cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A general method for visualizing enzymes releasing adenosine or adenosine-5′-monophosphate

The use of specific staining methods to visualize enzymes, following separation by electrophoresis or isoelectric focusing, has proven to be a powerful tool for the biochemical analysis of biological samples. The coupling of NAD and NADH reduction by dehydrogenases to formazan production has provided the most general system for the visualization of enzyme reactions. The sequential nature of biochemical pathways has allowed the coupling of a variety of enzymatic reactions not easily amendable to direct visualization to a proximal dehydrogenase reaction, and the commercial availability of a variety of purified enzymes has made it possible to extend the dehydrogenase reactions to the visualization of more distal enzyme activities. In this paper we describe a general system of enzyme reactions which can be used to visualize any enzyme whose activity produces either adenosine or adenosine-5'-monophosphate (AMP). This system should make it possible to stain specifically a variety of enzymes for which no method now exists and provide the basis for simplifying a number of existing staining methods. The adenosine-releasing reaction is illustrated using the enzyme S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase and the AMP-releasing activity is demonstrated for the enzyme adenylate kinase.
Herman Kalman Gold, MD 1940–2008

Dr Herman K. Gold, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass, died on March 1, 2008, at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) of complications related to acute myelogenous leukemia. He was 67 years old. Dr Gold served for 37 years as staff physician and interventional cardiologist in the Department of Cardiology at MGH and was responsible for groundbreaking research in the use of fibrinolytic agents and subsequently glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in the treatment of myocardial infarction. Dr Gold was born in Newport News, Va, the son of Jonah and Miriam Gold. His life was from early childhood shaped by medicine, a recognition of the role it played in saving his own life, which drove his passion, hope, and tireless energy in the pursuit of medical advances and clinical excellence to save others. Two indelible childhood events fueled his desire to become a physician. As a child, he contracted scarlet fever. During wartime, penicillin was rationed, and the family was only able to obtain enough for a few doses. He recalled that every night, his parents would boil his urine to collect enough penicillin for the next day’s treatment. Later, at the age of 9, he contracted bulbar polio, which prevented him from swallowing properly for nearly 2 years. These two experiences imprinted in him an appreciation for good health and a feeling of personal obligation as a physician to try sometimes unconventional treatments in an effort to cure patients’ ills. Dr Gold received his BS from the College of William and Mary in 1961. It was there he …
Raman and infrared studies of synthetic Maya pigments as a function of heating time and dye concentration

Maya Blue is a famous indigo-based pigment produced by the ancient Mayas. The organic/inorganic complexes inspired by Maya Blue have led to a new class of surface compounds that have novel applications to pigment industries. Materials analyzed in the present work are made by a synthetic route, and demonstrate chemical stability similar to that of the ancient Maya Blue samples. However, we have learned that stable complexes can be synthesized at much higher dye concentrations than used by the Mayas. Analysis by FT-Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy demonstrates the partial elimination of the selection rules for the centrosymmetric indigo, indicating distortion of the molecule. This distortion accounts for the observed color changes, as the molecular orbital structure is modified, allowing the complex to stabilize. The spectroscopic data also shows the disappearance of the indigo NH bonding, as the organic molecules incorporate into palygorskite material. A structural change of indigo to dehydroindigo during heating is suggested by this result. Infrared data confirm the loss of zeolitic water and a partial removal of structural water after the heating process. Evidence of bonding between cationic aluminum and dehydroindigo through oxygen and nitrogen is revealed by FT-Raman measurements at higher dye concentrations. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and evaluation of EPA method 1615 for detection of enterovirus and norovirus in water.

ABSTRACT The U.S. EPA developed a sample concentration and preparation assay in conjunction with the total culturable virus assay for concentrating and measuring culturable viruses in source and drinking waters as part of the Information Collection Rule (ICR) promulgated in 1996. In an effort to improve upon this method, the U.S. EPA recently developed Method 1615: Measurement of Enterovirus and Norovirus Occurrence in Water by Culture and RT-qPCR. Method 1615 uses a culturable virus assay with reduced equipment and labor costs compared to the costs associated with the ICR virus method and introduces a new molecular assay for the detection of enteroviruses and noroviruses by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. In this study, we describe the optimization of several new components of the molecular assay and examine virus recovery from ground, reagent-grade, and surface water samples seeded with poliovirus type 3 and murine norovirus. For the culturable virus and molecular assays, mean poliovirus recovery using the complete method was 58% and 20% in groundwater samples, 122% and 39% using low-titer spikes in reagent-grade water, 42% and 48% using high-titer spikes in reagent-grade water, and 11% and 10% in surface water with high turbidity, respectively. Murine norovirus recovery by the molecular assay was 30% in groundwater samples, less than 8% in both low- and high-titer spikes in reagent-grade water, and 6% in surface water with high turbidity. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of Method 1615 for use with groundwater samples and highlights the need for further research into its effectiveness with surface water.
Walsh-Fourier Analysis and its Statistical Applications

