cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Establishment and characterization of a permanent pSV ori--transformed ataxia-telangiectasia cell line.

Abstract A permanent ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) cell line has been established from the fibroblast strain AT2SF after transfection with the bacterial plasmid pSV ori − , which contains replication origin-defective SV40 sequences. The original transfection frequency, as measured by transformed foci, was markedly reduced in two A-T strains when compared with either normal or xeroderma pigmentosum fibroblasts. As with SV40 virion-transformed fibroblasts, pSV ori − -transformed cells entered a crisis phase, from which about one-fourth of the original clones from A-T and normal fibroblasts recovered. Both the pSV ori − -transformed TAT2SF cell line and an SV40 virion-transformed AT5BI (GM5489) cell line retained their characteristic sensitivity to the lethal effects of ionizing radiation, as well as their X ray-resistant DNA synthesis. Southern blot analysis of cellular SV40 sequences demonstrated a single major integration site of pSV ori − in the AT2SF cells. In contrast, AT5BI cells transformed with SV40 virions demonstrated a high degree of heterogeneity of integrated viral sequences. Neither the TAT2SF nor the GM5489 transformed cell line contains any detectable freely replicating SV40 viral sequences, which are seen in many other semipermissive SV40-transformed cells.
Longitudinal study of BGP monitor session failures

BGP routing data collected by RouteViews and RIPE RIS have become an essential asset to both the network research and operation communities. However, it has long been speculated that the BGP monitoring sessions between operational routers and the data collectors fail from time to time. Such session failures lead to missing update messages as well as duplicate updates during session re-establishment, making analysis results derived from such data inaccurate. Since there is no complete record of these monitoring session failures, data users either have to sanitize the data discretionarily with respect to their specific needs or, more commonly, assume that session failures are infrequent enough and simply ignore them. In this paper, we present the first systematic assessment and documentary on BGP session failures of RouteViews and RIPE data collectors over the past eight years. Our results show that monitoring session failures are rather frequent, more than 30% of BGP monitoring sessions experienced at least one failure every month. Furthermore, we observed failures that happen to multiple peer sessions on the same collector around the same time, suggesting that the collector's local problems are a major factor in the session instability. We also developed a web site as a community resource to publish all session failures detected for RouteViews and RIPE RIS data collectors to help users select and clean up BGP data before performing their analysis.
Relationship of indole-3-butyric acid and adventitious rooting in M.26 apple ( Malus Pumila mill.) shoots cultured in vitro

The role of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) in adventitious root formation was studied by analyzing the uptake and subsequent metabolism of IBA in shoots of M.26 apple (Malus pumila Mill.) rootstock grown in vitro. Roots were induced by exposing shoots to 4 μM IBA and [3H]IBA for 5 days in the dark and then transferring them to plant growth regulator (PGR)-free medium in the light until roots formed. Approximately 50% of the total radioactivity applied was taken up from the agar medium by the shoots during the 5-day incubation period in IBA. Indole-3-butyric acid metabolism was studied by extraction and high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) separation of [3H]IBA and metabolites from the basal sections of treated shoots. The major [3H]IBA metabolite co-eluted with authentic [14C]indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) suggesting that IBA was converted to IAA in the shoots. The proportion of newly synthesized IAA present as conjugates was higher at the end of the 5-day IBA treatment period than after 13 days in PGR-free medium. There appeared to be no conjugation of IBA at any time.
Characteristics of a Transmission Control Viewing Storage Tube with Halftone Display

A storage tube is described which maintains a bright visual display, using a charge pattern stored on an insulating layer to grid control the transmitted viewing beam. This insulating layer is a part of an image amplifier system, whose operation and characteristics are discussed. The factors affecting background uniformity and viewing duration have been investigated. Methods of extending the viewing duration by electrically compensating for ion landing have been developed. Erasure, which prepares the surface for the writing of new information, may either be over-all erasure of the entire picture, or selective erasure of only that area where new information is to be written. The present tubes will display a halftone picture of good quality for 30 seconds without compensation, and for over 3 minutes with compensation, after writing has stopped. The writing process can be accomplished in 1/30 second for a complete halftone picture. The resolution is over 500 lines on a 4-inch diameter screen, and there are at least 5 distnguishable halftone steps. As a radar indicator, this tube provides a flickerless display of the complete radar picture, which is bright enough for daylight viewing.
Freeze‐fracture study of rat ventral prostate: Secretory mechanisms in the epithelial cell

Membrane events during apocrine and merocrine secretion of rat ventral prostate epithelial cells were analyzed by freeze-fracture. Early morpho-logical manifestation of both secretory modes involves focal clearance of microvilli characterized by their progressive inclination and attenuation over the apical membrane. Merocrine secretion includes invasion of the apical microfilament web by the secretory vesicle and clearance of membrane particles at the site of its interaction with the apical plasmalemma. During apocrine secretion, a portion of the plasma membrane cleared of microvilli projects into the lumen. Growth of this projection is accompanied by a progressive, but partial, clearing of membrane particles and results in the formation of a large bleb containing dilated endoplasmic reticulum cisternae. Completion of the process involves “degeneration” of the bleb and its release by constriction of a neck and, possibly, fusion of vesicular or tubular structures. Swelling and blebbing of microvilli are shown to be preparation artifacts.
Restructuring the Suburbs: Political Economy of Economic Development in Auburn Hills, Michigan

