cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Search for Exit Strategies from Neo-Colonial Interventions

In many respects the current US situation in Iraq is one that resembles a colonial or neo-colonial policy. This involves forced entry by external great powers bent on reshaping the political system and taking command of the economic resources and their use. Although the initial conflict was international in nature, a persistent insurgency continues to challenge these efforts. The United States, nonetheless, continues to work toward a successful withdrawal from Iraq. This article explores the potential for successful exit. Using a case set of 17 extra-state wars for the period 1945-99, the authors explore factors of international support, exit agreements, and additional conflict variables in relation to exit outcome. Although a clear pattern of successful exit does not emerge, our findings sug gest that some of our assumptions regarding newly emerging states and external power withdrawal should perhaps be questioned.
Scalable Application-Level Anycast for Highly Dynamic Groups

We present an application-level implementation of anycast for highly dynamic groups. The implementation can handle group sizes varying from one to the whole Internet, and membership maintenance is efficient enough to allow members to join for the purpose of receiving a single message. Key to this efficiency is the use of a proximity-aware peer-to-peer overlay network for decentralized, lightweight group maintenance; nodes join the overlay once and can join and leave many groups many times to amortize the cost of maintaining the overlay. An anycast implementation with these properties provides a key building block for distributed applications. In particular, it enables management and location of dynamic resources in large scale peer-to-peer systems. We present several resource management applications that are enabled by our implementation.
User capacity of a power controlled CDMA system with multiple base stations

The user capacity of the uplink of a multiple cell synchronous CDMA system is analyzed along with power and channel allocation. For the most part, attention is focused on the situation when the signature sequences are chosen from an orthogonal sequence set. The user capacity of the system is the maximum number of users per unit processing gain admissible in the system such that each user has its quality of service (QoS) requirement (expressed in terms of its desired signal-to-interference ratio) met. The user capacity depends on the path gains of the users to the base stations and the comparison of the user capacity per unit processing gain with the maximum number of admissible users in a single channel system allows us to describe (in terms of the path gains) scenarios when the user capacity of the system can be increased by having more processing gain. We conclude by conjecturing the user capacity region when the signature sequences are not constrained and the base station estimates the users' symbols with matched filter and linear MMSE receiver structures.
Technologies for sharing and collaborating on the Net

This paper is an overview of the technologies that are needed for Peer-to-Peer (P2P) computing. It represent a high level overview of material covered in much greater detail in Barkai, (2001). P2P means different things to different people, and we start by defining P2P and categorizing applications that use P2P. Server-mediated P2P is included as a legitimate P2P architecture. The applications space is divided into three types: distributing computing, content sharing, and collaboration. After a discussion of what is required from an infrastructure for P2P we describe some solutions that address a class of applications each, but also include a start towards a general-purpose architecture. The same basic services are needed by each platform and application, and all will benefit from common middleware. This is one way, though not the only one, to achieve interoperability - that will be useful to users and application developers; in particular, when we reach the integrated applications stage. Regardless of how the infrastructure is constructed, the technical topics which need to be addressed are the same: communication through gateways and firewalls; naming and discovery of peers and resources when DNS is not enough; availability and persistence of resources in spite of intermittent connectivity and dynamic presence; security in a distrustful environment and locally managed systems; and, management of distributed resources in a heterogeneous setting. There are a number of interesting ways in which people have applied P2P technologies. We give an example in each of the three application categories. The final segment of the talk summarizes the challenges that need to be overcome if P2P is to be widely adopted. The major technical challenges are direct communication, security, naming and interoperability. There are also social and cultural barriers. These are the result of decentralization, and loss of direct control over resources. They also have to do with trust, reputation, and online communities. Nonetheless, there are some promising activities around the industry-working groups and initiatives, and a great opportunity.
Intradiploic epidermoid cyst of the skull: case report.

We describe the radiologic and pathologic features of a giant intradiploic epidermoid cyst of the skull, a benign tumor despite radiographic evidence for calvarial erosion and displacement of brain parenchyma.
Infrared investigations of pristine polypyrrole — Is the polymer called polypyrrole really poly(pyrrole-co-hydroxypyrrole)?

Abstract Polypyrrole (PPy) is one of the most extensively investigated of the electronically conductive polymers. Nevertheless, there is still much we do not understand about this interesting and useful material. One of the most persistent mysteries involves simple chemical composition. Doped PPy should have the empirical formula C 4 H 3 NX z , where X − is the dopant counterion and z is the fractional doping level; z is typically on the order of 0.3. However, elemental analyses of PPy typically show empirical formulae like C 4 H 3 NX z O y , where y ranges from 0.3 to 0.7 unaccounted for oxygen atoms per pyrrole ring. This paper presents IR spectral data which suggest that the oxygen in PPy is present as covalently bound hydroxide. Analogous IR investigations of poly( N -methylpyrrole) films show that this polymer is also hydroxylated. The hydroxy substitution present in these polymers undoubtedly results from nucleophilic attack by water on the nascent polycationic chains.
Acceleration of Hydration of Calcium Silicates by Carbon Dioxide Treatment

