cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rethinking ward and at-large elections in cities: Total spending, the number of locations of selected city services, and policy types

This study shows why the conventional wisdom that cities with ward elections will spend more than cities with at-large elections is too simple and explains why the empirical findings have been so mixed. Ward vs. at-large elections will only affect the policy choices of city councils when the policy choice is one that is decided by the median legislator. When the policy is one that is decided by the rule of universalism, the relevant institutional determinant of choice is the number of legislators, and not whether they are elected at-large or by wards. Universalism is politically rational for divisible policies that all constituents deisre (“pork”); the majority rule equilibrium (at the median) is more rational for divisible policies that are generally desired, but only when they are not located too close to any one constituent's home (“LULUs”). The expectation then is that larger city councils will provide more parks than smaller ones, and that election by wards or at-large will be irrelevant for these policy choices. By contrast, community centers and libraries are thought to be generally desireable, but not when they are in one's backyard. The size of the council is not predicted to be relevant for these decisions, but councils elected by wards are more likely to have a median legislator who represents geographically concentrated constituents, such as the minority poor; their preferences will have a bigger impact on councils elected by wards than on councils elected at large. Data from a sample of council-manager cities with weak mayors who have no veto uphold these hypotheses.
Fractal geometry of collision cascades

The fractal nature of self-ion collision cascades is first described using an inverse power potential and then by the more realistic potential of Biersack--Ziegler. Based on the model of Cheng et al. and TRIM Monte Carlo simulations, the average cascade fractal dimension is a function of both atomic mass and initial energy. The instantaneous fractal dimension increases as the cascade evolves. A critical energy E/sub c/ for producing a dense subcascade is derived and it is shown that E/sub c/ agrees well with the onset energy for constant damage efficiency.
A synthetic mycobacterial heat shock peptide prevents adjuvant arthritis but not proteoglycan-induced synovitis in the rat.

Intradermal immunization of female Lewis rats with 100 μg of a nine-amino acid synthetic peptide corresponding to the arthritic T cell-reactive epitope of mycobacterial heat shock protein, three weeks prior to induction of adjuvant arthritis, produced inhibition of day 16 ankle swelling and histologic score. Intraarticular injection of 10 μg of bovine articular cartilage proteoglycan monomer emulsified in heavy mineral oil into normal Lewis rat stifle joints produced serveral hallmarks of chronic synovitis at day 16. Pre-treatment with nonapeptide did not inhibit proteoglycan-induced synovitis. These results indicate that tolerance to the critical epitope of heat shock protein does not abrogate the ability of proteoglycan to induce synovitis in rats.
FATAL FAMILIAL FETAL HYPERKERATOSIS

Three male siblings dying within the first twenty-four hours of life suffered from hyperkeratosis, digital bands, knee and elbow flexion, thrombocytopenia, progressive anemia, heart block, cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, and hypoglycemia. The hyperkeratosis spared only the craniofacial area and caused thick, slightly cracking skin over the rest of the body. Symmetrical hyperkeratotic bands constricted each finger and toe at the mid-point of the first and second phalanx causing swollen digital tips. The non-specific anemia required transfusions in two of the children while the thrombocytopenia was responsible for an intraventricular hemorrhage in one child. First and second degree heart block was present in each child. Death occurred after prolonged apnea and bradycardia in each case. Post-mortem findings showed very abnormal livers with fibrosis, disarray of liver cords, and hemorrhage. Although some of the children's features can be found in the harlequin fetus, the differences are sufficient enough to suggest that the three boys represent a newly recognized inherited syndrome.
Distributed heuristics for connected dominating sets in wireless ad hoc networks

A connected dominating set (CDS) for a graph G(V, E) is a subset V' of V, such that each node in V — V' is adjacent to some node in V', and V' induces a connected subgraph. CDSs have been proposed as a virtual backbone for routing in wireless ad hoc networks. However, it is NP-hard to find a minimum connected dominating set (MCDS). An approximation algorithm for MCDS in general graphs has been proposed in the literature with performance guarantee of 3 + In Δ where Δ is the maximal nodal degree [1]. This algorithm has been implemented in distributed manner in wireless networks [2]–[4]. This distributed implementation suffers from high time and message complexity, and the performance ratio remains 3 + In Δ. Another distributed algorithm has been developed in [5], with performance ratio of Θ(n). Both algorithms require two-hop neighborhood knowledge and a message length of Ω (Δ). On the other hand, wireless ad hoc networks have a unique geometric nature, which can be modeled as a unit-disk graph (UDG), and thus admits heuristics with better performance guarantee. In this paper we propose two destributed heuristics with constant performance ratios. The time and message complexity for any of these algorithms is O(n), and O(n log n), respectively. Both of these algorithms require only single-hop neighborhood knowledge, and a message length of O (1).
First carpometacarpal arthroplasty with ligamentous reconstruction: a long-term follow-up

Background The purpose of the present study is to evaluate a single surgeon’s short, intermediate, and long-term clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes with a trapeziectomy with flexor carpi radialis (FCR) suspension arthroplasty without tendon interposition (LRSA).
Bulletin board: a scalable and robust eventually consistent shared memory over a peer-to-peer overlay

We present the design and early experience with a completely new implementation of the Bulletin Board, a topicbased distributed shared memory service employed by commercial-grade application middleware, to achieve robustness and administrative simplicity with adequate latency and costs at the required throughput and scale. To facilitate scalability, only weak consistency is provided. For robustness and ease of use, the implementation is designed in a fully peer-to-peer fashion leveraging the weakly consistent group communication services provided by a semi-structured overlay network. We discuss issues in providing good (while not perfect) stability and reliability at tolerable cost. We address scalability issues, such as supporting large numbers of processes, large subscription spaces, and complex interest patterns. We also consider comprehensive API instrumentation.
Development of the enzyme-substrate interactions concept inventory.