Abstract The aim of this article is to acquaint statisticians and practitioners, whose research activities require statistical methodology, with the statistical theory and applications of Walsh-Fourier analysis. It has been suggested that Walsh spectral analysis is suited to (albeit not restricted to) the analysis of discrete-valued and categorical-valued time series, and of time series that contain sharp discontinuities. I explain the need for Walsh-Fourier analysis, review the history and properties of Walsh functions, and outline the existing Walsh-Fourier theory for real-time stationary time series. I discuss various statistical applications based on the Walsh-Fourier transform and provide an annotated bibliography.
The Curious Treatment of the Coase Theorem in the Environmental Economics Literature, 1960–1979

AbstractThis article examines the first two decades of the history of the Coase theorem in environmental economics, a period during which the theorem’s validity was widely acknowledged but its rele...
SU-E-T-290: Secondary Dose Monitoring Using Scintillating Fibers in Proton Therapy of Prostate Cancer: A Geant4 Monte Carlo Simulation

Purpose: To monitor the secondary dose distribution originating from a water phantom during proton therapy of prostate cancer using scintillating fibers. Methods: The Geant4 Monte Carlo toolkit version 9.6.p02 was used to simulate prostate cancer proton therapy based treatments. Two cases were studied. In the first case, 8 × 8 = 64 equally spaced fibers inside three 4 × 4 × 2.54 cmm3 DuPont™ Delrin blocks were used to monitor the emission of secondary particles in the transverse (left and right) and distal regions relative to the beam direction. In the second case, a scintillating block with a thickness of 2.54 cm and equal vertical and longitudinal dimensions as the water phantom was used. Geometrical cuts were used to extract the energy deposited in each fiber and the scintillating block. Results: The transverse dose distributions from secondary particles in both cases agree within <5% and with a very good symmetry. The energy deposited not only gradually increases as one moves from the peripheral row fibers towards the center of the block (aligned with the center of the prostate) but also decreases as one goes from the frontal to distal region of the block. The ratio of the doses from the prostate to the ones in the middle two rows of fibers showed a linear relationship with a slope (−3.55±2.26) × 10−5 MeV per treatment Gy. The distal detectors recorded a very small energy deposited due to water attenuation. Conclusion: With a good calibration and the ability to define a good correlation between the dose to the external fibers and the prostate, such fibers can be used for real time dose verification to the target.
Calcium signalling and cell-fate choice in B cells

Fluctuations in cytosolic calcium concentrations affect numerous signals involved in the development and function of B cells. Recent advances have expanded our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of cytosolic calcium concentrations and how this influences B-cell fate. Alterations in the cytosolic concentration of calcium ions (Ca2+) transmit information that is crucial for the development and function of B cells. Cytosolic Ca2+ concentration is determined by a balance of active transport and gradient-driven Ca2+ fluxes, both of which are subject to the influence of multiple receptors and environmental sensing pathways. Recent advances in genomics have allowed for the compilation of an increasingly comprehensive list of Ca2+ transporters and channels expressed by B cells. The increasing understanding of the function and regulation of these proteins has begun to shift the frontier of Ca2+ physiology in B cells from molecular analysis to determining how diverse inputs to cytosolic Ca2+ concentration are integrated in specific immunological contexts.
Rumination as a vulnerability factor to depression during the transition from early to middle adolescence: A multiwave longitudinal study.

The current study examined vulnerability to depression during the transition from early to middle adolescence from the perspective of the response styles theory. During an initial assessment, 382 adolescents (ages 11-15 years) completed self-report measures assessing rumination and depressive symptoms as well as a semistructured clinical interview assessing current and past major depressive episodes. Every 3 months for the subsequent 2 years, adolescents completed self-report measures assessing depressive symptoms and negative events. Every 6 months, adolescents completed a semistructured clinical interview assessing the onset of new major depressive episodes. Higher levels of rumination were associated with a greater likelihood of exhibiting a past history of major depressive episodes, a greater likelihood of experiencing the onset of a future major depressive episode, and greater duration of future depressive episodes. Consistent with a vulnerability-stress perspective, rumination moderated the association between the occurrence of negative events and the development of future depressive symptoms and major depressive episodes.
PRELIMINARY NOTE ON THE MATERNAL BEHAVIOR OF RATS LIVING IN PARABIOSIS

Experimental evidence accumulating during the past few years definitely connects the liberation of internal secretions from the ovary with the phenomenon of sexual receptivity in female rats (Lipschutz ’24). A striking illustration of this causal relationship was recently given by Allen (’24) when he demonstrated that sexual receptivity may be brought about in premature females or females from which the ovaries have been removed by the injection of fluids taken from the mature Graafian follicles of swine. Familiarity Avith this evidence has led the author to raise the question as to whether maternal behavior is similarly conditioned by hormones liberated at or near the time of parturition. Experimental observations on the rat would seem to show that maternal behavior is not aroused by any known factors of the external environment that are equally potent for non-pregnant and virgin females, but that it is in some way conditioned by physiological factors attendant upon pregnancy, parturition, and nursing of...
Rotational components of the v8 = 1, 2, and 3 and ground vibrational levels of CH3C15N for the frequency range 17–75 GHz