LIME mortars were one of the first cementitious materials and were used extensively in Greek and Roman times. Strength development by the reaction of atmospheric CO2 with Ca(OH)2 to form CaCO3 is slow because the carbonation reaction is controlled by the diffusion of CO2 at small partial pressures. If high partial pressures of CO2 are used, however, Ca(OH)2 can carbonate very rapidly and recently compressive strengths of 2,000–4,000 pound inch2 have been achieved in compacted blends of lime with soils1 and coal refuse2. The experimental data2, 3 suggest that the carbonation reaction is taking place primarily in the aqueous film surrounding the particles.
Inequality and business cycles in the U.S. and European Union countries

This paper derives the business cycle properties of some aggregate and disaggregate inequality indices for the U.S. and three European Union countries (United Kingdom, Italy, and Greece). The findings suggest that inequality indices move countercyclically with output in the U.S. and the United Kingdom, a procyclical behavior prevailed in Greece, and a mixed cycle influenced Italy. A common countercyclical pattern of inequality indices with inflation and unemployment characterizes the three large economies (U.S., United Kingdom, and Italy). Also, in most countries, the top income group seems to lose at the benefit of the rest during inflationary periods while, in all four countries, the poor will gain from inflation and suffer from unemployment.
Tau Mutations in Frontotemporal Dementia

Genetic analysis has determined that a series of disorders related clinically and pathologically to frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are etiologically related. The relationship between these disorders was initially established based on linkage analysis and has been solidified by the identification of mutations in the tau gene in many families. Mutations affecting the expression or structure of the microtubule binding domain of the tau gene have been found in many large families with chromosome 17q21-22-linked disease. These mutations only account for a small fraction of cases of FTD that are either sporadic or that contain only a few affected relatives.
Stress Path Testing for Proper Characterization of Unbound Aggregate Base Behavior

Realistic pavement stresses induced by moving wheel loads were examined in granular base layers, and the significant effects of rotation of principal stress axes were addressed for a proper characterization of unbound aggregate behavior. Granular material resilient moduli are commonly determined at the centerline of wheel loading without taking into account the effects of moving wheel loads and the constantly rotating field principal stress states. Differences that exist between field- and laboratory-applied stress states were identified by comparing the field stresses simulated using a nonlinear axisymmetric finite element program, GT-PAVE, with the stress states commonly used in the standard resilient modulus test procedure, AASHTO T294-94. Three sets of complete triaxial test data obtained from testing aggregates under various realistic in situ stress paths caused by moving wheel loading were analyzed. Eight different granular material modulus models were developed from the experimental test data to in...
DESIGN ISSUES IN ULTRA-FAST ULTRA-LOW-POWER SUPERCONDUCTOR BATCHER-BANYAN SWITCHING FABRIC BASED ON RSFQ LOGIC/MEMORY FAMILY

Abstract The results are presented of the feasibility study of ultra-fast low-power superconductor digital switches based on Rapid Single-Flux-Quantum (RSFQ) technology. RSFQ-based crossbar, Batcher-banyan, and shared bus switching fabrics are considered, and the complexity and performance parameters of these circuits have been estimated. The results show that the proposed SFQ digital switches with overall throughput of 5.76 Tbps operating at an internal clock frequency of ∼60 GHz and dissipating as low as 45 mW power per fabric could effectively compete with their semiconductor and photonic counterparts. The most compact and low-power architecture, the Batcher-banyan switching fabric with TDM switching elements, has been selected for implementation and will be discussed in the paper in detail.
T cells expanded in presence of IL-15 exhibit increased antioxidant capacity and innate effector molecules

Abstract Persistence of effector cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) during an immunological response is critical for successfully controlling a viral infection or tumor growth. Various cytokines are known to play an important part in regulating the immune response. The IL-2 family of cytokines that includes IL-2 and IL-15 are known to function as growth and survival factors for antigen-experienced T cells. IL-2 and IL-15 possess similar properties, including the ability to induce T cell proliferation. Whereas long-term IL-2 exposure has been shown to promote apoptosis and limit CD8 + memory T cell survival and proliferation, it is widely believed that IL-15 can inhibit apoptosis and helps maintain a memory CD8 + T-cell population. However, mechanisms for superior outcomes for IL-15 as compared to IL-2 are still under investigation. Our data shows that human T cells cultured in the presence of IL-15 exhibit increased expression of anti-oxidant molecules glutathione reductase (GSR), thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNDR1), peroxiredoxin (PRDX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). An increased expression of cell-surface thiols, intracellular glutathione, and thioredoxins was also noted in IL-15 cultured T cells. Additionally, IL-15 cultured T cells showed an increase in cytolytic effector molecules. Apart from increased level of Granzyme A and Granzyme B, IL-15 cultured T cells exhibited increased accumulation of reactive oxygen (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) as compared to IL-2 cultured T cells. Overall, this study suggests that T cells cultured in IL-15 show increased persistence not only due to levels of anti-apoptotic proteins, but also due to increased anti-oxidant levels, which is complimented by increased cytolytic effector functions.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury: Pathophysiology and Acute Therapeutic Strategies

