cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recovery ofChlamydia trachomatis by inoculation of McCoy cell suspensions

Growth of two laboratory strains ofChlamydia trachomatis (Gambia 17 and UW 5) was compared in McCoy cell monolayers 1–3 days old and McCoy cells inoculated while in suspension (day 0). Both cell preparations were treated with cytochalasin B. Each chlamydial strain produced more inclusions in the cell suspension preparations than in monolayers. Efforts to inoculate cycloheximide-treated cells in suspension were unsuccessful because of the toxic effect of this chemical. When patient specimens were tested in cell suspensions and in monolayers, all positives were detected comparably in both systems, although bacterial contamination was more pronounced in the cell suspensions. The results indicate that cell suspensions can be used as a convenient and rapid supplement to preformed monolayers for chlamydial culture tests.
Gas absorption and solid dissolution in a thin liquid film on a rotating disk

Abstract Analytical and numerical solutions for mass transfer to a thin liquid film adjacent to a horizontal rotating disk are developed for the processes of gas absorption at the free surface and solid dissolution at the disk wall. The analytical approach was derived from a scaling analysis and presented solutions in closed form using confluent hypergeometric functions. The numerical approach solved the full three-dimensional transport equations. In the latter case, the location of the free surface was predicted by an iterative scheme and its irregular shape was preserved by employing a boundary-fitted curvilinear coordinate system for computation. Results are presented in non-dimensional form using Reynolds and Ekman numbers as parameters. It was found that for a given flow system, a significant enhancement of the absorption or dissolution rate can be achieved by increasing the angular velocity of the disk.
Computational analysis methods to quantify a.c. impedance data

Abstract For the interpretation of a.c. impedance data, two data analysis techniques are described and evaluated. The first method is a least squares analysis of a nonlinear model. Modifications to a previously published algorithm, CIRFIT, include a least squares estimate of the double layer capacitance. Also, two convergence techniques for CIRFIT were explored and evaluated. The second method is a nonlinear least squares analysis of an equivalent circuit consisting of three RC parallel combinations, the final circuit containing a diffusion limiting impedance. The method satisfactorily estimated the component values of the proposed equivalent circuit, even when two time constants were closely spaced. Both methods could be valuable in analyzing, modeling, and interpreting experimental a.c. impedance data.
Quantitative, three‐dimensional analysis of granule cell dendrites in the rat dentate gyrus

The three-dimensional organization of dentate granule cell dendritic trees has been quantitatively analyzed with the aid of a computerized microscope system. The dendrites were visualized by iontophoretic injection of horseradish peroxidase into individual granule cells in the in vitro hippocampal slice preparation. Selection criteria insured that the analyzed cells were completely stained and that only neurons with two or fewer cut dendrites in the distal portion of the molecular layer were analyzed. Twenty-nine of the 48 sampled granule cells had no cut dendrites. The granule cells had between one and four primary dendrites. Granule cell dendritic branches were covered with spines and most extended to the hippocampal fissure or pial surface. The mean total dendritic length was 3,221 microns with a range from 2,324 microns to 4,582 microns. The dendrites formed an elliptical plexus with the transverse spread averaging 325 microns and the spread in the septotemporal axis averaging 176 microns. On individual neurons, the maximum branch order ranged from four to eight and the number of dendritic segments ranged from 22 to 40. Approximately 63% of the dendritic branch points occurred in a zone that included the granule cell layer and the inner one-third of the molecular layer. The dendritic tree was organized so that, on average, 30% of the length was in the granule cell layer and proximal third of the molecular layer, 30% was in the middle third, and 40% was in the distal third. Comparisons were made between the dendrites of granule cells in the suprapyramidal and infrapyramidal blades of the dentate gyrus. Suprapyramidal cells had a significantly greater total dendritic length than infrapyramidal cells, their transverse spread was higher, and they had a greater number of dendritic segments. When neurons in the suprapyramidal blade were further subdivided on the basis of somal position within the depth of the cell body layer, superficial neurons were found to have a greater number of primary dendrites, more elliptical trees, and larger transverse spreads of their dendrites. There were no significant differences in dendritic segment number or total dendritic length between superficial and deep cells.
Risk-based environmental decision-making using fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (F-AHP)

Environmental risk management is an integral part of risk analyses. The selection of different mitigating or preventive alternatives often involve competing and conflicting criteria, which requires sophisticated multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is one of the most commonly used MCDM methods, which integrates subjective and personal preferences in performing analyses. AHP works on a premise that decision-making of complex problems can be handled by structuring the complex problem into a simple and comprehensible hierarchical structure. However, AHP involves human subjectivity, which introduces vagueness type uncertainty and necessitates the use of decision-making under uncertainty. In this paper, vagueness type uncertainty is considered using fuzzy-based techniques. The traditional AHP is modified to fuzzy AHP using fuzzy arithmetic operations. The concept of risk attitude and associated confidence of a decision maker on the estimates of pairwise comparisons are also discussed. The methodology of the proposed technique is built on a hypothetical example and its efficacy is demonstrated through an application dealing with the selection of drilling fluid/mud for offshore oil and gas operations.
Source and sink thermal resistance effects

