cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Universal Compression Index Equation

An expression is developed empirically which relates virgin compression index with instantaneous zero-air-voids curve slope, and which is applicable to saturated sedimented fine grain soils of a given value of specific gravity regardless of stress history. It is based on: (1)The assertion that field consolidation curves are relatively parallel for a given value of void ratio; and (2)on the fact that the consolidation processes of saturated fine-grain soils having the same specific gravity can be characterized by a single zero-air-voids curve. Consolidation test data, which were used to develop the expression, were obtained from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers district and division offices in the United States. An experiment is currently underway using a slurry-consolidometer to obtain field consolidation test results on pure clay specimens, the data of which is hoped will yield a more accurate expression for compression index.
Two sites of action for synapsin domain E in regulating neurotransmitter release

Synapsins, a family of synaptic vesicle proteins, have been shown to regulate neurotransmitter release; the mechanism(s) by which they act are not fully understood. Here we have studied the role of domain E of synapsins in neurotransmitter release at the squid giant synapse. Two squid synapsin isoforms were cloned and found to contain a carboxy (C)-terminal domain homologous to domain E of the vertebrate a-type synapsin isoforms. Presynaptic injection of a peptide fragment of domain E greatly reduced the number of synaptic vesicles in the periphery of the active zone, and increased the rate and extent of synaptic depression, suggesting that domain E is essential for synapsins to regulate a reserve pool of synaptic vesicles. Domain E peptide had no effect on the number of docked synaptic vesicles, yet reversibly inhibited and slowed the kinetics of neurotransmitter release, indicating a second role for synapsins that is more intimately associated with the release process itself. Thus, synapsin domain E is involved in at least two distinct reactions that are crucial for exocytosis in presynaptic terminals.
The Silliest Rule of Professional Conduct: Model Rule 5.2(b)

Rule 5.2(b) provides that a subordinate attorney should not be disciplined for her conduct as long as she has complied with “a supervisory lawyer's reasonable resolution of an arguable question of professional duty.” This short essay contends that the rule confers few, if any, tangible benefits and has some potentially significant costs. In particular, the Rule applies in so few cases that it is difficult to construct a suitable hypothetical to which it would apply. And in cases where the Rule might apply, it is hard to see why a subordinate should escape liability for following unethical instructions. Finally, the Rule produces substantial costs by giving subordinate attorneys a justification to defer to authority figures in situations that warrant forceful dissent. With this lopsided cost/benefit analysis, Model Rule 5.2(b) deserves deletion.
Evolutionary algorithm for multiresolutional conceptual learning

An effort is made to show how evolutionary algorithms (EA) can be applied within the domain of learning control systems with multiresolutional representation.
Rare earths in the Leadville Limestone and its marble derivates

Abstract Samples of unaltered and metamorphosed Leadville Limestone (Mississippian, Colorado) were analyzed by neutron activation for ten rare-earth elements (REE). The total abundance of the REE in the least-altered limestone is 4–12 ppm, and their distribution patterns are believed to be dominated by the carbonate minerals. The abundances of the REE in the marbles and their sedimentary precursors are comparable, but the distribution patterns are not. Eu is enriched over the other REE in the marbles, and stratigraphically upward in the formation (samples located progressively further from the heat source), the light REE become less enriched relative to the heavy REE. The Eu anomaly is attributed to its ability, unique among the REE, to change from the 3+ to 2+ oxidation state. Whether this results in preferential mobilization of the other REE or whether this reflects the composition of the pore fluid during metamorphism is unknown. Stratigraphically selective depletion of the heavy REE may be attributed to more competition for the REE between fluid and carbonate minerals in the lower strata relative to the upper strata. This competition could have been caused by changes in the temperature of the pore fluid or to the greater resistance to solution of the dolomite in the lower parts of the formation than the calcite in the upper parts.
Intercalative drug binding to DNA

Abstract Intercalator drugs are important in the treatment of cancers. The molecular interactions between them and DNA have been studied by X-ray diffraction and NMR. Some important examples include anthracycline antibiotics (e.g. daunorubicin, doxorubicin, nogalamycin and their derivatives) and bis-intercalator antibiotics (e.g. triostin, echinomycin and luzopeptin). Anthracyclines induce a small degree of helix unwinding but large buckles in base pairs flanking the intercalator ring. Daunorubicin and doxorubicin can be crosslinked to DNA efficiently by formaldehyde. Several structures reported during the past year are discussed.
Retreatment of Helicobacter pylori infection after initial treatment failure.

