cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The sociomateriality of education policy

By drawing on sociomaterial approaches to education, this paper presents a case study on the creation, development and consolidation of the education zone, a new policy space in South Italy. The topological reading of the case study reveals the complex reassemblage of humans and non-humans in the enactment of the education zones, and its multiple enactments as regions, networks and fluids.
Copper(I) alkyls. Synthesis and characterization of tertiary phosphine adducts and the crystal structure of the dimethylcuprate complex [Cu(PMe3)4][CuMe2]

L'alkylation de l'acetate de cuivre II avec des reactifs de dialkylmagnesium (MgMe 2 , Mg(CH 2 SiMe 3 ) 2 ) fournit des complexes du cuivre du type paire ions ou neutres: [Cu(PMe 3 ) 4 ][CuMe 2 ], CuMe(PMePh 2 ) 3 , Cu(CH 2 SiMe 3 )(PMePh 2 ) 3 , [Cu(PMe 2 Ph) 4 ][Cu(CH 2 SiMe 3 ) 2 ]. La structure cristalline de Cu(PMe 3 ) 4 [CuMe 2 ] est effectuee
Afar Mantle Plume: Rare Earth Evidence

Rare earth pattern zonation about the Afar Triangle, in tholeiitic basalts erupting along the Red Sea Trough and the Gulf of Aden, suggests the presence of a primordial mantle plume rising beneath the Afar and overflowing in a star-like fashion into the soft asthenosphere.
Lipid peroxidation as the mechanism of modification of the affinity of the Na+, K+-ATPase active sites for ATP, K+, Na+, and strophanthidin in vitro

The effect of lipid peroxidation on the affinity of specific active sites of Na+, K+-ATPase for ATP (substrate), K+ and Na+ (activators), and strophanthidin (a specific inhibitor) was investigated. Brain cell membranes were peroxidized in vitro in the presence of 100μM ascorbate and 25μM FeCl2 at 37°C for time intervals from 0–20 min. The level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and the activity of Na+, K+-ATPase were determined. The enzyme activity decreased by 80% in the first min. from 42.0±3.8 to 8.8±0.9 μmol Pi/mg protein/hr and remained unchanged thereafter. Lipid peroxidation products increased to a steady state level from 0.2±0.1 to 16.5 ±1.5 nmol malonaldehyde/mg protein by 3 min. In peroxidized membranes, the affinity for ATP and strophanthidin was increased (two and seven fold, respectively), whereas affinity for K+ and Na+ was decreased (to one tenth and one seventh of control values, respectively). Changes in the affinity of active sites will affect the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation mechanisms of Na+, K+-ATPase reaction. The increased affinity for ATP favors the phosphorylation of the enzyme at low ATP concentrations whereas, the decreased affinity for K+ will not favor the dephosphorylation of the enzyme-P complex resulting in unavailability of energy for transmembrane transport processes. The results demonstrate that lipid peroxidation alters Na+, K+-ATPase function by modification at specific active sites in a selective manner, rather than through a non-specific destructive process.
Energy supply and demand implications of CO2

Abstract It may become necessary to try to limit the concentration of atmospheric CO 2 . Consideration of temperature rise as a surrogate for the ensemble of possible adverse effects of increased CO 2 suggests a concentration limit in the range of 1.5–2.5 times the present concentration (~ 338 ppmv in 1980). Although the lower limit, even in the absence of restrictions on fossil fuel use, would probably not be reached for 50 years, that limit may nevertheless prove difficult to avoid because of long lead times required for major changes in energy demand and supply. The higher limit is not presently restrictive. In either case, intensive development of non-fossil energy sources appears warranted and improved efficiency of energy use will provide more time to make the transition.
Lessons learned from counting molecules: how to lure CENP-A into the kinetochore

Chromosome segregation requires the assembly of a multi-protein complex at the centromere, known as the kinetochore, along with re-organization of the cytoskeleton from an anastomosing microtubule network into a highly polarized bipolar spindle. Electron microscopy of chemically preserved
RNA-protein interactions in a Nus a-containing Escherichia coli transcription complex paused at an RNA hairpin

We have isolated Escherichia coli transcription complexes, paused in the presence and absence of Nus A, which contain RNA substituted at every UMP residue with a photocrosslinking nucleotide analog. The pause site is immediately downstream from an RNA stem-loop structure, and although pausing occurs in the absence of Nus A, it is substantially enhanced in the presence of Nus A. We have analyzed the secondary structure of this RNA and show that the analog does not interfere with the formation of the normal stem-loop structures. Additionally, the analog substrate does not alter transcriptional pausing, in the presence or absence of Nus A, indicating that Nus A recognition of the transcription complex is not affected by the presence of the crosslinking groups in the RNA. Ribonuclease digestion of the RNA in paused complexes identifies two accessible regions, two nucleotides in the loop and one near the base of the upstream side of the stem-loop. Cleavage at one loop nucleotide is enhanced by Nus A, while the nucleotide near the base of the stem-loop is partially protected. Upon irradiation of the transcription complex, Nus A is not photoaffinity labeled by the RNA, even at a high molar ratio to RNA polymerase (250: 1). Both the β and β′ subunits are labeled, however, indicating that the putative stem-loop binding domain on the core polymerase involves both subunits. Because the nucleotide protected from ribonuclease by Nus A is very near two analogs, yet Nus A is not crosslinked to the RNA, it is unlikely that Nus A could be protecting this position through direct contact. Furthermore, analog is substituted at positions in both the loop and at several positions in the stem, and again, no crosslinking to Nus A is observed. We conclude that enhancement of pausing by Nus A probably does not require direct interaction with the bases in the RNA stem-loop.
Role of Self-Absorption in Hg+Tl Sensitized Fluorescence Experiments

