cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Future optical ISL characteristics from the perspective of large commercial constellations

The birth of large LEO constellations dedicated to personal communications in the past few years has created formidable new tasks for the space industry. Systems such as the IRIDIUM$^{\scriptsize{\circledR}}$ Program, Globalstar$^{\scriptsize{\circledR}}$, and Odyssey$^{\scriptsize{\mathrm{TM}}}$ challenge the long standing paradigm on how to design, build, and launch satellites. A second generation of big LEOs is now being planned to offer broadband services for Internet access, cellular backhaul, videoconferencing and distance learning. Systems such as Teledesic$^{\scriptsize{\mathrm{TM}}}$ and M-Star are planned to make extensive use of inter-satellite links. Until now, these crosslinks have been implemented using RF technology, but as the data rate of these systems increases, serious consideration must be given to the use of optical inter-satellite links. Much has been discussed in the media over the past years about the relative merits of both optical and RF approaches. This paper avoids this debate, and examines the reasons that RF technology currently dominates inter-satellite links. The cost of existing optical terminals for space has is measured in the millions to tens of millions of dollars. These figures often compare to the total on-orbit cost of the satellites in commercial constellations. Clearly, a significant paradigm shift will be required in order for producers of optical ISLs to realize a business from these commercial satellite programs. This paper discusses both the technical and programmatic requirements of terminals for such systems in order to provide the industry a better understanding of upcoming needs and constraints essential for their success.
Energy Spectra of Some Molecules

Section III.1 discusses how the energy levels of a quantum-mechanical system emitting dipole radiation are observed. A derivation of the transition probability is not given. In Section III.2 the defining relations of angular momentum are established. Section III.3 derives the representations of the algebra of angular momentum. In Section III.4 the energy spectrum of a rotator is derived and compared with the experimental spectrum of diatomic molecules. Section III.5 contains the basic assumption about the physical combination of two nonidentical quantum-mechanical systems and the application of this assumption to the description of vibrating and rotating diatomic molecules.
Waveform-generator-based sine PWM scheme for resonant DC link inverters

The complete control circuit of a simple resonant DC link (RDCL) inverter with sinewave PWM is presented. The sine and triangular waveforms for deriving the PWM control signals are obtained using waveform generating ICs. The different waveforms obtained on an experimental RDCL inverter along with the frequency spectra are presented. The control circuit first developed for a single-phase inverter is later extended to a three-phase inverter. >
The Emerging Role of Nuclear Viral DNA Sensors

Detecting pathogenic DNA by intracellular receptors termed "sensors" is critical toward galvanizing host immune responses and eliminating microbial infections. Emerging evidence has challenged the dogma that sensing of viral DNA occurs exclusively in sub-cellular compartments normally devoid of cellular DNA. The interferon-inducible protein IFI16 was shown to bind nuclear viral DNA and initiate immune signaling, culminating in antiviral cytokine secretion. Here, we review the newly characterized nucleus-originating immune signaling pathways, their links to other crucial host defenses, and unique mechanisms by which viruses suppress their functions. We frame these findings in the context of human pathologies associated with nuclear replicating DNA viruses.
Cisplatin enhances the antitumor effect of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand gene therapy via recruitment of the mitochondria-dependent death signaling pathway

Despite adequately expressing tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) receptors DR4/DR5, malignant cells are frequently refractory to the cytotoxic effect of this apoptosis-inducing ligand. The susceptibility of cancer cells to TRAIL can be potentiated by cisplatin (CDDP). This study was designed to evaluate the ability of cisplatin to enhance the cytotoxic effect of TRAIL gene therapy using the recombinant adenovirus-mediated tumor-selective expression of membrane-bound green fluorescence protein (GFP)-TRAIL fusion protein (AdVgTRAIL) on thoracic cancer cells and to elucidate the putative mechanisms responsible for this synergistic combination effect. While causing little death of cultured thoracic cancer cells by itself, AdVgTRAIL in combination with CDDP, on the other hand, mediated profound supra-additive cytotoxicity and apoptosis via a strong bystander effect. CDDP/AdVgTRAIL-induced cytotoxicity was completely abrogated either by the pancaspase inhibitor zVAD-fmk or by the selective caspase 9 inhibitor or by transient knockdown of caspase 9 by siRNA, indicating that this process was caspase-mediated and mitochondria-dependent. This was confirmed by the observation that Bcl2 overexpression protected the cells from combination-induced cytotoxicity. Robust activation of caspase 8 activity in combination-treated cells was blocked by overexpression of Bcl2, indicating that caspase 8 activation was secondary to the mitochondria-mediated amplification feedback loop. Combining CDDP with AdVgTRAIL greatly enhances its tumoricidal efficacy in cultured thoracic cancer cells in vitro. The two agents interact to mediate profound activation of caspase cascade via recruitment of the mitochondria and positive feedback loop. The CDDP/AdVgTRAIL combination also exhibits a strong antitumor effect in in vivo animal model of human cancer xenografts.
CONTRACTOR-PERFORMED QUALITY CONTROL: IS THE FOX GUARDING THE HENHOUSE?

