cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influences of Microstructure Defect Size and Distribution for Performance Optimization of Thermal Barrier Coatings

Thermal barrier coatings are often used to protect a component by reducing temperature excursions. Such coatings are in use on engineered products such as turbine blades. The work presented is part of a broader effort that is focusing on new and novel processing techniques for thermal barrier coatings. Manufacturing methods are being developed to create microstructures that optimize thermal protection while not degrading the mechanical properties of the coating. Sufficient mechanical properties are necessary so the coatings do not fail as a result of loadings associated with the operation of the component. One fabrication method investigated is the inclusion of spherical micron-sized pores to reflect heat radiation at high temperatures along with nano-sized grains to reflect phonons thus providing thermal protection. Pores are sized and distributed so that sufficient mechanical strength is maintained. In the current work the model material used is a yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ). Two-dimensional microstructures representing YSZ are computationally generated. The size and distribution of defects that have been experimentally observed to develop during bulk processing are incorporated into the computationally generated microstructural models. Heat transfer and stress-displacement analyses are performed to determine effective bulk material properties. Comparisons are made to experimental measurements available in the literature as appropriate. The influence that defect dimensions and distributions have on the effective bulk material properties are quantified as a first step understanding the impacts that micron sized pores, voids and cracks have on thermal and mechanical characteristics which will facilitate optimizing the microstructure for thermal protection and strength retention.
Comparison of the Single-Syringe Push-Pull Technique With the Discard Technique for Obtaining Blood Samples From Pediatric Central Venous Access Devices

The discard technique is the most widely used method of obtaining blood samples from patients with central venous access devices (CVADs), but risks removing more blood than is necessary for laboratory testing and may increase a patient's risk of anemia. We hypothesized that laboratory results from pediatric blood specimens obtained via CVAD using the single-syringe push-pull (formerly called the mixing) method and the discard method would be similar. Blood samples were obtained from pediatric oncology patients in a hospital setting using both collection methods and laboratory values were analyzed for concordance using the pairwise t-test, intraclass correlation coefficient, and Bland-Altman analysis methods. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences for sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, creatinine, calcium, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet count, but these differences were not clinically significant and within the standard error of measurement for the instrument. Given the similarity in laboratory results, the push-pull method should be considered for obtaining blood samples from CVADs in pediatric patients to avoid unnecessary blood loss.
An Exploration of Latina/o Respondent Scores on the Personality Assessment Inventory

Despite broad agreement regarding the need for multicultural considerations in applied practice, to date there continues to be a relative scarcity of research on underrepresented groups and personality assessment. This exploratory study is an initial comparison of non-clinical Latino (N = 97) and European American (EA) (N = 123) college students on selected scales of the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI; Morey 1991). Latinos were hypothesized to produce higher scores than EAs on PAI scales reflecting worldview, spirituality, fatalism, family orientation, interpersonal style, experience of stress, and social environment. The selected PAI scales addressed socially desirable responding (Positive Impression Management - PIM); approach to completing the PAI (Infrequency - INF); health concerns (Somatic Complaints - SOM); traumatic and phobic endorsement (Anxiety Related Disorders - ARD); hypervigilance, persecution, and resentment (Paranoia - PAR); unusual and bizarre conceptions and beliefs (Schizophrenia - SCZ); perceived lack of social support (Non-Support - NON); current or recent life stressors (Stress - STR); relational style (Interpersonal Warmth - WRM); and an overall measure of psychological distress (Mean Clinical Elevation - MCE). Results revealed Latinos produced significantly higher scores than EAs on the INF, ARD, PAR, SCZ, NON, and STR scales. Contrary to hypothesis, EAs produced higher WRM scores. Overall, even in this non-clinical student sample, when compared to EAs, the Latino participants produced scores indicative of greater psychological distress and psychopathology (MCE). This exploratory study can inform future research with Latinos and the PAI and offers considerations and cautions for clinical use of the measure.
Abstract 28: Identifying mechanisms of PD-L1 regulation in HNSCC

