cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What was really learned from tasker and golombok's (1995) study of lesbian and single parent mothers?

Limitations of research on gays and family life are discussed, including the low statistical power of small samples, a condition which increases the likelihood of failing to reject null hypotheses. In particular, it is observed that Fitzgerald in 1999 shifted from very tentative arguments in her review of literature to rather conclusive statements in her abstract about outcomes for children of gay parents. Furthermore, an often quoted 1995 article by Tasker and Golombok, upon closer examination, appears to indicate that being raised in a lesbian family increases the odds of a child later adopting a homosexual lifestyle even in the absence of homosexual attractions. For such reasons, scholars and policymakers all should be very cautious in accepting, at face value, at least some of the research being reported on gays and family life.
A global approach to childhood lead poisoning prevention

Childhood lead poisoning is an important, preventable environmental disease affecting millions of children around the world. The effects of lead are well known and range from delayed and adversely affected neurodevelopment to severe health outcomes including seizures, coma, and death. This article reviews the childhood effects of lead poisoning, the approach being taken to the problem in the United States, and the obstacles faced by developing nations in dealing with lead exposure. The United States has attacked the childhood lead poisoning problem by attempting to eliminate sources of exposure, including gasoline, solder in water pipes and cans, and industrial emissions. These actions have resulted in a dramatic reduction in the number of children with elevated blood lead levels in the United States over the last two decades. However, many developing countries are just beginning to address the problem. Successful efforts will need to incorporate epidemiologic methods, source identification, enforced regulations, and a long-term government commitment to eliminating lead as a threat to the next generation of children.
Rural Internet access: over‐subscription strategies, regulation and equilibrium

This paper presents an analysis of the Internet access market using a game theoretic model. In particular, we consider the Nash equilibrium of the service providers and examine their behavior on network investment and output level. We calibrate this model to fit the industry structure and data found in rural markets. In the first part of the paper, we examine the Internet industry structure and its characteristics. Based on the industry structure, we create a Cournot duopoly model, in which real world cost and revenue projections are used to find Internet access market equilibrium. In conclusion, we analyze social welfare of the equilibrium. These analyses allow us to explain the motivation for the rural ISPs' behavior, such as over-subscription and under-investment and to present an analytical framework for Internet industry policy makers. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amino acid biosynthesis deficiency in bacteria associated with human and animal hosts

Opportunistic pathogenic bacteria continuously live in humans and obligately pathogenic bacteria associate with humans only in the case of diseases. A mystery is whether pathogens can live outside the hosts. We showed here that most human pathogens have lost biosynthetic pathways for amino acids. This condition suggests that most microbial pathogens are obligately host-dependent and they cannot multiply outside their hosts. Further analysis of the genome sizes revealed that the genomes of host-dependent bacteria are smaller than those of free living bacteria, suggesting that reductive evolution of genomes occurs broadly in bacterial pathogens and non-pathogens closely associated with human and animal hosts. The extent of genome reduction appears to depend on the environment in which they reside. The richer the nutrients are in the environment the smaller the genome is in the bacteria.
Modeling Life-Span Growth Curves of Cognition using Longitudinal Data with Multiple Samples and Changing Scales of Measurement

The authors use multiple-sample longitudinal data from different test batteries to examine propositions about changes in constructs over the life span. The data come from 3 classic studies on intellectual abilities in which, in combination, 441 persons were repeatedly measured as many as 16 times over 70 years. They measured cognitive constructs of vocabulary and memory using 8 age-appropriate intelligence test batteries and explore possible linkage of these scales using item response theory (IRT). They simultaneously estimated the parameters of both IRT and latent curve models based on a joint model likelihood approach (i.e., NLMIXED and WINBUGS). They included group differences in the model to examine potential interindividual differences in levels and change. The resulting longitudinal invariant Rasch test analyses lead to a few new methodological suggestions for dealing with repeated constructs based on changing measurements in developmental studies.
Linkage investigation of a large family with Reifenstein's syndrome

Linkage analysis of a 116-member family with 11 males affected by Reifenstein's syndrome is reported. One X-chromosomal and eight autosomal markers were used. Close linkage can be excluded for P, K, MNS and Xg-a. A possibility of close linkage to ABO is discussed.
Organic thin-film transistors: a review of recent advances

In this paper we review recent progress in materials, fabrication processes, device designs, and applications related to organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs), with an emphasis on papers published during the last three years. Some earlier papers that played an important role in shaping the OTFT field are included, and a number of previously published review papers that cover that early period more completely are referenced. We also review in more detail related work that originated at IBM during the last four years and has led to the fabrication of high-performance organic transistors on flexible, transparent plastic substrates requiring low operating voltages.
Natural and synthetic ferroglaucophane