ASTATIC ANALYSIS of the thermoelectric generator is necessary in order to specify the electrical loading condition for maximum energy conversion efficiency and to determine the corresponding efficiency. All previous writers on the subject have assumed that the temperatures of the thermal energy source and sink are fixed. This article is concerned with static performance of a thermoelectric generator which operates between a thermal source and a thermal sink having nonzero thermal resistances. This case of non-ideal thermal sources, in which the junction temperatures depend upon the rates of heat flow from the source and to the sink, becomes of greater importance as the conversion efficiency of the thermoelectric generator is increased.
Frame evolution: A new approach to understanding changes in diversity reforms at public universities in the United States

University diversity policy in the past two decades has shifted from rationales that focused on social justice to ones that emphasize educational excellence [Lipson, D. (2007, Fall). Embracing dive...
Exports, imports, and economic growth in semi-industrialized countries

Abstract Export-promotion policies as a superior development strategy for semi-industrialized countries (SICs) have found support in the statistically significant correlations established between export expansion and output growth. This positive export-GDP association is often attributed to the possible externalities of competition in world markets — e.g., efficiency of resource allocation, economies of scale, and various labor training and ‘demonstration’ effects. In this paper, we show that the correlation mainly has been due to the contribution of exports to the reduction of import ‘shortages’, which restrict the growth of output in many SICs. In this sense, export promotion is particularly important for countries that cannot obtain sufficient foreign aid or capital. A second contribution of this paper is the development of a simultaneous equations model to deal with the simultaneity problem between GDP and export growth rates.
Mechanisms of AV node reentrant tachycardia in young patients with and without dual AV node physiology.

Recent advances in electrophysiological mapping and radiofrequency catheter ablation have demonstrated the participation of perinodal atrial tissue or pathways in atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT). Current concepts of the role of these pathways in the genesis of the various forms of AVNRT continue to evolve. In view of these recent advances, this study investigated the electrophysiology of AVNRT in young patients, and factors potentially associated with variant forms of this arrhythmia. Detailed programmed stimulation and catheter mapping were performed in 35 consecutive young patients with AVNRT. This group consisted of 15 male and 20 female patients, with a mean age of 12.1 ± 4.2 years (range 3–18 years). Of the 35 patients, 23 demonstrated dual AV node physiology, either in response to a critically timed extrastimulus (n = 17) or to rapid pacing (n = 6). The common form (antegrade slow-retrograde fast) of AVNHT was demonstrated in 21 of these 23 patients. Antegrade fast-retrograde slow (n = 1) and antegrade slow-retrograde slow (n = 1) forms of AVNRT were identified in the 2 other patients. In contrast, only 5 of the 12 patients who did not demonstrate dual AV node physiology had the common form of AVNRT (P = 0.03). Eive of these patients also had the slow-slow form of AVNRT, while 1 patient each had a fast-slow and fast-fast form of AVNRT. Patients with dual AV node physiology were older (14.2 ± 2.0 years) and more likely to be female (16 of 23) than patients in whom dual A V node physiology was not identified, where the mean age was 10.6 ± 4.2 years and only 4 of 12 patients were female (P = 0.02 for age and P = 0.07 for gender). These observations suggest that the physiology of AV node reentry may evolve as a function of age, with slow-fast AVNRT prevalent in adolescents. However, absence of dual AV node physiology should not preclude diagnosis of AVNRT in young patients with supraventricular tachycardia, in whom atypical forms of AVNRT may be common.
Experimental Investigation of Signal Delay in A Multiscale Retransmission Meter

The results of experimental investigations into signal delay in a multifrequency retransmission meter are presented. The technique of decreasing measurement errors caused by unsuppressed sidetone occurring during transformations in the repeater has been verified experimentally
DIVIDEND POLICIES AND COMMON STOCK PRICES

Based upon the belief that stock-market behavior is susceptible of rationalization, an attempt is made in this paper to fabricate a theoretical model which depicts the relationship between dividend policies and common stock prices. Attention is of necessity restricted to the common stocks of large public corporations because of the imperfect market for the securities of small companies and of the close identification of small firms with their principal shareholders. The fundamental premise upon which the formulation rests is that, over longer periods, stock prices reflect the present values of expected dividends. The phrase "over long periods" is inserted to permit abstraction from the distortions caused by short-run speculative considerations.
Renal arterial blood flow measurement by breath-held MRI: Accuracy in phantom scans and reproducibility in healthy subjects