When a Hg+Tl gas mixture is excited by Hg 2537-\AA{} resonance radiation, microscopic energy-transfer processes occur which are manifested by the appearance of Tl emission lines. At constant thallium gas density, Swanson and McFarland have determined the intensity ratio ($R$) of the Tl 3776-\AA{} line to the Tl 5350-\AA{} line as the mercury density is varied. The functional form of the dependence of $R$ on mercury density has been successfully interpreted in terms of the self-absorption theory of Holstein. Specifically, the Tl 3776-\AA{} line is strongly self-absorbed at low Hg densities. As the Hg density increases, Hg-Tl collisions occur more frequently and the Tl 3776-\AA{} absorption line broadens, thus allowing more 3776-\AA{} radiation to escape. In this region, $R$ varies as the square root of the mercury density. At still higher mercury densities, the Tl 3776-\AA{} radiation readily escapes, and $R$ becomes a weak function of mercury density and finally levels off to a constant value. Similar considerations apply to the intensity ratio of the thallium 2580-\AA{} and 3230-\AA{} lines. These results constitute a semiquantitative verification of Holstein's self-absorption theory for the case where the shape of the absorption line is determined by impact broadening. In particular, this is the first experimental verification of Holstein's theory for the case of foreign-gas broadening and one may consider this as a new experimental technique for investigating self-absorption phenomena.
A Life History Model of the Alcoholic Family

Research and clinical interest in the alcoholic family has tended to outpace the development of family-oriented conceptual models of alcoholism. A family development perspective has been almost totally absent, despite the chronic, longitudinal nature of alcoholism. A life history model is proposed that uses the concepts of the “alcoholic system,” family homeostasis, and the “family alcohol phase” as its building blocks. Chronic alcoholism tends to produce distortions in the normative family life cycle. These distortions and their clinical implications are discussed, using four case histories as illustrations of the concepts proposed. The model is also examined in the light of current research findings about the alcoholic family.
Comparison of the novel antipsychotic ziprasidone with clozapine and olanzapine: inhibition of dorsal raphe cell firing and the role of 5-HT1A receptor activation.

Ziprasidone is a novel antipsychotic agent which binds with high affinity to 5-HT1A receptors (Ki = 3.4 nM), in addition to 5-HT1D, 5-HT2, and D2 sites. While it is an antagonist at these latter receptors, ziprasidone behaves as a 5-HT1A agonist in vitro in adenylate cyclase measurements. The goal of the present study was to examine the 5-HT1A properties of ziprasidone in vivo using as a marker of central 5-HT1A activity the inhibition of firing of serotonin-containing neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus. In anesthetized rats, ziprasidone dose-dependently slowed raphe unit activity (ED50 = 300 micrograms/kg i.v.) as did the atypical antipsychotics clozapine (ED50 = 250 micrograms/kg i.v.) and olanzapine (ED50 = 1000 micrograms/kg i.v.). Pretreatment with the 5-HT1A antagonist WAY-100,635 (10 micrograms/kg i.v.) prevented the ziprasidone-induced inhibition; the same dose of WAY-100,635 had little effect on the inhibition produced by clozapine and olanzapine. Because all three agents also bind to alpha 1 receptors, antagonists of which inhibit serotonin neuronal firing, this aspect of their pharmacology was assessed with desipramine (DMI), a NE re-uptake blocker previously shown to reverse the effects of alpha 1 antagonists on raphe unit activity. DMI (5 mg/kg i.v.) failed to reverse the inhibitory effect of ziprasidone but produced nearly complete reversal of that of clozapine and olanzapine. These profiles suggest a mechanism of action for each agent, 5-HT1A agonism for ziprasidone and alpha 1 antagonism for clozapine and olanzapine. The 5-HT1A agonist activity reported here clearly distinguishes ziprasidone from currently available antipsychotic agents and suggests that this property may play a significant role in its pharmacologic actions.
AN AUTOENCODER FOR CLINICAL AND REGULATORY DATA PROCESSING

A computer-driven terminology processing system, referred to as an “autoencoder,” is being developed at Merck Research Laboratories to aid in the management of clinical and regulatory data. The components of the autoencoder are: a large dictionary of clinical and therapy terms, a learning database to provide feedback, a thesaurus or word-substitution file, a modified Soundex algorithm, and an outcome report with a level of confidence indicator. The autoencoder operates in conjunction with the dictionary system to conduct comparisons of selected terms taken from input documents against dictionary terms. Algorithms evaluate these comparisons and assist users of the system in selecting dictionary terms to encode input documents. The use of the autoencoder to process clinical trial data and adverse experience reports is described and experience in autoencoding is discussed.
A phase I trial of sorafenib combined with cisplatin/etoposide or carboplatin/pemetrexed in refractory solid tumor patients

