cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toward Universal Photodynamic Coatings for Infection Control

The dual threats posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) have emphasized the urgent need for self-disinfecting materials for infection control. Despite their highly potent antimicrobial activity, the adoption of photoactive materials to reduce infection transmission in hospitals and related healthcare facilities has been severely hampered by the lack of scalable and cost-effective manufacturing, in which case high-volume production methods for fabricating aPDI-based materials are needed. To address this issue here, we examined the antimicrobial efficacy of a simple bicomponent spray coating composed of the commercially-available UV-photocrosslinkable polymer N-methyl-4(4'-formyl-styryl)pyridinium methosulfate acetal poly(vinyl alcohol) (SbQ-PVA) and one of three aPDI photosensitizers (PSs): zinc-tetra(4-N-methylpyridyl)porphine (ZnTMPyP4+), methylene blue (MB), and Rose Bengal (RB). We applied these photodynamic coatings, collectively termed SbQ-PVA/PS, to a variety of commercially available materials. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) confirmed the successful application of the coatings, while inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) revealed a photosensitizer loading of 0.09-0.78 nmol PS/mg material. The antimicrobial efficacy of the coated materials was evaluated against methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus ATCC-29213 and human coronavirus strain HCoV-229E. Upon illumination with visible light (60 min, 400-700 nm, 65 +/- 5 mW/cm2), the coated materials inactivated S. aureus by 97-99.999% and HCoV-229E by 92-99.999%, depending on the material and PS employed. Photobleaching studies employing HCoV-229E demonstrated detection limit inactivation (99.999%) even after exposure for 4 weeks to indoor ambient room lighting. Taken together, these results demonstrate the potential for photodynamic SbQ-PVA/PS coatings to be universally applied to a wide range of materials for effectively reducing pathogen transmission.
Asynchronous and Distributed Data Augmentation for Massive Data Settings

Data augmentation (DA) algorithms are widely used for Bayesian inference due to their simplicity. In massive data settings, however, DA algorithms are prohibitively slow because they pass through the full data in any iteration, imposing serious restrictions on their usage despite the advantages. Addressing this problem, we develop a framework for extending any DA that exploits asynchronous and distributed computing. The extended DA algorithm is indexed by a parameter $r \in (0, 1)$ and is called Asynchronous and Distributed (AD) DA with the original DA as its parent. Any ADDA starts by dividing the full data into $k$ smaller disjoint subsets and storing them on $k$ processes, which could be machines or processors. Every iteration of ADDA augments only an $r$-fraction of the $k$ data subsets with some positive probability and leaves the remaining $(1-r)$-fraction of the augmented data unchanged. The parameter draws are obtained using the $r$-fraction of new and $(1-r)$-fraction of old augmented data. For many choices of $k$ and $r$, the fractional updates of ADDA lead to a significant speed-up over the parent DA in massive data settings, and it reduces to the distributed version of its parent DA when $r=1$. We show that the ADDA Markov chain is Harris ergodic with the desired stationary distribution under mild conditions on the parent DA algorithm. We demonstrate the numerical advantages of the ADDA in three representative examples corresponding to different kinds of massive data settings encountered in applications. In all these examples, our DA generalization is significantly faster than its parent DA algorithm for all the choices of $k$ and $r$. We also establish geometric ergodicity of the ADDA Markov chain for all three examples, which in turn yields asymptotically valid standard errors for estimates of desired posterior quantities.
Effect of shrinkage-mitigating materials on performance of fiber-reinforced concrete – An overview

Abstract Fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) has been widely used due to its superior mechanical properties, ductility, and cracking resistance. However, fibers cannot completely hinder cracking resulting from shrinkage. The use of shrinkage-mitigating materials, such as expansive agent (EA), shrinkage-reducing admixture (SRA), and saturated lightweight sand (LWS) can be effective in securing FRC with low risk of cracking. The use of EA in the presence of fibers, causes expansion into the concrete matrix, which is counteracted by the fibers. This interaction creates a uniformly compressive pre-stress or self-stress in the matrix, which can limit shrinkage. The counter shrinkage performance can be promoted by shrinkage-reducing admixtures (SRA) or internal curing (IC) by porous aggregate. This paper provides a comprehensive review of studies on the synergetic effect of shrinkage-mitigating strategies on FRC performance. The review indicated that the coupled effect of fibers and EA can moderately enhance mechanical properties of FRC due to the pre-stressing of fibers. Different types of EAs up to 10% mass of cementitious materials, depending on the moist curing duration, can improve compressive and flexural properties. The binary system of various types of fibers and over 1% SRA may reduce mechanical properties and enhance autogenous and drying shrinkage properties, significantly. The addition of EA to the binary system of fiber and SRA can limit the degree of reduction in mechanical properties and reduce autogenous and drying shrinkage. The ternary combination of fiber, EA, and LWS can significantly promote high resistance to autogenous and total shrinkage. Statistical data analysis shows the two-way interactions of Fiber-SRA, Fiber-EA, and Fiber-LWS are significant in affecting compressive strength of FRC. The most important factors affecting the flexural strength of FRC are Fiber-SRA and Fiber-LWS. All of the two-, three- and four-way interactions of these factors have a significant effect on shrinkage properties of FRC. Based on the literature’s results and desirability numbers from the statistical analysis, the optimum contents of EA, SRA, and LWS can range between 5–10%, 1–2%, and 10–25%, respectively.
Thyroid hormone and circadian regulation of the binding activity of a liver-specific protein associated with the 5'-flanking region of the S14 gene.