This study evaluates reliability of current technology for measurement of renal arterial blood flow by breath-held velocity-encoded MRI. Overall accuracy was determined by comparing MRI measurements with known flow in controlled-flow-loop phantom studies. Measurements using prospective and retrospective gating methods were compared in phantom studies with pulsatile flow, not revealing significant differences. Phantom study results showed good accuracy, with deviations from true flow consistently below 13% for vessel diameters 3mm and above. Reproducibility in human subjects was evaluated by repeated studies in six healthy control subjects, comparing immediate repetition of the scan, repetition of the scan plane scouting, and week-to-week variation in repeated studies. The standard deviation in the 4-week protocol of repeated in vivo measurements of single-kidney renal flow in normal subjects was 59.7 mL/min, corresponding with an average coefficient of variation of 10.55%. Comparison of renal arterial blood flow reproducibility with and without gadolinium contrast showed no significant differences in mean or standard deviation. A breakdown among error components showed corresponding marginal standard deviations (coefficients of variation) 23.8 mL/min (4.21%) for immediate repetition of the breath-held flow scan, 39.13 mL/min (6.90%) for repeated plane scouting, and 40.76 mL/min (7.20%) for weekly fluctuations in renal blood flow.
Evolution of the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry

The Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI) was first written in 1926 and has been revised several times since then. Over the decades, the terminology used in this system has changed. For instance, the income statement was referred to as the profit and loss statement in early editions, and the cigar stand was listed as an operated department as part of the income statement through the sixth edition but not thereafter. This article recapitulates the evolution of the USALI since its inception by examining and comparing the contents of this system from the first through the tenth editions. As such, the USALI is better understood.
Methane generation from the digestion of whey in a two-stage system

Abstract A two‐phase anaerobic process consisting of an acid and a methane phase in series was studied for the conversion of whey to methane. The acid phase was studied at retention times of 8, 16 and 24 h at pH 4 and 5. Retention time of the methane phase was 72 h and the pH was not adjusted during the study. Samples from gas collection systems were analyzed for methane and carbon dioxide composition. Samples from effluent lines of the acid and methane phases were analyzed for suspended solids, volatile solids, volatile acids and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) concentrations. It was found that a 24 h retention time of the acid phase at pH 5 was the most effective treatment of whey for producing methane and reducing the pollutional load of the final effluent in the methane phase. This set of experimental conditions produced the largest amount of short chain volatile acids in the acid phase, creating a desirable substrate for the methane phase and for the methane generating microorganisms. The effluent from ...
T-Matrix De-Embedding of IC Metal Transmission Lines to 18 GHz

T-matrix methods are applied to S-parameter data from on-chip metal lines connected to microwave measurement equipment so as to preserve mirror symmetry in the entire system. The propagation constant ? and characteristic impedance Zin of a line are derived from measurements on two different lengths of line. It is shown here that Zin can be found with few assumptions about the transition networks. In particular, we present a theorem for determining Zin or its phase for any symmetric or lossless transition network. Multiple lengths of otherwise identical IC line allow redundant, pairwise solutions to be acquired, with high confidence in the final result. Experimental results show that today's IC metal lines at Intel can have flat R, L, G, and C to at least 18 Ghz.
Neuropeptide Y in the arcuate nucleus is modulated by alterations in glucose utilization

Abstract This study examined the response of hypothalamic neuropeptide Y (NPY) to specific metabolic challenges. After intraperitoneal administration of 2-deoxy- d -glucose, which blocks glucose utilization, NPY levels measured via radioimmunoassay were significantly potentiated in the arcuate (ARC) and suprachiasmatic nuclei of the rat hypothalamus. The antimetabolite mercaptoacetate, in contrast, which blocks fatty acid oxidation, produced no significant change and actually tended to reduce NPY levels in the ARC. It is concluded that glucose utilization, in particular, may constitute an important signal, either direct or indirect, in the modulation of NPY production in the hypothalamus.
Endometrial ablation for the treatment of menorrhagia: A comparison of patients with normal, enlarged, and fibroid uteri

One hundred sixty-one patients underwent endometrial ablation with the Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of refractory menorrhagia. Patients were divided into one of three groups: those with a normal-sized uterus; those with an enlarged uterus (greater than 10 cm); and those with uterine fibroids, which had been documented clinically, ultrasonographically, or by a combination of hysteroscopy and laparoscopy or by one or the other. All patients were considered candidates for hysterectomy. Both preoperatively and postoperatively, patients monitored their menstrual cycles and evaluated their flow according to predetermined categories of amenorrhea, light flow, normal flow, heavy flow, and severe flow. After treatment, 68% of patients with normal-sized uterus and 91% of patients with an enlarged uterus (greater than 10 cm) and 88% of patients with uterine fibroids became amenorrheic or had light flow. None of the patients in this last group have had to undergo hysterectomy. This study indicates that the patient with an enlarged or fibroid uterus may not have contraindications for endometrial ablation. Endometrial ablation may be effective in at least temporarily controlling bleeding in those patients with enlarged or myomatous uterus.
A Comprehensive Evaluation of Statistics Pattern Analysis Based Process Monitoring