Introduction: Sorafenib has demonstrated single agent activity in non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Carboplatin/pemetrexed (CbP) and cisplatin/etoposide (PE) are commonly used in the treatment of these diseases. Methods: A phase I trial escalating doses of sorafenib in combination with fixed doses of PE (Arm A) or CbP (Arm B) was performed using a 3-patient cohort design to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicities (DLT); DLT were assessed in the first cycle. The trial was subsequently amended with closure of Arm B and to include Arm C with a reduced dose of carboplatin.
Athabaskan Phonetics and Phonology

There is a long tradition of phonetic and phonological research on Athabaskan languages, some synchronic in focus, some diachronic. A variety of theoretical approaches have been employed. An understanding of the morphology is required for research in virtually any other subfield of Athabaskan linguistics, including phonetics and phonology. Most research on Athabaskan languages has been undertaken by nonnative speakers of Athabaskan languages. Instrumental phonetic studies are now available for a variety of phenomena in the languages of this family.
The effect of crustal anisotropy on reflector depth and velocity determination from wide-angle seismic data: a synthetic example based on South Island, New Zealand

When deriving velocity models by forward modelling or inverting travel time arrivals from seismic refraction data, a heterogeneous but isotropic earth is usually assumed. In regions where the earth is not isotropic at the scale at which it is being sampled, the assumption of isotropy can lead to significant errors in the velocities determined for the crust and the depths calculated to reflecting boundaries. Laboratory velocity measurements on rocks collected from the Haast Schist terrane of South Island, New Zealand, show significant (up to 20%) compressional (P) wave velocity anisotropy. Field data collected parallel and perpendicular to the foliation of the Haast Schist exhibit as much as 11% P-wave velocity anisotropy. We demonstrate, using finite-difference full-wavefield modelling, the types of errors and problems that might be encountered if isotropic methods are used to create velocity models from data collected in anisotropic regions. These reflector depth errors could be as much as 10– 15% for a 10-km thick layer with significant (20%) P-wave velocity anisotropy. The implications for South Island, New Zealand, where the problem is compounded by extreme orientations of highly anisotropic rocks (foliation which varies from horizontal to near vertical), are considered. Finally, we discuss how the presence of a significant subsurface anisotropic body might manifest itself in wide-angle reflection/refraction and passive seismic datasets, and suggest ways in which such datasets may be used to determine the presence and extent of such anisotropic bodies. D 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Biome depletion in conjunction with evolutionary mismatches could play a role in the etiology of neurofibromatosis 1

Abstract Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) arises de novo in a striking 30–50% of cases, pointing toward an environmental etiology, though none has been clearly identified. The Biome Depletion Theory posits that the absence of mutualistic and commensal organisms within the human body coupled with modern lifestyle alterations may have profoundly deleterious effects, inclusive of immunologic derangement that is thought to result in allergy, atopy, and numerous autoimmune diseases. Biome depletion has been implicated as a factor in the etiology of both multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorders; biome reconstitution, i.e. replenishment of the biome with certain keynote species, is being used in the treatment of these and other autoimmune states. Neurofibromatosis 1 has been associated with allergy, various autoimmune states, multiple sclerosis, and autism. Recent research has posited that NF1, multiple sclerosis and autism may all arise from disturbances in the neural crest during gestation. This paper hypothesizes that there is indirect evidence that a highly inflammatory uterine state may precipitate epigenetic changes in vulnerable NF-related genes in the course of fetal development. The etiology of NF1 may lie in the absence of immunomodulation by commensal and mutualistic species once ubiquitously present in the environment, as well as through adoption of a modern lifestyle that contributes to chronic inflammation. Replenishment of helminths and other missing organisms to the human biome prior to conception as well as addressing nutritional status, psychological stress, and environmental exposures may prevent the development of NF1. ©Donna L. Beales.
Contesting the Victim Card: Closure Discourse and Emotion in Death Penalty Rhetoric

Closure for crime victims' families has become an important cultural narrative in the past two decades. This paper furthers our understanding of motivational framing and emotional resonance by illustrating how death penalty advocates use emotion-domain expansion to tap into the popular concept of “closure.” By arguing that the death penalty can bring closure and healing to crime victims' families, advocates expand their emotional appeal. Abolitionists have also embraced closure and argue that other options are preferable for victims' families. Implications of this process include shifts in death penalty rhetoric, new feeling rules, emotive dissonance, and the institutionalization of closure.
The Vital Heat, the Inborn Pneuma and the Aether

