cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structure-Function Analysis of CD14 as a Soluble Receptor for Lipopolysaccharide

CD14 is a glycophosphatidylinositol-linked protein expressed by myeloid cells and also circulates as a plasma protein lacking the glycophosphatidylinositol anchor. Both membrane and soluble CD14 function to enhance activation of cells by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which we refer to as receptor function. We have previously reported the LPS binding and cell activation functions of a group of five deletion mutants of CD14 (Viriyakosol, S., and Kirkland, T.N. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 361–368). We have now studied the functional impact of these mutations on soluble CD14. We found that some deletions that abrogated LPS binding in membrane CD14 have no effect on LPS binding in soluble CD14. In fact, some of the soluble CD14 deletion mutants bound LPS with an apparent higher affinity than wild-type CD14. Furthermore, we found that all five deletions essentially ablated soluble CD14 LPS receptor function, whereas only two of the deletions completely destroyed membrane CD14 LPS receptor function. Some of the mutants were able to compete with wild-type CD14 in soluble CD14-dependent assays of cellular activation. We concluded that the soluble and membrane forms of CD14 have different structural determinants for LPS receptor function.
Detection threshold of sensory panels for mealiiness of baked potatoes as related to specific gravity differences

Thresholds of mealiness detection in baked potatoes were demonstrated in three series of tests each representing three specific gavity levels within a broad range of 1.096 to 1.056.
Calciphylaxis due to hyperparathyroidism.

ABSTRACT Objective To discuss when and how to workup calciphylaxis for early diagnosis and to delineate medical vs surgical management of the disease. Methods Review of evidence-based medical literature on calciphylaxis due to primary, secondary, and tertiary hyperparathyroidism. Results Calciphylaxis is usually associated with secondary and tertiary hyperparathyroidism. However, calciphylaxis can also be seen in the absence of chronic renal failure and has been reported in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism due to a parathyroid adenoma or carcinoma. Calciphylaxis occurs when the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood exceed their solubility level, leading to calcium-phosphate deposits in arteries that compromise the vasculature. These ischemic changes result in plaque-like lesions that progress to painful nodules. Calciphylaxis is diagnosed on the basis of physical examination, laboratory, and histopathologic findings. When medical therapy has failed in the setting of secondary/tertiary hyperparathyroidism with calciphylaxis, parathyroidectomy is the preferred treatment. In primary hyperparathyroidism, early recognition and aggressive wound care with debridement are important in managing this condition. However, resection of the offending parathyroid gland should be strongly considered. Conclusions When calciphylaxis is present, early detection is critical to the successful management of this condition. Although medical therapy can be effective, surgical resection of the diseased parathyroid glands can be curative and potentially life saving. A multidisciplinary approach involving early diagnosis, aggressive medical management, operative debridement, and parathyroidectomy has the best chance of improving survival in calciphylaxis. (Endocr Pract. 2011;17[Suppl 1]:54-56)
Serum Glutamic Oxalacetic Transaminase Content in Hypothermia.

When the body temperature of pentobarbitalized dogs was lowered, by surface-immersion technique, to 27°-26°C, elevations in serum glutamic oxalacetic transaminase were found only after a period of prolonged hypothermia (12 hours). When the animals were rewarmed, serum levels returned to normal. Histologic study of organs rich in glutamic oxalacetic transaminase revealed no necrosis. The cause for the elevations is not known, although increased membrane permeability secondary to prolonged cold may be a factor.
A Historical Systems Study of Liquid Rocket Engine Throttling Capabilities

This is a comprehensive systems study to examine and evaluate throttling capabilities of liquid rocket engines. The focus of this study is on engine components, and how the interactions of these components are considered for throttling applications. First, an assessment of space mission requirements is performed to determine what applications require engine throttling. A background on liquid rocket engine throttling is provided, along with the basic equations that are used to predict performance. Three engines are discussed that have successfully demonstrated throttling. Next, the engine system is broken down into components to discuss special considerations that need to be made for engine throttling. This study focuses on liquid rocket engines that have demonstrated operational capability on American space launch vehicles, starting with the Apollo vehicle engines and ending with current technology demonstrations. Both deep throttling and shallow throttling engines are discussed. Boost and sustainer engines have demonstrated throttling from 17% to 100% thrust, while upper stage and lunar lander engines have demonstrated throttling in excess of 10% to 100% thrust. The key difficulty in throttling liquid rocket engines is maintaining an adequate pressure drop across the injector, which is necessary to provide propellant atomization and mixing. For the combustion chamber, cooling can be an issue at low thrust levels. For turbomachinery, the primary considerations are to avoid cavitation, stall, surge, and to consider bearing leakage flows, rotordynamics, and structural dynamics. For valves, it is necessary to design valves and actuators that can achieve accurate flow control at all thrust levels. It is also important to assess the amount of nozzle flow separation that can be tolerated at low thrust levels for ground testing.
A Gill-Net Platform for Studying the Depth Distribution of Fish

(1967). A Gill-Net Platform for Studying the Depth Distribution of Fish. The Progressive Fish-Culturist: Vol. 29, No. 2, pp. 118-120.
Repair kinetics of acrolein- and (E)-4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-derived DNA adducts in human colon cell extracts.