The cellular cascades of damage to the central nervous system (CNS) are becoming increasingly clear. The foundation of evidence is based primarily on animal models. Although there is a growing body of knowledge of therapeutics for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI), the literature is scanty in addressing therapeutic intervention for both. It is unclear why current treatment protocols are proven to be effective in one neurotrauma subpopulation and not efficacious in another group. For instance, methylprednisolone has been noted to be associated with worse outcome in penetrating SCI, yet to be beneficial in other traumatic SCI causes. This article will review the anatomical basis, common pathophysiological processes, and therapeutics for TBI and SCI. A broad overview of current beliefs regarding management techniques and novel neuroprotective therapies, which may eventually influence functional outcome, will be presented for the rehabilitation professional.
Distribution-free partial discrimination procedures

This paper reviews discrimination procedures which provide distribution-free control over the individual misclassification probabilities. Particular emphasis is placed on the two-population rank method developed by Broffitt, Randles and Hogg, which utilizes the general formulation of Quesenberry and Gessaman. It is shown that the rank method extends from two to three or more populations in a natural and flexible fashion. A Monte Carlo study compares two suggested extensions with others proposed by Broffitt.
Anisotropy of physical properties in metamorphic rocks

Abstract The velocity of elastic waves has been measured along the principal fabric directions in 110 Alpine rocks, and these data are analyzed in conjunction with previously measured data on density, porosity, specific heat, and thermal diffusivity for the same rocks. Particular attention is given to the anisotropy in the thermal and elastic properties which are up to three times larger in the direction of lineation than in the direction perpendicular to the foliation. The correlations among the various scalar properties and the average thermal and elastic properties are in general weak and are overshadowed by variations due to mineralogy. However, relative thermal and elastic properties show a significant positive correlation, and for gneisses, schists, ultramafic rocks and carbonate rocks it is meaningful to predict thermal anisotropy on the basis of elastic anisotropy.
Constrained least-squares estimation in deconvolution from wave-front sensing

Abstract We address the optimal processing of astronomical images using the deconvolution from wave-front sensing technique (DWFS). A constrained least-squares (CLS) solution which incorporates ensemble average DWFS data is derived using Lagrange minimization. The new estimator requires DWFS data, noise statistics, OTF statistics, and a constraint. The constraint can be chosen such that the algorithm selects a conventional regularization constant automatically. No ad hoc parameter tuning is necessary. The algorithm uses an iterative Newton-Raphson minimization to determine the optimal Lagrange multiplier. Computer simulation of a 1 m telescope imaging through atmospheric turbulence is used to test the estimation scheme. CLS object estimates are compared with those processed via manual tuning of the regularization constant. The CLS algorithm provides images with comparable resolution and is computationally inexpensive, converging to a solution in less than 10 iterations.
Faust: an integrated environment for parallel programming

A description is given of Faust, an integrated environment for the development of large, scientific applications. Faust includes a project-management tool, a context editor that is interfaced to a program database, and performance-evaluation tools. In Faust, all applications work is done in the context of projects, which serve as the focal point for all tool interactions. A project roughly corresponds to an executable program. Faust achieves functional integration through operations on common data sets maintained in each project. Sigma, a Faust tool designed to help users of parallel supercomputers retarget and optimize application code, helps them either fine-tune parallel code that has been automatically generated or optimize a new parallel algorithm's design. Faust includes a dynamic call-graph tool and an integrated, multiprocessor performance analysis and characterization tool set. >
Doubling Expression of the Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor by Truncation of the 3′-Untranslated Region Sequence Ameliorates Type III Hyperlipoproteinemia in Mice Expressing the Human ApoE2 Isoform

The primary receptor mediating clearance of apolipoprotein (apo)E- and apoB100-containing lipoproteins from the circulation is the low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor. Reduced expression of the LDLR is believed to be a precipitating factor in the pathogenesis of type III hyperlipoproteinemia (HLP) in some humans homozygous for the apoE2 allele (APOE*2). To test the effect of genetic changes in LDL receptor expression on the pathogenesis of type III HLP, we have generated a variant allele at the endogenous mouse Ldlr locus that expresses the human LDL receptor transcript. Transcription of the human LDLR minigene is regulated by the endogenous mouse promoter sequence, but a truncation of 3'-untranslated region results in increased mRNA stability. Consequently, in liver of heterozygotes, steady state levels of mouse and human LDLR transcripts are 50 and 180% the levels of total transcript in wild type mice, respectively. Overall, the 2.3-fold normal level of LDLR message in heterozygotes completely ameliorates type III HLP caused by the homozygosity for the human APOE*2 allele, normalizing their plasma lipoprotein profile. We conclude that a modest increase in expression of the LDLR through message stabilization is sufficient to prevent precipitation of type III HLP in mice.
Effect of sensor pixel size on tracking