At the same time that state departments of transportation are allowing contractor-performed quality control, they are also concerned about using the contractor-reported data for acceptance and payment purposes. The question is, are we putting the fox in charge of guarding the chickens? To address this concern, a large number of asphalt and concrete projects in Kentucky were examined. The statistical analyses showed that for the most part there is no significant difference between the contractor-performed acceptance data and concomitant highway agency-performed verification data. This is obviously a very encouraging finding that is expected to enhance the level of trust between the contractors and highway agencies.
Polymorphism in the Crystallization Behavior of Trinitrocobalt(III) Complexes with Tridentate Amine Ligands: Hydrogen-Bonding Analysis and Syntheses of Racemic and Conglomerate mer-Co(dpt)(NO2)3

Three trinitrocobalt(III) complexes with three different chelating amine ligands have been prepared and structurally characterized in order to record their crystallization modes. The meridional isomers of Co(Me-aepn)(NO2)3·H2O and Co(Me-dpt)(NO2)3 (Me-aepn = N,N-bis((2-aminoethyl)methyl)-1,3-propanediamine; Me-dpt = 3,3‘-diamino-N-methylpropanediamine) crystallize as simple racemates, but intermolecular hydrogen bonds between homochiral molecules are observed in their packing structures. Both racemic (Pcab) and conglomerate (P212121) forms of mer-Co(dpt)(NO2)3 (dpt = N-(3-aminoethyl)-1,3-propanediamine) have also been prepared by two different synthetic approaches, and their molecular structures are compared. The two are different in the torsional angles associated with the three NO2 groups and in the conformation of one of the two six-membered chelate rings.
Evaluation of Experimental and Practical Diets for Walleye Stizostedion vitreum

Culture of walleye Sfizostedion vitreum is one of the largest components of public sector aquaculture in the eastern U.S. and there is increasing interest in private sector culture. However, the nutritional requirements of walleye are unknown and experimental diets for use in quantifying nutritional requirements have not been identified. We formulated four experimental and four practical diets and fed those to triplicate groups of walleye with an initial weight of 13 g per fish. The experimental diets contained either casein (CAS), casein + gelatin (CG), casein + arginine (CA), or casein + gelatin + crystalline amino acids (CGAA) as sources of amino acids. The practical diets were formulated to mimic salmon grower (SG) and trout grower (TG) diets, a fish meal-free diet for trout (TFMF), and a walleye grower (WG) diet. Fish were fed twice daily to satiation for 9 wk. Feed consumption, percent weight gain, specific growth rates, feed efficiency, protein efficiency ratio, and protein retention efficiency were not significantly different among fish fed CGAA, SG, and TG, but those values were significantly higher than in fish fed other diets. Weight gain of fish fed CGAA was approximately 80% of that in fish fed SG and 91% of that in fish fed TG. Protein retention efficiency of fish fed CGAA was approximately 69% and 81% of that observed for fish fed SG, and TG, respectively. In general, the carcasses of fish fed diets CGAA, SG and TG had significantly lower moisture and ash concentrations, and higher lipid levels than fish fed other diets. There were no significant differences in carcass protein concentration, muscle proximate composition, or liver lipid concentration among treatments. Livers from fish fed all diets were characterized by microvesicular degeneration and glycogen accumulation in hepatocytes. Results from the study indicate that CGAA can be used as a basal experimental diet in future nutritional research with juvenile walleye and confirms the benefits of trout and salmon grower diets. Fish meal-free diets formulated around the requirements for rainbow trout were consumed at approximately 80% of the values in fish fed TG and SG, but weight gain was approximately 20% of that in fish fed TG and SG. It appears the nutritional requirements for walleye are different than those of rainbow trout.
Identification of cAMP binding proteins associated with the plasma membrane of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Summary We have investigated the major 3′:5′-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) binding proteins associated with the plasma membrane of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. At least four proteins with apparent molecular weights of 25,000, 34,000, 46,000 and 58,000 have been identified using the photo-affinity probe 8-azidoadenosine[32P]3′:5′-monophosphate (8-N3-[32P]cAMP). Together, they constitute a homogeneous population of binding sites interacting with the photoaffinity ligand in a non-cooperative fashion.
Pathobiology of sudden death: coronary causes

