cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Annular Centrifugal Contactors for the Extraction of Acetic Acid from Aqueous Streams

This study investigates the use of annular centrifugal contactors for the liquid-liquid extraction of acetic acid from an acidic aqueous phase into an organic phase consisting of 1.5 M Tributyl Phosphate in n-Dodecane. Initial break time tests were performed in order to investigate the mixing/separation viability of the organic/aqueous system, and after determining that centrifugal contactors could be used to perform the liquid-liquid extraction, hydraulic tests established the combination of rotation rate and throughput which should be used to ensure proper separation of the two outlet phases. Finally, extraction efficiency data was collected to examine the system conditions that provided the most efficient removal of acetic acid.
An identifiable class of statoacoustic interneurons with bilateral projections in the goldfish medulla.

Abstract Previous studies have demonstrated that some goldfish medullary neurons, inhibitory to the Mauthner cell, can be identified by a passive hyperpolarizing potential coincident with the antidromic impulse of the latter. We describe in this report a group of these interneurons that were further distinguished by their short latency responses to stimulation of the eighth nerve. Specifically, they exhibited graded short latency depolarizations following weak stimulation of the ipsilateral eighth nerve. Short latency depolarizations were followed at times by mono- or polysynaptic postsynaptic potentials. Our evidence indicated that short latency depolarizations were due to electrotonic transmission from eighth nerve afferents. Stronger stimuli evoked a shorter latency impulse which arose abruptly from the baseline. Collision tests and membrane hyperpolarizations did not reveal synaptic potentials underlying the impulses. These physiological results, therefore, suggested that the short latency impulse was a propagated response generated at an electrotonically remote site, possibly an efferent process in the eighth nerve. However, no such projection was found in morphological studies of 77 dye-injected neurons. The morphology rather indicated that these cells were statoacoustic interneurons. Thus, the short latency impulse may be due to remote, electrotonic synaptic inputs. These interneurons had their somata clustered dorsolateral and posterior to the soma of the Mauthner cell. The apparent axon projected contralaterally within the acoustic commissure and could be traced into a caudally directed tract which was lateral to the sensory division of the facial nerve. The axon ramified bilaterally and terminated in part on other statoacoustic neurons, reticular neurons and the Mauthner cells. Selective activation of these interneurons evoked unitary, inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in the Mauthner cell. Their projections suggested a widespread ipsi- and contralateral inhibitory action on other medullary areas as well. These results indicate that a re-evaluation of criteria for efferent identification and of present models for efferent function are required.
Comparison of prediction methods for differential image processing applications

An overview of ongoing research related to the development of an image data compression algorithm using artificial neural networks (ANNs) is presented. The data compression technique under study uses an ANN to perform vector quantization (VQ). A good predictor is one of the essential components of the image compression technique being explored. The performance of the various predictors are compared including an average predictor, a median predictor, a recurrent artificial neural network (RANN) predictor, and a second-order optimal linear predictor. It is shown that, for some cases, a relatively simple recurrent artificial neural network predictor performs close to the second-order optimal linear predictor and better than the average and the median predictors. >
Removal technique for cold-welded titanium locking screws.

Titanium locking plates are commonly used for periarticular fracture fixation. Early clinical results have been encouraging in their use in treating distal femur and proximal tibia fractures, particularly with the advent of instrumentation for submuscular insertion and percutaneous fixation. A unique feature of titanium locking plates is the phenomenon of cold-welded screws due to titanium being a softer metal. The removal of cold-welded screws in clinical practice can be frustrating. However, it is not commonly reported, as it is often viewed as an insignificant surgical event. Manufacturers promote a strict adherence to using a torque-limiting screwdriver to decrease the risk of cold-welding. Failure to be able to remove titanium screws can be attributed to fracturing or deforming the screw head recess, slippage of the screwdriver in the screw head, fracture of the screwdriver, or inadequate torque provided by the removal instrument. Biomechanical torque studies have shown failure of the screw head recess occurs as permanent deformation by reaming of the recess walls. If the screwdriver has slipped once, additional attempts to drive the screw in or out will produce only one-half of the original maximum torque. Consequently, once slippage has occurred, removal of the screw becomes more difficult. As the screw deforms, changing the screwdriver is futile. Previously described techniques for screw removal are documented in medical literature. First, if slippage of the screwdriver is an issue, the foil from a suture pack may be positioned between the screwdriver and the drive connection which increases the stability of the connection enough to allow for removal. Second, conical extraction screws, available in standard hardware removal sets, can be used to remove stripped screws. It can be difficult to disengage the extraction screw the locking screw
Thrombocytopenia and Drugs

Thrombocytopenia is a relatively common side effect of drug therapy. The pathogenetic mechanisms of drug-induced thrombocytopenia are varied and sometimes poorly understood. Immunologic and other cytotoxic effects may result in decreased production and/or increased destruction of platelets. The pathogenesis of drug-induced thrombocytopenia is reviewed. Diagnosis and treatment are also discussed.
Outcomes of children with emotional disturbance in residential treatment for educational purposes

