cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Total serum IgE and its association with asthma symptoms and allergic sensitization among children

Abstract Background: Asthma and wheezing during childhood are associated with elevated total serum IgE and with allergic sensitization to local aeroallergens. However, little is known about the longitudinal relationship between total serum IgE and the development of wheezing and allergic sensitization during childhood. Objective: The purpose of our investigation was to determine the relationship between total serum IgE and the development of wheezing and allergic sensitization in childhood. Methods: Our study subjects were participants in the Tucson Children's Respiratory Study who underwent an IgE measurement in at least 1 of 3 surveys (at years 1, 6, and 11) and complete allergy skin tests during the latter 2 surveys. The children's phenotypes were categorized on the basis of skin test response (never, early, and late) and wheezing status (never, early, late, and persistent). Repeated-measures analyses were used, allowing subjects to be included who had unequal numbers of IgE observations (a total of 263 boys and 277 girls). Results: We found that total serum IgE levels track with age: subjects with high serum IgE levels less than 1 year old continued to have high IgE levels at ages 6 and 11 years. Both persistent wheezing and early sensitization were associated with high serum IgE levels at all ages. Boys who had late or persistent wheezing or who were sensitized early or late had high serum IgE levels as early as age 9 months, whereas only girls with persistent wheezing and early sensitization had elevated IgE levels at that age. Children who wheezed only in the first years of life and not after (ie, those with early wheezing) had serum IgE levels that were not different from those of nonwheezing children. Conclusion: On the basis of these findings we conclude that although total serum IgE tracks with age, children who are predisposed to persistent wheezing and early sensitization to local aeroallergens already have high levels of IgE at age 9 months. This suggests that the predisposition to respond to environmental stimuli through high levels of IgE precede early allergic sensitization, indicating that there may be a common defect in the development of the immune system involving IgE production and early allergic sensitization. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;104:28-36.)
Prediction of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions in iso-octane HCCI engine combustion using multizone simulations

Homogeneous charge compression ignitions (HCCI) engines show promise as an alternative to Diesel engines, yet research remains: development of practical HCCI engines will be aided greatly by accurate modeling tools. A novel detailed chemical kinetic model that incorporates information from a computational fluid mechanics code has been developed to simulate HCCI combustion. This model very accurately predicts many aspects of the HCCI combustion process. High-resolution computational grids can be used for the fluid mechanics portion of the simulation, but the chemical kinetics portion of the simulation can be reduced to a handful of computational zones. (For all previous work, 10 zones have been used.) While, overall, this model has demonstrated a very good predictive capability for HCCI combustion, previous simulations using this model have tended to underpredict carbon monoxide emissions by an order of magnitude. A factor in the underprediction of carbon monoxide may be that all previous simulations have been conducted with 10 chemical kinetic zones. The chemistry that results in carbon monoxide emissions is very sensitive to small changes in temperature within the engine. The resolution in temperature is determined directly by the number of zones. This paper investigates how the number of zones (i.e., temperature resolution) affects the model's prediction of hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions in an HCCI engine. Simulations with 10, 20, and 40 chemical kinetic zones have been conducted using a detailed chemical kinetic mechanism (859 species, 3606 reactions) to simulate an iso-octane-fueled HCCI engine. The results show that 10 zones are adequate to resolve the hydrocarbon emissions, but a greater number of zones is required to resolve carbon monoxide emissions. Results are also presented that explore spatial sources of the exhaust emissions within the HCCI engine combustion chamber.
Aerodynamic control of a semi-span wing with a divergent trailing edge using synthetic jets

of coupling synthetic jet actuators with a divergent trailing edge on a swept wing were investigated. An array of seven synthetic jet actuators were embedded into the trailing edge of a modied NACA 652 215 swept wing section with an aspect ratio, AR = 5:3 and chord Reynolds number of Rec = 85; 000. The traditional sharp trailing edge was replaced by a divergent trailing edge with a characteristic scale of 0.03C. Qualitative changes in the ow were observed using smoke wire ow visualization. A two-component, load balance was used to measure the aerodynamic forces on the wing model, and ensemble averaged PIV measurements were taken to quantify the changes in the ow eld near the synthetic jet orice. The combined eect of a divergent trailing edge and synthetic jets produced a signicant increase in lift accompanied by an increase in drag through all angles of attack up to stall. As a consequence of the lift gain, there was an increase in the lift to drag ratio at low angles of attack.
Immune-Based Antitumor Effects of BRAF Inhibitors Rely on Signaling by CD40L and IFNγ

