cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Decay accelerating factor (CD55)-mediated attenuation of complement: therapeutic implications for age-related macular degeneration.

PURPOSE Sequence variations in complement proteins are associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The terminal pathway of complement results in the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) on the cell surface, resulting in their lysis. MAC has been documented on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), choroidal blood vessels, and drusen of AMD eyes. Here the investigators test the hypothesis that increasing the expression of decay accelerating factor (CD55) on RPE cells may result in reduced MAC-mediated damage. METHODS The investigators constructed a recombinant adenovirus expressing human CD55 (AdCAGCD55). Mouse hepatocytes were infected with AdCAGCD55 or negative controls and subsequently incubated with normal human serum (NHS). Cell lysis and MAC formation were measured by FACS and immunocytochemistry, respectively. Adult mice were injected in the subretinal space with either AdCAGCD55 or controls; after 1 week of CD55 transgene expression, the eyecups were excised, challenged with NHS, and quantified for human MAC formation. RESULTS Control-infected or uninfected mouse hepatocytes lyse at a rate of 93% and 94%, respectively. AdCAGCD55- infected mouse hepatocytes lyse at a rate of 29%. Lysis was confirmed to occur in the presence of MAC, which was reduced by 67% when cells were infected by AdCAGCD55. Mice injected in the subretinal space with AdCAGCD55 exhibited a 55.7% reduction in MAC formation on the RPE relative to controls. CONCLUSIONS Adenovirus-mediated delivery of hCD55 to murine RPE confers protection against human complement. The investigators propose that the expression of hCD55 on RPE cells warrants investigation as a potential therapy for AMD.
Optical dipole noise of two-level atoms.

Optical noise in two-level atoms is of fundamental interest as it limits the accuracy of atomic clocks and the amount of squeezing that can be obtained in atomic systems. It also contributes to momentum diffusion in laser cooling experiments. In this work, we measure phase-dependent optical noise spectra for the radiation emitted by long-lived coherently driven two-level atoms in an atomic beam. Bloch vector projection noise, spontaneous emission noise, and phase-dependent Poisson noise contribute to the measured noise spectra. The experiment is interpreted using a decay-free Bloch vector model.
Infrared multispectral target/background field measurements

Extensive measurements of targets and backgrounds were made in the field by an infrared Fourier transform spectrometer. These measurements were made to provide statistically valid estimates of target to background spectral contrast and background spatial and spectral statistics to support the use of multispectral sensing techniques for detecting military targets in clutter. The details of the spectrometer, the targets, the backgrounds, and the measurements are given.
Local Radiotherapy Rescues Responsiveness to Anti-CD137 Immunotherapy in a Mouse Model of Advanced Breast Cancer.

BACKGROUND: The benefits of immunotherapy are often hampered by immunosuppressive networks in the tumor microenvironment. Accumulating evidence indicates that local ionizing radiation (IR) can synergize with immunotherapy and improve tumor response.CD137/4-1BB is a co-stimulatory molecule expressed on activated T-cells that provides a survival signal to promote the expansion and differentiation of antigen-specific T-cells. Pre-clinical studies have shown the ability of agonistic anti-CD137 antibodies to enhance anti-tumor immunity. 4T1 is a poorly immunogenic experimental mouse model of metastatic breast cancer. 4T1 cells injected s.c. form a tumor and rapidly spread systemically giving rise to lung metastases that kill the animals. We have previously shown that IR as single modality can delay growth of the irradiated 4T1 s.c. tumors but not extend mice survival.METHODS: BALB/c mice were inoculated s.c. with 4T1 cells on day 0. Treatment with anti-CD137 mAb (200 mg, BMS-469492 from Bristol Myers Squibb) was started on day 7 or 15 and repeated every 3 days for two or three times. For radiotherapy mice were randomized into 4 groups receiving (1) no treatment, (2) IR alone, (3) anti-CD137 mAb and (4) IR+ anti-CD137 mAb. IR was delivered exclusively to the tumor in 2 fractions of 12 Gy at 24 hours interval starting on day 13. Mice were followed for tumor growth and survival.RESULTS: Administration of anti-CD137 mAb to 4T1 tumor-bearing mice starting at day 7 resulted in significant tumor growth delay which correlated with an 8-fold increase in the ratio of intratumural effector CD8 T cells (Teff) to regulatory T cells (Treg) at day 15. In contrast, when administration of anti-CD137 mAb was delayed until day 15 no anti-tumor effect was observed.The median survival of mice (39 days) was not increased by treatment with anti-CD137 mAb or IR used as single modalities (39 days). On the other hand, the combination of IR and anti-CD137 mAb increased survival to 49 days, although no complete tumor remission was observed.CONCLUSIONS:Overall, our studies indicate that with tumor progression mice became resistant to immunotherapy with single modality anti-CD137 mAb. However, a therapeutic effect was seen when anti-CD137 mAb was combined with local radiotherapy. We are currently investigating the mechanisms of resistance to anti-CD137 mAb treatment that develop with 4T1 tumor progression. Accumulation of Treg and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) within the tumors likely contribute to resistance to immunotherapy by creating a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment. Identification of these mechanisms will provide new therapeutic targets to improve the response to treatment. Importantly, data support the combination of local radiotherapy with immunotherapy in advanced breast cancer. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4134.
The radiation chemistry of methyl iodide in the gas phase