Abstract Statistics pattern analysis (SPA) is a new multivariate statistical monitoring framework proposed by the authors recently. It addresses some challenges that cannot be readily addressed by the commonly used multivariate statistical methods such as principal component analysis (PCA) in monitoring batch processes in the semiconductor industry. It was later extended to the monitoring of continuous processes using a moving window based approach. In this work, we perform a comprehensive comparison of SPA with representative linear and nonlinear multivariate process monitoring methods. The superior performance of SPA is demonstrated using the challenging Tennessee Eastman process (TEP).
Integrating Enhance and NACO Work into Pre-Professional Experiences: A Successful Strategy for All

In a time where both library budgets and personnel are shrinking, pre-professionals can contribute and improve cataloging in the OCLC WorldCat database, provided they are well trained and supervised. Thus their contributions benefit everyone, not just local catalog users. They may also be fully integrated into the OCLC Regular Enhance program and the Program for Cooperative Cataloging (PCC) Name Authority Cooperative Program (NACO) workflows. This article focuses on how pre-professionals are managed in technical services at Kent State University Libraries. The article includes contributions from the perspective of management, expert cataloger-trainers, and a graduate student, and aims to provide professional catalogers with the tools to successfully establish programs for pre-professionals.
Patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants: a review of current management

Problems related to the ductus arteriosus confront the pediatrician more than any other isolated cardiac defect. Due to increased awareness of the problems of prematurity, the reported frequency of patent ductus arteriosus increased threefold between 1970 and 1975. Aggressive therapy directed toward closure of the ductus is indicated within the first week of life in the very immature infant. Pharmacologic closure of the PDA with indomethacin is effective about half the time.
The use of simulated speech profiles and the Prof technique in capturing the policies of speech raters

This paper describes research procedures designed to answer the question: What speech performance categories are actually used by speech raters as they arrive at judgments about speeches? The results indicate that forty‐four speech raters produced fifteen different speech rating policies or a different speech evaluation strategy for about every three raters. In addition, eighteen raters used basically one speech performance category in determining their overall speech evaluations.
The oncology nurse's role in cancer risk assessment and counseling.

Objective: To provide a comprehensive overview of the role of the oncology nurse in cancer risk assessment and counseling. Data sources: Review articles, research studies, and book chapters. Conclusions: New genetic discoveries are changing how risk for some cancers is being determined and managed. Cancer risk counseling and genetic testing are emerging components of clinical care. Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses will have an increasingly important role in casefinding, risk assessment, education, counseling, psychosocial support, health advocacy, and the coordination of services and referrals for cancer risk management. In addition, nurses can conduct research on the effects of these new genetic applications on individuals and families, and educate others about the implications of this evolving field.
Global Information Management Research: What have we Learned in the Past Decade?

This study assesses the past decade in the GIM domain, based on Journal of Global Information Management JGIM research findings. Based on the issues addressed by these articles, the authors develop 11 topical categories and discuss each in terms of the accumulation of knowledge contributed by these findings. The authors also discuss for each topic possible extension and further understanding based on related research in international business. In consideration of the topics of these articles, a large number simultaneously addressing multiple topics and potential of explicitly linking these topics in future research are discussed. Additionally, the authors update prior quantitative analysis considering JGIM citations of key international business scholars, evolution of research methods, and levels of scope and analysis in these articles. Finally, the authors indicate gaps in the body of research within categories, when categories are considered in relationships, and when looking further from the perspective of recent IB research.
Distribution of kurtoses, with estimators and tests of homogeneity of kurtosis

Abstract The asymptotic distribution of marginal sample kurtoses is derived. The distribution is used to derive new estimators of the kurtosis parameter κ of a p-variate elliptical distribution as well as tests for homogeneity of kurtosis.
Combined Merkel Cell Carcinoma and Atypical Fibroxanthoma

Although there are reports of squamous cell carcinoma arising within and adjacent to Merkel cell carcinoma, and one report of an atypical fibroxanthoma-like tumor arising in an irradiated recurrent Merkel cell carcinoma, there have previously been no reports of an immunohistochemically verified atypical fibroxanthoma occurring in conjunction with a Merkel cell carcinoma. We report on a neoplasm with distinct features of both Merkel cell carcinoma and atypical fibroxanthoma. Histologic and immunohistochemical evaluations were performed. Our results verify the finding of a combined Merkel cell carcinoma and atypical fibroxanthoma. This case is an interesting and unusual combination of tumors. The origin of the Merkel cell carcinoma is revisited. Debated origins include neuroendocrine, epithelial, and pleuripotent stem cell.
Overweight and obesity predict time to periodontal disease progression in men

Aims To examine whether overweight and obesity indicators – body mass index, waist circumference, and waist circumference-to-height ratio – predict progression of periodontal disease in men.
INR negative resist: a negative-tone I-line chemically amplified photoresist