B-Raf(V600E) inhibitors have been suggested to promote tumor regression with the help of host immunity, but this hypothesis has not been examined directly in detail. In this study, we profiled immunologic changes in the tumor microenvironment and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in a B-RafV600E/Pten-driven murine model of melanoma after administration of the B-Raf(V600E) small molecule inhibitor PLX4720. In this model, we found that as tumors developed, they gradually acquired immunosuppressive features, including accumulation of regulatory T cells (Treg) and CD11b(+)/Gr-1(+) myeloid cells and loss of Th1 effector functions on CD4(+) TILs, such as CD40L and IFNγ expression. PLX4720 administration promoted development of a more immune stimulatory microenvironment associated with a relative increase in CD40L and IFNγ expression on intratumoral CD4(+) TILs and a reduced accumulation of Tregs and CD11b(+)/Gr-1(+) myeloid cells. Strikingly, CD40L or IFNγ blockade compromised the ability of PLX4720 to inhibit melanoma growth. Supporting this result, agonistic CD40 antibody was sufficient to evoke antitumor immunity and suppress tumor growth in tumor-bearing mice. Taken together, our results establish the critical role of immune-related changes, with key contributions for CD40L and IFNγ signaling in the antitumor responses triggered in vivo by B-Raf(V600E) inhibitors.
PReS13-SPK-1592: Pediatric aspects of antiphospholipid syndrome

The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is a multisystemic autoimmune disease characterized by thromboembolic events, pregnancy morbidity, hematologic, dermatologic, neurologic and other manifestations in the presence of elevated titers of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). In recent years, APS has been increasingly recognized in various pediatric autoimmune and nonautoimmune diseases, but the relatively low prevalence and heterogeneity of APS in childhood made it very difficult to study in a systematic way.
A rejoinder: Is all social exchange marketing? A reply

Our article, “Is All Social Exchange Marketing?”, was a reaction to the works of several authors, only one of which was an article by Richard Bagozzi, “Marketing as Exchange” (1975). This article is a reaction specifically to Bagozzi's “Is All Social Exchange Marketing?: A Reply” (1977). Neither this article nor our earlier one is a development of a theory or a framework for the construction of marketing theory. Thus there were no developments of premises, propositions or formated statements of relationships in that article or this one which might be miscontrued to be a perspective, framework, or theory of marketing. First, we challenge Bagozzi to develop a unique theory of marketing exchange as differentiated from more general concepts of all social, psychological and economic exchanges. Then we defend the purpose and logic of our article against Bagozzi's fallacious assertions relating to our fallacies of logic and misinterpretations of his works, and we point out his inconsistencies and fallacies of logic.
INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE AND THE EVALUATION OF CONTROL STRATEGIES FOR AN INSECT POPULATION

The development of physiological resistance in insect populations of agricultural and public health importance to insecticides and other methods of control has taken on proportions of increasing importance. In this paper, a mathematical pest population model is presented which can be used for dynamic economic and ecological evaluation of alternative control strategies. Because of the unique nature of pest populations, the model is not directly applicable to all actual problems. However, the model is an illustration of a whole class of models that promises to remove pest control strategies from the category of ad hoc decisions.For those empirical problems for which a benefit function can be defined, dynamic programming is suggested as a method for determining an optimal strategy over time. When it is difficult or impossible to specify a benefit function, which is frequently the case, it is suggested that Monte Carlo techniques, applied to the pest control strategies of interest, be used to determine the effects on the pest population over time.
On selfdecomposable Stieltjes transforms

Abstract We investigate the selfdecomposability of a convex hull, or mixture, of exponential laws. Let the support of the mixing distribution be contained in an interval [ m , M ] . If 0 m M ∞ , the mixture is semi-selfdecomposable If M ≤ H m , for some absolute constant H ≈ 8 , then the mixture is selfdecomposable.
Quality-of-life results of double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of mesalamine in patients with Crohn's disease

Seven quality-of-life parameters were assessed in a trial of mesalamine in Crohn's disease. The results with regard to efficacy and safety have been previously published. A total of 310 patients were enrolled in this double-blind, parallel trial and randomized to receive placebo, or 1, 2, or 4 g/day of mesalamine in controlled-release capsules for 16 weeks. Results revealed that mesalamine at the dose of 4 g/day resulted in significant (P<0.03) improvements from baseline in all quality-of-life parameters. A significant (P<0.02) linear trend between increasing doses of mesalamine and increasing response was also noted. The 1- and 2-g/day doses of mesalamine also resulted in an improvement in quality of life, however, with the exception of 2 g/day of mesalamine on the hobby and recreational activities parameter, these changes were not significantly different from placebo.
Emotions and Morality: The View from Classical Antiquity

This paper shows the close relationship between morality and emotions, as emotions were defined and understood by classical Greek and Roman philosophers (specifically, Aristotle and the Roman Stoic Seneca). Particular attention is paid to the nature of anger, and also to the distinction between full-fledged emotions, which depend on rational judgments and which, accordingly, only human beings are capable of experiencing, and what the Stoics called “pre-emotions,” which were common to human beings and other animals.
OH-Stretch Vibrational Spectroscopy of Hydroxymethyl Hydroperoxide