Pixel-size effects on the probability of detection and on measurement extraction accuracy (the position measurement noise variance) for point sources in the focal plane (FP) of an optical sensor are analyzed from a general target tracking perspective. The analysis uses the point spread function of the optical sensor, which causes distant targets | point sources | to appear as a spatially extended pattern in the FP. Measurement extraction, both via Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) and pixel detection centroiding is examined. The impact of pixel size, target strength (SNR) and target motion uncertainty (“maneuvering index") on tracking accuracy are quantified theoretically and verified by simulations.
Polygonal arrays of microfilaments in epithelial cells of the intact lens

Polygonal arrays of microfilaments have been discovered to line the inner apical plasma membrane of anterior epithelial cells of the intact rabbit lens. When tangential sections are studied with the electron microscope, the polygonal arrays are seen to consist of central vertices interconnected by rays of filaments. The rays near the cell periphery insert into the lateral plasma membrane. The vertices are spaced about 1 μm apart and appear to be attached to the apical plasma membrane. The polygonal arrays have little depth as judged by stereo-pairs and are incorporated within the dense band of microfilaments seen in cross-section at the epithelio-fiber junction.The diameter of the filaments and their similarity to actin-containing polygonal arrays described by other investigators in cultured cells suggest that these structures contain actin in lens epithelial cells. The function of the polygonal arrays in relation to maintenance of lens shape or to changes in lens shape in accommodation is discussed.
Dimensional Integration of Assessment Outcomes with Intervention Services for Children with Specific Learning Disabilities.

This article reviews critical issues with integrating different procedures for identifying children with specific learning disabilities permitted in the federal regulations of the 2004 Individual With Disabilities Education Act 2004. Theoretical differences between behavioral approaches that focus on recording behavioral responses based on manipulating variables and approaches that focus on measuring attributes internal to the person (e.g., cognition, cognitive processing, intelligence) are identified as primary barriers to integrating different approaches. A coding scheme that represents disability severity along a continuous dimension based on empirical evidence across multiple domains of functioning (e.g., academic, cognitive, social-emotional) is proposed. Similarly, interventions are represented along a continuous dimension and linked to disability severity through specification of intervention levels. The coding scheme provides a general framework for integrating assessment results with intervention...
Investigation of Jet-Flame Blowout with Lean-Limit Considerations

The current study utilizes digital image sequences of flames to better understand the blowout phenomenon. Methane flames are studied near blowout conditions to determine if the disappearance of the diffusion flame prior to extinguishment signifies the leading edge of the reaction zone reaching the lean-limit. Various concentrations of nitrogen are used to dilute methane flames. The axial position of the flames is compared with the calculated position of the lean flammability limit to determine the role of the diffusion flame. The blowout limits of these flames are established and a blowout parameter is empirically determined from the data. Results from flames in co-flow show agreement with the blowout parameter previously published; however, the analysis shows that, the disappearance of the bulk diffusive reaction zone occurs at the lean flammability limit and is an accurate predictor of blowout for diluted and non-diluted methane flames.
Enhancing the written medium for culturally diverse learners via reciprocal interaction

A positive view of culturally diverse learners is advocated. The written medium can serve as an opportunity for self-expression and empowerment. A reciprocal interaction model that allows for student control and capitalizes on student interest is far more culturally responsive than current deficit models.
Relationship of intraamniotic digoxin to fetal demise.

Abstract Background Induced fetal demise by intraamniotic injection of digoxin is an alternative to methods using intracardiac or umbilical vein injection. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of intraamniotic injection and the timing of fetal demise after injection. Study Design Twenty-two women had ultrasonic fetal cardiac assessments 1, 2, 4 and 20 to 24 h after intraamniotic injection of 1.5 mg digoxin. Results Fetal cardiac activity was absent in 21/21 women assessed at least 20 h after injection. One woman had agonal (40 bpm) fetal cardiac activity at 14 h. Most women had fetal cardiac activity 4 h after injection. Signs of toxicity were not seen. Conclusion Intraamniotic injection of digoxin 1.5 mg is effective at causing fetal demise by 20 to 24 h. However, for most women, fetal demise is not obtained within 4 h.
Solitons in liquid crystals: Recent developments

