cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
To Compete or Retreat? The Global Diffusion of Precision Strike

After the publicized use of precision strike weapons in the First Gulf War, analysts predicted that they would spread rapidly around the world. In fact, it has happened much slower than predicted. To explain this puzzle, this paper draws on a novel dataset tracking country-level acquisition of eight aspects of the precision strike complex from 1989 to 2017. The results show that supply-side factors—like a state’s technological capacity and defense relationships with key exporters—significantly affect the likelihood of states developing advanced precision strike capabilities. Demand-side factors like interstate security threats also play an important role, but not in the way traditionally theorized. We find an inverted-U relationship between security threats and proliferation. When states have rivals or neighbors with moderate precision strike capabilities, they have security incentives to compete with them. However, when states face highly advanced adversaries, they have a tougher time competing, and thus have incentives to shift resources to other defense strategies.
Polarized Vector Oscillons

Oscillons are spatially localized, time-periodic and long-lived configurations that were primarily proposed in scalar field theories with attractive self-interactions. In this letter, we demonstrate that oscillons also exist in the low-energy effective theory of an interacting massive (real) vector field. We provide two types of vector oscillons with vanishing orbital angular momentum, and approximately spherically symmetric energy density, but not field configurations. These are: (1) "directional" oscillons (linearly polarized), with vanishing total intrinsic spin, and (2) "spinning" oscillons (circularly polarized) with a macroscopic instrinsic spin equal to $\hbar\times$ number of particles in the oscillon. In contrast to the case with only gravitational interactions, the two oscillons have different energy at a fixed particle number even in the nonrelativistic limit. By carrying out relativistic $3+1$d simulations, we show that these oscillons can be long-lived (compared to the oscillation time for the fields), and can arise from a range of Gaussian initial spatial profiles. These considerations make vector oscillons potentially relevant during the early universe and in dark photon dark matter, with novel phenomenology related to their polarization.
Effect of ammonia on the synthesis and function of the N 2 -fixing enzyme system in Clostridium pasteurianum.

The N2-fixing system of Clostridium pasteurianum operates under regulatory controls; no activity is found in cultures growing on excess NH3. The conditions which are necessary for the synthesis and function of this system were studied in whole cells by using acetylene reduction as a sensitive assay for the presence of the N2-fixing system. Nitrogenase of N2-fixing cultures normally can fix twice as much N2 as is needed to maintain the growth rate. When cultures that have grown for four or more generations on NH3 exhaust NH3 from the medium, a diauxic lag of about 90 min ensues before growth is resumed on N2. Neither N2-fixing nor acetylene reduction activity can be detected before growth is resumed on N2. N2 is not a necessary requirement for this synthesis since under argon that contains less than 10−8m N2, the N2-fixing system is made. If NH3 is added to N2-dependent cultures, synthesis of the enzyme system is abruptly stopped, but the enzyme already present remains stable and functional for at least 6 hr (over three generations). Cultures grown under argon in a chemostat controlled by limiting ammonia have derepressed nitrogenase synthesis. If the argon is removed and replaced by N2, partial repression of nitrogenase occurs.
Using Peg- and Keyword Mnemonics and Computer-Assisted Instruction To Enhance Basic Multiplication Performance in Elementary Students with Learning and Cognitive Disabilities

This paper describes the effectiveness of Memory Math, a multimedia software program developed to teach students with learning and cognitive disabilities to effectively use a peg- and keyword mnemonic strategy to learn basic multiplication facts. According to the math Standards (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 2000), accuracy with basic facts is a critical element in the development of new skills and achievement in higher levels of math. One avenue for improving accuracy on basic skills is computer-assisted instruction (CAI). CAI offers an alternative to the teacher-intensive coaching often required to facilitate self-directed performance on basic skills. This paper demonstrates that CAI provides an effective mechanism for teaching students a mnemonic memory strategy to increase their independent performance and accuracy on tasks of basic multiplication.
Philosophical History and the Problem of Consciousness

The problem of explaining consciousness remains a problem about the meaning of language: the ordinary language of consciousness in which we define and express our sensations, thoughts, dreams and memories. This book argues that the problem arises from a quest that has taken shape over the twentieth century, and that the analysis of history provides new resources for understanding and resolving it. Paul Livingston traces the development of the characteristic practices of analytic philosophy to problems about the relationship of experience to linguistic meaning, focusing on the theories of such philosophers as Carnap, Schlick, Neurath, Husserl, Ryle, Putnam, Fodor and Wittgenstein. Clearly written and avoiding technicalities, this book will be eagerly sought out by professionals and graduate students in philosophy and cognitive science.
Single-crystal neutron-diffraction study of La2Cu0.95Li0.05O4.