Abstract OBJECTIVES: Helicobacter pylori treatment regimens fail to cure the infection in at least 10–20% of patients undergoing initial treatment. Retreatment strategies for patients who have failed initial treatment for H. pylori infection remain poorly described. METHODS: The literature describing the frequency of H. pylori treatment failure and factors leading to failure is reviewed. The role of antibiotic resistance is discussed and clinical studies assessing success rates according to antibiotic resistance are described. Clinical trials evaluating the treatment success rates for a second episode of treatment are discussed. RESULTS: The literature describing retreatment of failed H. pylori infection remains limited. The existing data support the use of bismuth-based quadruple therapy or ranitidine bismuth citrate (RBC)–based triple therapy as the preferred agents after initial treatment failure. CONCLUSION: Further studies are needed to better define the optimal second treatment regimen after failed H. pylori treatment.
Preparation and mechanical properties of thick interlayer composites

A technique is described for producing a thick interlayer composite material composed of an epoxy resin as the matrix and an acrylic-coated fiberglass filler. Through the use of electrostatic forces, the fibers are encapsulated with a controlled, uniform layer(s) of the rubbery acrylic polymer. This coating is then crosslinked. These fibers are subsequently placed into the epoxy matrix, whereby the interfacial properties of the composite become modified. Rapid diffusion of the resin and curing agent results in an interpenetrating network being formed at the glass-epoxy interface. The placement of a uniform latex coating on the fiberglass surface results in improvements in the mechanical properties of the composite. Increases in damping, impact strength, and tensile properties are described.
Health communication during SARS.

During the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak, electronic media made it possible to disseminate prevention messages rapidly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health Web site was frequently visited in the first half of 2003; more than 2.6 million visits were made to travel alerts, advisories, and other SARS-related documents.
SERUM HYPERVISCOSITY SYNDROME.

The hyperviscosity syndrome commonly includes mucous membrane bleeding, retinopathy and loss of vision, and neurological disorders associated with elevated serum viscosity. These changes can be lethal. Hyperviscosity, however, can be relieved by adequate plasmapheresis, and recognition of the hyperviscosity syndrome is important for the institution of the proper therapy. The association of elevated serum viscosity with marked hypergammaglobulinemia has been recognized for more than 30 years. Between 1932 and 1937 Reismann,1Magnus-Levy,2and Albers3reported increased serum viscosity in several patients with multiple myeloma. In 1944 Waldenstrom described an elevated serum viscosity in patients with macroglobulinemia.4These findings have been extended in recent years by the delineation of a group of clinical symptoms attributable to increased viscosity of the blood.5-10 The hyperviscosity syndrome is frequently seen in patients with macroglobulinemia, with or without demonstrable lymphoma, but only rarely with multiple myeloma. Manifestations of the hyperviscosity
Using Critical Incidents To Model Effective Evaluation Practice in the Teaching of Evaluation.

Abstract In this essay, I discuss the importance of modeling effective evaluation practice as we teach others about program evaluation. Over the last few years I have experimented with using a tool and process called “critical incidents” in my graduate program evaluation courses. This activity asks students each week to reflect on their reactions to, and learning from the course, by responding to a set of evaluative questions. The students' cumulative responses to these questions demonstrated increased understanding of key evaluation concepts and an appreciation for their own and others' learning styles. The approach confirmed the importance of modeling formative evaluation throughout a course as a way to teach about evaluation practice.
2′-Phospho-Cyclic ADP-ribose, a Calcium-mobilizing Agent Derived from NADP

Cyclic adenosine diphosphoribose (cADPR), a metabolite of NAD, appears to modulate changes in intracellular free Ca2+ levels by activation of ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ channels. We report here that an ADPR cyclase purified from Aplysia californica readily catalyzes the conversion of NADP to 2′-phospho-cyclic adenosine diphosphoribose (2′-P-cADPR), cyclized at N-1 of the adenine moiety. An enzyme from canine spleen previously shown to contain NAD glycohydrolase, ADPR cyclase, and cADPR hydrolase activities also utilized NADP and 2′-P-cADPR as substrates. The apparent Km value for NADP was 1.6 μM compared with 9.9 μM for NAD, and the Vmax with NADP was twice that with NAD, indicating that 2′-P-cADPR is a likely metabolite in mammalian cells. 2′-P-cADPR was as active as cADPR in eliciting Ca2+ release from rat brain microsomes, but was unable to elicit Ca2+ release following conversion to 2′-P-ADPR by the action of canine spleen NAD glycohydrolase. 2′-P-cADPR and 1-D-myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) appear to act by distinct mechanisms as microsomes desensitized to IP3 still released Ca2+ in response to 2′-P-cADPR and vice versa. Also, inhibition of IP3-induced Ca2+ release by heparin had no effect on release by 2′-P-cADPR. Both 2′-P-cADPR and cADPR appear to act by a similar mechanism based on similar kinetics of Ca2+ release, similar dose-response curves, cross-desensitization, and partial inhibition of release by procaine. The results of this study suggest that 2′-P-cADPR may function as a new component of Ca2+ signaling and a possible link between NADP metabolism and Ca2+ homeostasis.
Review of Scott McClintock and John Miller (eds), Pynchon’s California (Iowa: University of Iowa Press, 2014).