Abstract Liquid crystal is a state of matter intermediate between isotropic liquid and anisotropic crystal. The mechanical and optical properties of liquid crystals are highly nonlinear. Consequently, they are naturally soliton-bearing media. After a brief general introduction, five topics in recent developments on solitons in liquid crystals are presented, namely (i) optical solitons, (ii) solitons in nematics under a rotating magnetic field, (iii) solitons in electroconvective nematics, (iv) incommensurate solitons in smectic A, and (v) the soliton model for the chevron structure in ferroelectric smectic C∗ and in smectic A.
A family of yeast expression vectors containing the phage f1 intergenic region1

Abstract The construction and characterization of a family of yeast expression vectors is described. They have the following features: (1) plasmid replication and selection (Ap R ) in Escherichia coli , (2) packaging of single-stranded ss) DNA upon infection of E. coli with a filamentous helper phage, (3) replication in Saccharomyces cerevisiae based on the 2 μ plasmid origin of replication ( ori ), (4) selection in yeast by complementation of LEU 2 (pVT-L series, size 6.3 kb) or URA 3 gene (pVT-U series, size 6.9 kb) and (5) seven unique restriction sites for cloning within an “expression cassette” which includes the promoter and 3′ sequence of the ADH1 gene. The multiple cloning site as well as the ori and intergenic region of the phage f 1 have been cloned in two orientations for convenient gene cloning and ssDNA strand selection. As a result any of these eight vectors can be chosen for cloning, expressing genes in yeast, sequencing and mutagenesis without the need for recloning into specialized vectors.
Unbalancing data with wavelet transformations

Discrete wavelet transformations have become indispensable analytical tools in data compression and data denoising. In this paper we give some empirical accounts of wavelet transformations and propose novel thresholding and wavelet selection methods. This is achieved via connections with measures of inequality, that have been used in economics for a long time. We compare our methods with standard thresholding and wavelet selection procedures.
Simple Method of Harvesting Limnoria from Nature

Outward diffusion of salt from a concentrated solution placed in a centrally bored, cylindrical hole causes Limnoria to collect at the surface of infested wood.
Residual stresses in single-point machined beryllium

A single-point turned (SPT) beryllium surface has been evaluated for manifestations of surface damage which could lead to dimensional instability. Surface fissures, residual stress and crystallographic changes have been observed. Measurements of the residual , stresses have been made using a variation of the Treuting-Read Method wherein deformations associated with the progressive removal of surface layers are used to estimate the residual stresses. In this case, the deformations have been measured interferometrically on the reverse surface of the single-point turned disk. Residual stresses of 40,000 psi were observed at the machined surface. At a depth of 120 microinches, the residual stresses are negligible.
The influence of prostaglandins on neurotransmission in the rabbit isolated vas deferens

Abstract Arachidonic acid and PGs of the D, E, F and I series were examined for influences on neurogenic contractions of the rabbit isolated vas deferens. This preparation exhibits two pharmacological distinct contractions in response to electrical stimulation. All of the PGs tested inhibited the neurogenic contractions but the pattern of inhibition differed. PGE 1 and PGI 2 inhibited the adrenergic contractile phase more potently than the nonadrenergic, and PGF 2 α exhibited the opposite selectivity. Arachidonic acid, PGE 2 and PGD 2 produced equipotent effects on both contractile phases, although PGE 2 was the most potent in producing these effects. None of the PGs altered the concentration-response curve to norepinephrine. Contractile responses to ATP, a putative neurotransmitter, were inhibited by PGF 2 α but not by the other PGs. These results suggest that the PG effects are predominantly prejunctional. The differing potencies of the PGs on the two neural components are consistent with the hypothesis that neurotransmitters in the vas deferens are released by distinct types of nerves.
Falcon Eye Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) System

Texas Instruments has completed the development of a new, cost-effective family of FLIR systems named "Falcon Eye" for current and future fighter aircraft. Falcon Eye is based on advanced detector technology in a system concept that merges the FLIR function of a navigation pod and many of the functions of a targeting pod within a conformal sensor package. This new FLIR packaging concept will virtually eliminate the drag penalty associated with externally mounted FLIR systems.
Subsurface structure of the Evershed flows in sunspots

The radial outflows in sunspot penumbrae, known as the Evershed effect, are of significant interest for understanding the dynamics of sunspots. Local helioseismology has not been able to determine the depth of these flows nor their relationship to mass circulation in sunspots. Recent radiative MHD simulations have provided a convincing explanation of the Evershed flow as a natural consequence of magnetoconvection in the strongly inclined magnetic field region of the penumbra. The simulations reproduce many observational features of penumbra dynamics, including the filamentary structure, the high-speed non-stationary "Evershed clouds", and the "sea-serpent" behavior of magnetic field lines. We present the subsurface structure of the Evershed effect, obtained from numerical simulations, and determine the depth of the radial outflows for various magnetic field strengths and inclinations. The simulations predict that Evershed flows are rather shallow and concentrated in the top 0.5 – 1 Mm layer of the convection zone. This prediction can be tested by local helioseismology methods.
Pool-Riffle Morphology in an Actively Migrating Alluvial Channel: The Lower Mississippi River

This study analyzes the pool-riffle morphology of the Lower Mississippi River within the context of an actively migrating meandering river. Historic hydrographic surveys (1:20,000) from the late 18...
Treatment of pseudotumor cerebri by primary and secondary optic nerve sheath decompression.