Amphiboles approximating the composition of the ferroglaucophane end member, Na2Fe3Al2Si8O22(OH)2, have not been found in nature prior to 1969. Chemical, physical and petrologic data of four specimens of that mineral are given, two from Southern Italy and two from New Caledonia (Black, 1970).
Interferon treatment of chronic hepatitis C

The natural history of chronic hepatitis C is just beginning to be clarified, with its more common course being an insidiously progressive liver disease that often remains clinically inconsequential for many years or even decades. Although chronic hepatitis C progresses histologically, the impact on the clinical well-being of the patient is less evident. Interferon is an effective therapy for this disease because of its antiviral effect on the cytopathic hepatitis C virus, lowering serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, rather than because of any immune modulatory mechanism. Unfortunately, interferon therapy does not permanently eradicate hepatitis C virus in the majority of patients, and relapse with return of the serum ALT level to the pretreatment range occurs in approximately 70% of responding patients. Other interferon-treated patients continue to be viremic and are not considered to be responders. In addition, not all patients with chronic hepatitis C require treatment. A systematic approach to patient evaluation is necessary to determine the need for treatment, assess treatment response, identify side effects of therapy, and assist in other clinical decisions.
Estimation of multivariate normal covariance and precision matrices in a star-shape model with missing data

In this paper, we study the problem of estimating the covariance matrix @S and the precision matrix @W (the inverse of the covariance matrix) in a star-shape model with missing data. By considering a type of Cholesky decomposition of the precision matrix @[email protected]^'@J, where @J is a lower triangular matrix with positive diagonal elements, we get the MLEs of the covariance matrix and precision matrix and prove that both of them are biased. Based on the MLEs, unbiased estimators of the covariance matrix and precision matrix are obtained. A special group G, which is a subgroup of the group consisting all lower triangular matrices, is introduced. By choosing the left invariant Haar measure on G as a prior, we obtain the closed forms of the best equivariant estimates of @W under any of the Stein loss, the entropy loss, and the symmetric loss. Consequently, the MLE of the precision matrix (covariance matrix) is inadmissible under any of the above three loss functions. Some simulation results are given for illustration.
Validation of criterion-referenced archery cutting scores.

This study investigated an empirical method for setting optimal cutting scores for a criterion-referenced archery test. The classification-outcome probabilities and approaches to validity suggested by Berk were utilized. Pretest scores were obtained on 35 uninstructed college-age women on six ends (six arrows each) from 20 yards (18.3 m) after an unrecorded warm-up end. Posttest scores were after 15 weeks of instruction. Score distributions were the primary determinant for accurately classifying students as true mastery and true nonmastery. Accuracy is a function of the amount of overlap between distributions. Using the point at which the distributions overlapped, classification accuracy was estimated. Probabilities associated with 80 points were p(TM) + p(TN) = .83 and p(FM) + p(FN) = .14. Scores above and below 80 points had lower probabilities of classification accuracy. Reliability estimated using Kappa was .59. Statistical validity of the cutting score (phi) was .68.
The effects of negative emotions on sensory perception: fear but not anger decreases tactile sensitivity

Emotions and sensory perceptions are closely intertwined. Of the five senses sight has been by far the most extensively studied sense in emotion research. Relatively less is known about how emotions influence the other four senses. Touch is essential for nonverbal communication in both humans and other animals. The current investigation tested competing hypotheses about the effect of fear on tactile perception. One hypothesis based on evolutionary considerations predicts that fear enhances sensory perception, including tactile sensitivity. A competing hypothesis based on research on peripheral psychophysiology predicts that fear should decrease tactile sensitivity. Two experiments that induced negative emotional states and measured two-point discrimination ability found that fear reduces tactile sensitivity relative to anger or a neutral control condition (Studies 1 and 2). These findings did not appear to be driven by participants’ naive beliefs about the influence of emotions on touch (Study 3). The results represent the first evidence of the causal impact of emotional states on tactile sensitivity, are consistent with prior evidence for the peripheral physiological effects of fear, and offer novel empirical grounds for developing and advancing theories of emotional influences on sensory perception.
Optimization of large-scale rigidified inflatable structures for housing using physical programming

This paper makes important initial steps in the application of large-scale structural optimization to Rigidified Inflatable Structures (RIS) for cost competitive residential construction, and does so within the realistic framework of multiobjective optimization using the effective physical programming approach. Over the past two decades, structural optimization has proved to be an invaluable tool in numerous arenas. Its faint beginnings in civil engineering have given way to important applications in the aerospace industry, and more recently, in the automotive industry and many other areas. Importantly, structural optimization has given way to the broader field of Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO). Within this context, this paper explores the feasibility of RIS design for residential construction with respect to cost, structural integrity (e.g., buckling, deformation), and other practical issues. A cylindrical structure is considered, and is subjected to code-specified snow and wind loads. Within a multiobjective framework, a physical-programming-based optimization approach is developed to examine the behavior and feasibility of reinforced and non-reinforced polymers as primary RIS materials. Using a finite element model of approximately 72000 degrees of freedom, we illustrate how the physical programming method effectively addresses the multiobjective and multiscale nature of the problem. Initial results indicate favorable feasibility of RIS use in housing. Further studies of broader scope are suggested.
Phonon density of states of amorphous silicon