INR, an I-line negative photoresist, is described. Acid catalyzed cross-linking of phenolic resins using a non-metallic photoacid generator, 2,6-bishydroxymethyl-p-cresol as a cross- linker, and 9-anthracene methanol as an I-line sensitizer results in a very high photospeed aqueous TMAH developable photoresist. Poly(p-hydroxystyrene) was found to have advantages over novolac resins for formulation of high performance negative I-line photoresist. Advantages obtained by using PHS rather than novolac include higher thermal stability, elimination of undercut on nuleophilic surfaces and compatibility with 2.38 percent TMAH puddle develop processes. A high resolution version, INR-X, is described. Resolution to 0.30 micrometers and linearity to 0.35 micrometers was obtained using a 0.54NA ASML I-line stepper. 0.35 micrometers line-spaces arrays had 1.2 micrometers depth of focus and 0.40 micrometers line-space arrays had a depth of focus greater than 1.6 micrometers . An unusual characteristic found in INR-X is a very low sensitivity to variation in PEB temperature. A 3nm/ degree(s)C line-width dependency was found.
Sound change: A phonemic split in a misarticulating child

The purpose of this paper is to report a clinically induced phonemic split (i.e., the restructuring of allophones as distinct phonemes) by presenting longitudinal data from a functionally misarticulating child. For this child, three qualitatively and quantitatively distinct stages were observed relative to the acquisition of the phonemic split: 1. complementary distribution (allophones of the same phoneme); 2. position-specific free variation (intermediate to a phonemic split); and 3. phonemic distinction for some, but not all morphemes (phonemic split). The results of this clinical case study, documenting the nature and development of a phonemic split, have implications for related phenomena in normal language acquisition, second-language learning, and sound change in primary languages.
Response of guyed offshore towers to stochastic loads: Time domain vs frequency domain

Abstract The validity of the widely used stochastic linearization method for analysing the response of guyed towers to stochastic loads is investigated. The governing equation of a guyed tower has two sources of nonlinearities: fluid-structure interaction and the restoring force of the cables. In this study, a linearized single degree of freedom model of a guyed tower is developed using stochastic linearization approach. It is solved in the frequency domain, giving the statistical response of the guyed tower. The results are compared to the response statistics of a time simulation that fully incorporates the nonlinearities of the cable system and the fluid-structure interaction. It is found that the results from the linearized model agree reasonably well with the results from the time simulation of the fully nonlinear system. The computer time using the stochastic linearization approach is several orders of magnitude less than for a conventional time simulation method. It is therefore justifiable to use this method in the early design stages of guyed towers.
Paget's disease of the nipple

Abstract 1. 1. Paget's disease is a malignant disease from its onset even when there is only an isolated involvement of the nipple, the disease having the potentialities of any other malignant tumor. It starts at the junction of the lactiferous duct with the epidermis and spreads toward the skin and into the duct system. A deep seated scirrhous carcinoma is part and parcel of the same disease. 2. 2. A specimen for biopsy should be obtained in all doubtful cases. The characteristic intra-epithelial Paget cells in the epidermis and in the ducts and the characteristic subepithelial inflammatory reaction are diagnostic. 3. 3. Local treatment to the nipple is useless. Radical mastectomy offers the best opportunity for cure.
J/ψ's are jazzy

Abstract I discuss some of my early adventures in the study of J / ψ production and suppression at Stony Brook and some of the things I've learned since then. My recent focus has been on quarkonium production in proton–proton ( pp ) collisions and cold nuclear matter effects in proton/deuteron–nucleus ( pA , d A ) collisions.
Isolation and Characterization of Monoclonal Antibodies Monospecific for Bovine α-Casein and β-Casein

Abstract Two monoclonal antibodies monospecific for bovine α s1 -casein, which recognize three genetic variants of α s1 -casein, have been isolated and their binding properties characterized. Antibodies 57-115 and 57-310 recognize different antigenic determinants on the α s1 protein with affinity constants of 1.63 x 10 11 and 2.13 x 10 11 M –1 , respectively. Five monoclonal antibodies, 58-409, 58-416, 58-488, 58-504, and 58-557, monospecific for bovine β-casein with affinity constants >10 9 M –1 , which recognize a similar epitope(s) also were isolated. All seven antibodies are of isotype IgG 1 and recognize both the denatured and undenatured forms of their antigen, making them suitable for qualitative and quantitative radioimmunoassay.
Lower Bound on Neutrino Masses in Left-Right Electroweak Gauge Models

Although Dirac neutrino masses are generally not calculable in SU(2)L×SU(2)R×U(1) electroweak gauge models, they can be bounded from below under certain naturalness assumptions. The generic result is , where ζ and m1, m2 are the mixing angle and mass eigenvalues of WL, WR.
Good-Bye to the “Third World”

The term “Third World” has long been used to refer collectively to all the poorer countries of the world. While it suggests poverty, it also evokes countries “on the move”—politically and economically—and, above all, in solidarity with one another, pursuing a common political agenda, one that demands attention—and resources—from the richer countries of the world. This shorthand for poor countries, however, is now misleading. It is dated and has lost all of its conceptual usefulness.
Economics of devices