We performed optic nerve sheath decompression in 53 patients (101 eyes) with pseudotumor cerebri and visual loss. Sixty-nine eyes (85 patients) with acute papilledema uniformly had improved visual function after optic nerve sheath decompression. Of 32 eyes with chronic papilledema (18 patients), only ten had improved visual function after optic nerve sheath decompression. This difference was significant (P = .0001). Thirteen eyes required secondary or tertiary optic nerve sheath decompression after an initial successful result. Eleven of 13 eyes had improved visual function after repeat optic nerve sheath decompression. We believe that patients with acute papilledema and visual loss should be offered optic nerve sheath decompression, and if symptoms recur, repeat optic nerve sheath decompression is a safe and effective treatment option.
Species distinction among pollen grains of Abies, Picea, and Pinus in the rocky mountain area (A scanning electron microscope study)

Modern pollen grains from several species of Abies, Picea and Pinus occurring mainly in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States and Canada were examined using the scanning electron microscope. Distinguishing characteristics for the species were found using systematized observational and photographic methods on extensive collections. Preparation of the samples included acetolysis, critical-point drying to preserve three-dimensional morphology, and carbon-gold coating. The technique employed in preparing the pollen samples is outlined in detail in this paper. Species distinctions were based on types of morphological structures rather than on measurements of the grains or their parts; however, several subjective determinations of shape and proportion proved useful in distinguishing certain species. Pollen grains of Abies grandis, A. amabilis and A. lasiocarpa were found to differ in the morphology of the triradiate streak. Picea glauca and P. sitchensis differ in cappula morphology and P. engelmannii shows distinctive bladder proportion and placement. Pinus ponderosa differs from P. contorta on the basis of cappula morphology. Pinus monticola and P. albicaulis can, at the same time, be singled out from the other pines studied and distinguished one from the other by a combination of a cappula and cappa characteristics. Pinus cembroides is distinguished from the other pines by its characteristic cappa and P. edulis by shape, proportion and attachement of its bladders. Although Pinus monophylla showed no single distinctive morphological feature, it can be separated from the other pines studied by a process of elimination based on several characteristics.
Carbon isotope effect in single-crystal Rb3C60

Abstract We have synthesized single crystals of isotopically enriched Rb 3 C 60 . The very sharp superconducting transitions in single crystal superconducting fullerides allow us to determine the isotope effect on the superconducting transition temperature, T c , with unprecedented accuracy. We find that the carbon isotope shift exponent α carbon for 99% 13 C. This coupled with near-zero significantly smaller than other values reported in the literature 1–6 . This, coupled with the near-zero rubidium isotope effect reported by B. Burk et. al. 7 , should place considerable constraints on any theoretical model of superconductivity in the alkali fullerides.
Sleep Apnea and Nasal Patency

Clinical investigations over the last decade have revealed that sleep may not be the benign rejuvenating state it was once considered. Sleep apnea is now frequently recognized, and it is clear that...
Cell type-dependent pro- and anti-inflammatory role of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in alcoholic liver injury

Background & Aims: Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is known to be activated in human alcoholic liver disease, but its role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver injury remains obscure. Methods: The role of STAT3 in alcoholic liver injury was investigated in hepatocyte-specific STAT3 knockout (H-STAT3KO) mice and macrophage/neutrophil-specific STAT3 KO (M/N-STAT3KO) mice. Alcoholic liver injury was achieved by feeding mice a liquid diet containing 5% ethanol for up to 8 weeks. Results: Compared with wild-type mice, feeding H-STAT3KO mice with an ethanol-containing diet induced greater hepatic steatosis, hypertriglyceridemia, and hepatic expression of lipogenic genes (sterol regulatory element-binding protein, fatty acid synthase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase-1, and stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1), but less inflammation and lower expression of hepatic proinflammatory cytokines. In contrast, ethanol-fed M/N-STAT3KO mice showed more hepatic inflammation, worse injury, and increased hepatic expression of proinflammatory cytokines compared with wild-type mice. Kupffer cells isolated from ethanol-fed H-STAT3KO mice produced similar amounts of reactive oxygen species and tumor necrosis factor α, whereas Kupffer cells from M/N-STAT3KO mice produced more reactive oxygen species and tumor necrosis factor α compared with wild-type controls. Conclusions: These findings suggest that STAT3 regulates hepatic inflammation in a cell type–dependent manner during alcoholic liver injury: STAT3 in hepatocytes promotes whereas STAT3 in macrophages/Kupffer cells suppresses inflammation. In addition, activation of hepatocellular STAT3 ameliorates alcoholic fatty liver via inhibition of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c expression.
Homelessness in the US: an ethnographic look at consumption strategies

This article provides an overview of scholarship on the lived consumption experience of homeless people in the US. Three ethnographic studies are the input for this integration, and the results are expressed thematically to be consistent with this methodological form. Internal dialogue from two short stories concerning single adult males and female-headed families is used to make the themes come alive for the reader. The article concludes with a brief summary of these findings and implications for future homelessness research. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new genetic algorithm technique in optimization of permanent 125I prostate implants.