A short section of Aristotle's de generatione animalium embodies his final answer to the question how the faculties of soul are transmitted from parent to offspring. Aristotle here speaks in a tone which is dogmatic as well as enthusiastic; he is able to announce a new discovery. There is, he sets forth, in the sperma a peculiar substance (σῶμα) which has some connection with soul and differs in quality as the souls themselves differ in worth. This substance is identical with two of the entities mentioned in our title and ‘analogous’ to the third.Πάσης μὲν οὖν ψυχῆς δύναμις ἑτέρου σώματος ἔοικe κeκοινωνηκέναι καὶ θeιοτέρου τῶν καλουμένων στοιχeίων ὡς δὲ διαφέρουσι τιμιότητι αἱ ψυχαὶ καὶ ἀλλήλων, οὕτω καὶ ἡ τοιαύτη διαφέρeι φύσις. πάντων μὲν γὰρ ἐν τῷ σπέρματι ὑπάρχeι ὅπeρ ποιeῖ γόνιμα eἶναι τὰ σπέρματα, τό καλούμeνον θeρμόν. τοῦτο δ᾿ οὐ πῦρ πὐδὲ τοιαύτη δύναμίς ἐστιν, ἀλλὰ τὸ ἐμπeριλαμβανόμeνον ἐν τῷ σπέρματι καὶ ἐν τῷ ἀφρώδeι πνeῦμα καὶ ἡ ἐν τῷ πνeύματι φύσις, ἀνάλογον οὖσα τῶν ἄστρων στοιeίῳ.The sentences which follow state that fire has no generative or procreative power, yet such a power must be present in the Sun and in the θeρμόν, the vital heat of living beings. Clearly, then, this θeρμόν cannot be identical with the fire.Nowhere else in the body of his preserved work does Aristotle establish this close connection between the vital heat, the pneuma, and the element of the stars, the so-called aether. These three concepts differ as much in their origin and past history as in their function and place within Aristotle's own physical or biological system. A brief sketch of them—skipping by necessity many significant episodes in the history of each—will suffice to make this clear.What needs here to be said about the ‘element of the stars’ is indeed not much. It was Aristotle himself who added this element to the canonic four of the Empedoclean and Platonic tradition. The dialogue On Philosophy and the First Book On the Heaven secured it its place. It is divine, un-ageing, and unchanging, and yet a material element. Like the other elements it has its specific ‘natural motion’, to wit the circular, which makes it possible for Aristotle to explain by a physical ‘hypothesis’ the celestial motions for which Plato had resorted to the World-Soul. The place of this element is the entire heavenly region, extending from the First Heaven to the moon; below this, in the regions occupied by the four other elements, it is never to be found.
Physical Activity and Social Network Contacts in Community Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract Maintaining social network contacts is an important and challenging factor in successful aging. This study examines how physical activity level is associated with network contacts in an interview survey of 6,596 adults 60 and over. The number of telephone calls, family gatherings, and visits with neighbors were used to measure social contacts. Physical activity was operationalized by the frequency and intensity of the five most common activities in the past month. Regression results demonstrated that gardening, walking, and biking were positively associated with all three measures of social contacts, even after controlling for sociodemographic, health and ADL factors. These findings suggest that social network contacts may be positively influenced by participation in physical activity. Reducing barriers to physical activity may be an appropriate strategy for promoting social network contacts in older individuals.
Anterior segment dysgenesis and the developmental glaucomas are complex traits

Glaucoma refers to a heterogeneous group of disorders that involve retinal ganglion cell death, optic nerve damage, and loss of visual field. Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide, affecting an estimated 67 million people. Elevated intraocular pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma. Individuals with malformations of structures of the anterior segment of the eye frequently develop elevated intraocular pressure and glaucoma. In this review, we focus on the developmental glaucomas, the subset of glaucomas associated with anterior segment dysgenesis. To minimize overlap with other reviews in this issue and elsewhere, we highlight the complex, multifactorial nature of these diseases and recent advances using mice.
A major prolactin-binding complex on human milk fat globule membranes contains cyclophilins A and B: the complex is not the prolactin receptor

Prolactin (PRL) in milk influences maturation of gastrointestinal epithelium and development of both the hypothalamo-pituitary and immune systems of offspring. Here, we demonstrate that most PRL in human milk is part of a novel, high-affinity, multicomponent binding complex found on the milk fat globule membrane and not in whey. To examine properties of the complex, a sensitive ELISA was developed such that human PRL (hPRL) binding to the complex was measured by loss of hPRL detectability; thus, as much as 50 ng of hPRL was undetectable in the presence of 10 μl of human milk. Using the same methodology, no comparable complex formation was observed with human serum or amniotic fluid. hPRL complexation in milk was rapid, time dependent, and cooperative. Antibodies to or competitors of the hPRL receptor (placental lactogen and growth hormone) showed the hPRL receptor was not involved in the complex. However, hPRL complexation was antagonized by cyclosporine A and anti-cyclophilins. The complex was very stable, resisting dissociation in SDS, urea, and dithiothreitol. Western analysis revealed an ∼75-kDa complex that included hPRL, cyclophilins A and B, and a 16-kDa cyclophilin A. Compared with noncomplexed hPRL, complexed hPRL in whole milk showed similar activation of STAT5 but markedly delayed activation of ERK. Alteration of signaling suggests that complex formation may alter hPRL biological activity. This is the first report of a unique, multicomponent, high-capacity milk fat reservoir of hPRL; all other analyses of milk PRL have utilized defatted milk.
Roadmap to continental rupture: Is obliquity the route to success?