ABSTRACT: The suburban transformation, in which American suburbs have experienced rapid growth and physical restructuring, has been explained on the basis of economic factors. This study employs regime analysis to assess the role of politics in the restructuring of a suburban community in metropolitan Detroit. It examines the complex interactions between economic and political elites in the process of suburban transformation.
SECOND ORDER LATTICE FERMIONS

Abstract In an attempt to circumvent the species doubling problem of lattice fermions, we consider a second-order lagrangian formalism. We conclude that the lattice regulator breaks the underlying chiral symmetry of the massless theory. Adjusting the coefficient of the induced Pauli coupling does not restore the symmetry in the continuum limit.
Application Of Ghost Proximity Effect Correction Method To Conventional And Nonswelling Negative E-Beam Resists

The proximity effect in electron-beam lithography can be corrected by the "GHOST" method, in which an additional field exposure with defocused beam at lower dose is used to compensate proximity effect. This technique was applied to CMS-EX(R) and RD-2000N negative resist successfully. Excellent linewidth control was confirmed by an electrical test method. A parameter of development rate ratio was used to characterize the performance of nonswelling negative resist.
Premature graying, balding, and low bone mineral density in older women and men: the Rancho Bernardo study.

Objective: The authors report the association of balding or graying with BMD in older adults. Method: BMD was measured at the spine, hip, and total body in 1,207 participants. Of these, 508 women a...
DinoMorph: Parametric modeling of skeletal structures

A parametric approach towards modeling is advocated for skeletal reconstructions. Three-dimensional digital reconstructions are compared with conventional two-dimensional illustrations, particularly silhouette drawings. The advantages of the parametric system provided by the DinoMorph™ software include: open access to all data comprising the model and the rendering algorithms for the independent verification of reconstructions, tools for parametrically editing and manipulating pose, bone, and joint geometry, visualization of assemblies in three-dimensions from arbitrary perspectives, multiple resolution models of skeletal element morphology (from schematic to highly detailed), and extensibility to support specific research objectives. The system architecture and current capabilities are described and illustrated.
Conductance behavior of 1∶1 electrolytes in N,N-dimethylmethanesulfonamide

The conductances of eleven 1:1 salts have been measured at 50°C in N,N-dimethylmethanesulfonamide (DMMSA) for electrolyte concentrations of 1.2−55.0×10−4 mol-dm−3. The conductance data were analyzed using the equation of Lee and Wheaton. Calculations for different values of the distance parameter R indicate that all salts studied are only slightly associated in DMMSA. Association was somewhat greater for the trimethylphenylammonium halides than for the tetraalkylammonium salts. Ionic limiting molar conductances were estimated using the tris (isopentyl) butylammonium tetraphenylborate approximation. The markedly smaller value for λo (Na+) compared to the values for λo (Br−) and λo (I−) indicates that the sodium ion is probably more extensively solvated than the halide ion. In general, it appears that DMMSA (dielectric constant=80.31 at 50°C) is similar in its solvent properties to dipolar aprotic heterocyclic solvents such as 2-cyanopyridine and 3-methyl-2-oxazolidone which have similar dielectric constants.
Grain size dependence of the plastic deformation kinetics in Cu

Data on the effect of grain size d in the range of nm to mm on the plastic deformation kinetics of Cu at 77–373 K are analyzed to determine the influence of grain size on the strain rate-controlling mechanism. Three grain size regimes were identified: Regimes I (d≈10−6–10−3 m), II (d≈10−8–10−6 m) and III (d<∼10−8 m). A dislocation cell structure characterizes Regime II, which no longer occurs in Regime II. The absence of all intragranular dislocation activity characterizes Regime III. The following mechanisms were concluded to be rate-controlling for : (a) Regime I, intersection of dislocations; (b) Regime I, grain boundary shear promoted by dislocation pile-ups; and (c) Regime III, grain boundary shear. The major effect of grain size on the intersection mechanism in Regime I is on the mobile and forest dislocation densities; the effect in Regime II is on the number of dislocations and on the number of grain boundary atom sites; the effect in Regime III is on the number of grain boundary atom sites. The transition grain size from one regime to another depends on the strain rate and temperature. Crystallographic texture is also important.
Effects of Certain Electrical Stimulation Parameters on Quality and Palatability of Beef