Real time optimized treatment planning at the time of the implant is desirable for ultrasound-guided transperineal 125 I permanent prostate implants. Currently available optimization algorithms are too slow to be used in the operating room. The goal of this work is to develop a robust optimization algorithm, which is suitable for such application. Three different genetic algorithms (sGA, sureGA and securGA) were developed and compared in terms of the number of function evaluations and the corresponding fitness. The optimized dose distribution was achieved by searching the best seed distribution through the minimization of a cost function. The cost function included constraints on the periphery dose of the planned target volume, the dose uniformity within the target volume, and the dose to the critical structure. Adjustment between the peripheral dose, the dose uniformity and critical structure dose can be achieved by varying the weighting factors in the cost function. All plans were evaluated in terms of the dose nonuniformity ratio, the conformation number and the dose volume histograms. Among these three GA algorithms, the securGA provided the best performance. Within 2500 function evaluations, the near optimum results were obtained. For a large target volume (5 cm×4 cm×4.5 cm) including urethra with 20 needles, the computer time needed for the optimization was less than 5 min on a HP735 workstation. The results showed that once the best set of parameters was found, they were applicable for all sizes of prostate volume. For a fixed needle geometry, the optimized plan showed much better dose distribution than that of nonoptimized plan. If the critical structure was considered in the optimization, the dose to the critical structure could be minimized. In the cases of irregular and skewed needle geometry, the optimized treatment plans were almost as good as ideal needle geometry. It is concluded that this new genetic algorithm (securGA) allows for an efficient and rapid optimization of dose distribution, which is suitable for real time treatment planningoptimization for ultrasound-guided prostate implant.
Demand revealing — two minor notes

The purpose of this section is to correct an error in Tideman's and my "A New and Superior Process for Making Social Choices."' The correction of this error will I think improve the attractiveness of the demand-revealing process, so we are producing a further argument for advocates of the process rather than criticizing it. The error concerns the discussion of the wealth effect in the discrete option case (p. 1151) of the article. What we say there seems reasonable, that the value of the choice of A over B may be affected by the existence of a third alternative which, in essence, changes the wealth of the voter. But note that there is also wealth effect in the continuous case. The example of a wealth effect (p. 1151) is one in which there are three instead of two alternatives. If we turn to the continuous case; for example, the Figure 1 (p. 1153), there are infinite number of alternatives because all points on horizontal axis are, in essence, up for grabs. The demand curve of the individual shows his evaluation of each of these in-
Quantum Cascade Laser-Based Sensing for Carbon Sequestration Leakage Monitoring

Carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) may play a key role in our energy future. However, the widespread sequestration of ${\rm CO}_{2}$ into storage reservoirs is inhibited by safety and leakage concerns. Effective leakage monitoring at the surface is recently made possible by the development of quantum cascade (QC) laser-based sensors, which are capable of tracking fluxes in ${\rm CO}_{2}$ isotope concentrations. In this paper, we initially discuss the status of this technology, including recent results from distributed feedback QC lasers for use in sensing ${\rm CO}_{2}$ isotopic ratios. These lasers show single-mode emission at 4.32 $\mu{\rm m}$ , overlapping strong absorption resonances of $^{12}{\rm CO}_{2}$ , $^{13}{\rm CO}_{2}$ , and $^{18}{\rm OCO}$ . We then consider the value of such devices for quantifying ${\rm CO}_{2}$ leakage using a climate-economy integrated-assessment model that is modified to include CCS. The sensitivity of model outcomes to reservoir leakage is studied, showing that an average reservoir storage half-life on the order of 1000 years or longer can limit atmospheric temperature increases to 2 $^{\circ}{\rm C}$ or less over the next 150 years for economically optimal emissions scenarios. The present day economic value of CCS is established versus reservoir half-life, showing a significant return on investment ( ${\sim}{\rm 2}~{\rm trillion}$ U.S.$, or ${\sim}{\rm 4}\%$ of gross world product) when the average reservoir half-life is 250 years, with a sharp drop in the value of CCS technology for half-life values below 250 years. Quantifying ${\rm CO}_{2}$ leakage rates via QC laser-based sensing will contribute greatly toward accurately assessing CCS technology and its efficacy as part of ${\rm CO}_{2}$ limitation strategies.
Marketing Images Construct Definition, Measurement Issues, and Theory Development

