cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isotope effects in aqueous systems. V. Partial molal enthalpies of solution of NaCl−H2O−D2O and related systems (5 to 75°C)1

Solvent isotope effects on differential heats of solution of NaCl in HOH and DOD have been measured between 0.01 and 4m and from 5 to 40°C. These data are supplemented by integral heats of solution measured at 0.465m and from 5 to 75°C, and with heats of dilution over the same temperature range. The integral heat measurements include studies on otheralkali halides (KCl, NaI, NaBr), and the dilution measurements include some data for KCl. In the NaCl studies, particular attention was paid to the low-concentration region. Values of the partial molal enthalpiesL1 adL2 are derived for solution in both isotopic waters, and new values for the isotope effect on the standard enthalpy of solution ΔL2s = (ΔH20)d←w as a function of temperature are reported. Comparisons are made with previous work where possible. In contrast to statements made by earlier authors, examination of the low-concentration data reveals a\(\surd \overline m\) dependence within experimental error.
Thyrotropin releasing hormone: development of inactivation system during maturation of the rat

Whereas thyrotropin releasing hormone is rapidly and extensively degraded by plasma of adult rats, no appreciable loss of biological or immunological activity is caused by plasma from rats 4 or 16 days old. The plasma of neonatal rats does not appear to contain an inhibitor of thyrotropin releasing hormone peptidase or a peptidase with altered substrate affinity. The development of an active peptidase in rat plasma suggests a physiological role for inactivation of thyrotropin releasing hormone.
Purification of component A of Rab geranylgeranyl transferase: possible identity with the choroideremia gene product.

Abstract Rab geranylgeranyl transferase (GG transferase) from rat brain contains two components, A and B. Component B comprises polypeptides of 60 and 38 kd. Here we report the purification of component A, a single 95 kd polypeptide. The holoenzyme attaches 3 H-geranylgeranyl to cysteines in two GTP-binding proteins, Rab3A and Rab1A. The reaction is abolished when both cysteines in the COOH-terminal CysCys sequence of Rab1A are mutated to serines. The mutant protein inhibits transfer of 3 H-geranylgeranyl to wildtype Rab1A and Rab3A, suggesting that the enzyme recognizes conserved sequences distinct from the COOH-terminus. Six peptides from rat component A show striking similarity to the product of the defective gene in choroideremia, an X-linked retinal degeneration disease. The choroideremia protein resembles Rab3A GDI, which binds Rab3A. We hypothesize that component A binds conserved sequences in Rab and that component B transfers geranylgeranyl. A defect in this reaction may cause choroideremia.
Affinity alkylation of human placental 3β-hydroxy-5-ene-steroid dehydrogenase and steroid 5→4-ene-isomerase by 2α-bromoacetoxyprogesterone : evidence for separate dehydrogenase and isomerase sites on one protein

We have copurified human placental 3β-hydroxy-5-ene-steroid dehydrogenase and steroid 5→4-ene-isomerase, which synthesize progesterone from pregnenolone and androstenedione from fetal dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, from microsomes as a homogeneous protein based on electrophoretic and NH2-terminal sequencing data. The affinity alkylator, 2α-bromoacetoxyprogesterone, simultaneously inactivates the pregnene and androstene dehydrogenase activities as well as the C21 and C19 isomerase activities in a time-dependent, irreversible manner following first order kinetics. At four concentrations (501−201 steroid/enzyme M ratios), the alkylator inactivates the dehydrogenase activity (t12= 1.5−3.7 min) 2-fold faster than the isomerase activity. Pregnenolone and dehydroepi- androsterone protect the dehydrogenase activity, while 5-pregnene-3,20-dione, progesterone, and androstenedione protect isomerase activity from inactivation. The protection studies and competitive kinetics of inhibition demonstrate that the affinity alkylator is active site-directed. Kitz and Wilson analyses show that 2α-bromoacetoxyprogesterone inactivates the dehydrogenase activity by a bimolecular mechanism (k′3 = 160.91/mol·s), while the alkylator inactivates isomerase by a unimolecular mechanism (Ki=0.14mM, k3 =0.013 s−1). Pregnenolone completely protects the dehydrogenase activity but does not slow the rate of isomerase inactivation by 2α-bromoacetoxyprogesterone at all. NADH completely protects both activities from inactivation by the alkylator, while NAD+ protects neither. From Dixon analysis, NADH competitively inhibits NAD+ reduction by dehydrogenase activity. Mixed cofactor studies show that isomerase binds NAD+ and NADH at a common site. Therefore, NADH must not protect either activity by simply binding at the cofactor site. We postulate that NADH binding as an allosteric activator of isomerase protects both the dehydrogenase and isomerase activities from affinity alkylation by inducing a conformational change in the enzyme protein. The human placental enzyme appears to express the pregnene and androstene dehydrogenase activities at one site and the C21 and C19 isomerase activities at a second site on the same protein.
Influence of microstructure on fatigue crack initiation in fully pearlitic steels