Grain-finished steers and heifers (n=390) were slaughtered in a commercial plant and assigned to one of five groups: (a) electrical stimulation (ES) immediately after exsanguination, (b) ES immediately before evisceration, (c) ES immediately after evisceration, (d) ES immediately after splitting, and (e) untreated (not ES). ES consisted of either 150 or 550 volts for either 1 or 2 mm. Electrically stimulated carcasses had more youthful, brighter colored lean and less “heat-ring” than untreated (not ES) carcasses. Steaks from electrically stimulated carcasses had (P<0.05) lower shear force values, were more tender, had less panel-detectable connective tissue and higher overall palatability ratings than did steaks from untreated (not ES) carcasses. Steaks from carcasses receiving 550-volt ES usually had more youthful, brighter colored lean and lower shear force values, were more tender, had less panel-detectable connective tissue and higher overall palatability ratings than steaks from carcasses that received 150-volt electrical stimulation. Quality and palatability traits of carcasses electrically stimulated for 1 mm were not different from those of carcasses receiving 2 mm of electrical stimulation. Electrical stimulation at different stages in the slaughter-dressing sequence did not evoke differential responses in quality or palatability factors.
Methadone trough levels in pregnancy.

Abstract Objective: This study was undertaken to determine (1) the methadone serum trough level adequate to prevent withdrawal symptoms in heroin-addicted pregnant women and (2) whether the methadone serum trough level in symptomatic women with withdrawal symptoms differs from that of asymptomatic women. Study Design: Pregnant women addicted to heroin were followed up prospectively between March 1, 1999, and March 1, 2000, in a specialized multidisciplinary methadone program after in-hospital stabilization. After counseling, women signing Institutional Review Board–approved informed consent had their methadone serum trough (20-24 hours after last dose) level checked at regular intervals throughout pregnancy. Methadone levels were kept blinded from clinicians. Methadone doses were increased only according to withdrawal symptoms. Methadone levels of asymptomatic (without withdrawal symptoms) women were compared with methadone serum trough levels of symptomatic (with withdrawal symptoms) women. Results: Mean methadone serum trough level was 0.295 ± 0.16 mg/L in asymptomatic women (n = 44) and 0.175 ± 0.11 mg/L in symptomatic (n = 58) women ( P P =.1). No patient had a toxic-range methadone trough level (all Conclusion: Mean methadone serum trough level in asymptomatic pregnant women is approximately 0.3 mg/L, and levels of 0.24 mg/L or greater should be considered adequate to prevent withdrawal symptoms in pregnancy. Knowledge of these levels will help management of the frequently noncompliant heroin-addicted pregnant woman. Appropriate daily dosing to achieve these levels is usually between 50 and 150 mg methadone, with the occasional need for even higher doses in the third trimester. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:1184-8.)
In Vivo Fluorescence Lifetime Detection of a Cathepsin-Activatable Probe in Infarcted Myocardium

Using a protease-activatable near-infrared probe, we demonstrate that lifetime-based time domain imaging can improve fluorescence contrast useful for detecting myocardial infarctions in vivo and for isolating the non-specific signal from the liver.
An assessment of Aviation’s contribution to current and future fine particulate matter in the United States

Abstract The impacts of aviation emissions on current and future year fine particulate matter (PM2.5) were investigated using the Community Multiscale Air Quality model, accounting for aviation emissions from 99 airports and below 3 km during landing and takeoff (LTO) cycles. Results indicated that current year aviation emissions increased annual average PM2.5 concentrations by 3.2 ng m−3 (0.05%) in the continental U.S. while projected 2025 aviation emissions increased annual average PM2.5 by 11.2 ng m−3 (0.20%). Ammonium nitrate aerosol was the largest contributor to the increase in PM2.5 concentrations, particularly in the future year. Using an indicator of inorganic PM2.5 change, we attributed ammonium nitrate aerosol contributions in both years to excess free ammonia (8% higher NH3 and 35% lower NOx emissions from non-aviation sources in 2025 than 2005), and higher aircraft emissions of NOx (which when converted to HNO3 forms ammonium nitrate aerosol) than SO2 (a precursor of ammonium sulfate aerosol). Our findings highlight the critical role that non-aviation emissions play in assessing the air quality impacts of aviation emissions in a future year scenario.
Stray light compensation in small area contrast measurements of projection displays

The accurate measurement of small area-black levels is important in projection display characterization. For example, techniques can be used to determine resolution of projection systems by measuring the contrast of alternating grille patterns or fully-modulated sine waves of various spatial frequencies. Unfortunately, the measurement of the contrast of these patterns may be influenced by stray light, either from ambient and reflected light in the environment, or from veiling glare scatter in the lens of the light-measuring device. Such stray-light corruption can lead to large errors in contrast determination, providing an inaccurate characterization of the projector. For large-area measurements, various techniques have been employed, including the use of frustums and masks, to minimize such unwanted effects and provide a more accurate measurement. With some modifications, these same tools may be used for small-area measurements with similar results. The design, construction, and implementation of these tools will be discussed. Results will be shown comparing small-area contrast measurements of projection systems, including resolution determination, with and without stray light compensation, for different measurement instrumentation.
Tetrodotoxin differentially blocks peak and steady-state sodium channel currents in early embryonic chick ventricular myocytes.