Enzyme function is central to student understanding of multiple topics within the biochemistry curriculum. In particular, students must understand how enzymes and substrates interact with one another. This manuscript describes the development of a 15-item Enzyme–Substrate Interactions Concept Inventory (ESICI) that measures student understanding of enzyme–substrate interactions. The validity and reliability of ESICI data were established through multiple methods. Results from the administration of the ESICI to biochemistry students across the United States (N = 707) are discussed in terms of instrument quality. The manuscript concludes with suggestions for how to use the ESICI for both teaching and biochemistry education research.
Case Study of a Barrier Wind Corner Jet off the Coast of the Prince Olav Mountains, Antarctica

AbstractThe Ross Ice Shelf airstream (RAS) is a barrier parallel flow along the base of the Transantarctic Mountains. Previous research has hypothesized that a combination of katabatic flow, barrier winds, and mesoscale and synoptic-scale cyclones drive the RAS. Within the RAS, an area of maximum wind speed is located to the northwest of the protruding Prince Olav Mountains. In this region, the Sabrina automatic weather station (AWS) observed a September 2009 high wind event with wind speeds in excess of 20 m s−1 for nearly 35 h. The following case study uses in situ AWS observations and output from the Antarctic Mesoscale Prediction System to demonstrate that the strong wind speeds during this event were caused by a combination of various forcing mechanisms, including katabatic winds, barrier winds, a surface mesocyclone over the Ross Ice Shelf, an upper-level ridge over the southern tip of the Ross Ice Shelf, and topographic influences from the Prince Olav Mountains. These forcing mechanisms induced a b...
Age-dependent mitochondrial energy dynamics in the mice heart: Role of superoxide dismutase-2

The aging process alters cardiac physiology, decreases the number of cardiomyocytes and alters the energy metabolism. Mitochondrial dysfunction in aging is believed to cause these functional and phenotypic changes in the heart. Although precise understanding of alterations of mitochondrial respiration in aging is necessary to manage heart diseases in the elderly population conflicting data on the function of specific complex of electron transport chain of the heart mitochondria limits the intervention process. We have addressed these issues using the assay of mitochondrial coupling and electron flow to assess specific functional defects in mitochondria isolated from young or aged mice. Our results demonstrate that cardiac mitochondria from older mice utilize oxygen at a decreased rate via complex I, II or IV compared to younger mice. We further show that mitochondrial function decreases in young Sod2+/− mice heart compared to young wildtype mice. However, the mitochondrial function remains unchanged in older Sod2+/− mice heart compared to younger Sod2+/− mice heart. Further, the oxygen consumption remains similar in old wildtype mice and old Sod2+/− mice heart mitochondria. The expression and activity of Sod2 in young or old Sod2+/− mice heart remain unchanged. These data demonstrate that decreased oxygen utilization in older age could have resulted in decreased mitochondrial ROS-mediated oxidative damage requiring less Sod2 for protection against mitochondrial oxidative stress in older wildtype or older Sod2+/− mice.
3-O-,4-O-Diacetylisoprotterenol and 3-O-,4-O-dibenzoylisoproterenol: Hypothermic effects in mice and the involvement of β-adrenergic receptors

Abstract Prodrugs of isoproterenol, 3-O-,4-O-diacetylisoproterenol (DAI) and 3-O-,4-O-dibenzoylisoproterenol (DBI), were tested for effects on colonic temperature in mice. Intraperitoneal injections of DAI or DBI (20, 50 and 125 μmol/kg) produced a dose-related hypothermia. Isoproterenol (125 μmol/kg) and its metabolite, 3-O-methylsoproterenol (125 μmol/kg), caused hypothermia of a lesser intensity. The involvement of β-adrenergic receptors in the hypothermic effect of DAI (50 μmol/kg) was established by pretreatments with propranolol and sotalol. The results are discussed in terms of the pharmacodynamics of prodrugs, the pharmacokinetics and mechanism of action of isoproterenol, and the possible role of β-receptors in temperature regulation. DAI and DBI may be useful as prodrugs for the activation of central β-receptors.
Modelling Sandstone Acidizing by Image Processing

The reactivity of acid with rock in an acidizing process depends on the abundance and the geometrical arrangement of various minerals with respect to each other. A model is developed to compute the rate of acid consumption and the change in rock porosity as a function of time. The minerals are located in accordance with thin section images. Under specified reaction kinetics, real time simulation of mineral dissolution is conducted graphically on a computer. Since the rate of reaction of each mineral is known, an erosion process is used to update the image of the rock as a function of time. This procedure can be recorded by a series of images and the porosity, permeability and cumulative acid consumption can be computed. It is shown that this model can provide substantially different results than a simple model that is based only on the mineral abundance in the rock matrix. In some cases this can have a significant impact on acidizing simulators that are currently used. Such simulators do not use petrographic information on the relative location of minerals in modelling acid consumption rates.
Transverse vibrations of a clamped spinning membrane.