Inelastic neutron scattering, Raman spectroscopy and infrared absorption measurements have been used to obtain the vibrational spectra for two large (5 gm) sputtered samples of pure and 12% hydrogen doped samples of amorphous silicon. The Si-H wagging mode at 640 cm/sup -1/ is observed in both neutron scattering and infrared data with similar peak shapes. The mode at 480 cm/sup -1/ corresponding to the TO (520 cm/sup -1/) mode in crystalline silicon is observed in all three measurements independent of hydrogen concentration. A significant spectral density is observed in the neutron scattering data in the Si mode region from 480 cm/sup -1/ down. Of particular interest is a feature near 200 cm/sup -1/ which appears in the hydrogen doped samples in both neutron scattering and infrared data. For the first time, results from all three types of measurements are reported on the same samples.
The acoustical properties of deoxygenated sickle cell blood and hemoglobin S solution

Experimental data are presented to show that the acoustical properties in low oxygen tension sickle cell blood and deoxyhemoglobin S solution are altered, probably due to the crystallization of hemoglobin S. The velocity of propagation is only slightly higher than that of normal blood at the same hemoglobin concentration. The attenuation coefficient shows noted increase and the scattering cross section is found to be about four times larger at 5 MHz. The increase in attenuation has been determined to arise mainly from increased absorption.
Raynaud's Phenomenon of Occupational Origin

• Vibration delivered to the hand and arm by industrial pneumatic tools is a common cause of vascular and neurovascular problems, including cold-induced vascular spasm (vibration white finger) and peripheral neuropathies with paresthesias, dysesthesias, and sensory abnormalities. A decade ago, the US Public Health Service estimated that 1.2 million American workers were at risk. Differentiation of primary and secondary Raynaud's phenomenon from the thoracic outlet syndrome and from the carpal tunnel syndrome pose potential diagnostic difficulties. Despite growing public recognition of upper extremity problems caused by repetitive trauma, there have been few investigations of vibration-induced disorders in the United States. This is not true worldwide, particularly in Northern Europe, where there has been significant intervention in medical surveillance and tool design. There does appear to be, however, frequent misdiagnosis and misdirected surgery. This has particular significance for the clinician, since in the 1990s, cumulative trauma injuries are expected to exceed all other work-related injuries. ( Arch Intern Med . 1990;150:519-522)
Max Weber's Interpretive Economic Sociology

Economic sociology needs more ideas, and in this article the author suggests that economic sociologists may want to explore what a rigorous interpretive economic sociology along Weberian lines would look like. One way to proceed in an enterprise of this type would be to apply the model of analysis that can be found in chapter 1 of Economy and Society to economic sociology and its problems. This means that one has to graft onto economic sociology such key ideas and key concepts in Weber's interpretive sociology as adequate causation, the need to always explore the meaning of actors, and what consequences these meanings have for the resulting action. What a concrete Weberian type of interpretive economic sociology will be like cannot, however, be determined this way. It needs instead to be worked out through concrete, empirical analysis.
Nonlinear prediction with neural networks applied to 1-D DPCM image coding

Neural net architectures, with a hidden layer or functional links, have been utilized to generate prediction for one-dimensional (1-D) differential pulse code modulation (DPCM), applied to still image coding. In this approach, the predictor is designed by supervised training based on a typical sequence of pixel values; i.e., the values of the coefficients of the predictor are determined by training on examples. Nonlinear as well as linear correlations are exploited. Computer simulation experiments have been carried out to evaluate the resulting performance. At a transmission rate of 1 bit/pixel, for the images Lena and Baboon, the 1-D neural network DPCM provides a 4.17- and 3.74-dB improvement in peak SNR, respectively, over the standard linear DPCM system.
Evaluation of a Surfactant Mixture C31G as a Teat Dip by a Modified Excised Teat Model

Abstract A mixture of amphoteric surfactants with antimicrobial properties, C31G, was evaluated as a teat dip by a modified excised teat model. The model was modified to avoid misinterpretation of results from indigenous bacterial microflora on teats. In three experiments, bacterial numbers recovered from teats dipped in .75, 1.5, and 3.0% solutions of C31G were compared with bacteria recovered from undipped teats (negative controls) and teats dipped with 1.0% iodophor (an effective teat dip). Mean log reductions of teat end concentrations of Stapbylococcus aureus, Streptococcus fecalis , and Escbericbia coli were determined in each experiment. Efficacy was greatest for the 3.0% solution of C31G with mean log reductions (Log reduction=Log 10 of controls—Log 10 of dipped teats) 3.53 for Stapbylococcus aureus , 2.89 for Streptococcus fecalis, and 3.16 for Escbericbia coli. Iodophor (1%) yielded mean log reductions of 3.26 for Stapbylocococcus aureus , 2.16 for Streptococcus fecalis , and 2.83 for Escbericbia coli . For all three organisms, number of viable organisms decreased with increasing concentrations of C31G. The efficacy of C31G should be evaluated in vivo.
Vertical motion of a charged colloidal particle near an AC polarized electrode with a nonuniform potential distribution: theory and experimental evidence.