Abstract The single most common cause of sudden death in the western world is coronary artery disease. Sudden death from coronary causes occurs equally in asymptomatic patients, patients with angina, and patients with a known history of myocardial infarction. The mechanism of sudden coronary death in most patients is ventricular fibrillation secondary to ischemia. Microthrombi in intramyocardial coronary arteries may also play a role. Instability of atherosclerotic plaques, in terms of thrombosis and vasoreactivity, underlies the syndrome of unstable angina as well as many cases of acute myocardial infarction. Sudden coronary death falls within this spectrum of ischemic heart disease. Development of these syndromes depends on the abruptness of onset and the completeness and duration of coronary occlusion. Thus a rapidly evolving coronary artery lesion, with plaque fissure, rupture, and luminal thrombosis, can lead to myocardial ischemia, with fatal electrical instability of the myocardium as the first clinical manifestation. The diagnosis of sudden coronary death in the absence of myocardial infarction is determined by the degree of coronary artery narrowing and the exclusion of other causes of death. The presence of acute coronary artery lesions, which may be present in a significant number of sudden coronary death patients, lends support to the pathologic diagnosis. Thus the coronary arteries in victims of sudden coronary death may exhibit established atherosclerotis or acute lesions, whereas the myocardium may appear normal or show healed or acute infarction or hypertrophy. Although less common, nonatherosclerotic coronary artery diseases can account for sudden death as well, particularly in younger patients. Therefore, when sudden death occurs in children and young adults, coronary causes related to congenital anomalies, fibromuscular dysplasia, arteritis, or metabolic diseases should be considered.
P‐25: A LCOS Microdisplay Driver with Frame Buffering Pixels

An 8-bit LCOS microdisplay driver for projection display has been designed and fabricated using AMI 0.5 um double-poly, triple-level metal CMOS process. The driver includes new frame buffer pixels which presents optimized optical characteristics for Field Sequential Color technique, and a mixed mode grayscale method which implements distinct 256 gray levels per color with a simple driver architecture. The voltage at the frame buffer pixels varies from 0 to 4.25 volts. The new frame buffer pixels enables a LCOS microdisplay to improve brightness without the loss of contrast ratio.
Optical Design For Laser Diode Based Communication Utilizing Heterodyne Detection

Optics for laser diode based communication must be designed with the laser source in mind. Heterodyne detection is possible if the optical design allows efficient mode matching between the signal and local oscillator field.
Effect of left ventricular assist device placement on preexisting implantable cardioverter-defibrillator leads.

Abstract Background The left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a therapy for patients with end-stage heart failure, many of whom have a preexisting implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). We investigated whether the implantation of a LVAD affects ICD function. Methods and Results Patients implanted with a LVAD between September 2000 and February 2009 were studied. Right ventricular (RV), right atrial, and left ventricular lead impedance, sensing, and capture thresholds were recorded before and after LVAD placement and subsequent lead-related interventions were noted. Of the 61 patients receiving a LVAD, data were collected from 30 patients who had preexisting ICDs. Significant pre-post differences were noted for all RV lead parameters: sensing amplitude decreased from 9.2±3.1 to 5.7±3.6 millivolts ( P P =.008); and threshold increased from 4.3±6.7 to 11.0±16.8 microjoules ( P =.021). As a result of alterations in lead parameters, 4 patients (13%) required lead revisions and 6 patients (20%) required ICD testing. Conclusions Differences in ICD lead function were observed after LVAD placement resulting in clinically significant interventions. These data suggest that ICD interrogation be performed post-LVAD placement and that patients be counseled for the potential need for lead revisions and ICD testing when consented for a LVAD.
May photoinhibition be a consequence, rather than a cause, of limited plant productivity?

Photoinhibition in leaves in response to high and/or excess light, consisting of a decrease in photosynthesis and/or photosynthetic efficiency, is frequently equated to photodamage and often invoked as being responsible for decreased plant growth and productivity. However, a review of the literature reveals that photoinhibited leaves characterized for foliar carbohydrate levels were invariably found to possess high levels of sugars and starch. We propose that photoinhibition should be placed in the context of whole-plant source–sink regulation of photosynthesis. Photoinhibition may represent downregulation of the photosynthetic apparatus in response to excess light when (1) more sugar is produced in leaves than can be utilized by the rest of the plant and/or (2) more light energy is harvested than can be utilized by the chloroplast for the fixation of carbon dioxide into sugars.
Effect of loss control service on reported injury incidence.

Abstract Introduction : A retrospective analysis evaluated the effectiveness of an insurance carrier's flexible loss control service strategy in reducing workers' compensation policyholders' reported injury and illness claims. Objectives : To assess the effects of a loss control service strategy on workers' compensation claim frequency rates, on medical-only claim rates, on severity-claim rates, and on claim cost among a group of California employers. Methods : Eighty-two small- and medium-sized companies with workers' compensation policies expiring in 1999 were randomly selected from a population of policyholders assigned to loss control consultants for two or more years. Claim performance data were obtained for each company's first expired in-force policy year and its 1999 expired policy year. The retrospective design was combined with a control component based on a randomly selected comparison group of 45 companies whose first policy year with the insurer expired in 1999 and who received safety services from the loss control staff. Results : The flexible loss control consultation service strategy was associated with lower average claim rates and costs. Companies assigned to a loss control consultant for two or more years (the “outcome group”) had an average claim rate of 1.24 per $10,000 premium, compared with a rate of 1.62 in the “initial group” and a rate of 1.60 in the “comparison group.” The average severity-claim rate of the outcome group was 0.32, compared with the initial-year and comparison-group means of 0.48 and 0.46, respectively. The average medical-only claim rate was 0.92, compared with the initial- and comparison-group means of 1.14 and 1.14. The outcome group's average loss ratio was over 10% lower than that of the initial and comparison groups. Statistical analysis indicated that differences among the groups' claim rates and severity-claim rates were [ F =(2,206) 4.938, P =0.008] and [ F =(2,206) 8.208, P Conclusions : A loss control service strategy that provides service flexibility and develops partnership between employer and consultant can help reduce the frequency and severity of workers' compensation claims. Barriers to consultation service flexibility, both internal and external, should be identified and removed to enhance service efficacy.
Multiple simultaneous detection of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) through a high throughput bead array technology, with potential use in phytoplankton community analysis