Transverse vibrations of spinning disk clamped by central hub, noting hub to disk radius ratio effect on frequency parameter
Inherent limitations and control design for camless engine idle speed dynamics

SUMMARY The idle speed control problem of a spark-ignited engine equipped with a camless valvetrain is considered. The camless valvetrain allows control of the individual intake and exhaust valves of each cylinder and can be used to achieve unthrottled operation, and consequently, optimize the engine performance. We formulate the speed control problem for this engine and show that it exhibits unstable open-loop behaviour with a signi"cant delay in the feedback loop. The instability is intrinsic to the unthrottled operation and speci"c to the camless actuation used to achieve the unthrottled operation. The delay is caused by the discrete combustion process and the sensor/computer/actuator interface. We demonstrate the inherent system limitations associated with the unstable dynamics and the delay and provide insight on the structural (plant) design that can alleviate these limitations. Finally, stabilizing controllers using classical and modern robust design techniques are presented and tested on a nonlinear simulation model. Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Prospective Evaluation of an Algorithm Incorporating Routine Preoperative Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration in Suspected Pancreatic Cancer

Whether tissue diagnosis is required in the preoperative evaluation of patients with suspected pancreatic cancer remains controversial. We prospectively evaluated the accuracy, safety, and potential impact on surgical intervention of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) in the preoperative evaluation of suspected pancreatic cancer. All patients who underwent EUS-FNA at our institution (n = 547) over a 4.5-year period were enrolled. Patients underwent surgical exploration and resection based on their comorbidity status, evidence of resectability based on spiral computed tomography (CT) and EUS imaging reviewed in a multidisciplinary approach. Of 547 patients enrolled (median age 64 years, 60% male), 49% presented with obstructive jaundice. The operating characteristics of EUS-FNA of solid pancreatic masses were: sensitivity 95% (95% CI: 93.2–95.4), specificity 92% (95% CI: 86.6–95.7), positive predictive value 98% (95% CI: 97–99), negative predictive value 80% (95% CI: 74.9–82.7). The overall accuracy of EUS-FNA was 94.1% (95% CI: 92.0–94). Of the 414 true positive patients by EUS-FNA, 138 (33%) were explored. Of patients deemed operable by combined imaging, 42% had surgical resection. Eighty-two percent of true positive patients were ultimately found inoperable and received palliative therapy or chemotherapy. Of the 94 patients with true negative cytology based on extended follow-up, only 7 (7%) underwent surgical resection. Of those with false negative diagnoses (n = 24), 5 patients underwent exploration/resection based on detection of mass lesions by EUS. The remaining patients had unresectable disease. Mild self-limiting pancreatitis occurred in (0.91%). EUS-FNA is a safe and highly accurate method for tissue diagnosis in suspected pancreatic cancer. This approach allows for preoperative counseling of patients, minimizing surgeon’s operative time in cases of unresectable disease, and avoids surgical biopsies in the majority of patients with inoperable disease. In addition, it allows for conservative management of patients with benign biopsies. We still, however, recommend exploration of patients with clinical scenario suspicious for pancreatic cancer, a mass found on EUS or CT, but inconclusive or negative cytology.
Bag-model quantum chromodynamics for hyperons at low energy

In a non-perturbative bag model framework, gluon exchange which mediates quark exchange scattering in conjunction with quark interchange is shown to be the basis of the OBE interactions of hyperons at low energy.
The restricted isometry property and its implications for compressed sensing

Abstract It is now well-known that one can reconstruct sparse or compressible signals accurately from a very limited number of measurements, possibly contaminated with noise. This technique known as “compressed sensing” or “compressive sampling” relies on properties of the sensing matrix such as the restricted isometry property . In this Note, we establish new results about the accuracy of the reconstruction from undersampled measurements which improve on earlier estimates, and have the advantage of being more elegant. To cite this article: E.J. Candes, C. R. Acad. Sci. Paris, Ser. I 346 (2008).
Cerebral perfusion in acute stroke prognostication Go with the flow, or know with the quo?