Electroosmotic flow in the vicinity of a colloidal particle suspended over an electrode accounts for observed changes in the average height of the particle when the electrode passes alternating current at 100 Hz. The main findings are (1) electroosmotic flow provides sufficient force to move the particle and (2) a phase shift between the purely electrical force on the particle and the particle's motion provides evidence of an E2 force acting on the particle. The electroosmotic force in this case arises from the boundary condition applied when faradaic reactions occur on the electrode. The presence of a potential-dependent electrode reaction moves the likely distribution of electrical current at the electrode surface toward uniform current density around the particle. In the presence of a particle the uniform current density is associated with a nonuniform potential; thus, the electric field around the particle has a nonzero radial component along the electrode surface, which interacts with unbalanced char...
Continuous spectrophotometric assays for β-glucosidases acting on the plant glucosides l-picein and prunasin

Abstract The neutral pH optimum β-glucosidases of mammalian liver and almonds are each capable of hydrolyzing a number of plant glucosides, including l -picein ( p -hydroxyacetophenone-β- d -glucoside) and prunasin ( d -mandelonitrile-β-glucoside). Taking advantage of the marked differences in the spectra of the substrate/product pairs of l -picein/ p -hydroxyacetophenone and prunasin/mandelonitrile, we have devised spectrophotometric assays that permit the continuous monitoring at pH 7.0 of p -hydroxyacetophenone (piceol) release from l -picein by guinea pig hepatic cytosolic β-glucosidase and mandelonitrile from prunasin by almond β-glucosidase. When l -picein hydrolysis was monitored at 320 nm and prunasin at 282 nm, the molar absorption coefficients determined for their products, namely piceol and mandelonitrile, were 3200 and 1360 m −1 cm −1 , respectively. The kinetic parameter K m and V max values obtained using these spectrophotometric procedures for the guinea pig liver cytosolic β-glucosidase acting on l -picein were 0.88 m m and 5.29 × 10 5 units/mg protein and for the almond β-glucosidase acting on prunasin, K m 1.1 m m and V max 5.24 × 10 6 units/mg protein. These values agreed well with previously reported values obtained using less convenient, discontinuous assay procedures.
Geochemical evidence of rapid hydrocarbon venting from a seafloor-piercing mud diapir, Gulf of Mexico continental shelf

Abstract A research submersible was employed to collect sediments from a previously undescribed diapiric mud mound on the Gulf of Mexico continental shelf. The sediments contain high concentrations of C1–C6+ hydrocarbon gases and crude oil. The mud mound hydrocarbons are relatively unaffected by biodegradation, in contrast to the heavily biodegraded hydrocarbons that characterize the sediments of some other Gulf of Mexico seep sites, including those colonized by chemosynthetic communities. The molecular and isotopic properties of the gas and oil suggest rapid hydrocarbon transport from the mound sediments to the water column. The mud mound is an episodic point source of an oil slick on the sea surface. Gas venting is observed on the seafloor, and bubble trains recorded close to the sea surface suggest that greenhouse thermogenic gases (mainly methane) may escape to the atmosphere. Improved understanding of the fate of C1–C6+ gases and crude oil in shallow marine sediments will contribute to better assessment of the impact of seep hydrocarbons on the global inventory of atmospheric sources.
Antiemetic medications in pregnancy: a prospective investigation of obstetric and neurobehavioral outcomes

