cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semileptonic decay of B c to η c and J / ψ on the light front

We study the semileptonic decay of the ${B}_{c}({0}^{\ensuremath{-}})$ to charmonia through the bottom-to-charm-quark electroweak current in the framework of basis light-front quantization. Explicitly, we calculate the weak transition form factors for processes of ${B}_{c}$ decaying into ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{c}$ or $J/\ensuremath{\psi}$ based on the corresponding initial and final valence light-front wave functions both obtained from the basis light-front quantization. We also present the corresponding differential decay width and branching ratios, as well as the branching ratios for decays into the ${{\ensuremath{\eta}}_{c}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ and the ${\ensuremath{\psi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$. We observe unphysical frame dependence of the calculated form factors, which is attributed to only including the valence light-front wave functions. Based on the analysis of the current component, we propose a preferred set of frames to calculate these form factors.
Extramedullary disease relapse and progression after blinatumomab therapy for treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND Blinatumomab has demonstrated encouraging activity in relapsed/refractory (r/r) and minimal residual disease-positive (MRD+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Extramedullary disease (EMD) relapse or relapse with CD19- disease has been observed after blinatumomab therapy in patients with r/r or MRD+ ALL. However, the pathophysiology and risk factors of treatment failure are not fully understood. METHODS This study retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of adult patients with B-cell ALL treated with blinatumomab (n = 132) for either r/r (n = 103) or MRD+ disease (n = 29) at the authors' center (2013-2021) and analyzed factors associated with treatment response and EMD failure. RESULTS The overall response rate was 64%. A lower marrow blast burden before blinatumomab (P = .049) and no history of previous EMD (P = .019) were significantly associated with a higher response. Among the patients who responded to blinatumomab, 56% underwent consolidation with allogeneic transplantation. Blinatumomab failure was observed in 89 patients; 43% of these patients (n = 38) either progressed or relapsed at extramedullary sites. A history of extramedullary involvement (53% vs 24%; P = .005) and retention of CD19 expression at the time of relapse/progression (97% vs 74%; P = .012) were associated with a higher risk for extramedullary failure. Central nervous system (CNS) failure after blinatumomab was encountered in 39% of the patients with EMD. CONCLUSIONS A history of EMD predicted an inferior response to blinatumomab therapy with a higher risk for relapse/progression at extramedullary sites (particularly CNS). Consolidation with allogenic transplantation in patients who primarily responded to blinatumomab did not abrogate the risk of extramedullary relapse. The incorporation of extramedullary assessment and the intensification of CNS prophylaxis may help in addressing extramedullary failure. LAY SUMMARY Extramedullary failure is common during blinatumomab therapy for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A history of extramedullary disease predicts an inferior response to blinatumomab therapy and a higher risk for relapse/progression at extramedullary sites. Most extramedullary failure cases retain CD19 expression.
Dynamic Sparse Tensor Algebra Compilation.

This paper shows how to generate efficient tensor algebra code that compute on dynamic sparse tensors, which have sparsity structures that evolve over time. We propose a language for precisely specifying recursive, pointer-based data structures, and we show how this language can express a wide range of dynamic data structures that support efficient modification, such as linked lists, binary search trees, and B-trees. We then describe how, given high-level specifications of such data structures, a compiler can generate code to efficiently iterate over and compute with dynamic sparse tensors that are stored in the aforementioned data structures. Furthermore, we define an abstract interface that captures how nonzeros can be inserted into dynamic data structures, and we show how this abstraction guides a compiler to emit efficient code that store the results of sparse tensor algebra computations in dynamic data structures. We evaluate our technique and find that it generates efficient dynamic sparse tensor algebra kernels. Code that our technique emits to compute the main kernel of the PageRank algorithm is 1.05$\times$ as fast as Aspen, a state-of-the-art dynamic graph processing framework. Furthermore, our technique outperforms PAM, a parallel ordered (key-value) maps library, by 7.40$\times$ when used to implement element-wise addition of a dynamic sparse matrix to a static sparse matrix.
Strain localization conditions under true triaxial stress states.

This work uses a bifurcation approach to develop theoretical predictions for deformation band formation for a suite of true triaxial tests on Castlegate sandstone. In particular, the influence of the intermediate principal stress on strain localization is examined. Using common simplifying assumptions (localization occurs at peak stress, and the failure surface is similar to the yield surface), theoretical predictions captured the overall trends observed experimentally. However, agreement between predicted and observed band orientations for individual specimens was varied. This highlights the importance of detailed data analyses to accurately determine key material parameter values at the inception of localization.
Ground Testing of a 10 K Sorption Cryocooler Flight Experiment (BETSCE)

The Brilliant Eyes Ten-Kelvin Sorption Cryocooler Experiment (BETSCE) is a Space Shuttle side-wall-mounted flight experiment designed to demonstrate 10 K sorption cryocooler technology in a space environment. The BETSCE objectives are to: (1) provide a thorough end-to-end characterization and space performance validation of a complete, multistage, automated, closed-cycle hydride sorption cryocooler in the 10 to 30 K temperature range, (2) acquire the quantitative microgravity database required to provide confident engineering design, scaling and optimization, (3) advance the enabling technologies and resolve integration issues, and (4) provide hardware qualification and safety verification heritage.
Género y Sexualidad: ¿Qué Dicen las Profesoras de Educación Infantil de Canoas, Brasil?