We report measurement and analysis of the photodissociation spectrum of hydroxymethyl hydroperoxide (HOCH2OOH) and its partially deuterated analogue, HOCD2OOH, in the OH-stretching region. Spectra are obtained by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in the 1νOH and 2νOH regions, and by laser induced fluorescence detection of the OH fragment produced from dissociation of HOCH2OOH initiated by excitation of the 4νOH and 5νOH overtone regions (action spectroscopy). A one-dimensional local-mode model of each OH chromophore is used with ab initio calculated OH-stretching potential energy and dipole moment curves at the coupled-cluster level of theory. Major features in the observed absorption and photodissociation spectra are explained by our local-mode model. In the 4νOH region, explanation of the photodissocation spectrum requires a nonuniform quantum yield, which is estimated by assuming statistical energy distribution in the excited state. Based on the estimated dissociation threshold, overtone photodis...
Mediastinal computed tomography in myasthenia gravis

Thirty-six of 119 patients with myasthenia gravis examined by computed tomography for possible thymic mass had a thymectomy. The computed tomographic findings were compared to the findings of chest x-ray and linear tomography and then correlated with the surgical histopathologic results. Computed tomography detected all cases of thymoma or thymic enlargement due to hyperplasia. Chest x-ray correctly demonstrated 50% of thymomas present while linear tomography demonstrated 88%. Computed tomography was not able to distinguish between enlargement due to thymoma or hyperplasia unless calcification was present. The role of computed tomography is detailed and discussed in relationship to the other diagnostic modalities.
Intraoperative total serum calcium levels, unlike intraoperative intact PTH levels, do not correlate with cure of hyperparathyroidism.

Abstract Background Intraoperative intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) monitoring is useful in the operative management of hyperparathyroidism. Recent studies suggest that measurement of intraoperative total serum calcium (TSC) levels may be a more cost effective and readily available method of intraoperative guidance during neck dissection than iPTH levels, the gold standard. We compared the accuracy of intraoperative TSC to iPTH in predicting surgical cure during parathyroidectomy. Patients and methods From September 1, 2001 to October 31, 2002, 88 parathyroidectomies were performed. iPTH and TSC were measured at the start of the operation, and at 5 and 10 min after gland removal. Data were compared, and trends were analyzed with respect to removal of abnormal parathyroid tissue as confirmed by pathology. One-way analysis of variance was used to determine if decreases in TSC were significant. Results The mean baseline iPTH level (418 ± 610 pg/ml) dropped by 70% 5 min after removal of the abnormal glands (86 ± 102 pg/ml) and by 85% at 10 min (39 ± 39 pg/ml). The mean baseline TSC level (10.0 ± 0.8 mg/dl) dropped by 4% at 5 min after removal of the abnormal glands (9.6 ± 0.9 mg/dl) and remained at 4% at 10 min (9.6 ± 0.8 mg/dl). iPTH dropped by ≥50% in 73 patients (83%) at 5 min and in 87 patients (99%) at 10 min after gland resection. TSC decreased below baseline at 5 min and remained below baseline at 10 min in only 47 patients (54%). In the remaining patients, intraoperative TSC changes were less predictable and did not respond consistently to resection of abnormal glands. Conclusion The decreases in TSC during parathyroidectomy, if present, are minimal. Unlike iPTH levels, TSC levels do not consistently decrease at 5 and 10 min after gland resection. While attractive in terms of cost and availability, intraoperative TSC levels are not clinically reliable in confirming removal of abnormal parathyroid tissue.
Cancer incidence and survival in patients 65 years of age and older

The impact of cancer on persons 65 years of age and older has been assessed by examining incidence rates and survival rates. For all cancers combined, the incidence rate shown in Table 4 for males 65 and older (2,468.2 per 100,000) is four times the age-adjusted rate for males 45 to 64 years of age (586.7). For elderly females, the incidence rate is twice that for females aged 45 to 64 (1,401.1 versus 609.7). Ratios of incidence rates for older versus younger males are about four to five for cancers of the stomach, colon, rectum, pancreas, and urinary bladder, and for leukemia; about three for cancers of the lung and kidney, and for non-Hodgkin's lymphomas; and 10 for cancer of the prostate. For females, the corresponding ratios are similar to those for males, although a little lower for cancers of the colon, rectum, and urinary bladder, and for leukemia, and a little higher for cancers of the stomach and pancreas. The ratios for breast, uterine cervix, uterine corpus, ovary, and lung are less than two. The relative survival rates for patients 65 and older are for many cancer sites only a few percentage points lower than rates for those 45 to 64 years of age (Table 5), suggesting that patients in this age group fare only a little worse than younger patients in escaping the effects of cancer once it has been diagnosed. Exceptions are cancer of the urinary bladder and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas for both men and women and cancers of the uterine cervix, uterine corpus, ovary, and kidney for women. For these sites, the survival rates for older patients are considerably lower than for their younger counterparts. For female breast cancer patients, there was no difference in the five-year relative survival rate for those 65 and older compared with those 45 to 64.
Regulation of the activity of hepatic phenylalanine hydroxylase