Most patients improve after stroke. But when dealing with individuals, clinicians are challenged to predict whether, how much, and how soon that particular patient will recover. The best predictive tool for at least 40 years has been the presenting clinical examination—the odds and the extent of recovery decrease roughly proportionally to the initial clinical severity.1,2 Newer technologies incorporated into the stroke workup have enabled neurologists to forecast more accurately individual stroke outcomes. Imaging and quantifying the “real estate factor”—infarct location and size—adds some confidence to stroke outcome prediction.3 But how much does this information really tell us that we do not already know from examining the patient? More importantly, can we develop algorithms that not only improve prognostication, but also inform treatment? Enter vascular- and flow-based imaging technologies. Visualizing acute large-vessel occlusion guides the use …
The Effect of Adding a Second Helicopter on Trauma-Related Mortality in a County-Based Trauma System

Objectives. Despite conflicting evidence regarding its efficacy, helicopter transportation of trauma victims is widespread. We determined the effect of adding a second helicopter to a countywide emergency medicine system on trauma-related mortality. Methods. A before-and-after trial design was used to compare hospital mortality before and after introducing a second helicopter to the eastern end of Suffolk County, New York, in 2001 aimed at reducing transport times to the regional trauma center. Outcomes before and after introducing the second helicopter were compared with parametric or nonparametric tests as appropriate. Results. A total of 1,551 trauma patients were included in this study from June 1996 to May 2006, with 705 in the single-helicopter period and 846 in the two-helicopter period. Mean ages, gender distributions, and mean Injury Severity Scores (ISSs) were similar between groups. Total mortality significantly decreased after the addition of the second helicopter (16.2% before vs. 11.9% after...
Silver cycles: The stocks and flows project, part 3

The quantitative assessment of the flows of materials from resource extraction to final disposal informs resource policy, energy planning, environmental science, and waste management. This article reports the technological cycles of silver worldwide and in representative countries for 1997. Most silver is produced in conjunction with other metals; only a quarter of world production is from silver ore. Industrial applications account for 40% of silver use. While about a third of world use goes into jewelry, tableware, and the arts, silver cycles through the world economy to recycling faster than metals such as copper and zinc. Despite decreasing use in photography, demand for silver continues to increase.
A brain bug's life

Imagine you are attending a large scientific convention and you spot a smiling individual waving at a distance. While this person is quickly approaching, you are anxiously jogging through your memory and trying desperately to identify him. You recognize his face as familiar, but you can’t place the name! Our brains are a wonderful piece of machinery that allows us to execute our goals through communication and action via a complicated and majestic network of neurons. Even so, at times it seems as if some of the simplest actions, such as recalling a familiar individual's name, can falter without warning.
Silica Depletion in Lake Michigan: Verification Using Lake Superior as an Environmental Reference Standard

A mixing model based on the regression of silica concentrations on specific conductance was used to predict silica concentrations in the outflowing waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior on 21 cruises conducted from 1954 to 1980 in northern Lake Huron where chemical characteristics are determined by mixtures of the two source waters. Specific conductance @ 25°C can be used in the mixing model because it varies from 95 μS•cm−1 in Lake Superior waters to 267 μS•cm−1 in Lake Michigan waters. Results show that silica concentrations in the outflow of Lake Michigan in 1954 were comparable to the Lake Superior concentrations (ca. 2.0 mg•L−1) but were reduced to <0.4 mg•L−1 in summer cruises beginning in 1968. These results provide strong evidence that silica concentrations in the outflowing waters of Lake Michigan decreased at least 2.0 mg•L−1 from 195 to 1971. Confidence can be given to this postulated decrease in concentration because the accuracy of data used in these analyses was verified by comparisons with the relatively invariate silica concentration in Lake Superior.
Computer simulation in physics

The use of graphic visualization in physics is discussed. The limitations of purely mathematical approach and the intuitive understanding to be gained by a graphic demonstration are discussed. It is suggested that the visualization approach be used in teaching physics, and the use of graphics simulation to understand diffusion and electrical conduction is examined. >
Exponential Models, Maximum Likelihood Estimation, and the Haar Condition

Abstract Let f(x) be a probability density function with respect to the non-atomic measure μ, over the set χ. Suppose f(x) = exp [Σ m i = 1 τiϕi(x) − ψ m (τ)] for × ∈ χ, where ψ m (τ) = ψ m (τ1, τ2, …, τm ) is well-defined by exp [ψ m (τ)] = ∫ exp [Σ m i = 1, τiϕi,(x)] dμ(x) when the right side is finite, and the integration is over χ. Let ϕ0(x) ≡ 1 on χ and assume {ϕi(X)} m i = 0 is a collection of functions which satisfy the Haar Condition. Using convexity properties, we obtain some results on the almost sure existence or nonexistence of the MLE for τ.
Perturbation studies of flames by changes in composition

Abstract The nature of perturbations created by abrupt changes in composition and their effects on flame propagation have been investigated for ethylene-air mixtures in a 1 in. square flame tube. The time required for the flame to establish a new linear velocity in a mixture of given composition and flame speed, after propagating through a preceding mixture of either higher or lower flame speed, was determined. When propagation was from a slow to a fast flame-speed mixture, oscillations in flame structure and velocity along with accompanying pressure disturbances were observed across the transition region. A small pressure decrease but no oscillatory behaviour was observed for propagation from a fast to a slow flame-speed mixture.
Thrombospondin-1 restrains neutrophil granule serine protease function and regulates the innate immune response during Klebsiella pneumoniae infection

Thrombospondin-1 restrains neutrophil granule serine protease function and regulates the innate immune response during Klebsiella pneumoniae infection
Design strategy of small topographical guiding templates for sub-15nm integrated circuits contact hole patterns using block copolymer directed self assembly