Objective The study goal was to examine the impact of commonly prescribed antiemetic medications in pregnancy on neurobehavioral and obstetric outcomes. Study Design Five hundred thirty-three women accounting for 550 live births (17 multiple gestations) enrolled before 16 weeks' gestation participating in an observational longitudinal study of stress and pharmacologic exposure in pregnancy at Emory Women's Mental Health Program were included in this study. Maternal report of exposure to medications was documented by weeks of use. Obstetric and neonatal data were obtained from medical records. The Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale was completed by certified raters at age 7 days. The Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) was completed by the mother between 17 and 66 months of age. Comparison of groups was conducted using χ 2 and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Spearman correlation analysis was used for CBCL percentile scores to evaluate duration of exposure. Results The exposed group (n = 143) was comprised of children whose mothers received promethazine or ondansetron during pregnancy. Unexposed children (n = 407) were used for comparison. Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale data 7 days (range, 2–77) was available on 345 infants (exposed n = 102; unexposed n = 243), and a total of 247 CBCLs (exposed n = 51; unexposed n = 196) at 29 (range, 17–66) months of age. No significant differences were seen using Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale and CBCL. Statistically significant differences were seen in gestational age at delivery (0.3 weeks) and birthweight (110 g). Conclusion No clinically significant adverse neurobehavioral effects or obstetric outcomes were identified. This is reassuring as promethazine and ondansetron are commonly prescribed during pregnancy.
A large observational study to concurrently assess persistence of measles specific B-cell and T-cell immunity in individuals following two doses of MMR vaccine.

Abstract The measurement of measles-specific neutralizing antibodies, directed against the surface measles virus hemagglutinin and fusion proteins, is considered the gold standard in measles serology. We assessed functional measles-specific neutralizing antibody levels in a racially diverse cohort of 763 young healthy adolescents after receipt of two doses of measles–mumps–rubella vaccine, by the use of an automated plaque reduction microneutralization (PRMN) assay, and evaluated their relevance to protective antibody levels, as well as their associations with demographic and clinical variables. We also concurrently assessed measles-specific IFNγ Elispot responses and their relation to the observed antibody concentrations. The geometric mean titer for our cohort was 832 mIU/mL (95% CIs: 776; 891). Sixty-eight subjects (8.9%) had antibody concentrations of less than the protective threshold of 210 mIU/mL (corresponding to PRMN titer of 120; suggesting protection against symptomatic disease), and 177 subjects (23.2%) demonstrated persisting antibody concentrations above 1841 mIU/mL (corresponding to PRMN titer of 1052; suggesting total protection against viral infection), 7.4 years after vaccination, in the absence of wild-type virus boosting. The mean measles-specific IFNγ Elispot response for our cohort was 46 (95% CIs: 43; 49) IFNγ-positive spots per 200,000 cells with no relation of cellular immunity measures to the observed antibody concentrations. No significant associations between antibody titers and demographic and clinical variables, including gender and race, were observed in our study. In conclusion, in a large observational study of measles immunity, we used an automated high-throughput measles virus-specific neutralization assay to measure humoral immunity, and concurrently determined measles-specific cellular immunity to aid the assessment of potential susceptibility to measles in vaccinated populations.
Macro and micro dynamics of male sexual anxiety: theory and intervention.

Both traditional masculine socialization and patriarchal historical arrangements suppress men’s need for emotional connectedness and self-disclosure and limit the sexual and intimate scripts available to men in post-industrial society. In this paper, we use theory and personal narrative to examine how an experience we term “male sexual anxiety” can result from dysfunctional meanings associated with socialization into a mechanistic masculine script of toughness, competitiveness, autonomy, and hypersexuality. Male sexual anxiety, in turn, can exacerbate inadequacies in selfconceptions and intimate relationships. We propose that the underlying symptoms of male sexual anxiety include the personal and relational discomfort resulting from the constant preoccupation with sex as well as the considerable risks and expenditure of resources from sexual pursuits. We show how male sexual anxiety is linked to the alienating relations embodied in patriarchal masculine sociocultural and postindustrial economic arrangements.
Quantification of allospecific and nonspecific corneal endothelial cell damage after corneal transplantation

Quantification of allospecific and nonspecific corneal endothelial cell damage after corneal transplantation
An Analysis of the “Blizzard of '88”

The analysis of the blizzard, an intense cyclone that was accompanied by unusually heavy snowfall, high winds, and cold temperatures, is carried out using a collection of detailed surface weather observations. It follows the cyclone from its genesis along a slow-moving frontal system through its rapid development and occlusion along the Middle Atlantic and southern New England coasts. Unusual aspects of the cyclone are discussed. Among these are the limited areal extent of heavy snow accumulations, the establishment of very cold air across western New England and the Middle Atlantic states, a persistent stationary front zone across central New England that separated frigid continental air from maritime air, and the slow movement and rapid warming associated with the decay of the storm.
Prognostic Value of Chromosome 1p Allelic Loss in Colon Cancer