A study was conducted of the outcomes of all children and adolescents (N=114) with serious emotional disturbance who had been placed by school districts in residential treatment facilities for educational purposes over a three-year period. Both cost and outcome analyses were conducted. Cost analyses indicated a total annual expenditure in excess of $5 million, or $80,000 per youth per length of stay. Outcome analyses, consisting of ratings of outcomes and outcome interviews with special education directors, revealed that 63% of the youth had either made no or minimal progress, had been discharged with a negative outcome, or had run away. Positive outcomes were achieved in only 25% of the cases, measured by the students' return to school or placement into a vocational training program. Another 11% of the youth were making substantial progress. Analyses of the relationships between outcomes and cost revealed no relationship. However, positive outcomes were associated with shorter lengths of stay. Further, students in the positive outcome categories had more severe functioning deficits at intake than students in the negative outcome categories. The availability of community-based services for the student and family was the single most likely reason reported by special education directors for positive discharge status.
An empirical examination of factors influencing prediction of carcinogenic hazard across species.

Abstract This study was stimulated by a recent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, 1994) statement in draft environmental carcinogen risk assessment guidelines: “Several kinds of observations from animal studies can contribute to the judgment whether animal responses indicate a significant carcinogenic hazard to humans.” We have investigated each of these kinds of observation using the cancer bioassay data system database. We obtained concordances from rat to mouse (and vice versa) for various subgroups of chemicals as follows: chemicals that induced tumors at multiple sites, chemicals that induce cancer in both sexes, chemicals that display reduced latency, and chemicals increasing the rates of rare tumors. The concordances are much higher for these chemical subgroups than the chemical groups that induce tumor at a single site, in only one sex, or without reduced latency, respectively. Thus, our findings support some of the EPA's suggested factors.
The Slave Catchers: Enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law, 1850-1860

In this thoroughly researched documentation of a historically controversial issue, the author considers the background, passage, and constitutionality of the Fugitive Slave Law. The author's relation of public opinion and the executive policy regarding the much disputed law will help the reader reach a decision as to whether the law was actually a success or failure, legally and socially.Originally published in 1970.A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.
Environmentalism and Values

(1972). Environmentalism and Values. The Journal of Environmental Education: Vol. 4, People, Politics, and Pollution, pp. 49-53.
T helper cell epitope of rabies virus nucleoprotein defined by tri- and tetrapeptides.

T cell clones and subsequently hybridomas were generated from rabies virus-immune C3H/He mice to an immunodominant epitope of the viral nucleoprotein, termed 31D, that had previously been identified by a 15-amino acid-long synthetic peptide. T cells to this epitope that by phenotypical and functional characteristics belonged to the T helper cell subset were shown to respond to most rabies and rabies-related viruses. In order to define the minimal sequence needed to elicit a response from 31D-specific T cell clones or hybridomas, a number of peptides of varied lengths, i.e. 3-32 amino acids long, were tested. The ability of the peptides to induce a response was inversely correlated in their lengths, i.e., short peptides (3-5 amino acids long) had to be used at 10(6) times higher concentrations as compared to long peptides (15 or 32 amino acids long). Conversely, the specificity of the T cell response was directly correlated to the length of the peptides, i.e., while the response to 15-amino acid-long peptides exhibited a high degree of specificity, the response to 3- to 5-amino acid-long peptides showed a high degree of flexibility. The long as well as the short peptides had to be presented in association with I-Ek. We speculate that in this system the T cell receptor interacts predominantly with a peptide-induced modification of the I-Ek molecule.
Invariant manifolds and the initialization problem for some atmospheric equations

Abstract An invariant manifold of quasi-geostrophic states is shown to exist for a finite-dimensional system of atmospheric equations. There is another set of scalings for the parameters (with respect to the Rossby number) which leads to the same limiting (geostrophic) equations, but such that there need not be an invariant manifold. Also discussed are computational methods.
Ultrastructural localization of carcinoembryonic antigen in normal intestine and colon cancer. Abnormal distribution of cea on the surfaces of colon cancer cells

The distribution of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in normal small intestine, normal colon, and colon cancer of humans was determined immunocytochemically by the peroxidase-labeled antibody method at the light and electron microscopic levels. In the small intestine, CEA was found in protein synthetic organelles, in the mucus, on the microvilli of goblet cells, and on some microvilli of columnar cells adjacent to goblet cells. In the normal colon, CEA was found in protein synthetic organelles of the fully differentiated columnar cells and goblet cells, as well as on the microvilli of the cells. In two well-differentiated colon cancers, the normal preferential surface expression of CEA on the microvilli was maintained, but in six poorly differentiated cancers, CEA was distributed equally over the entire cell surface. We conclude that CEA is a product of goblet cells in the small intestine, columnar and goblet cells in the colon, and colonic cancer cells. CEA on the surfaces of the normal epithelial cells is expressed in a polar manner. This polarity is lacking in undifferentiated neoplastic colon cells, which suggests that failure to establish or maintain the polar expression of normal cell-surface glycoproteins is a characteristic of the neoplastic cells.
Numerical evaluation of optical single-scattering properties using multiple-scattering inverse transport methods