Evidence of immunosuppression is frequently reported in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Thus, there has been growing interest in advancing therapies for HNSCC that relieving immunosuppression to permit anti-tumor immunity. The immune checkpoint inhibitor Pembrolizumab targets the coinhibitory PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which serves to shield tumor cells from attack by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. While Pembrolizumab was recently approved for the treatment of metastatic and recurrent HNSCC, the initial trial reported overall response rates of only 18%. A more comprehensive understanding of the intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms inducing PD-L1 expression on tumor cells may reveal therapeutic targets that improve response to immune modulation. We have employed a high-throughput genetic screen to identify targetable signaling pathways that may regulate PD-L1 expression in patients with specific genetic lesions. The Genome-scale CRISPR Knock-Out (GeCKO) library, established in multiple HNSCC cell lines, consists of a pool of stable knockouts targeting >20,000 genes with representation of approximately 300 gRNAs per target gene. Sub-populations with enhanced or diminished expression of PD-L1 were sequenced to identify gRNA targets whose knockout causes a change in PD-L1 expression. We expect that by performing these screens across multiple cell lines with diverse genetic lesions, pathways consistently regulating PD-L1 expression will be revealed, and that targeting such pathways will provide novel avenues for modulating this immunosuppressive mechanism. Citation Format: Jacqueline E. Mann, Megan Ludwig, Aditi Kulkarni, Rebecca Hoesli, Judy Kafelghazal, Alexey Nesvizhskii, J. Chad Brenner. Identifying mechanisms of PD-L1 regulation in HNSCC [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-AHNS Head and Neck Cancer Conference: Optimizing Survival and Quality of Life through Basic, Clinical, and Translational Research; April 23-25, 2017; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2017;23(23_Suppl):Abstract nr 28.
Salmonella enterica Contamination of Market Fresh Tomatoes: A Review.

ABSTRACT Salmonella contamination associated with market fresh tomatoes has been problematic for the industry and consumers. A number of outbreaks have occurred, and dollar losses for the industry, including indirect collateral impact to agriculturally connected communities, have run into the hundreds of millions of dollars. This review covers these issues and an array of problems and potential solutions surrounding Salmonella contamination in tomatoes. Some other areas discussed include (i) the use of case-control studies and DNA fingerprinting to identify sources of contamination, (ii) the predilection for contamination based on Salmonella serovar and tomato cultivar, (iii) internalization, survival, and growth of Salmonella in or on tomatoes and the tomato plant, in biofilms, and in niches ancillary to tomato production and processing, (iv) the prevalence of Salmonella in tomatoes, especially in endogenous regions, and potential sources of contamination, and (v) effective and experimental means of deco...
Restoration and Stewardship Volunteerism

Recent scholars writing on the topic of ecological restoration propose a holistic view of ecosystem restoration wherein both ecosystem needs and human needs must be considered in the design and implementation of restoration projects. Such a view suggests that both ecosystems and restoration practitioners benefit from restoration projects (Higgs 2003; Clewell and Aronson 2006, 2007; Light 2008). Within this reciprocal relationship, humans contribute ecological knowledge, techniques, participation, and commitment that benefit degraded ecosystems (see chap. 18, this volume). Conversely, involvement in restoration projects contributes to human well-being in a variety of ways including restoring ecosystem values, such as biodiversity and natural capital. Such actions also provide participants with psychological, physiological, economic and spiritual benefits, including learning new things, connecting with the natural environment, earning a living, doing something worthwhile, making amends for human-caused environmental damage, and realizing personally renewing experiences (Miles, Sullivan, and Kuo 2000; Clewell and Aronson 2006; chap. 16, this volume). Geist and Galatowitsch (1999) among others suggest that, while critical to successful ecological restoration, scientific knowledge alone cannot ensure success. Ongoing human participation and commitment are critical to ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of restoration projects.
Biochemistry of the Methylcoenzyme M Methylreductase System

The reduction of 2-(methylthio)ethanesulfonate (CH3-S-CoM) is catalyzed by the methylreductase, also known as component C. The prosthetic group of component C is a Ni tetrapyrrole. In its active form, the methylreductase can reductively demethylate CH3-S-CoM by itself using N-7-mercapto-heptanoyl-O 3-phospho-L-theornine (HS-HTP)as a reductant and produce CH4 and CoM-S-S-HTP, the heterodisulfide of 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate (HS-CoM) and HS-HTP. However, such active preparations of component C are unstable, and “inactive” methylreductase needs other enzymatic fractions as well as ATP. The number of enzymatic fractions needed varies with the nature of the electron donor. When H2 is used as the sole source of electrons, at least four enzymatic fractions (Al, A2, A3a and A3b) are required in addition to component C. In this complex system, HS-HTP cannot act as the sole source of electrons and still requires the presence of H2 to reductively reactivate the methylreductase. If H2 is used in conjunction with substrate amounts of HS-HTP, the requirement for Al is bypassed, indicating that Al is involved in the regeneration of HS-HTP from CoM-S-S-HTP, probably through the F420- reducing hydrogenase. If titanium citrate is used as the sole source of electrons, the requirements for H2 and for A3b, which contains the methylviologen hydrogenase, are bypassed. Our current model for the reactivation of the methylreductase proposes that A2 catalyzes an ATP-dependent allosteric modification of A3a, an FeS protein, lowering the mid-point potential of its FeS centers to values enabling it to reduce the nickel atoms in the methylreductase from NiII to NiI.
Innovative Strategies for Building Community Among Faculty Who Teach in Virtual Environments