${\mathrm{La}}_{2}$Cu${\mathrm{O}}_{4}$ possesses an orthorhombic superstructure based upon a tetragonal ${\mathrm{K}}_{2}$Ni${\mathrm{F}}_{4}$-type subcell for which a number of different space groups have been reported. A single-crystal neutron diffraction study, performed with large flux-grown crystals, confirms the nature of the substructure and provides $a=5.359(1)$, $b=5.363(1)$, and $c=13.127(2)$ \AA{}A. The orthorhombic strain, $\ensuremath{\epsilon}=\frac{(b\ensuremath{-}a)}{\frac{1}{2}(a+b)}$, is 7.64\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$, an order of magnitude smaller than for pure ${\mathrm{La}}_{2}$Cu${\mathrm{O}}_{4}$ as a result of incorporation of Li, derived from the flux, in the Cu site. The apparent space group is Pccn, but systematic examination of structural models in all possible centrosymmetric orthorhombic subgroups which may accommodate a ${\mathrm{K}}_{2}$Ni${\mathrm{F}}_{4}$-type substructure led to satisfactory refinement with positive-definite temperature factors only in space group Bmab-${D}_{2h}^{18}$. A substantial number of very weak reflections were detected which violate the required systematic absences of this space group. Through structure-factor calculation, after reindexing based on a probable twin law, and through dark-field transmission electron microscopy, the "forbidden" reflections are shown to arise from a 0.302(2) volume fraction of domains in twinned orientation which otherwise escaped detection because of the small value of $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$. Final agreement indices for 346 reflections with $I\ensuremath{\ge}\ensuremath{\sigma}(I)$ are $R(F)=3.22%$, $R({F}^{2})=2.57%$, ${R}_{w}({F}^{2})=3.07%$; the goodness of fit, $S$, is 1.13. The La and oxygen sites are found to be fully occupied within standard deviations of 0.4 at.%. The occupancy of the Cu site is ${\mathrm{Cu}}_{0.950}$${\mathrm{Li}}_{0.050(3)}$, in excellent accord with the results of a bulk chemical analysis.
Using Entity-Based Features to Model Coherence in Student Essays

We show how the Barzilay and Lapata entity-based coherence algorithm (2008) can be applied to a new, noisy data domain --- student essays. We demonstrate that by combining Barzilay and Lapata's entity-based features with novel features related to grammar errors and word usage, one can greatly improve the performance of automated coherence prediction for student essays for different populations.
Synthesis of sequential circuits for parallel scan

Sequential circuit testing is known to be a difficult problem. The authors present a synthesis for testability (SFT) method to solve this problem. In this approach, some testability features analogous to the traditional scan design are added to the normal logic equations which define the finite state machine (FSM). The augmented FSM is then synthesized with these added features built in. The overhead may thus be reduced as the logic needed to obtain testability is merged with the logic needed for normal functionality. Another advantage of this approach is that the test set length is usually very small; in many cases, the authors obtain a sequential test which is roughly only twice the size of the combinational test set derived for the combinational logic of the sequential circuit. This drastically reduces the test application time without sacrificing the advantages of scan design: high fault coverage and low test generation time. By applying their method to benchmark FSM examples the authors show that the resultant area overhead is also quite low. >
Multiport representation of inertia properties of kinematic mechanisms

Abstract The practical simplicity of obtaining equations of motion using the methods of Lagrange and Hamilton is lost in the algebra of the Euler-Lagrange equation when many nonlinear constraints exist among the physical coordinates in the energy state functions. Such is the case for mechanical systems containing kinematic mechanisms. This paper presents a technique which produces explicit Lagrange or Hamilton equations for mechanism dynamics suitable for computer solution. A general matrix description of mechanism kinematics and inertial properties permits the algebra of the reduction from physical to generalized coordinates to be performed symbolically or numerically by a digital computer. The physical inertia transformed into properties associated with the generalized coordinates of the mechanism displays both physical and artificial behavior to account for conservation of momentum, kinetic co-energy and energy. The method produces equations efficient for numerical calculation and provides insight into the complex inertial dynamics of mechanisms. Vector bond graphs provide a conceptual basis for the technique and describe the energetic structure of the equations. A numerical example illustrates the procedure and results.
An investigation of gold-zinc contacts on n-type indium phosphide

Abstract Experiments are described in which Schottky-type diodes were made by evaporating metal dots onto indium phosphide prepared by liquid phase epitaxy. Three types of metal dot were studied, one consisting of 2000 A of gold, one of 2000 A of a gold-zinc alloy and one composed of a layer of gold 2000 A thick on a layer of zinc 1000 A thick. The currents passed by the diodes under reverse bias and the capacitance-voltage characteristics were measured. Annealing treatments were applied to all specimens. It was found that the first two types of specimen deteriorated on annealing while the electrical properties of the third improved. Secondary ion mass spectroscopy was applied to specimens of all three types and the electrical results were interpreted in terms of the distribution of elements within a specimen.
Greenhouse growth and acclimatization of encapsulated Hibiscus moscheutos nodal segments