This article focuses the conceptions of gender and sexuality of the infant education teachers of the municipal schools net of the city of Canoas (Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil). We listed the contributions that set up our theoretical opinions. Afterwards we analyzed the focal group that was accomplished with 26 teachers, where we presented to the group images that deal about the theme and listened to their understandings. The results point out the necessity of including themes of gender and sexuality in the professional graduation formation and post graduation in the Pedagogy area.
The cross section for p + p - d + e(+) + nu(e)

The cross section for the fundamental proton-proton fusion process has been reevaluated, employing more accurate parameters such as the deuteron wave function and the weak-interaction coupling constant (from the neutron beta-decay). Small corrections have been computed, such as the effects of vacuum polarization on barrier penetration and the radiative corrections to the process; these two effects almost cancel. The cross section is larger than that computed in previous work. The effect on the expected flux of neutrinos from B-8 decay is a reduction by a factor of 0.92, narrowing the gap between theory and experiment in the solar neutrino problem.
A SYNOPSIS OF MYCOTIC DISEASES OF MARINE FISHES AND INVERTEBRATES

ABSTRACT: This brief review presents major examples of fungi and related organisms that have been reported to be associated with diseases of marine fish and invertebrates. Fungi are generally opportunistic invaders, especially of immunologically compromised hosts. Moreover, the invasion of hosts by fungi commonly represents a “dead end” in the life cycle of these organisms. Current knowledge about fungal pathogens of the categories of marine hosts under consideration is reviewed.
SPATIAL DYNAMICS OF VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL COLLABORATION

ABSTRACT:Although researchers have made progress in understanding motivations behind local government collaboration, there is little research that explores the spatial dynamics of such interactions...
Racialized Assimilation of Asian Americans

Because of the generally high socioeconomic attainments and high intermarriage rates of Asian Americans, it has been suggested that Asian Americans are reaching parity with whites and are assimilating to mainstream American society. However, other research shows the continued significance of race for Asian Americans regardless of their socioeconomic status and levels of acculturation. This article provides a review of recent research on socioeconomic attainment and intermarriage among Asian Americans as well as an overview of research on less studied but increasingly important indicators: residential outcomes, political participation, and mental health. We argue that Asian Americans are assimilating but in ways that differ from their European predecessors. In this process, racial/ethnic boundaries between Asians and whites may be solidified rather than dissolved, thus maintaining the significance of race for Asian Americans. We suggest that a racialized assimilation framework may best characterize the exp...
Epstein-Barr Virus That Lacks Glycoprotein gN Is Impaired in Assembly and Infection

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) glycoproteins N and M (gN and gM) are encoded by the BLRF1 and BBRF3 genes. To examine the function of the EBV gN-gM complex, recombinant virus was constructed in which the BLRF1 gene was interrupted with a neomycin resistance cassette. Recombinant virus lacked not only gN but also detectable gM. A significant proportion of the recombinant virus capsids remained associated with condensed chromatin in the nucleus of virus-producing cells, and cytoplasmic vesicles containing enveloped virus were scarce. Virus egress was impaired, and sedimentation analysis revealed that the majority of the virus that was released lacked a complete envelope. The small amount of virus that could bind to cells was also impaired in infectivity at a step following fusion. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that the predicted 78-amino-acid cytoplasmic tail of gM, which is highly charged and rich in prolines, interacts with the virion tegument. It is proposed that this interaction is important both for association of capsids with cell membrane to assemble and release enveloped particles and for dissociation of the capsid from the membrane of the newly infected cell on its way to the cell nucleus. The phenotype of EBV lacking the gN-gM complex is more striking than that of most alphaherpesviruses lacking the same complex but resembles in many respects the phenotype of pseudorabies virus lacking glycoproteins gM, gE, and gI. Since EBV does not encode homologs for gE and gI, this suggests that functions that may have some redundancy in alphaherpesviruses have been concentrated in fewer proteins in EBV.
A Review of An Introduction to Visual Theory and Practice in the Digital Age

Brooke Barnett, David Copeland, Harlen Makemson, and Phillip MotleyAn Introduction To Visual Theory And Practice In The Digital Age176 pagesNew York, NY: Peter Lang • 2011Hardcover $119.95, Paperba...
Team Identification, Team Performance and Leader-Member Exchange Relationships in Virtual Groups: Findings from Massive Multi-Player Online Role Play Games

While previous research has identified group identification as an important factor in affecting relevant outcomes (e.g., satisfaction, turnover, commitment) in face-to face environments, this paper provides initial evidence to support the proposition that group identification also matters in virtual environments. In particular, the authors found that team membersA¢â‚¬â„¢ perceptions of the leader-member exchange relationship and the teamA¢â‚¬â„¢s past performance are related to individualsA¢â‚¬â„¢ identification with the virtual team and that identification affects satisfaction and behavioral intentions. Individuals who perceive leader-member exchange as high (e.g., the leader displays a willingness to help the team member solve problems and the leader recognizes the memberA¢â‚¬â„¢s potential) and who report that their teams perform well had stronger identification with the team. Individuals who reported strong identification with their team were more satisfied with the team and had greater intentions to perform positive behaviors in the future.
Worsening shortness of breath.