ω-3 and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play a role in the pathogenesis of colon cancer. Upon oxidation, PUFAs generate α,β-unsaturated aldehydes or enals, such as acrolein (Acr) and (E)-4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE), which can form cyclic adducts of deoxyguanosine (Acr-dG and HNE-dG, respectively) in DNA. Both Acr-dG and HNE-dG adducts have been detected in human and animal tissues and are potentially mutagenic and carcinogenic. In vivo levels of Acr-dG in DNA are at least two orders of magnitude higher than those of HNE-dG. In addition to the facile reaction with Acr, the higher levels of Acr-dG than HNE-dG in vivo may be due to a lower rate of repair. Previous studies have shown that HNE-dG adducts are repaired by the NER pathway (Choudhury et al. [42]). We hypothesize that Acr-dG adducts are repaired at a slower rate than HNE-dG and that HNE-dG in DNA may influence the repair of Acr-dG. In this study, using a DNA repair synthesis assay and a LC–MS/MS method, we showed that Acr-dG in a plasmid DNA is repaired by NER proteins, but it is repaired at a much slower rate than HNE-dG in human colon cell extracts, and the slow repair of Acr-dG is likely due to poor recognition/excision of the lesions in DNA. Furthermore, using a plasmid DNA containing both adducts we found the repair of Acr-dG is significantly inhibited by HNE-dG, however, the repair of HNE-dG is not much affected by Acr-dG. This study demonstrates that the NER repair efficiencies of the two major structurally-related in vivo cyclic DNA adducts from lipid oxidation vary greatly. More importantly, the repair of Acr-dG can be significantly retarded by the presence of HNE-dG in DNA. Therefore, this study provides a mechanistic explanation for the higher levels of Acr-dG than HNE-dG observed in tissue DNA.
Bayesian optimal control of Markovian genetic regulatory networks

Finding optimal control policies for Markovian genetic regulatory networks requires that the transition probabilities be known precisely. In practice, due to practical limitations and complex nature of the underlying system, this knowledge may be inaccurate or incomplete. To address this difficulty, we construct an uncertainty set around the true network and define a probability distribution over this set, which reflects our prior knowledge about the underlying system. We take a Bayesian approach and formulate the optimal control policy minimizing the expected infinite-horizon discounted cost relative to this uncertainty class, resulting in an intrinsically robust policy.
Coherent control of high-harmonic generation using waveform-synthesized chirped laser fields

We show that waveform-synthesized chirped laser fields are efficient tools for coherent harmonic control. A single harmonic order, or two harmonic orders, can be selectively enhanced by using a two-color field allowing a moderate linear chirp for each color. Different harmonic orders within a wide spectral range can be selectively enhanced by adjusting the laser parameters. Our theory bridges two current harmonic control techniques, namely, single-color phase shaping and multicolor amplitude synthesis, and opens the door to new harmonic control possibilities.
Overload Recovery Circuit for Charge Amplifiers

In this paper the operation of low noise charge preamplifiers under high instantaneous pulse rates - "bursts" - is considered. An overload recovery circuit employing a field-effect transistor as the switch for the recovery current is described. The overload charge generated in the detector by the radiation burst in a time short compared to the small signal resolving time of the spectrometer may be 105 or more times larger than the charge due to a single particle to be measured between the bursts. The recovery time of the charge amplifier with the recovery circuit is less than 10 ?sec. With a conventional amplifier-filter, the recovery time of the system to within the noise level is 50 to 100 ?sec. The increase in noise due to the recovery circuit corresponds to an increase in the input capacitance of the charge amplifier of 2 pF.
Polarized Vibrational Infrared Absorption of Graphene Nanoribbons

We present for the first time the linearly polarized vibrational infrared spectra of edge-hydrogenated armchair and zigzag graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) through first-principles calculations. We find...
Effects of Carprofen and Morphine on the Minimum Alveolar Concentration of Isoflurane in Dogs

The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane in dogs was determined following carprofen (2.2 mg/kg per os) alone, morphine (1 mg/kg intravenously) alone, carprofen and morphine, and no drug control in eight healthy adult dogs. Isoflurane MAC following administration of morphine alone (0.81%+/-0.18%) or carprofen and morphine (0.68%+/-0.31%) was significantly less than the control MAC (1.24%+/-0.15%). Isoflurane MAC after carprofen alone (1.13%+/-0.13%) was not significantly different from the control value. Results indicated that administration of morphine alone or in combination with carprofen significantly reduced the MAC of isoflurane in dogs. The isoflurane MAC reduction was additive between the effects of carprofen and morphine.
A 2-year study of Gram stain competency assessment in 40 clinical laboratories