Abstract The microwave spectrum of methyl cyanide CH 3 C 15 N was studied for the v 8 = 3 vibrational state in the frequency range of 17 to 75 GHz. In addition, some rotational components for the ground, v 8 = 1 and 2 were remeasured and these results compared to those found in the literature. The frequencies of 42 components were measured and these frequencies were used to produce a constant set which can be used to predict overall frequencies of spectral components in the ground, v 8 = 1, 2 up to an accuracy of 100 KHz and those for v 8 = 3, 4 up to an accuracy of 150 KHz. Previously obtained experimental data, available from the literature, and our own data for the ground, v 8 = 1 and 2, and the new data for v 8 = 3 are presented and compared with the frequencies obtained from a comprehensive equation derived from perturbation techniques.
DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION IN DECISION MAKING BY EMPLOYEES IN AMERICAN CORPORATIONS

The article explores the viewpoints of executives in a midwestern industrial area regarding the participatory management practices. It was found that younger executives are more liberal. The result...
Auroral plasma transport processes in the presence of kV potential structures

We have simulated plasma transport processes in the presence of a quasi-two-dimensional current filament, that generated kV potential structure in the auroral region. The simulation consists of a set of one-dimensional flux tube simulations with different imposed time-dependent, field-aligned currents. The model uses the 16 moment system of equations and simultaneously solves coupled continuity and momentum equations and equations describing the transport along the magnetic field lines of parallel and perpendicular thermal energy and heat flows for each species. The lower end of the simulation is at an altitude of 800 km, in the collisional topside ionosphere, while the upper end is at 10 R(sub E) in the magnetosphere. The plasma consists of hot electrons and protons of magnetospheric origin and low-energy electrons, protons, and oxygen ions of ionospheric origin. The dynamical interaction of the individual current filaments with ionospheric and magnetospheric plasma generates a potential structure in the horizontal direction and kilovolt field-aligned potential drops along the field lines. The side-by-side display exhibits the evolution of the implied potential structure in the horizontial direction. In the presence of this potential structure and parallel electric field ionospheric plasma density is depleted and velocity is reduced, while density enhancement and increased velocity is observed in magnetospheric plasma. The ionospheric and magnetospheric electron temperatures increase below 2 R(sub E) due to magnetic mirror force on converging geomagnetic field lines. The primary cross-field motion produced by the horizontal E field (E x B drift) is perpendicular to both of the significant spatial directions and is thus ignorable in this geometry. The effects of other cross-field drift processes are discussed. The simulation thus provides insight into the dynamical evolution of two-dimensional potential structures driven by an imposed finite width, field-aligned current profile.
Glutamate-induced glutamine synthetase expression in retinal Muller cells after short-term ocular hypertension in the rat.

Purpose To determine the effect of intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation on glutamate-induced expression of glutamine synthetase (GS) in retinal Muller cells of rat eyes. Methods Six groups of three rats each were studied. Group I was a normal control group. In Group II, one eye received an intravitreal glutamate injection (75 nmoles) while the contralateral eye served as control. In Groups III and IV, IOP was raised in one eye by episcleral vein cauterization. Moderately elevated IOP was maintained for 1 day in Group III or 1 week in Group IV (35 +/- 1.9-45 +/- 5.2 mm Hg). An additional two groups of rats received bilateral intravitreal glutamate injections (75 nmoles) immediately (Group V), or 6 days (Group VI), after induction of IOP elevation in one eye. One day after glutamate injection the rats in all groups were killed, and the eyes enucleated and fixed. Retinas from left and right eyes of each animal were embedded together in LR White resin (Ted Pella, Redding, CA). Sections were processed for GS immunolabeling with antibodies to GS by two-stage immunogold labeling with silver enhancement. Images of labeled retinas from the two eyes were captured under identical light microscopic conditions and the GS immunoreactivity in Muller cells was compared between the left and right retinas in the same section by image analysis. An additional five rats were included in Group II and the retinas were analyzed by Western blot analysis to confirm immunohistochemical findings. Results Similar to the finding in the control group (Group I), the GS immunoreactivity of the left and right eyes of Group III and IV remained unchanged even though the right eyes in the two groups had elevation of IOP lasting for 24 hours and 1 week, respectively. However, GS levels were significantly increased by 40 +/- 5.7% in normotensive eyes 24 hours after intravitreal injection of glutamate (Group II). The rise in GS immunoreactivity was abolished in eyes with acute IOP elevation (Group V). In contrast, when the eyes were exposed to high IOP for 1 week (Group VI), the glutamate-induced increase in GS immunoreactivity was restored. Conclusions Elevated levels of vitreal glutamate can increase the expression of GS in retinal Muller cells. This increase was blocked if IOP was acutely elevated for 24 hours but was restored if IOP remained elevated for 1 week. This finding suggests that moderate elevation of IOP causes only short-term functional changes of glutamate metabolism (amidation) by retinal Muller cells. However, it is not known to what extent endogenous extracellular glutamate can regulate GS expression in normal eyes or in eyes with glaucoma.
Caring for Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Improved survival for pediatric oncology patients is a remarkable achievement of modern medicine. This success can be credited to the introduction of multimodality therapy and newer risk-based therapies developed and tested through national research protocols. With improved survival has come recognition of the many long-term effects of cancer and its treatment, such as vital organ dysfunction, subsequent malignancies, and psychosocial deficits. Childhood cancer survivors are vulnerable to adverse health outcomes which may not become apparent until years after therapy. These events may manifest well into adulthood when these individuals rarely return to their initial cancer center or seek preventive medical care. Risk-based follow-up can offer early detection and/or intervention and provides an opportunity to reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality. An understanding of the late effects of cancer therapy is increasingly important for the medical community, both generalists and specialists—adult and pediatric, to better care for the growing population of adult survivors of childhood cancer.
Structure function relationship among α-crystallin related small heat shock proteins