Abstract Background . The economics of devices used for mechanical circulatory support not only involve the patient, the provider, and society as a whole, but also, importantly, the developers and manufacturers of these new technologies. The combined effects of years of development and testing with significant regulatory, reimbursement, and acceptance barriers make this a capital-intensive and high-risk endeavor. In addition, long-term circulatory support is, today, essentially limited to bridge to transplantation, a "market" of only $100 million. Competition is increasing, with new devices under development and entering clinical trials. Conclusions . Economic health for this new industry is dependent on expanding clinical indications to definitive or destination therapy, and perhaps other applications such as bridge to recovery and assisted medical therapies.
The ethics of health service delivery: a challenge to public health leadership.

The ethical distribution of health care is a central issue now that AIDS has started to be a drain on health care resources. If the worst predictions are true the next half century will be capitalized by a great stress of the health care delivery system in the Pacific. The critical challenges that face the current leadership are: sustaining commitment to all levels of administration to reduce social and health inequities; making sound decisions on policies priorities and goals that are based on valid information; strengthen health infrastructure based on the principle of primary health care including appropriate distribution of staffing skills technology and resources. The goals of the Pacific Health Promotion and Development center must not focus exclusively on AIDs. Hepatitis B control measures hypertension and diabetes primary care in remote areas and rehabilitation initiatives must be kept in place. Humanitarian interests for AIDs patients must be balanced with the pragmatic reality of saving childrens hearing or extending useful lives. The attributes of respect accountability leadership judgement fairness integrity and honesty controlled by principles of social justice must be part of the administrative decision making process. The 2 major issues facing public health professional are: (1) the financial considerations involved with increasingly expensive technology services and research contrasted against the need to prioritize their use and development; (2) pragmatic and ideological needs must be balanced to maximize preventative and curative services and make them available to those who can benefit from them.
Calmodulin, conformational states, and calcium signaling. A single-molecule perspective.

Single-molecule fluorescence measurements can provide a new perspective on the conformations, dynamics, and interactions of proteins. Recent examples are described illustrating the application of single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy to calcium signaling proteins with an emphasis on the new information available in single-molecule fluorescence burst measurements, resonance energy transfer, and polarization modulation methods. Calcium signaling pathways are crucial in many cellular processes. The calcium binding protein calmodulin (CaM) serves as a molecular switch to regulate a network of calcium signaling pathways. Single-molecule spectroscopic methods can yield insights into conformations and dynamics of CaM and CaM-regulated proteins. Examples include studies of the conformations and dynamics of CaM, binding of target peptides, and interaction with the plasma-membrane Ca2+ pump. Single-molecule resonance energy transfer measurements revealed conformational substates of CaM, and single-molecule pola...
Effect of N2 contamination on drift chambers in magnetic fields

Abstract Since the presence of a small amount of air is unavoidable in large drift detectors, we present a measurement of the effect of N 2 contamination on the electron drift velocity in a working L3 Muon Chamber placed in the MIT cyclotron magnet. The nominal gas mixture [Ar:CO 2 :iC 4 H 10 (86:10:4)] was varied by including as much as 1% N 2 . Results at B = 0 and 0.5 T are shown. Shifts in the drift velocity curves indicate the need for a higher electric field to maintain operational accuracy.
Pressure broadening by argon in the hyperfine resolved P(10) and P(70) (17,1) transitions of I2 X1Σ(0g+)→B3Π(0u+) using sub-Doppler laser saturation spectroscopy

Abstract The dependence of pressure broadening upon hyperfine component in the P(10) and P(70) lines of the (17,1) band of the I2 X1Σ(0g+)→B3Π(0u+) has been studied using laser saturation spectroscopy. By limiting absorption to the zero velocity group, Doppler broadening is removed, lineshapes with widths (FWHM)
Gout epidemiology: results from the UK General Practice Research Database, 1990-1999.

Objective: To examine the epidemiology of gout and gout treatment in the United Kingdom using a large national practice based population. Methods: Data from the UK General Practice Research Database from 1990 to 1999 were examined. Physician diagnoses and drug codes were used, and trends in gout incidence and treatment examined. Additionally, disease prevalence for the year 1999 was assessed. To examine the association of gout with comorbid disease, the prevalence of select health conditions and drug use was compared with the corresponding prevalences seen in osteoarthritis, adjusting for both age and sex. Results: From 1 January 1990 to 31 December 1999 overall gout incidence remained relatively stable, ranging from a low of 11.9 cases (95% confidence interval (CI) 11.5 to 12.3) in 1991 to a high of 18.0 cases (95% CI 17.6 to 18.4) per 10 000 patient-years in 1994. Gout prevalence in 1999 was 1.4% with rates approaching 7% in men over the age of 65. Drugs used for the treatment of gout remained constant in prevalent cases with the exception of a significant decline in non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use over the 10 year follow up. Compared with patients with osteoarthritis, patients with gout were significantly more likely to have cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic renal failure, and were more likely to have used diuretics or ciclosporin, or both. Conclusion: Although gout is common in the UK, particularly among older men, the incidence of the disease seems to have remained stable during the 1990s.
Monitoring the sizes of denatured ensembles of staphylococcal nuclease proteins: implications regarding m values, intermediates, and thermodynamics.