Abstract Recent studies have described a DNase I hypersensitive site in the 5'-flanking region of the rat hepatic S14 gene that is closely associated with its expression. A 111-base pair subfragment (-389 to -279) of this region interacts specifically in a gel shift assay with a protein present in hepatic nuclear protein extracts. This protein, designated P1, was not present in extracts of other tissues, even those in which the gene is expressed and hormonally regulated. The binding activity of P1 is exceedingly low in extracts from hypothyroid rats and is markedly increased by administration of thyroid hormone. However, the slow accumulation of P1 after thyroid hormone administration indicates that increased levels of P1 are not necessary for the acute hormonal induction of S14 gene expression. The level of P1 binding activity increases in the evening, synchronous with circadian variation of hepatic mRNA S14. Since neither P1 binding activity nor circadian variation in mRNA-S14 levels are observed in the other tissues expressing the S14 gene, P1 may function to modulate the circadian rhythm observed in hepatic S14 gene expression. DNase I footprinting analysis revealed that P1 binds to a defined nucleotide sequence, 5'-AAAAGAGCTATTGATTGCCTGCA-3', located between -310 and -288 in the S14 gene.
THE METALLICITY OF HIGH-VELOCITY CLOUD COMPLEX C

Using archival Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) and Hubble Space Telescope (HST) data, we have assembled a survey of eight sight lines through high-velocity cloud Complex C. We find that the metallicity of the complex, based on [OI/HI], ranges from 0.1Z–0.25 solar. These data indicate that parts of the cloud have a higher metallicity than previously thought and that Complex C may represent a mixture of “Galactic fountain” gas with infalling low-metallicity gas. Further, we find that the abundances of O, Si, and S are enhanced relative to N and Fe, suggesting that the bulk of the metals in Complex C were produced by Type II supernovae.
EIR pareto as a prioritization tool for factory improvements

This paper will describe a methodology to prioritize factory indicators using EIR (EDO Improvement Ratio). The purpose of the EIR methodology is to set priorities between and within improvement teams in order to optimize the allocation of limited factory resources (both people and $) without defocusing from the overall factory priority-Maximum number of Good dice. Historically, during a ramp of a factory with a new technology, there are four indicators that compete for the limited resources of the factory: equipment installation, output improvement, line yield and die yield. In the initial phase of the ramp, equipment installation tends to be a priority and as the installations are completed, die yield takes the top priority followed by the other indicators. In a dynamic situation, it is not always easy to set priorities of the different teams (installation, improvement, line yield, die yield) with changing parameters (run rates, defects, utilization, losses) especially when the same resources are shared between multiple indicators.
Physical elder abuse perpetrated by relatives with serious mental illness: A preliminary conceptual social–ecological model

It is estimated that between 16% and 38% of all elder abusers have a history of mental illness, with most such persons likely having serious mental illness (SMI). Despite the disproportionality of elder abuse perpetrated by persons with SMI, elder abuse and mental health researchers have failed to examine factors associated with the occurrence of elder abuse perpetrated by persons with SMI. By integrating research findings regarding perpetration of community and family violence by persons with SMI and elder abuse perpetrated by persons regardless of their mental health status, this article proposes a preliminary conceptual social-ecological model to explain the occurrence of physical elder abuse perpetrated by persons with SMI. It is intended for this model to further stimulate and guide research in this area. It is imperative that research be conducted regarding factors associated with the perpetration of physical elder abuse by persons with SMI as it is a prerequisite for the creation of practice and policy interventions aimed at preventing and intervening in elder abuse perpetrated by this population. Language: en
Assessing the correlation between C3d-binding de novo donor specific HLA antibodies and rejection in kidney transplant recipients