Single ventricular myocytes were dissociated from 3-day-old embryonic chick hearts and maintained in culture for 9–21 h. The whole-cell patch clamp method was used to record tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive fast Na+ currents. The peak Na+ current recorded at −20 mV ranged from 10 to 70 μA/cm2. At more negative potentials, a component of the current decayed very slowly, resulting in a significant steady-state or “late” Na+ current. The origin of the late Na+ current was revealed through the examination of single Na+ channel currents recorded in outside-out membrane patches. The single Na+ channel conductance was 20 pS. A high percentage of the trials (∼ 16%) displayed multiple reopenings of a single Na+ channel, resulting in bursts of current lasting for ≥150 ms. The frequency distributions of the Na+ channel open-times were bi-exponential. The burst-like mode of Na+ channel activity (which underlies the slowly- or non-inactivating currents recorded macroscopically), was blocked to a greater degree by TTX, compared to the peak current. The results suggest that differential blockade may occur as a result of the slow binding and increased affinity of TTX to the open Na channel.
The Effect of Thyroxin on Fatty Acid Biosynthesis in Brain

Fatty acid synthesis by chain elongation occurs in microsomal and mitochondrial fractions of rat brain. With myelination (13-16 days of age) the rate at which microsomal particles incorporate malonyl-CoA into saturated fatty acids characteristic for myelin is increased. The present study was undertaken to study control mechanisms of faty acid synthesis in brain. Daily injections of triiodo thyronine (60 μg/100 g body wt.) were given from age 1 day to 2 h prior to sacrifice. In the microsomal system incorporation of malonyl-CoA into fatty acids in 5-6-day-old animals was increased from 0.91±0.52 mμM/mg protein to 2,25±0.39 mμM/mg protein. The increase in precursor incorporation occureed almost entirely into saturated fatty acids. Thyroid had no significant effect on fatty acid synthesis by microsomal particles derived from animals sacrificed at other stages of development or from adult rats. Incorporation of acetyl-CoA into both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids by mitochondria was slightly increased by thyroid in adult animals and at 3-6 days of age, but the differences were not significant. These studies suggest that thyroid accelerates the normal maturational increase in microsomal fatty acid synthesis. This probably occurs by stimulating the synthesis of the enzyme system involved in the production of fatty acids characteristic for myelin.
Hydrologic changes associated with the October 28, 1983, Idaho earthquake

Significant hydrologic changes were observed after the magnitude 7.3 earthquake that occurred on October 28, 1983, in central Idaho. Groundwater levels rose by as much as 3 meters near the epicenter. Discharge in many streams and springs increased, in some instances by more than 100%. One warm spring ceased flowing for several days; the flow then resumed and peaked at about nine times its original rate. Available data show no significant changes in water quality following the earthquake.
Clinical and sonographic estimation of fetal weight performed during labor by residents

Objective This study was undertaken to assess the accuracy of both clinical and sonographic estimations of the fetal weight (EFW) performed during the active phase of labor by residents. Methods The study protocol consisted of achieving clinical, followed by sonographic EFW by the admitting resident during the active phase of labor. Patients who had an EFW (clinical or sonographic) within the last 2 weeks were excluded from the study. In addition, the effect of the following variables on the accuracy of the EFW were examined: maternal age, maternal weight and body mass index, parity, the Bishop score before obtaining the EFW, gestational age, birth weight, and the postgraduate year of the examiner. The Pearson correlation, χ 2 test, and Student t test were the statistical analyses used. We also calculated the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for clinical and sonographic EFW for detecting macrosomia (birth weight ≥ 4000 g). Results A total of 192 patients participated in this study. The coefficient of correlation between the clinical and sonographic EFW and the actual birth weight was 0.59 ( P P Conclusion Both clinical and sonographic EFW performed during the active phase of labor by residents correlate with the actual birth weight but have poor sensitivity in detecting macrosomic fetuses. Sonographic EFWs offer no advantage over clinical EFWs.
From balancer to ally? Russo-American relations in the wake of 11 september

Since the mid-1990s, Russian policy-makers have consistently rejected the American-led ‘hegemonic coalition’ of conservative powers and the unipolar international system, seeking instead to promote a multipolar international system in which the United States would be balanced and Russia could resist American domination. After the terrorist attacks of 11 September, Russia has shifted its policy away from balancing US power and toward supporting the American-led ‘war on terrorism’. This article will examine this change in policy and attempt to explain its root causes by focusing on Moscow's views of the nature of the international system. In particular, it will address the following questions: Whether Russia's international grand strategy has truly shifted from one of balancing to bandwagoning in the wake of 11 September? Whether this shift is durable? How has the dispute over Iraq affected Russia's calculations about the nature of the international system and its grand strategy?
Stoichiometry and structure of a complex of acidic ribosomal proteins