Background & Aims: Current evidence suggests that there may be a tumor-suppressor gene on chromosome 1p associated with colorectal cancer. The aim of the present study was to determine whether allelic loss on chromosome 1p is of prognostic value in colorectal cancer. Methods: Polymerase chain reaction was used to assess allelic loss of five chromosome 1p microsatellite markers in tumor specimens. Genomic DNA was prepared from archival tumor and corresponding normal tissue specimens from 116 patients who had undergone curative treatment for adenocarcinoma of the colon. Allelic loss was correlated with disease-free interval and survival. Results: Deletion of 1p sequence was detected in 22 of 82 tumors. Deletions of the microsatellite markers D1S228 (1p36) and HY-TM1 (1p32) were significantly associated with poor survival (P < 0.05): relative risk, 4.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-9.23 for D1S228; and relative risk, 6.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-19 for HY-TM1. Loss of heterozygosity at D1S228 was also associated with shorter disease-free interval: relative risk, 4.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-11. Conclusions: Allelic loss in the 1p36 and 1p32 regions of chromosome 1 appears to be an independent predictor of poor prognosis in patients with adenocarcinoma of the colon.
Digital plotting from a line generator format: an interface

A hard copy capability was needed for the CRT of a PDP-11/LDS-2 graphics facility. Available hardware was inconvenient or unsatisfactory for several reasons. An Hewlett-Packard 7210 A Digital Plotter was selected and an interface from standard line generator format to the plotter was designed and built. The results are a fast, quiet, high-quality hard copy capability requiring negligible software.
A model for fast computer simulation of waves in excitable media

Abstract Starting from a two-variable system of reaction-diffusion equations, an algorithm is devised for efficient simulation of waves in excitable media. The spatio-temporal resolution of the simulation can be varied continuously. For fine resolutions the algorithm provides accurate solution of the underlying reaction-diffusion equations. For coarse resolutions, the algorithm provides qualitative simulations at small computational cost.
Lightweight scheme for generating stealthy probes

Probing based approaches have been effectively used for network monitoring in the past. Probes such as ICMP pings provide an effective tool for detecting compromised nodes which try to delay or drop traffic. But an intelligent attacker may evade detection by giving preferential treatment to probe traffic. This is usually possible because probe packets have a different format from regular application packets and are easily distinguishable. The solution to this problem is to create stealthy probes which are indistinguishable from normal application traffic. In this paper, we build upon our earlier work on the design approaches for stealthy probing, and we propose a lightweight and effective scheme for generating stealthy probes.
Stability boundaries of a swinging spring with oscillating support

This paper is concerned with the motion of a flexible pendulum whose support oscillates harmonically along a vertical line. The motion is described by two simultaneous ordinary differential equations for the generalized co-ordinates: namely, the angular excursion of the pendulum and the axial elastic motion of the pendulum bob. For small angles, an explicit solution is possible for the elastic motion. As a result, the pendulum oscillations are governed by a form of Ince's equation. Periodic solutions of the equation are obtained by using a method employing Hill's determinants. A simple computational procedure is developed which permits the calculation of large symmetric tridiagonal determinants. This procedure is used to compute combinations of system parameters for which periodic solutions are possible. Then periodic solutions are used to produce stability diagrams in a three-dimensional parameter space, where the stability diagrams can be regarded as three-dimensional Strutt diagrams.
The early detection of occupational lung disease.

Abstract The pneumoconioses develop as a result of deposition of dust in the alveoli and respiratory bronchioles. The harmful effects of the offending particles to begin with are limited to the lung parenchyma and small airways. Detection of functional impairment in the distal airways of the lung is technically difficult, and the usual tests of ventilatory capacity, that is estimation of airways resistance and the various derivatives of the forced expiratory volume manoeuvre, are of limited use for this. Several techniques have recently been introduced which it is claimed measure disturbed function in the small airways. At present, and despite the claims made on their behalf, the role of these newer techniques in the early detection of pneumoconioses and naturally occurring disease remains uncertain. The final verdict must await the results of long-term epidemiological studies.
A new technique for the link slice problem

The conjectures that the 4-dimensional surgery theorem and 5-dimensional s-cobordism theorem hold without fundamental group restriction in the topological category are equivalent to assertions that certain "atomic" links are slice. This has been reported in [CF, F2, F4 and FQ]. The slices must be topologically flat and obey some side conditions. For surgery the condition is: ~a(S 3 ~ slice)--, rq (B 4 slice) must be an epimorphism, i.e., the slice should be "homotopically ribbon"; for the s-cobordism theorem the slice restricted to a certain trivial sublink must be standard. There is some choice about what the atomic links are; the current favorites are built from the simple "Hopf link" by a great deal of Bing doubling and just a little Whitehead doubling. A link typical of those atomic for surgery is illustrated in Fig. 1. (Links atomic for both s-cobordism and surgery are slightly less symmetrical.) There has been considerable interplay between the link theory and the equivalent abstract questions. The link theory has been of two sorts: algebraic invariants of finite links and the limiting geometry of infinitely iterated links. Our object here is to solve a class of free-group surgery problems, specifically, to construct certain slices for the class of links ~ where D(L)eCg if and only if D(L) is an untwisted Whitehead double of a boundary link L. Unfortunately, (~ appears not to be atomic for surgery or s-cobordism. However our technique is quite different from the earlier extension [F4] of simply-connected methods and may prove helpful in establishing the limits of the nonsimply-connected theory. An n-component link is a topological imbedding I ) Si c L , $3 of n circles i = 1 in the 3-sphere. It is slice if and only if there is a topological imbedding L (dotted arrow) making the diagram:
Building References for the Future

Any of us might change jobs in the future, and we know well need references if and when the time comes. Yet few people realize that just like managing your education and training for the future, you can manage your references too. Here are some tips.
Composition of a photosystem I chlorophyll protein complex from Anabaena flos-aquae.