Rat liver phenylalanine hydroxylase catalyzes the tetrahydropterin-dependent oxidation of phenylalanine to tyrosine, according to equation 1. In addition to the naturally-occurring coenzyme, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), certain synthetic analogs of BH4 such as 6-methyltetrahydropterin (6MPH4) have high cofactor activity. (formula; see text) The hydroxylase can be activated by a variety of reversible and irreversible modifications, including those caused by partial proteolysis, by interaction with phospholipids such as lysolecithin, by alkylation of a single sulfhydryl group, by phosphorylation catalyzed by cAMP-dependent protein kinase, and by preincubation with its substrate, phenylalanine. All of these modes of activation greatly increase the hydroxylase activity in the presence of BH4, whereas the activity in the presence of 6MPH4 is increased only slightly. The ratio of hydroxylase activity in the presence of BH4 compared to the activity in the presence of 6MPH4, therefore, is a useful index of the state of activation of the enzyme. Of the various activation mechanisms listed above, only phosphorylation of the enzyme and phenylalanine-activation appear to operate in vivo. The evidence indicates that these two regulatory mechanisms act synergistically. Thus, phosphorylation of the enzyme by cAMP-dependent protein kinase is stimulated by phenylalanine, especially in the presence of BH4, (which by itself inhibits), whereas phosphorylation sensitizes the enzyme to activation by phenylalanine. One of the consequences of these interlocking control mechanisms is to enhance the responsiveness of the activity of the hydroxylase to alterations in tissue levels of phenylalanine. As a result, elevated concentrations of phenylalanine can be rapidly metabolized, thereby protecting the fetal and neonatal brain from possible damage by excess phenylalanine.
Clathrin Assembly Protein AP180 and CALM Differentially Control Axogenesis and Dendrite Outgrowth in Embryonic Hippocampal Neurons

Emerging data suggest that, much like epithelial cells, the polarized growth of neurons requires both the secretory and endocytic pathways. The clathrin assembly proteins AP180 and CALM (clathrin assembly lymphoid myeloid protein) are known to be involved in clathrin-mediated endocytosis, but their roles in mammalian neurons and, in particular, in developmental processes before synaptogenesis are unknown. Here we provide evidence that AP180 and CALM play critical roles in establishing the polarity and controlling the growth of axons and dendrites in embryonic hippocampal neurons. Knockdown of AP180 primarily impairs axonal development, whereas reducing CALM levels results in dendritic dystrophy. Conversely, neurons that overexpress AP180 or CALM generate multiple axons. Ultrastructural analysis shows that CALM affiliates with a wider range of intracellular trafficking organelles than does AP180. Functional analysis shows that endocytosis is reduced in both AP180-deficient and CALM-deficient neurons. Additionally, CALM-deficient neurons show disrupted secretory transport. Our data demonstrate previously unknown functions for AP180 and CALM in intracellular trafficking that are essential in the growth of neurons.
Noxious colorectal distention induced-c-Fos protein in limbic brain structures in the rat.

Colorectal distention is a non-invasive stimulus used to study visceral pain processing in the nervous system. In this study, immunocytochemical labeling for the immediate-early gene, c-Fos, was used to map limbic brain structures involved in processing visceral pain. Rats received noxious colorectal distention while loosely restrained or loose restraint without distention (control). The brains were immunostained and the density of Fos-labeled nuclei within areas of the brain associated with limbic function were examined. Many cortical (cingulate; retrosplenial; insular; perirhinal, entorhinal) and subcortical (periaqueductal gray; locus coeruleus; lateral parabrachial area; paraventricular, anterodorsal and centromedian thalamic nuclei; lateral septal area; dorsomedial hypothalamus; cortical amygdala; subiculum) areas were labeled in the control rats, but significantly more Fos was observed in these areas following noxious colorectal distention (CRD). Additional areas were labeled following CRD but not restraint (e.g. infralimbic and prelimbic cortices; mediodorsal thalamic nucleus; central amygdaloid nucleus). The results show that noxious visceral stimuli result in Fos expression in limbic structures that exceeds that induced by restraint stress, suggesting that different pathways and circuits are recruited by stimuli which can produce similar emotional responses.
Structure, particle size, and annealing of gas phase-condensed Eu 3+ :Y 2 O 3 nanophosphors

Abstract This paper reports the phase distribution and particle size of Eu 3+ :Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles prepared by gas-phase condensation as a function of preparation conditions and annealing. Annealing improves the crystallinity of the as-prepared nanoparticles but also increases the particle size. Gas-phase condensation at a low pressure (10 Torr) produces 5-nm Eu 3+ :Y 2 O 3 in multiple phases. Annealing the 5-nm nanoparticles produces single-phase material in the cubic structure with a doubling of the particle size. Higher chamber pressures produce larger particles. A pressure of 400 Torr produces 13-nm Eu 3+ :Y 2 O 3 in the monoclinic structure. Annealing the 13-nm particles produces a mixture of monoclinic and cubic phase material with a 50% increase in average particle size. We also report preliminary attempts to disperse Eu 3+ :Y 2 O 3 and Eu 2 O 3 nanoparticles in different surfactant and polymer solutions.
Focused ion beam milling and scanning electron microscopy characterization of polymer + metal hybrids