This article examines inconsistent usage of the term ‘image’ in reference to brand, corporate, and store images and the measurement problems that have prevented theory development. It first traces the history of the term’s ambiguous usage in marketing and consumer behavior research, and presents classification systems for organizing post-1950s definitions into parsimonious groups. Next, it provides an overview of measurement problems related to the lack of nominal and operational definitions. It ends with a summary of where we are now and what needs to be done to advance theory development.
The Syrtis Major volcanic province, Mars: Synthesis from Mars Global Surveyor data

[1] We investigated the geology, stratigraphy, morphology, and topography of Syrtis Major, one of the large Hesperian-aged volcanic provinces on Mars. New data from the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) and Odyssey spacecraft allowed us to study Syrtis Major in unprecedented detail. On the basis of Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) data we estimated the thickness of Syrtis Major lavas to be on the order of ∼0.5–1.0 km, their volume being ∼1.6–3.2 × 105 km3. MOLA data also show that the calderas of Nili and Meroe Patera are located within a large N-S elongated central depression and are on the order of 2 km deep. MOLA data further indicate that the slopes of the flanks of the shield are ≪1°. These very gentle slopes are similar to other Martian highland paterae such as Amphitrites, Tyrrhena, and Syria Planum but are much smaller than slopes measured on the flanks of large Martian shield volcanoes such as Olympus, Elysium, Ascraeus, and Arsia Mons. At kilometer-scale baselines, the surface of the Syrtis Major Formation is smoother than the surrounding highland plains but rougher than the floor of Isidis. We propose that the differences in surface roughness and wrinkle ridge patterns between Isidis Planitia and Syrtis Major are probably caused by additional sedimentation in the impact basin. Both the wrinkle ridge pattern and topography of Syrtis Major are interpreted to be consistent with a gravitational collapse of the southeastern sector of Syrtis Major. Recently a model has been proposed to explain the low elevation of the Isidis rim in the Syrtis Major region [e.g., Tanaka et al., 2002]. This model calls on catastrophic erosion of the rim that is triggered by the emplacement of sills, which interacted with a volatile-rich substrate. We used MOLA data from nearby terrains of the Isidis rim to investigate the Isidis rim in locations where it has supposedly been eroded. On the basis of our investigation we conclude that the smooth morphology and relatively low topography of the Isidis rim in the Syrtis Major region can be best explained by initial heterogeneities in topography and flooding with lavas, together with some erosion and/or tectonic modification of the original rim. New crater counts show that Syrtis Major is of Early Hesperian age (N(5) = 154), older than in the geologic map of Greeley and Guest [1987]. On the basis of inspection of all available Mars Orbiter Camera (MOC) images we identified several terrain types and developed a stratigraphic sequence for Syrtis Major. Large-scale erosional modification (e.g., deflation) of the Syrtis Major lavas and/or tephra deposits and redistribution of eolian material are evident in numerous MOC images.
The bounds of Falk and Bruch in the low temperature Van Der Waals model

Abstract For many-body systems, the susceptibility and the fluctuation in the long-range order can be different. There are bounds on the ratio of the susceptibility to the fluctuation due to Falk and Bruch, according to which the two correlation functions cannot be entirely independent. For the spin van der Waals model, we obtain exact expressions for the susceptibility and fluctuation in the low temperature region. We find that the susceptibility and fluctuation are the same in the XY-like regime of the model but they are different in the Ising-like regime. In both cases the bounds do not merge. Thus, the bounds alone are not sufficient to explain the relative behavior of the susceptibility and fluctuation.
Enhancement of the ESDIAD method for imaging bond directionality in chemisorbed species

Abstract The ESDIAD method for imaging adsorbate bond directions by photographic observation of positive ion angular distributions during electron stimulated desorption suffers from inherent low contrast due to background effects. The use of a digital acquisition system designed to overcome this difficulty in ESDIAD measurement is presented. Measurements on a Ni(110) single crystal substrate show the presence of a significant background signal due to soft X-ray generation by electron impact. By subtraction of the background signal, a significant enhancement of positive ion signal-to-noise ratio is achieved in ESDIAD, converting the ESDIAD method into a high contrast, high resolution surface measurement technique. Quantitative studies of the soft X-ray background have shown it to be linearly dependent on electron current density and electron energy, with no change in angular shape. These properties permit an accurate background subtraction procedure to be employed to significant;y enhance the capability of the ESDIAD method.
The synthesis of isoprenoid (phosphinylmethyl)phosphonates

Abstract A synthetic route to isoprenoid (phosphinylmethyl)phosphonates (PMPs), stable analogues of the biologically important diphosphates, is described. This method involves the reaction of an α-phosphonate carbanion with an isoprenoid phosphonochloridate to provide the PMP triesters, followed by ester cleavage with TMSBr or TMSI. 13C NMR, 31P NMR, 19F NMR and FAB-MS data were employed for the characterization of PMP salts and triesters.