Aim Solid phase assays have the ability to detect even low levels of HLA antibodies, but potentially lack the ability to distinguish between clinically relevant or irrelevant DSA. Here we test the clinical significance of a novel C3d binding assay. Methods Serum samples from 85 kidney transplant recipients were retrospectively analyzed using the Immucor© Single Antigen immunoassays, to detect either IgG or C3d binding HLA antibodies. Inclusion criteria included patients that developed de novo DSA by Luminex One Lambda (OL) single antigen assay and had a biopsy obtained at the same time point as the serum sample. Median fluorescence intensity (MFI) value of 1000 was arbitrarily used to assign positive responses. Results Of the 85 patients: 21 had AMR, 12 cell-mediated rejection (CMR), 11 mixed rejection (AMR + CMR), 4 with pathologic finding other than rejection, such as BK virus, and 41 had normal biopsies. C3d DSA were detected in 16/85 patients with the majority having AMR in 11/16 patients (69%) compared to 1/16 patients (6%) with CMR, 2/16 patients (12.5%) with a mixed rejection, and 2/16 patients (12.5%) with negative biopsies. These 2 negative biopsy patients had strong MFI values for Immucor IgG DSA and strong titers on the OL platform; moreover, both of these patients went on to have AMR later on. Immucor IgG assay detected 29/85 patients with DSA, in which, the majority of C3d positive DSA (16/16) being Immucor IgG class II DSA-positive. Immucor IgG positive DSA with negative C3d results had lower MFI (Fig. 1). All the C3d positive assays corresponded to moderate to high titer OL results (titers ⩾ 1 : 64 ), although three samples had class II specificities with titers ⩾ 1 : 128 were not C3d positive. Conclusion C3d-binding antibodies seem to be associated with stronger antibodies with at least moderate level titer and rejection. Further studies are required to substantiate our results. Download : Download full-size image
Sentinel lymph node biopsy during prophylactic mastectomy: Is there a role?

Purpose We investigated rates of occult malignancy in the breast and sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in patients undergoing prophylactic mastectomy (PM) and whether routine sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is justified. Methods A retrospective review of our database identified patients undergoing PMs with SLNB. Descriptive statistics were utilized for data summary. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results There were 384 patients during the study period who underwent 467 PMs. Of the 467 PMs, 15 (3.2%) cancers were found on final pathology. All 6 of the invasive cancers identified were T1. A total of 682 SLNs were taken for an average of 1.46 SLNs per PM. There were 5 positive SLNs (1.1%). All were in patients undergoing contralateral PM for either history of breast cancer or new diagnosis of breast cancer. Only one patient with a positive SLN was found to have an occult breast malignancy in the PM specimen. Conclusion In 467 PMs performed, 15 (3.2%) occult malignancies were found in the breast and 5 (1.1%) positive SLNs were found. Based on these results, the routine use of SLNB at the time of PM is unnecessary and does not warrant the morbidity associated with this procedure. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:747–750. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Review of “Connecting Kids to History with Museum Exhibitions”

Like ancient Gaul, this book is divided into three parts: kids, interpretation, and exhibitions. Each part features articles written by colleagues of the editors, seemingly those who helped them as...
‘The Feast of the Ants’: Agency, the Body, and Qur'anic Narrative in Hisham Matar's In the Country of Men

Representations of the Qur'an in English fiction conventionally focus on the text as having problematic agency; when read, it inhibits the passive reader through commandments that prompt violence and interfere with personal freedoms and human rights. Recuperative texts focus instead on the Qur'an's affirmative spiritual aspects. Rather than flipping the dichotomy of the active agent/passive object, what if the relationship between narrative and reader subjectivity is seriously reconsidered? Hisham Matar's In the Country of Men explores the situations in which narratives – including those in the Qur'an – are made to be authoritative and effective. The Qur'anic story of Solomon and the ants resonates throughout a novel in which the narrator, Suleiman, learns to differentiate between the legitimate uses of narrative and the discourse of power abused by a corrupt Libyan government and a patriarchal society. It explores the slippages between networks of agencies that are prefigured in Suleiman's childhood narr...
A review of recent research on spelling

Research on spelling ability has witnessed a vigorous but fragmented growth in the last decade. A theory on the cognitive mechanisms of spelling remains elusive, as does a unified approach to spelling instruction. The idea that spelling competence unfolds in a series of developmental stages has gained popularity. Despite a lack of clear empirical support for the model, its impact on spelling instruction in the schools is growing. Research on traditional issues in teaching spelling continues unabated (size of word list, time between practice and test, immediacy of feedback), as well as investigation on innovative approaches (computers, group instruction). A creative technique applied in the early grades is invented spelling. Although popular and widely applied, its effectiveness remains unclear. Research is beginning to indicate that reading and spelling may be separable but related cognitive processes and that spelling ability involves two processing systems-phonological and lexical. Finally, experiencing incorrect spellings may be detrimental to spelling performance, and more research is needed on this issue.
Iron bcc-hcp transition: Local structure from x-ray-absorption fine structure

The x-ray-absorption fine-structure technique has been utilized to investigate the pressure-induced bcc-hcp transition in iron from a local structural perspective. Our measurements of the associated lattice constants show a structurally distorted hcp phase with an anomalously large $c/a$ ratio during the transition as reported by previous x-ray-diffraction measurements. We have also observed a structurally distorted bcc phase with an anomalously large lattice constant during the transition. These anomalies are attributed to interfacial strain between the bcc and hcp phases. A transition model based on lattice shearing movements and occurrence of an intermediate fcc structure is consistent with our data and previous results.
Kir2.6 Regulates the Surface Expression of Kir2.x Inward Rectifier Potassium Channels