ECGs from a 58-year-old man with type 2 diabetes who presents to the emergency room with dyspnea.
Vitamin B6 and protein content of infant formulas manufactured in the United States

Abstract One hundred thirty-three samples of infant formula collected during 1981–1983 and 1984–1985 were analyzed for vitamin B6 and protein. All formulas met the minimum requirements of the Infant Formula Act of 1980 for protein and vitamin B6. None exceeded the maximum Act requirements for protein. Mean vitamin B6 levels for milk-based and soy-based formulas in the 1981–1983 set were 99.4 and 112.2 gg/100 kcal, respectively. For the 1984–1985 formulas, the mean vitamin B6 levels for milk-based and soy-based formulas were 103.2 and 110.1 μg/100 kcal, respectively. Milk-based and soy-based formulas had mean protein values of 2.3 and 3.1 g/100 kcal (1981–1983), respectively, and 2.2 and 2.9 g/100 kcal (1984–1985), respectively. Significant differences (α = 0.05) were noted in Vitamin B6 levels for milk-based formulas produced by the various manufacturers in samples from 1984–1985. No significant differences were noted in B6 levels of milk-based formulas produced by the various manufacturers in samples from 1981–1983. Significant differences were noted in vitamin B6 levels in soy-based products and in protein levels of formulas produced by different manufacturers in both sample sets.
Discovery of Azetidinyl Ketolides for the Treatment of Susceptible and Multidrug Resistant Community-Acquired Respiratory Tract Infections

Respiratory tract bacterial strains are becoming increasingly resistant to currently marketed macrolide antibiotics. The current alternative telithromycin (1) from the newer ketolide class of macrolides addresses resistance but is hampered by serious safety concerns, hepatotoxicity in particular. We have discovered a novel series of azetidinyl ketolides that focus on mitigation of hepatotoxicity by minimizing hepatic turnover and time-dependent inactivation of CYP3A isoforms in the liver without compromising the potency and efficacy of 1.
Three-dimensional converging-diverging Gaussian beam diffraction by a volume grating.

The diffraction characteristics of a volume grating (VG) illuminated by a three-dimensional (3-D) converging–diverging Gaussian beam at conical incidence are investigated by applying 3-D finite-beam (FB) rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) based on the conventional 3-D RCWA in conjunction with two-dimensional plane-wave decomposition. The Gaussian beam is assumed to have an arbitrary incidence angle, an arbitrary azimuthal angle, and any linear polarization. The two cases with linear polarizations of the central beam of the Gaussian (E⊥K and H⊥K) are investigated. The diffraction efficiencies and the diffracted beam profiles for both unslanted VGs and slanted VGs (designed for substrate-mode optical interconnects) are presented. In general, the diffraction efficiencies of a converging–diverging spherical Gaussian beam diffracted by both unslanted VGs and slanted VGs increase and approach the central-beam results as the refractive-index modulation increases.
Cu wire bond parameter optimization on various bond pad metallization and barrier layer material schemes

Abstract The use of copper wire for semiconductor package assembly has been gradually gaining acceptance throughout the industry over the last decade. Although copper has several advantages over gold for wire bonding applications, the manufacturing difficulties using copper wire have made high volume, fine pitch copper bonding slow to materialize. In recent years with the spike in gold prices, copper wire has become even more attractive, and this has driven many studies on the topic. Due to the propensity for copper to work harden upon deformation, which occurs during the ball bonding process as the capillary tip smashes the ball into the bond pad, a high amount of stress is transferred into the bond pad structure. This can result in catastrophic defects such as dielectric cracking or pad cratering. The current study aims to quantify the level of underlying bond pad damage with respect to various bond pad metallization and barrier layer schemes. A first bond parameter optimization was completed on each experimental group. The results indicate that barrier layer structure and composition have a significant impact on the presence of pad cratering. The experimental group containing only TiN as the barrier material showed a high occurrence of cratering, while groups with Ti and TiW barrier metals showed no cratering, even if a TiN layer was on top of the Ti. The bond pad metal thickness, on the other hand, does not appear to play a significant role in the prevention of bond pad cratering. Metal thickness values ranging from 0.825 to 2.025 μm were evaluated, and none had bond pad cratering other than the group with TiN as the barrier metal. In addition to the first bond parameter evaluations with various bond pad and barrier metal combinations, the initial free air ball (FAB) optimization is discussed.
Study on Numerical Analysis of Temperature Fluctuations in a Mixing Piping