Abstract The acidic proteins B-L13 (homologous to Escherichia coli protein L7/L12) and B-L8, from the 50 S subunit of Bacillus stearothermophilus ribosomes, form a stable complex. Trypsin digestion of ribosomes generates an N-terminal fragment of B-L13 (approximately residues 1 to 47) which can associate with B-L8, displacing intact B-L13, and bind to B-L13-deficient ribosomes. Displacement of B-L13 from the B-L8 · B-L13 complex by the B-L13 N-terminal fragment causes a change in gel electrophoretic mobility of the complex, and titration of the complex with fragment indicates unambiguously that it contains four molecules of B-L13. Evidence is presented that B-L13 forms a dimer in solution, and that the dimer associates intact with B-L8. Reconstituted 50 S subunits in which B-L13 is replaced by its N-terminal fragment have the same functional properties as 50 S subunits missing B-L13 altogether: polypeptide synthesis is reduced but not abolished; ability to bind elongation factor EF-G and GTP is severely reduced; and peptidyl transferase activity and ability to associate with a 30 S subunit · Phe-tRNA · poly(U) complex are unaffected (relative to intact 50 S subunits).
Struggle: A History of “Mere” Ideas

An essay review ofThe Struggle for the American Curriculum, 1893–1958 (3rd edition).(Kliebard, Herbert M. New York: Routledge, 2004. [Original publication, 1986; 2nd edition, 1995])
Effect of group composition and pen size on behavior, productivity and immune response of growing pigs

Levels of aggression, injuries, activity, performance and immune response were determined in 288 growing pigs in a 2×2 factorial experiment; the factors being group composition and pen size. Pigs were classified as small (SM) when allotted and then reclassified as medium (MED), large (LG) and extra-large (XL) at 3 week intervals. Static groups were initiated by 12 SM pigs and they remained together for 12 weeks. Dynamic groups consisted of three pigs of each size class. Pigs were introduced into dynamic groups as SM pigs and remained there for 12 weeks, progressing up through the size classes. At 3 week intervals the three XL pigs in dynamic groups were removed and replaced with three SM pigs. Pen sizes were 9.5 m2 and 7.6 m2. Pigs were weighed weekly and gains determined. Aggression during the 4h period after regrouping was determined by 10 min of continuous observations at 20 min intervals. Ear and shoulder injuries were evaluated at 6 h, 24 h, 48 h and 144 h post-regrouping and each week thereafter. Intradermal response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) as an indicator of in vivo cellular immunity was assessed in dynamic, static and control pigs (remaining in nursery pens and not regrouped), as was plasma cortisol concentration and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (N/L). PHA was injected 1 h prior to regrouping and the response was measured at 8 h and 24 h post-regrouping. Weight gains and activity budgets over the entire trial did not differ between treatments (P>0.10). However, SM and MED pigs in static groups and XL pigs in dynamic groups gained more than their contemporaries in the other grouping treatment (P<0.05). A greater proportion (P<0.05) of pigs in dynamic groups (13.5%) were removed from test owing to poor health than in static groups (6.3%). The SM pigs in dynamic groups spent less time fighting (72.3 s per pig) during the initial 2 h after regrouping than SM pigs in static groups (196.5 s per pig) (P<0.05). In conclusion, levels of aggression following regrouping can be decreased by the use of dynamic grouping, however, this practice reduces the overall well-being of the pigs and should be avoided.
Indenting for the compiler

A simple indentation rule, indent statements from the control statement they belong to, is sufficient to express a program's block structure without the use of compound statements or closing keywords. This is proven using a PASCAL-like language (using indentation instead of BEGIN-END blocks). Using indentation alone means a programmer need not give two independent specifications of a program's block structure, thus reducing effort and eliminating a potential source of errors.
B-cell activation stimulated by monoclonal anti-Lyb2.1 antibody is mediated through a receptor distinct from the BSF-1 receptor.

Abstract The experiments in this paper demonstrate that monoclonal anti-Lyb2.1 antibody enhances the proliferative response of anti-immunoglobulin (anti-Ig)-stimulated but not of dextran sulfate-stimulated B cells. The magnitude of this enhanced B-cell proliferation is comparable to that induced by BSF-1 on anti-Ig-stimulated cells. The ability of this antibody to enhance B-cell proliferation does not result from its ability to neutralize the suppressive effects on B-cell activation that is mediated by the Fc fragment of anti-Ig antibody as it is equally as effective in enhancing B-cell proliferative responses stimulated by F(ab′) 2 fragments of anti-Ig. BSF-1 and Anti-Lyb2.1 appear to stimulate nonoverlapping pathways leading to B-cell activation since the enhanced responses induced by the combination of BSF-1 and anti-Lyb2.1 on anti-Ig-stimulated cells are additive even when maximum quantities of these activators are employed. There is also a marked difference in their activity on T cells; while BSF-1 can enhance T-cell proliferation in synergy with phorbol ester, anti-Lyb2.1 is ineffective in this regard. These data, while consistent with the suggestion that the Lyb2 surface determinant on B cells may be involved in B-cell activation, indicate that it is distinct from the receptors for BSF-1 or BCGF-II.
SURFACE MOLECULAR STRUCTURE DETERMINATION OF LITHIUM SALT OF 10,12-NONACOSADIYNOIC ACID MONOMER AND POLYMER LANGMUIR-BLODGETT FILMS BY SCANNING FORCE MICROSCOPY COMPARED TO ELECTRON DIFFRACTION RESULTS