Precise trafficking, localization, and activity of inward rectifier potassium Kir2 channels are important for shaping the electrical response of skeletal muscle. However, how coordinated trafficking occurs to target sites remains unclear. Kir2 channels are tetrameric assemblies of Kir2.x subunits. By immunocytochemistry we show that endogenous Kir2.1 and Kir2.2 are localized at the plasma membrane and T-tubules in rodent skeletal muscle. Recently, a new subunit, Kir2.6, present in human skeletal muscle, was identified as a gene in which mutations confer susceptibility to thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis. Here we characterize the trafficking and interaction of wild type Kir2.6 with other Kir2.x in COS-1 cells and skeletal muscle in vivo. Immunocytochemical and electrophysiological data demonstrate that Kir2.6 is largely retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, despite high sequence identity with Kir2.2 and conserved endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi trafficking motifs shared with Kir2.1 and Kir2.2. We identify amino acids responsible for the trafficking differences of Kir2.6. Significantly, we show that Kir2.6 subunits can coassemble with Kir2.1 and Kir2.2 in vitro and in vivo. Notably, this interaction limits the surface expression of both Kir2.1 and Kir2.2. We provide evidence that Kir2.6 functions as a dominant negative, in which incorporation of Kir2.6 as a subunit in a Kir2 channel heterotetramer reduces the abundance of Kir2 channels on the plasma membrane.
Meyer-Neldel rule in charge-trapping metastability in p-type hydrogenated amorphous silicon

Measurements of capacitance transients due to charge-carrier emission from metastable defects in p-type hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) $p/n$ junction structures show that both holes and electrons can be metastably trapped in the p layer. At 350 K electrons and holes are emitted at the same rate, thereby defining the isokinetic temperature ${(T}_{\mathrm{iso}})$ for the Meyer-Neldel rule. The enthalpy changes for hole and electron emission are 0.94 and 0.51 eV, respectively. Charge emission rates are measured above and below ${T}_{\mathrm{iso}}.$ The entropy changes for hole and electron emission are 31 and 17 Boltzmann constants, respectively. Below ${T}_{\mathrm{iso}}$ electrons are emitted faster than holes, and above ${T}_{\mathrm{iso}}$ the reverse is true. These relative changes in emission rates are a direct consequence of the large entropy changes in the defect reactions. ${T}_{\mathrm{iso}}$ within experimental error, is the same as the H glass equilibration temperature (360 K) measured by others in p-type a-Si:H. Arguments are presented suggesting that the defect reactions measured here are involved in H glass equilibration.
Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1: a potential regulator of monocyte recruitment in inflammatory disease

The appearance of specific types of leukocytes in inflammatory infiltrates may be governed by cell-specific chemoattractants called chemokines. In particular, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) has been implicated in diseases characterized by monocyte-rich infiltrates, including atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. While we are beginning to understand the structural determinants that govern the activities of MCP-1 in vitro, we know much less about its physiological functions in vivo and its pathogenetic role in disease. However, recent data from genetically modified mice have begun to place MCP-1 in a central position in monocyte trafficking and activation.
Screening the Speech of Young Patients with Sickle Cell Disease

Ten percent of 50 young patients with sickle cell disease failed a speech screening. Such a failure rate is higher than expected and suggests that routine speech screening should be conducted.
On the interval number of a chordal graph

The interval number of a (simple, undirected) graph G is the least positive integer t such that G is the intersection graph of sets, each of which is the union of t real intervals. A chordal (or triangulated) graph is one with no induced cycles on 4 or more vertices. If G is chordal and has maximum clique size ω(G) = m, then i(G) ⩽ [1 + o(1)]m/log2m and this result is best possible, even for split graphs (chordal graphs whose complement is also chordal).
An experimental study of mixed convection around a rotating isothermal cylinder

Abstract The mixed convective flows generated by a heated rotating horizontal cylinder have been investigated experimentally. The presence of rotation represents an important complication and extension of previous studies on convective flow and heat transfer around heated stationary horizontal cylinders in an otherwise quiescent medium. Significant qualitative, as well as quantitative, differences in the heat transfer characteristics and flow patterns generated by the rotating cylinders are observed as compared to those for stationary cylinders. When the Reynolds number reaches a value corresponding to the rotational parameter σ ≡ Gr/Re2 being just below unity, the thermal plume becomes unstable and eventually breaks down. This event corresponds to the onset of a secondary mean flow which appears to be periodic in the axial direction. Mean Nusselt number measurements are presented, which show a dramatic increase in heat transfer at the onset of the secondary flow. Also, the structure of the secondary flow and the behavior of the plume are elucidated through Schlieren photography.
Scalars coupled to fermions in 1+1 dimensions

Using a method introduced in an earlier paper, we study a Bose field coupled to a Fermi field in 1+1 space-time dimensions. We employ the standard Hamiltonian formalism in which one computes the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian matrix. The matrix elements are computed using states defined on a lattice in momentum space. The results are compared with known strong and weak coupling limits. Bound states and renormalization effects are studied. We find that the choice of bare masses which give specified physical masses can be non-unique once a critical couplingλμ has been exceeded.
Resolving magnetic flux patches at the surface of the core