Book review of Scott McClintock and John Miller (eds), Pynchon’s California (Iowa: University of Iowa Press, 2014).
Multiple comparisons, interaction effects, and statistical inference: Lessons from chronic kidney disease progression among blacks

A post hoc analysis of a randomized trial comparing progression of chronic kidney disease among blacks and non-blacks provides an opportunity to explore statistical inference. Multiple comparisons without penalizing the P-value can lead to false positive results; this is illustrated using simulation. Tests of statistical interaction are then applied and interpreted to understand effect modification (or lack thereof) in the context of this trial.
Willingness of the United States general public to participate in kidney paired donation

Background Availability of kidney paired donation (KPD) is increasing in the United States, and a national system through UNOS is forthcoming. However, little is known about attitudes toward KPD among the general public, from which donors (particularly non-directed) are drawn. Methods In a national study, we assessed the public's attitudes regarding participation in KPD. Results Among 845 randomly selected participants, 85.2% of respondents were either “extremely willing” or “very willing” to participate in KPD. Experiences with the medical or organ transplant systems, such as undergoing surgery, having a primary medical provider, a living will, a friend who donated or received an organ, and considering donation after death, were associated with increased willingness. However, increased age, male sex, African American race, Hispanic ethnicity, distrust of the medical system, and not understanding organ allocation were associated with less willingness. Conclusions We identify strong support for KPD but some important potential barriers to participation which should be considered as KPD programs are implemented.
Teaching ethics across the public relations curriculum

Abstract This article suggests ways of incorporating ethics across the undergraduate public relations curriculum. Ethics is discussed in numerous textbooks for a variety of public relations courses. The most concentrated and comprehensive discussion of ethics occurs primarily in public relations principles texts. This article will review current coverage of ethics in public relations principles, public relations writing, cases in public relations and public relations campaigns textbooks, identify current pedagogical strategies and suggest other methods that teachers can use to incorporate ethical pedagogical tools in all public relations courses in an effort to develop students’ ethical awareness and to improve their skills in ethical decision-making.
Radiation damage in the Chandra x-ray CCDs

Front side illuminated CCDs comprising focal plane of Chandra X-ray telescope have suffered some radiation damage in the beginning of the mission. Measurements of CTI and dark current at different temperatures led us to conclusion that the type of damage is inconsistent with the much studied type of damage created by protons with energies higher than 10 MeV. Intensive ground based investigation showed that irradiation of CCD with low energy protons (about 100 keV) results in the device characteristics very similar to the ones of the flight chips (very low dark current, the shape of the CTI temperature dependence). We were able to reliably determine that only image section of the flight chips was damaged and therefore only fast transfer from image to frame store section was affected. We have developed several techniques in order to determine the parameters of the electron traps introduced into the transfer channel of the irradiated device.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Quinine and quinidine inhibition of pentobarbital metabolism

Abstract The influence of quinine hydrochloride pretreatment on pentobarbital metabolism was assessed by measurements of sleeping times, ld 50 values, hepatic microsomal metabolism and relative rates of decay of plasma levels of pentobarbital. These studies were conducted in Swiss-Webster mice, Sprague-Dawley rats and Angora or Toggenburg goats. Quinine increased sleeping time in phenobarbitalstimulated and unstimulated mice and in rats, decreased the ld 50 of pentobarbital in mice, and increased the plasma half-life of pentobarbital in goats. Quinine in various concentrations inhibited the hepatic metabolism of pentobarbital in 9000 g supernatant incubation mixtures (KI = 2.9 × 10−5 M), as did quinidine (KI = 7.6 × 10−6 M). Duration of barbital hypnosis was not affected by quinine pretreatment. The presence of quinine in plasma decreased the extent of protein binding of pentobarbital m plasma from humans, ponies, swine, goats and mice. The pentobarbital concentration in brains from quinine-pretreated mice was not significantly different from the concentration in brains from control animals at awakening. The results obtained from these experiments indicate that quinine and quinidine alter the duration of action of pentobarbital by inhibition of microsomal enzymes.
Chronic renal failure after liver transplantation.

It is well recognized that patients with advanced liver disease can develop hepatorenal syndrome, which usually is seen prior to liver transplantation and is characterized by acute renal failure, preserved capacity to concentrate urine, low urinary sodium and the absence of pathologic changes in the kidney. During the past two decades, it has become clear that these patients are also at increased risk for chronic renal failure, and this generally occurs after liver transplantation. The clinical picture is characterized by reduction of glomerular filtration rate, hypertension, proteinuria and unremarkable urinary sediment. The cumulative incidence of severe chronic renal failure, defined as a glomerular filtration rate of less than 30 mL/min per 1.73 square meters body surface area, reaches 13.9 % after a median follow-up of 36 months (1). The incidence of less severe forms of renal dysfunction is probably many times higher than this estimate. Known risk factors for development of chronic renal failure after extrarenal transplantation include age, male sex, Asian race, diabetes mellitus, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and the presence or pre-transplant renal disease, as manifested by a reduced glomerular filtration rate or hypertension.
Mast cells in cutaneous mastocytosis: accumulation of the MCTC type.