Abstract Five inverse methods for determining the single-scattering properties from monochromatic optical experiments in a homogeneous multiple-scattering slab geometry are presented and compared using analytical calculations. The methods require only measurements of the specific intensities entering and leaving the target. One method requires the pulsed irradiation of the target by a non-normally incident beam, followed by measurements for all times of the time-dependent specific intensities over both the polar and azimuthal angles. Two other methods are based on normally-incident irradiation and require measurements over only the polar angle; one method requires time-dependent measurements for all times following a laser pulse, while the second permits use of a continuous-working laser but requires experiments on targets of different thicknesses. The last two methods are obtained from the Laplace-transform of time dependent specific intensities; one method requires that the Laplace transform variable s be very large, while the other requires using a set of negative s-values tending to the limit for which Laplace transformed specific intensity becomes unbounded.
Lanthanide triflate-catalyzed arene acylation. Relation to classical Friedel-Crafts acylation

Lanthanide trifluoromethanesulfonates, Ln(OTf)3 (OTf− = trifluoromethanesulfonate), serve as effective precatalysts for the rapid, regioselective, intermolecular acylation of activated arenes. This contribution probes mechanism and metal ionic radius effects in the catalytic lanthanide triflate-mediated acylation of anisole with acetic anhydride. Kinetic studies of Ln(OTf)3 (Ln = La, Eu, Yb, Lu)-mediated anisole acylation with acetic anhydride in nitromethane reveal the rate law ν ∼ k3 [Ln3+]1[acetic anhydride]1[anisole]1. Eyring and Arrhenius analyses yield ΔH‡ = 12.9 (4) kcal·mol−1, ΔS‡ = −44.8 (1.3) e.u., and Ea = 13.1 (4) kcal·mol−1 for Ln = Yb, with the negative ΔS‡ implying a highly organized transition state. The observed primary kinetic isotope effect of kH/kD = 2.6 ± 0.15 is consistent with arene C−H bond scission in the turnover-limiting step. The proposed catalytic pathway involves precatalyst formation via interaction of Ln(OTf)3 with acetic anhydride, followed by Ln3+−anisole π-complexation, ...
Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the stages and transitions in the cycle of the rat seminiferous epithelium: light microscopic observations of perfusion-fixed and plastic-embedded testes.

The stages of the cycle inthe rat seminiferous epitheium are illustrated for testes fixed by vascular perfusion and embedded in plastic resins.Improved cellular resolution in plastic sections permitted a clearer demarcation of the than in paraffin. Quantitative data are presented to the recognition of stages, particularly those in transition. Stages IV, V, VII, XI,and XII had the highest frequencies of transitional characteristics. Stage IV was redefined to be more consistent with the occurrence of a high percentage of mitotic figures and to clarify transitions in this stage. Although the resolution of cellular detail was greatly improved withthe use of plastics, the thinner sections contained fewer identifying features together within a single tubule cross section and sometimes major characteristics were absent. Therefore, additional characteristics were used for stage classification, SUCh as nuclear diameter and the presence or absence of mitotic figures. A binarydecision key isprovided to improve consistency among laboratories in the identification of the stages in plastic-embedded testes.
Supporting guaranteed continuous media streaming in mobile ad-hoc networks with link availability prediction

As wireless connectivity is integrated into many handheld devices, streaming multimedia content among mobile ad-hoc peers is becoming a popular application. In this paper, we introduce a new QoS criterion called path-availability-based service coverage to mobile streaming applications. Based on this QoS criterion, we propose a dynamic service replication strategy for providing guaranteed continuous streaming service to all nodes in mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs). Unlike previous approaches that rely on remaining link duration to determine when service replication should be invoked, in our strategy, a client requests service replication when the path availability between the client and a server instance drops below a certain threshold. This strategy is based on our previous work on continuous link availability, which proves to be helpful in achieving smooth streaming performance in MANETs. Simulation results show that our service replication algorithm can quickly increase the service coverage to 100% while reducing the chance of link breakdowns during service replication.
Resonant enhancement of direct two-photon absorption in Tb3+:LiYF4.