Continental rift systems progress to plate rupture and seafloor spreading, or fail. The separation of Africa and South America is no exception: ruptured Mesozoic rift systems define their irregular coastlines, with basins overlying thinned crust of failed rift sectors. Heine and Brune (2014, p. 211
Loudness and acoustic parameters of popular children's toys

Abstract Objective This project was conducted to evaluate the loudness and acoustic parameters of toys designed for children. In addition, we investigated whether occluding the toys’ speaker with tape would result in a significant loudness reduction; thereby potentially reducing the risk of noise induced hearing loss. Methods Twenty-six toys were selected after an initial screening at two national retailers. Noise amplitudes at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 kHz were measured using a digital sound level meter at a distance of 0 and 30 cm. The toys’ speakers were then occluded using adhesive tape and the same acoustic parameters were re-measured. Results Mean maximum noise amplitude of the toys at 0 cm and 30 cm was 104 dB A (range, 97–125 dB A) and 76 dB A (range, 67–86 dB A), respectively. Mean maximum noise amplitude after occlusion at 0 cm and 30 cm distances was 88 dB A (range, 73–110 dB A) and 66 dB A (range, 55–82 dB A), respectively, with a p-value Conclusions Proper use of the loudest toys at a distant of 30 cm between the speaker and the child's ear will likely not pose a risk of noise-induced hearing loss. However, since most toys are used at closer distances, use of adhesive tape is recommended as an effective modification to decrease the risk of hearing loss.
Residual-based a posteriori error estimator for the mixed finite element approximation of the biharmonic equation

A reliable and efficient residual-based a posteriori error estimator is derived for the Ciarlet-Raviart mixed finite element method for the biharmonic equation on polygonal domains. The performance of the estimator is illustrated by numerical experiments. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2011
Infrared telescope to orbit in '80's

Infrared (IR) detectors flown in earth-orbiting spacecraft are mostly aimed at the earth for the evaluation of agriculture, resource, military, and numerous other worldwide surveys. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) also has a major program in IR astronomy to examine the thermal emission of celestial and planetary objects. For the IR astronomy studies it is necessary to locate sensors beyond the influences of the atmosphere, and thus, according to a recent report (Indust. R&D, Sept. 1982), NASA plans to build a highly sophisticated IR telescope that could become operational in the next few years. With cryogenically cooled apparatus, it should be possible to obtain IR data on many more IR sources in space than are known now. The infrared spectra will be free of the water absorption bands characteristic of the earth's atmosphere. The proposed IR telescope will be named the Shuttle Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) and is planned to follow the NASA Space Shuttle Optical Space Telescope, which is to be placed into earth orbit in the mid-1980's.
Drug- and Chemical-Induced Aseptic Meningitis: A Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE:The primary objective of this article is to provide readers with case reports of drug- or chemical-induced aseptic meningitis (DCAM) described in the medical literature. Background information regarding the classification of DCAM, incidence, proposed mechanisms, associated risk factors, clinical management, and sequelae is presented.DATA SOURCES:A MEDLINE search was used to identify pertinent background literature and case reports of DCAM.DATA EXTRACTION:All case reports of DCAM involve anecdotal information. A critical analysis of a causal relationship to the implicated drug or chemical and the appearance of meningeal involvement is presented. Animal data are included when pertinent.DATA SYNTHESIS:DCAM is a rare adverse event associated with numerous agents. Patients present with a variety of clinical signs and symptoms and laboratory findings of cerebral spinal fluid, when obtained, vary greatly. Most patients fully recover without sequelae.CONCLUSIONS:Numerous drugs and chemicals have been im...
A modeling-based classification algorithm validated with simulated data

We present a Generalized Lotka-Volterra (GLV) based approach for modeling and simulation of supervised inductive learning, and construction of an efficient classification algorithm. The GLV equations, typically used to explain the biological world, are employed to simulate the process of inductive learning. In addition, the modeling approach provides a key advantage over the more conventional constraint and optimization-based classification algorithms, as influences of outliers and local patterns, which can lead to problematic overfitting, are auto-moderated by the model itself. We present the bare-bones algorithm and motivate the model through axiomatic postulates. The algorithm is validated using benchmark simulated datasets, showing results competitive with other cutting-edge algorithms.
115-W Tm:YAG diode-pumped solid-state laser

A compact diode-pumped Tm:YAG laser capable of generating greater than 100 W of CW power at 2 /spl mu/m has been demonstrated. A scalable diode end-pumping architecture is used in which 805-nm radiation, coupled to the wing of the Tm/sup 3+3/H/sub 6/-/sup 3/H/sub 4/ absorption feature, is delivered to the end of the laser rod via a lens duct. To facilitate thermal management, undoped YAG end caps are diffusion bonded to the central doped portion of the laser rod. For 2% and 4% Tm-doped rods of the same length, the lower doping level results in higher power, indicating that cross relaxation is still efficient while offering lower thermal stress and reduced absorption at the laser wavelength. Output powers for various output coupler reflectivities are compared to the predictions of a quasi-three-level model. Thermal lensing, cavity stability, and stress-induced birefringence measurements are described. The beam quality was analyzed with the 2% Tm-doped rod and a flat output coupler, yielding M/sup 2/ values of 14-23.
Aluminium and heavy metal toxicity and resistance — Lessons to be learnt from similarities and differences