Abstract The use of Triton X-100 to solubilize membrane fragments from Anabaena flos-aquae in conjunction with DEAE cellulose chromatography allows the separation of three green fractions. Fraction 1 is detergent-solubilized chlorophyll, and Fraction 2 contains one polypeptide in the 15 kdalton area. Fraction 3, which contains most of the chlorophyll and shows P-700 and photosystem I activity, shows by SDS gel electrophoresis varying polypeptide profiles which reflect the presence of four fundamental bands as well as varying amounts of other polypeptides which appear to be aggregates containing the 15 kdalton polypeptide. The four fundamental bands are designated Band I at 120, Band II at 52, Band III at 46, and Band IV at 15 kdaltons. Band I obtained using 0.1% SDS contains chlorophyll and P-700 associated with it. When this band is cut out and rerun, the 120 kdalton band is lost, but significant increases occur in the intensities of Bands II, III, and IV as well as other polypeptides in the 20–30 kdalton range. The use of 1% Triton X-100 coupled with sucrose density gradient centrifugation allows the separation of three green bands at 10, 25 and 40% sucrose. The 10% layer contains a major polypeptide which appears to be Band IV. The 25 and 40% layers show essentially similar polypeptide profiles, resembling Fraction 3 in this regard, except that the 40% layer shows a marked decrease in Band III. Treatment of the material layering at the 40% sucrose level with a higher (4%) concentration of Triton X-100 causes a loss (disaggregation) of the polypeptides occurring in the 60–80 kdalton region and an increase in the lower molecular weight polypeptides. Thus, aggregation of the lower molecular weight polypeptides accounts for the variability seen in the electrophoresis patterns. Possible relations of the principal polypeptides to the known photochemical functions in the original membrane are discussed.
Monitoring of Transient Central Nervous System Postirradiation Effects by 133Xe Inhalation Regional Cerebral Blood Flow Measurements

The early transient postirradiation effects in the central nervous system are well known; however, no specific means of objective follow-up have been devised. The xenon (/sup 133/Xe) inhalation technique for measurement of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) is easily reproducible. Serial rCBF measurements corresponding to the clinical presentation and course of the early postirradiation syndrome have not been previously reported. It is our belief that the global decline in rCBF identified in these patients represents a generalized metabolic derangement induced by whole brain irradiation rather than primary vascular changes. A distinction between tumor recurrence and the early transient postirradiation effects can be made utilizing this technique. It also provides a reproducible monitor of the clinical and metabolic impact of radiotherapy for brain tumors. A series of seven such patients is presented with appropriate case histories and graphic representations of the serial rCBF measurements.
Transesophageal Echocardiographic Identification of an Abdominal Aortic Pseudoaneurysm Complemented by a Transpulmonary Echo Contrast Agent

Abstract Pseudoaneurysm of the abdominal aorta, a rare complication after traumatic injuries, represents a diagnostic challenge for which sophisticated imaging modalities are often used for its early identification. We describe a case in which transesophageal echocardiographic examination complemented by a transpulmonary echo contrast agent was useful not only in demonstrating the pseudoaneurysm, but in helping to localize the intravascular communication between the aorta and the pseudoaneurysm.
Methyl salicylate is a field attractant for the goldeneyed lacewing, Chrysopa oculata

Abstract The green lacewing, Chrysopa oculata Say, was significantly attracted to sticky cards baited with undiluted methyl salicylate (MeSA) in an unsprayed vineyard in Washington State. During the first three weeks of the five week experiment 5–8 times as many C. oculata were trapped on MeSA-baited as on unbaited or hexane-baited cards. Diluted (10%, 1%) MeSA-baited cards did not attract C. oculata. These results are discussed with respect to a hypothesis that only lacewings with carnivorous adults are attracted to MeSA.
Investigation of Gas-Solid Fluidized Bed Dynamics with Spherical and Non-Spherical Particles