A previous qualitative study (Schwartz, Wiley, & Kaplan, 2016) described the faculty experiences and reflections of delivering Master of Social Work (MSW) education via a virtual platform at the University of Southern California, Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work during its initial years of operation. Thematic analysis revealed a need for community building amongst geographically diverse faculty. Given social work’s emphasis on the person-in-environment perspective, it is imperative to consider the experiences of those individuals responsible for executing virtual technology-supported programs and delivering education via virtual platforms. The current paper describes innovative institutional and programmatic interventions implemented to promote community and collaboration among faculty who teach virtually. Creating strategic opportunities for virtual and ground-based faculty to connect informally and formally has the potential to foster a culture of inclusivity, connection, and a productive community of practice.
Robust Cell Imaging Through Anderson Localizing Optical Fiber based on Deep Learning

Robust artifact-free cell imaging is demonstrated by combing a meter-long Anderson localizing optical fiber with deep learning using incoherent illumination. The tolerance to fiber bending can reach ∼3 degrees for high-fidelity cell-image transport. © 2019 The Author(s)
Intra- and Intersubspecialty Variability in Lumbar Spine MRI Interpretation: A Multireader Study Comparing Musculoskeletal Radiologists and Neuroradiologists.

Abstract Background and Purpose The purpose of this study is to assess the differences in degenerative spine MRI reporting between subspecialty-trained attending neuroradiologists and musculoskeletal radiologists (MSK) at a single institution, academic medical center. Materials and Methods Fifty consecutive outpatient noncontrast lumbar spine examinations were selected from the Picture Archiving and Communication System. Three MSK and 3 neuroradiologists (NR) independently reviewed and interpreted the exams at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels in the same manner as in clinical practice. The assessment of neural foraminal stenosis (NFS) and spinal canal stenosis (SCS) was converted to a 5-point ordinal scale. The assessment of lateral recess stenosis (LRS) and facet osteoarthritis (FO) was recorded as present/absent. Intersubspecialty and intrasubspecialty analysis was performed using Cohen's kappa coefficient with a binary matrix of all reader pairs. Results There was moderate intersubspecialty agreement (k = 0.527) for NFS and SCS (k = 0.540). Intersubspecialty agreement was slight for LRS (k = 0.0818) and FO (k = 0.176). The MSK group demonstrated greater intrasubspecialty agreement in assessment of NFS and SCS compared to the NR group, with nonoverlapping confidence intervals. The NR group demonstrated greater nominal intrasubspecialty agreement in the assessment of both LRS and FO, although with nonoverlapping confidence intervals. Conclusion There is moderate intersubspecialty agreement between MSK radiologists and neuroradiologists in reporting the severity of NFS and SCS, although MSK radiologists demonstrated greater intrasubspecialty agreement. There is slight intersubspecialty agreement for LRS and FO. The demonstration of differences in inter-reader agreement is a crucial first step to attempt to ameliorate these variabilities.
Maximin Designs for Ultra-Fast Functional Brain Imaging

Functional brain imaging experiments allow researchers to study the inner workings of the human brain, and are widely conducted in many fields. An important experimental design issue for such an experiment is the selection of a sequence of mental stimuli that allows us to collect informative data for making precise and valid statistical inferences. However, obtaining a good stimulus sequence can be challenging, especially when brain mapping technology with a high temporal resolution is employed. In this work, we focus on such ultra-fast functional brain imaging studies, and propose an efficient approach for obtaining high-quality stimulus sequences by taking the uncertainty of the autocorrelation of the response into account. The performance of our proposed approach is demonstrated via case studies.
Roles of singleton tryptophan motifs in COPI coat stability and vesicle tethering

Coat protein I (COPI)-coated vesicles mediate retrograde transport from the Golgi to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), as well as transport within the Golgi. Major progress has been made in defining the structure of COPI coats, in vitro and in vivo, at resolutions as high as 9 A. Nevertheless, important questions remain unanswered, including what specific interactions stabilize COPI coats, how COPI vesicles recognize their target membranes, and how coat disassembly is coordinated with vesicle fusion and cargo delivery. Here, we use X-ray crystallography to identify a conserved site on the COPI subunit α-COP that binds to flexible, acidic sequences containing a single tryptophan residue. One such sequence, found within α-COP itself, mediates α-COP homo-oligomerization. Another such sequence is contained within the lasso of the ER-resident Dsl1 complex, where it helps mediate the tethering of Golgi-derived COPI vesicles at the ER membrane. Together, our findings suggest that α-COP homo-oligomerization plays a key role in COPI coat stability, with potential implications for the coordination of vesicle tethering, uncoating, and fusion.
Is it all in the details? Description content and false recognition errors

In three experiments, we examined the effect of embellished content on memory errors for thematically related items as well as whether an encoding manipulation, specifically instructions to visualize content, further affects those errors. Using a modified Deese-Roediger-McDermott (DRM) paradigm, participants listened to subsets of DRM items embedded within scene descriptions. Some descriptions embellished item connections, weaving them into cohesive scenes. Other descriptions only made general reference to scenes, mentioning the items in list-like format. Listening to more detailed descriptions, compared to general scene references, elicited higher false recognition errors (Experiments 1 and 3). However, when description details varied within the same encoding series, as expected, false recognition errors did not differ significantly (Experiments 2 and 3). Results further suggest that more detailed content was more vividly imagined, providing one possible mechanism for increases in false recognition (Experiment 3). Implications for theoretical discussions of encoding task effects on false recognition errors are discussed.
Introspecting the Office of the Special Prosecutor's Act and Ghana's Constitutional Framework on Anti-Corruption