Block copolymer (BCP) directed self-assembly (DSA) is a promising extension of optical lithography for patterning irregularly positioned contact holes of integrated circuits. The small topographical templates are shown to guide the self-assembly off the natural geometry by strong boundary confinement [1-2], and has been demonstrated to pattern 22nm random logic circuits using [2-3]. Here we present a general template design strategy that relates the DSA material properties to the target technology node requirements and experimentally demonstrated DSA contact hole patterning for half adders at the 14 nm and 10 nm nodes.
Beyond Patriotic History

Marion Wallace with John Kinahan, (Auckland Park, South Africa, Jacana Media, 2011), xxi +451 pp, R199.96 paperback, ISBN 9-78-1-77009-8879 The memories and struggles of Namibia's two million citiz...
When is enough, enough? A comment on Grodzinsky and Marek's "Algorithmic and heuristic processes revisited".

Abstract In this comment I argue that although Y. Grodzinsky & A. Marek's (1983, Brain and Language, 33, 216–225) criticism of the conclusions reached by A. Caramazza and E. B. Zurif (1976 , Brain and Language, 3, 572–582) in their paper on comprehension disorders in so-called agrammatic patients is not entirely without technical merit, its impact on the claims made by Caramazza and Zurif is inconsequential. I show that there are deeper theoretical and methodological reasons which undermine the claims made by Caramazza and Zurif and the only superficially different proposal of Grodzinsky and Marek.
Ventilation Strategy Affects Neutrophil Elastase Activity in Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) Fluid

Ventilation Strategy Affects Neutrophil Elastase Activity in Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) Fluid
Compact Image Slicing Spectrometer (ISS) for hyperspectral fluorescence microscopy.

An image slicing spectrometer (ISS) for microscopy applications is presented. Its principle is based on the redirecting of image zones by specially organized thin mirrors within a custom fabricated component termed an image slicer. The demonstrated prototype can simultaneously acquire a 140nm spectral range within its 2D field of view from a single image. The spectral resolution of the system is 5.6nm. The FOV and spatial resolution of the ISS depend on the selected microscope objective and for the results presented is 45 × 45µm2 and 0.45µm respectively. This proof-of-concept system can be easily improved in the future for higher (both spectral and spatial) resolution imaging. The system requires no scanning and minimal post data processing. In addition, the reflective nature of the image slicer and use of prisms for spectral dispersion make the system light efficient. Both of the above features are highly valuable for real time fluorescent-spectral imaging in biological and diagnostic applications.
The secondary correction of post-traumatic craniofacial deformities.

Objective To analyze the aesthetic and functional outcomes in a large series of patients who underwent secondary correction of post-traumatic craniofacial deformities (PTCD) and to highlight the underlying principles and formulate treatment guidelines. Methods A single surgeon's retrospective case series of 57 patients who underwent correction of PTCD. Outcome Measures Evaluation by multiple surgeons who assessed aesthetic results and functional parameters after secondary correction of PTCD. Results A good to excellent aesthetic outcome was achieved in the majority of patients. Traumatic telecanthus, enophthalmos, and occlusal deformity were the deformities most refractory to secondary correction. Aesthetic results were adversely affected by the severity and number of pre-existing abnormalities and by the presence of established deformities (beyond 6 to 12 months). Conclusions The basic principles of treatment include an initial major osseous reconstructive surgery to restore an anatomically correct craniofacial architecture followed by selective ancillary procedures to address soft tissue deficits and functional deformities. Soft tissue deformity is the major deterrent to achieving an ideal outcome.
Projector-Camera Guided Fast Environment Restoration of a Biofeedback System for Rehabilitation

This paper deals with the issue of fast and accurate physical environment restoration in a real time biofeedback system for stroke patient rehabilitation. The biofeedback system provides an interactive multimodal environment for patients to practice functional therapeutic reaching and grasping tasks, while receiving different types of feedback which indicate measures of performances and information for subsequent movements. The development of such a system will reduce rehabilitation time, promote more extensive recovery and alleviate rehabilitation monotony.
Radiation therapy of post-mastectomy patients with positive nodes using fixed beam tomotherapy