Langmuir-Blodgett films of lithium salts of 10,12-nonacosadiynoic acid monomer (Li/16-8 DA) and polymer (Li/16-8 PDA) were characterized by scanning force microscopy (SFM or AFM) to study their surface molecular structure. Based on analysis of these images, a two-dimensional oblique unit mesh is assigned for Li/16-8 DA monomer LB film with unit mesh parameter c = 0.549 ± 0.040 nm and b = 0.541 ± 0.060 nm with an angle of 113°. A hexagonal unit mesh is assigned for Li/16-8 PDA with unit mesh parameter c = 0.497 ± 0.052 nm and b = 0.497 ± 0.060 nm. We then report the comparison of two-dimensional, fast Fourier transform (FFT) of SFM images to the electron diffraction images. From the viewpoint of a three-dimensional structure projected onto a plane, centered rectangular nets can be assigned for both Li/16-8 DA and Li/16-8 PDA. The monomer unit cell parameters are c = 0.460 ± 0.040 nm and b = 1.020 ± 0.060 nm. The polymer cell parameters are c = 0.485 ± 0.080 nm and b = 0.820 ± 0.010 nm. The correlation betw...
Optical Study of Domains in Ba(Ti,Sn)O3 Ceramics

Domain structures of Ba(Ti1−xSnx)O3 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.13) ceramics were observed dynamically under an electric field at various temperatures using a high-resolution charge-coupled-device (CCD) microscope system. The Ba(Ti1−xSnx)O3 ceramics showed a significant difference in domain structure and motion with changing composition: the domain structure became tiny and complex with increasing x, and the domain reorientation was easily induced with increasing and decreasing electric field. The results of the domain observations coincided well with electrical measurement data.
Arsenic removal from groundwater by MnO2-modified natural clinoptilolite zeolite: effects of pH and initial feed concentration.

Abstract Adsorption of arsenic (As5+) on natural and MnO2-modified clinoptilolite-Ca zeolite adsorbents was investigated to explore the feasibility of removing arsenic from groundwater using natural zeolite adsorbents. The natural and MnO2-modified clinoptilolite-Ca zeolite adsorbents were characterized with nitrogen adsorption at 77 K for pore textural properties, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence for morphology, elemental composition and distribution. Batch adsorption equilibrium experiments were conducted to study the effects of pH and initial feed concentration on arsenic removal efficiency. It was found that the amphoteric properties and arsenic removal efficiency of the natural clinoptilolite-Ca zeolite were significantly improved after modification with MnO2. The MnO2-modified zeolite could effectively remove arsenic from water at a wide pH range, and the arsenic removal efficiency that is basically independent of the pH of feed solutions varies slightly with the initial arsenic concentration in the feed solutions. The removal efficiency obtained on the modified zeolite was doubled as compared to that obtained on the unmodified zeolite. The MnO2-modified clinoptilolite-Ca zeolite appears to be a promising adsorbent for removing trace arsenic amounts from water.
Using polymorphism to improve expert system maintainability

The problems encountered in applying object-oriented programming to expert systems are described. A production system called Clasp, which addresses these difficulties, is presented. Clasp integrates methods, production rules, and terminological definitions for classes. The approach is a further generalization of Common Loops and the Common Lisp Operating System, which have all extended notion of methods in which all argument types can describe the applicability of methods. The system was designed to improve the modularity and reusability of the rule base, to support the development of a more consistent and homogeneous knowledge base, and to enhance the predictability of rules. >
Nonglacial rapid climate events: Past and future

The paleoclimate record makes it clear that rapid climate shifts of the 20th century are only a subset of possible climate system behavior that might occur in the absence of glacial conditions, and that climatic surprises could be a challenge for society even in the absence of significant greenhouse warming.
A Survey of Voice over IP Security Research

We present a survey of Voice over IP security research. Our goal is to provide a roadmap for researchers seeking to understand existing capabilities and, and to identify gaps in addressing the numerous threats and vulnerabilities present in VoIP systems. We also briefly discuss the implications of our findings with respect to actual vulnerabilities reported in a variety VoIP products.
Buried underwater target classification using frequency subband coherence analysis

This study introduces a new feature extraction method for detection and classification of buried underwater mine-like objects. Multiple sonar returns off an object are used, where each sonar return is characterized by its specific frequency subbands, which contain valuable discriminatory information that can be used to correctly determine the type of object encountered. Features are extracted from the data using canonical correlation analysis (CCA) between the selected frequency subbands of two sonar returns and are subsequently used to classify mine-like and non-mine-like objects using a simple classifier. This method offers a more rigorous way of performing acoustic color processing where ping-to-ping coherence between sonar returns is also exploited in extracting acoustic color features. This method will be tested against a previously developed time domain multiple aspect feature extraction method on a database that contains sonar returns from various buried or proud mine-like and non-mine-like objects in different operating and environmental conditions. Results will be presented in terms of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for each system and overall detection and classification performance in different operating and environmental conditions.
Inhibition of NF-κB and proteasome activity in tumors: Can we improve the therapeutic potential of topoisomerase I and topoisomerase II poisons