Abstract A sequence alignment is presented which permits the detection of the sequence and structural homology among α-crystallin subunits, αA and αB, and distantly related sHsps, MjHsp16·5 and wheat Hsp16·9. This alignment shows that homology extends beyond the α-crystallin domain. Variations in the polydisperse quaternary structure appear, in part, dependent upon the N-terminal 18 and 19 amino acids that are essential for subunit interactions in polydisperse sHsps. The hydrophobic sequence that follows these N-terminal amino acids shares a number of aromatic amino acids and has significant homology with MjHsp16·5. In the second exon of α-crystallin, sequence homology is concentrated in a region with chaperone and ANS binding sites. It is clear that the binding site for ANS and its derivative, bis-ANS, requires both positively charged amino acids and hydrophobic interactions. Therefore, its binding is not a true measure of hydrophobic surface exposure. The limited homology and secondary structure in the following C-terminal sequences is related to the pattern of association of other sHsp subunits and/or functional differences. Our study suggests that αA has evolved in the lens to chaperone exposed β-sheet edges of the βγ crystallins and their proteolytic fragments. Also, both time and a harsh environment such as that in the lens interior, β-sheet proteins would naturally generate β-sheet edges. The interaction between such edges results in insoluble, abnormal protein aggregation and in the lens, light scattering elements that cause cataract.
Some comments on the future of research in psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a focal point of the on-going debate between the operationally-empirically minded investigator and the seeker of intuitive understanding. The former often dismisses the insights of the latter as insufficiently validated or even as incapable of unambiguous validation. The latter, if he is a clinician, may fail to see how results statistically validated “at the level of confidence” can help him deal with unique and complex troubled persons, whom he is trying to help. The issues of the debate and the knotty dilemmas inherent in the subject-object dichotomy, as it relates to the psychotherapeutic situation, are discussed in this commentary.
Relationship Closeness and Trauma Narrative Detail: A Critical Analysis of Betrayal Trauma Theory

Betrayal Trauma Theory (BTT) holds that certain traumas, such as incest, should be uniquely categorized as betrayal trauma: a subcategory of trauma in which the violation of trust, within a close relationship, occurs in the context of a traumatic event. According to BTT, betrayal trauma results in either partial or complete traumatic amnesia because repression is adaptive when a victim depends on a perpetrator for physical or emotional needs. In a test of BTT, undergraduates screened for betrayal and non-betrayal trauma histories provided detailed accounts of these events. In order to account for threats to internal validity that are often overlooked by traumatic amnesia researchers, we also assessed factors known to compromise narrative detail. Consistent with BTT predictions, more betrayal was associated with less detailed trauma narratives. However, this relationship was no longer significant after controlling for survivor age, avoidance symptoms, gender and purposeful omission of detail. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thumbs Up Sign in Brain Death

Introduction Spinal reflexes can be seen in the setting of brain death. We present a new spinal reflex. We also review spinal movements in pediatric brain death and provide suggestions to distinguish them from movements generated by the brain.
Measuring and Recording Systems Used in Flight Tests of Aircraft

Flight tests and measurements are usually performed for newly built or modernised aircraft utilised by the Polish Armed Forces. In the course of flight tests the airborne equipment is also investigated. The main goal of the performed tests is to verify tactical performance and to identify technical parameters of aircraft and/or equipment under examination. The airborne experimental data is also applied to the aircraft flight dynamics modelling, subsequently used for the design and construction of a flight simulator. The equipment is usually arranged of the following components: sensors/measuring devices capable of converting physical parameters into optical, mechanical, or electrical signals (indicators, transmitters, sensors, transducers); conditioning systems - intermediary devices used to amplify and/or adjust any signal gained to some required value or form; recording and storing devices (data recorders, cameras, etc.); devices applied to the decoding and processing of the acquired data (decoders, computers). Some selected problems of aircraft flight tests will be discussed in the paper. A brief description of the applied experimental apparatus will be provided first. Next, the attention will be focused on the experimentally gathered data utilised in the identification of aircraft flight dynamics characteristics and on the data applied to the evaluation of selected design parameters.
Heterobifunctional modification of DNA for conjugation to solid surfaces