Hybrid materials were prepared by mixing commercial polymers with micrometric metal powders. The polymer matrix used was low density polyethylene (LDPE). We have used aluminum spheres with the average diameter of 1 μm. The particle concentration in the matrix was varied from 0.5 wt.% to 10 wt.%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the particle dispersion on the surfaces of the microhybrids. Focus ion beam (FIB) milling was used to create a transversal cut in the material. SEM imaging was performed before, during and after ion milling to investigate the milling process. The hybrid surfaces are better characterized by backscattered electrons than by the secondary electrons; in the former case a higher contrast difference between the matrix and the dispersed phase allows us to identify the positions of the metal particles inside the matrix. Our SEM+FIB technique combination is useful for hybrids based on polymer matrices. Transversal cross-sections made with the ion beam allowed us to observe the dispersion of the metal particles inside the polymer. Although there can be certain problems during milling, such as heating provoking damage in the material, it is possible to optimize the experimental parameters so as to eliminate the problems. Our microhybrids have a uniform dispersion of the Al powder throughout the material.
54-Year-Old Man With Severe Prostatism, Palatal Mass, and History of Pancreatitis

54-year-old man with a history of benign prostatic hypertrophy, hypothyroidism, and well-controlled insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus secondary to idiopathic pancreatitis presented to our internal medicine consultation clinic. He complained of a lump in the hard palate, dry mouth present for 2 years, and bilateral submandibular gland swelling for which he had been evaluated by an otolaryngologist. A previous biopsy of the hard palate mass had demonstrated florid reactive lymphoid hyperplasia with fibrosis, polyclonal plasmacytosis and increased IgG4-positive plasma cells. He also complained of obstructive urinary symptoms and was found to have a very large and nodular prostate on digital rectal examination. The prostate-specific antigen level was 0.13 ng/mL (reference range, 0-3.2 ng/ mL), and results of urinalysis were unremarkable. A computed tomographic scan of the chest from an outside facility showed a mass in the right middle lobe in addition to bilateral renal lesions. Suspicion for a common link among his current symptoms and previous diagnoses was raised. 1. Which of the following is the most likely unifying diagnosis? a. Multiple myeloma b. Amyloidosis c. Metastatic prostate cancer d. IgG4-related sclerosing disease (IgG4RSD)
Characterization of Renewable Composites

In this study, we demonstrate the usefulness of chemical based method in combination with AFM to characterize a wide range of degradable polymer blends. This approach is based on selective degradation of one of the phase in a multi-phase system and the ability of TMAFM to provide nanoscale lateral information about the different phases in the polymer system. Composite films containing different percentage of hydrolyzable polymer were either melt processed/solution casted and then exposed to a hydrolytic acidic environment and analyzed using TMAFM. Pits were observed to form in the blend films. The progressive hydrolysis of the hydrolyzable component in the composite was studied by FTIR analyses. TMAFM phase imaging was used to follow pit growth of the blend as a function of exposure time. The usefulness of the chemical modification/AFM approach in the characterization of renewable porous material membranes is discussed.
The dynamics of single-mode operation of high-pressure CO2 laser by means of saturable absorbers

Abstract Single-longitudinal-mode operation of a pulsed, high-pressure, transversely excited CO 2 laser by means of a saturable absorber (SF 6 ) has been previously reported. In this communication we report the results of experiments performed to measure the frequencies of single-mode oscillation of the P(14) to P(22) transitions. These frequencies were measured with the use of a scanning Fabry-Perot interferometer and a conventional CO 2 reference oscillator. From these measurements and their correlation with the known frequencies of maximum transmission in the SF 6 absorption spectrum, it is believed that single-longitudinal-mode operation is caused by selective gain discrimination.
Alternative Method for Determining Surface Energy by Utilizing Polymer Thin Film Dewetting

Contact angle and contact mechanics, the most common estimating methods for surface energy, exhibit intrinsic drawbacks when determining surface energy or surface energy variation of micron-scaled areas. In this study, the dewetting of a polymer thin film was explored as a means for surface energy determination. In particular, two empirical plots were generated through modification of silicon wafers with various organosilanes and organosilane mixtures. One plot correlated dewetting velocity of a polystyrene thin film as a function of surface energy for both polar and nonpolar surfaces; the other plot consisted of variation of dewetting hole diameters with surface energy for strictly nonpolar surfaces. The empirical plots were then applied to deduce surface energies of micron-scaled areas of gradient and heterogeneous-patterned surfaces. This approach resulted in reasonable values with less than 1% difference as compared to those expected for perfluorodecyl-1H,1H,2H,2H-trichlorosilane/n-decyltrichlorosilan...
Photosynthetic characteristics of Myriophyllum spicatum and six submersed aquatic macrophyte species native to Lake George, New York