The effect of microstructure on the fatigue crack initiation of fully pearlitic steels was studied through independent variation of the prior austenite grain size, pearlite colony size, and the pearlite interlamellar spacing. Increasing yield strength (controlled by decreasing the pearlite interlamellar spacing) was seen to increase the smooth and notched-bar crack initiation endurance limit. Grain and colony size variations, at constant yield strength, were seen to exhibit no effect on crack initiation. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed smooth-bar cracks to have initiated at surface inclusions. The influence of the pearlite interlamellar spacing, reflecting a change in the effective slip length, and the differences between notched and smooth-bar fatigue specimens for studying the effects of microstructure on crack initiation are discussed.
Changing the Practice of Perioperative Cardioprotection

For the past decade or more, use of perioperative β-blockers was considered a safe and effective approach to reducing the risk of cardiac complications of surgery in a broad spectrum of patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. This initial sentiment was supported by a fairly small number of randomized trials studying a fairly small number of patients. In the past 5 years, however, evidence has been accumulating to suggest that β-blockers were, at the least, ineffective at reducing cardiac events, with the recent PeriOperative ISchemic Evaluation (POISE) study suggesting that the use of perioperative β-blockers produced net harm in surgical patients. The publication of POISE, therefore, should prompt a fairly substantial change in the approach to using β-blockers in the patient undergoing noncardiac surgery. After POISE, and until more evidence accumulates, the use of β-blockers should be limited primarily to those patients who are on them lifelong or who are on them already. After surgery, the drug should be titrated carefully according to the patient’s clinical situation and continued through discharge. Between 1996 and 2005, the practice of using β-blockers to prevent postoperative cardiac complications was adopted on the basis of a small number of randomized trials and reviews.1–4 Adoption was speedy because the potential benefit of perioperative β-blockers was large,5 with few attendant risks; rapid adoption was further bolstered because perioperative β-blockers were having the same effects in surgical patients that they had in other patients with coronary artery disease (eg, reducing the risk of death from coronary ischemia). By 2005, the majority of the evidence supporting perioperative β-blockade was derived from …
Salmon jumping: behavior, kinematics and optimal conditions, with possible implications for fish passageway design

Behavioral and kinematic properties and capacities of wild migratory salmonid fishes swimming upstream and jumping up waterfalls generally have played only minor roles in the design and construction of passageways intended to help these fishes get past dams and other human-made obstacles blocking their movements. This paper reports the results of an experimental study of relevant behavioral and kinematic properties of adult kokanee salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) jumping up waterfalls as they migrate upstream. We used a portable, adjustable apparatus to study in the field fish responding to artificial waterfalls under a range of flow conditions. We observed fish under conditions of varying water flow rates, pool depths, fall heights and fall angles. We analyzed digital video recordings of their behaviors. Kokanee salmon spontaneously jump up waterfalls within a relatively narrow range of conditions, including low flow speeds, near vertical angles and pool depth to fall height ratios near 1.0. Preferred values for each parameter are, to some extent, dependent on other parameters. In contrast to previous misconceptions, jumping behavior is initiated by running S-start accelerations from beneath the boils formed in the plunge pools below waterfalls, as opposed to C-start standing jumps from the surface. S-starts are immediately followed by burst swimming to the point of takeoff at the surface. These results can contribute to an improved basis for developing designs of fish passageways that may ultimately make them more effective and efficient.
Utilization of Rice Husk Ash as viscosity modifying agent in Self Compacting Concrete

Abstract Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) is defined by two primary properties: Deformability and Segregation resistance. Deformability or flowability is the ability of SCC to flow or deform under its own weight (with or without obstructions). Segregation resistance or stability is the ability to remain homogeneous while doing so. High range water reducing admixtures are utilized to develop sufficient deformability. At the same time, segregation resistance is ensured, which is accomplished either by introducing a chemical viscosity modifying admixture (VMA) or by increasing the amount of fines in the concrete. These viscosity modifying admixtures are very expensive and the main cause of increase in the cost of SCC. Therefore, for producing low cost SCC, it is prudent to look at the alternates to help reducing the SSC cost. This research is aimed at evaluating the usage of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as viscosity modifying agent in SCC, and to study the relative costs of the materials used in SCC. In this research, the main variables are the proportion of RHA, dosage of superplasticizer for flowability and water/binder ratio. The parameters kept constant are the amount of cement, water, fine and coarse aggregate contents. Test results substantiate the feasibility to develop low cost SCC using RHA. In the fresh state of concrete, the different mixes of concrete have slump flow in the range of 595–795 mm, L-box ratio ranging from 0 (stucked) to 1 and flow time ranging from 2.2 to 29.3 s. Out of nine mixes, four mixes were found to satisfy the requirements suggested by European federation of national trade associations representing producers and applicators of specialist building products (EFNARC) guide for making SCC. The compressive strengths developed by the SCC mixes with RHA were comparable to the control concrete. Cost analysis showed that the cost of ingredients of specific SCC mix is 42.47% less than that of control concrete.
Studies of the epidemiology and control of tomato stem rot caused by Didymella lycopersici

