parents from the Group 1 synthetics. Group 1 was grown for two harvests in a greenhouse and one harvest in thefield, and Group 2 was grown for two harvests in the field. Compared with HL lines, LL lines had a greater leaf-to-stem ratio, especially in the fraction above the sixth node from the stem base. For LL lines, this ratio in the upper plant fraction was 53, 26, and 18% greater than HL lines for Group 1 greenhouse, Group 1 field, and Group 2, respectively. When harvested at the same time, LL lines were less mature than HL lines, and, for Group 2, main stem length of LL lines was about 30 mm shorter than HL lines. Dry-matter yield of HL lines was 17, 28, and 28% greater than LL lines for Group 1 greenhouse, Group 1 field, and Group 2, respectively. Most of the differences between divergent types were related to changes above the sixth node. Thus, selection for improved nutritive value in total herbage of alfalfa may result in marked changes in plant morphology.
Genetic evidence of PTPN22 effects on chronic lymphocytic leukemia

To the editor: The recent article by Negro et al represents a thorough investigation into the effect of Lyp, the gene product of PTPN22 , on BCR signaling in the pathogenesis and progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).[1][1] This study shows that increased Lyp enhances Akt, a serine/
Modeling multicomponent organic chemical transport in three-fluid-phase porous media

Abstract A two-dimensional finite-element model was developed to predict coupled transient flow and multicomponent transport of organic chemicals which can partition between nonaqueous phase liquid, water, gas and solid phases in porous media under the assumption of local chemical equilibrium. Gas-phase pressure gradients are assumed negligible and liquid flow equations are solved simultaneously using an upstream weighted solution method with time-lagged interphase mass-transfer terms and phase densities. Phase-summed component transport equations are solved serially after computation of the velocity field also by an upstream weighted finite-element method. Mass-transfer rates are evaluated from individual phase transport equations by back-substitution and corrected for mass-balance errors. A number of hypothetical one- and two-dimensional simulations were performed to evaluate the applicability of the model to predict the transport of slightly soluble and volatile organics in three-fluid-phase porous media. Results indicate that mass-transfer rate and fluid density updating have negligible effects during periods of highly transient nonaqueous liquid phase migration but become important for long-term simulations as cumulative dissolution to the water phase and volatilization to the gas phase account for longer proportions of the total mass. Due to low solubilities of environmentally important organic liquids, the efficiency of organic removal by aqueous-phase dissolution and transport can be very slow. Gas-phase diffusion can have a significant influence on the mass transport of organics with large Henry's constants.
A branching process approach to a problem connected with a t..v. game show

On considere un jeu generalise base sur un processus ramifie et on utilise certains des resultats connus dans le domaine des processus ramifie pour repondre aux questions posees par Price et Tenensein dans un article anterieur (1976)
Characteristics of brain and liver monoamine oxidase in a reptile, Anolis carolinensis.

Abstract 1. 1. Subcellular distribution, p H optima, thermostability, and effects of enzyme inhibitors were studied for monoamine oxidase (E.C. 1.4.3.4) in brain and liver of the American chameleon, Anolis carolinensis , in order to characterize the enzyme in this reptilian species and to ascertain the probability of isozymes of monoamine oxidase (MAO). 2. 2. As in mammals, subcellular localization of MAO was found to be primarily mitochondrial, with a smaller but definite percentage associated with the microsomal fraction. 3. 3. Optimal p H values for MAO in homogenates and mitochondrial and microsomal fractions of brain and liver were quite similar, about p H 10 with 5-hydroxytryptamine as substrate. 4. 4. Thermostability studies suggested that whole homogenates of brain and liver were dissimilar in their relative contents of possible isozymal complements and that subcellular fractions, particularly from brain, were different in thermosensitivity. 5. 5. Responses to iproniazid were similar for brain and liver, but inhibition by differing concentrations of M & B 9302 indicated the probable presence of isozymes of MAO in these two tissues, as has been demonstrated for brain and liver of some mammalian species by use of the same inhibitor.
Ramet demography of a clonal invader, Arundo donax (Poaceae), in Southern California

Arundo donax L. is a rhizomatous perennial, asexually reproducing species that has invaded riparian habitats throughout Mediterranean climate zones. This research evaluated ramet demography of A. donax in two California riparian communities that differed in nitrogen availability. Quadrats were established along 100 m transects at each site and oriented across the advancing fronts of established populations. Morphology and phenology were assessed monthly over 1 year for calculation of demographic parameters and rhizomes were excavated and mapped at the end of the experiment. A. donax exhibited seasonal patterns of recruitment but no dormancy at the high nitrogen site, while at the low nitrogen site no recruitment occurred in the winter and maximum recruitment was delayed by a month relative to the high nitrogen site. Spread of A. donax was delayed until spring and lower overall in the low nitrogen site compared to the high nitrogen site, where lower initial density, greater production of shoots, and higher linear and areal addition indicated that this population was spreading more rapidly. Temperature and precipitation influenced seasonality and amount of recruitment of A. donax in this study. Several recently established, immature clumps were found in gaps at the low nitrogen site, likely due to flood-mediated dispersal of propagules. Recruitment in these clumps occurred from shoot buds, in contrast to the mature populations that reproduced from rhizome buds. Ecologically based management strategies for A. donax and other exotic species should account for differences such as those described here and be tailored to local conditions where the species occurs.
Ceratitis capitata: Effect of host fruit size on the number of eggs per clutch

A laboratory strain of Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) was presented with grapes, plums, apples and peaches for oviposition. Fruit diameter was highly correlated with the number of eggs/oviposition. Clutch size was 3.9 ± 0.3 for grapes (20 mm) compared with 14.0 ± 0.7 for apples (70 mm). When Parafilm®-enveloped whole peeled fruits and smaller spheres of fruit flesh were offered, fruit size proved more important than fruit type in determining egg clutch sizes. Ovipositions that required the puncture of fruit skin gave larger clutches than ovipositions through Parafilm or into punctured fruit. Zusammenfassung Ceratitis capitata: Einfluss der Fruchtgrosse auf die Zahl der Eier in einer Eiablage Einem Laboratoriumsstamm von Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) wurden Trauben, Pflaumen, Aepfel und Pfirsiche zur Eiablage vorgelegt. Der Fruchtdurchmesser war stark korreliert mit der Eizahl pro Eiablage. Die Grosse der Eihaufen war 3,9 ± 0,3 bei Trauben (20 mm) und 14,0 ± 0,7 bei Aepfeln (70 mm). Wenn geschalte und mit Parafilm® eingehullte ganze Fruchte und Fruchtscheiben vorgelegt wurden, war die Fruchtgrosse wichtiger als der Fruchttyp fur die Grosse der Eiablage. Eiablagen, bei denen die Fruchthaut durchbohrt werden musste, waren grosser als Eiablagen durch Parafilm oder in perforierte Fruchte.
Near-millimeter waves

This paper provides a brief overview of the field of near-millimeter waves and serves as an introduction to the five following papers. The nomenclature and spectral regions are defined and a historical summary is given. Brief comments are then given about the contents of the succeeding articles.