SUMMARY. 1 The macrophyte community of Lake George, New York is diverse, composing of forty-eight submersed species representing a wide range of habitats, depth ranges and life-history strategies. The photosynthetic rates of seven representative submersed aquatic macrophytes were determined in laboratory studies using measurements of short-term changes in oxygen concentration at eight light intensities from 0 to 1000 μmol m−2 s−1 at 20°C. The species examined were: Elodea canadensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Potamogeton amplifolius, P. gramineus, P. praelongus, P. robbinsii, and Vallisneria americana. 2 Comparisons of maximum net photosynthesis, Michaelis–Menten Vmax and Km for photosynthesis versus irradiance, and dark respiration rates correlated with changes in community composition and species distribution with depth. 3 In particular, Myriophyllum spicatum exhibited a high photosynthetic rate (Vmax) and high light requirement (both in compensation point and higher half-saturation constant (Km) indicative of a high light-adapted species. In contrast, the native species exhibited shade-tolerant characteristics. 4 Simple daily carbon balance models indicate that M. spicatum has a higher positive carbon balance near the surface than the native species, but carbon balance decreased more rapidly with decreased light. All species showed greatly reduced carbon balances under a simulated M. spicatum canopy, indicating that native species might not survive. Myriopyllum spicatum leaves would experience self-shading and eventual sloughing.
The Relationship Between Observers' Recorded Teacher Behavior and Evaluation of Music Instruction

Using four teaching evaluation variables selected from the Texas Teacher Appraisal System Teacher Orientation Manual (Texas Education Agency, 1986), 100 music education majors and 100 nonmusic, education majors evaluated a 12-minute videotaped segment of a fifth-grade music class. Each subject was assigned one of four different tasks to be performed during the observation period.Ratings given by nonmusic majors were significantly higher than were ratings given by music majors for the variables Reinforces Correct Responses, Gives Corrective Academic Feedback, and Reinforces Appropriate Behavior. There was no significant difference in evaluation ratings among the four observation task conditions. Only among observers who were directed both to record teacher feedback during the observation and to calculate the total numbers of teacher approvals and disapprovals was there any significant relationship between the teacher behavior recorded and subjects' evaluation ratings. The correlations between teacher behav...
Scientific standards and the design of case-control research

Abstract A new controversy has emerged over the results of a case-control study alleging a causal relationship between certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIAs) and the risks of agranulocytosis and aplastic anemia. After describing the methods and results of the International Agranulocytosis and Aplastic Anemia (IAAA) study, we review the distinctive methodologic challenges of this study and the requirements for avoiding bias, and then reconcile the study results with the principles of case-control design. As a result of our analysis, we believe that the IAAA study's most important and reliable finding is its documentation of the infrequent occurrences of aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis with analgesic use. In contrast, a causal association between NSAIAs and blood dyscrasias has not been suitably established, and may well have resulted from several distinctive sources of bias. These include the effects of diagnostic-suspicion bias in case determination, of exclusion bias in choosing controls, of recall bias in determining exposure, and of publicity bias in both case selection and ascertainment of exposure. These problems could have been avoided and a more valid result obtained with closer attention to the experimental paradigm for case-control research.
Viajantes de saias: escritoras e ideias antiescravistas numa perspectiva transnacional (Brasil, século XIX)

The writers Adele Toussaint-Samson and Nisia Floresta exposed in their literary works their lives of movement in many parts of the Atlantic. They also reflected about their social condition as female authors and travelers. Toussaint-Samson's memoirs of her experience in Brazil and Floresta's treatise on women's education are rich sources for comprehending their worldviews and the transnational circulation of ideas. Their writings are at the core of this article in which I investigate how their experiences as well as their accounts of gender roles and slavery were shaped by comparisons among different societies. They show how they move from Brazil to other parts of the globe to constitute their arguments about Brazilian society. Through their experiences, they articulate a global history. As they viewed Brazil, they engaged in discussions that crossed oceans and circulated in different continents.
Stochastic stability of a gyropendulum under random vertical support excitation

Abstract The mean square stability of a gyropendulum under random vertical support excitation is considered. The intensity and the correlation time of the stochastic excitations are assumed to be small in order to obtain approximate analytical results. The stochastic averaging procedure of Stratonovich and Khasminskii is used to establish the drift and diffusion coefficients in the corresponding Ito equation. Explicit results are obtained for stochastic stability boundaries.
Microporation applications for enhancing drug delivery

Microporation involves the creation of micron-sized micropores or microchannels in the skin which can then allow the transport of water soluble molecules and macromolecules. Technologies which can create these microchannels in the skin include mechanical microneedles, thermal or radiofrequency ablation and laser ablation. These technologies will open a new frontier for the delivery of biopharmaceuticals, as these hydrophilic macromolecules cannot be delivered via the skin passively. Companies which are developing these technologies are discussed, along with potential hurdles to commercialization related to the elasticity of skin, immunogenicity issues, pore closure kinetics, or microneedle material and geometries. In spite of the obstacles, these technologies look very promising and are likely to revolutionize transdermal drug delivery in the near future. Bioavailability considerations and the potential use of inexpensive coated microneedles for mass immunizations are also discussed.
Bonding of fluorine-implanted and annealed silicon

Abstract The effects of low temperature annealing on crystalline silicon samples, made amorphous by the ion-implantation of fluorine ions, has been studied using infrared spectroscopy. The implantation process is shown to result in a metastable state which, upon subsequent thermal annealing, converts to the well-characterized stretching and bending modes found in deposited silicon-fluorine films. Using arguments based on molecular orbital theory and model calculations, the metastable state is identified as a silicon-fluorine-silicon bridge.
Differences across gender, grade level, and academic track in the content of the ideal self-image.