Abstract Purposes To develop an optimized dosimetric class solution for post-mastectomy irradiation for fixed beam tomotherapy (FBT). Methods and materials CT simulation scans from 10 post-mastectomy patients were used to generate plans with planning target volumes (PTVs) that included the chest wall, axillary nodes and supraclavical nodes using FBT and helical tomotherapy (HT) with 3D and IMRT modes and the resultant dosimetry was compared to conventional IMRT. FBT IMRT plans were analyzed with both 4 (4FBT) and 11-field (11FBT) plans. Important organs at risk (OARs) included the heart, ipsilateral and contralateral lungs, esophagus and contralateral breast. In all plans, the spinal cord and contralateral lung were completely blocked while the heart and ipsilateral lung were directionally blocked. Doses to the contralateral breast were minimized. Each plan was evaluated for its delivery time, percentile volume of lung receiving x Gy ( V x ) and dose received by x percent volume ( D x ). D 1 and D 5 were used to measure the maximum dose to the OAR or PTV, D 95 and D 99 were used to measure the minimal dose to the PTV. Results Compared to the conventional IMRT technique, HT IMRT, 11FBT IMRT and 11FBT 3D significantly reduced the D 1 of the heart in cases of left-sided tumors by 13%, 41% and 36%, and the V 10 of ipsilateral lung in all cases by 26%, 49% and 46%, respectively. A close to 90% reduction in the contralateral breast dose was also observed with the 11FBT plans. Target dose homogeneity of 11FBT 3D plans is inferior to that of the HT and conventional IMRT plans but the treatment delivery time, 7.59min, was significantly shorter by 3min. 4FBT IMRT resulted in clinically unacceptable heterogeneity with high dose regions in both the PTV and normal tissue. Conclusions A class solution based on an 11 beam configuration was established to optimize the dosimetry of fixed beam tomotherapy planning for post-mastectomy patients. The 11FBT plans were deliverable in clinically efficient treatment times.
Phosphate release contributes to the rate-limiting step for unwinding by an RNA helicase

RNA helicases function in numerous aspects of RNA biology. These enzymes are RNA-stimulated ATPases that translocate on RNA and unwind or remodel structured RNA in an ATP-dependent fashion. How ATP and the ATPase cycle fuel the work performed by helicases is not completely clear. The hepatitis C virus RNA helicase, NS3, is an important model system for this class of enzymes. NS3 binding to a single-/double-strand RNA or DNA junction leads to ATP-independent melting of the duplex and formation of a complex capable of ATP-dependent unwinding by using a spring-loaded mechanism. We have established an RNA substrate for NS3 that can be unwound in a single sub-step. Our studies are consistent with a model in which a single ATP binding and/or hydrolysis event sets the unwinding spring and phosphate dissociation contributes to release of the spring, thereby driving the power stroke used for unwinding.
An evaluation of the Sequoia-Turner Cell Dyn 900.

Summary A formal evaluation of the Sequoia-Turner Cell Dyn 900, a compact eight-parameter semi-automated blood cell counter, was carried out in a small paediatric haematology laboratory. The instrument's precision, linearity and carry-over were adequate. Comparison with a Coulter ZF6 system plus visual platelet count showed good agreement, and results in the UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme also compared well with ‘all methods’ values. Throughput was assessed at 54 eight-parameter counts per hour. The machine proved to be reasonably economical, highly reliable and easy to operate. It was popular with staff and can be recommended, particularly for the smaller laboratory.
Critical properties of the exchange interaction model of ferromagnetism

Abstract For the f.c.c. lattice k B T c / J = 1.19 + 5.70 Y -1 for all S and γ = 0.48 + 2.16 Y -1 for S > 1 2 where Y = 2 S +1. The value of γ(=1.41) for S = 1 2 is anomalous with respect to extrapolation of the observed linear behaviour in Y -1 for other spins.
Angle-resolved photoemission study of thin molecular-beam-epitaxy-grown α-Sn 1-x Ge x films with x~0.5

Utilisation de la spectroscopie de photoemission avec un rayonnement synchrotron pour l'etude de la structure electronique de films epitaxies metastables des alliages α-Sn 1-x Ge x . L'analyse de la photoemission des niveaux de coeur indique une tendance a la formation d'un complexe avec une composition voisine de x∼ 0.5. Les spectres montrent un deplacement de la bande de valence 8 de 0.6 eV dans Ge (100) vers 0.16 eV en dessous de E F dans α-Sn 0.48 Ge 0.52 . Determination du gap dans un modele de bande lineaire
Spinal projections of the gigantocellular reticular formation in the rat. Evidence for projections from different areas to laminae I and II and lamina IX.

We have used the autoradiographic method to study the organization of spinal projections from the gigantocellular reticular nucleus in the rat. Of particular note was the evidence obtained for projections to laminae I, II and IX. Reticular projections to laminae I and II arise more rostrally in Gi than those to lamina IX. Projections to laminae III–VIII and X as well as to autonomic nuclei have also been documented. Our results suggest that the gigantocellular reticular nucleus of the rat can be subdivided on connectional grounds.
Nuclear Binding of Estrogen-Receptor Complex: Receptor-Specific Nuclear Acceptor Sites

The estrogen receptor (ER) of hen oviduct cytosol was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and heparin- agarose chromatography for use in cell-free nuclear binding assays. Under conditions of constant protein concentration, the ER displayed a high affinity, saturable binding to purified hen oviduct nuclei in a cell-free assay. The nuclear binding was shown not to be due to exchange with endogenous nuclear estrogen receptors. Low ionic strength and excess protein, which lowers the effective ionic strength, were found to result in nonsaturable binding, obscuring the saturable high affinity nuclear binding sites for ER. Proteolytic activity also caused an increase in binding due to destruction of proteins that mask many binding sites. The nuclear binding displayed tissue specificity, with maximal binding to oviduct nuclei, intermediate binding to liver and kidney nuclei, and little or no binding to spleen, lung, and erythrocyte nuclei. Scatchard analysis of the cell-free binding revealed a single class...
Differentiation of propeptide residues regulating the compartmentalization, maturation and activity of the broad-range phospholipase C of Listeria monocytogenes