Resonant enhancement by a factor of over 20 of direct two-photon absorption from the ground state $^{7}\mathrm{F}_{6}$ to the excited state $^{5}\mathrm{G}_{6}$ of the 4${f}^{8}$ configuration of the ${\mathrm{Tb}}^{3+}$ ion at 40 200 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ has been observed in time-resolved experiments with two separate pulsed lasers. The results provide clear evidence for resonant enhancement of two-photon absorption in rare-earth compounds and imply a similar enhancement for Raman scattering and nonlinear-optical mixing. Two separate contributions to the direct transition moment were observed. When a single laser frequency was used, the intermediate states which made the largest contribution were from excited configurations of opposite parity; those intermediate states were far from resonance. Detailed two-frequency experiments showed, however, that near a single photon $^{7}\mathrm{F}_{6}$${\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}^{5}$${\mathrm{D}}_{4}$ resonance, a much stronger contribution arose from the 4${f}^{8}$ configuration $^{5}\mathrm{D}_{4}$ intermediate state. Two-photon absorption was clearly isolated from two-step (incoherent) excitation by varying the timing of two separately triggered lasers.
DNA-Mediated Fusion Between Small Vesicles and a Planar, Tethered Bilayer Patch

We have previously shown that DNA-lipid conjugates can be used to mediate membrane fusion between small vesicles and also to construct membrane architectures, such as a DNA-tethered lipid bilayer patch which is distanced from a glass coverslip by 8 nm long DNA duplex tethers. We currently employ these bilayer patches in a model vesicle fusion system, studying the fusion (both lipid-mixing and content-mixing) of small vesicles to the bilayer patches, where fusion is mediated by complementary DNA-lipid partners in a geometry similar to that of SNARE-mediated membrane fusion. This model system allows us to quantitatively describe important aspects of membrane fusion, such as the dependence of fusion on DNA-lipid concentration, the numbers of DNA-duplexes involved in the fusion process, the role of proximity and membrane curvature on the fusion reaction. We have also developed a kinetic model describing the distribution of docking-to-fusion wait times and find that these wait times are exponentially distributed, implying a stochastic process which initiates fusion. Insights into the biological membrane fusion process are discussed.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
Illicit arms transfers to Africa and the prominence of the former Soviet bloc: a social network analysis

Small arms and light weapons are the primary causes of death in the violent conflicts raging today. Although the small arms trade is difficult to track, and the illicit trade doubly so, a wealth of information is available. This article applies some basic tools of social network analysis (SNA) to reveal the high profile of former Soviet bloc countries in the illicit arms trade with Africa. I set up this analysis with a discussion of the features of social networks that allow them to facilitate the transfer of illicit weaponry, and follow the presentation of my findings with some explanations for the prominence of Russia and other post-communist countries in this trade. My discussion focuses on the importance of relationships, their quantity and quality, as providing opportunities for, and constraints on, the flow of material and social resources between the actors and locales that comprise the illicit arms trade network. I also highlight the extent to which the positions of key players may account for their power within the network and their roles in security governance, which in the illicit context requires the maintenance of secrecy and redundancy.
Methoxy-P-Benzoquinone and Methoxyhydroquinone as Models for Chromophore Changes in the Bleaching of Softwood Mechanical Pulps. I the Detection of Methoxyhydroquinone in the Spent Liquor from the Peroxide Bleaching of Thermo-Mechanical Pulp

Abstract Methoxyhydroquinone was detected in the spent liquors of peroxide-bleached loblolly pine thennomechanical pulp. The potential effect of this leucochromophore and the corresponding quinone on the brightness and brightness stability of mechanical pulps bleached with peroxide is discussed.
EVIDENCE FOR HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY DYSFUNCTION IN THE PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME

The etiology of the Prader-Willi Syndrome is obscure. Although the clinical characteristics (obesity, mental retardation, hypotonia and hypogonadism) suggest hypothalamic dysfunction, this has not been documented. We have studied two patients (15 and 22 yr.) with this disorder in whom clinico-pathologic correlation was possible. Both were severely obese (150 and 190 kg) with glucose intolerance. Cold exposure (4° C for 1 hr.) produced an abnormal decrease in body temperature in one child. Plasma growth hormone (GH) did not increase with arginine-insulin, or L-dopa stimulation. Plasma cortisol showed a diurnal variation but blunted response to hypoglycemia. Basal T4 and TSH were normal and the TSH, T4 and T3 responses to TRH were normal in both patients. Basal testosterone was low in both individuals and LH and FSH responses to LRH were blunted. Clomiphene stimulation failed to augment plasma gonadotropin levels. The pituitary glands were of decreased weight but neither the pituitary nor hypothalamus was abnormal on light microscopy. These studies indicate abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary function in both patients. Involvement of the temperature control center, absent clomiphene response, abnormal GH responsiveness and normal anatomical findings support the formulation of a functional hypothalamic abnormality.
Reactions of stereoisomeric and structurally related bay region diol epoxide derivatives of benz[a]anthracene with DNA. Conformations of non-covalent complexes and covalent carcinogen-DNA adducts