Pycnidiospores of Didymella lycopersici were capable of inducing stem lesions when used at concentrations as low as two spores per 15-μl droplet, provided the inoculum was placed on wounded tissue and the relative humidity maintained at more than 90%. At c. 75% RH, lesions were not produced even at high spore concentrations and with pre-inoculation stem wounding. Pycnidiospores remained viable when stored for 17 weeks in sterile water and 14 weeks in nutrient solution. Detailed examination of tomato stems with a single lesion indicated that, in some cases, the pathogen may be widely distributed as it was isolated at distances of up to 1000 mm above the lesion and 750 mm below. Experiments on the transmission of D. lycopersici using sciarid flies demonstrated that, although this may be possible, it is probably infrequent in occurrence. None of the fungicides tested for the control of stem lesions were better than the standard benomyl in Actipron, but benomyl in medical-grade liquid paraffin was as good.
Web-Enhanced and Face-to-Face Classroom Instructional Methods: Effects on Course Outcomes and Student Satisfaction

Web-enhanced courses are increasingly popular for providing rich learning experiences and greater flexibility in achieving course outcomes. As technology emerges as an adjunct to face-to-face teaching methodologies, nursing educators are compelled to determine to what extent students are able to meet course objectives when technology is used to enhance the classroom experience. Graduate nursing students enrolled in face-to-face and web-enhanced sections of a course were evaluated on technical ability, learning style, learning outcomes, and course satisfaction. There was no difference on technical ability and learning outcomes. Overall, students in the web-enhanced section were more satisfied with the course, and reported advantages such as greater flexibility in scheduling, less travel, and greater independence and self-pacing of content. The data suggest that web-enhanced courses can provide a valid alternative to more traditional face-to-face classroom formats, and may remove some of the barriers to pursuing advanced nursing degrees.
Getting CS undergraduates to communicate effectively

In the last decade or so, the ACM, the IEEE and other organizations have acknowledged that there is a problem with the way communication is taught in the Computer Science curriculum: the writing, speaking, and presentation skills students learn in the classroom do not match what is expected of them in the workplace. The proposed solution, adopted by many undergraduate colleges, was to add a technical communication course to the CS curriculum. This does not appear to be enough, as mainstream accreditation boards are still emphasizing the need for improvement of communication skills instruction in their recent reports and recommendations. For the last two years, we have experimented with a complementary transversal approach where many "traditional CS" courses in our program have added a communication component to their syllabus, while at the same time our technical communication course has been revamped to expose students to realistic practices as promoted by situated learning theory. The results, so far anecdotal, point to improved student performance and attitude across several communication dimensions, in particular writing and presentation. We plan to develop this experiment by spreading it across more classes and by starting to collect rigorous measurements of students' communication performance.
Lipid bilayer modules as determinants of K+ channel gating

The crystal structure of the sensorless pore module of a voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channel showed that lipids occupy a crevice between subunits. We asked if individual lipid monolayers of the bilayer embody independent modules linked to channel gating modulation. Functional studies using single channel current recordings of the sensorless pore module reconstituted in symmetric and asymmetric lipid bilayers allowed us to establish the deterministic role of lipid headgroup on gating. We discovered that individual monolayers with headgroups that coat the bilayer-aqueous interface with hydroxyls stabilize the channel open conformation. The hydroxyl need not be at a terminal position and the effect is not dependent on the presence of phosphate or net charge on the lipid headgroup. Asymmetric lipid bilayers allowed us to determine that phosphoglycerides with glycerol or inositol on the extracellular facing monolayer stabilize the open conformation of the channel. This indirect effect is attributed to a change in water structure at the membrane interface. By contrast, inclusion of the positively charged lysyl-dioleoyl-phosphatidylglycerol exclusively on the cytoplasmic facing monolayer of the bilayer increases drastically the probability of finding the channel open. Such modulation is mediated by a π-cation interaction between Phe-19 of the pore module and the lysyl moiety anchored to the phosphatidylglycerol headgroup. The new findings imply that the specific chemistry of the lipid headgroup and its selective location in either monolayer of the bilayer dictate the stability of the open conformation of a Kv pore module in the absence of voltage-sensing modules.
Over expression of endoglin in human prostate cancer suppresses cell detachment, migration and invasion.