We used a computer-based competency assessment tool for Gram stain interpretation to assess the performance of 278 laboratory staff from 40 laboratories on 40 multiple-choice questions. We report test reliability, mean scores, median, item difficulty, discrimination, and analysis of the highest- and lowest-scoring questions. The questions were reliable (KR-20 coefficient, 0.80). Overall mean score was 88% (range, 63%-98%). When categorized by cell type, the means were host cells, 93%; other cells (eg, yeast), 92%; gram-positive, 90%; and gram-negative, 88%. When categorized by type of interpretation, the means were other (eg, underdecolorization), 92%; identify by structure (eg, bacterial morphologic features), 91%; and identify by name (eg, genus and species), 87%. Of the 6 highest-scoring questions (mean scores, > or = 99%) 5 were identify by structure and 1 was identify by name. Of the 6 lowest-scoring questions (mean scores, < 75%) 5 were gram-negative and 1 was host cells. By type of interpretation, 2 were identify by structure and 4 were identify by name. Computer-based Gram stain competency assessment examinations are reliable. Our analysis helps laboratories identify areas for continuing education in Gram stain interpretation and will direct future revisions of the tests.
Containment capsule stresses for encapsulated phase change materials

Abstract The encapsulation of a phase change material to store thermal energy is considered here for concentrated solar power systems. The stress distribution in a spherical nickel shell of 250 μ thickness formed around a ball of zinc by the electroless deposition process and a stainless steel cylindrical shell containing zinc are considered. The effect of external forces and imperfections within the shell structure that could affect the deformation are also modeled. The aim of the simulations performed is to establish a suitable thickness for the encapsulating material. It is concluded that while the shell can deform and safely withstand the anticipated expansion of the zinc, the added effects from point loads caused by the weight of the surrounding encapsulated capsules and other possible imperfections in the capsule structure could cause failure. A three-dimensional finite element model is used to establish the stresses in cylinders of different aspect ratio caused by the expansion of zinc as it melts inside of the encapsulation. The amount of void space that must be left inside of the capsule, so that the expansion of the zinc during phase change and the increase in gas pressure inside of the vessel will not cause failure of the shell, is determined from simulations. Results indicate that the cylinder with welded ends could easily contain up to 86% of the initial volume full of zinc with only a very small amount of plastic deformation, less than 0.5% strain, corresponding to an internal pressure of 2.03 MPa.
Rapid test for the detection of tay-sachs disease heterozygotes and homozygotes by serum hexosaminidase assay

Abstract Total serum hexosaminidase activity is generally measured quantitatively by the amount of fluorescent product formed by action of its various isoenzymes on the 4-methyl-umbelliferyl-β-D-N-acetylglucosaminide substrate at pH 4.5. Only the heat labile form of the enzyme (Hex A) is inactive in fluids and tissues of Tay-Sachs children. Known carriers (parents) have serum Hex A values about sol1 2 of those found for non-carriers. Carrier detection tests, presently utilized for the mass screening of the Ashkenazi Jewish population, are based either on prolonged heat inactivation or electrophoretic separation of Hex A from its other serum isoenzymes. We found that serum Hex A can also be inactivated by 5 min incubation at pH 2.8 ± 0.05 and 37°. This finding led to a simple, rapid, quantitative assay for Hex A which was applied to 29 sera (14 normal, 8 carrier, 4 pregnancy and 3 Tay-Sachs disease). Except for the pregnancy and carrier groups, there was no overlap in serum Hex A values for any of the other categories. The results by acid pH inactivation correlated well with those obtained by the heat denaturation procedure. The greater potential of the acid inactivation method for automated systems, suitable for mass screening of carriers, is presently under development.
Bridging the gap between air transportation system simulations and environmental models for NextGen benefits assessment

Presents a collection of slides from the author's conference presentation. This work enables assessment of tradeoffs between NextGen operational and environmental objectives at the NAS-wide scale
Physical Activity and Fruit and Vegetable Intake Among American Indians

The American Indian population has among the highest rates of obesity in the United States. Thus, it is critical to understand factors related to this epidemic (e.g., physical activity, nutrition) among this ethnic minority population. The current study examined factors related to engaging in at least 4 days of physical activity (PA) per week and factors related to consuming at least 5 fruits and vegetables (FV) per day among a sample of American Indians in the Midwest. We used multiple methods to recruit participants for this study, including recruitment at pow wows, focus groups, health fairs, new student orientation for American Indian students, and other venues. A total of 998 American Indians (76% participation rate) completed a survey assessing sociodemographics, physical activity level, fruit and vegetable intake, and perceptions regarding the recommendations for physical activity and fruit and vegetable intake. Factors associated with exercising ≥4 days in the past week (44.77% of the sample) include being younger (P = .002), being male (P < .001), having at least some college education (P = .048), eating ≥5 FV per day, and higher perceived number of days of PA recommended (P < .001). Factors associated with eating ≥5 servings of FV per day (37.01% of the sample) included exercising ≥4 days in the past week (P < .001) and higher perceived number of servings of FV recommended (P < .001). These findings highlight the importance of education in enhancing engagement in positive weight control behaviors and the importance of addressing both physical activity and nutrition among the American Indian population.
Insights from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service