Summary Lesional (n= 15) and non-lesional (n= 10) skin of subjects with mastocytosis was analysed for the distribution and concentration of trypase positive, chymase negative mast cells (MCT) and tryptase positive, chymase positive mast cells (MCTC) cells and compared to normal skin (n= 23) and non-lesional skin of subjects with unexplained anaphylaxis or flushing episodes (n= 6). Skin biopsies were fixed in Carney's fluid and subjected to double immunohistochemical staining with biotinylated mouse monoclonal anti-chymase antibody followed by alkaline phosphatase-conjugated mouse monoclonal anti-tryptase antibody. MCTC cells were the only type of mast cells seen in all specimens analysed and in each case were more numerous in superficial compared to deep regions of dermis. The concentration (mean ± s.d.) of mast cells in the superficial dermis of mastocytosis lesions (40985 ± 21772 mast cells/mm3) was significantly increased over that in corresponding areas of non-lesional skin from subjects with mastocytosis (7178 ± 3607 mast cells/mm3), skin from subjects with idiopathic anaphylaxis or flushing episodes (6974 ± 3873 mast cells/mm3) and normal skin (7347 ± 2973 mast cells/mm3). The exclusive presence of MCTC cells in skin lesions of mastocytosis which are characterized by non-malignant hyperplasia of mast cells suggests involvement of local tissue factors in mast cell recruitment and differentiation.
Complications associated with intraperitoneal chemotherapy catheters.

Abstract Purpose. The goal of this work was to determine the complication rate and any predisposing risk factors associated with subcutaneous intraperitoneal (ip) catheters used in the treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 301 patients who had a subcutaneous Bardport catheter placed for administration of ip chemotherapy at Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) from December 1989 to May 1997. Results. Thirty (10%) patients were identified as having catheter-related complications, with 19 (6.3%) experiencing inflow obstruction and 11 (3.6%) experiencing infection. Only 21 of 301 (7%) required cessation of chemotherapy prior to its expected completion, with 14 (4.6%) occurring in the malfunction group and 7 (2.3%) in the infection group. Three hundred thirteen patients received an ip catheter; however, 12 patients who received their ip chemotherapy elsewhere were excluded when determining the complication rate. Overall, 218 of 313 (69.6%) catheters were placed at the time of laparotomy, 61 of 313 (19.5%) catheters were placed at the time of laparoscopy, and 34 of 313 (10.9%) were placed as a separate procedure. In the malfunction group, 18 of 19 (94.7%) patients had their catheters placed at the time of laparotomy, none were placed at the time of laparoscopy, and 1 of 19 (5.3%) was placed as a separate procedure. In the infection group, 8 of 11 (72.7%) catheters were placed at laparotomy, 2 of 11 (18.3%) were placed at the time of laparoscopy, and 1 of 11 (9.0%) was placed as a separate procedure. Complications occurred in 3 of 54 (5.5%) patients who received platinum alone, 11 of 134 (8.2%) who received platinum in combination, 2 of 43 (4.7%) who received paclitaxel alone, 13 of 61 (21.3%) who received mitoxantrone alone or in combination, and 1 of 9 (11.1%) who received other regimens. Conclusion. Subcutaneous ip catheters are associated with a lower rate of catheter-related complications than previously reported, perhaps due in part to both avoiding insertion of ip catheters at the time of bowel surgery and placing ip catheters at the time of laparoscopy.
Negative regulation of the glycoprotein hormone α gene promoter by thyroid hormone : mutagenesis of a proximal receptor binding site preserves transcriptional repression

Abstract Transcription of the glycoprotein hormone α gene is repressed by the thyroid hormone receptor (TR) in a hormone dependent manner. Previous studies identified a TR binding site immediately downstream of the TATA box. Site directed mutagenesis and transient gene expression studies were used to evaluate the role of this TR binding site as a negative thyroid response element (nTRE). Mutagenesis of the putative negative thyroid response element (nTRE) site eliminated TR binding but failed to eliminate negative regulation by T3. A mutation which converted the putative nTRE to a higher affinity palindromic element did not enhance repression, but rather eliminated thyroid hormone dependent negative regulation. Proximal α promoter sequences between −100 and + 44 were replaced with a heterologous thymidine kinase promoter resulting in a construct that was not repressed by T3 treatment. This finding confirmed that repression required proximal α promoter sequences and also indicated that repression did not occur by interference with the function of upstream the α gene enhancers. These studies indicate that TR binding adjacent to the TATA box is not required for T3 mediated repression of the α promoter and suggest that negative regulation may involve protein-protein interactions with promoter-specific transcription factors.
The contribution of prostaglandins to renal blood flow maintenance is determined by the level of activity of the renin-angiotensin system.

