cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of Transmission Intensity on the Accuracy of Genotyping To Distinguish Recrudescence from New Infection in Antimalarial Clinical Trials

Antimalarial clinical trials use genotyping techniques to distinguish new infection from recrudescence. In areas of high transmission, the accuracy of genotyping may be compromised due to the high number of infecting parasite strains. We compared the accuracies of genotyping methods, using up to six genotyping markers, to assign outcomes for two large antimalarial trials performed in areas of Africa with different transmission intensities. We then estimated the probability of genotyping misclassification and its effect on trial results. At a moderate-transmission site, three genotyping markers were sufficient to generate accurate estimates of treatment failure. At a high-transmission site, even with six markers, estimates of treatment failure were 20% for amodiaquine plus artesunate and 17% for artemether-lumefantrine, regimens expected to be highly efficacious. Of the observed treatment failures for these two regimens, we estimated that at least 45% and 35%, respectively, were new infections misclassified as recrudescences. Increasing the number of genotyping markers improved the ability to distinguish new infection from recrudescence at a moderate-transmission site, but using six markers appeared inadequate at a high-transmission site. Genotyping-adjusted estimates of treatment failure from high-transmission sites may represent substantial overestimates of the true risk of treatment failure.
Hepatitis B and pregnancy

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains an important cause of chronic liver disease worldwide and affects a disproportionate number of individuals from areas of high endemicity, where perinatal transmission is the predominant mode of infection. Introduction of a safe and effective hepatitis B vaccine has led to universal infant vaccination and resulted in a reduced rate of perinatal HBV transmission from infected mothers. With appropriate hepatitis B vaccination and passive immunoprophylaxis using hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG), infants born to mothers with HBV infection have perinatal transmission rates between 5% and 10%. Management of pregnant women with chronic HBV infection is aimed primarily at counseling regarding maternal risk of infection, rates of vertical transmission, and preparation for neonatal vaccination. Limited data suggest that intrauterine infection may occur at higher rates in mothers with high serum HBV DNA levels, leading to failure of standard passive-active immunoprophylaxis with HBIG and vaccine. Thus, treatment with an oral HBV antiviral agent in the third trimester may be considered after discussing the risks and benefits of therapy with the mother.
Field calibration of soil-core microcosms: Fate of a genetically altered rhizobacterium

Microcosms containing intact soil-cores are a potential tool for assessing the risks of the release of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) to the environment. Before microcosms become a standard assessment tool, however, they must first be calibrated to ensure that they adequately simulate key parameters in the field. Four systems were compared: intact soil-core microcosms located in the laboratory at ambient temperature and in a growth chamber with temperature fluctuations that simulated average conditions in the field, field lysimeters, and field plots. These four systems were inoculated with rifampicin-resistantPseudomonas sp. and planted to winter wheat. Populations of thePseudomonas sp. in soil decreased more rapidly at ambient temperature, but population size at the three-leaf stage of wheat growth was the same in all four systems. Populations of thePseudomonas sp. on the rhizoplane of wheat were the same at the three-leaf stage in all four systems, and colonization with depth at the final boot stage-sampling was also similar. In general, microcosms incubated at ambient temperature in the laboratory or in the growth chamber were similar to those in the field with respect to survival of and colonization of the rhizoplane by the introducedPseudomonas sp.
Solution of constrained generalized transportation problems using the pivot and probe algorithm

Abstract In this paper we use a specialized version of our pivot and probe algorithm to solve generalized transportation problems with side constraints. The dual of an m × n generalized transportation problem with t side constrainst is a linear program with m + n + t variables and up to m × n constraints. We solve the dual problem using the probe operation to select only the most important constraints to consider. We present computational experience on problems of sizes up to 180 × 180, having various degrees of density and having as many as 10 side constraints. It was found that for a given size and density, problems become harder to solve as the number of side constraints increases. Also, for a fixed number of side constraints, the solution difficulty increases with size and density. We found that our method was able to solve problems of the quoted sizes relatively quickly, with relatively few pivots and without using basis reinversion.
Home visits to improve adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy: a randomized controlled trial.

Background: Few rigorously designed studies have documented the efficacy of interventions to improve medication adherence among patients prescribed highly active antiretroviral therapy. Data are needed to justify the use of limited resources for these programs. Methods: A 2-arm, randomized, controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of a community-based, home-visit intervention to improve medication adherence. Participants were 171 HIV-infected adults prescribed a minimum of 3 antiretroviral agents. The majority had a past or current history of substance abuse. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive home visits for 1 year or usual care. Medication adherence was assessed with Medication Event Monitoring stem caps at 3-month intervals from randomization through 3 months after the conclusion of the intervention. Results: A larger proportion of subjects in the intervention group demonstrated adherence greater than 90% compared with the control group at each time point after baseline. The difference over time was statistically significant (Extended Mantel-Haenszel test: 5.80, P = 0.02). A statistically significant intervention effect on HIV RNA level or CD4 cell count was not seen, but there was a statistically significant association between greater than 90% adherence and an undetectable HIV RNA over time (P < 0.03). Conclusion: Home visits from a nurse and a community worker were associated with medication adherence greater than 90% among a cohort of socially vulnerable people living with HIV/AIDS in northeastern United States.
Basic concepts in three-part quantitative assessments of undiscovered mineral resources

Since 1975, mineral resource assessments have been made for over 27 areas covering 5×106 km2 at various scales using what is now called the three-part form of quantitative assessment. In these assessments, (1) areas are delineated according to the types of deposits permitted by the geology,(2) the amount of metal and some ore characteristics are estimated using grade and tonnage models, and (3) the number of undiscovered deposits of each type is estimated.
Lack of growth hormone-releasing activity of (pyro)Glu-Ser-Gly-NH2.