The intracellular bacterial pathogen Listeria monocytogenes secretes a broad-range phospholipase C enzyme called PC-PLC (phosphatidylcholine phospholipase C) whose compartmentalization and enzymatic activity is regulated by a 24-amino-acid propeptide (Cys28-Ser51). During intracytosolic multiplication, bacteria accumulate the proform of PC-PLC at their membrane-cell-wall interface, whereas during cell-to-cell spread vacuolar acidification leads to maturation and rapid translocation of PC-PLC across the cell wall in a manner that is dependent on Mpl, the metalloprotease of Listeria. In the present study, we generated a series of propeptide mutants to determine the minimal requirement to prevent PC-PLC enzymatic activity and to identify residues regulating compartmentalization and maturation. We found that a single residue at position P1 (Ser51) of the cleavage site is sufficient to prevent enzymatic activity, which is consistent with P1' (Trp52) being located within the active-site pocket. We observed that mutants with deletions at the N-terminus, but not the C-terminus, of the propeptide are translocated across the cell wall more effectively than wild-type PC-PLC at a physiological pH, and that individual amino acid residues within the N-terminus influence Mpl-mediated maturation of PC-PLC at acidic pH. However, deletion of more than 75% of the propeptide was required to completely prevent Mpl-mediated maturation of PC-PLC. These results indicate that the N-terminus of the propeptide regulates PC-PLC compartmentalization and that specific residues within the N-terminus influence the ability of Mpl to mediate PC-PLC maturation, although a six-residue propeptide is sufficient for Mpl to mediate PC-PLC maturation.
Separation of multiple molecular forms of cyclic adenosine-3',5'-monophosphate phosphodiesterase in rat cerebellum by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

Abstract The soluble supernatant fraction of rat cerebellar homogenates was subjected to electrophoresis on a preparative polyacrylamide gel column, and the eluted fractions were analyzed for phosphodiesterase activity. We found six distinct peaks of phosphodiesterase activity (designated I to VI according to the order in which they emerged from the column) and a discrete fraction containing a potent activator of phosphodiesterase. These peaks of phosphodiesterase activity had different enzymic properties. Thus the activator of phosphodiesterase increased the activity of Peak II about 4-fold and the activity of Peak VI about 2-fold, whereas the activities of Peaks I, III, IV and V were unaffected by the activator. Calcium increased the activity only of Peak II. The six peaks of phosphodiesterase also had markedly different stabilities, Peaks III IV and VI being the least stable having a half-life of about one day when stored at 4 °C. A comparison of these results with those obtained with astrocytoma and neuroblastoma cells suggests that the different molecular forms of phosphodiesterase may reside in different cell types.
Bone marrow-derived cells participate in the long-term remodeling in a mouse model of esophageal reconstruction.

Abstract Background The default response of the esophagus to injury includes inflammation and scar tissue formation often leading to stricture. Biologic scaffolds composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) have been associated with the reconstitution of functional esophageal tissue in preclinical studies and clinical case reports of esophageal mucosal resection, anastomotic reinforcement, and full circumferential replacement. However, the mechanisms responsible for this change in the default response to esophageal injury are not fully understood. Methods The objective of the present study was to determine whether bone marrow–derived cells (BMCs) participate in the long-term remodeling of ECM scaffolds in the esophageal location in a mouse model. Results BMCs were present in low numbers in remodeling ECM scaffolds. Compared with the untreated control mice, the ECM-implanted animals showed better remodeling of the epithelial layer. Conclusions BMCs are involved in ECM remodeling process during tissue repair after esophageal injury, but the low numbers argue against any significant involvement in the constructive remodeling process.
THE NEUROMUSCULAR MECHANISM OF STRIDULATION IN CRICKETS (ORTHOPTERA: GRYLLIDAE)

1. The neuromuscular mechanism of stridulation has been studied in four species of field crickets. 2. The operation of the exoskeleton has been investigated by direct and neuronastimulation of muscles and by manipulation of the isolated exoskeleton; the wings are closed by lowering the tergum and opened by subalar, basalar and tergopleural sclerites acting outside the wing pivot. 3. Muscle action potentials recorded from freely moving animals during stridulation show the following: ( a ) In the calling or aggressive song pulses, the closing stroke is produced by the medial dorsoventral muscles; the opening stroke is produced by the basalars and subalars. ( b ) The ‘tick’ of the courtship song is produced by simultaneous contraction of the medial dorsoventral muscles; the subalars and some of the basalars are active during the soft pulse phase of the courtship song but not during the "tick". ( c ) Evidently, the first dorsal longitudinal is active during the "tick" and closing; the second is active in opening and in the soft pulse phase of courtship. 4. The upstroke of flight is homologous to the closing stroke of stridulation.
Male Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence: Support for Health Care Interventions Targeted at Level of Risk