As an alternative to traditional, morphology-based methods, molecular techniques can provide detection of multiple species within the HAB community and, more widely, the phytoplankton community in a rapid, accurate and simultaneous qualitative analysis. These methods require detailed knowledge of the molecular diversity within taxa in order to design efficient specific primers and specific probes able to avoid cross-reaction with non-target sequences. Isolates from Florida coastal communities were sequence-analyzed and compared with the GenBank database. Almost 44% of the genotypes obtained did not match any sequence in GenBank, showing the existence of a large and still unexplored biodiversity among taxa. Based on these results and on the GenBank database, we designed 14 species-specific probes and 4 sets of specific primers. Multiple simultaneous detection was achieved with a bead array method based on the use of a flow cytometer and color-coded microspheres, which are conjugated to the developed probes. Following a parallel double PCR amplification, which employed universal primers in a singleplex reaction and a set of species-specific primers in multiplex, detection was performed in a cost effective and highly specific analysis. This multi-format assay, which required less than 4 h to complete from sample collection, can be expanded according to need. Up to 100 different species can be identified simultaneously in a single sample, which allows for additional use of this method in community analyses extended to all phytoplankton species. Our initial field trials, which were based on the 14 species-specific probes, showed the co-existence and dominance of two or more species of Karenia during toxic blooms in Florida waters.
Effect of body incline on cardiac performance

Maximal cardiac performance is improved in man during upright compared to supine exercise. Whether cardiac performance in quadrupeds is dependent upon body position is unknown. Therefore, we undertook the present investigation to determine if peak cardiac output (Qpeak) would be influenced by body inclination in the Thoroughbred horse. To test the hypothesis, four Thoroughbred horses performed an incremental exercise protocol (speed increased by 1 m/s/min to fatigue) on both a level (L) and inclined (I: 6 degrees) treadmill. Specifically, we hypothesised that Qpeak would be increased on the incline, as this represents a progression towards upright exercise. Cardiac output was determined using the Fick relationship from continuous measurements of pulmonary VO2 and paired arterial (carotid artery or transverse facial) and mixed venous (pulmonary artery) samples. Qpeak was significantly increased on the incline (L: 279 +/- 20; I: 336 +/- 17 l/min; P<0.05), while CaO2 was not significantly different (L: 25.5 +/- 1.1; I: 25.4 +/- 1.9 ml/100 ml), and therefore, whole body O2 delivery (QO2) was significantly increased (L: 70.7 +/- 4.9; I: 84.4 +/- 3.1 l/min; P<0.05). In conclusion, within the scope of this investigation, these data suggest that cardiac performance, as judged by increased Qpeak and QO2, is enhanced in the inclined body position. Furthermore, these findings provide preliminary information that level and incline treadmill exercise tests may yield significantly different results in the Thoroughbred horse and consequently this factor should be considered when interpreting exercise testing and performance data.
Multisensory connections of monkey auditory cerebral cortex

Functional studies have demonstrated multisensory responses in auditory cortex, even in the primary and early auditory association areas. The features of somatosensory and visual responses in auditory cortex suggest that they are involved in multiple processes including spatial, temporal and object-related perception. Tract tracing studies in monkeys have demonstrated several potential sources of somatosensory and visual inputs to auditory cortex. These include potential somatosensory inputs from the retroinsular (RI) and granular insula (Ig) cortical areas, and from the thalamic posterior (PO) nucleus. Potential sources of visual responses include peripheral field representations of areas V2 and prostriata, as well as the superior temporal polysensory area (STP) in the superior temporal sulcus, and the magnocellular medial geniculate thalamic nucleus (MGm). Besides these sources, there are several other thalamic, limbic and cortical association structures that have multisensory responses and may contribute cross-modal inputs to auditory cortex. These connections demonstrated by tract tracing provide a list of potential inputs, but in most cases their significance has not been confirmed by functional experiments. It is possible that the somatosensory and visual modulation of auditory cortex are each mediated by multiple extrinsic sources.
Neuregulin-1β modulates in vivo entorhinal–hippocampal synaptic transmission in adult rats

Neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) proteins and their erbB receptors are essential for neuronal development during embryogenesis and may contribute importantly to neuronal function in the adult brain. This study tests the hypothesis that NRG-1beta acts as a modulator of synaptic activity in the adult brain, specifically at hippocampal formation synapses. Adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized and a recording electrode with an attached stainless steel microinjector was stereotaxically positioned to record field potentials (fEPSP) in either the dentate gyrus or the cornu ammonis (CA) 1 field of the hippocampus. The entorhinal cortex was continuously stimulated via a paired stainless steel electrode. Microinjection of NRG-1beta significantly increased the slope of the fEPSP in the dentate gyrus in a dose-dependent manner. Compared with a low dose (20 nM), a high dose (100 nM) of NRG-1beta induced a shorter latency response that was of greater magnitude. Responses to NRG-1beta were abolished by pretreatment with a selective, reversible erbB tyrosine kinase inhibitor, PD158780 (100 microM). Further, PD158780 (100 microM) itself significantly decreased the entorhinal-dentate fESPS slope by about 15%. Neither equimolar (100 nM) nor hypermolar (100 microM) sucrose or heat-inactivated NRG-1beta (100 nM) significantly altered the entorhinal-dentate fEPSP slope. In contrast to its effect at the entorhinal-dentate synapse, NRG-1beta (100 nM) depressed, and PD158780 potentiated entorhinal-CA1 synaptic transmission. Thus, in adult rats NRG-1beta potentiates transmission at the entorhinal-dentate synapse but suppresses transmission at the entorhinal-CA1 synapse. These observations indicate that NRG-1 is not only a developmental growth factor, but also modifies synaptic transmission in adult rat brain.
The utilization of trifluorothymidine (TFT) to select for thymidine kinase-deficient (TK−/−) mutants from L5178Y/TK+/− mouse lymphoma cells

Trifluorothymidine (TFT), a thymidine analog, was analyzed for its ability to select for thymidine kinase-deficient (TK-/-) mutants. In comparison with BUdR, the traditional selective agent for TK-/- cells, it was determined that TFT at 1/50th the dose (1 microgram/ml vs. 50 microgram/ml) is a more effective and versatile selective agent for TK-/- mutants arising from the TK+/- -3.7.2C heterozygote of L5178Y mouse lymphoma cells. Since TFT acts more rapidly than BUdR, it can be utilized in procedures (such as the analysis of the phenotypic lag) requiring the fast arrest of cell division. Reconstruction analyses of effective TK-/- mutant recovery indicate that TFT can be used to recover mutants from significantly higher densities of TK+/- cells than can BUdR. In addition, TK-/- mutants can attain larger colony size in TFT than in BudR where severe stunting of growth occurs at high TK-/- cell densities. 190 of 194 isolated TFT-resistant large and small colony mutants (both spontaneous and induced).
The inhibition of the maturation of newly synthesized bone collagen by beta-aminopropionitrile in tissue culture.

SummaryThe effect of βAPN on bone collagen was studied in tissue culture. It was found that the lathryrogen modified the solubility characteristics of only that fraction of collagen which was synthesized in the presence of βAPN, and did not affect the bone collagen which was synthesized prior to the exposure of the tissue to βAPN.
Isotropy and Homogeneity of the Universe from Measurements of the Cosmic Microwave Background

A Dicke radiometer (3.2-cm wavelength) was used to make daily scans near the celestial equator to look for possible anisotropy in the cosmic blackbody radiation. After about one year of intermittent operation we find no 24-h asymmetry with an amplitude greater than \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1% (of 3\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K). There is, however, a possibly significant 12-h anisotropy with an amplitude of about 0.2%.
Long-term culture of oligodendrocytes isolated from rat corpus callosum by Percoll density gradient. Lysis by polyclonal antigalactocerebroside serum.

Oligodendrocytes isolated from the corpus callosum of four-week-old rats by trypsinization and Percoll density gradient centrifugation were cultured on poly- 1-lysine coated coverslips. Some cells extended short processes within 24 hours (h), and at that time up to 95% of the cells showed surface binding of rabbit antiserum to galactocerebroside (anti-GalC) as demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence. Oligodendrocytes survived up to two months in culture, extending processes with membranous elaborations. Exposure of living oligodendrocytes to varying dilutions of rabbit anti-GalC serum in the presence of complement produced cytotoxicity which was directly proportional to the concentration of antiserum and duration of exposure, as assessed by a nigrosin dye exclusion test. This system of isolating and culturing rat oligodendrocytes will permit further developmental and immunologic studies related to demyelinating diseases.
Kinetic and immunochemical characterization of low-activity serum alpha-L-fucosidase from a phenotypically normal individual.