Many biosensors, DNA arrays, and next-generation DNA sequencing technologies need common methods for end modification of random DNA sequences generated from a sample of DNA. Surface immobilization of chemically modified DNA is often the first step in creating appropriate sensing platforms. We describe a simple technique for efficient heterobifunctional modification of arbitrary double-stranded DNA fragments with chosen chemical groups. The modification requires the use of short (10–20 base pairs) synthetic adaptors having desired terminal functional groups and installs known sequences, which can be used for hybridization of primers in the sequencing-by-synthesis approaches. The method, based on ligation under optimized conditions, is selective and provides high yields of the target heterobifunctional DNA product. An additional two-step procedure can be applied to select further for the desired bifunctionalized product using PCR amplification with a chemically modified primer. Both functional groups in the modified DNA are chemically active and can be used in surface immobilization of the DNA strands to create the surface of a biosensor or sequencing chip.
A hierarchical regionalization of Japanese prefectures using 1972 interprefectural migration flows

Slater P. B. (1976) A hierarchical regionalization of Japanese prefectures using 1972 interprefectural migration flows, Reg. Studies 10, 123–132. A methodology for utilizing an interregional transaction flow table to construct a hierarchical system of regions is presented. The square matrix is first adjusted by a biproportional procedure to possess uniform row and column sums. A series of increasingly sparse digraphs can then be associated with the table by raising threshold levels which are used to convert it into (0, 1) matrices. The strong components of these digraphs (Boolean adjacency matrices) can be hierarchically arranged. 1972 Japanese interprefectural migration data are examined in this manner. Several officially recognized regions (chiho)—Shikoku, Chugoku, Tohoku, and Kyushu—are readily distinguished, since they correspond to strong components which are stable over a wide range of thresholds. The chiho of Kanto, Chubu and Kinki are not identified, however. The Seto-Uchi area, San-in and several...
Cutaneous infections from coastal and marine bacteria

The coastal and marine environments contain a variety of potentially pathogenic bacteria that can cause cutaneous infection. While some of these infections are relatively minor, some may be life threatening, especially in patients with certain risk factors. The most common and serious of these aquatic-acquired infections are discussed, including 1) the marine vibrios, 2) Mycobacterium marinum, 3) erysipeloid and disseminated Erysipelothrix, and 4) Aeromonas hydrophila. Treatment of these is also discussed.
The effect of anxiety and depression on completion/withdrawal status in patients admitted to substance abuse detoxification program

A large proportion of patients entering substance abuse treatment carry psychiatric diagnoses, and some studies have found that those with psychopathology are more likely to withdraw before treatment is completed. We performed a prospective study of patients entering an inpatient substance abuse detoxification program to determine if the degree of anxiety and/or depression correlated with higher dropout rates. On entry to the unit, all patients were administered the Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression and Anxiety. Of the 148 patients studied, 97 (65.5%) completed treatment and 51 (34.5%) withdrew prematurely. There were no significant differences in Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating Scale scores between completers and withdrawers. This was true for the total study population, as well as for subgroups of patients based on primary drug abused (heroin or cocaine). Although anxiety and depression are common in substance abusers, we were unable to detect differences on validated anxiety and depression rating scales between those completing and those withdrawing from substance abuse detoxification.
Diagnosis and Management of Nasal Congestion: The Role of Intranasal Corticosteroids

Nasal congestion is considered the most bothersome of allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms and can significantly impair ability to function at work, home, and school. Effective management of AR-related nasal congestion depends on accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Many individuals with AR and AR-related congestion remain undiagnosed and do not receive prescription medication. However, new tools intended to improve the diagnosis of nasal congestion have been developed and validated. Intranasal corticosteroids (INSs) are recommended as first-line therapy for patients with moderate-to-severe AR and also when nasal congestion is a prominent symptom. Double blind, randomized clinical trials have demonstrated greater efficacy of INSs versus placebo, antihistamines, or montelukast for relief of all nasal symptoms, especially congestion. Patient adherence to treatment also affects outcomes, and this may be influenced by patient preferences for the sensory attributes of an individual drug. Increased awareness of the effects of AR-related nasal congestion, the efficacy and safety of available pharmacotherapies, and barriers to adherence may improve clinical outcomes.
Forecasting renewable energy production in the US