The geomagnetic field at a given epoch can be used to partition the surface of the liquid outer core into a finite number of contiguous regions in which the radial component of the magnetic flux density, B (sub r), is of one sign. These flux patches are instrumental in providing detail to surface fluid flows inferred from the changing geomagnetic field and in evaluating the validity of the frozen-flux approximation on which such inferences rely. Most of the flux patches in models of the modem field are small and enclose little flux compared to the total unsigned flux emanating from the core. To demonstrate that such patches are not required to explain the most spatially complete and accurate data presently available, those from the Magsat mission, I have constructed a smooth core field model that fits the Magsat data but does not possess small flux patches. I conclude that our present knowledge of the geomagnetic field does not allow us to resolve these features reliably at the core-mantle boundary; thus we possess less information about core flow than previously believed.
Membrane potential and impedance of developing fucoid eggs

Abstract Within 7 hr after fertilization, the fucoid egg's membrane potential rises from about −20 mV to −80 mV (Fig. 4) and within 12 hr after fertilization its conductance rises 8-fold (Fig. 7). Its changing responses to rapid individual ion concentration changes (Table 1) imply permeability changes which help explain these electrical ones: Thus the resting potential and conductance of the unfertilized egg seem to be mainly explained by pathways jointly permeable to K + , Mg 2+ , and to a lesser degree Na + ; those of the developing egg by potassium channels in parallel with less conductive chloride channels. In the unfertilized state the egg's membrane is passive; by a few hours after fertilization it responds sharply and within 1 msec to imposed currents sufficient to shift its potential by more than 20 mV; responding to outward current by reducing the resultant voltage change and to inward current by increasing it (Figs. 6 and 7). It is speculated that these responses may respectively serve to start and stop natural transcellular current surges. Finally, the scattered literature on comparable electrical changes in developing eggs, from algae to amphibians, is culled and organized (Table 7); the main features shown by the fucoid egg are remarkably general.
The Structural Characteristics of Global Law for the 21st Century: Fracture, Fluidity, Permeability, and Polycentricity

Global law can be understood as the systematization of anarchy, as the management of a loosely intertwined universe of autonomous governance frameworks operating dynamically across borders and grounded in functional differentiation among governance communities. More conventionally, global law can be defined as the law of non-state governance systems. Global law posits a stable universe of objects of regulation around which governance systems multiply, the inverse of the traditional approach to law grounded on the presumption of a dynamic population bound to static and stable systems. The essay considers the structure of global law in this context, understood as an amalgamation of four fundamental characteristics that together define a new order in form that is, in some respects, the antithesis of the orderliness and unity of the law-state system it will displace (though not erase). These four fundamental characteristics—fracture, fluidity, permeability, and polycentricity—comprise the fundamental structure of global law. These also serve as the structural foundations of its constitutional element, its substantive element, and its process element. The essay considers each in turn in the construction of global law.
Abnormal sterol metabolism in patients with Conradi-Hünermann-Happle syndrome and sporadic lethal chondrodysplasia punctata.

The term, "chondrodysplasia punctata" (CDP) denotes a pattern of abnormal punctate calcification of dystrophic epiphyseal cartilage and certain other cartilaginous structures, such as the larynx. CDP occurs in a variety of genetic disorders associated with skeletal dwarfism and can also be caused by prenatal exposure to warfarin. Although the most studied clinical syndrome with CDP, rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP), is known to be caused by several different abnormalities of plasmalogen biosynthesis, there are many other genetic disorders with CDP for which the biochemical cause is unknown. Because patients with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, a primary disorder of sterol biosynthesis, often have rhizomesomelic limb shortness and, less commonly, CDP, we assessed sterol levels and metabolism in patients with different clinical forms of CDP. By quantitative sterol analysis of a variety of tissues, we identified 5 patients with similar radiological findings and abnormally increased levels of 8-dehydrocholesterol and cholest-8(9)-en-3beta-ol, suggesting a deficiency of 3beta-hydroxysteroid-delta8,delta7-isomerase, a principal enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis. Cultured cells available from one patient showed increased levels of the same two sterols, decreased synthesis of cholesterol, and a pattern of inhibition by triparanol and AY-9944 consistent with a deficiency of 3beta-hydroxysteroid-delta8,delta7-isomerase. Clinical diagnoses among the 5 patients included X-linked dominant Conradi-Hunermann-Happle syndrome and nonspecific lethal CDP. We conclude that abnormal cholesterol biosynthesis is a characteristic of some clinical syndromes with rhizomesomelic dwarfing and CDP.
Communication via Facial Cues in Intimate Dyads

The communication of emotion via spontaneous nonverbal expression was studied as it functions in the social penetration process. Two measures of nonverbal sensitivity to facial cues, sensitivity to general or unknown others and sensitivity to a dating partner, were obtained with seventeen exclusively dating, but noncohabiting couples. It was predicted from social penetration theory that both the duration of the relationship and the degree of involvement in the relationship would be reflected in the dating partner's sensitivity to one another. Neither prediction was supported.
Evaluating the risk of dependence in activities of daily living among community-living older adults with mild to moderate cognitive impairment.