Plants have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to tolerate toxic levels of metals in the soil. In this presentation, an overview is presented of recent progress in our understanding of the fundamental molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying plant resistance to both aluminium (Al) and heavy metals. The discussion of plant Al resistance will focus on recent advances in our understanding of a mechanism based on Al exclusion from the root apex, which is facilitated by Al-activated exudation of organic acids. The consideration of heavy metal tolerance will deal with molecular and physiological investigations of interesting metal hyperaccumulating plant species, with a focus on the Zn/Cd hyperaccumulator, Thlaspi caerulescens.
The effect of direct interchange reactions on the MWD of condensation polymers

In this theoretical study, a relationship has been developed for the transient molecular-weight distribution (MWD) of a condensation polymer undergoing a direct interchange reaction. Direct interchange is one of several reactions which can take place in condensation polymers in the melt. When compared to the more well-known reactions of polycondensation, degradation, and interchange of an end-group with a condensation linkage, direct interchange has a more complex statistical effect on the MWD and is less commonly observed. However, these types of reactions can be quite important in some polymeric systems, such as in the reaction of poly (butylene terephthalate) with polycarbonate. The MWD relationship was developed from the species balance: The rate of accumulation of chains of a given molecular weight is equal to their rate of generation minus their rate of consumption. For this reaction, development of the generation term is quite complex; it is approached here by describing five probability situations which are determined by each possible combination of reactant and product chains. Example distributions computed from these equations show that different transient paths are followed under direct and end-group interchange, but that both reactions lead to the equilibrium most-probable distribution.
Characterizations of r -potent matrices

A matrix A is said to be tripotent whenever A 3 = A . The study of tripotent matrices is of statistical interest since if the n × 1 real random vector X follows an N (0, I ) distribution and A is a symmetric matrix then the real quadratic form X′AX is distributed as the difference of two independently distributed X 2 variates if and only if A 3 = A . In fact, a necessary and sufficient condition that A is tripotent is that there exist two idempotent matrices B and C such that A = B – C , and BC = 0. Using properties of diagonalizable matrices, we will prove several algebraic characterizations of r -potent matrices that extend the known results for tripotent matrices. Our first result will be to obtain an analogous decomposition for an arbitrary r -potent matrix.
Mediastinal Sarcoidosis Presenting as Ventilation- Perfusion Mismatch*

Sarcoidosis is a disease of unknown etiology which is characterized pathologically by widespread noncaseating granulomas involving multiple organ systems. We report a case of sarcoidosis presenting as a ventilation-perfusion mismatch on a lung scan.
The Molecular Systematics of Rhododendron (Ericaceae): A Phylogeny Based Upon RPB2 Gene Sequences

Classification of Rhododendron species based on morphology has led to a consensus taxonomy recognizing the major subgenera Azaleastrum, Hymenanthes, Pentanthera, Rhododendron, Tsutsusi, and three minor ones. To determine whether these subgenera are monophyletic and to infer phylogenetic relationships between Rhododendron sections and species, we carried out a cladistic analysis using molecular data, including all groups within the genus. For this purpose, we sequenced a large part of the nuclear gene RPB2-I, encoding a major RNA Polymerase II subunit, from 87 species and analyzed the data by maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian methods. The resulting phylogenies show subgenera Azaleastrum and Pentanthera to be polyphyletic and group all Rhododendron species (except the two in section Therorhodion) into three large clades. Based upon these results, modifications in Rhododendron classification are proposed, which consolidate minor subgenera and recognize monophyletic subgenera and sections.
Inhibition of Proto-Oncogene c-Src Tyrosine Kinase: Toward a New Antiarrhythmic Strategy?∗

Cellular-Src (c-Src) encodes a plasma membrane–associated tyrosine protein kinase, which plays a vital role in signaling pathways related to cellular development and carcinogenesis [(1,2)][1]. It was the first proto-oncogene to be described and is the cellular homologue in humans of the viral
The Story of Re-engineering 350,000 Lines of FORTRAN Code

Abstract This paper describes a case study to determine whether computer-aided prototyping techniques provide a cost-effective means for re-engineering legacy software. The case study consists of developing a high-level modular architecture for the existing US Army Janus combat simulation system, and validating the architecture via an executable prototype using the Computer Aided Prototyping System (CAPS), a research tool developed at the Naval Postgraduate School. The case study showed that prototyping can be a valuable aid in re-engineering of legacy systems, particularly in cases where radical changes to system conceptualization and software structure are needed. The CAPS system enabled us to do this with a minimal amount of coding effort.
Effects of visual and auditory knowledge of results and reward on vigilance performance.