There exists broad consensus that the reality and persistence of corruption under the 1992 Ghanaian Constitution undermines the ongoing attempt at democratic consolidation and responsible governanc...
SP3 Limit of the 2D/1D Transport Equations with Varying Degrees of Angular Coupling

Two-dimensional/one-dimensional (2D/1D) methods have become popular for solving the 3D Boltzmann neutron transport equation on medium-to-large computing platforms. These methods can have a wide ran...
Use of Sonomyography for Continuous Estimation of Hip, Knee and Ankle Moments During Multiple Ambulation Tasks *

Accurate user intent recognition is vital to the success of achieving volitional control of rehabilitation robotics. Real-time ultrasound (US) imaging of skeletal muscle, or sonomyography, is an alternative noninvasive sensing mechanism for device control. The objective of this study was to evaluate sonomyography for continuous estimation of hip, knee and ankle-joint moments during multiple ambulation tasks. Ten able-bodied subjects completed level, incline and decline walking while equipped with a portable US transducer on their anterior thigh. Multiple time-intensity features were extracted from US images of the knee extensor muscles collected during the three ambulation tasks. Hip, knee and ankle moments were continuously estimated by Gaussian process regression models in both fully subject-dependent and partially subject independent frameworks. A two-way analysis of variance was completed to assess the effect of subject independence as well as joint level (hip/knee/ankle) on the moment estimation. Subject Dependent regression models resulted in the lowest error for estimation of hip, knee and ankle moment during all three ambulation tasks in comparison to partially subject-independent regression models (p<0.01). Remarkably, within the subject dependent regression models there was no significant difference in the mean error of moment estimation when comparing across the three joints, with mean percent errors as low as 0.74%, 0.68%, and 3.02% for the hip, knee, and ankle, respectively. Despite only capturing sonomyographic features from the anterior thigh, this high-dimensional sensing data can be used to accurately estimate changes in both proximal and distal joint kinetics during varying ambulation tasks.
Skill or Secret? -- The Line Between Trade Secrets and Employee General Skills and Knowledge

As agents, employees owe a duty of loyalty and confidentiality to their current and former employers not to use or disclose proprietary confidential information, which can be protected as a trade secret. Nevertheless, former employees are free to use general knowledge, skills, and experience acquired on the job without incurring liability for trade secret misappropriation. This rule is tied to the need to protect competition and employee mobility. However, the line between employer trade secrets and employee general knowledge and skills acquired during employment is not always clear and the courts have not always been consistent in differentiating between the two. This article details the results of a study to explore the factors relied upon by courts in reaching their determinations.
New implementations for the ASPEN clinical guidelines and a call for protocol review on the nutrition guidelines for adult head and neck cancer.

The current article details new upgrades to the guideline methodology including the publication of 'a priori' protocols, methods for assuring agreement between reviewers, adoption of Covidence software for tracking reasons for article exclusion, the establishment of a separate bias panel to improve study quality assessment, an algorithm for study design inclusion, and Delphi Technique implementation for the management and external validation of expert opinion. These methodologic additions will provide greater transparency and accountability for the choices made during the guideline development process. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Signaling and transcriptional networks governing late synovial joint development

Background: During synovial joint development, cavitation marks the end of the emergence of new cell types and the onset of the consolidation of cell type specific programs. However, the transcriptional programs that regulate this crucial stage prior to joint maturation are incompletely characterized. Gdf5-lineage cells give rise to the majority of joint constituents such as articular cartilage, meniscus, ligament, and tendon. Therefore, to explore pre-maturation of the synovial joint, we performed single cell RNA-Seq analysis of 1,306 Gdf5-lineage cells from the murine knee joint at E17.5. Results: Using computational analytics and in situ hybridization, we identified nine sub-states contributing to articular cartilage, meniscus, cruciate ligament, synovium, lining, and surrounding fibrous tissue. We identified a common progenitor population that is predicted to give rise to ligamentaocytes, articular chondrocytes, and lining cells. We further found that while a large number of signaling pathways orchestrate the differentiation of this progenitor to either ligamentocytes or to lining cells, only continued FGF signaling guides these cells to a default chondrocyte fate. Conclusions: Our single cell transcriptional atlas is a resource that can be used to better understand and further study synovial joint development and the reactivation of embryonic programs in diseases such as osteoarthritis.
Performance Evaluation of Real-Time ROS2 Robotic Control in a Time-Synchronized Distributed Network