Purpose – This paper aims to present a forecast for renewable energy production in the USA. Growth curves are used to conduct the forecasts.Design/methodology/approach – The analysis is based upon a literature review, supplemented by collection of secondary data. The study then focuses on applying the Pearl growth curve.Findings – The authors' results show that biomass energy production is growing the fastest followed by geothermal and wind. Additionally, the forecast for solar energy production shows little to no growth over the next two decades.Research limitations/implications – If the US government hopes to achieve its goals in renewable energy, considerable funding and incentives will have to be put forth to accelerate the growth of renewable energy. Since the biomass technology is already growing nicely it makes sense to put the additional resources behind the other three technologies to close the 10.3 percent gap being forecasted. The government also needs to put more funding into dual renewable pl...
DeFries–Fulker and Pearson–Aitken Model-fitting Analyses of Reading Performance Data from Selected and Unselected Twin Pairs

Although a comparison of concordance rates for deviant scores in identical and fraternal twin pairs can provide prima facie evidence for a genetic etiology, information is not fully utilized when continuous measures are analyzed in a dichotomous manner. Thus, DeFries and Fulker (Behav Genet 15:467-473, 1985; Acta Genet Med Gemellol, 37:205-216, 1988) developed a regression-based methodology (DF analysis) to assess genetic etiology in both selected and unselected twin samples. While the DF analysis is a very versatile and relatively powerful statistical approach, it is not easily extended to the multivariate case. In contrast, structural equation models may be readily extended to analyze multivariate data sets (Neale and Cardon, Methodology for genetic studies of twins and families, 1992). However, such methodologies may yield biased estimates of additive genetic, shared environmental, and non-shared environmental influences when multivariate models are fitted to selected twin data. Therefore, the Pearson-Aitken (PA) selection formula (Aitken, Proc Edinburgh Math Soc B, 4:106-110, 1934) was used to analyze reading performance data from twins with reading difficulties (selected sample) and a population of normally-achieving twin pairs (control sample). As a comparison, DF models were also fitted to these same data sets. In general, resulting estimates of additive genetic, shared environmental, and non-shared environmental influences were similar when the DF and PA models were fitted to the data. However, the PA selection formula may be more readily generalized to the multivariate case.
Engineering a catalytic metal binding site into a calcium-independent phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C leads to enhanced stereoselectivity.

Eukaryotic phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase Cs (PI-PLCs) utilize calcium as a cofactor during catalysis, whereas prokaryotic PI-PLCs use a spatially conserved guanidinium group from Arg69. In this study, we aimed to construct a metal-dependent mutant of a bacterial PI-PLC and characterize the catalytic role of the metal ion, seeking an enhanced understanding of the functional differences between these two positively charged moieties. The following results indicate that a bona fide catalytic metal binding site was created by the single arginine-to-aspartate mutation at position 69: (1) The R69D mutant was activated by Ca 2 + , and the activation was specific for R69D, not for other mutants at this position. (2) Titration of R69D with Ca 2 + , monitored by 1 5 N- 1 H HSQC (heteronuclear single quantum coherence) NMR, showed that addition of Ca 2 + to R69D restores the environment of the catalytic site analogous to that attained by the WT enzyme. (3) Upon Ca 2 + activation, the thio effect of the Sp-isomer of the phosphorothioate analogue (k O /k S p = 4.4 x 10 5 ) approached a value similar to that of the WT enzyme, suggesting a structural and functional similarity between the two positively charged moieties (Arg69 and Asp69-Ca 2 + ). The Rp-thio effect (k O /k R p = 9.4) is smaller than that of the WT enzyme by a factor of 5. Consequently, R69D-Ca 2 + displays higher stereoselectivity (k R p /k S p = 47 000) than WT (k R p / k S p = 7600). (4) Results from additional mutagenesis analyses suggest that the Ca 2 + binding site is comprised of side chains from Asp33, Asp67, Asp69, and Glu117. Our studies provide new insight into the mechanism of metal-dependent and metal-independent PI-PLCs.
IBM's Santa Teresa Laboratory: architectural design for program development

The reaction to the office environment was highly favorable. The increased work surface, the work surface arrangement, and flexibility in arranging the office components appeared to be key elements. The programmers' comments indicated that the space standards, as tested in the mock-ups, satisfied their operational criteria.
DNA index and ploidy distinguish normal human parathyroids from parathyroid adenomas and primary hyperplastic parathyroids