BACKGROUND Although cognitive impairment has been implicated as a risk factor for dependence in activities of daily living (ADLs), little is known about the risk of ADL dependence among older adults with cognitive impairment. METHODS Among a representative cohort of 1,103 community-living adults aged 72 years and older, we evaluated the 237 subjects with mild to moderate cognitive impairment who were independent in their basic ADLs. All cohort members had undergone a comprehensive assessment, including a battery of qualitative and timed performance tests. RESULTS ADL dependence developed in 31 (16%) of the 197 subjects who had complete data at the 1-year follow-up. Of the self-reported characteristics, only three--living alone, not being currently married, and having an impairment in IADL function--were significantly associated (p < .05) with the onset of ADL dependence. Several simple tests of physical performance, on the other hand, were strongly associated with the development of ADL dependence. Both timed and qualitative performance tests successfully identified subjects at risk for ADL dependence. A combination of two performance tests--rapid gait and qualitative chair stands--was particularly effective at distinguishing subjects at low (4.7%) and high (34%-39%) risk for ADL dependence. CONCLUSIONS Among community-living older adults with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, the risk of ADL dependence is high but varies considerably depending on how well and how quickly one can perform simple tasks of everyday function. An assessment strategy based on tests of physical performance may allow clinicians to identify subgroups of cognitively impaired elders at low and high risk for ADL dependence.
THE IMPACT OF THE ETHNICITY AND GENDER OF DEFENDANTS ON THE DECISION TO REJECT OR DISMISS FELONY CHARGES

While social scientists have long been interested in the issue of racial and sexual discrimination within the criminal justice system, they have concentrated on the decisions to convict and sentence and have paid relatively little attention to the decision to prosecute. This study examines the issue of pretrial discrimination by focusing on the prosecutor's decision to reject or dismiss charges against black, Anglo, and Hispanic male and female defendants in Los Angeles. The data reveal a pattern of discrimination in favor of female defendants and against black and Hispanic defendants. Hispanic males are most likely to be prosecuted fully, followed by black males, Anglo males, and females of all ethnic groups.
AT1 Receptors and Control of Blood Pressure: The Kidney and More…

The renin–angiotensin system (RAS) is a critical regulator of blood pressure and fluid homeostasis. The components of the RAS including renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme, and angiotensin receptors are expressed throughout the body in tissues that may impact blood pressure control. Blocking actions of individual components of the RAS including renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme, or the type 1 (AT 1 ) receptor lowers blood pressure. Although it has been suggested that control of sodium excretion by the kidney is the dominant mechanism for blood pressure regulation by the RAS, pharmacologic antagonists or conventional gene-targeting experiments globally interrupt the RAS and cannot discriminate its actions in the kidney from other tissue compartments. Recent experiments with the use of kidney cross-transplantation and genetically engineered mice suggest independent and equivalent effects of angiotensin II acting via AT 1 receptors in the kidney and in extrarenal tissues to maintain the normal level of blood pressure. However, the nature and relative contributions of these actions may differ in hypertension.
Contribution of electromechanical coupling between KV and CaV1.2 channels to coronary dysfunction in obesity

Previous investigations indicate that diminished functional expression of voltage-dependent K+ (KV) channels impairs control of coronary blood flow in obesity/metabolic syndrome. The goal of this investigation was to test the hypothesis that KV channels are electromechanically coupled to CaV1.2 channels and that coronary microvascular dysfunction in obesity is related to subsequent increases in CaV1.2 channel activity. Initial studies revealed that inhibition of KV channels with 4-aminopyridine (4AP, 0.3 mM) increased intracellular [Ca2+], contracted isolated coronary arterioles and decreased coronary reactive hyperemia. These effects were reversed by blockade of CaV1.2 channels. Further studies in chronically instrumented Ossabaw swine showed that inhibition of CaV1.2 channels with nifedipine (10 μg/kg, iv) had no effect on coronary blood flow at rest or during exercise in lean swine. However, inhibition of CaV1.2 channels significantly increased coronary blood flow, conductance, and the balance between coronary flow and metabolism in obese swine (P < 0.05). These changes were associated with a ~50 % increase in inward CaV1.2 current and elevations in expression of the pore-forming subunit (α1c) of CaV1.2 channels in coronary smooth muscle cells from obese swine. Taken together, these findings indicate that electromechanical coupling between KV and CaV1.2 channels is involved in the regulation of coronary vasomotor tone and that increases in CaV1.2 channel activity contribute to coronary microvascular dysfunction in the setting of obesity.
Inclusion Ability of 4-Phenylpyridine-Extended Nickel(II) Dibenzoylmethanate, a New Metal−Complex Host†