Leafless nodal segments (4 ± 1 mm long) of hardy hibiscus were excised from in vitro proliferating microshoots, encapsulated in sodium alginate solidified with 50 µM CaCl2, stored under refrigeration for 4 weeks in darkness, and then planted in the greenhouse. Planting in vermiculite and placing under intermittent mist was the best environment tested. If the encapsulated nodal segments were exposed to light for at least 2 weeks while in vitro in the laboratory prior to planting in the greenhouse, all survived, rooted, and produced shoots in the greenhouse. Rooting into the vermiculite was best if the encapsulated nodal segments were planted 1 cm deep and not covered. Anatomically, the new leaves that were produced from shoots that grew under mist in the greenhouse from encapsulated nodal segments were about the same thickness as leaves produced in vitro; had fewer intercellular spaces than the in vitro produced leaves; had palisade cells intermediate in length, and were intermediate for epicuticular wax formation between in vitro produced leaves and leaves on macrocuttings rooted in the greenhouse. The stomates on greenhouse shoots from encapsulated nodal segments closed similar to stomates on leaves on rooted macrocuttings, and were unlike in vitro produced leaves where the stomates remained open even when stressed. Storing and planting encapsulated nodal segments could allow producers to generate sufficient numbers of nodal segments, refrigerate them until needed, and facilitate greenhouse acclimatization and production of plants.
Sufi Music of India and Pakistan: Sound, Context and Meaning in Qawwali

For the Sufis of India and Pakistan, the Qawwali songs are 'food for the soul', a means of attaining union with God, the ecstatic culmination of mystical experience. Regula Burckhardt Qureshi's study carefully describes and documents the performance of this music in the traditional Sufi assembly, the ritual of sama', first presenting the rich musical repertoire of Qawwali song, and then exploring everything else that is relevant to an understanding of the ritual: the profound belief system and its powerful articulation through mystical poetry in three languages (Farsi, Hindi, Urdu), the social and economic relationships between Sufi listeners and musicians, and, finally, all the specific rules governing the making of and listening to Qawwali in the Sufi assembly. All this leads up to a momentby-moment account of actual Qawwali performances where the interplay between the musical sound and the diverse and often dramatic audience responses is described and analysed by the author.
GENERALIZED DIFFERENTIATION AND THE COMPLEX MEMORY OF STRUCTURES

The efficiency of mechanical constitutive models can be improved by either increasing the number of their parameters, or by allowing their parameters to belong to more general number sets. Complex-derivative constitutive models are the result of the second approach and are particularly attractive since a minimum number of parameters is needed to predict the actual response of complicated mechanical systems. In this paper the basic response functions of constitutive models that contain complex-order differential operators are examined. It is shown that the resulting basic response functions are also complex valued, and their relation to the dynamic stiffness of the system is derived. The derived expressions are general and they collapse to the classical known expressions in the special case where the model parameters are real-valued.
A real-time expert system for quality control

A quality expert system (QES) prototype for use in the hot strip mill aspect of the steel-making process is described. The QES monitors the process and recommends actions to the user, but it does not directly control the process. The user must adjust operating parameters or change process conditions to improve quality. The QES's architecture and its knowledge acquisition and knowledge representation are discussed. The way in which the prototype QES would handle a slab with a scale defect is described. >
Facilitated transfer of cholesteryl ester between rough and smooth microsomal membranes by plasma lipid transfer protein.

Abstract The accessibility of intracellular membrane cholesteryl esters to removal was tested with plasma lipid transfer protein as a tool. Incubation of a mixture of non-radioactive smooth microsomes + rough microsomes prelabeled with cholesteryl ester resulted in slight movement (2–4%) of radioactive cholesteryl ester into smooth microsomes. With the addition of increasing amounts of plasma lipid transfer protein to the mixture, the % transfer of cholesteryl ester into smooth microsomes progressively increased until a plateau was reached at 14%. Movement of cholesteryl ester in the reverse direction was examined with non-radioactive rough microsomes as an acceptor and smooth microsomes prelabeled with cholesteryl ester as a donor. The pattern of the % cholesteryl ester transferred in the reverse and forward direction was almost identical in the presence of plasma lipid transfer protein, showing bidirectional movement of cholesteryl ester between membranes.
Project-Focused Activity and Knowledge Tracker: A Unified Data Analysis, Collaboration, and Workflow Tool for Medicinal Chemistry Project Teams

Advances in the field of drug discovery have brought an explosion in the quantity of data available to medicinal chemists and other project team members. New strategies and systems are needed to help these scientists to efficiently gather, organize, analyze, annotate, and share data about potential new drug molecules of interest to their project teams. Herein we describe a suite of integrated services and end-user applications that facilitate these activities throughout the medicinal chemistry design cycle. The Automated Data Presentation (ADP) and Virtual Compound Profiler (VCP) processes automate the gathering, organization, and storage of real and virtual molecules, respectively, and associated data. The Project-Focused Activity and Knowledge Tracker (PFAKT) provides a unified data analysis and collaboration environment, enhancing decision-making, improving team communication, and increasing efficiency.
Antenna evaluation of a non-contact vital signs sensor for continuous heart and respiration rate monitoring