Abstract Low-activity serum α- l -fucosidase from a phenotypically normal individual has been characterized kinetically and immunochemically. No significant difference was seen in apparent Km for the 4-methylum-belliferyl substrate when compared to normal serum α- l -fucosidase. Isoelectric focusing indicates that low-activity serum α- l -fucosidase is less acidic (and probably less sialylated) than the normal serum enzyme. The low-activity serum α- l -fucosidase has a neutrally shifted pH optimum profile and exhibits decreased thermostability. Immunochemical studies suggest that the low-activity α- l -fucosidase is antigenically similar to the normal serum enzyme.
The contribution of external control to self-control in a weight reduction program

Abstract A weight reduction program emphasizing self-control was presented to 20 volunteers under three different conditions. One group met weekly with E and received mild social reinforcement for progress. A second group had contact only by mail. They self-monitored food intake and mailed the records to E daily; he mailed a new supply of envelopes back to them each week. A third group had no ongoing contact. There were no differences in weight loss between the contact groups and both lost significantly more weight than the no contact group. Results were discussed in terms of the information value or signalling function of external contact in treatment programs emphasizing self-control.
Pharmacological characterization of recombinant bovine α3β4 neuronal nicotinic receptors stably expressed in HEK 293 cells

Abstract In these studies, [ 3 H]epibatidine is used as the radioligand to characterize recombinant bovine α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) expressed in HEK 293 cells. Specific binding reaches equilibrium quickly and is saturable with a K d value of 0.66 nM. The affinities of the several cholinergic agents were determined, including nicotine ( K i , 0.5 μM), cytisine ( K i , 0.5 μM), carbachol ( K i , 4.1 μM), dihydro-(β)-erythroidine ( K i , 43.5 μM), d-tubocurarine ( K i , 0.1 μM), 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium ( K i , 0.5 μM), decamethonium ( K i , 175 μM) and methyllycaconitine ( K i , 0.4 μM). These studies show that the pharmacological characteristics of recombinant bovine α3β4 nAChRs are similar to native bovine α3β4* nAChRs, and indicate that the α5 subunit, if present in the native nAChRs, does not affect ligand affinity.
Cultural Internationalism at the Cite Universitaire: International Education between the First and Second World Wars.

In the 1920s, French scholars and bureaucrats created the Cite Universitaire in Paris. The institution housed university students from around the world. The Cite founders formulated a model for the Cite that reflected ideological concerns in interwar Europe with a focus on pacifism, international education and cultural internationalism. The organisers of the Cite attempted to adhere to these theories to make the organisation viable in the politically strained interwar era while simultaneously demonstrating the continued excellence of French education. The French attempted to combine the goals of international education with the continued hope of national educational superiority. This article describes Germany and France as the earlier ‘national competition’ model of education. It traces the early history of the Cite as it incorporated the new international education model. Finally, it examines sports and social gatherings at the Cite, which was used as a specific venue to show examples of cooperative exch...
Preparation of functionalized polycarbonates via ring-opening polymerization of diverse mixed oligomeric cyclic carbonates

The preparation and polymerization of a variety of cyclic oligomeric carbonates containing diverse functionality is described. The preparation of bisphenols containing ether, amide, ester, urethane, etherketone, or ethersulfone functionalities is described. The functionalized bisphenols were converted to dichloroformates via phosgenation, and were subjected to cyclization reactions, forming cyclic oligomeric carbonates containing various functionality. Anionic, ring-opening polymerization of the cyclic oligomers leads to high molecular weight polymers containing carbonate and other functionality. Depending on the nature of the functionalized bisphenol starting material, the product polymers may be alternating, block, or random copolymers.
Development of Chemosensitivity in Serotonin-Deficient Spinal Cords of Rat Embryos

The characteristics of serotonin-induced potentials change during normal development of spinal cords of rat embryos. These changes are temporally correlated with the growth of serotonin projections into the spinal cord. To determine whether serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) in the growing projections is responsible for modulating the changes in neuronal responses to 5-HT, 5-HT synthesis was blocked, and motoneuron responses to exogenous 5-HT were studied 1-2 weeks later. Starting at Day 9 of gestation, prior to the generation of 5-HT neurons in the medulla, pregnant rats were injected daily with p-chlorophenylalanine (p-CPA) which suppressed 5-HT synthesis. p-CPA was effective in reducing 5-HT concentrations because immunoreactive 5-HT projections were absent in embryonic spinal cords of p-CPA-treated rats. However, suppression of 5-HT synthesis did not affect the onset and time course of development of 5-HT-induced potentials. Furthermore, in the absence of 5-HT, the potentials generated by 5-HT were significantly larger than those produced in motoneurons of control rats. These findings indicated that the number of receptors or their binding affinity increased in the absence of 5-HT. The increased responses in p-CPA-treated rats were mediated via 5-HT2/5-HT1C receptors, while activation of other 5-HT1 receptor subtypes and 5-HT3 receptors induced similar depolarizations in p-CPA-treated and untreated rats. Our study suggested that 5-HT was not required for the onset of receptor expression in developing spinal neurons, but it may be responsible for receptor down-regulation.
Women of War: Emotional Needs of Ethnic Albanians in Refugee Camps:

This qualitative study identified the emotional needs of female Kosovar refugees in southern Albania in May 1999, about 1 month following their flight from Kosovo. Common themes that emerged from the interviews included dealing with trauma, anxiety, and boredom and maintaining the hope that they would return home. On the basis of the findings, along with feminist theories as guiding concepts, the authors offer recommendations for the prevention of further trauma and treatment options for women in refugee camps.
Laser-Induced Fluorescence Measurements of OH in Laminar C2H6/O2/N2 Flames at High Pressure