Abstract The modes of reaction of the tumorigenic bay region diol epoxide anti -BADE ((±)- trans -3,4-diol- anti -1,2-epoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrobenz[ a ]anthracene) and the less potent tumor initiating diastereomer syn -BADE ((±)- trans -3,4-diol- syn -1,2-epoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrobenz[ a ]anthracene) with native, double-stranded DNA were compared. The bay-region diol epoxide derived from 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MCDE, racemic trans -9,10-diol- anti -7,8-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydromethylcholanthrene) was included in this study in order to assess the effects of the methyl and methylene substituents on the reactivity with DNA. Utilizing linear dichroism and other spectroscopic methods, it is shown that all three diol epoxides form non-covalent complexes with DNA. The diastereomers anti -BADE and syn -BADE form intercalative physical complexes, but the association constant K of the syn -diastereomer is about 6–7 times smaller than for anti -BADE; this effect is ascribed to the bulky quasi-diaxial conformation of the diol epoxide ring in the syn diastereomer. The value of K (4000 M −1 ) is similar for anti -BADE and 3-MCDE, although the latter is not intercalated in the classical sense since the short axis of the molecule is tilted closer to the axis of the DNA double helix. The conformations of the covalent DNA adducts are interpreted in terms of a quasi-intercalative conformation (site I), and a conformation in which the long axes of the polycyclic molecules are tilted closer to the axis of the helix (site II). Both tumorigens, anti -BADE and 3-MCDE, undergo a marked reorientation from a non-covalent site I to a covalent site II conformation upon binding chemically with the DNA bases, although a small fraction of the covalent anti -BADE adducts remains quasi-intercalated; in contrast, the alkyl substituents in 3-MCDE not only prevent the formation of intercalative physical complexes, but also the formation of site I covalent adducts. In the case of the less tumorigenic syn -BADE, both the non-covalent complexes and the covalent adducts are of the site I-type. The bay-region diol epoxide of benz[ a ]anthracene and of 3-methylcholanthrene display a similar pattern of reactivities and covalent adduct conformations as the bay region diol epoxide derivatives of benz[ a ]pyrene, suggesting that adduct conformation might be an important factor in determining the levels of mutagenic and tumorigenic activities of this class of compounds.
Quantitative in situ analysis of FoxP3+ T regulatory cells on transplant tissue using laser scanning cytometry.

There is abundant evidence that immune cells infiltrating into a transplanted organ play a critical role for destructive inflammatory or regulatory immune reactions. Quantitative in situ analysis (i.e., in tissue sections) of immune cells remains challenging due to a lack of objective methodology. Laser scanning cytometry (LSC) is an imaging-based methodology that performs quantitative measurements on fluorescently and/or chromatically stained tissue or cellular specimens at a single-cell level. In this study, we have developed a novel objective method for analysis of immune cells, including Foxp3+ T regulatory cells (Tregs), on formalin-fixed/paraffin-embedded (FFPE) transplant biopsy sections using iCys® Research Imaging Cytometer. The development of multiple immunofluorescent staining was established using FFPE human tonsil sample. The CD4/CD8 ratio and the population of Tregs among CD4+ cells were analyzed using iCys and compared with the results from conventional flow cytometry analysis (FCM). Our mu...
Working through resistance to change by using the “competing commitments model”

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a description of the “competing commitments model”.Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores the “competing commitments model”.Findings – The paper discovers that the competing commitment is a three‐stage process that is guided by: a set of questions that are designed to uncover the competing commitments; a process for determining the underlying assumptions at their core; and beginning the process of behavioural change. The “competing commitments model” is particularly useful in understanding conflicts in the diverse environment of digital library projects by providing the team members with a way to share (and work through) big assumptions that may fundamentally differ in any number of ways.Originality/value – Exploring competing commitments is a positive approach for project team conflict resolution because it is not designed to identify “bad behavior” nor does it take a prescriptive approach in trying to fix behavior.
Postoperative Analgesia Use of Intrathecal Morphine in Children

The identification of opiate receptors in the spinal cord gave rise to the suggestion that the use of intrathecal and epidural narcotics may provide effective and safe postoperative analgesia. The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of ten children who received intrathecal morphine as part of their anesthetic care over the last 2 years. Preservative-free morphine (Duramorph) in a dose of 0.02 mg/kg was administered to all patients in the lumbar intrathecal space before the start of the surgical procedure. Adequate postoperative analgesia was achieved in the ten children. No patient required supplemental analgesic agents for the initial 15-hour postoperative period. Surgical procedures included exploratory laparotomy, laryngotracheoplasty, and craniofacial reconstruction. As with narcotics administered by any route, intrathecal morphine can cause respiratory depression, and such depression may be delayed for up to 24 hours after the dose. Therefore, the postoperative respiratory status of these children should be monitored for 24 hours after the dose, preferably in an intensive care unit. With this caveat, the use of intrathecal morphine provides safe and effective postoperative analgesia in children undergoing major surgery.
OB in a Video Box: Using Remember the Titans as a Microcosm for the Organizational Behavior Course