Background. The goal of this study was to identify factors that might aid in diagnosis and intraoperative management of hyperparathyroidism. Methods. We analyzed biopsy specimens of 242 parathyroids from 159 patients by use of flow cytometry and image cytometry (ICM) for DNA index (DI), defined as the content of nuclear DNA compared with that expected for a DNA diploid standard, for proliferative index (PI), and for ploidy (diploid versus aneuploid or tetraploid). Results. True normal and normal parathyroids from patients with solitary adenomas were uniformly diploid. Abnormal ploidy (aneuploidy or tetraploidy) was identified frequently in adenomas and occasionally in hyperplasias with the exception that multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) biopsy specimens were uniformly diploid. DI for adenomas was similar to that for hyperplasias, and DI of both was higher than for normal glands. ICM-DI correlated positively with flow cytometry-DI and patient age and inversely with serum parathyroid hormone. PI was relatively low in all groups but was higher for hyperplasias versus normal parathyroids from patients with solitary adenomas and MEN versus non-MEN. PI correlated inversely with patient age. Conclusions. DI by ICM differentiates normal from abnormal parathyroids. DI might influence extent of resection in two- and three-gland hyperplasia and selection of the most appropriate gland for autografting and cryopreservation in patients with four-gland hyperplasia.
ON THE NATURE OF INTERLANGUAGE SYSTEMS

This paper argues that the Interlanguage Hypothesis, as it is currently stated, lacks clear definitions of some of its most important characteristics. The central characteristics of ILs are examined. It is suggested that interlanguages (ILs) are natural languages, in the obvious sense, but that their grammar is peculiar in being permeable. This permeability of ILs explains why learners can transfer grammatical properties from their native language and why they can generalize or otherwise distort target language properties in an effort to communicate. Accepting this view of ILs forces the researcher to gather specific and copious data to support the hypotheses which may be proposed concerning the grammatical intuitions of any IL speaker. The relevance of this proposal to research strategies and the advantages of research with a more explicit notion of ILs are discussed.
Volume-rendered, three-dimensional echocardiographi determination of the size, shape, and position of atrial septal defects: Validation in an in vitro model

Abstract Accurate evaluation of atrial septal defect (ASD) size and shape is very important for the selection of patients for transcatheter occlusion. The ability of volume-rendered, three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) in displaying ASDs in a dynamic mode has been demonstrated; however, its accuracy in sizing ASDs is unknown. To assess this, we performed 3DE of 10 explanted pig hearts in which ASDs of various locations, sizes, and shapes had been experimentally created. From en face 3DE views of the atrial septum containing the defects, major and minor diameters of the defect were measured by a blinded observer, and these data were compared to direct anatomic measurements. The correlations between 3DE and anatomy for the major and minor ASD diameters were y = 0.83 x + 3.4 ( r = 0.97, p y = 0.92 x + 1.3 ( r = 0.92, p y = 1.06 x − 0.052, r = 0.91, p
Enhanced nanoscale catalyst precursor powders generated using a flow-through hydrothermal process

A novel flow-through hydrothermal process, termed the Rapid Thermal Decomposition of precursors in Solution (RTDS), has been used to generate large quantities of ultra-fine, nano-crystalline hematite ({alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}), 6-line ferrihydrite (5Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}{center_dot}9H{sub 2}O) and ferric oxyhydroxysulfate powders. The heterogeneous catalytic activity of these powders towards C-C bond scission in the model compound naphthyl bibenzylmethane and in the first-stage liquefaction of Blind Canyon seam coal was investigated. The effects of the crystalline phase and the agglomerate size of these powders on their catalytic activity are reported.
On a New Approach to SNR Estimation of BPSK Signals

Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) information is required in many communication receivers and their proper operation is, to a large extent, related to the SNR estimation techniques they employ. Most of the available SNR estimators are based on approaches that either require large observation length or suffer from high computation complexity. In this paper, we propose a low complexity, yet accurate SNR estimation technique that is sufficient to yield meaningful estimation for short data records. It is shown that our estimator is fairly close to the (CRLB) for high SNR values. Numerical results also confirm that, in terms of convergence speed, the proposed technique outperforms the popular moment based method, M2M4. Keywords—digital communication, statistical analysis, AWGN channels.
A Procedure for Surveying Personal Networks

The application of network analysis to certain issues in sociology requires measurement of individuals' personal networks. These issues generally involve the impact of structural locations on persons' social lives. One such case is the Northern California Community Study of the personal consequences of residential environments. This article describes and illustrates the methodology we have developed for studying personal networks by mass survey. It reviews the conceptual problems in network definition and measurement, assesses earlier efforts, presents our technique, and illustrates its applications.
Human infrastructure as process and effect: its impact on individual scientists' participation in international collaboration

We adopt the concept of human infrastructure as our analytic lens to examine two high energy physics collaborations. Our analysis goes beyond the macro level of virtual organizations to include the human infrastructures in scientists' home institutions and personal networks. While previous literature tends to focus on the macro level of analysis of management and coordination within virtual organizations, our study concentrates on individual scientists, especially junior scientists' gains and challenges when participating in international collaboration. We compare the experiences of scientists from lesser-resourced and well-resourced nations to examine how specific components of basic social structures enable or impede individual scientists' participation in international collaboration. Identifying the social mechanisms that constrain scientists will enable us to better understand how to build human infrastructure to facilitate individual scientists' participation in collaboration.
Synthesis, properties and applications of titanium aluminides