The regulation of cell adhesion and motility in human prostate is not well understood. We have previously shown that the endoglin gene is differently expressed during changes in prostate cell adhesion. Endoglin is a transmembrane transforming growth factor β binding protein typically expressed by endothelial cells. In this report we demonstrate that endoglin over expression increases prostate cell attachment, while decreasing migration and invasion. Engineered decreases in endoglin expression have opposite effects. While endoglin exerted only relatively small effects upon cell adhesion, large effects upon cell migration and invasion were observed. Endoglin was shown to localize to focal adhesion plaques, consistent with its role in regulating cell adhesion and motility. Loss of endoglin expression in cancer, as compared to normal prostate, was seen in human prostate cell lines. Suppression of endoglin expression in a panel of normal human prostate cell lines led to cell detachment. Endoglin is identified as a regulator of cell adhesion, motility and invasion in human prostate. Loss of endoglin expression appears to be associated with prostate cancer progression, at least in vitro.
Learning the value of drugs--is rofecoxib a regulatory success story?

Recent revelations about the adverse cardiovascular effects of COX-2 inhibitors have generally been framed as a story of regulatory failure, in which the FDA has failed in its mission to protect th...
A Computational Study of Gas Molecule Transport in a Polymer/Nanoporous Layered Silicate Nanocomposite Membrane Material

Polymers containing nanoporous, high-aspect-ratio, inorganic layered materials are being investigated as candidates for overcoming the selectivity versus permeability trade-offs imposed by conventional polymeric membranes used in gas separations. We report the first computational investigation of the transport of gas molecules (in particular helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen) in a polydimethylsiloxane/porous layered silicate AMH-3 nanocomposite system as a function of its composition, and also study the effects of polymer−inorganic interactions on the polymer dynamics. The performance of the nanocomposite membrane material is found to be substantially enhanced over the polymeric material for certain separations involving the four molecules studied. The transport properties were found to be strongly influenced by the molecular sieving properties of the AMH-3 layer and the segmental mobility of the polymer in confinement between the inorganic layers. A comparison with the resistances-in-series model fo...
Sequential selectiok procedures based on confidence sequences for normal populations

In this paper confidence sequences are used to construct sequential procedures for selecting the population with the a common variance. These procedures are shown to provide substantial saving, particularly in the expected samplw sizes of the inferior populations,over various procedures in the literature. A new “indifference zone” formulation is given for the correct selection probability requirement, and confidence sequences are also applied to construct sequential procedures for this new selection goal.
A vascular catheterization simulator for training and treatment planning.

We have developed a working prototype of an augmented reality based vascular catheterization simulator. The simulator is called daVinci, and provides the interventional radiologist with a “hands-on,” user friendly, image based environment to augment training, enhance pretreatment planning and design interventional products and devices. daVinci is based on computational modeling of human anatomical images and provides the user with capabilities for realtime simulated navigation of catheters in both 2-D and 3-D modeled vessels. In addition, multiplaner CT, MRI and anatomical data sets are incorporated into the simulator to enhance the understanding of anatomical relationships associated with vascular catheterization procedures. The current prototype is designed for peripheral vascular applications. Additional systems are currently being considered for both interventional neuroradiology and cardiology.
Dynamics of the current system in the southern Drake Passage

Abstract It has long been seen from satellite ocean color data that strong zonal gradients of phytoplankton biomass persistently occur in the southern Drake Passage during austral summer and fall, where the low productivity Antarctic Surface Water (ASW) within the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) region transforms to the high productivity water. An interdisciplinary cruise was conducted in February and March 2004 to investigate potential physical and biogeochemical processes, which are responsible for transporting nutrients and metals and for enhancing primary production. To explore physical processes at both the meso- and large-scales, surface drifters, a shipboard Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler and conductivity–temperature–depth sensors were used. Analyzing meso- and large-scale hydrography, circulation and eddy activities, it is shown that the topographic rise of the Shackleton Transverse Ridge plays the key role in steering an ACC branch southward west of the ridge, forming an eastward ACC jet through the gap between the ridge and Elephant Island and causing the offshelf transport of shelf waters approximately 1.2 Sv from the shelf near Elephant Island. High mesoscale eddy activities associated with this ACC southern branch and shelf waters transported off the shelf were found. The mixing between the iron-poor warmer ASW of the ACC and iron-rich waters on the shelf through horizontal transport and vertical upwelling processes provides a physical process which could be responsible for the enhanced primary productivity in this region and the southern Scotia Sea.
Use of somatic mutations to quantify random contributions to mouse development

The C. elegans cell fate map, in which the lineage of its approximately 1000 cells is visibly charted beginning from the zygote, represents a developmental biology milestone. Nematode development is invariant from one specimen to the next, whereas in mammals, aspects of development are probabilistic, and development exhibits variation between even genetically identical individuals. Consequently, a single defined cell fate map applicable to all individuals cannot exist. To determine the extent to which patterns of cell lineage are conserved between different mice, we have employed the recently developed method of “phylogenetic fate mapping” to compare cell fate maps in siblings. In this approach, somatic mutations arising in individual cells are used to retrospectively deduce lineage relationships through phylogenetic and—as newly investigated here—related analytical approaches based on genetic distance. We have cataloged genomic mutations at an average of 110 mutation-prone polyguanine (polyG) tracts for about 100 cells clonally isolated from various corresponding tissues of each of two littermates of a hypermutable mouse strain. We find that during mouse development, muscle and fat arise from a mixed progenitor cell pool in the germ layer, but, contrastingly, vascular endothelium in brain derives from a smaller source of progenitor cells. Additionally, formation of tissue primordia is marked by establishment of left and right lateral compartments, with restricted cell migration between divisions. We quantitatively demonstrate that development represents a combination of stochastic and deterministic events, offering insight into how chance influences normal development and may give rise to birth defects.
Intracoronary irradiation: Dose response for the prevention of restenosis in swine