In reactor cooling systems of nuclear power plants, the fluctuating stresses on a piping system are potential causes of thermal fatigue failures. These stresses are generated by temperature fluctuations in regions where hot and cold flows are intensively mixed together. The present paper describes BSL Reynolds Stress (BSL-RSM) and Shear Stress Transport (SST) simulation data of thermal mixing in a mixing piping compared with results from experimental data carried out by the Laboratory for Nuclear Energy Systems, Institute for Energy Technology, ETHZ, Zurich, Switzerland. The experimental measurements (concentration of de-ionized water) have been carried out by the use of the 16×16 electrode wire-mesh sensors (WMS) on the basis of difference in liquid electrical conductivities. To verify the analogy between electrical conductivity of de-ionized water and temperature of water, the inlet temperatures of the hot and cold water are set to 80°C and 15 °C respectively in the simulation process. The analytic results are calculated by the commercial CFD code ANSYS CFX 11.0. It is known from literatures, that the different mesh types (Tetrahedral, Tetrahedral/Wedge, Hexahedral), different turbulence models (BSL-RSM, SST), and turbulent Prandtl numbers (0.9, 0.2, 0.1) will affect the simulation results of temperature fluctuations. Since the coefficient of determination, R2 , obtained by using Prt = 0.1 for SST turbulence model is between 0.999 and 0.915, which is higher than that by using Prt = 0.2 and Prt = 0.9, the perditions for smaller turbulent Prandtl number are in better agreement with measurements. Moreover, predicted results for Prt = 0.1 obtained by using BSL-RSM turbulence model are almost the same as those by using SST turbulence model. The computational results are in qualitative good agreement with experimental data that the mixing phenomenon of two different temperature water can be explained by de-ionized water with two different electrical conductivities. Additionally, the simulation results with Tetrahedral/Wedge and Hexahedral mesh types are better than those with Tetrahedral mesh type.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Higgs Boson Production with Heavy Quarks at Hadron Colliders

We present results for the production cross section of a Higgs boson with a pair of quarks, including next-to-leading order (NLO) QCD corrections.
The Thyroxine Secretion Rate of Growing White Pekin Ducks

Abstract THE role of the hormone of the thyroid gland, thyroxine, is becoming better appreciated by poultrymen as a result of the extensive experimental work being conducted with fowls concerning the effect both of mild hyper- and hypothyroidism. This work has been made possible by the use of two new products, thyroprotein and thiouracil, which may be incorporated in the poultry rations to induce these two conditions. The experimental work in this field is beginning to show that certain strains of fowls show improvement in the growth and egg production rate when their normal thyroid secretion rate is increased from exogenous sources. Other strains may show less benefit. It has been suggested that these variations in responsiveness are due to the variation in the level of the normal thyroid secretion rate. If the fowls have an optimal normal thyroid hormone secretion rate, then the further increase in the available thyroxine will . . .
MIMIC-An Opportunity that Must not be Missed

The Microwave and Millimeter Wave Monolithic Integrated Circuits (MIMIC) program, sponsored by the United States Department of Defense (DoD), provides the resources and structure that will make it possible to transition the results of many years of productive research and development in gallium arsenide technology into a manufacturable production process. This will allow the efficient and affordable manufacture of monolithic format, microwave and millimeter wave frequency integrated circuits needed for a wide variety of applications. Profitable production of these circuits will allow a self-sustaining business base to be established and assure the future availability of these circuits. This paper describes the objectives that must be met for this effort to be a success, reviews the progress to date on the program and discusses future planned activities.
Butterfly diversity and human land use: Species assemblages along an urban gradient

Abstract We examined the distribution and abundance of butterfly species across an urban gradient and concomitant changes in community structure by censusing the butterfly and skipper populations at 48 points within six sites near Palo Alto, California, USA (all former oak woodlands). These sites represent a gradient of urban land use running from relatively undisturbed to highly developed and include a nature preserve, recreational area, golf course, residential neighborhood, office park and business district. The species richness and Shannon diversity of butterflies peaked at moderately disturbed sites while the relative abundance decreased from the natural to the urban areas. Butterfly species thought to be most representative of the original, predevelopment butterfly fauna progressively disappear as the sites become more urban. These patterns are significantly related to shifts in habitat structure that occur along the gradient as determined by canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) using the environmental variables of percent land covered by pavement, buildings, lawn, grasslands, and trees or shrubs. The mechanisms behind these patterns may be related to life history and resource use by the individual butterfly species.
BASIC ASPECTS OF CALCIUM CHEMISTRY AND MEMBRANE INTERACTION: ON THE MESSENGER ROLE OF CALCIUM*

To summarize the perspective developed in this lecture we begin by considering it as axiomatic: (1) that aqueous domains delimited by lipid membranes typify cellular structure; (2) that different compositions of extracellular and intracellular aqueous domains and differences among intracellular aqueous domains require selective permeation of lipid membranes; and (3) that inorganic ion movements across lipid membranes are a common denominator in permeation. This set of axioms lead to the following set of postulates: (1) Evolutionary solutions to the problematic apposition of ions and lipid barriers are fundamental aspects of cell function. (2) An effective messenger role for communication between aqueous domains requires (a) meticulous modulation of movement across lipid membranes and (b) selective interactions within aqueous domains. (3) An ion would be an effective messenger. In a search for an appropriate ionic messenger it is noted that inorganic cations have a wider range of interactions with biomolecules than anions, that the prevalent monovalent cations have too high a flux across lipid membranes and too weak an interaction with molecules in aqueous domains, that trivalent cations cannot as effectively be transported across lipid membranes, that divalent cation movement across lipid membranes can be well modulated and their divalent charge allows for a wide range of binding constants with biological molecules, and that for reasons of radius-compatibility with polypeptide chelation and due to the lack of stringent crystal field requirements, Ca2+ is a most suitable divalent cation for a messenger role.
Covalent Binding of a Reactive Metabolite Derived from Propranolol and Its Active Metabolite 4-Hydroxypropranolol to Hepatic Microsomal Proteins of the Rat