A portable non-contact vital signs sensor system that is capable of continuously monitoring heart and respiration rates is presented. The system operates based on the continuous wave (CW) Doppler radar principle and has been evaluated using several antenna types: patch, Yagi, log-periodic and helical. The sensor operates at 2.4 GHz, realized on a custom designed low-cost PCB that integrates both the RF receiver (Rx) and transmitter (Tx) sections with analog electronics. It uses a quadrature receiver architecture with separate Tx and Rx antennas. The sensor using our custom designed helical antenna performs best among all antennas tested here. The sensor system can achieve a ±1 beat/min error versus the reference heartbeat signal for 75% of the continuous monitoring time, while the accuracy for the respiration rate is within ±1 breath/min for 95% of the time.
Inhibitory gradients of head and foot regeneration in Hydra viridis.

Abstract The existence and characteristics of antiparallel inhibitory gradients of head and foot morphogenesis were examined in grafted Hydra viridis. The frequencies of regeneration at the borders between grafted pieces was employed as an assay for morphogenesis and, conversely, for inhibition. Four types of experiments were performed: (1) graft borders were formed either with or without lengthening animals by the addition of regions; (2) the sources of the hypothetical inhibitors were removed; (3) additional sources were supplied; (4) additional time was allowed in making three part composite animals between grafting the first two pieces together and adding the third piece. Inhibitory gradients affecting the ability of graft borders to regenerate heads, budding regions, and feet appeared when animals were lengthened to a total of three gastric regions or three peduncles. The lengths of the animal's body performing the function of the “sinks” in Crick's (1970) formulation of gradients exceed Crick's prediction. The possibility that the animal's terminal head is the sole source of head inhibition and that the animal's terminal foot is the sole source of foot inhibition appears to be overruled by the evidence from the ablation and addition experiments. The experiments involving delaying the addition of a piece showed that the gradients are stable, and that the time for the inhibition of regeneration to become irreversible is only a fraction of the time for regeneration to become determined.
Establishment of a clinical trials office at a children's hospital.

Objective. To create a clinical trials office (CTO) at a children9s hospital and assess its impact. Methods. Meetings with faculty and clinical trials groups were undertaken to develop a conceptual plan for an exclusively pediatric CTO designed to be a 1-stop office for sponsors, contract research organizations, and investigators. Guiding principles, eg, use of the CTO would be voluntary and paid for on a fee-for-service basis, were defined, and a business plan was developed. Results. The CTO opened in October 1997, offering a broad menu of services. Initial marketing efforts have been followed by steadily increasing use of the CTO, measured in a number of studies and investigators who use CTO services. Commensurate growth in CTO staffing has been required. Since the CTO9s opening, the number of and revenues from industry-sponsored clinical trials performed at the hospital have been significantly greater than the pre-CTO baseline and have exceeded business plan projections. In addition, the proportion of industry-sponsored clinical research at the hospital that is administered by the CTO has expanded (now >50%). The increase in hospital revenues from industry-sponsored clinical trials has exceeded the cost of running the CTO. Studies performed by the CTO have involved a mix of general pediatric clinic/private office patients, subspecialty clinic patients, and hospitalized children. Conclusion. A CTO dedicated to pediatric clinical research can enhance the ability of a children9s hospital to participate in the growing number of pediatric clinical trials.
Effects of Modified Storage Atmospheres on Ascorbic Acid and Other Quality Characteristics of Spinach

SUMMARY It has been shown that gas composition and temperature of the atmosphere can affect respiration and the quality of vegetables. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of these factors on the storage quality of spinach and New Zealand spinach. Both showed typical respiratory drift curves. Increasing CO2 around New Zealand spinach reduced respiration rate, and product in 13% CO2 was not acceptable after one week. A gas containing 9.5 % CO2 and 3.3% 0, was compared with air at 34 and 45°F. The leaves tended to increase in oxalate but this increase was not related to ascorbate reduction. Samples in controlled atmosphere had fewer microorganisms than air samples at the same temperature. The ascorbic acid content of the leaves was affected by atmosphere, temperature, and time. Oxygen depletion of the atmosphere resulted in a marked decrease of ascorbic acid. When oxygen content was maintained at 3.3% by intermittent flushing, the leaves retained their ascorbic acid. This phenomenon was intensively investigated with addition of analysis for dehydroascorbic acid. Since the total of dehydroascorbic and ascorbic acids did not vary with atmosphere composition, it was concluded that modified storage atmospheres neither improve nor impair antiscorbutic value.
The effect of an optical system in the complex-plane and the poincaré-sphere representations

Abstract General polarization-mapping properties of optical systems are discussed in the Poincare-sphere representation by use of its relationship to the complex-plane representation. The various complex-plane representations that arise from a change of the bases of the polarization states are interrelated and are related to the Poincare-sphere
The infrared spectrum of matrix-isolated uranium oxide vapor species