Purpose:Restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty represents, in part, a proliferative response of vascular smooth muscle at teh site of injury. We have previously shown that high-dose radiation (20 Gy), delivered via an intracoronary 192Ir source, causes focal medial fibrosis and markedly impairs the restenosis process after balloon angioplasty in swine. This study sought to delineate the dose-response characteristics of this effect. Methods and Materials: Forty juvenile swine underwent coronary angiography; a segment of the left coronary artery was chosen as a target for balloon injury. In 30 swine, a 2 cm ribbon of 192Ir was positioned at the target segment and 20, 15, or 10 Gy were delivered to the vessel wall (10 animals/dose). Subsequently, overdilatation balloon angioplasty was performed at the irradiated segment. In 10 control swine, overdilatation balloon angioplasty was performed without previous irradation. Thirty-eight animals survived until sacrifice at 30 ± 3 days. Histopathological analysis was performed by a pathologist in a blinded manner. The area of maximal luminal compromise within the target segment was analyzed via computer-assisted planimetry. Results: Neointimal area was decreased by 71.4% at 20 Gy and by 58.3% at 15 Gy compared with control animals (p < 0.05). A stimulatory effect on smooth muscle cell proliferation was noted at 10 Gy, with a 123% increase in neointimal area compared with controls (p < 0.05). Mean percent area stenosis was also reduced by 63% at 20 Gy and by 74.8% at 15 Gy compared with controls (p < 0.05 for both). Conclusions: Intracoronary irradiation prior to overstretch balloon angioplasty markedly reduces neointima formation: this effect is dose dependent, with evidence of a significant stimulatory effect at 10 Gy. The effective therapeutic dose range for the prevention of restenosis in this in this model begins at approximatley 15 Gy delivered to the vessel wall.
Lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin's disease.

Lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin’s disease (LPHD) is a rare type of B-cell lymphoma with unique pathologic and clinical features that distinguish it from other types of Hodgkin’s disease. Patients with LPHD tend to be younger males who present with indolent and asymptomatic lymphadenopathy limited to peripheral lymph nodes. The immunophenotype of the malignant lymphocytic and/or histiocytic cells (CD20+, CD15-, CD30-) forms the basis of the pathologic distinction from the subtypes of classical Hodgkin’s disease. Despite an excellent response to aggressive upfront combined-modality treatment, patients with LPHD tend to relapse continuously over decades. The benign nature of these relapses and the incidence of late treatment-related toxicity have raised questions about the need for an aggressive upfront approach. Recent insights into the molecular pathogenesis of LPHD and the development of novel targeted therapies promise to improve future treatment.
A Note on Laminar Shear Flow Over Impulsively Started Bodies

Prediction of the shear flow around bodies impulsively set into motion at a uniform velocity. Information is presented on the local wall shear stress, velocity distribution, steady flow times, and thermal response for wedge flows where local flow acceleration occurs. The essential features of the flow field are found to be describable by the approximate series expansion method of Goldstein and Rosenhead (1936). This method would appear to be useful in rapidly calculating the viscous drag on the forward face of various shaped bodies where local flow acceleration occurs.
Overview of transmission lines above 700 kV

This paper describes the transmission lines that have been built throughout the world to operate above 700 kV. The paper provides information on the system planning, the electrical design, the mechanical and tower design, and the operation and maintenance experience of lines built in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Brazil, Venezuela, Russia, Korea, India and Japan. Also briefly discussed is the research conducted around the world to develop systems to operate above 700 kV including the research conducted by EPRI at their high-voltage research facility in Lenox, Massachusetts
Characterization of Piezoelectric Response of PZT Nanofibers

This paper reports the characterization of piezoelectric response of the Lead Zirconate Titanate (PbZr52 Ti48 O3 ) PZT nanofibers by three-point bending test using dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). PZT nanofibers were fabricated by sol-gel electrospinning process. The diameters of the fiber obtained were from 50 to 150 nm. The fiber consists of nanocrystal grains with average grain size of 10 nm. Titanium strip was used as substrate to collect the nanofibers for the three-point bending test to demonstrate the piezoresponse. The output voltage from the nanofibers under 0.5% strain was 0.17±0.005V, which was recorded by Labview. These results have shown that PZT nanofibers have great potential for nano sensor and actuator applications.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Pulse-train measurement techniques: An RRAM test vehicle for in-depth physical understanding