A new host complex, [Ni(4-PhPy)2(DBM)2], has been prepared by modification of nickel dibenzoylmethanate (Ni(DBM)2; DBM = C6H5COCHCOC6H5-) with 4-phenylpyridine (4-PhPy). Of 17 organic solvents that were tested as guest candidates, 6 inclusion compounds were isolated, mostly as bulk products. All compounds were characterized with XRD methods. With benzene, fluoro-, chloro-, and bromobenzenes, toluene, and o-xylene, 1:1 inclusions form; they are all green, relatively stable, and isostructural (triclinic, P1, Z = 2). The guest species accommodate flattened cages formed upon van der Waals packing of host molecules. The guest inclusion influences the distortion in the bischelate fragment of the host molecule, as the dihedral angle between two chelate rings ranges up to 12°. This distortion is probably responsible for the green color of these phases. The series of inclusions exhibits an order of thermal stability opposite to that which would be expected from the volativity of the neat guests; the order indicat...
Selective Inhibition of Nucleic Acid Synthesis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Isoniazid

THE physiological basis of the bactericidal action of isoniazid (isonicotinic acid hydrazide) on Mycobacterium tuberculosis is unknown, although several hypotheses have been proposed1–4. The work recorded here on the effect of isoniazid on macromolecule synthesis in this organism was prompted by the finding that isoniazid is bactericidal only for actively growing cells5.
Serodiagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis: pathobiologic and clinical implications.

Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) is a rather specific disease process, characterized by necrotizing granulomatous lesions of the upper and lower re­ spiratory tract, necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis, and small-vessel vasculitis. The disease is relatively uncommon and manifests with considerable variability in tempo and extent of organ involvement, from limited forms with minor renal abnormalities to fulminating alveo­ lar hemorrhage and necrotizing glomerulonephritis. The differential diagnosis includes other vasculitides and granulomatoses, such as classic polyarteritis nodosa, microscopic and hypersensitivity vasculitides, Goodpasture's syndrome, the allergic vasculitis of Churg and Strauss, necrotiz­ ing sarcoid, and lymphomatoid granulomatosis. For the diagnosis of WG, histologic examination of affected tissue is usually necessary. Pathologically, the pulmonary lesions of WG consist of nodular infiltrates of abscesslike col­ lections of polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) sur­ rounded by varied numbers of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and palisading histiocytes, fibroblasts, and giant cells that overlie a destructive vasculitis. Other features include microabscesses within and around vessels, intravascular lysis of PMN in conjunction with endothelial necrosis, and a PMN capillaritis of microvessels. The renal lesions of focal glomerulitis are less specific. The recent demonstrations that PMN anticytoplasmic antibodies (ACPA) are present in many cases of WG, as highlighted by Specks and col­ leagues in this issue of the Proceedings (pages 28 to 36), provide possible insights into the pathogenesis of WG and a potentially useful diag­ nostic test. In this editorial, we consider some df the pathobiologic and clinical implications of measurements of these antibodies.
The IBM speech-to-speech translation system for smartphone: Improvements for resource-constrained tasks

This paper describes our recent improvements to IBM TRANSTAC speech-to-speech translation systems that address various issues arising from dealing with resource-constrained tasks, which include both limited amounts of linguistic resources and training data, as well as limited computational power on mobile platforms such as smartphones. We show how the proposed algorithms and methodologies can improve the performance of automatic speech recognition, statistical machine translation, and text-to-speech synthesis, while achieving low-latency two-way speech-to-speech translation on mobiles.
Loss of motion after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

We did a retrospective review and follow-up examina tion to investigate the incidence, risk factors, and out come of patients who developed loss of motion after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Two hundred forty-four patients with a minimum fol lowup of 1 year were reviewed. Loss of motion (defined as a loss of extension of more than I0° or flexion of less than 125°) was identified in 27 patients for an overall incidence of 11.1%. Factors associated with loss of motion included acute reconstruction (less than 1 month from initial injury), male sex, and concomitant medial collateral ligament repair or posterior oblique ligament reefing or both. Twenty-one patients required surgery to regain their motion; three patients required a second procedure.Twenty-one of 27 patients with loss of motion under went a detailed followup and were compared with 24 randomly chosen controls who had a normal range of motion after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. At followup, patients who exper...
Flame Holding and Combustion Characteristics of a Geometrical Flame Holder

Flame Stabilization in a high-speed premixed environment requires the presence of a mechanism to stabilize the flame. Bluff bodies or geometrical flame holders introduce a recirculation zone that anchor the flame. The current study considers the influence of equivalence ratio and the boundary layer state at the trailing edge of the flame holder on the flowfield and combustion characteristics. It was found that the recirculation zone is shortened as the equivalence ratio increases towards unity. A secondary shear region emerges downstream of the recirculation zone and is caused by the accelerated low-density combustion products. The emergence of the secondary shear region moves upstream with increasing equivalence ratio. Tripping the boundary layer causes a dramatic reduction in the length of the recirculation zone, and the secondary shear region is greatly augmented. Visualizations show that tripping the boundary layer resulted in a greatly disturbed flame near the trailing edge and large flame scales. Flowfield measurements suggest that the heat release is increased by approximately 50% when the boundary layer tripped.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Serum protein and renal tissue binding of 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid.