Modern robots are mainly controlled by monolithic black-box controllers provided by the individual manufacturers. In research institutions the first version of the Robot Operating System (ROS1) is widely used for different applications. However, ROS1 lacks real-time capable communication. The ongoing development of ROS2 promises to break this paradigm. By employing Data Distribution Service (DDS) as a middleware the modular architecture aims at providing realtime capabilities. This study assesses the current prospects and limitations of ROS2. It gains novel insights towards improved and, in particular, reliable results regarding latencies and jitter. To this end, the allocation and transmission of ROS2 messages is evaluated in an example application for robotic control. An oscilloscope is applied for external validation of the measurements in such a time-synchronized distributed network. The complete application is set up from non-real-time object detection towards real-time control via ROS2 and EtherCAT. An in-depth evaluation of the ROS2 communication stack on a single host and in distributed setups is included. With real-time safe memory allocation and highly privileged ROS2 processes real-time capabilities are ensured.
Prenatal exposure to a mixture of phthalates accelerates the age-related decline in reproductive capacity but may not affect direct biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation of female mice.

Phthalates are used in many consumer products, leading to daily human exposure. Although many studies focus on single phthalates, humans are exposed to mixtures of phthalates. Our laboratory created a phthalate mixture consisting of six different phthalates and found that it negatively affected female reproduction and accelerated some biomarkers of reproductive aging. However, it was unknown if prenatal exposure to the mixture accelerates the natural decline in reproductive capacity and ovarian aging in mice. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to a phthalate mixture accelerates the age-related decline in reproductive capacity and biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation of mice. Pregnant CD-1 dams were orally dosed with control or phthalate mixture (20 µg/kg/day-200 mg/kg/day) daily from gestational day 10-birth. The F1 female pups were aged to 11-13 months, and then estrous cyclicity and breeding trials were conducted at 11 and 13 months. Ovaries were collected from the F1 females at 13 months to examine biomarkers of ovarian aging. Prenatal exposure to the phthalate mixture decreased the time the F1 females spent in proestrus and the ability of the F1 females to give birth at 11 and 13 months of age compared to control. In contrast, prenatal exposure to the mixture did not affect biomarkers of direct aging of the ovary in the F1 generation. Collectively, our data show that prenatal phthalate mixture exposure accelerates the natural age-related decline in reproductive capacity but may not affect some biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation.
Therapeutic targeting of COP1, a negative regulator of p53 and c-Jun, in hepatocellular carcinoma

713 We have recently identified a general overexpression of the constitutive photomorphogenic 1 (COP1) gene, a E3 ubiquitin ligase, in primary human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and HCC derived cell lines. COP1 is thought to exert its effects in tumorigenesis by regulating the activities of p53 and c-Jun via ubiquitination. Given the significance of p53 and c-Jun for hepatocarcinogenesis, in this study we have examined the effects of COP1 gene knockdown on cell growth and apoptosis using human HCC cell lines. To inactivate COP1 gene, Huh7 and HepG2 cells were treated with various doses of three different siRNAs (COP1-1, COP1-2, and COP1-3) directed against COP1. Cell growth was analyzed by MTT assay and apoptosis was estimated by ELISA for detection of ssDNA and caspase activation. The expression of COP1 target gene was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, the anti-tumor effect of siRNA approach was evaluated in vivo using a model of subcutaneous transplantation of COP1 transfected cells into nude mice. Among the three tested siRNA molecules, the COP1-1 siRNA was the most effective in inhibiting HCC cell growth. Both Huh7 and HepG2 cells transfected with 15nM of COP1-1siRNA showed more than 80% growth inhibition by 4 days. Inhibition of cell growth was due to increased rate of apoptotic cell death which was about 3-fold higher than in untreated control cells. Upregulation of apoptosis directly correlated with down-regulation of COP1 mRNA level. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated silencing of COP1 expression in Huh7 cells completely abrogated their ability for tumor formation in vivo. Taken together, these results show that COP1 is an important regulator of HCC cell growth and survival, and therefore may represent a potential target for human HCC treatment.
CITIZENS AND PROJECT DESIGN: MANAGEMENT TEAM

The presence of a swampy, largely undeveloped area near downtown Toledo, Ohio has had an adverse effect on the social and economic conditions in the surrounding neighborhoods. In 1971, plans were proposed for industrial development and multifamily housing units in the Buckeye Basin, together with a four-lane parkway through that area. Citizens reacted unfavorably to this development proposal. In 1972, they began to organize to promote their objective of recreational facilities. The parkway was generally recognized as an essential element of any plan. Citizen interest, which originated from a desire for recreational development, ultimately resulted in a "management team" for parkway design, in which citizen members are in the majority. Public officials and consultant representatives also are on the "team." The management team is believed to be unique because of the early stage at which citizen participation developed and because of the important role which citizens play in planning and design decisions.
Law, Technology and the Sea

R ECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY have been matched by sweeping changes in the world community. Diverse techniques of social and political organization seek to cope with the "revolution of rising expectations." Racial fears and suspicions are exacerbated by technological advances which seem to mock the efforts of "have-not" states to lessen the gap which separates them from the technological powers. New forms of cooperation, such as regional associations, are appearing while at the same time the forces of nationalism and especially the preoccupation with military security remain strong. International law attempts to serve as an impartial framework of reference for the processes of claim and decision. It seeks to limit the choice of alternative policies and methods of implementation to those most likely to enhance values shared by most members of the world community and therefore least likely to disrupt public order. From a sociological viewpoint, international law is, in our present age of machine technology, a form of technique. The strains on this technique are especially clear with respect to the allocation and management of resources and unoccupied space. Here, international law must reconcile diverse national interests by means of equitable and rational solutions. To be fully rational these solutions must also accommodate themselves to the overriding value of efficiency inherent in modern technology. As problems of allocation and management become more technical in nature, the logic of efficiency will be applied more rigorously. As traditionally structured, international law conflicts with this emerging "hypertechnical logic."' This article will explore one aspect of this conflict by examining the significant changes taking place now and in prospect in the law of the sea.
Guided EM waves in anisotropic dielectric plates

Guided EM waves in an infinite dielectric plate with general crystal symmetry surrounded by free space are studied in terms of the three-dimensional Maxwell's equations. To exhibit how the crystal symmetry affects the propagation and coupling of the waves, the study is divided into four cases: (I) beta /sub 11/, beta /sub 22/, beta /sub 33/ not=0; (II) beta /sub 11/, beta /sub 22/, beta /sub 33/, beta /sub 12/ not=0; (III) beta /sub 11/, beta /sub 2(inf)/ beta /sub 33/, beta /sub 23/ not=0; (IV) all beta /sub ij/ not=0; where beta /sub ij/ is the impermeability tensor referred to the rectangular axes x/sub i/ with the x/sub 2/ axis normal to the plate faces. For each case, closed-form solutions are obtained, and dispersion relations and modes are computed and studied. It is found that in case 1, solutions can be separated into the TE and TM waves. TE and TM waves can be further separated into the symmetric and antisymmetric waves. In case II, the solutions for the TE waves remain the same as those in case I. However, TM waves can not be separated into symmetric and antisymmetric waves. In case III, solutions cannot be separated into the TE and TM waves, but they can still be separated into the symmetric and antisymmetric waves. In case IV, solutions can neither be separated into the TE and TM waves nor into the symmetric and antisymmetric waves. >
Secure key establishment in the presence of a passive eavesdropper: Impact of antenna coupling

While the establishment of encryption keys based on reciprocal electromagnetic propagation has received recent attention, work has so far ignored the impact of mutual coupling. This paper formulates the rate at which key bits can be generated incorporating the effects of antenna mutual coupling and a passive eavesdropper that is close to one of the radios.
Hypergeometric series well-poised in SU(n) and a generalization of Biedenharn's G-functions

Abstract We prove that Holman's hypergeometric series well-poised in SU(n) satisfy a general difference equation. We make use of the “path sum” function developed by Biedenharn and this equation to show that a special class of these series, multiplied by simple products, may be regarded as a U(n) generalization of Biedenharn and Louck's G(Δ; X) functions for U(3). The fact that these generalized G-functions are polynomials follows from a detailed study of their symmetries and zeros. As a further application of our general difference equations, we give an elementary proof of Holman's U(n) generalization of the 5F4(1) summation theorem.
Analysis of algorithms implemented in software and hardware

The area of "software physics and algorithmic complexity" is providing some much needed quantization of the notions of a program and an algorithm. I am interested in those aspects of this quantization that allow one to estimate the length of an algorithm programmed in one language given the length of the same algorithm programmed in another language.
Pancreatic cancer in vitro toxicity mediated by Chinese herbs SPES and PC-SPES: implications for monotherapy and combination treatment