Repeated administration of propranolol (PL) to rats causes the inhibition of cytochrome P450-2D (P450-2D) enzyme. We recently found that 4-hydroxypropranolol (4-OH-PL) was biotransformed to 1,4-naphthoquinone (1,4-NQ) by superoxide (SO) anions in medium containing rat liver microsomes and NADPH and proposed that the binding of the quinone to P450-2D apoproteins might be one of mechanisms for the enzyme inhibition [Narimatsu et al. (1995) Chem. Res. Toxicol. 8, 721-728]. In this study, we have searched for possible sources of SO for the conversion of 4-OH-PL to 1,4-NQ in rat liver microsomes and determined the radioactivity covalently bound to microsomal proteins after incubation of radioactive PL and 4-OH-PL with rat liver microsomes. Elimination of 4-OH-PL from a mixture containing microsomes and NADPH was suppressed by carbon monoxide. Antibodies raised to P450-2B1 and -3A2 partially, and antibody against NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase (fp2) markedly suppressed the reaction. 1,4-NQ was formed concomitantly with 4-OH-PL elimination by a reconstituted preparation of fp2. Binding studies using naphthalene ring (NR)- and side chain (SC)-radiolabeled PL and 4-OH-PL showed that radioactivity covalently bound to microsomal proteins was much higher from 4-OH-PL than from PL for the NR-labeled compounds, but higher from PL than from 4-OH-PL for the SC-labeled compounds. These results suggest that the 4-OH-PL formed from PL by P450-2D enzyme is converted to 1,4-NQ with loss of the side chain, and the 1,4-NQ accounts for most of the radioactivity covalently bound to microsomal proteins, including the P450-2D enzymes. The SO for conversion of 4-OH-PL to 1,4-NQ is supplied mainly by fp2 with some contribution by P450 enzymes.
Applicability of bond percolation theory to intergranular stress-corrosion cracking of sensitized AlSl 304 stainless steel

A model system (isothermally sensitized 304 stainless steel in the SL-EPR test environment) was examined in order to assess the significance of the percentage of active grain boundaries on intergranular stress-corrosion cracking (IGSCC) susceptibility. The relationship between the primary passivation potential and Cr concentration was exploited in order (1) to determine the population distributions of grain boundary minimum Cr contents and (2) to subsequently control the quantity of active grain boundaries in a constant extension rate (CER) test. A significant decrease in resistance to IGSCC was observed when greater than 23 pct of the grain boundaries were active during the CER test, regardless of the distribution of Cr-depletion levels among the individual grain boundaries. Such an abrupt decrease in IGSCC resistance at greater than 23 pct active grain boundaries has been interpreted within the context of bond percolation theory. This critical value corresponds to a one-dimensional bond percolation threshold for a three-dimensional array of tetrakaidecahedra and confirms the results of Wells and co-workers. The implications of a possible threshold in the case of IGSCC in sensitized 304 stainless steel (304SS) exposed to oxygenated water at 288 °C are examined. Here it is believed that the 23 pct criterion is a necessary but not sufficient criterion for IGSCC. Other considerations are discussed.
Measuring air quality to protect children from secondhand smoke in cars

Background Secondhand tobacco smoke (SHS) is a major, preventable contributor to acute and chronic adverse health outcomes that affect children disproportionately. The predominant source of SHS among children is domestic exposure, and while up to two thirds of U.S. households have car smoking bans, an unacceptable number of children remain vulnerable. To help promote more effective protection through legislation, health communication strategies, or behavioral interventions, data demonstrating the adverse effect of SHS on air quality in cars are needed. Methods Secondhand tobacco smoke in a motor vehicle under actual driving conditions was monitored by measuring respirable suspended particles (RSPs) of less than 2.5 microns in diameter, and carbon monoxide. Forty-five driving trials were conducted, using teams of volunteer drivers and smokers recruited from the general community. Three smoking conditions (nonsmoking baseline, active smoking, and immediate post-smoking period, each 5 minutes) were crossed with two ventilation conditions (windows open, closed) in a 3 × 2 within-sessions factorial design. Results The highest mean observed RSP level was 271 μg/m 3 , which is unsafe, particularly for children. Peak RSP levels were considerably higher. RSPs and carbon monoxide increased significantly from baseline after smoking, and these increases were greatest during the closed ventilation condition, compared with open ventilation. Conclusions Private passenger cars are a domestic environment with the potential to yield unsafe levels of SHS contaminants. These data may assist policymakers and health advocates to promote protective strategies to ensure smoke-free domestic environments for children.
Regulation of the Lemon-Fruit V-ATPase by Variable Stoichiometry and Organic Acids