Abstract The 60 Co-gamma radiolysis of pure methyl iodide vapor at 300 torr (40 kN m −2 ) and 25°C has been studied. Major products found and their respective G-values are: I 2 , 0·16; HI, 0·13; H 2 , 0·55; CH 2 I 2 , 1·4; CH 4 , 2·9; C 2 H 2 , 0·12; C 2 H 4 , 0·065. Addition of I 2 as a radical scavenger reduced the initial G value for methane production to 1·4. The mechanism for production of CH 2 I 2 and molecular CH 4 was assumed to involve hot methyl radicals. Iodine scavenging did not alter G (H 2 ), G (CH 2 I 2 ), G (C 2 H 2 ) or G (C 2 H 4 ), indicating that molecular processes may account for as much as 70 per cent of all observed product formation. Ethane was found to be a minor product; the initial 100 eV yield of about 0·07 was reduced to 0·0055 by scavengers added initially or produced in the radiolysis. Use of HI as a radical scavenger resulted in a low initial G (C 2 H 2 ) which increased with dose to its value in pure CH 3 I. The C 2 H 4 yield was nearly twice that observed in the pure system. The rate of methane production showed an initial maximum of about 25 molecules/100 eV, and the G-value decreased to about 2·6 with a dose of 1 × 10 20 eV. A chain mechanism is proposed to account for the high CH 4 yields in the presence of excess HI, and some of the G (CH 4 ) observed in pure CH 3 I.
Tung based reactive diluents for alkyd systems: Film properties

Abstract Reactive diluents were prepared from tung oil via a Diels–Alder reaction with three different dienophiles: methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane (TOMAS), 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TOF) and triallyl ether acrylate (TOTAE). The reactive diluents were mixed with a long oil soya alkyd, a metal drier package, and a wetting agent; and then cured. Formulations were prepared as a function of reactive diluent type and wt%. Tensile, thermomechanical, and coatings properties were evaluated after curing the films. The addition of two reactive diluents, TOMAS and TOTAE, improved the tensile strength and tensile modulus of the alkyd. The addition of the diluents, however, did not significantly change the elongation at break compared to the alkyd in any of the systems. Also, the addition of TOMAS and TOTAE increased both the crosslink density and glass transition temperature of the alkyd. Basic film properties including hardness, solvent resistance, impact resistance, adhesion, and gloss were not adversely affected by the introduction of any of the tung oil based diluents.
Intraosseous infusion of phenytoin

In the critically ill child, administration of fluids and medications via the intraosseous route often proves life-saving. The authors describe the case of a child with status epilepticus in whom phenytoin was administered via the intraosseous route, and seizure resolution and therapeutic serum levels were achieved. Intraosseous drug administration should be reserved for the rare critically ill child in whom vascular access proves impossible.
The Appeal of Second Bananas: The Impact of Vice Presidential Candidates on Presidential Vote Choice, Yesterday and Today

To what extent do vice presidential candidates affect individual-level vote choice for president? The accepted wisdom is that vice presidential candidates are of minor importance to most voters. Yet much energy was spent discussing the potential impact of Biden and Palin as vice presidential candidates. Here, the impact that attitudes toward Palin and Biden had on vote choice in the 2008 election are compared with the role of vice presidential candidates historically. Although feelings about vice presidential candidates typically play little role in vote choice, there are exceptions. When vice presidential candidates draw media attention, feelings about them become much more important to vote choice. Whereas Biden represents the general rule of vice presidents garnering little media attention and having relatively little impact on vote choice, Palin_s candidacy drew an abnormally high level of media interest, and feelings about her exerted a stronger impact on vote choice, especially among Independent voters.
Oxyhalogen-sulfur chemistry: kinetics and mechanism of oxidation of N-acetylthiourea by chlorite and chlorine dioxide.

The oxidation reactions of N-acetylthiourea (ACTU) by chlorite and chlorine dioxide were studied in slightly acidic media. The ACTU−ClO2- reaction has a complex dependence on acid with acid catalysis in pH > 2 followed by acid retardation in higher acid conditions. In excess chlorite conditions the reaction is characterized by a very short induction period followed by a sudden and rapid formation of chlorine dioxide and sulfate. In some ratios of oxidant to reductant mixtures, oligo-oscillatory formation of chlorine dioxide is observed. The stoichiometry of the reaction is 2:1, with a complete desulfurization of the ACTU thiocarbamide to produce the corresponding urea product: 2ClO2- + CH3CONH(NH2)CS + H2O → CH3CONH(NH2)CO + SO42- + 2Cl- + 2H+ (A). The reaction of chlorine dioxide and ACTU is extremely rapid and autocatalytic. The stoichiometry of this reaction is 8ClO2(aq) + 5CH3CONH(NH2)CS + 9H2O → 5CH3CONH(NH2)CO + 5SO42- + 8Cl- + 18H+ (B). The ACTU−ClO2- reaction shows a much stronger HOCl autocataly...
Organizations for Statistical Consulting at Colleges and Universities