In recent years, mediation has become increasingly popular as a means to resolve conflict. One important issue that arises out of the recent explosive growth in the practice of mediation is. what do mediators need to know in order to assist the parties in resolving their conflicts? This research attemtps to identify the determinants of mediator competence by examining the knowledge, skills and abilities of mediators in public sector labor relations. The research focuses on the core competencies requirements for mediators with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service and suggests which of the competencies may be applicable to mediation in other contexts.
Holocaust Education: Global Forces Shaping Curricula Integration and Implementation.

The article provides a critical review of the global scholarship on Holocaust education (HE). Despite the growing body of work on this topic, a search through major academic databases by the authors revealed that no such review of the research literature has been published as of yet. The review focuses on three main themes across the research literature: (1) the emergence of HE in (national) school curricula; (2) the relationship between Holocaust memorialization and education; and (3) the potential of HE for teaching about xenophobia, racism, and human rights more broadly. Moreover, the authors offer a rhizomatic framework for consideration, and expand on the numerous factors that have complicated the emergence and integration of HE into school curricula globally: (a) involvement and role of nations with the Holocaust; (b) forms of governance in the years following the Holocaust; (c) societal desire to ‘forget’ the horrors of war and return to the routine of normalcy; (d) particular nations’ history of a...
Implications of nested designs in school-based mental health services research

Abstract Evaluating school-based mental health services for children and youth with emotional disturbance (ED) has been a challenge for researchers. One particular challenge is the study design of using the student as the statistical unit of analysis, which in certain cases may lead to a violation of the “independence of error” assumption. However, the alternative to this nested design, including fewer students and more schools, can be costly and administratively complex. This study examines data from two national studies including 314 students with ED and served in special education programs and their caregivers from 24 schools in the US to identify the extent to which nesting or design effects occur in this population. The results show that variables focusing on psychopathology are less affected by nesting but school-related variables such as academic functioning are more affected. Design effects varied by grade level, suggesting that grade should be considered when designing such evaluations.
NEW CHALLENGES FACING INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE IN THE POST-GENOMIC ERA

The future of biology will be increasingly driven by the fundamental paradigm shift from hypothesis-driven research to data-driven discovery research employing the growing volume of biological data coupled to experimental testing of new discoveries. But hardware and software limitations in the current workflow infrastructure make it impossible or intractible to use real data from disparate sources for large-scale biological research. We identify key technological developments needed to enable this paradigm shift involving (1) the ability to store and manage extremely large datasets which are dispersed over a wide geographical area, (2) development of novel analysis and visualization tools which are capable of operating on enormous data resources without overwhelming researchers with unusable information, and (3) formalisms for integrating mathematical models of biosystems from the molecular level to the organism population level. This will require the development of algorithms and tools which efficiently utilize high-performance compute power and large storage infrastructures. The end result will be the ability of a researcher to integrate complex data from many different sources with simulations to analyze a given system at a wide range of temporal and spatial scales in a single conceptual model.
Contrast to Labeled Rehydrated, Lyophilized Platelets Using Magnetomotive OCT

Rehydrated, lyophilized platelets for hemostatic therapy are incorporated with commercial MRI iron oxide contrast agents. We demonstrate that magnetomotive OCT contrasts the platelets and propose this system for monitoring hemopathic sites targeted by platelets.
Estimation of managed loblolly pine stand age and density with Landsat ETM+ data

We analyzed the relationship between Landsat ETM+ reflectance values and commercially managed loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) stand characteristics in east Texas. Multivariate regression techniques were used to predict age and tree density for all stands. A linear combination of NDVI, ETM4/ETM3 and the tasseled cap wetness index was a better predictor of stand age (R 2 = 78%) than other combinations of original bands and derived indices. However, models involving transformed bands did not improve the overall predictability of stand density (R 2 = 60%). Results from the principal component analyses (PCA) conducted on mature stands (age > 18 years) yielded valuable information about the relationship between stand structure and reflectance values recorded by the ETM+ sensor. The first principal component was interpreted as a measure of stand complexity. A linear regression model with infrared bands 4 and 5 as independent variables was able to account for 76% of the variability in stand structure. A second model with transformed bands did not increase the amount of variability in stand structure. Results obtained from this study demonstrate the relationship between loblolly pine stand characteristics and ETM+ reflectance values and the utility of certain transformed bands. Forest managers could use ETM+ data for gaining insights about stand characteristics and this information would be also useful for generating maps required for developing forest management plans. # 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Infections with Plasmodium gallinaceum in chick embryos induced by exoerythrocytic and blood stages.