Students from the 5th, 8th, and 11th grades (55 male and 53 female) were asked to describe their ideal self-image. Analyses revealed a number of gender and developmental differences not found with other self-image measures. A greater proportion of females than males mentioned two of the categories related to family life: marriage and improving relations with their family of origin. Mentions of categories surrounding athletics were more prevalent among males. Grade level differences in the content of the ideal self-image reflected cognitive-developmental shifts away from concrete descriptors, changes in physical maturity and the heightened importance of peer relationships around adolescence, and the approach of developmental milestones. Fewer students mentioned physical appearance at higher grade levels. Mentions of athletic abilities and social acceptance peaked at the 8th grade, while mentions of college, marriage, and having children rose at higher grade levels. Differences in the content areas mentioned by average versus advanced track students appeared to reflect differences in both cognitive-developmental level and socialization experiences.
Biological and chemical terrorism

Abstract Many different types of potential threats have been identified in the ongoing war against terrorism. Epidemiological threats are not software threats, but perhaps can be better referred to as “soft body” threats. This requires preparedness and response to various kinds of unconventional terrorism, especially biological, chemical, and radiological or nuclear.
Development of a (32)P-postlabeling/HPLC method for detection of dehydroretronecine-derived DNA adducts in vivo and in vitro.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are naturally occurring genotoxic chemicals produced by a large number of plants. Metabolism of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in vivo and in vitro generates dehydroretronecine (DHR) as a common reactive metabolite. In this study, we report the development of a 32P-postlabeling/HPLC method for detection of (i) two DHR−3‘-dGMP and four DHR−3‘-dAMP adducts and (ii) a set of eight DHR-derived DNA adducts in vitro and in vivo. The approach involves (1) synthesis of DHR−3‘-dGMP, DHR−3‘-dAMP, and DHR−3‘,5‘-dG-bisphosphate standards and characterization of their structures by mass and 1H NMR spectral analyses, (2) development of optimal conditions for enzymatic DNA digestion, adduct enrichment, and 32P-postlabeling, and (3) development of optimal HPLC conditions. Using this methodology, we have detected eight DHR-derived DNA adducts, including the two epimeric DHR−3‘,5‘-dG-bisphosphate adducts both in vitro and in vivo.
SiH stretching vibration in silicon suboxides: Local and remote induction effects

Abstract We have deposited hydrogenated silicon suboxides (SiOr:H, for r between 0 and 2) by Remote PECVD under conditions in which H is bonded predominantly in monohydride (SiH) configurations. The shape and position of the infrared (ir) absorption band due to the SiH stretching vibration is studied as a function of r. The band shape is synthesized using an expanded version of the chemical induction model which includes both local and remote (network) effects.
Cut energy costs with scorecard measuring

With the rising cost of energy, many companies see energy usage as a critical success factor in their operations. But organizations need to develop strategic energy consumption plans—and measures to see if strategic goals are being met. The balanced scorecard can be a great tool for this, communicating strategic goals and linking performance measures to the strategy. The author explains what types of performance measures you can use to achieve their goals. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Information dissemination as reflected in U.S. government information policy and practice

Abstract This article places information dissemination by the U.S. government within the context of policy initiatives related to “managing for results,” accountability, and customer-driven services. Information resources therefore become linked to strategic planning, performance indicators, and benchmarking. The full implications of that linkage remain unexplored and offer challenges to executive branch agencies, the Office of Management and Budget, and Congress as they contribute to the national and global information infrastructures.
Conformational diversity and computational enzyme design

The application of computational protein design methods to the design of enzyme active sites offers potential routes to new catalysts and new reaction specificities. Computational design methods have typically treated the protein backbone as a rigid structure for the sake of computational tractability. However, this fixed-backbone approximation introduces its own special challenges for enzyme design and it contrasts with an emerging picture of natural enzymes as dynamic ensembles with multiple conformations and motions throughout a reaction cycle. This review considers the impact of conformational variation and dynamics on computational enzyme design and it highlights new approaches to addressing protein conformational diversity in enzyme design including recent advances in multi-state design, backbone flexibility, and computational library design.
PASCHEN-α EMISSION IN THE GRAVITATIONALLY LENSED GALAXY SMM J163554.2+661225*