Activation of signaling pathways following DNA damage induced by topoisomerase (topo) poisons can lead to cell death by apoptosis. NF-κB, a major regulator of the stress response and a negative regulator of apoptosis is often activated following treatment with topoisomerase poisons. Since activation of NF-κB is generally considered to relay an anti-apoptotic signal, inactivation of this signaling molecule is considered to represent an important strategy to improve therapeutic efficacy. Although this strategy seems to be effective in some model systems, our results in human nonsmall cell lung cancers differed. In this review we will discuss the role of NF-κB in mediating topoisomerase poison-induced DNA damage and apoptosis and the consequence of inhibiting its activity. Newer insights about the importance of proteasome inhibitors and anti-apoptotic genes in topoisomerase poison-induced signaling mechanisms leading to apoptosis will also be reviewed. The knowledge obtained from these studi es may be useful for translation to a clinical setting for development of more effective therapeutic strategies.
America's Last Frontier: Reference Books about Alaska

Despite widespread interest in the resources and people of Alaska, few libraries outside of the state maintain extensive collections on these subjects. In this article, David A. Hales reviews a multifarious sample of informative materials.
Optimal control of insects through sterile insect release and habitat modification

This paper develops an optimal control framework for an ordinary differential equation model to investigate the introduction of sterile mosquitoes to reduce the incidence of mosquito-borne diseases. Existence of a solution given an optimal strategy and the optimal control is determined in association with the negative effects of the disease on the population while minimizing the cost due to this control mechanism. Numerical simulations have shown the importance of effects of the bounds on the release of sterile mosquitoes and the bounds on the likelihood of egg maturation. The optimal strategy is to maximize the use of habitat modification or insecticide. A combination of techniques leads to a more rapid elimination of the wild mosquito population.
VALIDATING SIMULATIONS OF CORE TOKAMAK TURBULENCE: CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Validating predictive models of turbulent transport in magnetically confined plasmas requires comparisons of detailed fluctuation statistics, in addition to net energy flows. Using measurements from new and improved diagnostics on the DIII-D tokamak, we have performed a series of comparisons against predictions from the GYRO code. The development and application of synthetic diagnostics that model the spatial sensitivities of a given experimental fluctuation diagnostic is essential for these comparisons. At r/a = 0.56, we find very good agreement between the predicted and measured energy fluxes and fluctuation power spectra. At r/a = 0.8, however, the simulations underpredict the energy flows by a factor of seven and fluctuation amplitudes by a factor of 3 but successfully reproduce the shapes of the experimentally measured fluctuation power spectra. At both locations significant attenuation in the synthetic power spectra and fluctuation levels is observed relative to 'unfiltered' levels. Additional results contrasting local and nonlocal simulation results and convergence in toroidal mode number spacing are presented.
Quantum efficiency measurements of photocathode candidates for back-lighted thyratrons

Light-activated pseudospark switches, also called back-lighted thyratrons (BLTs), are low pressure, high voltage (typ. 10-50 kV), high current (typ. 1-100 kA) glow-mode switches. It is of interest to develop BLTs with reliable and practical optical triggering systems for applications of compact pulsed power. This paper reports the results of research into photocathode materials for BLTs to enhance switching performance and provide optimal cathode conditions for optical triggering. Effective photocathode materials have many specific qualities, the most important being low work function, high quantum yield, and long lifetime at typical BLT operation pressures of 1.3-133 Pa (0.01-1 Torr). Photoemission measurements were conducted with 266 nm, 5 ns laser pulses in a pressure range from 4 × 10-5- 13.3 Pa (3 × 10-7 to 0.1 Torr) using helium as the background gas. Quantum efficiencies up to 1.5 × 10-5, 1.4 × 10-5, and 1.2 × 10-5 were measured for magnesium, copper, and molybdenum samples, respectively. An increase in gas pressure 4 × 10-5- 13.3 Pa (3 × 10-7 to 0.1 Torr) corresponded to an increase in quantum efficiency (QE) of 13% for magnesium and copper; the same increase in pressure corresponded to a quantum efficiency decrease of 10% for molybdenum. Square root of quantum efficiency shows a linear dependence on the square root of the sample surface's electric field due to the Schottky effect. 2D electrostatic simulation of the electric field distribution in a typical compact BLT shows that the field strengths are up to hundreds of kV/cm near the surfaces of the electrodes when a voltage potential of 30 kV is applied between the electrodes. This indicates that higher photoelectron yields can be expected when the tested photocathodes are implemented into BLTs.
Science to Practice: Why Debate the Role of Dbait for Improving Tumor Ablation?