Abstract One of the greatest challenges in the treatment of pancreatic cancer remains its inherent lack of beneficial response to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Chinese herbal extracts have been widely used for the treatment of various cancers, but objective information on their efficacy in pancreatic cancer is lacking. Eight human pancreatic cancer cell lines (MIA, Panc-1, BxPC, ASPC, HS-766T, CaPan-2, CFPAC, and HTB-147) were studied for in vitro susceptibility to ethanol extracts of SPES and PC-SPES, two quality-controlled, dried, encapsulated supplements of 15 and eight Chinese herbs, respectively. Resulting toxicities, alone and in combination with doxorubicin or gemcitabine, were analyzed by [3H]thymidine incorporation or sulforhodamine B staining, colony formation, and TUNEL flow cytometry assays. Combination toxicity mechanisms were calculated by the combination index method of Chou and Talalay. In all cell lines, there was dose-dependent inhibition of proliferation. By [3H]thymidine incorporation assay, 50% growth inhibition after 48 h continuous exposure (IC50) occurred at concentrations of 0.2–0.8 μl/ml SPES and 0.4–1.3 μl/ml PC-SPES. Growth inhibition was accompanied by a significant enhancement of the TUNEL-positive apoptotic fraction of all cell lines after treatment with either extract. After treatment with PC-SPES, the cell lines consistently displayed a G2 cell cycle block; SPES induced an increase in S phase, with a smaller impact on G2. When added at a concentration of 0.2 μl/ml (∼IC20), both extracts enhanced Panc-1 cell killing mediated by doxorubicin, with an average decrease in the corresponding IC50 of 33% (range 11–62%). Combination effects with either extract appeared to be antagonistic in the case of gemcitabine and additive to mildly synergistic in the case of doxorubicin. Both SPES and PC-SPES exhibited significant toxicity in pancreatic cancer cells, mediated via induction of apoptosis. Both mixtures should be evaluated for their in vivo and clinical therapeutic utility as monotherapy agents against pancreatic cancer. SPES could possibly be combined with cell cycle-independent cytotoxic drugs. Due to a consistent G2 blocking pattern, PC-SPES may prove useful as a radiation sensitizer.
Lipid synthesis from [14C]-acetate by two subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes and Coptotermes formosanus

Abstract Eleven to eighteen days after removing either one protozoan, Trichonympha agilis , or all protozoa except T. agilis from worker termites of Reticulitermes flavipes these termites were able to incorporate similar amounts of radioactivity from sodium [1,2- 14 C]-acetate into lipids as were normally faunated termites. However, the 14 C incorporated into lipids by the abnormally faunated termites was not distributed among lipid components in the same way as in the normally faunated termites. Triglycerides, the predominant lipid class ( Mauldin , 1977; Mauldin et al. , 1978), extracted from abnormally faunated termites had lower levels of 14 C incorporated into them than triglycerides from normally faunated termites. Also, the abundance of oleic acid, the predominant fatty acid in normally faunated termites, was lower in lipids extracted from termites eighteen days after removing some or all protozoa than in lipids extracted from normally faunated termites. Therefore, the quantity of some lipids synthesized, as judged by the incorporation of radioactivity from [ 14 C]-acetate into lipid carbon, was lower in R. flavipes termites lacking certain symbiotic protozoan species than in normally faunated termites. Using the same criteria phospholipids were synthesized equally well by normally faunated R. flavipes and those termites lacking some or all normal protozoa. Coptotermes formosanus worker termites lacking either the protozoan Pseudotrichonympha grassii , all symbiotic protozoa, or all bacteria, were able to incorporate radioactivity from [1,2- 14 C]-acetate into lipids. After eighteen days, the amount of 14 C incorporated into various lipids extracted from termites lacking some or all protozoa was generally lower than that from lipids extracted from normally faunated termites. Therefore, as judged by incorporation of 14 C from acetate into lipids, C. formosanus termites lacking either hindgut bacteria or one or all symbiotic protozoan species did not synthesize lipids from acetate to the same extent as did normal termites. Evidently hindgut bacteria and symbiotic protozoa not only function to break cellulose down to acetate but also affect in some way the conversion of acetate into most lipids.
Specialized Coordinate Representation for Dynamic Modeling and Orbit Estimation of Geosynchronous Orbits

This study investigates dynamic modeling and orbit estimation of geosynchronous satellites using traditional and specialized orbit representations. Exact nonlinear variational equations for generally perturbed synchronous elements are developed via Poisson brackets. A hybrid element set is also introduced to avoid numerical sensitivities. Numerical propagation studies evaluate the precision and accuracy of inertial Cartesian, Keplerian, synchronous, and hybrid element dynamic models. The suitability of approximating the synchronous element equations of motion for small eccentricity and inclination values is assessed. Results show that the hybrid and exact synchronous models are consistent for large and small time steps and are of comparable accuracy to the inertial Cartesian model. The hybrid element model is further validated via an estimation analysis that processes multiple nights of experimental optical data of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite 8. The results show that the hybrid elements are suitable for geosynchronous dynamic modeling and estimation.
Neuroendocrinological and neurochemical effects of sigma ligands.