The lemon-fruit V-ATPase can exist in two forms: nitrate-sensitive and nitrate-insensitive. Here we report the results of measurements of H+ /ATP stoichiometries using two kinetic methods: one based on steady-state DpH and one based on initial rates of H+-pumping. Our findings indicate that the nitrate-insensitive fruit V-ATPase has an H+ /ATP stoichiometry of ~1, while both the nitrate-sensitive fruit V-ATPase and the epicotyl V-ATPase have stoichiometries of 2, under zero-load conditions. As DpH increases, the stoichiometry of the nitrate-sensitive fruit V-ATPase decreases to 1. Under similar conditions, the stoichiometry of the epicotyl enzyme remains 2. Thus, the pH-dependent variable stoichiometry of the lemon-fruit V-ATPase may represent a key factor in juice sac vacuolar hyperacidification. On the other hand, the H+ /ATP stoichiometry of the epicotyl V-ATPase can decrease from 2 to 1 in the presence of a membrane potential. The low pH of the fruit vacuole is not due solely to the lower H+/ATP stoichiometry of its pump. We show that lumenal citrate and malate improve the coupling of both the epicotyl and fruit V-ATPases and enhance their ability to generate a pH gradient. Since citrate accumulation is restricted to fruit vacuoles, it may be another important determinant of vacuolar pH.
Polemical Ambivalence: Modernity and Utopia in |[Zcaron]|i|[zcaron]|ek's The Puppet and the Dwarf

Beginning from the hypothesis that Slavoj Žižek's recent ‘theological’ writing really concerns issues in political theory — historicity, modernity and freedom — ‘polemical ambivalence’ uses a fundamental structural ambiguity in his recent book, The Puppet and Dwarf, to interpret his larger project as split about the utopian aspect of modernity. The Puppet and the Dwarf is riven by modernity, with the text's central argument demonstrating the importance of the modern perspective but with the framing material (introduction, appendix, etc.) demanding that we reverse this appraisal. Modernism elicits both a basic allegiance from Žižek and (in the form of historicism) a basic opposition. Since for Žižek it is the only way that political theory can remain true to the utopian demands of freedom, such ‘ambivalence’ about modernity is the unacknowledged ground of Žižek's thought, and my paper moves toward a consideration of its value in explaining some of the elusive elements of his work — the role and limits of ‘science’ in politics, the necessity and impossibility of utopian imagination, the problem of belief and faith in revolutionary movements.
Distinct patterns of downstream target activation are specified by the helix-loop-helix domain of proneural basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors.

Abstract Both gain- and loss-of-function analyses indicate that proneural basic/helix–loop–helix (bHLH) proteins direct not only general aspects of neuronal differentiation but also specific aspects of neuronal identity within neural progenitors. In order to better understand the function of this family of transcription factors, we have used hormone-inducible fusion constructs to assay temporal patterns of downstream target regulation in response to proneural bHLH overexpression. In these studies, we have compared two distantly related Xenopus proneural bHLH genes, Xash1 and XNgnr1. Our findings indicate that both Xash1 and XNgnr1 induce expression of the general neuronal differentiation marker, N-tubulin, with a similar time course in animal cap progenitor populations. In contrast, these genes each induce distinct patterns of early downstream target expression. Both genes induce expression of the HLH-containing gene, Xcoe2, at early time points, but only XNgnr1 induces early expression of the bHLH genes, Xath3 and XNeuroD. Structure:function analyses indicate that the distinct pattern of XNgnr1-induced downstream target activation is linked to the XNgnr1 HLH domain, demonstrating a novel role for this domain in mediating the differential function of individual members of the proneural bHLH gene family.
Assessment of diffusion coefficient from mucoadhesive barrier devices using artificial neural networks

This study is aimed to elucidate the physicodynamic phenomena governing diffusion coefficient (D) of the loaded drugs in a female controlled drug delivery system (FcDDS) and to find the most influencing variable on the diffusivity using artificial neural networks (ANN). The release profiles of sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), a topical microbicide used as a model drug, from FcDDS were obtained using in vitro apparatus, the Simulant Vaginal System (SVS), under various conditions. The effects of formulation and intrinsic/extrinsic variables on the diffusivity of SDS were assessed using artificial neural networks (ANN). The release profiles of SDS from FcDDS revealed a non-linear relationship between the diffusivity and formulation/physiological variables. Intrinsic variables (vaginal fluid pH, vaginal fluid secretion rate) have a more prominent role in defining the diffusion coefficient of SDS from FcDDS than formulation variables (formulation loading weight and loaded doses in the formulation) or extrinsic variables (inserting position). Among 5 variables, pH of vagina fluids is the most influencing factor in defining the diffusion coefficient (maximum value of 0.95 ± 0.04) of SDS from FcDDS. The external exposure conditions clearly outweighed the effects of the formulation variables on the diffusion coefficient of SDS. A model-based approach can be used to assess the diffusion coefficient of loaded drugs in FcDDS under the given conditions, leading to a parameter-specific prevention strategy against sexually transmitted diseases (STD) with a high degree of confidence.
On the possible role of small ions in the interpretation of dynamic light-scattering data