Summary.-The effects of several procedures for providing knowledge of results (KR) and monetary reward on performance of a visual vigilance task were investigated. 72 Ss monitored a simulated CRT for 3 hr. The independent variables were visual KR versus no visual KR, auditory KR versus no auditory KR, and performance-contingent monetary reward versus noncontingent monetary reward. Probability of detection was significantly higher for the knowledge of results conditions and for performance-contingent reward than for the respective control conditions. The most effective treatment combination was visual knowledge of results combined with performance-contingent reward. A vigilance task is one which requires the detection of changes in a stimulus during long monitoring periods when S has little or no prior knowledge of the sequence of changes. In general, Es have found chat performance deteriorates during a monitoring session, especially during the firsc 30 min. Toward the end of a session a slight recovery may occur (McGrath, Harabedian, & Buckner, 1959). Es have attempted to improve vigilance performance by manipulating characteristics of the signal, such as density, regularity, duration, intensity, and conspicuity and by present:ng artificial signals in addition to true signals (Buckner & McGrath, 1963; Loeb & Alluisi, 1970; Mackworch, 1970). Although positive results have been reported, in general they are of limited practical value because most display variables cannot be manipulated outside of the laboratory. Artificial signals, however, can be presented in many real life monitoring situations and a measure of their detection obtained. This suggests an alternative and more practical approach to improving performance-providing monitors with knowledge of results (KR) about detection of artificial signals. Such knowledge could have a number of desirable effects: providing information about performance, reinforcing correct behavior, increasing arousal or stimulation, producing ego involvement in the task, and increasing motivation. Mackworrh ( 1950), Baker ( 1959), and McCormadc ( 1959) have reported that KR affects vigilance performance. The present research was designed to assess the effects of several procedures for providing KR and monetary reward on performance of a visual vigilance task.
Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacogenomics: Public Policy and Bioethical Issues Associated with Patents for Drug Development

The genetic component of variations in human responses to pharmacological agents is called pharmacogenetics while the molecular basis for these variations are most often identified as pharmacogenomics. Pharmacogenomics as a field of scientific endeavor is so new that in the scientific literature the two terms are often used interchangeably. In fact, the search for new drugs at the molecular level start with the identification of variations in DNA sequences whose products produce alterations in the amino acid structure of the active portion of a protein which are then identified with the clinical disorder in question. This process is just the reverse of standard pharmaceutical approaches which begin with exploration of the physiological and potentially the biochemical basis of the specific disorder under study. The completion of the first draft of the human genome in the first months of the new millenium has increased expectations that molecular genetic approaches to drug disovery and development will sign...
Effect of calcium on bone marrow mitosis in vitro.

SummaryThe use of calcium-enriched serum as nutrient for bone marrow cultures produces a remarkable mitotic stimulation in vitro. The responsive cells may be those normally in a dormant state and under the present conditions they appear to be capable of a 4-hour mean generation time.
112 BILATERAL PNEUMOTHORACES SECONDARY TO PULMONARY METASTASES FROM A WILMS' TUMOR: A CASE REPORT.

Case Report This is a 29-year-old AA male who initially presented to the LSU Urology Department complaining of difficulties in urinating. Initial cystoscopy revealed a necrotic mass at the base of the bladder as well as a prostatic urethral mass that pathology reported as an abscess with necrotic and hemorrhagic entities but negative for malignancy. Pathology slides were sent to the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology and resulted in a diagnosis of Wilms9 tumor. The patient underwent a cystoprostatectomy and then received chemotherapy at LSU for approximately three cycles of VIP (cisplatin, ifosfamide, etoposide) that ended 2 months prior to his first presentation with a pneumothorax. The patient was treated at an outside hospital for recurrent pneumothoraces requiring multiple chest tubes and actually underwent a video-assisted thoracoscopy bilaterally just under 2 months prior to this presentation. The patient presented at this admission after having been discharged just 4 days earlier for a right-sided pneumothorax. The patient was evaluated by the Pulmonary Service as well as the Cardiothoracic Surgery Service, both of which felt that there was no further beneficial intervention that could be performed at this time. Referral to the Hematology/Oncology Service was made, which felt that further chemotherapy would not be beneficial to the patient. He was subsequently discharged to home hospice with oxygen. Pneumothoraces secondary to nephroblastic metastatic lesions are rare. In fact, less than 1% of all spontaneous pneumothoraces are a result of pulmonary metastasis. Most complicating pneumothoraces have been seen with metasatic osteosarcomas, although synovial sarcomas, Ewing9s tumors, and hemangioendotheliosarcomas have been reported. Previous reports have noted such a complication in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Gordon et al reported a case involving metasatic disease in a 14-year-old who presented with pneumothorax 10 years after chemotherapy. All previous case reports have documented such rare complications in children, which is the most common population to have a diagnosis of a Wilms9 tumor. It is not surprising, then, that previously documented, albeit rare, complications such as recurrent pneumothoraces can happen in an adult with stage IV nephroblastoma. Multiple hypotheses have tried to account for this phenomenon. A ball-valve mechanism secondary to tumor burden intruding on bronchioles and bronchi, causing cavitary lesions, and evolving into thin-walled cysts. Rowinsky et al proposed a necrotic process of pulmonary lesions that cavitate secondary to poor blood supply, resulting in the rare complication we are presenting in this case report. Another possibility for pneumothoraces in such patients could be radiotherapy causing fibrosis leading to mild or moderate pneumothorax. This method does not apply to our particular patient since he never received radiotherapy.
Introduction of weather-strip for passenger car and extrusion process

Introdution rubber based weather-strips for passenger car, description their structure and design trend. Detailed explain extrusion and curing process, point out key process character should be attention at production.
Segmental heterogeneity of NO-mediated pulmonary vasodilation in rats