Attractive elevated-temperature properties and low density make the titanium aluminides very interesting for both engine and airframe applications, particularly in the aerospace industry. The challenge to the materials scientist is to maintain these characteristics while building-in “forgiveness”. The basic phase diagram and crystal structure of both the Ti3Al and TiAl phases are reviewed, followed by a consideration of chemistry-processing-microstructure-deformation/fracture-mechanical property relationships in monolithic material. Conventional and innovative synthesis methods are presented, including use of hydrogen as a temporary alloying element. Composite concepts as a method to enhance not only “forgiveness” but also elevated-temperature behaviour are discussed. Environmental effects are evaluated prior to consideration of present and projected applications of both monolithic and composite material. It is concluded that while the titanium aluminides in monolithic form can be used now in non-demanding applications, much further research and development is required before this material class can be used in critical applications, especially in composite concepts.
Insights into the initiation of TCR signaling

The initiation of T cell antigen receptor signaling is a key step that can result in T cell activation and the orchestration of an adaptive immune response. Early events in T cell receptor signaling can distinguish between agonist and endogenous ligands with exquisite selectivity, and show extraordinary sensitivity to minute numbers of agonists in a sea of endogenous ligands. We review our current knowledge of models and crucial molecules that aim to provide a mechanistic explanation for these observations. Building on current understanding and a discussion of unresolved issues, we propose a molecular model for initiation of T cell receptor signaling that may serve as a useful guide for future studies.
Alkene—glycol interconversion with technetium and rhenium oxo complexes

Abstract The trioxotechnetium(VII) complexes TcO 3 Cl(AA) (AA = phen, bpy, 5-NO 2 -phen, 3,4,7,8-Me 4 -phen) cleanly oxidize olefins (C 2 R 4 ) in solution at 22°C, forming in high yields the corresponding oxotechnetium(V) diolate complexes, TcOCl(OCR 2 CR 2 O)(AA). The complexes have been characterized by 1 H NMR, IR, elemental analysis, and fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry. The free diols isolated by hydrolysis of these diolate complexes with HCl were shown by capillary gas chromatography to represent syn addition of the two hydroxyl groups across the double bond. The related rhenium complex, ReOCl(OCH 2 CH 2 O)(phen) undergoes the reverse reaction when thermalized, releasing ethylene and producing ReO 3 Cl(phen).
Trace-driven system-level power evaluation of system-on-a-chip peripheral cores

Our earlier work for fast evaluation of power consumption of general cores in a system-on-a-chip described techniques that involved isolating high-level instructions of a core, measuring gate-level power consumption per instruction, and then annotating a system-level simulation model with the obtained data. In this work, we describe a method for speeding up the evaluation further, through the use of instruction traces and trace simulators for every core, not just microprocessor cores. Our method shows noticeable speedups at an acceptable loss of accuracy. We show that reducing trace sizes can speed up the method even further. The speedups allow for more extensive system-level power exploration and hence better optimization.
The potential role of rapamycin in pediatric transplantation as observed from adult studies.

Kahan BD. The potential role of rapamycin in pediatric transplantation as observed from adult studies. Pediatr Transplantation 1999: 3: 175–180. © Munksgaard, 1999 Abstract: Although pediatric patient and renal graft survival rates have shown marked improvements during the past decade, the persistent toxicities of immunosuppressive drugs and chronic allograft attrition remain major obstacles in transplant therapy. Results in adult patients suggest that complete steroid withdrawal is possible in the majority of recipients under treatment with a cyclosporin A–rapamycin (CsA–RAPA) regimen. Furthermore, preliminary studies suggest that a marked reduction in the dose of CsA may be possible under the umbrella of RAPA coverage. The gain in immunosuppressive efficacy afforded by RAPA has not only been obtained without an increased morbidity owing to infectious or neoplastic causes, but also with the potential for reducing the incidence and/or progression of chronic rejection.
Stability of DNA duplexes containing hypoxanthine (inosine): gas versus solution phase and biological implications.

A series of 9-mer DNA duplexes of the sequence 5′-d(GGTTXTTGG)-3′/3′-d(CCAAYAACC)-5′, where the central base X or Y = adenine (A), guanine (G), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and hypoxanthine (H), have...
Plane wave spectrum scattering analysis of near-field obstacle effects on directive antenna patterns

A plane wave spectrum scattering analysis of the effects of a near-zone obstacle on the pattern performance of a directive antenna is discussed. The free-space azimuth monopulse antenna is characterized by its sum and difference mode plane wave spectra, and a computed plane wave scattering dyad is used to characterize the scattering by a metallic right circular cylinder when it is excited by the incident antenna spectra. An efficient computer algorithm has been developed to compute the far-zone scattered and total fields for the antenna/cylinder system. Extensive experimental data have been obtained, and the patterns calculated using the present analysis are in agreement with the measured data.
Components of Spiritual Nursing Care from the Nurse's Perspective:

The purpose of this exploratory study was to discover the components of spiritual nursing care as described by nurses who provide such care. The phenomenon was investigated through indepth intervie...