Abstract The potential antipsychotic agents BMY 14802, remoxipride, tiospirone and gevotriline (WY 47,384) have a relatively high affinity for sigma binding sites in brain tissue. In the present study, the effects of these sigma ligands on concentrations of prolactin and corticosterone in serum in the rat were investigated. In addition, the effects of these agents on the synthesis and/or release of dopamine from tuberoinfundibular and nigrostriatal neurons were determined. Concentrations of prolactin and corticosterone in serum were increased dose-dependently by BMY 14802, tiospirone, remoxipride and gevotriline. The activity of tyrosine hydroxylase within the terminals of tuberoinfundibular dopamine neurons in vivo also was increased by BMY 14802, tiospirone and gevotriline, but not by remoxipride. The extracellular concentrations of dopamine and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid in the striatum, as determined by in vivo microdialysis, were increased by BMY 14802 (5–20 mg/kg, s.c.) and remoxipride (3 mg/kg, s.c.). These data suggest the involvement of sigma receptors in the regulation of secretion of prolactin and corticosterone, as well as the activity of tuberoinfundibular and nigrostriatal dopamine neurons. Moreover, the pattern of neurochemical and neuroendocrinological responses to these sigma ligands resembled those which have been determined previously for atypical antipsychotics and support the contention that these sigma ligands may be antipsychotic agents with an atypical profile of action.
Fabrication of chromium oxide nanoparticles by laser-induced deposition from solution

Abstract We have successfully deposited well-dispersed nanoscale chromium oxide particles by laser-induced solution deposition (LISD) from solution with CrCl2 and organic solvents. The particles have narrow distributions about three sizes: 230, 350 and 400 nm and are uniform in composition and contain little contamination. We show that LISD is a new technique for producing nanoparticle chromium oxides with uniform composition, controllable size and high yield.
Effect of g-jitters on the stability of rotating bubble under microgravity environment

The instability of liquid and gas interface can be induced by the pressure of longitudinal and lateral accelerations, vehicle vibration, and rotational fields of spacecraft in a microgravity environment. Characteristics of slosh waves excited by the restoring force field of gravity jitters have been investigated. Results show that lower frequency gravity jitters excite slosh waves with higher ratio of maximum amplitude to wave length than that of the slosh waves generated by the higher frequency gravity jitters.
Protein surface recognition by rational design: nanomolar ligands for potassium channels.

The rational design and development of four-fold symmetrical ligands for potassium channels is described.
Relationship of neonatal withdrawal to maternal methadone dose.

Neonatal withdrawal is described for a sample of 70 infants born to addicted women treated with methadone and comprehensive prenatal care. Although symptoms were manifested by over 90% of the infants, those born to women receiving near-term average doses of ≤20 mg/day had significantly less symptomatology, weight loss, and need for pharmacologic treatment than those of mothers still on higher doses. Reduction of methadone dose levels during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy to ≤20 mg/day appears to reduce the severity of neonatal withdrawal.
Rationing just medical care

U.S. politicians and policymakers have been preoccupied with how to pay for health care. Hardly any thought has been given to what should be paid for--as though health care is a commodity that needs no examination--or what health outcomes should receive priority in a just society, i.e., rationing. I present a rationing proposal, consistent with U.S. culture and traditions, that deals not with "health care," the terminology used in the current debate, but with the more modest and limited topic of medical care. Integral to this rationing proposal--which allows scope to individual choice and at the same time recognizes the interdependence of the individual and society--is a definition of a "decent minimum," the basic package of medical treatments everyone should have access to in a just society. I apply it to a specific example, diabetes mellitus, and track it through a person's life span.
Technology-Mediated Relationships in a Socio-technical System

This work presents an exploratory study of the different types of technology-mediated relationships that are formed in a sociotechnical system. More people each day are connecting with each other through social networks, online communities, and other forms of virtual environments. This study offers a framework for understanding how technology, user interactions, and user relationships are connected within a sociotechnical system, and uses this framework to uncover the kinds of interactions that take place in such systems and the relationships that are constituted by these interactions.
Multisensor Image Processing Integration For Missile Guidance

Combined multisensor display concepts for man-in-the-loop navigation and target detection/recognition in attack aircraft and operator guided missiles were developed and evaluted against multifunction and multidisplays. The analytical and experimental (using simulated FLIR and radar sensors) data studied under this ONR sponsored effort indicated that combined multisensor displays may offer significant improvements in mission profiles by permitting all weather and nighttime operation, improving navigation, permitting lower altitude operation, increasing the number of targets detected and recognized improving weapon delivery, reducing pilot workload and reducing display space. In conclusion, combined multisensor displays provide a high-leverage technique (significant improvements with a minimum investment) to improve the operator interface with aircraft and missile. The improved interface may provide significant improvements in mission profiles.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Ganglioneuroblastoma in adults.

Abstract Ganglioneuroblastoma is a rare neoplasm of adults. Some information about the natural history and response to therapy can be obtained from two cases seen recently at our hospital and 17 cases in the literature. These tumors occur in adults of any age and are usually located in the retroperitoneum, mediastinum, or neck. Evidence of the tumor may be present years before diagnosis. Elevations of urinary catecholamines were documented in three cases and the levels correlated with progression or resection of the neoplasm. The tumor spreads either by local invasion or distant metastasis. Attempts at radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the treatment of unresectable or disseminated tumor has not resulted in objective improvement. This contrasts with the widely reported objective successes and cures of ganglioneuroblastomas occurring in childhood. Surgical excision of localized disease was the only curative therapeutic modality in the cases we reviewed.