Abstract The mid-infrared spectra of UO 2 and UO 3 formed by vaporization of UO 2± x and trapped in argon matrices have been obtained. A study of the spectra of the normal 16 O and isotopically substituted 18 O species as a function of temperature and composition of the condensed uranium oxide has led to the following assignments for the 16 O species: UO 2 (ν 3 ) = 776.1 cm −1 , UO 3 (ν 3 ) = 852.5 cm −1 , UO 3 (ν 1 ) = 745.6 cm −1 . On the basis of the isotopic data, a bond angle for UO 2 of 180 + 0 − 10° and a value of UO 2 (ν 1 ) of 765.3 cm −1 have been calculated.
Patterns of alcohol use among nurse educators.

(1988). Patterns of Alcohol use Among Nurse Educators. Issues in Mental Health Nursing: Vol. 9, No. 2, pp. 189-200.
Non-expert construction of customized embedded systems to enhance STEM curricula

We present an interactive platform to enhance STEM education through project-based activities that complement the existing curriculum, while drawing on problem solving skills and team work. The addition of hands-on projects is intended not only to reinforce the various concepts learnt through normal class readings and discussion, but also make these topics multi-dimensional by enabling students to apply these principles in their everyday surroundings. The types of courses that can take advantage of the eBlock platform range from middle school math and science classes to university level engineering courses. In this paper we present the eBlocks platform which can be utilized to implement a wide variety of projects without requiring users to have programming or electronics experience. Specifically, we summarize the preliminarily usability results, discuss possible applications of the eBlock platform for various age groups, and introduce the initial curriculum development for middle school audiences.
A molecular model of coal pyrolysis

A rich body of quantitative data is available from experiments at MIT on the devolatilization of coal at various temperatures and residence times in argon and at Brookhaven on flash pyrolysis of coal at various temperatures, residence times, and pressures in several nonreactive and reactive gases. We here attempt to develop a realistic representative molecular model of coal which is compatible with proximate and ultimate analysis of coal, x-ray diffraction and other analyses of coal structures, the MIT devolatilization data, and the Brookhaven pyrolysis data. The last set gives yields of the various gases methane, ethane, and ethylene; the light liquids benzene, toluene, and xylene; and of heavy liquids or tars. We propose molecular models and a reasonable kinetics which give encouraging results in realtion to these data. Our results suggest that further developments via quantum chemistry might provide a pathway to the understanding of coal pyrolysis and combustion.
Affinity of Polymer-Supported Reagents for Lanthanides as a Function of Donor Atom Polarizability

This review correlates lanthanide-ion affinities with the polarizability of the donor atoms on immobilized ligands to gain an insight into the design of lanthanide-selective polymer-supported reagents. Comparison with the affinities for actinide ions clarifies the correlation. Polymers with different ligands are classified into four categories, based on an increasing order of donor atom polarizability: oxygen, oxygen and nitrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur. Hard−soft acid−base theory is an important determinant of ion−ligand affinities. Additional factors that affect complexation levels include counterion coordination to the metal, protonation of the ligand, and hydration. Selectivity for the lanthanide ions may be engineered into polymer-supported reagents by introducing phosphonic acid ligands.
Transaction governance structure: Theories, empirical studies, and instrument design

Transaction cost economics is an important anchor for analyzing a wide range of economic and organizational issues and is complemented by various theories, resulting in a perception shift of transaction governance structure from a polar classification toward a continuum (John & Reve, 1982; Heide & Miner, 1992; Hennart, 1993). Despite conceptual framework developments, empirical studies based on the continuum are scarce. This research is an initial effort toward TGS dimensionalization and operationalization and reviews theoretical developments since 1930, surveys empirical studies from 1982 to 2004, presents Williamson’s framework (1991), and proposes a set of items for instrument design.
Suicide Attempt by Pacemaker System Abuse: A Case Report with Comments on the Psychological Adaptation of Pacemaker Patients

SIMON, A.B., KLEINMAN, P., AND JANZ, N: Suicide attempt by pacemaker system abuse; A case report with comments on the psychoJogicaJ adaptation of pacemaker patients. Thirty patients selected at random from a pacemaker clinic were interviewed to gain an understanding of how psychological symptoms in these patients related to their cardiac condition. In 20% veiled depression or even a wish to die was elicited. Joking, fantasies, and denial were common psychological mechanisms used to adapt to their illness and the pacemaker itself. A dramatic example of attempted suicide in which the patient tried io cut the subcutaneousiy implanted pacemaker ieads is presented and iiiustrated. (PACE. Vol. 3. March-April, 1980} suicide, pacemakers, psychosociaJ adjustment, depression
Challenges and Limitations of the Market