Fluorescence and size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) are used to monitor urea denaturation of wild-type staphylococcal nuclease (SN) as well as the m+ and m− mutants A69T and V66W, respectively. It...
Mapping of crystal defects and the minority carrier diffusion length in 6H–SiC using a novel electron beam induced current technique

We report on a mapping technique used to correlate the structure of defects with their electrical characteristics in semiconductors. Interesting results that directly and clearly show the influence of micropipes on the minority carrier diffusion length were obtained in both p- and n-type 6H–SiC. The method is based on electron-beam induced current (EBIC) measurements in planar structures. Values of hole diffusion length in defect free regions of n-type 6H–SiC, with a doping concentration of 1.7×1017 cm−3, ranged from 1.46 to 0.68 μm. These values were reduced to below 0.1 μm at the center of large defects. In addition, measurements on p-type 6H–SiC resulted in electron diffusion lengths ranging from 1.42 to 0.8 μm which also showed drastic reductions near defects. Our planar mapping technique measures diffusion lengths along a linescan. This linear map is then overlaid onto the EBIC image, allowing direct visualization of defects and their effect on minority carrier diffusion lengths.
Cell cycle differences in DNA damage-induced BRCA1 phosphorylation affect its subcellular localization

Phosphorylation of BRCA1 tumor suppressor protein is regulated during the cell cycle and in response to DNA damage. Several Ser/Thr kinases have been implicated in BRCA1 phosphorylation, including ATM/ATR, cdk2, and hChk2 kinases. In this study, phospho-Ser-specific antibodies recognizing Ser-988, -1423, -1497, and -1524 residues of BRCA1 were employed to study BRCA1 phosphorylation during the S and G2/M phases under conditions of DNA damage. We observed that IR (ionizing radiation) treatment induced phosphorylation of Ser-988/Ser-1524 during the S phase and of Ser-988/Ser-1423 during the G2/M phase. UV treatment induced phosphorylation of Ser-988 during the S phase and of Ser-1423 during the G2/M phase. Phosphorylation of serines 1423 and -1524 was not induced in HCC1937 breast cancer cells, which contain mutant BRCA1 protein. Confocal microscopy revealed that unphosphorylated BRCA1 localizes on chromosomes from metaphase through telophase, whereas Ser-988-phosphorylated BRCA1 resides in the inner chromosomal structure, centrosome, and the cleavage furrow during prophase through telophase. We also found that Ser-988-phosphorylated BRCA1 relocalizes to the perinuclear region when cells are subjected to IR or UV radiation in the S phase. These results reinforce a model wherein phosphorylation of specific residues of BRCA1 after DNA damage affects its localization and function.
Closing the hominid gap

Origins Reconsidered: In Search of What Makes Us Human. By Richard Leakey and Roger Lewin. Doubleday/Little, Brown: 1992. Pp. 375. $25, £18.99.
Comparison of DNA and Carbon and Nitrogen Stable Isotope-based Techniques for Identification of Prior Vertebrate Hosts of Ticks.

Identification of the vertebrate hosts upon which hematophagous arthropods feed provides key information for understanding the ecology and transmission of vector-borne diseases. Bloodmeal analysis of ticks presents unique challenges relative to other vectors, given the long interval between bloodmeal acquisition and host-seeking, during which DNA degradation occurs. This study evaluates DNA-based and stable isotope-based bloodmeal analysis methodologies for the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (Linneaus, 1758), in an experimental study with chicken as the known host. We subjected ticks of different ages and environmental rearing conditions to three DNA-based approaches and a stable isotopic analysis, which relies on the natural variation of nitrogen ((15)N/(14)N) and carbon ((13)C/(12)C) isotopes. While all three DNA-based approaches were successful in identifying the bloodmeal host of the engorged nymphs, only the probe-based RT-PCR was able to detect host DNA in aged ticks, the success of which was low and inconsistent across age and rearing treatments. In contrast, the stable isotope analysis showed utility in determining the host across all ages of ticks when isotopic values of ticks were compared with a panel of candidate vertebrate species. There was a positive shift in both δ(13)C and δ(15)N in adult A. americanum until 34 wk postnymphal bloodmeal. Through analyzing the isotopic signatures of eight potential vertebrate host species, we determined that the magnitude of this isotopic shift that occurred with tick age was minor compared with the heterogeneity in the δ(15)N and δ(13)C signatures among species. These results suggest that stable isotopes are a useful tool for understanding tick-host interactions.
Statistical sampling to characterize recent United States land-cover change