embryonated birds' eggs was unsuccessfully attempted by a number of investigators before positive results were finally obtained. Huff and Bloom (1935) failed to infect canary embryos with Plasmodium elongatum. In 1938, Chorine tried to infect chick embryos with blood containing Plasmodium gallinaceum. Embryos inoculated intravenously and intramuscularly remained uninfected, as did those in which the blood was placed on the chorio-allantoic membrane. Gavrilov, in a note appended to Chorine' s paper, and in an independent publication (Gavrilov, Bobkoff and Laurencin, 1938) reported similar negative results. Rita (1940) in discussing his negative results with the same parasite concluded that the chick embryo was insusceptible due to some factor associated with the oxygenation of its tissues.
Prenatal stress and increased fluctuating asymmetry in the parietal bones of neonatal rats

Recent studies have reported increased fluctuating dental and long bone asymmetry in neonates as a function of prenatal stress. The present study was designed to assess the effects of prenatal stress on a third calcium-dependent system, membranous bone. Pregnant rats were exposed to cold, heat, or noise from conception through parturition. Bilateral parietal bone lengths were measured in the term neonates. Levels of fluctuating asymmetry were found to be significantly increased (p less than .001) in all three stressed groups compared to unstressed controls. Results support the concept of a generalized stress response, and suggestions are offered for human osteological application.
Force coordination during bimanual task performance in Parkinson's disease.

We investigated within- and between-hand grip-load force coordination in medically managed Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients during bimanual tasks involving realistic actions. Increased grip force production and evidence of bradykinesia were expected in PD patients. Force coordination indices were also expected to be reduced in PD, due to impaired anticipatory force control. Increased grip force, bradykinesia, and abnormal load force production were exhibited in PD patients as compared to healthy controls. Indices of between-hand load force coordination, but not between-hand grip force coordination, were reduced in PD patients. Discrepancies in the strength of within-hand force coordination with respect to hand action were also noted in PD patients. Increased grip force production, in conjunction with abnormal load force production, may result in reduced fine motor control in PD patients during daily activities. Integrating quantitative analyses of realistic motor function in clinic may assist clinicians in evaluating the effectiveness of medical intervention in PD patients.
A Pyk2–Vav1 complex is recruited to β3-adhesion sites to initiate Rho activation

Integrin αvβ3-mediated adhesion of haemopoietic cells to vitronectin results in β3 tyrosine phosphorylation and Rho activation which is necessary for adhesion. Previously, we have shown that the RhoGEF (Rho guanine-nucleotide-exchange factor) Vav1 could associate indirectly with αvβ3 during leucocyte adhesion to vitronectin. In the present study, we have identified the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Pyk2 (proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2) as the adaptor protein that links Vav1 with αvβ3. The association of Pyk2 and Vav1 with β3 relies on the presence of Tyr 747 in β3, the primary site of β3 phosphorylation. However, association of Pyk2 with Vav1 is independent of β3 tyrosine phosphorylation. Formation of a Pyk2–Vav1 complex occurs upon cell adhesion and Pro 717 of Pyk2 plays a key role in Pyk2 interaction with Vav1. Utilizing purified recombinant proteins, we confirmed the direct interaction between Pyk2 and Vav1 In vitro . Cells transfected with GFP (green fluorescent protein)–Pyk2-P717A demonstrated severely suppressed cytoskeletal reorganization, impaired Vav1 recruitment, decreased Rho GTPase activation and loss of cell adhesion. Using siRNA (small interfering RNA) to specifically reduce Pyk2 levels in cells resulted in disrupted association between Vav1 and β3 and impaired cell adhesion. These results indicate that Pyk2 is a critical signalling molecule downstream of β3 integrin tyrosine phosphorylation and mediates Vav1 recruitment to accomplish actin reorganization necessary for adhesion.
Identification and distribution of endoplasmic reticulum iPLA2.

Abstract Our laboratory demonstrated that endoplasmic reticulum iPLA2 (ER-iPLA2) activity protects renal cells from oxidant-induced cell death and lipid peroxidation. The goals of this study were to determine the PLA2 isoform(s) responsible for ER-iPLA2 activity in different species and tissues. ER-iPLA2 activity was observed in microsomes from rabbit and rat kidney, heart, and brain as well as in human kidney (Caki-1 and HEK293) and glioblastoma (A172) cell lines. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction results demonstrated the presence of iPLA2γ (group VIB PLA2) message in all tissues tested. Immunoblot analysis and PLA2 inhibitor studies with methyl arachidonyl fluorophosphonate and enantiomers of bromoenol lactone demonstrated that the ER-iPLA2 in rabbit kidney and heart and rat kidney is iPLA2γ. These results demonstrate the expression of ER-iPLA2γ (group VIB) across species and tissues, and suggest that iPLA2γ may play critical roles in oxidant-induced cell injury.
Two-photon excitation spectra of the higher lying m1 Ag states of octatetraene