Abstract A growing body of experimental and clinical evidence has led to the formation of the hypothesis that the contribution of intrarenal prostaglandins to the determination of renal blood flow is a function of the level of activity of renin-angiotensin system. The following is a brief review of a portion of the pertinent literature. The focus of this review is the effect of inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis on renal blood flow in diverse conditions characterized by increased activity of the renin-angiotensin system, including reduction of renal arterial pressure, ureteral obstruction, hemorrhage, the hepatorenal syndrome, and sodium depletion. Under these conditions, in contrast to the lack of effect in non-stress conditions, the renin-angiotensin system activity is high, and prostaglandin synthesis inhibition is associated with reductions in renal blood flow.
Intersubject and intrasubject variability in the consumption of alcohol

Ad lib alcohol selection level was shown to remain quite stable within individual rats during 26 weeks of access to 6% EtOH and water. Intersubject variability was high and did not alter systematically over time. The results were taken as contradictory to the hypothesis that history of exposure to, or consumption of alcohol affects the subsequent level of alcohol consumption, but to indicate that pre-experimental variables strongly affect consumption rate.
Inconsistencies in genetic counseling and screening for consanguineous couples and their offspring: The need for practice guidelines

Purpose: To determine current practices of genetic counseling and screening for consanguineous couples, their pregnancies and children, and to compare these practices to recommendations in the literature. Methods: A questionnaire was mailed to 1582 board certified genetic counselors and medical geneticists in the United States. Results: The return rate was 20% (n = 309). There was wide variation in the risk figures quoted to consanguineous couples to have offspring with birth defects and mental retardations (1 to 75 for incest between first-degree relatives, and 0.25 to 20% for first cousin unions). Suggested screening practices differed for consanguineous unions before conception, during pregnancy, following birth, and for children placed for adoption. Most respondents recommended screening based on ethnicity, yet disagreed as to which genetic disorders to include. Conclusions: To standardize genetic services, guidelines for screening the offspring of consanguineous unions are needed. A consensus should be reached as to the empirical risks for genetic disorders, birth defects, and mental retardation that may impair the offspring of consanguineous unions, with definitions as to what these disorders are, and if the data applies to global populations. Guidelines should consider costs, the sensitivity and specificity of DNA and biochemical testing, and current practices of prenatal and newborn screening. Consideration should be given to screening based on ethnicity, particularly in populations where consanguineous unions are common, while remaining sensitive to cultural belief systems. Recommendations for screening healthy children from consanguineous unions to be placed for adoption pose ethical challenges.
Retrospect and prospect. Ruminations after the first decade of the Surgical Infection Society.

I want to thank the members of the Surgical Infection Society for the trust and honor accorded me through election as President of the Society. The approbation of one's peers truly is the ultimate accolade, and I am grateful both for that boon and for the opportunity to guide the activities of the Surgical Infection Society as it continues to contribute to the body of scientific knowledge and thus to improve the care of our patients. The Society has just completed its first decade. This is an important milestone. It is most appropriate that we meet here in Cincinnati, the home of our founder, William A. Altemeier, MD, and take a look at our accomplishments as well as to try to set an agenda for the future. The Society has successfully completed its infancy and childhood. We are alive and well. We have gained acceptance as a society from our
Rifampicin supersensitivity of rho strains of E. coli, and suppression by sur mutation.

Escherichia coli strains with mutations rho-115, rho-ts15, rho-101 (psu-1) or rho-102 (psu-2) are more sensitive (“supersensitive”) to rifampicin than isogenic parent strains, as measured by growth rate in broth and colony forming efficiency on solid media with 5, 10, or 20 μg of rifampicin per ml. There is no change in sensitivity of rho mutants to the antibiotics penicillin, erythromycin, chloramphenicol, or the detergent desoxycholate. The rho-101 or rho-102 mutations confer rifampicin supersensitivity at 32°C but not 42°C. Mutants of a rho-115 strain that have lost polarity suppression can be isolated by selection for rifampicin resistance. This phenotype, Sur, is not due to reversion of the original rho gene mutation but to a second mutation perhaps in the gene for rho protein or the gene for the β subunit of RNA polymerase. One class of Sur mutation, occurring in rho-115 cells isolated as resistant to 20 μg of rifampicin per ml, is co-transducible with the marker ilv, and the gene order is rbs-ilv-sur-38. A model suggested by this map position is that the mutations rho-115 and sur-38 define the domain of rho protein which interacts with the β subunit of RNA polymerase.
Serum angiotensin converting enzyme in patients with Crohn's disease.

Abstract Serum angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) levels were determined in 24 patients with Crohn's disease. Serum ACE was lower than normal (P
Self-Concept: A Function of Self-Perceived Somatotype

The Tennessee Self-concept Scale was employed to assess multiple dimensions of self-concept in 284 college males; the Perceived Somatotype Scale was used to assess three indices of somatotype. MANOVA revealed significant differences in global self-concept among the self-perceived somatotype (PSS), the perceived-ideal somatotype (PSI), and the self-ideal discrepancy (PSD) groups. Univariate analyses indicated that the PSS groups differed significantly in all but the Moral-Ethical dimension of self-concept, while no univariate self-concept differences were found among the PSI groups. The PSD groups differed markedly on all but the Moral-Ethical and Family Self subscales. The assertion that somatotype affords little psychological predictive utility needs amendment in light of the findings of the present study.
Design and perception testing of a novel 3D autostereoscopic holographic display system