An overview of the recent progress achieved by pulse-train measurements of HfO x RRAM is presented. The concept of switching abruptness is first discussed, followed by fine control of multi-level RRAM cells by the pulse-train scheme. Using pulse-train measurements as a test-vehicle, in-depth physical understandings are derived from different regimes of the RESET process.
Application-Layer Intrusion Detection in MANETs

Security has become important to mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) due mainly to their use for many mission and life-critical applications. However, the broadcast nature of inter-node communications and node mobility in MANETs make it very challenging to secure MANETs. Moreover, their constantly changing topology causes network node density and neighbor relationships to change dynamically. This paper presents an intrusion detection system (IDS) for MANETs at the application layer. The IDS utilizes (1) both anomaly and misuse detection schemes to identify attacks in MANETs and (2) mobile agents (MAs) to augment each node's intrusion-detection capability. In particular, each node is equipped with a local IDS, and MAs will be dispatched periodically or on-demand to augment each node's IDS. We present the design of this IDS and the overall network structure, as well as the methods for authenticating and dispatching MAs. We also evaluate the trade-offs between different design parameters of MAs.
Nyquist's problem&#8212;The joint optimization of transmitter and receiver in pulse amplitude modulation

Using a criterion of minimum mean square interference, the optimum, linear, generally unrealizable receiver for a noisy pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) system is specified for the case in which a finite number of identically shaped pulses with random, possibly correlated amplitudes are transmitted. The interference is composed of both noise and intersymbol interference. The optimum receiver, using the same criterion, is also obtained for the case in which the intersymbol interference is constrained to be zero. The average error probabilities associated with these receivers are compared with each other and with a matched filter receiver in one example. In addition, formulas for optimum transmitted pulse shapes are derived, and the joint optimization of transmitter and receiver is carried out in detail for the case of signaling through a noisy RC filter. Other formulas enable one to explore the dependence of the minimum mean square interference on the data rate, the noise spectrum, the impulse response of the transmission medium, and the autocorrelation of the message sequence.
Erfahrungen mit MELLAPAK® in der Destillation von Fettsäuren und ihren Derivaten

Bei der Rektifikation und Fraktionierung von Fettsauren und ihren Derivaten hat sich die MELLAPAK® von Sulzer dank ihrer guten Trennleistung und dem geringen Druckverlust sehr bewahrt. Als wesentliche Vorteile erweisen sich dabei das tiefe Temperaturniveau der Kolonne, die hohere Reinheit der Produkte, die bessere Ausbeute sowie die farblich einwandfreie Qualitat. Der geringere Energiebedarf, verglichen mit den heute ublichen Kolonnen, macht es interessant, nicht nur neue Kolonnen mit der MELLAPAK® auszurusten, sondern auch bestehende Anlagen umzubauen. Mit solchen Umbauten erreicht man zudem einen hoheren Durchsatz und eine grosere Flexibilitat der Anlage. Konkrete Moglichkeiten werden anhand von ausgewahlten Beispielen erlautert. Experiences, Made with MELLAPAK®, in Distillation of Fatty Acids and their Derivates MELLAPAK® of Sulzer has proved true, owing to its separation performance and low pressure loss, in rectification and fractionation of fatty acids and their derivates. Essential advantages are the deep temperature level of the column, the higher purity of the products, the better yield and the unobjectionable quality of colours. The lower energy demand, compared with the columns used today, arouses the interest not only of equipping new columns with MELLAPAK®, but also of rebuilding already existing plants. Beyond a higher throughput and an increased flexibility of the plant is obtained by these rebuildings. Concrete possibilities are explained by selected examples.
The interplanetary magnetic field structure

The seasonal bias in the sector structure of the interplanetary magnetic field has led to the suggestion that the field in each hemisphere of the solar cavity has the same polarity as the average magnetic field at the corresponding solar pole, and that the surface which separates the two polarity regions is only slightly warped. In this scheme the observed sector structure results from corotation of the warped surface past the earth with the angular velocity of the sun. This picture of the interplanetary field structure provides a simple explanation for the solar magnetic cycle periodicity of the diurnal variation of energetic cosmic rays. A discrepancy between the large latitudinal extent of the photospheric sector structure and the apparently small extent of the interplanetary sector structure places constraints on models of the origin of the solar wind. The discrepancy can be resolved if the solar wind originates high in the solar atmosphere where the geometry of the interplanetary field is simplified by magnetic stresses, or if coronal holes produce a large portion of the solar wind.
Using ontologies linked with geometric models to reason about penetrating injuries