Abstract Quasi-elastic light scattering (QELS) data suggest a somewhat bizarre ionic strength dependence for the dynamics of poly(lysine). Upon decreasing the concentration of added salt, the apparent diffusion coefficient (Dapp) computed from the QELS data first increases in value and then catastrophically drops by over an order of magnitude at a certain critical salt concentration (Cc) whose value is a function of the lysine residue concentration (C′p) and not the molecular weight of the polyion. In contrast, other physical properties do not undergo such an abrupt variation in value but exhibit relatively mild changes over the same added salt range, i.e., the tracer diffusion coefficient (DTr), relative viscosity, and relative conductivity. We report in this communication QELS and fluorescent photobleaching recovery (FPR) data on poly(lysine), which corroborate the differences in the added salt behavior of Dapp and DTr previously reported in the literature. These observations are interpreted in terms of small ion effects on both the dynamics and the scattering power of the polyions. We examine the possible role of a shell of small ions about the polyion scattering unit using expressions derived by M. Kerker and co-workers [M. Kerker, J. Opt. Soc. Amer. 65, 376 (1975); M. Kerker, D. D. Cooke, and W. D. Ross, Paint Res. Inst. Proc. 47, 33 (1975); H. Chew and M. Kerker, J. Opt. Soc. Amer. 66, 445 (1976)] for the scattering power for confocal ellipsoids of different dielectric properties.
A cysteine residue located in the transmembrane domain of CD44 is important in binding of CD44 to hyaluronic acid.

In the transmembrane domain and cytoplasmic domain of human CD44 protein there are two cysteine residues. These two cysteines are conserved in all known mammalian CD44 proteins. The functions of these cysteine residues are not known. Site-specific mutagenesis was used to create CD44 mutant proteins lacking either one or both of these cysteine residues. Wild-type CD44 and mutant CD44 genes were transfected into CD44- Jurkat cells to establish stable transfectants. These transfectants were used to study whether these two cysteine residues are important in the binding of CD44(H) to fluorescein-conjugated hyaluronic acid (F-HA). Jurkat transfectant bearing wild-type CD44 did not bind F-HA, unless they were stimulated in vitro with immobilized anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody. Anti-CD3 antibody also stimulated the binding of F-HA in Jurkat CD44.C295A transfectant in which the cytoplasmic cysteine residue has been replaced with alanine. In contrast, anti-CD3 antibody failed to stimulate the binding of F-HA in Jurkat transfectant (CD44.C286A), in which the transmembrane domain cysteine 286 has been replaced with an alanine, and in Jurkat transfectant CD44.2C2A, in which both of the cysteine residues have been altered. Binding can also be induced with a monoclonal anti-CD44 antibody (F-44-10-2) in Jurkat wild-type CD44 and Jurkat CD44.C295A transfectants but not in CD44. C286A transfectant. These results provide evidence that the transmembrane domain of CD44, more specifically the cysteine residue in the transmembrane domain, is important for both activation-induced and anti-CD44 antibody-induced binding of soluble HA.
WE-D-204B-02: Correlated 3D Respiratory Motion Prediction with Low-Dimensional Feature-Based Learning

Purpose: Current methods of respiratory motion prediction treat each dimension independently. In this study we develop and investigate a low dimensional inference methodology that takes advantage of the correlative relation among various physical dimensions for respiratory motion prediction. Method and Materials: Covariate‐response training pairs are constructed in the original 3D physical space, via state augmentation. Unlike existing methods where independent inference models are built for each of the x,y,z coordinates, we first map these high dimensional paired samples into a lower dimensional feature space, spanned by the principle components. In this feature space, a Gaussian kernel with block‐diagonal covariance is employed for learning the joint covariate‐response pdf, which upon marginalization yields the distribution for the projected prediction value. Finally, the estimate in the feature space is mapped back into the original physical space to recover the prediction representation in the (x,y,z) coordinate. The proposed method is compared against its counterpart with independent prediction, using 159 lung motion traces from the Synchrony respiratory tracking system. Both methods were tested for predicting 160ms and 570ms, spanning the range of measured DMLC tracing system latencies. Performance is quantified with 3D RMSE and 90% percentile 3D error. Results: Under fair setup conditions, the proposed method achieves better performance than its independent counterpart. The case‐wise 3D RMSE was reduced by 30–40%, with p‐values in the order of 10(−14) for both lookahead lengths. The 90% percentile 3D error was reduced from 1.8mm to 1.1mm for 160ms prediction and from 2.8mm to 2.0mm for 570ms prediction. Conclusion: We have proposed a general low dimensional feature learning methodology to perform correlated high dimensional inference. Combining it with the already effective kernel density estimation yields a highly efficient approach for real‐time respiratory motion prediction. Research supported by NIH/NCI R01 93626, Varian Medical Systems, and AAPM Research Seed Funding initiative.
Sigmoidal inclusion trails, punctuated fabric development, and interactions between metamorphism and deformation