Nitric oxide (NO) is known to elicit vasodilation in the preconstricted rat lung. However, the sites of dilation within the pulmonary vasculature remain unknown. We hypothesized that donated NO would dilate all areas of constriction within the pulmonary vasculature, whereas receptor-mediated, NO-induced dilations would correspond to regional binding of agents. Isolated lungs from male Sprague-Dawley rats were perfused at constant flow with physiological saline solution. Pulmonary arterial and pulmonary venous pressures were monitored, while pulmonary microvascular pressures were estimated by vascular occlusion. Lungs were constricted with U-46619, and upon development of a stable degree of vasoconstriction, the NO donor sodium nitroprusside or the endothelium-dependent dilators A23187, arginine vasopressin, or ATP were administered. U-46619 caused constriction of both arterial and venous segments. Administration of sodium nitroprusside and the calcium ionophore A23187 elicited similar dilation of preconstricted arterial and venous segments. Arginine vasopressin significantly dilated both arterial and venous segments, with a greater reversal of venous resistance. In contrast, ATP significantly reduced arterial resistance more than venous. These results demonstrate that donated NO uniformly dilates all constricted regions of the pulmonary vasculature. However, receptor-mediated, endothelium-dependent dilators display characteristic heterogeneities in the sites of decreased pulmonary vascular resistance.
INTEGRATING THORACIC RADIOTHERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF LIMITED SMALL-CELL LUNG CANCER

Although the need to combine thoracic radiotherapy with systemic chemotherapy in the curative treatment of limited small-cell lung cancer is now widely acknowledged, there is substantial disagreement on how best to do this. This paper reviews radiotherapeutic factors but also highlights the important interactions that occur with some classes of chemotherapeutics. Studies examining variables like dose and volume are clearly in order. Concurrent therapy given early has been adopted throughout most of the world, except Europe. The reasons for this are explored. Multiple studies are now showing excellent results with fewer total cycles of chemotherapy. Integrationof newer drugs is another challenge for clinical investigators at the close of this century. [ONCOLOGY 12(Suppl 2):15-18, 1998]
Characterization of supercharged cellulase activity and stability in ionic liquids

Abstract Ionic liquids (ILs) have many potential benefits in biochemical processes, including improved substrate or product solubility, increased enzyme selectivity, and higher yield. Varying ion substituents allow ILs to be tuned or optimized to achieve a specific goal. Unfortunately, optimization based on a single design criterion can have undesirable side effects on other process components. For example, hydrophilic ILs capable of efficiently dissolving biomass often inhibit enzymatic activity during hydrolysis. A panel of nine different aqueous ILs was selected for this study to systematically assess which factors contribute to the loss of enzyme activity. The activity of endoglucanase E1 from Acidothermus cellulolyticus steadily decreased in higher concentrations of ILs, especially in the presence of the common cellulose dissolving solvent 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate. The impact of most other ILs could be rationalized via the Hofmeister series. Enzyme behavior was further probed by rationally modifying the surface charge of E1. Variants were computationally designed to have positively or negatively charged surfaces and assessed for activity in ILs. Surprisingly, positive supercharging maintained wild type activity levels in ILs, while negative supercharging drastically reduced activity. Discrepancy between stability and activity measurements for some ILs indicated active site inhibition or other unique inactivation mechanisms might be crucial components to consider in future studies.
SU-F-J-41: Experimental Validation of a Cascaded Linear System Model for MVCBCT with a Multi-Layer EPID

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to validate the use of a cascaded linear system model for MV cone-beam CT (CBCT) using a multi-layer (MLI) electronic portal imaging device (EPID) and provide experimental insight into image formation. A validated 3D model provides insight into salient factors affecting reconstructed image quality, allowing potential for optimizing detector design for CBCT applications. Methods: A cascaded linear system model was developed to investigate the potential improvement in reconstructed image quality for MV CBCT using an MLI EPID. Inputs to the three-dimensional (3D) model include projection space MTF and NPS. Experimental validation was performed on a prototype MLI detector installed on the portal imaging arm of a Varian TrueBeam radiotherapy system. CBCT scans of up to 898 projections over 360 degrees were acquired at exposures of 16 and 64 MU. Image volumes were reconstructed using a Feldkamp-type (FDK) filtered backprojection (FBP) algorithm. Flat field images and scans of a Catphan model 604 phantom were acquired. The effect of 2×2 and 4×4 detector binning was also examined. Results: Using projection flat fields as an input, examination of the modeled and measured NPS in the axial plane exhibits good agreement. Binning projection images was shown to improve axial slice SDNR by a factor of approximately 1.4. This improvement is largely driven by a decrease in image noise of roughly 20%. However, this effect is accompanied by a subsequent loss in image resolution. Conclusion: The measured axial NPS shows good agreement with the theoretical calculation using a linear system model. Binning of projection images improves SNR of large objects on the Catphan phantom by decreasing noise. Specific imaging tasks will dictate the implementation image binning to two-dimensional projection images. The project was partially supported by a grant from Varian Medical Systems, Inc. and grant No. R01CA188446-01 from the National Cancer Institute.