The use of movies and television in teaching is growing in popularity. Although a number of publications describe movies for use in the classroom, no single suggestion has been offered as an example that covers all the basic concepts of an organizational behavior course. Disney's Remember the Titans is that movie and, as such, is a valuable tool for educators with limited budgets and limited time to manage extensive video libraries. Suggestions are offered for using the movie along with concept illustrations, thought items, and sample exam questions.
A simple method for estimating potential relative radiation (PRR) for landscape-scale vegetation analysis

Radiation is one of the primary influences on vegetation composition and spatial pattern. Topographic orientation is often used as a proxy for relative radiation load due to its effects on evaporative demand and local temperature. Common methods for incorporating this information (i.e., site measures of slope and aspect) fail to include daily or annual changes in solar orientation and shading effects from local topography. As a result, these static measures do not incorporate the level of spatial and temporal heterogeneity required to examine vegetation patterns at the landscape level. We developed a widely applicable method for estimating potential relative radiation (PRR) using digital elevation data and a widely used geographic information system (Arc/Info). We found significant differences among four increasingly comprehensive radiation proxies. Our GIS-based proxy compared well with estimates from more data-intensive and computationally rigorous radiation models. We note that several recent studies have not found strong correlations between vegetation pattern and landscape-scale differences in radiation. We suggest that these findings may be due to the use of proxies that were not accurately capturing variability in radiation, and we recommend PRR or similar measures for use in future vegetation analyses.
Improved bias and stability in dual-exchange-biased unshielded magnetoresistive heads

Data are presented on dual-exchange-biased NiFe-TbCo UMR (unshielded magnetoresistive) tape heads with improved signal response and process stability. It was found that a Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ passivation layer offered better stability of the exchange bias through head processing than SiO/sub 2/. In order to improve sensor sensitivity, the longitudinal component of the exchange bias was reduced by increasing the exchange angle to 75 degrees from the sense current direction. This resulted in a +6-dB improvement in signal over previous heads without sacrificing Barkhausen-noise-free operation in narrow trackwidths. Heads with trackwidths as narrow as 8 mu m were shown to operate at linear densities of up to 50 kFCI with excellent signal-to-noise ratios (>45 dB). Investigations of different passivation materials showed Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ to provide the best protection against environmental corrosion and thermally induced oxidation of the TbCo layer. >
The relationship between the consumption of various drugs by adolescents and their academic achievement

This study uses the NELS data set to assess the relationship between adolescent patterns of the consumption of marijuana, cocaine, alcohol, and cigarette consumption and their academic achievement. The results of the study indicate that increased frequency of cigarette smoking and being under the influence of marijuana, cocaine, and alcohol did frequently have an impact on adolescent academic achievement. When all types of drug consumption were considered together, cigarette smoking, being drunk, and under the influence of alcohol while at school were the variables that produced the most consistent statistically significant effects. Being under the influence of cocaine generally produced the largest regression coefficients, but the effects were often not statistically significant, which may in part be due to the small portion of students who reported being under the influence of cocaine while at school. When examined separately, being under the influence of cocaine and marijuana each had consistently statistically significant effects on academic achievement.
Increased Hypermutation at G and C Nucleotides in Immunoglobulin Variable Genes from Mice Deficient in the MSH2 Mismatch Repair Protein

Rearranged immunoglobulin variable genes are extensively mutated after stimulation of B lymphocytes by antigen. Mutations are likely generated by an error-prone DNA polymerase, and the mismatch repair pathway may process the mispairs. To examine the role of the MSH2 mismatch repair protein in hypermutation, Msh2−/− mice were immunized with oxazolone, and B cells were analyzed for mutation in their VκOx1 light chain genes. The frequency of mutation in the repair-deficient mice was similar to that in Msh2+/+ mice, showing that MSH2-dependent mismatch repair does not cause hypermutation. However, there was a striking bias for mutations to occur at germline G and C nucleotides. The results suggest that the hypermutation pathway frequently mutates G·C pairs, and a MSH2-dependent pathway preferentially corrects mismatches at G and C.
Marvin- Near Surface Methane Detection on Mars