U.S. Army Tank-Automotive Command (TACOM) researchers are in the early stages of developing an autostereoscopic, 3-D holographic visual display system. The present system uses holographic optics, low and high-resolution projectors, and computer workstation graphics to achieve real-time, 3-D user-interactivity. This system is being used to conduct 3-D visual perception studies for the purpose of understanding the effects of 3-D in military target visual detection and as an alternative technique to CAD model visualization. The authors describe the present system configuration, operation, some of the technical limitations encountered during the system development, and the results of a human perception test that compared subject response times, hit rates and miss rates of visual detection when subjects used conventional 2-D methods versus the 3-D holographic image produced by the holographic display system. The results of this study revealed that 3D HOE system increased the perception of accuracy of moving vehicles. This research has provided some insights into which technology will be the best for presenting 3-D simulated objects to subjects or designers in the laboratory.
Predictor of p-type doping in II-VI semiconductors

The structure for the ground state of the AX deep acceptor center in II-VI semiconductors is identified and the sign of its formation energy is found to be a reliable indicator of p-type dopability. Results from ab initio total-energy calculations on ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, and CdTe doped with N, P, As, or Sb show that the tendency for deep center AX formation arising from large-lattice-relaxation is strongly correlated with dopant inactivity in II-VI semiconductors.
A novel active vibration absorption technique : delayed resonator

A new concept of active vibration absorption for dynamic structures is presented. This new methodology, delayed resonator, originates from a proportional position feedback excitation utilized on an otherwise conventional mass-spring-damper absorber. The critical feature of the technique is utilization of a controlled time delay in the feedback loop, which is traditionally looked upon as an undesirable element in dynamic controls. The proper selection of this delay and feedback gain converts the absorber into a resonator at a desired absorption frequency—hence the name delayed resonator. Two features which make this technique unique and superior to the other state-of-the-art vibration suppression methodologies are that: (a) it removes oscillations of the primary structure for a very wide range of frequencies and (b) the tuning of the absorber is done in real time. This paper lays out the theoretical foundations for the delayed resonator and explains the control decision process for the delay and gain. Dynamic stability issues are also discussed. Simulations are presented proving the strength of the concept, and remarks on avenues for future research are given.
Unique Estrogen-Binding Properties of Rat Pregnancy Plasma

Estrone and estradiol-17β were shown to displace 3H-estradiol-17β from binding sites in plasma of the pregnant rat. The ligand specificity of this plasma differed from that of human pregnancy plasma. In the rat preparation, neither testosterone nor estradiol-17α competed with 3H-estradiol-17β, while estrone and estradiol-17β were equivalent in this activity. With plasma from nonpregnant rats, the binding of radioactive hormone was not affected by increasing amounts of nonradioactive estradiol- 17β. The binding specificity of rat pregnancy plasma was dissimilar to that of estrophilic substances of rat uterine cytosol. With uterine receptor, certain synthetic estrogens and antiuterotrophic agents competed with 3H-estradiol- 17β for affinity sites. However, these compounds were not effective in altering the binding of isotope by rat pregnancy plasma. The present observations demonstrate that rat pregnancy plasma contains an entity or entities which bind estrone and estradiol-17β, and that estrogenic or anti-...
Separation and analysis of aerosol sulfate species at ambient concentrations

Sampling and analysis techniques appropriate for the determination of the chemical composition of sulfate in aerosol particles are described. These techniques are applied to the speciation of sulfate in ambient air-borne particles with time resolution of one hour or less and with size discrimination in the size range below 0.25 μm. Initial East Coast data are reported indicating the dominance of sulfuric acid and its ammonianeutralization products in ambient sulfate-containing particles. Data from a comparison study of several analytical techniques for aerosol sulfate and related species are highly correlated. Diffusion sampling experiments for size-segregated chemical composition determination indicate that 12 of airborne sulfate is in particles <0.3 μm dia. Hourly variations in sulfate chemical composition at 3 RAMS sites in and near St. Louis, MO. are documented for a one-day intensive experiment and are correlated with air-mass backward trajectories and area primary sources.
The role of lattice vacancies in phase transformations of binary alloys

Abstract It is suggested that the vacancy concentration corresponding to a given structural transformation in a binary alloy may be a constant which is independent of the type of solute.
If You Build It Will They Come?: Developing Accessible and Useful Websites for Hospitality Management Graduate Programs

Rushing to establish a presence on the World Wide Web, many hospitality management graduate programs have failed to develop websites that are both accessible to and useful for potential users–largely, potential graduate students. Therefore, this paper presents the development and testing of an evaluation tool for hospitality management graduate programs' websites and offers suggestions for improving these websites. The tool consists of an anchored rating scale of six criteria: accessibility, segmentation, positioning, design, content, and interactivity. Through content analysis, the tool is used to rate 30 hospitality management graduate programs' websites.
Homeodomain Interaction with the β Subunit of the General Transcription Factor TFIIE