Abstract The importance of correct implementation of statistical methodology in a wide variety of research is widely acknowledged. Few universities, however, have given thought to providing a means of ensuring that their research efforts employ statistics in an appropriate manner. Specifically, many universities have not established any formal structure for the delivery of statistical consulting services. This article addresses this problem by discussing how the consultant, the consultee, and the institution fare under a number of different organizational structures. The conclusion reached is that a separately funded consulting center operated as a division of a department of statistics is the most appropriate way to provide statistical consulting and to ensure quality research, although at many universities alternate organizational structures are probably more feasible at this time.
Activation of Gorgodera amplicava cercariae by molluscan sera.

Abstract The sera of 5 species of freshwater molluscs, Viviparus maleatus, Helisoma trivolvis , H. anceps, Physa gyrina , and Musculium partumeium were found to activate the quiescent cystocercous cercariae of Gorgodera amplicava . When cercariae were exposed to the various sera, the distomate body proper became very active and generally succeeded in escaping from the cystic portion of the tail. The ability of the various sera to activate the cercarial body varied, with that of V. maleatus being the greatest followed by that of P. gyrina . The sera of H. trivolvis and H. anceps were less effective while that of M. partumeium had the least effect. The activating ability of the sera does not appear to be due to their pH. The activating influence of molluscan sera on the normally quiescent cercaria is believed to play an important role in the adaptation of this cercaria to the second intermediate host.
Geographies of Detention and Imprisonment: Interrogating Spatial Practices of Confinement, Discipline, Law, and State Power

This article surveys the state of emerging geographic research on detention, imprisonment, and confinement. Prisons and detention centers vary widely in location and form, but all hold human beings without consent by other human beings. We first survey geographical research on prisons and, second, on detention centers. We then argue that this geographic research offers three primary contributions to the study of imprisonment and detention. First, analyzing the spatial practices (the ordering of space and time) of these institutions provides a productive framework for understanding the materiality of social, cultural, and economic relationships. Second, this research provides an important perspective on state responses to the globalization of trade, migration, war, and security. Third, detention and imprisonment are productive sites for exclusionary discourses. In closing, we urge geographers to think deeply about how detention's indeterminacy works beyond the detention center, to be wary of implicit valorizations of imprisonment, and to take seriously the global expansion of the confinement industry.
Effect of the surface coverage of C18-bonded silica particles on the obstructive factor and intraparticle diffusion mechanism

The intraparticle obstructive factors of several endcapped C18C18-bonded silica particles with different C18C18 surface densities (0, 0.42, 1.01, 2.03, and 3.15μmol/m2) were measured. A column packed with the reference neat silica was also used. The stop and flow experiment technique was applied, with the injection of a pulse of 5μL of a dilute solution of thiourea, a nearly unretained compound. The contribution of radial diffusion was also determined by injecting a semi-infinite concentration plug into the column. Experimental results demonstrate that the stop and flow method provides accurate and precise values of the apparent diffusion coefficient DappDapp of the sample inside the column. Radial diffusion plays a negligible role compared to that of axial diffusion. A theoretical model of diffusion through the packed bed is proposed, based on the sum of parallel diffusion fluxes in the solutions contained in the external and the internal porosities of the bed, and onto the surface of the solid adsorbent. The agreement between the experimental values of the diffusion coefficient DappDapp and the values predicted by the model demonstrates that: (1) surface diffusion plays a major role in axial dispersion (30%), despite the small retention and isosteric heat of adsorption QstQst of thiourea, and (2) the intraparticle obstructive factor, γiγi, decreases significantly, from 0.82 to 0.56 from the neat silica particles to the C18C18-bonded silica particles with a 3.15μmol/m2 surface density.
Model selection, updating, and averaging for probabilistic fatigue damage prognosis

Abstract This paper presents a method for fatigue damage propagation model selection, updating, and averaging using reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations. Uncertainties from model choice, model parameter, and measurement are explicitly included using probabilistic modeling. Response measurement data are used to perform Bayesian updating to reduce the uncertainty of fatigue damage prognostics. All the variables of interest, including the Bayes factors for model selection, the posterior distributions of model parameters, and the averaged results of system responses are obtained by one reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. The overall procedure is demonstrated by a numerical example and a practical fatigue problem involving two fatigue crack growth models. Experimental data are used to validate the performance of the method.
Selectivity of Non-Thermal Atmospheric- Pressure Microsecond-Pulsed Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Induced Apoptosis in Tumor Cells over Healthy Cells