Abstract Using the laser-induced fluorescence method, we have measured relative OH concentration profiles in flat laminar, lean premixed C2H6/O2/N2, flames at 3.2, 6.3, 9.5, and 12.6 atm. By employing a range of flow rates of the combustible mixture, we demonstrate that the reaction zone can be probed at these pressures. In comparison to atmospheric flames, the reaction zone was small and accordingly the [OH] gradient was large; we also observed large gradients in the OH recombination zone. A result of the large gradients is an increase in the noise of the fluorescence signal compared to that at atmospheric pressure. Another impediment to making measurements was beam steering resulting from flame instability, which increased with pressure. We therefore limited our measurements to 12.6 atm.
Effects of Temperature on the Circadian Rhythm of Navel Orangeworm Sexual Activity

Field observations were made on the timing of sexual activity of the navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella (Walker), for 18 nights, from early April through October, 1979 and 1980. Throughout most of the summer, female calling and male attraction to calling females occurred from 1 to 3 h before sunrise but shifted to earlier, warmer hours on cool spring and autumn nights. A linear relationship existed between temperature and time of onset of female calling when measured from sunrise. Male activity was limited to temperatures >11°C and may have been inhibited by the increasing light intensity of approaching sunrise.
Action Thresholds for Potato Leafhopper on Potatoes in Minnesota

The appropriate action threshold for application of insecticidal sprays to control potato leafhopper, Empoasca fabae (Harris), on potatoes, Solanum tuberosum (L.), appeared to be ca. 10 nymphs/105 leaves. Applying treatments only when leafhopper populations reached 30 or more nymphs/105 leaves resulted in hopperburn and yield reductions. Treating for 10 or fewer nymphs/105 leaves necessitated additional spray applications of minimal incremental value in crop protection, but which can trigger outbreaks of green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer). Only 2 spray applications were required when insecticidal applications were timed to coincide with peak nymphal populations in mid-July and mid-Aug. For these studies, essentially single species infestations of potato leafhopper were obtained by inter planting the potatoes with alfalfa strips.
Computers and materials for teaching adults problem solving

Educators have only superficially tapped computers as a source of learning materials, yet the computer is inherently a high-level, personalized learning environment.
Electrodynamic Interactions Between a Space Station and the Ionospheric Plasma Environment

A general analysis of the electrodynamic interactions between a space station with two exposed charged platforms and the ionospheric plasma is presented. We show that this problem can be separated into a far-field problem, concerned with the electromagnetic interference surrounding the entire space station, and a near-field problem, concentrated on the interactions in the vicinity of the biased platforms. Computer particle simulations as well as approximate analysis were carried out in the near field of the charged platform. Results of the plasma flowfield, the presheath and sheath structure, and current collection characteristics are obtained. The near-field solution is used to construct the perturbation current source in the far-field problem, which is solved by application of plasma fluid theory. It is found that the space station will generate a radiation field composed of the Alfven waves forming a "wing" structure. Based on our analysis, a global description of the space station's electrodynamic environment is obtained.
Prediction of precipitation-induced phlebitis: A statistical validation of an in vitro model

To avoid phlebitis, new intravenous (IV) parenterals are often screened by injection into animals. This method is not only expensive and time consuming, it is also detrimental to the animals. An alternate method, focusing on precipitation as the cause, uses an in vitro dynamic injection model that requires less money and time and reduces the need for live models. Validation of the dynamic injection apparatus, for predicting mechanical phlebitis, is established. Twenty-one currently marketed IV products were injected into isotonic Sorenson's phosphate buffer flowing at 5 mL/min. The resulting opacities, produced by precipitation, are measured in an ultraviolet flow cell. These opacity data, coupled with literature reports on phlebitis occurrence, were used to generate a logistic regression that indicates the probability of phlebitis given an opacity value measured by the apparatus. Regression results are supported by a receiver operator characteristic curve that establishes the most ideal cut-off opacity value. This opacity value provides the highest combined sensitivity (statistical power) and specificity while minimizing false-positive and false-negative results. Both analyses show that an opacity value of 0.003 best delineates phlebitic and nonphlebitic products. Measures of sensitivity (0.83), specificity (0.93), positive predictive value (0.93), and negative predictive value (0.78) indicate the model's predictive accuracy and reliability. These results support the use of the dynamic model in place of animals for preliminary phlebitis testing of new IV injectables. 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 92:1574-1581, 2003
Computational of coprime fractional representation of SISO systems

Abstract The application of classical compensator design techniques is limited, and they usually incorporate heuristics which heavily rely on the experience and judgement of the designer. Classical compensator design techniques when applied to high-order dynamic systems, unstable systems, or systems with rapid phase reduction at the cross-over is difficult, requires high-level of subjective judgement, and it may also be impossible to design a stable closed-loop system. An alternative approach to control system design is based on a factorization approach, and this technique does not have the above disadvantages. Since the factorization approach is algebraic, the level of subjective judgement of the designer is minimized, and the approach may easily be implemented on a digital computer. Before the factorization approach can be utilized, one has to solve for system coprime factors and the solution to the Bezout identity. In this paper, a software utility and the associated algorithms that allow computation of system coprime factors together with the solution to the Bezout identity are outlined.
Investigating ARIMA models of software system quality