Homeodomain-containing proteins play a crucial role as transcriptional regulators in the process of cell differentiation. The homeodomain performs a dual function in this regard, acting as a DNA binding domain and participating in protein-protein interactions that enhance DNA binding specificity or regulatory activity. Here we describe a homeodomain class-specific interaction with the β subunit of the general transcription factor TFIIE. We show that the Antennapedia and Abdominal-B homeodomains bind to TFIIEβ, but the even-skipped homeodomain does not. Using a two-hybrid assay performed in cultured cells, we demonstrate that the homeodomain-TFIIEβ interaction occurs in vivo. The Abdominal-B homeodomain is shown to activate transcription in vitro, and this activation can be blocked with anti-TFIIEβ antibody without affecting basal transcription levels. Together with published data demonstrating an interaction between proteins containing even-skipped class homeodomains and the TATA-binding protein (Um, M., Li, C., and Manley, J. L. (1995) Mol. Cell. Biol. 15, 5007-5016; Zhang, H., Catron, K. M., and Abate-Shen, C. (1996) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 93, 1764-1769), these results suggest various homeodomain containing proteins interact with different general transcription factors, an observation that may have important implications for transcriptional regulation.
Molar absorptivities of glucose and other biological molecules in aqueous solutions over the first overtone and combination regions of the near-infrared spectrum

Molar absorptivities are measured for water, glucose, alanine, ascorbate, lactate, triacetin, and urea in the near-infrared spectral region at 37 degrees C. Values are based on the Beer-Lambert law and cover the first overtone (1550-1850 nm; 6450-5400 cm(-1)) and combination (2000-2500 nm; 4000-5000 cm(-1)) spectral windows through aqueous media. Accurate calculations demand accounting for the impact of water displacement upon dissolution of solute. In this regard, water displacement coefficients are measured and reported for each solute. First overtone absorptivities range from 2 to 7 x 10(-5) mM(-1)mm(-1) for all solutes except urea, for which absorptivity values are below 0.5 x 10(-5) mM(-1) mm(-1) across this spectral range. Molar absorptivities over the combination spectral region range from 0.8 to 3.2 x 10(-4) mM(-1) mm(-1), which is a factor of four to five greater than the first overtone absorptivities. Accuracy of the measured values is assessed by comparing calculated or modeled spectra with spectra measured from standard solutions. This comparison reveals accurately modeled spectra in terms of magnitude and position of solute absorption bands. Both actual and modeled spectra from glucose solutions reveal positive and negative absorbance values depending on the measurement wavelength. It is shown that the net absorbance of light is controlled by the magnitude of the absorptivity of glucose compared to the product of the absorptivity of water and the water displacement coefficient for glucose.
A hexameric form of the Neurospora crassa plasma membrane H+-ATPase

As isolated by our recently developed large-scale procedure, the Neurospora plasma membrane H+-ATPase exists as a homogeneous, oligomeric complex of 105,000-Da monomers with a molecular mass equivalent to a spherical protein of about 1 million Da, as judged by its behavior during chromatography on calibrated columns of Sepharose CL-6B and CL-4B. Treatment of this complex with the nonionic detergent, Tween 20, followed by Sepharose column chromatography in the presence of this detergent produces particles with an apparent molecular mass reduced by 100-300 kDa, and, importantly, when the isolated complex is treated with Tween 20 and then subjected to Sepharose chromatography in the absence of detergent, fully viable, largely detergent-free, homogeneous particles with a molecular mass equivalent to a spherical protein of 670,000 Da are formed. As assessed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, treatment of the particles isolated in the presence of Tween 20 with glutaraldehyde progressively yields dimers, trimers, tetramers, pentamers, and hexamers of the 105,000-Da monomer, with the expected precursor-product relationships, but no species larger than a hexamer is formed. These results thus strongly indicate that these particles are hexamers of 105,000-Da monomers. Glutaraldehyde crosslinking experiments with the ca. 1 million- and 670,000-Da particles indicate that they too are hexamers, suggesting that the differences in the apparent sizes of the three types of particles are most likely due to bound detergents. Possible implications of these findings are discussed.
Drug-Related and Economic Crime Among Unauthorized Latino Immigrant and Other Arrestees in California

Abstract This paper employs 1994-1996 California Drug Use Forecasting (CALDUF) and 1994 Los Angeles County Mexican Immigrant Residency Status Survey (LAC-MIRSS) data to estimate the level and determinants of drug-related and economic crime among unauthorized Latino immigrant and other arrestees in California. Controlling for various potential individual, contextual and geographic determinants, logistic regression results suggest the use of illicit drugs, having entered the United States more recently and residing in a home without paying any rent or mortgage positively-and residing in a home where another is dependent on an illegal substance negatively-influenced being apprehended for a drug-related crime. Although being an unauthorized Latino resident also had no effect on having been arrested for an economic crime, U.S.-born blacks and Latinos as well as non-Latino immigrants were each more likely than non-Latino U.S.-born whites to be arrested, as were younger females. Working full time and depending o...
Small linearly equivalent G-sets and a construction of Beaulieu