Abstract The 2-photon excitation spectra of all- trans -octatetraene in n-hexane and n-octane host crystals at 1.8K have been recorded for the region 28 000 to 50 000 cm −1 . On the basis of their frequencies, intensities, and solvent shift behaviors all of the bands in the region 28 000 to 40 000 cm −1 are assigned to vibronic bands of the 1 1 A g – 2 1 A g transition. Four bands are detected above 44 000 cm −1 . Two of them must be assigned to 0-0 transitions from the 1 1 A g ground state to the higher lying 1 A g states at 45 030 and 46 710 cm −1 , respectively. The other two bands at 48 000 and 49 860 cm −1 could be either vibronic addition to the 0-0 band at 46 710 cm −1 or 0-0 bands for the new m 1 A g states.
Polyyne ring nucleus growth model for single-layer carbon nanotubes.

We propose, based on recent experimental results, a polyyne ring nucleus (PRN) growth model for the synthesis of single-layer nanotubes (SLN's). The PRN model assumes that (i) the critical nuclei are the planar carbon polyyne rings that are observed to be most stable for sizes in the range C10 to C40; (ii) ComCn clusters (possibly charged) play the role of a catalyst by serving to add C2 or other gas phase species into the growing tube; (iii) promoters such as S, Bi, and Pb serve to modify the rates for these processes by stabilizing the ring structure. We suggest experiments to test and amplify this PRN model, including a flow tube arrangement that might be useful for synthesizing more uniform SLN's.
Engineering Education: A View Ahead

The forces acting on engineering education are discussed, and it is shown that all these seem to point to a need for further movement away from technician training, and toward much further study of the fundamental sciences of nature in the education of all engineers for the future years. The place of mathematics in a computer age is also reviewed, and it is mentioned that the importance of the "physical model" decreases as the use of mathematics increases. A simplification of the definition of engineering is proposed which places emphasis on the separation of science and art, showing the former to be the duty of a university, the latter of the industrial employer. The basis for an electrical engineering curriculum to treat the subject as a science is outlined and discussed as now being applied at one school.
Synthesis and characterization of silicon nanowires on mesophase carbon microbead substrates by chemical vapor deposition.

Silicon nanowires (SiNWs) have been fabricated by chemical vapor deposition at ambient pressure using SiCl4 as a silicon source and mesophase carbon microbead powder as a substrate without any templates and/or metal catalysts. The SiNWs have a crystalline core with a very thin amorphous SiOx sheath. The obtained SiNWs are homogeneous with average diameters below 50 nm and lengths up to micrometers. Temperature and time effects on the growth of SiNWs were systematically studied. Higher reaction temperatures and longer reaction times resulted in larger diameters and higher yields of SiNWs. SiNWs with a better crystallinity can be obtained at higher temperatures and longer reaction times. The obtained SiNWs were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy.
Structural Analysis of Nonlinear Control Systems Using Singular Value Decomposition: Part I — Approach

Structural information of a system/controller allows a designer to diagnose performance characteristics in advance and to make better choices of solution methods. Singular value decomposition (SVD) is a powerful structural analysis tool that has been applied to linear systems and controller designs, but it has not been used for nonlinear systems. In this paper, SVD is use to structurally analyze and to optimally design nonlinear control systems using the linear algebraic equivalence of the nonlinear controller. Specifically, SVD is used to identify control input/output mode shapes, and the control input/output distribution patterns are analyzed with the mode shapes. Optimizing control effort and performance is achieved by truncating some mode shapes in the linear mode shape combinations.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Characterization of eight polymorphic microsatellite loci for the endangered Alabama red-bellied turtle (Pseudemys alabamensis; Emydidae)

The federally endangered Alabama red-bellied turtle (ARBT; Pseudemys alabamensis) occurs in an isolated range in southern Alabama and Mississippi. Several distinct nesting populations of ARBT exist within this range. Here we identify eight microsatellite markers to be used for a genetic comparison of members of these populations. Previously isolated microsatellite loci in the related species Pseudemys floridana amplified cleanly from DNA extracted from ARBT tissue samples. Alleles at all eight loci were polymorphic. Alleles ranged in size from 136 to 295 base pairs in length. The total number of alleles at each locus ranged from 2 to 11. Loci showed no evidence of linkage disequilibrium or variation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.13 to 0.88 and 0.12 to 0.84 respectively. Some variation in alleles was observed among members of different nesting populations suggesting that these eight loci will be an important tool in further assessing population structure of Pseudemys alabamensis.
Simulating hydrological response for the R-5 catchment: comparison of two models and the impact of the roads