Non-thermal plasma is now being widely investigated for various clinical ap- plications ranging from surface sterilization to blood coagulation to wound healing to cancer therapy. We have shown previously that reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by non- thermal dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma in the medium surrounding the cells induce DNA damage in mammalian cells, and by tuning the dose, plasma has various effects, from enhancing proliferation to inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. 1-3 Although non-thermal plasma primarily produces ROS extracellularly, we hypothesize that it can induce apoptosis in ma- lignant cells similar to ionizing radiation or photodynamic therapy, which primarily produce ROS intracellularly. Unlike ionizing radiation, which damages healthy tissue surrounding the malignant tissue, 4,5 or photodynamic therapy, which causes scarring and burning of nearby healthy tissue, non-thermal plasma, due to its non-penetrating nature, may provide a safer means to induce selective apoptosis in malignant tissue by providing precise control of treat- ment area and depth.
Selective Ceftazidime Resistance in Escherichia coli: Association with Changes in Outer Membrane Protein

A strain of Escherichia coli (MG/32) was recovered from the blood of a patient who had received ceftazidime for eight weeks. The isolate was resistant to ceftazidime but susceptible to other third-generation cephalosporins. Alterations in outer membrane proteins were implicated in this selective ceftazidime resistance. As ceftazidime susceptibility was regained, the quantity of outer membrane proteins of 37,000 and 39,000 molecular weight increased. Although the isolate possessed a TEM-1 beta-lactamase, this enzyme was not involved in the selective resistance to ceftazidime; it did not disappear on reacquisition of ceftazidime susceptibility and did not hydrolyze the drug. Potassium clavulanate enhanced the activity of ceftazidime against E. coli strain MG/32, but this enhancement was due to a direct effect on outer membrane proteins and not to beta-lactamase inhibition.
Finite Strain, Anisotropic Modified Cam Clay Model with Plastic Spin. II: Application to Piezocone Test

Micromechanical and anisotropic behavior of soils is analyzed using the plastic spin and anisotropic modified Cam clay model (AMCCM) in an updated Lagrangian reference frame. The micromechanical behavior of soils is especially important in large strain problems. The anisotropic behavior inherently exists in soils. This study uses AMCCM with the plastic spin to evaluate the pore pressure response in cone penetration tests. This test is a typical example for large strain problems. The analytical results indicate that the predicted pore pressure is closer to the measured one when the plastic spin is incorporated in AMCCM. It also shows that the micromechanical behavior is paramount in the vicinity of the cone tip where large strains and rotations occur.
Examining Organizational Functioning Through the Lens of Complexity Theory Using System Dynamics Modeling

ABSTRACT The methodologies associated with complexity theory might serve as an adjunct to some of our more traditional behavioral social science research methods. While the latter has a well-established history in social work, the approaches related to complexity theory are just now gaining a foothold. One such approach is system dynamics modeling. This article will describe the application of system dynamics modeling to a well-known early intervention program. The manner in which it complements traditional research approaches will be discussed, and its unique contribution to understanding the organizational aspects of complexity theory will be highlighted.
Water Wave Interaction on a Truncated Vertical Cylinder

The purpose of this paper is to combine and extend existing potential flow theory in order to analyze the linear free surface problem of an oscillating water column (OWC) device and apply it to moon pool design. Analytical results were obtained implementing the previously derived theories, and later compared to experimental results conducted at the University of New Orleans Towing Tank. The model tests consisted of a study of a cylindrical OWC. The theoretical and experimental results of the free surface for the OWC tests agree for the resonant frequency estimation response but they disagree on the amplitude of the response.
Low power data processing by elimination of redundant computations

We suggest a new technique to reduce energy consumption in the processor datapath without sacrificing performance by exploiting operand value locality at run time. Data locality is one of the major characteristics of video streams as well as other commonly used applications. We use a cache-like scheme to store a selective history of computation results, and the resultant re-use leads to power savings. The cache is indexed by the operands. Based on our model, an 8 to 128 entry execution cache reduces power consumption by 20% to 60%.
Superposition in Infiltration Modeling

Simplified, physical models for calculating infiltration and ventilation in a single zone usually calculate the airflows from the two natural driving forces (i.e., wind and stack effects) separately, and then use a superposition rule to combine them. Similarly, superposition rules may be used to ascertain the effects of mechanical systems on infiltration. In this report a general superposition rule will be derived for combining wind, stack, and mechanical ventilation systems together. The superposition rule will be derived using general principles of leakage dismbution and airflow and will not depend on the details of a particular infiltration model. In the process of generating this rule, a quantity called leakage distribution angle is developed to quantify the separation of areas of the building envelope which are subject to infiltration and exfiltration. The general superposition rule is compared to other proposed superposition rules including those based on measured data, and the general rule is shown to have strong explanatory power Results are generated for typical buildings. The concept of fan addition efficency is developed to determine the effectiveness of unbalanced (mechanical) ventilation systems at augmenting infiltration.
Protac, a commercially available protein C activator from the venom of Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix, can activate factor V and factor VIII.