Objective: Medical assessment of penetrating injuries is a difficult and knowledge-intensive task, and rapid determination of the extent of internal injuries is vital for triage and for determining the appropriate treatment. Physical examination and computed tomographic (CT) imaging data must be combined with detailed anatomic, physiologic, and biomechanical knowledge to assess the injured subject. We are developing a methodology to automate reasoning about penetrating injuries using canonical knowledge combined with specific subject image data. Methods and material: In our approach, we build a three-dimensional geometric model of a subject from segmented images. We link regions in this model to entities in two knowledge sources: (1) a comprehensive ontology of anatomy containing organ identities, adjacencies, and other information useful for anatomic reasoning and (2) an ontology of regional perfusion containing formal definitions of arterial anatomy and corresponding regions of perfusion. We created computer reasoning services (''problem solvers'') that use the ontologies to evaluate the geometric model of the subject and deduce the consequences of penetrating injuries. Results: We developed and tested our methods using data from the Visible Human. Our problem solvers can determine the organs that are injured given particular trajectories of projectiles, whether vital structures - such as a coronary artery - are injured, and they can predict the propagation of injury ensuing after vital structures are injured. Conclusion: We have demonstrated the capability of using ontologies with medical images to support computer reasoning about injury based on those images. Our methodology demonstrates an approach to creating intelligent computer applications that reason with image data, and it may have value in helping practitioners in the assessment of penetrating injury.
Rationale for Blood Conservation

ABSTRACT Background: Exposure of patients to allogeneic blood transfusion can be minimized or avoided by the systematic use of multiple blood conservation techniques. Current use of these technologies is variable. Methods: Review of pertinent English language literature. Results: Enthusiasm for preoperative autologous blood donation (PAD) has declined considerably, perhaps due to increased cost and inconvenience to patients. Acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) has several practical advantages over PAD, but has not become generally accepted as a blood conservation strategy. Erythropoietin, iron, and artificial oxygen carriers are pharmacologic alternatives. Conclusions: Pharmacologic stimulation of erythropoiesis offers substantial potential to progress toward a goal of bloodless medicine. The potential of artificial blood substitutes is still being defined.
Factors affecting diurnal stem contraction in young Douglas-fir

Diurnal fluctuation in a tree's stem diameter is a function of daily growth and of the tree's water balance, as water is temporarily stored in the relatively elastic outer cambial and phloem tissues. On a very productive site in southwestern Washington, U.S.A., we used recording dendrometers to monitor stem diameter fluctuations of Douglas-fir at plantation ages 7 and 8 and related the fluctuations to environmental variables measured on-site. Growing-season diurnal stem contraction (DSC) averaged 0.21% of stem diameter, while dormant-season DSC averaged 0.03% of stem diameter. Maximum daily stem diameter generally occurred between 7:00 and 9:00 Pacific Standard Time (PST) and minimum stem diameter occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 PST. Diurnal stem contraction during the growing season was predicted by a model that included vapor pressure deficit and solar radiation (adjusted R2 = 0.84). A similar model predicted DSC during the dormant season with an adjusted R2 = 0.26. Soil water availability was high, and soil water content was not correlated with DSC. On four of the coldest winter days (mean daytime air temperature <0 °C), large decreases in stem diameter were observed. Recording dendrometers, used for continuous diameter measurements throughout the growing season, have the potential to provide important information not only on tree growth but also on a tree's water balance.
Is Charismatic Leadership Effective When Workers Are Pressured To Be Good Citizens

ABSTRACTPrior research has explored how employees’ perceptions of their leaders impact their work attitudes and behaviors. Studies have shown that charismatic leaders motivate individuals to be more engaged and to exhibit more organizational citizenship behaviors. This study considers how a moderator, citizenship pressure, affects how charismatic leaders might inspire their followers to go above and beyond and be more engaged in their work. Using a sample of 243 workers, this study's findings show that charismatic leadership has a stronger positive effect on job engagement when employees perceive less citizenship pressure. Citizenship pressure did not moderate the relationship between charismatic leadership and organizational citizenship behavior. Implications of this study include an examination of the moderating influence of citizenship pressure, a relatively new construct. Practically, the implications may shed some light on leadership factors that encourage increased effort from employees and greater ...
Detection of circulating cancer cells expressing uroplakins and epidermal growth factor receptor in bladder cancer patients.

Our purpose was to determine the clinical relevance of the detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) expressing urothelial and epithelial markers in bladder cancer patients. Sixty-two patients who presented to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center between July 2000 and September 2001 were studied. Peripheral blood was tested by nested RT-PCR assay for uroplakins (UPs) Ia, Ib, II and III as well as for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We determined the sensitivity and specificity of each individual marker and the combinations of UPIa/UPII and UPIb/UPIII. The latter strategy was based on our data, which showed that UPIa and UPIb form heterodimers with UPII and UPIII, respectively. Forty patients had clinically advanced bladder cancer and 22 had no evidence of disease at the time of assay. Eight of the 22 patients recurred during the follow-up period. All 8 patients were positive at presentation for UPIa/UPII. The combination of UPIa/UPII provided the best sensitivity (75%) of detecting CTCs, with a specificity of 50%. The combination of UPIb/UPIII was the most specific (79%) but had modest sensitivity (31%). Detection of EGFR-positive cells alone and in combination with UPs was inferior to that for UPIa/UPII. Combinations of urothelial markers are superior to single urothelial or epithelial markers in detecting CTCs in bladder cancer patients. Further efforts are under way to confirm the potential predictive value of these markers in a prospectively designed study of a larger cohort of patients. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Realization of full state feedback via delayed output feedback