Porphyroblast inclusion fabrics are consistent in style and geometry across three Proterozoic metamorphic field gradients, comprising two pluton-related gradients in central Arizona and one regional gradient in northern New Mexico. Garnet crystals contain curved ‘sigmoidal’ inclusion trails. In low-grade chlorite schists, these trails can be correlated directly with matrix crenulations of an older schistosity (S1). The garnet crystals preferentially grew in crenulation hinges, but some late crenulations nucleated on existing garnet porphyroblasts. At higher grade, biotite, staurolite and andalusite porphyroblasts occur in a homogeneous S2 foliation primarily defined by matrix biotite and ilmenite. Biotite porphyroblasts have straight to sigmoidal inclusion trails that also represent the weakly folded S1 schistosity. Staurolite and andalusite contain distinctive inclusion-rich and inclusion-poor domains that represent a relict S2 differentiated crenulation cleavage. Together, the inclusion relationships document the progressive development of the S2 fabric through six stages. Garnet and biotite porphyroblasts contain stage 2 or 3 crenulations; staurolite and andalusite generally contain stage 4 crenulations, and the matrix typically contains a homogeneous stage 6 cleavage. The similarity of inclusion relationships across spatially and temporally distinct metamorphic field gradients of widely differing scales suggests a fundamental link between metamorphism and deformation. Three end-member relationships may be involved: (1) tectonic linkages, where similar P-T-time histories and similar bulk compositions combine to produce similar metamorphic and structural signatures; (2) deformation-controlled linkages, where certain microstructures, particularly crenulation hinges, are favourable environments for the nucleation and/or growth of porphyroblasts; and (3) reaction-controlled linkages, where metamorphic reactions, particularly dehydration reactions, are associated with an increase in the rate of fabric development. A general model is proposed in which (1) garnet and biotite porphyroblasts preferentially grow in stage 2 or 3 crenulation hinges, and (2) chlorite-consuming metamorphic reactions lead to pulses in the rate of fabric evolution. The data suggest that fabric development and porphyroblast growth may have been quite rapid, of the order of several hundreds of thousands of years, in these rocks. These microstructures and processes may be characteristic of low-pressure, first-cycle metamorphic belts.
Axion cold dark matter in nonstandard cosmologies

We study the parameter space of cold dark matter axions in two cosmological scenarios with nonstandard thermal histories before big bang nucleosynthesis: the low-temperature reheating (LTR) cosmology and the kination cosmology. If the Peccei-Quinn symmetry breaks during inflation, we find more allowed parameter space in the LTR cosmology than in the standard cosmology and less in the kination cosmology. On the contrary, if the Peccei-Quinn symmetry breaks after inflation, the Peccei-Quinn scale is orders of magnitude higher than standard in the LTR cosmology and lower in the kination cosmology. We show that the axion velocity dispersion may be used to distinguish some of these nonstandard cosmologies. Thus, axion cold dark matter may be a good probe of the history of the Universe before big bang nucleosynthesis.
Compensation to Managers of Charitable Organizations: An Empirical Study of the Role of Accounting Measures of Program Activities

We investigate how unique features of charities affect the manner in which they compensate their executives. We find that changes in compensation are significantly positively associated with changes in spending on programs that advance organization objectives, whether changes in program spending are attributable to changes in revenue raised or to changes in the relative costs of administering the charity. The results suggest that accounting performance measures can play a role in nonprofit organizations whose objectives are typically subjective and nonfinancial, and thus, whose progress toward objectives is difficult to quantify.
Differential ACTH response of immunodetectable HMG CoA reductase and cytochromes P450(17 alpha) and P450(21) in guinea pig adrenal outer zone cell types, zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata.

In the guinea pig adrenal the cells of the outer zone secrete high levels of steroid and respond to ACTH with increased synthesis of cholesterol and steroid. The outer zone consists of two cell types: zona fasciculata (ZF) and zona glomerulosa (ZG). To determine the relative contribution of ZF and ZG to the outer zone's ACTH response, purified populations of each cell type were prepared from ACTH-treated and control animals. Levels of proteins potentially involved in the ACTH response were measured by ELISA. HMG CoA reductase, the rate limiting enzyme of cholesterol synthesis, and two cytochrome P450s, P45017α and P45021, were studied. P45017α is required for production of cortisol, but not for corticosterone or aldosterone. P45021 is required for production of all of these corticosteroids. ZF cells had 4-5 fold greater concentration of all three proteins, but the proteins in ZG cells showed a greater response to ACTH (3 fold). The response of ZG cells to ACTH and their possession of P45017α is consistent...
Synthesis and biodistribution of 18F-labeled fluoronitroimidazoles: potential in vivo markers of hypoxic tissue.

Three 18F labeled fluoronitroimidazoles have been prepared as potential in vivo markers of hypoxic cells in tumors, and ischemic areas of the heart and brain. 1-(2-Nitroimidazolyl)-3-[18F]fluoro-2-hydroxypropanol (18F]fluoro-normethoxymisonidazole) 4, 1-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)-2-nitroimidazole 7, and 1-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)-2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole ([18F]fluoro-norhydroxymetronidazole) 10 were prepared in average radiochemical yields of <1%, 23% and 15–43% (8% at the no carrier-added level) respectively at end-of-synthesis. The in vivo biodistribution in rats was determined for each of the 18F labeled fluoronitroimidazoles. At 1 and 3 h after administration, the tissue distribution of each of the 18F labeled nitroimidzaoles was quite uniform and consistent with that of nitroimidazoles previously studied. These results suggest the need for a suitable animal model to evaluate their potential as in vivo markers of hypoxic tissue in the brain.