In most coagulationtestscurrentlyin use to screenfor activatedproteinC (APC) resistance,the effect of added exogenousAPC upon the clottingtime of a reactionmixtureis measured(l-6). However, screeningtests for abnormalfunctionof the protein C anticoagulantsystemhave also been describedin whichthe endogenousproteinC of a testplasmais activatedwith Protacbefore clottingis initiatedby the additionof czdcium(7-8).
Surface Motion Excited by Acoustic Emission From a Buried Crack

Etude des approximations de front d'onde pour les emissions acoustiques dues a la croissance brusque d'une fissure de traction dans un solide elastique illimite. Application de la transformation de Fourier a ces approximations pour obtenir la partie haute frequence de leurs spectres
Now you see me, now you don't: the interaction of Salmonella with innate immune receptors

Salmonella enterica serovars are associated with an estimated 1 million deaths annually and are also useful model organisms for investigating the mechanisms of host-bacterium interactions. The insights gained from studies on non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) serovars have provided a fascinating overview of the mechanisms by which the innate immune system detects and responds to bacterial pathogens. However, specific virulence factors and changes in virulence gene regulation in S. enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhi alter the innate immune responses to this pathogen. In this Review, we compare and contrast the interactions of S. Typhi and NTS serovars with host innate immune receptors and discuss why the disease manifestations associated with S. Typhi infection differ considerably from those associated with the closely related NTS serovars.
Application of nonlocal theory to electromagnetic dispersion

Abstract Nonlocal theory is a useful tool in treating phenomena whose origins lie in regimes smaller than the classical continuum limit. In this paper, the theory of nonlocal electrodynamics is utilized to model dispersion.
Y51K and Still Counting: Some Hindu Views of Time

AT THE BEGINNING of every religious ritual conducted in Hindu brahmanical modes, the officiating priest and those doing the ritual formally declare the co-ordinates of the land and the time in which the rite takes place. These words are part of the sankalpa or the declaration of intention to do the ritual. Such co-ordinates are in cosmic frameworks; the land is identified with one of the dvipas or islands in puranic cosmology and the timespan is given as a moment that occurs in a span of millions of years. The celebrant first announces the name of the kalpa (a span of 4320 million human years which is equal to one day in the life of the creator god Brahma) and then finetunes it to a shorter time period called the manavantara, a span of approximately 306,720,000 human years named after the primeval man called Vaivasvata. One then notes that this is first part of the kali yuga (this immediate cycle of 432,000 years). After these cosmic notations of time, the person who is about to do the ritual also notes the· calendrical details. The name of the year is mentioned (many Hindu
Extended Lagrangian particle-in-cell (ELPIC) code for inhomogeneous compressible flows

ELPIC, a macroparticle code for modeling complex nonstationary inhomogeneous compressible flows is described and demonstrated. It operates with Langrangian-type finite-sized rectangular particles with adjustable sizes. The dimensions of the particles smoothly adjust to peculiarities of the flow in order to minimize overlapping and gaps between the particles. The particles can divide in rarefaction waves to smoothly cover the simulated flow area. The particles carry mass, which is constant between divisions, and a number of chemical and thermodynamical properties of the substance they represent, including the index of the equation of state, chemical composition, mechanical properties, etc. The ELPIC approach combines the essential advantages of both Eulerian and Langrangian approaches, and overcomes the difficulties encountered by Nishiguchi and Yabe in their well-known code SOAP, based on conceptually similar principles.
A time for every purpose under heaven: Rhetorical dimensions of protest music

This paper examines the role of a specific rhetorical form, the protest song, in social movements. Relying on a content analysis of songs from the tabor movement and the anti‐war movement of the 1960s, the paper advances the argument that such songs are pre‐eminently in‐group messages designed to reinforce feelings of solidarity. As such, the songs are generally negative in their reaction to external circumstances, simplistic in their world view, and expressive rather than instrumental in their intention.
Materials and design development for bipolar/end plates in fuel cells

Abstract Bipolar/end plate is one of the most important and costliest components of the fuel cell stack and accounts to more than 80% of the total weight of the stack. In the present work, we focus on the development of alternative materials and design concepts for these plates. A prototype one-cell polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell stack made out of SS-316 bipolar/end plate was fabricated and assembled. The use of porous material in the gas flow-field of bipolar/end plates was proposed, and the performance of these was compared to the conventional channel type of design. Three different porous materials were investigated, viz. Ni–Cr metal foam (50 PPI), SS-316 metal foam (20 PPI), and the carbon cloth. It was seen that the performance of fuel cell with Ni–Cr metal foam was highest, and decreased in the order SS-316 metal foam, conventional multi-parallel flow-field channel design and carbon cloth. This trend was explained based on the effective permeability of the gas flow-field in the bipolar/end plates. The use of metal foams with low permeability values resulted in an increased pressure drop across the flow-field which enhanced the cell performance.
Some Thoughts on Lens Mounting