The hydrodynamic behavior of a gas-solid fluidized bed operating with both spherical and non-spherical particles is presented in this paper. For this purpose a plexiglass tube with an outside diameter of 3.8cm and a wall thickness of 0.318cm was used as the fluidized bed. With air as the carrier gas spherical borosilicate glass beads with a diameter of 1mm were used as the spherical particles and borosilicate glass with mean particle size of 717 �� m were used as non-spherical particles. Methodology of the particle size distribution and sphericity analysis is presented in this paper. Pressure measurements and high-speed imaging were utilized to characterize flows in a 5cm static packed bed. Mapping of bed pressure drop and superficial gas velocity across the bed was done and showed much lower pressure drop occurring for the non-spherical particle. The minimum fluidization and terminal velocity conditions for the specified fluidized bed and particles is also presented in this paper. MatPIV analysis of high-speed images, captured with a high-speed camera shows the flowfield velocity vectors and vorticity for both spherical and non-spherical particles.
Transgressive Rhetoric and Reactionary Politics: Avant-Gardism, Fascism, and the Language of Purification in Italy:

This article describes the ways in which the transgressive rhetoric of futurism has underpinned the rhetoric of Italian fascism, not only in its early years, as has been more frequently analyzed, but also during the later regime phase (1932–1940). The continued influence of futurism beyond the early “revolutionary” years of fascism has not received equal attention, largely because this period has been identified with reactionary politics and hence is seen as less resonant with futurism's emphasis on the necessity of breaking from traditional political and religious institutions.It argues that Futurism provided the regime with a vocabulary of regeneration and purification, one that was used both to redefine the ideal fascist man and to imbue the state with a religious dimension. It did so both in a spatial sense, defending a sacred center from a polluted periphery and a temporal one that sought to reclaim a Roman heritage and to project a radical continuity into the future.
Jagged 1 is necessary for normal mouse lens formation

In mammals, two spatially and temporally distinct waves of fiber cell differentiation are crucial steps for normal lens development. In between these phases, an anterior growth zone forms in which progenitor cells migrate circumferentially, terminally exit the cell cycle and initiate differentiation at the lens equator. Much remains unknown about the molecular pathways orchestrating these processes. Previously, the Notch signal transduction pathway was shown to be critical for anterior lens progenitor cell growth and differentiation. However, the ligand or ligand(s) that direct these events are unknown. Using conditional gene targeting, we show that Jagged1 is required for lens fiber cell genesis, particularly that of secondary fiber cells. In the absence of Jagged1, the anterior growth and equatorial transition zones fail to develop fully, with only a handful of differentiated fiber cells present at birth. Adult Jagged1 conditional mutants completely lack lenses, along with severe anterior chamber deformities. Our data support the hypothesis that Jagged1-Notch signaling conveys a lateral inductive signal, which is indispensable for lens progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation.
The issue is human quality: In praise of children☆

Abstract This essay is based on the premise that quality in human life is inseparably linked to the well-being of children. In this view, the well-being of children is both the principal challenge faced by a modern society and the principal focal point tor a society “bound to move away from ‘growth’ defined as quantitative product irrespective of what and whom it is for.” Children and their needs provide an anchoring point for adult relationships that is “labor intensive” and intrinsically satisfying when set within a social context rich in enduring, reciprocal interpersonal relationships. The principal threats to the quality of social life are trends toward universalistic rather than particularistic systems for evaluating individuals, and materialistic rather than social criteria for evaluating productivity. Both these trends threaten childrearing as a valued activity. Both emphasize the “hurdensomeness” of children. Large schools and socially isolated families are the contexts in which these two trends find their most dangerous expression. A sustainable society requires a pro-family orientation if it is to meet the needs of children and thus provide for the fundamental psychic needs of adults. A variety of implications for individual action and social planning are derived from this discussion. These implications include the need to preserve and restore socially strong neighborhoods, reduce school size, and conduct “family impact analysis” as a basis for guiding decisions in the public and private sectors.
A neuronal network model of primary visual cortex explains spatial frequency selectivity

We address how spatial frequency selectivity arises in Macaque primary visual cortex (V1) by simulating V1 with a large-scale network model consisting of O(10(4)) excitatory and inhibitory integrate-and-fire neurons with realistic synaptic conductances. The new model introduces variability of the widths of subregions in V1 neuron receptive fields. As a consequence different model V1 neurons prefer different spatial frequencies. The model cortex has distributions of spatial frequency selectivity and of preference that resemble experimental findings from the real V1. Two main sources of spatial frequency selectivity in the model are the spatial arrangement of feedforward excitation, and cortical nonlinear suppression, a result of cortical inhibition.
Advice-giving using REASON: an intelligent assistant for interactive computing

Investigates the application of fairly well-understood artificial intelligence techniques in novel ways to provide intelligent help. The authors describe the design methodology used to build REASON (Real-time Explanation And Suggestion), an intelligent user-assistant prototype for a windowed multitasking environment. When the user asks a question using natural language or makes an error, it offers dynamically generated suggestions about what the user might have intended based on the context of the interaction. In addition, REASON can provide two complementary types of explanations of these responses derived from the inferences that led to them. >