This paper presents a delay-based output feedback control method, which, through placement of the zeros of the overall loop transfer function, is capable of realizing any full state feedback control algorithm with arbitrarily small errors. A systematic way for designing the delayed feedback controller is provided. Compared to full state feedback controls, LTR output feedback controls, the delayed output feedback is less sensitive to high frequency noises as it has much lower high-frequency gain. Also, the closed-loop bandwidth with the delayed output feedback can be much wider than that with full state feedback. A case study shows the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Quality of Life and Psychological Status of Patients With Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators

• BACKGROUND Implantable cardioverter defibrillators reduce mortality in patients at high risk for sudden cardiac death and in patients with heart failure. Patients with defibrillators often experience psychological distress and poor quality of life, which can potentiate pathological processes that increase the risk for sudden cardiac death. To achieve the full benefits of the defibrillators, patients must maintain their psychological status and quality of life. • OBJECTIVES To review the research on psychological status and quality of life of patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators and suggest nursing interventions to improve the patients’ health. • METHOD Searches of PubMed were used to find articles on depression, anxiety, and quality of life in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators. • RESULTS Poor quality of life is associated with anxiety and depression in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Discharges of the devices have adverse consequences for patients’ psychological status and quality of life. Younger patients are at highest risk for psychological distress and poor quality of life after implantation. Longitudinal research would facilitate determining the course of the changes in psychological status and quality of life during the time patients have the defibrillators. More intensive intervention may be necessary for the most vulnerable recipients: patients who are young, have experienced shocks, and are in psychological distress. • CONCLUSIONS Poor quality of life and depression are common in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Nursing interventions to reduce psychological distress and improve quality of life may reduce morbidity and mortality in these patients. Additional research is needed to determine effective interventions. (American Journal of Critical Care. 2006;15:389-398)
Effectiveness of a Computer-Assisted Intervention for Young Children with Attention and Reading Problems

Children who are significantly inattentive and poor early readers require intervention, and traditional tutoring approaches may not be effective with this group. Using a single-subject, multiple-baseline-across-participants design, Study 1 examines whether a computer-assisted reading intervention increases performance for three first-grade children with teacher-rated inattention and early reading problems. Study 2 replicates this intervention using three second-grade students. The independent variable was an evidence-based computer-assisted intervention (Earobics). Dependent variables were oral reading fluency, phoneme segmentation, and attention-to-task. Results provide evidence of reading gains, suggesting moderate size effects. For all, attention-to-task was higher during the computer-assisted intervention than during small-group reading instruction. Implications for practice and future research are discussed. The use of computer-assisted interventions for children who are inattentive and poor early re...
Mermithid nematodes found in adult Anopheles from southeastern Senegal

Background Over two dozen mermithid nematodes have been described parasitizing mosquitoes worldwide, however, only two species were found in Africa. Mermithid nematodes kill their mosquito host upon emergence, which suggests that they could be developed as biological control agents of mosquitoes. Both Romanomermis culicivorax and Romanomermis iyengari have been reared for mass release to control numerous Anopheles species vector populations, and in one instance this may have led to reduced malaria prevalence in a human population.
Quantum-dot cellular automata devices and architectures

We discuss novel nanoelectronic architecture paradigms based on cells composed of coupled quantum-dots. These ideas of a transistor-less approach represent a radical departure from conventional technology. We utilize a strategy which exploits the physical interactions between quantum-dots arranged in suitably designed cellular arrays. Boolean logic functions may be implemented in specific arrays of cells representing binary information, the so-called Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata (QCA). Cells may also be viewed as carrying analog information and we outline a network-theoretic description of such Quantum-Dot Nonlinear Networks (Q–CNN). In addition, we discuss possible realizations of these structures in a variety of semiconductor systems (including GaAs/AlGaAs, Si/SiGe, and Si/SiO2), rings of metallic tunnel junctions, and candidates for molecular implementations.
Anxiety in mice following acute aspartame and ethanol exposure

The purpose of the present study was to look at the effect of aspartame on the anxiolytic actions of ethanol. Previous research has shown that ethanol reliably produces an anxiolytic effect on rodent's plus-maze performance. There have been anecdotal reports that aspartame increases anxiety. CD-1 male mice were given i.p. aspartame doses of vehicle, 1000, or 2000 mg/kg, followed 30 min later by i.p. ethanol doses of 1.6 g/kg or vehicle. Animals were then placed in an open field, then tested in the plus-maze. Results determined that the aspartame condition had no significant effect on anxiety-related behavior, nor did it alter the anxiolytic actions of ethanol. Thus, acute high dose exposure to aspartame does not appear to affect anxiety-related behaviors.