In this paper, we investigate how to incorporate program complexity measures with a software quality model. We collect software complexity metrics and fault counts from each build during the testing phase of a large commercial software system. Though the data are limited in quantity, we are able to predict the number of faults in the next build. The technique we used is called times series analysis and forecasting. The methodology assumes that future predictions are based on the history of past observations. We will show that the combined complexity quality model is an improvement over the simpler quality only model. Finally, we explore how the testing process used in this development may be improved by using these predictions and suggest areas for future research.
Private blood factors, homozygosis, and the search for new blood groups.

LEVINE1, in a review of the newer blood factors, classed several of them as ‘private’. These, he said, “are characterized by the positive or negative reactions being limited to members of a particular family”. He cited as ‘private’ five antibodies reported by various investigators. J. J. van Loghem and van der Hart2 have since reported a sixth.
Omega: Pre-History of a Journal

Omega, Journal of Death and Dying, evolved from a newsletter prepared and distributed through a research project based in a geriatric hospital. This article recalls the context within which the newsletter originated, offers selections from its contents, and provides glimpses of an early phase in the development of thanatology. The transition from newsletter to journal is also described. Many questions raised and suggestions offered by contributors to the Omega Newsletter during its 1966–1968 run are still relevant today.
Stat3 Dimerization Regulated by Reversible Acetylation of a Single Lysine Residue

Upon cytokine treatment, members of the signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) family of proteins are phosphorylated on tyrosine and serine sites within the carboxyl-terminal region in cells. We show that in response to cytokine treatment, Stat3 is also acetylated on a single lysine residue, Lys685. Histone acetyltransferase p300-mediated Stat3 acetylation on Lys685 was reversible by type I histone deacetylase (HDAC). Use of a prostate cancer cell line (PC3) that lacks Stat3 and PC3 cells expressing wild-type Stat3 or a Stat3 mutant containing a Lys685-to-Arg substitution revealed that Lys685 acetylation was critical for Stat3 to form stable dimers required for cytokine-stimulated DNA binding and transcriptional regulation, to enhance transcription of cell growth-related genes, and to promote cell cycle progression in response to treatment with oncostatin M.
A constant current device for brain stimulation.

Abstract Two constant current devices are described. One is a DC active constant current source which can be used with glass capillary electrodes up to 300 MΩ over a range of 0–400 nanoA. The other is a 60 Hz sine wave active constant current source for stimulation through chronic implanted metal electrodes from 0–1 MΩ over a range of 0–100 μA.
Physical Interpretation and Mathematical Properties of the Stress-DLM Formulation for Rigid Particulate Flows

Abstract Patankar et al. (2000) presented a new formulation of the Lagrange-multiplier-based fictitious-domain method (DLM) for the direct numerical simulation of rigid particulate flows. The idea is to assume that the entire fluid-particle domain is some fluid and then to constrain the particle domain to move with a rigid motion by setting the deformation-rate tensor equal to zero. The constraint gives a vector Lagrange multiplier field in the particle domain. This approach is usually referred to as the stress-DLM formulation. We first discuss a physical interpretation of this formulation where we see that, with an appropriate choice of the constraint equations, the vector Lagrange multiplier field is in fact the displacement field of a linear elastic body. We theoretically investigate the existence and uniqueness properties of the stress-DLM formulation by considering a model problem. We find that the velocity and the Lagrange multiplier can be represented by an equal-order interpolation scheme in a fin...
Young Children’s Haptic Exploratory Procedures

Adults vary their haptic exploratory behavior reliably with variation both in the sensory input and in the task goals. Little is known about the development of these connections between perceptual goals and exploratory behaviors. A total of 36 children ages 3, 4, and 5 years and 20 adults completed a haptic intramodal match-to-sample task. Participants were instructed to feel the shape, texture, rigidity, or weight of a sample object and then were asked to find which of three test objects matched the sample on that specific property. Hand movements were examined to determine whether children produced the same exploratory procedures while gathering perceptual information about each property as adults who searched for the same kind of information. Children demonstrated that they had good haptic abilities in two ways: They matched the sample objects on the specified perceptual dimension at near ceiling levels, and they produced the same hand movement patterns to find the same properties as adults.
The national large bowel cancer project a progress report

The progress report from the National Large Bowel Cancer Project updates the state of the art of investigations concerning causes, role of animal models, early diagnosis of disease including potential biochemical markers, genetic and pharmacological consideration, proventive measures, and new approaches to the treatment of large bowel cancer. It points out the many interrelations in the multidisciplinary approaches to understanding the mechanisms of disease, means of prevention, methods of earlier diagnosis, and development of rational approaches in the control of large bowel cancer.