The mental health correlates of male aggression or violence against an intimate partner (IPV) are examined using exploratory cluster analysis for 81 men who self-reported risk factors for IPV perpetration on a computer-based health risk assessment. Men disclosing IPV perpetration could be meaningfully subdivided into two different clusters: a high pathology/high violence cluster, and lower pathology/low violence cluster. These groups appear to perpetrate intimate partner violence in differing psychoemotional contexts and could be robustly identified using multiple distinct analytic methods. If men who self-disclose IPV in a health care setting can be meaningfully subdivided based on mental health symptoms and level of violence, it lends support for potential new targeted approaches to preventing partner violence perpetration by both women and men.
Collaboration in R&M applications

Time-to-market durations are shrinking, straining the ability to perform thorough Reliability & Maintainability (R&M) tasks during product development. This paper suggests that collaboration is a more effective model than team-based approaches for successful R&M efforts in these situations. The paper describes how R&M software vendors and the R&M community can enhance collaboration to shorten product development times and enhance the quality of the product.
The scientific basis for eliminating folic acid-preventable spina bifida: a modern miracle from epidemiology

One of the most remarkable successes of epidemiology was the demonstration in the late twentieth century that spina bifida and anencephaly-two of the most common and severe birth defects-are caused primarily by folate deficiency. This article reviews the descriptive epidemiological studies that began when we did not have a clue about etiology. The paper tells the success story of the trials that proved that folic acid would prevent folic-acid-preventable spina bifida. Finally, it will tell how difficult it is to get prevention policy implemented, even when the scientific evidence is compelling. It concludes by noting that the inaction or inappropriate actions of food regulatory bodies in so many countries means that only 10% of folic-acid-preventable spina bifida is actually being prevented--a serious failure of public health policy.
Electronic content development for engineering distance learning

Global engineering teams must work across borders and cultures while applying best practices. To distribute these practices globally, distance learning and online electronic methods can be employed to provide engineering courses where none were traditionally available before. The technology can also be used to increase engineering enrollment by partnering with schools that cannot provide an accredited engineering program. Course availability can now reach minority, foreign, and non-traditional students, who might otherwise not have access to an engineering education. The School of Engineering & Computer Science of Baylor University, in conjunction with the Texas Engineering and Technical Consortium and partner colleges, has started deployment of the introductory engineering courses in a distance learning form. This paper describes the development of electronic content for the second semester course "Introduction to Engineering Analysis. This paper presents the selection of technologies and the methods by which the actual content was prepared. Beta testing and student feedback were employed to make modifications to the presentation methodology and content. The most significant lesson learned is that the student cannot be expected to work in isolation, but must be mentored on a regular basis. Other lessons learned and future application conclude the paper.
Is the Physical Being Taken out of Physical Education? On the Possible Effects of High-Stakes Testing on an Embattled Profession's Curriculum Goals.

Building on recent discussions regarding how current national standards for physical education promote cognitive outcomes over physical outcomes, the authors explore how a new era in high-stakes testing is also contributing to an emphasis on the cognitive, over the physical. While high-stakes testing has been linked to reducing the amount of physical education schools offer, less attention has been given to the newest phase of high-stakes testing: the use of student achievement test data to evaluate teachers. To explore how this new high-stakes testing may influence physical education curriculum goals, the authors examine new teacher evaluation policies in New York State. The authors then propose an alternative rational for physical education. By promoting the physical—physical activity, exercise, and structured physical movement through physical education programming—physical education can play a unique and key role in creating the conditions for both student cognitive development and improved public health.
Cubane: Ausgangsverbindungen für die Chemie der neunziger Jahre und des nächsten Jahrhunderts

Die Untersuchung von Verbindungen, die in der Natur nicht vorkommen, hat viel zum Verstandnis der Bindungsverhaltnisse und der Reaktivitat in der Organischen Chemie beigetragen. Oft erhielt man im Laufe dieser Untersuchungen Substanzen, die man fur undenkbar gehalten hatte. Das Cuban, ein Meilenstein in der Welt „unmoglicher” Verbindungen, zeigt eine reichhaltige Chemie voller unerwarteter Aspekte. Die vor kurzem begonnene Renaissance der Cubanchemie, die durch mogliche Anwendungen von Cubanverbindungen – beispielsweise als sehr energiereiche Treibstoffe – ausgelost wurde, hat zu vielen neuen Erkenntnissen gefuhrt. So wurde z. B. die erste Methode zur systematischen Substitution gespannter gesattigter Verbindungen und ein neuer Reaktionstyp der Metallierung von Arenen, der ortho-Magnesiierung, entwickelt. Reaktive Zwischenprodukte mit ausergewohnlichen Bindungs-parametern wurden charakterisiert: 1(9)-Homocuben, das Olefin mit der starksten Verdrillung; Cuben, das Olefin, mit der starksten Pyramidalisierung; das Cubyl-Kation, das einmal als das am wenigsten wahrscheinliche Kation gegolten hatte; das Cubylmethylradikal, ein gesattigtes Radikal, das sich innerhalb von Picosekunden umlagert, und viele andere auserge-wohnliche Verbindungen. Sicherlich werden zukunftige Arbeiten auf dem Cubangebiet mindestens genauso viele – wahrscheinlich sogar mehr – Ergebnisse hervorbringen und zu einem tieferen Verstandnis der Chemie beitragen.