In this paper the performance of two hydrological-response models is evaluated and compared based upon simulations for a single rainfall–runoff event. The two models are QPBRRM, a relatively simple model of Horton overland flow, and InHM, a comprehensive physics-based model of each of the known streamflow generation mechanisms. The rainfall–runoff event focused upon in this study is from the small rangeland catchment in Oklahoma known as R-5. When calibrated, both QPBRRM and InHM are shown to effectively simulate the R-5 event. The calibration procedures used in this study for QPBRRM and InHM were quite different. The calibration of QPBRRM was a curve fitting exercise, whereas the calibration of InHM was based upon an internally valid estimate of the continuous head field. In this study QPBRRM did not perform well outside of the calibrated range. The impact of the roads cutting across the R-5 catchment is simulated with InHM and discussed for the first time in the study reported here. The relative merits of QPBRRM and InHM are each discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genotype regulates the development of tolerance to ethanol and cross-tolerance to nicotine

The long-sleep (LS) and short-sleep (SS) mouse lines were selectively bred for differential sensitivity to the anesthetic actions of ethanol, but they also differ in sensitivity to nicotine. A recent study suggested that the LS mice develop more tolerance to ethanol and cross-tolerance to nicotine than do the SS following chronic ethanol treatment. The studies reported here expand on these previous studies by assessing potential tolerance to ethanol and cross-tolerance to nicotine using additional behavioral and physiological measures. In addition, the effects of chronic ethanol treatment on ethanol and nicotine metabolism were measured. The LS mice developed tolerance to ethanol as measured by effects on open-field activity, body temperature, and sleep time, whereas the SS mice did not develop consistent tolerance to ethanol's effects on any of these measures. Cross-tolerance to nicotine's effects on open-field activity and body temperature developed, but only in the LS mice. The ethanol tolerance is likely due to changes in CNS sensitivity to ethanol, but altered elimination of nicotine may explain much of the cross-tolerance to nicotine seen in chronic ethanol-treated LS mice.
Nongonococcal Urethritis: A Few Answers but Mostly Questions

many of the aspects of NGU that are frustrating for providers and patients alike. Where would we stand with pneumonia if it were classified dichotomously as "pneumococcal" and " nonpneumococcal" (or, still, " atypical")? That said, treatment of men with urethritis according to the gonococcal/nongonococcal divide serves most patients well in the short run. It is quick and easy to reliably distinguish gonorrhea from NGU on clinical grounds and by microscopy, and, by luck, most cases of NGU respond to treatment with azithromycin or a tetracycline. Nonetheless, the management of affected men and their sex partners and the development of prevention strategies have
Effectiveness of a Health Education Program in a Lower Socioeconomic Population Replication of an Ipecac Guidance Stud y

When teaching home safety, we selectively highlight those hazards most likely to injure children at various developmental stages. In one of the few studies evaluating this approach, we successfully taught a middle class population appropriate home use of ipecac syrup. The study reported herein replicated that study in a lower socioeconomic population. Although learning occurred, statistical significance was not quite achieved.While this study does not refute the "targeted" approach, it does demonstrate that characteristics of the population are likely to affect the educational outcome. Impressive statistical improvement may not be demonstrated. Individual realistic goals must be established prior to implementation and evaluation of a program.
When Can History Be Our Guide? The Pitfalls of Counterfactual Inference

Inferences about counterfactuals are essential for prediction, answering “what if” questions, and estimating causal effects. However, when the counterfactuals posed are too far from the data at hand, conclusions drawn from well-specified statistical analyses become based on speculation and convenient but indefensible model assumptions rather than empirical evidence. Unfortunately, standard statistical approaches assume the veracity of the model rather than revealing the degree of model-dependence, so this problem can be hard to detect. We develop easy-to-apply methods to evaluate counterfactuals that do not require sensitivity testing over specified classes of models. If an analysis fails the tests we offer, then we know that substantive results are sensitive to at least some modeling choices that are not based on empirical evidence. We use these methods to evaluate the extensive scholarly literatures on the effects of changes in the degree of democracy in a country (on any dependent variable) and separate analyses of the effects of UN peacebuilding efforts. We find evidence that many scholars are inadvertently drawing conclusions based more on modeling hypotheses than on evidence in the data. For some research questions, history contains insufficient information to be our guide. Free software that accompanies this paper implements all our suggestions.
Reading and Writing the Electronic Book

Developments over the last twenty years have fueled considerable speculation about the future of the book and of reading itself. This book begins with a brief historical overview the history of electronic books, including the social and technical forces that have shaped their development. The focus then shifts to reading and how we interact with what we read: basic issues such as legibility, annotation, and navigation are examined as aspects of reading that eBooks inherit from their print legacy. Because reading is fundamentally communicative, I also take a closer look at the sociality of reading: how we read in a group and how we share what we read. Studies of reading and eBook use are integrated throughout the book, but Chapter 5 "goes meta" to explore how a researcher might go about designing his or her own reading-related studies. No book about eBooks is complete without an explicit discussion of content preparation, i.e., how the electronic book is written. Hence, Chapter 6 delves into the underlying representation of eBooks and efforts to create and apply markup standards to them. This chapter also examines how print genres have made the journey to digital and how some emerging digital genres might be realized as eBooks. Finally, Chapter 7 discusses some beyond-the-book functionality: how can eBook platforms be transformed into portable personal libraries? In the end, my hope is that by the time the reader reaches the end of this book, he or she will feel equipped to perform the next set of studies, write the next set of articles, invent new eBook functionality, or simply engage in a heated argument with the stranger in seat 17C about the future of reading. Table of Contents: Preface / Figure Credits / Introduction / Reading / Interaction / Reading as a Social Activity / Studying Reading / Beyond the Book / References / Author Biography
Obake: interactions on a 2.5D elastic display