We report the detection of the Paalpha emission line in the z = 2.515 galaxy SMM J163554.2+661225 using Spitzer spectroscopy. SMM J163554.2+661225 is a submillimeter-selected infrared-luminous galaxy maintaining a high star formation rate (SFR), with no evidence of an active galactic nucleus from optical or infrared spectroscopy, nor X-ray emission. This galaxy is lensed gravitationally by the cluster Abell 2218, making it accessible to Spitzer spectroscopy. We measure a line luminosity, L(Paalpha) = (2.05 +- 0.33) x 10{sup 42} erg s{sup -1}, corrected for gravitational lensing. Comparing the Halpha and Paalpha luminosities, we derive a nebular extinction, A(V) = 3.6 +- 0.4 mag. The dust-corrected luminosity, L(Paalpha) = (2.57 +- 0.43) x 10{sup 42} erg s{sup -1}, corresponds to an ionization rate, Q {sub 0} = (1.6 +- 0.3) x 10{sup 55} gamma s{sup -1}. The instantaneous SFR is psi = 171 +- 28 M {sub sun} yr{sup -1}, assuming a Salpeter-like initial mass function from 0.1 to 100 M {sub sun} yr{sup -1}. The total IR luminosity derived using 70, 450, and 850 mum data is L{sub IR} = (5-10) x 10{sup 11} L {sub sun}, corrected for gravitational lensing. This corresponds to psi = 90-180 M {sub sun}more » yr{sup -1}, where the upper range is consistent with that derived from the Paalpha luminosity. While the L(8 mum)/L(Paalpha) ratio is consistent with the extrapolated relation observed in local galaxies and star-forming regions, the rest-frame 24 mum luminosity is significantly lower with respect to local galaxies of comparable Paalpha luminosity. Thus, SMM J163554.2+661225 arguably lacks a warmer dust component (T{sub D} approx 70 K), which is associated with deeply embedded star formation, and which contrasts with local galaxies with comparable SFRs. Rather, the starburst in SMM J163554.2+661225 is consistent with star-forming local galaxies with intrinsic luminosities, L{sub IR} approx 10{sup 10} L {sub sun}, but 'scaled up' by a factor of approx10-100.« less
A robust discrete-time adaptive controller

This paper proposes a discrete-time model reference adaptive control algorithm which is robust with respect to stable additive and multiplicative plant uncertainties. The algorithm employs the same controller structure as the one that would be used if the parameters of the dominant part of the plant were known and a robust adaptive law for adjusting the controller parameters. Using essentially the same assumptions that are necessary to design a fixed controller based on the exact knowledge of the dominant part of the plant, we show that the proposed algorithm guarantees boundedness for all signals in the closed loop and "small" residual tracking errors for any bounded initial conditions. In the absence of plant uncertainties, the algorithm guarantees zero residual tracking errors.
Effects of hydrothermal liquefaction on the fate of bioactive contaminants in manure and algal feedstocks

This study investigated the effects of hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) on the fate of bioactive compounds (BACs) often present with wet biosolids from wastewater, manure, or algae. Tracking radiolabeled (14)C for two BACs showed that 60-79% of the carbon was transferred to the HTL raw oil product, and most of the rest was found in the aqueous product. In the presence of both swine manure and Spirulina biomass feedstocks, HTL provided essentially complete removal of three BACs when operated at 300°C for ≥ 30 min. Experiments with both natural transformation and high-efficiency transformation showed that HTL provided complete deactivation of antibiotic resistant genes for all tested HTL conditions (250-300°C, 15-60 min reaction time). Thus, incorporating HTL into wastewater treatment systems can simultaneously produce valuable bio-crude oil, provide effective removal of BACs and disrupt the natural pathways for antibiotic resistant gene transfer from manure and wastewater biosolids to the environment.
Dimensionality of the bem sex role inventory: A multidimensional analysis

Bem has criticized psychological scales which categorize individuals as masculine or feminine and has developed the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI) to measure androgyny as well as femininity and masculinity. Bem's work on androgyny has stimulated not only a growing research tradition on androgyny but also methodological critiques of the BSRI instrument and scoring procedure. The purpose of this research is to replicate in part a study done by Pedhazur and Tetenbaum which raises serious questions about the unidimensionality of the feminine and masculine subscales in the BSRI. The alternative multidimensional techniques of factor analysis (the method used by Pedhazur and Tetenbaum) and smallest space analysis are applied to the BSRI data set. Both techniques indicate that the feminine and masculine subsets are not unidimensional, but they yield quite different results concerning the actual nature of the dimensions in the BSRI. The results of the factor analysis, but not the smallest space analysis, are consistent with the findings of Pedhazur and Tetenbaum, thus yielding mixed evidence about the validity of their conclusions based solely on factor-analyzed data.
Challenges of worker notification in neurotoxic studies of the central nervous system

Researchers who study the central nervous system (CNS) face special challenges in notifying study participants about the research results. There are human research guidelines regarding the communication of information to subjects at the outset of a CNS research study. Yet there are few guidelines on how to communicate to the subject the research findings and the interpretation of individual results at the study's conclusion. The research subjects may desire detailed information, unequivocal conclusions, understandable interpretations, and clear suggestions about what to do next. Fulfilling these needs, however, is not a simple task for the researcher because outcomes are predicated on statistical uncertainty and the research tests may not be appropriate for individual assessment. We describe methods we have used to communicate with research subjects in two CNS neurotoxic field studies. We suggest that further research examine this important notification process.