Abstract The past decades have shown a shift of paradigm from governments as the main engine of rural development to markets and private initiative. Broad-based growth and better functioning markets are the main hope for the 800 million poor people living in rural areas. Reliance on government services only has proved to be inadequate. Sole reliance on private initiative and markets only is also deficient, given the many market failures, in particular those faced by the poor, and short-comings in availability of public goods. Therefore, without an effective pro-poor strategy for the private sector in rural development, the efforts in poverty reduction will doubtless be ineffective.
Sources and sourcing of volcanic glass in Hawai'i: implications for exchange studies

The role of exchange in Hawaiian prehistory has received only minimal attention despite Hawai'i being one of the most highly stratified societies in Oceania. This paper demonstrates the utility of provenance studies of volcanic glass as a means of providing an empirical grounding to addressing exchange and interaction in Hawaiian prehistory. Volcanic glass studies in Hawaiian archaeology are reviewed, geologic sources of the material described. and a geologically-based model formulated to guide the discovery of volcanic glass sources on West Moloka'i, Hawaiian Islands. The results of a 19.000 hectare survey are reported and the first two sources of volcanic glass on Moloka'i are described. Using an electron microprobe, the geochemical similarity of source material and volcanic glass artifacts from distant habitation sites is demonstrated. It is concluded that sources of volcanic glass can be discovered in a systematic way; microprobe analysis is a good technique for geochemical characterization; and, with additional work, hypotheses of exchange and interaction in Hawaiian prehistory can be tested with a systematically collected, empirical data base.
Mitral valve prolapse is the commonest cause of mitral regurgitation in contemporary China.

Cardiac/total adm 10% 16% 21% 23% 24% 31% Coronary 6% 16% 26% 27% 39% 47% Rheumatic 50% 44% 30% 24% 10% 2% Hypertensive 18% 7% 3% 5% 7% 5% Syphilitic 9% 3% 1% 0.2% 0.1% 0.006% Pulmonary 7% 10% 8% 2% 2% 0.4% Congenital 2% 12% 17% 13% 2% 5% Myocarditis 1% 1% 7% 11% 8% 2% Cardiomyopathy 0.05% 0.16% 2% 3% 5% 5% Pericarditis 2% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% Thyroid 2% 1% 0.24% 1% 0.2% 0.2% Mitral valve prolapse – – – 0.1% 0.5% 0.3%
The MprB Extracytoplasmic Domain Negatively Regulates Activation of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis MprAB Two-Component System

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is an acid-fast pathogen of humans and the etiological agent of tuberculosis (TB). It is estimated that one-third of the world's population is latently (persistently) infected with M. tuberculosis. M. tuberculosis persistence is regulated, in part, by the MprAB two-component signal transduction system, which is activated by and mediates resistance to cell envelope stress. Here we identify MprAB as part of an evolutionarily conserved cell envelope stress response network and demonstrate that MprAB-mediated signal transduction is negatively regulated by the MprB extracytoplasmic domain (ECD). In particular, we report that deregulated production of the MprB sensor kinase, or of derivatives of this protein, negatively impacts M. tuberculosis growth. The observed growth attenuation is dependent on MprAB-mediated signal transduction and is exacerbated in strains of M. tuberculosis producing an MprB variant lacking its ECD. Interestingly, full-length MprB, and the ECD of MprB specifically, immunoprecipitates the Hsp70 chaperone DnaK in vivo, while overexpression of dnaK inhibits MprAB-mediated signal transduction in M. tuberculosis grown in the absence or presence of cell envelope stress. We propose that under nonstress conditions, or under conditions in which proteins present in the extracytoplasmic space are properly folded, signaling through the MprAB system is inhibited by the MprB ECD. Following exposure to cell envelope stress, proteins present in the extracytoplasmic space become unfolded or misfolded, leading to removal of the ECD-mediated negative regulation of MprB and subsequent activation of MprAB.
High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of carbaryl and I-naphthol in biological fluids

A simple and sensitive method for the simultaneous analysis of carbaryl and 1-naphthol in whole blood by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection is described. Spiked blood (heparinized) containing an internal standard was hemolyzed and extracted with ethyl acetate. After centrifugation the extractant was removed and taken to dryness. Reconstitution and subsequent high-performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence analysis yielded linear standard curves for carbaryl and 1-naphthol. Linear response vs. concentration profiles were obtained for carbaryl and 1-naphthol extracted from buffer solutions as well. A simple chemical hydrolysis study of carbaryl is included to illustrate the effectiveness of the extraction procedure and assay.
Abstract LB-10: Distribution and potency of anti-proliferative arachidonic acid metabolites