The mounting of lenses is a major consideration in the manufacture of lenses. The design of the mount, the material used and the manufacturing methods can all significantly affect the performance, cost and profit margin in lens making. Various methods of mounting will be described and some ideas for improvement will be presented. The suggested improvements are based on the observation that the optical shop is a hostile environment for precision instruments and machines. The grinding materials and liquids are ruinous to precision tools. The one process in lens making that is unique to lens making is the degree of concentration on polishing spherical surfaces. To optimize the manufacturing process one should consider reducing precision requirements as much as possible in all the steps except for the polishing. This thinking leads to looking at new methods of assembly which can be done in clean room conditions. Modern epoxy cements, inch worms, interferometers, and minicomputer control units can be used in assembly to short cut the need for precision lens shaping and tight mounting tolerances.
Delineation of the extracellular determinants of ultrasonic scattering from elastic arteries

Elastic arteries consist of three primary components: elastin fibers, extracellular collagen matrix and smooth muscle cells. However, the relative contribution of elastin and collagen fibers to overall ultrasonic scattering from an intact arterial wall is poorly understood. To define the principal source of extracellular scattering from the medial layer of elastic arteries, canine ascending aortas (n = 10) were excised, fixed and sectioned for insonification. Subsequently, aortic specimens were restudied after treatment to dissolve all tissue components except extracellular collagen matrix (n = 5) and elastin fibers (n = 5). Histological staining revealed very few elastin fibers and sparse intact collagen in collagen-isolated and elastin-isolated tissues, respectively. Integrated backscatter, attenuation and backscatter coefficients differentiated these two treated tissues. The backscatter coefficient for elastin-isolated tissue demonstrated a fivefold increase over collagen-isolated tissue, suggesting that elastin fibers represent a primary scattering component within elastic arteries, and the collagen fibers may provide a secondary component of scattering.
Progression and remission of pelvic organ prolapse: A longitudinal study of menopausal women

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the natural history of pelvic organ prolapse after menopause. Study design Over 2 to 8 years, participants in the estrogen plus progestin trial of the Women's Health Initiative at the University of California Davis had annual pelvic examinations, with an assessment of uterine prolapse, cystocele, and rectocele. The findings from these examinations were used to describe the incidence of pelvic organ prolapse, the probability of progression or regression, and the associated risk factors. Results At baseline, 31.8% of women had pelvic organ prolapse (n = 412 women). The annual incidences of cystocele, rectocele, and uterine prolapse were 9.3, 5.7, and 1.5 cases per 100 women-years, respectively. Incident prolapse was associated with increasing parity and waist circumference. The progression rates for grade 1 pelvic organ prolapse (per 100 women-years) were 9.5 for cystocele, 13.5 for rectocele, and 1.9 for uterine prolapse. The annual rates of regression (per 100 women-years) was 23.5, 22, and 48, respectively. Conclusion Our data suggest that pelvic organ prolapse is not always chronic and progressive as traditionally thought. Spontaneous regression is common, especially for grade 1 prolapse.
Determinacy implies that ℵ2 is supercompact

Assuming the axiom of determinacy, ℵ1 and ℵ2 areδ-supercompact, whereδ is a fairly large cardinal which will be defined below.
SOD2-Mediated Effects Induced by WR1065 and Low-Dose Ionizing Radiation on Micronucleus Formation in RKO Human Colon Carcinoma Cells

Abstract RKO36 cells exposed to either WR1065 or 10 cGy X rays show elevated SOD2 gene expression and SOD2 enzymatic activity. Cells challenged at this time with 2 Gy exhibit enhanced radiation resistance. This phenomenon has been identified as a delayed radioprotective effect or an adaptive response when induced by thiols or low-dose radiation, respectively. In this study we investigated the relative effectiveness of both WR1065 and low-dose radiation in reducing the incidence of radiation-induced micronucleus formation in binucleated RKO36 human colon carcinoma cells. The role of SOD2 in this process was assessed by measuring changes in enzymatic activity as a function of the inducing agent used, the level of protection afforded, and the inhibitory effects of short interfering RNA (SOD2 siRNA). Both WR1065 and 10 cGy X rays effectively induced a greater than threefold elevation in SOD2 activity 24 h after exposure. Cells irradiated at this time with 2 Gy exhibited a significant resistance to micronucleu...
Nanometer fabrication in mercury cadmium telluride by electron cyclotron resonance microwave plasma reactive ion etching

It has been recently reported (J.R. Meyer, F.J. Bartoli, C.A. Hoffman, and L.R. Ram-Mohan,Phys. Rev. Lett. 64, 1963 [1990]) that novel electronic and optical effects are anticipated in nanometer scale features of narrow band gap semiconductors such as mercury cadmium telluride (MCT). These efforts could lead to the creation of non-linear optical switches, high efficiency infrared lasers, and unique nanoelectronic devices. This work reports on the first realization of MCT nanostructures through the application of e-beam lithography and reactive ion etching with an electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) microwave plasma source. It is shown that the low energy ions produced by an ECR system can etch MCT with good selectivity over an e-beam resist mask and with high resolution. Using these fabrication methods, 40–70 nm features with aspect ratios of 3–5∶1 and sidewall angles greater than 88° have been demonstrated. Qualitative investigations of some of the etch mechanisms of this technique are made, and results suggest a desorption limited process.
Eigenvalues of singular differential operators by finite difference methods, II