In this poster we present an interaction language for the manipulation of an elastic deformable 2.5D display. We discuss a range of gestures to interact and directly deform the surface. To demonstrate these affordances and the associated interactions, we present a scenario of a topographic data viewer using this prototype system.
Hierarchical design space exploration for a class of digital systems

This paper presents an architectural synthesis approach for a widely used class of digital systems characterized by inherent regularity in their description. This approach relies on a novel modeling or abstraction of the problem domain to facilitate a hierarchical solution method. The modeling is based on exploiting the inherent regularity in the system description to cluster its behavioral operations. The method emphasizes prudent postponement of design decisions until enough physical design information is available to estimate layout effects like wiring; we use well-known area-delay estimators for this purpose. The approach has the advantage that it keeps track of a set of potentially good candidate solutions, rather than narrowing down to a single solution very early in the design process. Through an extensive set of experiments on well-known DSP design examples, we demonstrate the advantages that such distinctive features have to offer; the impact of hierarchy on several important issues, such as interconnection area, extent of design space explored, etc., is presented. >
Management of Locoregional and Systemic Recurrence of Breast Cancer: To Stage or Not to Stage and How

The surveillance of breast cancer patients after potentially curative treatment may result in the identification of locoregional or distant recurrence. While many patients expect frequent imaging studies to monitor for recurrence, there are no data supporting aggressive imaging surveillance beyond mammography. However, when recurrent disease is suspected, it is appropriate to undertake re-staging to develop a rational management plan. The rationale and methods for appropriate surveillance and re-staging are discussed.
Probing the tilting mode in fission with γ-ray multiplicity techniques

Abstract The γ-ray multiplicities of the fragments from a number of 4 He-induced fission reactions have been measured as a function of fragment emission angle. The value of M γ is found to vary with angle in qualitative agreement with the predictions of statistical models of fission-fragment angular distributions. The observed variation is rather weak, on the order of 5%. The data are compared with several models. Calculations assuming a rigidly rotating, transition-state nucleus predict a much stronger angular dependence of the fragment spin than indicated by the data. The agreement is significantly improved if a fragment-spin enhancement effect is included in these calculations. The fragment spins are explored within the framework of the statistical scission model and the collective mode model. Both of these models predict large fragment spins and thus a relatively weak angular dependence of the total fragment spin. Neither model provides a completely satisfactory explanation of the data. Depending on the assumptions made in the calculations, the models either predict too strong an angular dependence of the total fragment spin or spins which seem incompatible with M γ .
The Altered Water System: Excess Levels of Free Radicals Contribute to Carcinogenesis by Altering Arginine Vasopressin Production and Secretion and Promoting Dysregulated Water Homeostasis in Concert with Other Factors

A large body of evidence accumulated during the last decade has revealed diverse roles of dysregulated water homeostasis in tumorigenesis. In particular, many tumors hypersecrete arginine vasopressin (AVP) causing hypoosmolar conditions associated with different cancers. Excess levels of free radicals and nonosmotic stimuli may act as signals in water homeostasis and induce the production and secretion of AVP. Hypoosmolar conditions cause alterations in the expression of many genes. Other alterations in hydration patterns may induce mutations and increase the levels of protein kinases to contribute to oncogenesis. Furthermore, AVP regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and angiogenesis, and its overproduction may contribute to tumor growth and metabolism. This review article describes a mechanism by which oxygen radical species and other free radicals act as signaling molecules that, in concert with increased AVP production and secretion, pleiotropically affect tumor growth and metabolism, resulting in dysregulated proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and genomic instability.
Quantification of visual capabilities using augmented reality displays

In order to be able to perceive and recognize objects or surface properties of objects, one must be able to resolve the features. These perceptual tasks can be difficult for both graphical representations and real objects in augmented reality (AR) displays. This paper presents the results of objective measurements and two user studies. The first evaluation explores visual acuity and contrast sensitivity; the second explores color perception. Both experiments test users' capabilities with their natural vision against their capabilities using commercially-available AR displays. The limited graphical resolution, reduced brightness, and uncontrollable visual context of the merged environment demonstrably reduce users' visual capabilities. The paper concludes by discussing the implications for display design and AR applications, as well as outlining possible extensions to the current studies.