Abstract The U.S. Geological Survey, in conjunction with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is conducting a study focused on developing methods for estimating changes in land-cover and landscape pattern for the conterminous United States from 1973 to 2000. Eleven land-cover and land-use classes are interpreted from Landsat imagery for five sampling dates. Because of the high cost and potential effect of classification error associated with developing change estimates from wall-to-wall land-cover maps, a probability sampling approach is employed. The basic sampling unit is a 20×20 km area, and land cover is obtained for each 60×60 m pixel within the sampling unit. The sampling design is stratified based on ecoregions, and land-cover change estimates are constructed for each stratum. The sampling design and analyses are documented, and estimates of change accompanied by standard errors are presented to demonstrate the methodology. Analyses of the completed strata suggest that the sampling unit should be reduced to a 10×10 km block, and poststratified estimation and regression estimation are viable options to improve precision of estimated change.
Survey of various statistical process control methods

The author discusses the various statistical process control (SPC) techniques currently being used by different industries. He also introduces a few nonconventional SPC charts which were published recently and could be used for better results. He also describes the Motorola method of performing characterization of processes. >
Swelling-Activated Chloride Current Is Persistently Activated in Ventricular Myocytes From Dogs With Tachycardia-Induced Congestive Heart Failure

Abstract—The hypothesis that cellular hypertrophy in congestive heart failure (CHF) modulates mechanosensitive (ie, swelling- or stretch-activated) anion channels was tested. Digital video microscopy and amphotericin-perforated-patch voltage clamp were used to measure cell volume and ion currents in ventricular myocytes isolated from normal dogs and dogs with rapid ventricular pacing-induced CHF. In normal myocytes, osmotic swelling in 0.9T to 0.6T solution (T, relative osmolarity; isosmotic solution, 296 mOsmol/L) was required to elicit ICl,swell, an outwardly rectifying swelling-activated Cl– current that reversed near –33 mV and was inhibited by 1 mmol/L 9-anthracene carboxylic acid (9AC), an anion channel blocker. Block of ICl,swell by 9AC simultaneously increased the volume of normal cells in hyposmotic solutions by up to 7%, but 9AC had no effect on volume in isosmotic or hyperosmotic solutions. In contrast, ICl,swell was persistently activated under isosmotic conditions in CHF myocytes, and 9AC inc...
Siblings of individuals with Smith-Magenis syndrome: an investigation of the correlates of positive and negative behavioural traits.

Background Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects approximately one out of 25 000 births worldwide. To date, no research has been conducted to investigate how having an individual with SMS in a family is a positive or negative influence on siblings. Methods To investigate this question we conducted a study involving 79 siblings and 60 parents of individuals with SMS to assess perceptions of how having a sibling with SMS positively and negative influence siblings' behavioural traits. Results Our findings show that age of siblings of individuals with SMS was associated with a significant increase in positive behavioural traits and a significant decrease in negative behavioural traits. Additionally, siblings who perceive benefits from having a sibling with SMS demonstrate significantly more positive behavioural traits and significantly fewer negative behavioural traits. Parents accurately assess the changes in sibling behavioural traits with age, and parents who perceive their child as having experienced benefits from the sibling relationship report that siblings demonstrate significantly more positive behavioural traits and significantly fewer negative behavioural traits. Conclusions Our research shows that although individuals experience difficulties as a result of having a sibling with SMS, overall, siblings tend to fare well and parents appreciate both the positive and negative behavioural effects that result from having a sibling with SMS.
A method for determining electrophoretic and electroosmotic mobilities using AC and DC electric field particle displacements

We have developed a method for measuring the electrophoretic mobility of submicrometer, fluorescently labeled particles and the electroosmotic mobility of a microchannel. We derive explicit expressions for the unknown electrophoretic and the electroosmotic mobilities as a function of particle displacements resulting from alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) applied electric fields. Images of particle displacements are captured using an epifluorescent microscope and a CCD camera. A custom image-processing code was developed to determine image streak lengths associated with AC measurements, and a custom particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) code was devised to determine DC particle displacements. Statistical analysis was applied to relate mobility estimates to measured particle displacement distributions.
Ten Estate Planning Advantages of Limited Liability Companies

In the eight years since the Service blessed the Wyoming limited liability company (LLC) statute, there has been an explosion of interest in LLCs, which are now available in 48 states and the District of Columbia (with Hawaii and Vermont the lone holdouts). See Bruce P. Ely, "The LLC Scoreboard," Tax Notes, Dec. 25, 1995, p. 1661. Although much has been written of the uses of LLCs in tax and business planning, comparatively little commentary has focused on the role of LLCs in estate planning. The LLC treatises generally devote little attention to estate planning issues, and there have only been a few estate planning articles that discuss the advantages of LLCs compared to S corporations, limited partnerships, and trusts. (A listing of these treatises and articles appears at the end of this article.) After a brief introduction, this article discusses 10 estate planning advantages of LLCs compared to the other forms of organization.