Eicosanoids participate in the dysregulation of cell proliferation during tumorigenesis. The up-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and down-regulation of 15-prostaglandin dehydrogenase (15-PGDH) have been linked to the switch for a pro-proliferative and pro-angiogenic tumor microenvironment. Previous studies have characterized the effects of increased prostaglandin E 2 in tumor progression but the role of many other endogenous lipid mediators has yet to be determined. COX-2 can metabolize arachidonic acid (AA) to hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs), which in turn can be further oxidized by dehydrogenases into oxo-eicosatetraenoic acids (oxo-ETEs). We have previously reported that 11-oxo-ETE and 15-oxo-ETE are major COX-2/15-PGDH derived metabolites formed from human cells expressing COX-2 treated with AA. Although no known G-protein coupled receptor has been reported for either of these metabolites, both 11-oxo- and 15-oxo-ETE have been described from human clinical samples. This study provides a description of the uptake and distribution of 11-oxo-ETE and 15-oxo-ETE as well as their anti-proliferative activity in both human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and LoVo human colon adenocarcinoma cells. Quantification of the intracellular and extracellular levels of 11-oxo- and 15-oxo-ETE was conducted using liquid chromatography electron capture atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry with [ 13 C]-labeled 15-oxo-ETE as an internal standard. The intracellular concentrations of 11-oxo- and 15-oxo-ETE reached peak amounts within 1h followed by a rapid decline. Earlier studies have indicated that glutathione (GSH)-S-transferase further metabolized 11-oxo-ETE to form the 11-oxo-ETE-GSH (OEG)-adduct. In additional experiments, pretreatment with ethacrynic acid (EA), a known inhibitor of GSTs, increased recovery from the cellular extract. In addition, the methyl-ester of both 11-oxo- and 15-oxo-ETE was used for the targeted intracellular delivery of these COX-2/15-PGDH derived eicosanoids. Finally, we have shown that both 11-oxo- and 15-oxo-ETE as well as their methyl ester derivatives significantly inhibit cell proliferation as determined by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) cell proliferation assay and Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation in multiple human cell lines. The present study has established the cellular uptake of the short-lived COX-2/15-PGDH derived eicosanoids 11-oxo- and 15-oxo-ETE and potent inhibition of new DNA synthesis and proliferation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-10. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-LB-10
Enhanced particle transport in an oscillating sinusoidal optical potential

We have studied the delivery of a colloidal particle in the presence of an oscillating, spatially periodic, optical potential. The average particle velocity relative to the fluid velocity in this potential depends greatly on the oscillation amplitude and frequency. The results of both our simulations and experiments show that for some combinations of these parameters, the average particle transportation velocity can be enhanced due to the synchronization of the particle's movement with the oscillating potential.
Crystallization of bovine thyroid stimulating hormone.

Bovine thyroid stimulating hormone was extracted with ammonium sulfate solutions of decreasing concentrations. Crystals of the hormone separated upon storage of the extracts at room temperature. (Endocrinology 80: 203, 1967)
Ensemble controllability of time-invariant linear systems

In this paper, we study the control of an ensemble of structurally similar time-invariant linear systems. In particular, we derive explicit necessary and sufficient controllability conditions for such systems in terms of the rank of the system matrices. We present examples to demonstrate these rank conditions, and construct optimal controls for steering a linear ensemble system between states of interest by using an optimization-free computational method based on the singular value decomposition. This work extends our previous results in ensemble control of time-varying linear systems, where the established controllability conditions are implicit and are defined by the singular system of the linear operator that characterizes the system dynamics.
NSF to fund U.S.-P.R.C. geochemistry

The Division of International Programs of the National Science Foundation has finally completed negotiation on a United States-People's Republic of China (P.R.C.) Cooperative Science Program. The areas of basic science to be funded under the program include geochemistry, chemistry of natural products, ceramics, metallurgy, polymers, and plant cell biology. The program is budgeted at approximately $600–$700 thousand per year and will allow expenses for travel and field work as well as for laboratory work, salaries, and indirect costs. The program is to support seminars and research in joint projects between United States and mainland Chinese scientists. The topics are to be in areas of basic research, so there will be little reason for concern that technology may be transfered under the program. In the geochemistry portions of the program, scientists from both countries will have a lot to gain from the exchange. Vast field and sampling areas in China and in the United States will be accessed, in many cases for the first time. Under the program it will be possible to transport samples back to the laboratory for study. In other projects, experiments may be done in China, for example, and the results returned to the United States for data reduction and analysis.
Ordination of vegetation change in Guadalupe Mountains, New Mexico, USA

Vegetation change over a nine-year period was studied in Guadalupe Mountains, New Mexico. Permanent transects in desert shrub vegetation were sampled in 1972 and 1980. Emphasis was given to shrubs because of their importance to big game diets. Univariate paired t-tests and reciprocal averaging ordination were used to detect and display coordinated changes in species composition over time. Despite apparently less browsing pressure in desert shrub vegetation in 1980 there were few significant changes in species composition. In addition, preferred forage species showed reduced reproduction while species of intermediate and poor forage value dis-played increased reproduction during this time. These data do not support traditional rangeland succession theory which states that enhanced reproduction of preferred species should follow grazing or browsing pressure reduction.
Reduction of subcutaneous mass, but not lean mass, in normal fetuses in Denver, Colorado

OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that reduced birth weight in normal fetuses born at moderately high altitude (Denver), compared with the birth weight in normal fetuses born at sea level (Milan), is caused by a reduction in both lean mass and subcutaneous fat mass. STUDY DESIGN: Ninety-four normal singleton pregnancies (46 in Denver, 48 in Milan) had serial ultrasonographic axial images obtained to assess subcutaneous tissues of fetuses as a measure of body fat. The abdominal wall thickness and mid upper arm and mid thigh were examined. The equation was: Subcutaneous tissue equals total cross-sectional area minus bone and muscle area. Lean mass included the area of muscle and bone, head circumference, and femur length. RESULTS: Gestational age at delivery was similar between groups. Birth weight was less at Denver’s altitude (2991 ± 79 g versus 3247 ± 96 g; P = .04). Abdominal wall thickness, mid upper arm, and mid thigh subcutaneous tissues measurements were significantly reduced at Denver’s altitude and increased further in significance with advancing gestational age. Lean mass measurements were similar between groups. CONCLUSIONS: The reduced birth weight of the newborns in Denver was the result of a reduction in fetal subcutaneous fat tissue and not lean mass. Ultrasonography can be used to follow subcutaneous measurements longitudinally and to detect differences, and potentially disease processes, in study populations. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;185:839-44.)
Infrared chemiluminescence from the NO + HCO reaction: observation of the 2ν1−ν1 hot band of HNO

Abstract Infrared chemiluminescence in the 2200–3000 cm−1 range was observed from vibrationally excited HNO molecules produced in the reaction of NO with HCO. Formyl radicals were obtained from the OH + CH2O reaction in as reactor connected with a Fourier transform spectrometer. The HNO spectrum consists of Δν1 = −1 transitions from the (1ν2ν3) and (200) levels. The anharmonicity coefficient x11 = − 116±1 cm−1 was obtained from the position of the center of the (002)−(001) hot band, ν0 = 2452 cm−1.
Solving Semi-Open Queuing Networks

A semi-open queuing network (SOQN) is a special type of a queuing network consisting of two parts: an inner network with a population constraint and an external queue to accommodate jobs whose entrance is delayed. We first study an SOQN with a single class of jobs in tandem configuration and then extend our study to multiclass configurations. Multiclass SOQNs fall into two categories: general pallet and dedicated pallet SOQNs. For the general pallet case, we aggregate all classes and solve the resulting single-class SOQN. For the dedicated pallet case, we construct a method based on an existing product-form approximation method for general, multiclass closed networks. Our approximation method combines the matrix-geometric method with the decomposition-aggregation approach. Numerical results show that our approximations have desirable accuracy and efficiency.
Methods for measuring and reducing slippage of friction rollers employed in off-axis couplings of position encoders to telescopes

Instrumentation and procedures developed for the study of friction-roller slippage in off-axis couplings of telescope position encoders are presented, and the designs of rollers and their mountings are examined with a view to the characterization of adjustment techniques yielding optimal alignment of the rollers to minimize slippage. Attention is given to the use of various types of fiducials, including GEO satellites and inexpensive optoelectronic sensors, to gather measures of both telescope-position encoder repeatability and telescope hysteresis which are independent of the telescope-pointing model.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The HEXACO and Five-Factor Models of Personality in Relation to RIASEC Vocational Interests.

Abstract The current study extended the empirical research on the overlap of vocational interests and personality by (a) testing hypothesized relations between RIASEC interests and the personality dimensions of the HEXACO model, and (b) exploring the HEXACO personality model's predictive advantage over the five-factor model (FFM) in capturing RIASEC interests. Results of correlations based on a sample of 437 college students (157 men and 280 women) revealed support for eight of 21 hypothesized HEXACO–RIASEC relations for men and nine of 21 for women. Results of multiple regressions revealed that HEXACO accounted for more variance in RIASEC interests than did the FFM, and that HEXACO accounted for significant incremental variance beyond that explained by the FFM in four of six RIASEC interests for men and in five of six RIASEC interests for women.
Myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia

syndrome associated with chronic soft tissue dysfunction. Patients with MPS suffer from persistent pain and may end up with a decreased range of motion. Frozen shoulder may be caused by MPS and TP involving subscapularis muscle. TP are distinct, tbcal, hyperirritalSle spots, and usually can be palpated in a taut band of skeletal muscle. They may cause both local and referred pain. MPS and TP are common pain generators in patients with chronic headache, neck. shoulder, and back pain. I Patients with MPS and TP over the gluteus minimus muscle may present with back and radicular leg pain mimicing lumbar disc disease. MPS and TP involvi/ig latissimus dorsi muscle should be part of the differential diagnosis of mid-thoracic backache. Skootsky et al. reported that as ,nany as 85% of patients presenting with low back pain to a general internal medicine practice might have myofascial TP as their source of pain. MPS and TP over the upper body was found to be more common in comparison to other region. 2