Abstract Two G-sets (G a finite group) are called linearly equivalent over a commutative ring k if the permutation representations k [ X ] and k [ Y ] are isomorphic as modules over the group algebra kG. Pairs of linearly equivalent non-isomorphic G-sets have applications in number theory and geometry. We characterize the groups G for which such pairs exist for any field, and give a simple construction of these pairs. If k is Q , these are precisely the non-cyclic groups. For any non-cyclic group, we prove that there exist G-sets which are non-isomorphic and linearly equivalent over Q , of cardinality ⩽ 3 ( # G ) / 2 . Also, we investigate a construction of P. Beaulieu which allows us to construct pairs of transitive linearly equivalent S n -sets from arbitrary G-sets for an arbitrary group G. We show that this construction works over all fields and use it construct, for each finite set P of primes, S n -sets linearly equivalent over a field k if and only if the characteristic of k lies in P .
Evidence in support of first-order dissolution kinetics of calcite in seawater

Abstract Re-examination of an experimental determination of the dissolution rate of reagent-grade calcite in seawater shows that the original conclusion of rate law with 4.5-order dependence on undersaturation was very sensitive to uncertainties in the saturation state of the seawater with respect to calcite,ΩC. In particular, use of an erroneously high value of the calcite stoichiometric solubility product generated correspondingly low values of the saturation state. Extrapolation of the experimental measurements to a rate of zero dissolution indicates that the calcite solubility was about 20% lower than that used in the original study, similar to more recent estimates. If the lower solubity is used for recalulation of the experimental saturation states, the dissolution rate Rd,C (% day−1) is adequately described by the rate experssion: Rd, C = 38(1−omega;C)1 In situ measurements of pH in the pore waters of calcite-rich sea floor sediments are more consistent with first-order kinetics than with 4.5-order kinetics. Interpretation of pore water pH data using the 4.5-order rate expression requires dissolution rate constants that are different by at least two orders of magnitude and stoichiometric calcite solubility products that are different by several percent between two otherwise similar sites. Application of the first-order dissolution reduces the variability in the rate constant to less than one order of magnitude, and all in situ observations are consistent with a single estimate of calcite solubility. First-order kinetics do not reduce the discrepancy between the laboratory determined rate constants and those based on pore water measurements. Dissolution rate constants constrained by the in situ pH measurements are at least two orders of magnitude less than the laboratory results.
THE ACTION OF ESTRADIOL, PROGESTERONE AND TESTOSTERONE ON THE CONTRACTIONS OF THE HUMAN UTERUS

IN A PREVIOUS publication the contractility of the intact human uterus during the normal menstrual cycle and in various functional menstrual disorders was dc scribed (1). The contractions were recorded by the intra-uterine balloon method. It was demonstrated that during the follicular phase the contractions are of small amplitude, short duration and frequent occurrence while in the luteal phase they are large, prolonged and less frequent. It was possible to reproduce the myometrial cycle in a woman (whose ovaries were not functioning) by administering the appropriate ovarian hormones in proper sequence. The present report deals with further studies which indicate that progesterone in the absence of estrogenic hormone has little effect on the human myometrium while testosterone alone results in contractions which resemble those seen after simultane'ous administration of estradiol and progesterone.
The Word Eudiometer

THE following quotation from J. A. Scherer's “Geschichte der Luftguteprufungslehre” (Vienna, 1785), may be of interest in connection with Prof. McLeod's letter on the invention of the word “Eudiometer” (NATURE, vol. xlvii. p. 536). After referring to Fontana's Descrizione ed usi di alcuni stromenti per misurare la salubrita dell' aria” (Florence, 1775), Scherer continues (op. cit., vol. i. p. 153), “Bald nach der Herausgabe der gedachten Instrumente machte Hr. Landriani ein neues bekannt, der erste, der es Eudiometer nannte. Er versichert uns er habe seinen Luftgutemesser von Abt Fontana nicht entlehnt. Daher gehort die Ehre der Reformation des Priestley'schen Instruments Hrn. Landriani, die ihm auch Fontana selbst in zwei Briefen einraumt.”
Perineural invasion and anaplastic transformation of verrucous carcinoma

Verrucous carcinoma is a unique variant of squamous cell cercinoma. Fifteen cases are presented. 11 were in the oral cavity, 3 in the larynx, and 1 in the uterine cervix. Anaplastic transformation of this lesion after radiation therapy, in about 30% of cases, is well documented in the literature but was not seen in our series. The reason for this change, which is usually within a matter of months, is not certain. In two entirely sectioned cases, no areas of synchronous poorly differentiated carcinoma were found. In our series, three of four primary lesions treated by radiation therapy recurred, while only 5 out of 11 cases of those treated surgically recurred. Surgical resection remains the treament of choice. Perineural invasion of verrucous carinoma appears to be rare. One such case is fully documented here. The patient is free of tumor after 6 years. Perineural invasion may represent invasion along the least resistant tissue planes by this biologically not so aggressive tumor. Further microscopic examination of verrucous carcinoma in all sites is necessary to attempt to correlate perineural invasion with prognosis.