Note is made of an earlier paper which defined finite difference operators for the Hilbert space L2(m), and gave the eigenvalues for these operators. The present work examines eigenvalues for higher order singular differential operators by using finite difference methods. The two self-adjoint operators investigated are defined by a particular value in the same Hilbert space, L2(m), and are strictly positive with compact inverses. A class of finite difference operators is considered, with the idea of application to the theory of Toeplitz matrices. The approximating operators consist of a good approximation plus a perturbing operator.
On the effects of confinement within a catalyst consisting of platinum embedded within nanoporous carbon for the hydrogenation of alkenes

Abstract In heterogeneous catalysis, pore size exerts an influence on reaction pathway, selectivity, equilibrium and adsorption constants. This effect can in principle cause noticeable changes in selectivity. Here, we present an analysis of a diffusion–reaction process in the pores of a catalyst comprised of platinum nanoparticles embedded within a molecular sieving carbon. When the alkenes are hydrogenated over this catalyst, the reaction takes place within the ultramicropores of the carbon. Experimental data for the liquid phase hydrogenation of different alkenes over platinum supported on the carbon versus platinum embedded within the same carbon were collected. From these data kinetic parameters and diffusion coefficients for reactions were evaluated. The forward rate constant for 2-methyl-1-pentene hydrogenation was found to be almost one order of magnitude larger within the embedded platinum catalyst versus the supported platinum catalyst. The variation in pore size and reactant molecule dimension, were also found to affect the adsorption equilibrium constants and diffusion coefficients. For 2-methyl-1-pentene molecule with the highest steric hindrance, K increased to 500 g/mol in embedded catalyst compared to 100 g/mol on supported catalyst. At the same time the diffusion coefficient for 2-methyl-1-pentene was one order of magnitude smaller than 1-hexene.
INTERRELATING NATURE, HUMANITY, AND THE WORK OF GOD: SOME ISSUES FOR FUTURE REFLECTION

. This essay suggests some future items for an agenda about human viability, defined as survivability with meaning and purpose, by exploring interrelations between nature, humanity, and the work of God. It argues for intrinsic and creative value in nature, so there is a value kinship, as well as a factual kinship, between humans, nature, and God-working. It considers humans as “webs of culture, life, and cosmos” and suggests some implications of this notion of human nature for viability. And it asks what human fulfillment can be in light of the awesome creative-destroying-recreative activity that seems to be the ground of an evolving universe.
Persuasive arguments theory: a test of assumptions

Persuasive Arguments Theory (PAT) is a noninteractionl theory of group decision making that predicts decision outcomes from the cognitive arguments individuals generate prior to discussion. PAT proponents do not view discussion as a crucial determinant of decision outcomes, but rather as one possible medium for information exchange. On this view, they assume members’ cognitive arguments correspond to arguments produced in discussion and group influence is a function of these stable structures produced outside interaction. As part of a larger research program undertaken to evaluate PAT, this article assesses PAT assumptions about argument and argument influence. Following a review and critique of PAT, five hypotheses are advanced to test its assumptions. Results revealed little correspondence between cognitive and discussion arguments in number, content, or persuasiveness. Additionally, PAT assumptions about argument influence were not supported. Implications for PAT and for the role of communication in group decision making are discussed.
Minorities and Direct Legislation: Evidence from California Ballot Proposition Elections

Critics argue that direct legislation (initiatives and referendums) allows an electoral majority to undermine the interests and rights of racial and ethnic minorities. We assess this claim by examining outcomes of direct democracy in California since 1978. Our analysis indicates that critics have overstated the detrimental effects of direct democracy. Confirming earlier critiques, we find that racial and ethnic minorities-and in particular Latinos-lose regularly on a small number of racially targeted propositions. However, these racially targeted propositions represent less than 5% of all ballot propositions. When we consider outcomes across all propositions, we find that the majority of Latino, Asian American, and African American voters were on the winning side of the vote. This remains true if we confine our analysis to propositions on which racial and ethnic minorities vote cohesively or to propositions on issues that racial and ethnic minorities say they care most about.
State-Transition Interpolation and MAP Adaptation for HMM-based Dysarthric Speech Recognition

This paper describes the results of our experiments in building speaker-adaptive recognizers for talkers with spastic dysarthria. We study two modifications -- (a) MAP adaptation of speaker-independent systems trained on normal speech and, (b) using a transition probability matrix that is a linear interpolation between fully ergodic and (exclusively) left-to-right structures, for both speaker-dependent and speaker-adapted systems. The experiments indicate that (1) for speaker-dependent systems, left-to-right HMMs have lower word error rate than transition-interpolated HMMs, (2) adapting all parameters other than transition probabilities results in the highest recognition accuracy compared to adapting any subset of these parameters or adapting all parameters including transition probabilities, (3) performing both transition-interpolation and adaptation gives higher word error rate than performing adaptation alone and, (4) dysarthria severity is not a sufficient indicator of the relative performance of speaker-dependent and speaker-adapted systems.
Accruals Management to Achieve Earnings Benchmarks: A Comparison of Pre-managed Profit and Loss Firms