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for a methane detection mission on Mars has been conceptually designed for a science mission in support of the search for life on Mars. Methane being one of the indicators of life, it seeks to identify areas of high methane concentration as well as to create a high resolution map of the methane concentration over as large an area as possible. Integrated product and process design methodology (IPPD) has been applied and included the use of a house of quality to rank importance, as well as Pugh and TOPSIS analyses to rank feasible alternatives. The output of the design process is that an airship is most suitable for this mission. The use of an airship allows for long endurance, which is a requirement for mapping a large surface area, as well as a low minimum speed, which allows for a higher resolution map. This design decision led to the preliminary design of an airship and the mission itself. Sizing and Mass Estimation indicates that due to the rare atmosphere and lower than Earth gravity on Mars, the Airship size can be colossal, which poses difficulties. An interplanetary fast transfer trajectory has been chosen for launch atop a Delta II 7925H. The payload will be encased within an aeroshell analogous to the one used on the Mars Exploratory Rovers (MER) mission and an identical Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL) using parachute and airbag landing procedure will be performed. The encasing within the airbag will house a ground station with transceivers and hydrogen gas tanks that can be jettisoned along with Marvin the Airship in a deflated and packed form. Upon initial inflation using hydrogen gas, Marvin shall set off on the methane detection mission within the Elysium Planitia region on Mars. The H2 gas within the envelope will maintain static lift. Refilling through the connection at the airship bottom will be required every 3rd Earth day if altitude is to not decrease below 50 meters from an initial calculated altitude of 78 meters. An innovative pulse jet method using hydrogen gas to propel the Airship has been described. All instrumentation including the spectrometer, anti-collision sensing device and video cameras will be mounted on the gondola attached to the bottom of Marvin by tethers. A tethered anchor for braking, with a miniature actuation motor will be mounted at its bottom. Mission life of two months has been chosen. Mission cost is projected to be US$ 350-430 M. The concept is shown in Figure 1.
Transmembrane Proteins UNC-40/DCC, PTP-3/LAR, and MIG-21 Control Anterior–Posterior Neuroblast Migration with Left–Right Functional Asymmetry in Caenorhabditis elegans

Migration of neurons and neural crest cells is of central importance to the development of nervous systems. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the QL neuroblast on the left migrates posteriorly, and QR on the right migrates anteriorly, despite similar lineages and birth positions with regard to the left–right axis. Initial migration is independent of a Wnt signal that controls later anterior–posterior Q descendant migration. Previous studies showed that the transmembrane proteins UNC-40/DCC and MIG-21, a novel thrombospondin type I repeat containing protein, act redundantly in left-side QL posterior migration. Here we show that the LAR receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP-3 acts with MIG-21 in parallel to UNC-40 in QL posterior migration. We also show that in right-side QR, the UNC-40 and PTP-3/MIG-21 pathways mutually inhibit each other’s role in posterior migration, allowing anterior QR migration. Finally, we present evidence that these proteins act autonomously in the Q neuroblasts. These studies indicate an inherent left–right asymmetry in the Q neuroblasts with regard to UNC-40, PTP-3, and MIG-21 function that results in posterior vs. anterior migration.
Prevalence and correlates of metabolic syndrome based on a harmonious definition among adults in the US.

Background: Recently, a Joint Scientific Statement bridged differences between previous definitions of metabolic syndrome. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a representative sample of US adults and to examine its correlates. Methods: We analyzed data for up to 3461 participants aged ≥20 years of the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Results: Using waist circumference thresholds of ≥102 cm for men and ≥88 cm for women, the age-adjusted prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 34.3% among all adults, 36.1% among men, and 32.4% among women. Using racial- or ethnic-specific International Diabetes Federation criteria for waist circumference, the age-adjusted prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 38.5% for all participants, 41.9% for men, and 35.0% for women. Prevalence increased with age, peaking among those aged 60–69 years. Prevalence was lower among African American men than White or Mexican American men, and lower among White women than among African American or Mexican American women. In a multivariate regression model, significant independent associations were noted for age (positive), gender (men higher than women), race or ethnicity (African Americans and participants of another race lower than Whites), educational status (inverse), hypercholesterolemia (positive), concentrations of C-reactive protein (positive), leisure time physical activity (inverse), microalbuminuria (positive), and hyperinsulinemia (positive). Additional adjustment for body mass index weakened many of the associations, with educational status and microalbuminuria no longer significant contributors to the model. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome continues to be highly prevalent among adults in the US.
The Effect of Shell Egg Pasteurization on the Protein Quality of Albumen

The effect of a low-temperature, extended-time, in-shell pasteurization process on the protein quality of egg albumen was evaluated. Ten dozen fresh chicken eggs were pasteurized in a hot-air oven at 55 C for 180 min. The eggs were refrigerated and broken out for analysis on Days 0, 7, 14, 28, 42, and 56 following pasteurization. There were no significant differences in total or soluble protein over the experimental period for the pasteurized or unpasteurized albumen. Mean protein content was 80.6 ± 0.5% for the pasteurized albumen and 80.9 ± 0.5% for the unpasteurized albumen. In vitro digestibility, as measured by the AOAC method, was 82.4 ± 0.7% for the pasteurized albumen and 81.7 ± 0.6% for the unpasteurized albumen. There were no significant differences over the experimental period in the digestibility of the samples. Free amino acids and discriminant-computed protein efficiency ratio (DC-PER) also did not differ between the pasteurized and unpasteurized albumens or over the experimental period. The in-shell pasteurization process used had no effect on the protein quality of albumen.
Characterization of peptide folding nuclei by hydrogen/deuterium exchange‐mass spectrometry