Devun et al report that adjuvant administration of Dbait, a DNA repair inhibitor, can increase both the cytotoxicity of hyperthermia in in vitro cell lines and the effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation, resulting in increased animal survival.
Assessing Service Quality in Korean Casual-Dining Restaurants Using DINESERV

ABSTRACT This study aimed to validate the five dimensions of DINESERV and evaluate service quality of foreign-brand, casual dining restaurants in Korea using DINESERV. It was hypothesized that DINESERV is a valid instrument in the Korean culture, and service quality differs significantly based upon customers' characteristics and restaurants. The factor analysis indicated that (1) tangibles had three subdimensions, and (2) responsiveness had a substantial overlap with assurance. Restaurants in the chain displayed significantly different service qualities. Gender, average spending, and dining occasions significantly impacted the perceptions of service quality.
Indicator Qualities of the NAPM Report On BusinessR

SUMMARY Much has been written over many years concerning use of the data in the NAPM Report On Business® as economic indicators but there has not been any recent attempt to review and evaluate the research. This article reviews the representation of business activity by economic indicators, compares qualities of NAPM Report On Business® data to those desirable in indicators, summarizes previously published research on the use of NAPM data as indicators, and presents some new and previously unpublished research on this subject. The use and value of NAPM data in the development of purchasing and supply strategy is also discussed. It is concluded that NAPM data possesses many desirable indicator qualities, are useful in the analysis of business and economic activity, and have value in the development of purchasing and supply strategy.
Contributions of Anthropogenic and Natural Forcing to Recent Tropopause Height Changes

Observations indicate that the height of the tropopause—the boundary between the stratosphere and troposphere—has increased by several hundred meters since 1979. Comparable increases are evident in climate model experiments. The latter show that human-induced changes in ozone and well-mixed greenhouse gases account for80% of the simulated rise in tropopause height over 1979–1999. Their primary contributions are through cooling of the stratosphere (caused by ozone) and warming of the troposphere (caused by well-mixed greenhouse gases). A modelpredicted fingerprint of tropopause height changes is statistically detectable in two different observational (“reanalysis”) data sets. This positive detection result allows us to attribute overall tropopause height changes to a combination of anthropogenic and natural external forcings, with the anthropogenic component predominating. The tropopause represents the boundary between the troposphere and stratosphere and is marked by large changes in the thermal, dynamical, and chemical structure of the atmosphere (1–3). Increases in tropopause height over the past several decades have been iden
Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy for detection of axonal injury in the splenium of the corpus callosum of brain-injured patients.

Object. This study was conducted to determine whether proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a sensitive method for detecting diffuse axonal injury, which is a primary sequela of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Diffuse axonal injury is characterized by selective damage to white matter tracts that is caused in part by the severe inertial strain created by rotational acceleration and deceleration, which is often associated with motor vehicle accidents. This axonal injury is typically difficult to detect by using conventional imaging techniques because it is microscopic in nature. The splenium was selected because it is a site vulnerable to shearing forces that produce diffuse axonal injury. Methods. The authors used proton MRS to evaluate the splenium, the posterior commissure of the corpus callosum, in normal control volunteers and in patients with TBI. Proton MRS provided an index of neuronal and axonal viability by measuring levels of N-acetyl aspartate (NAA). Conclusions. A majority of mildly bra...
Re-reading On death & dying: what Elisabeth Kubler-Ross can teach clinical bioethics.

The best book in bioethics that I read this year was published in 1969, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross's On Death and Dying. By coincidence, a couple of days before this renowned author's death, I picked up...
Characterization of sub-mm-wave dielectric waveguide directional coupler using the FDTD method

Sub-mm/THz monolithic circuit components made of layered dielectric waveguide are characterized using the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) technique. The use of FDTD analysis allows for the characterization of these components in a very wide frequency range. Numerical results for a sub-mm wave distributed directional coupler are presented and compared to the response of an ideal coupler. >
Blockade of Digestion by Famotidine Pretreatment Does Not Interfere With the Opioid­ Enhancing Effect of Ingested Amniotic Fluid

Ingestion of placenta or amniotic fluid by rats has been shown to enhance ongoing opioid-mediated antinociception, but does not, by itself, produce antinociception. This enhancement is produced by an active substance(s) in placenta and amniotic fluid that we have termed POEF for placental opioid-enhancing factor. Previous research has shown that enhancement requires mediation by the gastrointestinal system: gastric vagotomy blocks enhancement produced by ingested placenta; amniotic fluid injected SC or IP does not produce enhancement. The present study was designed to distinguish between two possible explanations for the blockade of the POEF effect produced by gastric vagotomy: that afferent information arising in vagal gastric receptors conveys the critical information to the CNS, or that disruption of vagal efferent action on digestion blocks the manufacture or activation of the POEF molecule in the gut. Famotidine is an H2-histamine receptor antagonist that reduces gastric acid and pepsin secretion to an extent at least as great as gastric vagotomy. Rats treated with either famotidine or a vehicle were fed placenta or a control substance, then stimulated with vaginal/cervical probing to produce antinociception that is partly opioid mediated. Famotidine did not block POEF enhancement of vaginal/cervical stimulation-induced analgesia in a tail flick latency test. These results suggest that enhancement by POEF does not require normal digestive processes or other processes inhibited by famotidine.