Abstract The herbicide 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) has a low-to-moderate toxicity in animals; however, high doses of 2,4,5-T have been shown to cause various toxic effects in mammals. Although this compound can be rapidly eliminated from the body by renal transport, there are circumstances wherein large amounts of this compound persist in the plasma and are accumulated by the kidney for prolonged periods of time. In order to determine the nature of this retention, 2,4,5-T binding to plasma proteins and renal tissue has been examined. The present results indicate that 2,4,5-T is bound extensively to plasma protein which could limit renal clearance of the herbicide. In addition, 2,4,5-T is bound to the microsomal and cytosol fractions of the renal cortex. One site has been found for 2,4,5-T binding to the microsomes. This site has an association constant (Ka) of 2.4 × 103 m −1 and a binding capacity (n) of 17.5 μmol/g protein. Two 2,4,5-T binding sites have been found for the cytosol fraction. The first is a high affinity (Ka1 = 1.5 × 104 m −1) and low capacity (n1 = 4.48 μmol/g protein) site, while the second is a low affinity (Ka2 = 0.04 × 103 m −1) and high capacity (n2 = 630 μmol/g protein) site. These renal binding sites could explain the retention of 2,4,5-T in the kidney and may play a role in the nephrotoxicity of this herbicide.
Dielectric measurements of frozen silt using time domain reflectometry

Abstract Dielectric properties of ice-rich frozen silt from the permafrost tunnel at Fox, Alaska, have been measured both in the field and in the laboratory, using time domain reflectometry (TDR). Undisturbed field samples obtained with a modified CRREL core barrel were placed in a specially adapted rigid coaxial line mated to the TDR unit. The volumetric water content of the undisturbed samples varied between 65 and 81% and the sample temperature was approximately −7.0°C. The laboratory samples were reconstituted with volumetric water content between 0 and 55%. Temperature was varied between +25° and −25°C. The data were processed to cover the frequency range of 0.05–1.0 GHz. For the undisturbed samples, dispersion tended toward a maximum between 0.3 and 1.0 GHz. The range for the real part of the dielectric coefficient was 3.8–5.3 at the low frequency end, while the imaginary part varied between 0.01 and 0.42 for the entire frequency range. These results from the field studies agree with laboratory measurements and other field observations, indicating that the TDR core barrel sampler is an effective technique for measuring dielectric properties of undisturbed samples. This method could easily be applied for in situ dielectric testing of frozen fine-grained soils and ice.
Missed opportunities to immunize: psychosocial and practice correlates.

Abstract Background: The goal of this pilot study was to correlate missed opportunities to immunize young children with providers’ psychosocial characteristics and self-reported immunization practices. Methods: In a population of children aged 0 to 36 months, missed opportunities to immunize were established for a sample of 28 providers, who also responded to a valid and reliable instrument measuring the aforementioned variables. Results: Missed opportunities were significantly lower among providers with higher vested interest ( r =−0.45, p =0.02) and tended to be lower among providers with more positive attitudes toward having all children properly immunized at every healthcare visit ( r =−0.33, p =0.09). Neither knowledge nor perceived barriers correlated significantly with missed opportunities. Providers missed opportunities to immunize in over half of the visits studied (mean, 0.58), yet all of them reported always immunizing at preventive and follow-up visits, almost all (96.3%) at chronic illness visits, and a majority (78.6%) at acute care visits. As a result, none of the self-reported immunization practices was significantly correlated with missed opportunities. Conclusions: Missed opportunities appear to be best predicted by motivational psychosocial factors and not by knowledge or perceived barriers. Self-reported immunization practices do not correspond to actual immunization behavior.
Electrocatalytic activity of Pd-Co bimetallic mixtures for formic acid oxidation studied by scanning electrochemical microscopy

The electrochemical oxidation of formic acid was studied by the tip generation-substrate collection (TG-SC) mode of scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), extending the number of applications of SECM in electrocatalysis. Formic acid was generated at a Hg on Au ultramicroelectrode (UME) tip by reduction of CO2 in a 0.1 M KHCO3 solution saturated with this gas. The electrocatalytic activity of different Pd−Co bimetallic compositions was evaluated using a Pd−Co electrocatalyst array formed by spots deposited onto glassy carbon (GC) as a SECM substrate. The SECM tip, which generated a constant formic acid flux, was scanned above the array and the oxidation current generated when formic acid was collected by active electrocatalytic spots was displayed as a function of tip position. This generated a SECM image that showed the electrocatalytic activity of each spot. SECM screening identified Pd50Co50 (Pd/Co = 50:50, atomic ratio) as a better electrocatalyst toward the formic acid oxidation than pure Pd or P...