This study examines whether firms with profits before accruals management are more likely than firms with losses before accruals management to meet or exceed earnings benchmarks when pre-managed earnings are below those benchmarks. We extend Brown (2001) by documenting that the differential propensity to achieve earnings benchmarks by profitable and nonprofitable firms results from differential accruals management behavior. We find that firms with profits before accruals management are more likely than firms with losses before accruals management to have pre-managed earnings below both analysts' forecasts and prior period earnings and reported earnings above these benchmarks.
A combinatorial approach to height sequences in finite partially ordered sets

Fix an element x of a finite partially ordered set P on n elements. Then let h"i(x) be the number of linear extensions of P in which x is in position i, counting from the bottom. The sequence {h"i(x):1@?i@?n} is the height sequence of x in P. In 1982, Stanley used the Alexandrov-Fenchel inequalities for mixed volumes to prove that this sequence is log-concave, i.e., h"i(x)h"i"+"2(x)@?h"i"+"1^2(x) for 1@?i@?n-2. However, Stanley's elegant proof does not seem to shed any light on the error term when the inequality is not tight; as a result, researchers have been unable to answer some challenging questions involving height sequences in posets. In this paper, we provide a purely combinatorial proof of two important special cases of Stanley's theorem by applying Daykin's inequality to an appropriately defined distributive lattice. As an end result, we prove a somewhat stronger result, one for which it may be possible to analyze the error terms when the log-concavity bound is not tight.
Administering cognitive-behavioral therapy for bulimia nervosa via telemedicine in rural settings.

Objective This report describes the therapy of 2 women with bulimia nervosa who were treated using cognitive-behavioral therapy delivered via telemedicine. Method The telecommunication link was established using a 128-Kbps ISDN switchable data line. Results Both cases were treated successfully and were doing well at 1-month follow-up. Discussion These cases illustrate that this methodology may make it possible to deliver manual-based psychotherapies to patients with eating disorders in remote areas. © 2001 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.. Int J Eat Disord 30: 454–457, 2001.
Gas Separation Performance of Carbon Molecular Sieve Membranes Based on 6FDA‐mPDA/DABA (3:2) Polyimide

6FDA-mPDA/DABA (3:2) polyimide was synthesized and characterized for uncross-linked, thermally crosslinked, and carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes. The membranes were characterized with thermogravimetric analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, and gas permeation tests. Variations in the d spacing, the formation of pore structures, and changes in the pore sizes of the CMS membranes were discussed in relation to pyrolysis protocols. The uncross-linked polymer membranes showed high CO2/CH4 selectivity, whereas thermally crosslinked membranes exhibited significantly improved CO2 permeability and excellent CO2 plasticization resistance. The CMS membranes showed even higher CO2 permeability and CO2/CH4 selectivity. An increase in the pyrolysis temperature resulted in CMS membranes with lower gas permeability but higher selectivity. The 550 °C pyrolyzed CMS membranes showed CO2 permeability as high as 14 750 Barrer with CO2/CH4 selectivity of approximately 52. Even 800 °C pyrolyzed CMS membranes still showed high CO2 permeability of 2610 Barrer with high CO2/CH4 selectivity of approximately 118. Both polymer membranes and the CMS membranes are very attractive in aggressive natural gas purification applications.
National pertussis surveillance in South Korea 1955–2011: epidemiological and clinical trends

Summary Background Although there has been substantial progress in controlling pertussis in South Korea, the reported number of pertussis case-patients has gradually been increasing during the last decade. To address this, we summarized the surveillance data on pertussis collected during the period 1955–2011. Detailed epidemiologic and clinical data were determined, primarily using data from recent years. Methods We analyzed data from the national surveillance system to describe the occurrence of pertussis. The annual numbers of reported pertussis case-patients were identified for the period 1955–2000. For 2001–2009, information including limited demographic characteristics and the date of onset of symptoms were identified. For 2010–2011, detailed epidemiologic and clinical information of reported pertussis case-patients were collected. Results During 1955–2011, the secular trend was characterized by a gradual decrease in the reported number of cases from 1955 to the late 1990s, then a recent increase starting in the early 2000s. In 2009, a large number of reported cases occurred in infants Conclusions During 2010–2011, a shift in age group was observed in pertussis case-patients: 33.8% were young infants
Costs and benefits of integrating biometrics with a navy tactical weapons system

We investigate the cost and benefit of integrating biometrics with existing Navy tactical weapons systems. The approach to this investigation is to select a system and biometric technology to work with, build a prototype application, and evaluate it with system users. The Advanced Tomahawk Weapons Control System (ATWCS) was selected for integration with the Bioscrypt MV1200 finger scan device. After working with ATWCS representatives to develop a concept of operations (CONOPS), the prototype software application was developed and integrated into the ATWCS standard application environment (SAE). This prototype has been evaluated and provides a proof-of-concept for biometrics within the tactical environment. By experimenting with an existing system, we can more accurately address the real costs and benefits of using biometric technology in this legacy environment.