Covalently linked pairs of well-chosen peptides can be good model systems for protein folding studies because they can adopt stable secondary, side-chain, and tertiary structure under certain conditions. We demonstrate a method for characterizing the structure in such peptide pairs by hydrogen/deuterium exchange of individual amide groups analyzed by collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry, in concert with circular dichroism spectroscopy. We apply the method to two peptides (and their three possible pairs) from bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor to address specific hypotheses regarding the stabilization of local secondary structure by long-range interactions.
Phenotypic clustering of yeast mutants based on kinetochore microtubule dynamics

Motivation: Kinetochores are multiprotein complexes which mediate chromosome attachment to microtubules (MTs) of the mitotic spindle. They regulate MT dynamics during chromosome segregation. Our goal is to identify groups of kinetochore proteins with similar effects on MT dynamics, revealing pathways through which kinetochore proteins transform chemical and mechanical input signals into cues of MT regulation. Results: We have developed a hierarchical, agglomerative clustering algorithm that groups Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains based on MT-mediated chromosome dynamics measured by high-resolution live cell microscopy. Clustering is based on parameters of autoregressive moving average (ARMA) models of the probed dynamics. We have found that the regulation of wildtype MT dynamics varies with cell cycle and temperature, but not with the chromosome an MT is attached to. By clustering the dynamics of mutants, we discovered that the three genes IPL1, DAM1 and KIP3 co-regulate MT dynamics. Our study establishes the clustering of chromosome and MT dynamics by ARMA descriptors as a sensitive framework for the systematic identification of kinetochore protein subcomplexes and pathways for the regulation of MT dynamics. Availability: The clustering code, written in Matlab, can be downloaded from http://lccb.scripps.edu. (‘download’ hyperlink at bottom of website). Contact: kjaqaman@scripps.edu Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Comparative Perspectives on Militarization, Repression and Social Welfare:

The focus of this article is upon the costs of high military burdens and militarization. While the primary concern is with the Third World, this analysis also considers costs to advanced capitalist as well as state socialist systems. The work synthesizes findings by more than three dozen researchers, many of whom have published comparative or case studies of substitution effects of military expenditures in socio-economic areas. Particular attention is focused upon damage to the American socio-economic order by high militarization since the early 1960's. In both the North as well as the South, the costs are most obvious in terms of specific tradeoffs when military burdens are high or rapidly increasing. They are occasionally pronounced in such welfare areas as health and particularly education. More frequently, they appear in terms of diminished economic growth rates, unemployment, reduced exports and inflation. In developing nations welfare is less adversely affected in civilian, more industrialized, econ...
The Complexity of Biological Computers

Man can handle small amounts of information in conscious purposeful activities. However, the concept of information processing is not limited to these; it applies equally to unconscious nervous control, and even to chemical control and coordination of metabolism. On this level, the amounts of information computed are enormous; man processes about 3×1024 bits per day just in the course of producing biochemical tools. The general pattern for these computations is laid down in a blueprint containing 105 to 109 bits of nonredundant information. Such numbers are characteristic of living things in general. These informational feats are performed with high over-all reliability in spite of frequently low precision Of single acts. This is accomplished by prodigious degrees of redundancy.
Photomaximization test for identifying photoallergic contact sensitizers

The photomaximization procedure was designed to identify topical photocontact sensitizers following the format of the maximization test for contact sensitizers. The test agent is applied for 24 hours followed by exposure to three Minimal Erythema Doses (MED) of solar simulated radiation twice weekly for 3 weeks (six exposures) in a panel of 25 white Caucasoids. The subjects are challenged 2 weeks later with 4.0 J/cm2 of long-wave ultraviolet radiation (UV-A). Photocontact sensitization was induced to 3,3'4',5-tetrachlorosalicylanilide (TCSA); dibromosalicylanilide (DBS) but not to tribomosalicylanilide unless the latter was contaminated with DBS. Jadit and bithionol were weak photoallergens. The highest rate of sensitization was given by 6-methylcoumarin, a widely used synthetic fragrance. Hexachlorophene and trichlorocarbanilide were negative.
Comment on “Increase of Ion kinetic temperature across a collisionless shock: I. A new concept by L. C. Lee et al.” and “Ion acceleration in quasiperpendicular magnetosonic shock waves with subcritical Mach number by Y. Ohsawa and J. Sakai”

The question of ion heating at subcritical collisionless shocks is reviewed in light of newly proposed mechanisms.
Educational Perspectives: The Difficult Team Debrief: Strategies for the Facilitator

Debriefing is a powerful tool used in team training and quality improvement to promote learning and improve patient safety. Reflective learning among team members during a debriefing can be jeopardized when facilitators encounter either difficult learners or complicated debriefing situations. A difficult debrief can undermine a facilitator’s credibility, discourage future learner participation, and reduce the facilitator’s confidence in the debriefing process. In this article, the authors provide guidance for instructors and facilitators who face either difficult learners or challenging situations when debriefing teams during simulation-based training or after acute patient events.