Abstract Youdaev et al. (1) reported that (pyro)Glu-Ser-Gly-NH 2 isolated from bovine hypothalami or made synthetically stimulates the release of growth hormone (GH). Therefore, we synthesized the tripeptide and tested it in several in vivo and in vitro assay systems for GH releasing activity. Our results demonstrate that (pyro)Glu-Ser-Gly-NH 2 does not stimulate the release of immunoreactive GH from rat pituitaries in vitro in doses of 0.1–1000 nanog/ml. Similarly, (pyro)Glu-Ser-Gly-NH 2 , injected intravenously into rats in doses of 1μg and 10μg/rat or infused into a hypophysial portal vessel in doses of 0.01 μg and 0.1 μg/rat did not increase serum GH levels as measured by radioimmunoassay. When this tripeptide was injected intravenously in doses of 500 μg into sheep it did not raise plasma GH levels. These results demonstrate that under the conditions of this investigation (pyro)Glu-Ser-Gly-NH 2 does not display any GH-releasing activity.
Ethnography and Experiment in Social Psychological Theory Building: Tactics for Integrating Qualitative Field Data with Quantitative Lab Data

Abstract While both sociologists and organizational theorists have incorporated qualitative data into theory building, contemporary social psychologists have resisted this trend. This resistance may be the product of long-standing perceptions of the discipline of social psychology that equate it with controlled experimentation. Yet, this was not always the case. Many respected social psychologists, including Muzafer Sherif, Edgar Schein, and Leon Festinger, relied on qualitative data from real-world contexts to ground theory building. Following their example, we discuss the possibilities of reviving social psychological approaches to theory building that integrate qualitative field data with quantitative data collected in laboratory experiments. We first justify why qualitative data are important to social psychological theory building by examining some of the strengths and weaknesses that have been demonstrated in other research domains. We then use several “classic” social psychological studies to illustrate specific tactics for integrating qualitative data with traditional experimental data in social psychological research. These examples demonstrate the flexibility and synergies of combining qualitative and quantitative data. They also suggest that social psychological theory building may benefit from a “return to our roots” and an embrace of qualitative data.
Global Symmetry-Breaking Bifurcation for the van der Waals–Cahn–Hilliard Model on the Sphere S^{2}

We study global symmetry-breaking equilibria of the van der Waals–Cahn–Hilliard phase-field model on the sphere \(S^{2}\subset \mathbb{R }^{3}\). Our primary motivation comes from observed two-phase phenomena for lipid-bilayer vesicles. Although we ignore the elastic deformability of the latter, this work represents an important first step in understanding global symmetry-breaking in such models. We combine symmetry methods with global bifurcation analysis for basic existence results, and then establish a-priori bounds and in some cases, nodal properties, to glean detailed information about global solution branches.
Orexins in rat dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus potently stimulate gastric motor function.

Orexins regulate food intake, arousal, and the sleep-wake cycle. They are synthesized by neurons in the lateral hypothalamus and project to autonomic areas in the hindbrain. Orexin A applied to the...
Analysis of glass ionomer cement with use of scanning electron microscopy.

Abstract In this study, scanning electron microscopy and x-ray microanalysis techniques were used to examine a silver-reinforced glass ionomer cement. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate surface topography and microstructure. Microcracking and a bimodal pore distribution were observed. The cement consisted of unreacted glass particles surrounded by a silica gel “halo” and embedded in an organic salt matrix. Back-scattered electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy detected discrete clusters of silver atoms within the material. Other elements, such as calcium and aluminum, were dispersed homogeneously. Wavelength dispersive spectroscopy was used to detect fluoride, which also appeared to be homogeneously distributed. Electron microscopy and x-ray microanalysis techniques could prove valuable in clarifying the microstructure and fluoride release mechanism of glass ionomer cements. Refinement of some aspects, including sample preparation, will be necessary to obtain consistently reliable results.
Simultaneous multi-wavelength-band optical frequency domain imaging for spectroscopic investigations

A novel method of simultaneous multi-wavelength-band common-path optical frequency domain imaging is proposed for spectroscopic applications. Simultaneous multi-band wavelength tuning can be performed by using multiple fiber-ring cavities with corresponding optical semiconductor amplifier as their gain mediums and narrowband optical filters with a single polygonal scanner for synchronization. A simultaneous 1310/1550 dual-band swept laser source is constructed as a proof concept prototype. Broadband 1310/1550 wavelength-division multiplexing is used for coupling two wavelengths into a common-path single-mode GRIN-lensed fiber probe to form a dual-band common-path optical frequency domain imaging. Simultaneous imaging at 1310 and 1550 nm is achieved by using a depth ratio correction method. This technique allows potential for in vivo endoscopic high-speed functional optical frequency domain imaging with high quality spectroscopic contrast with low computational costs. On the other hand, the common path configuration is able to suppress common mode noise and potentially implement high stability quantitative phase measurements.
Voluntariness of association as a moderator of the importance of procedural and distributive justice.

Tyler (1986) proposed that procedural justice was a more important factor in the evaluation of institutions when an individual's association with same was forced or compelled than when the association was voluntary. Unfortunately, Tyler's induction of a moderator effect was based upon questionable interpretations of data, and no deductive attempt was made to explain the phenomenon in theoretical terms. The present study confirmed the moderator effect of voluntariness of association by examining the patterns of correlations between institutional evaluations and procedural justice under two conditions—for members and non-members of open shop (voluntary association) and agency shop (compelled association) unions. The concept of personal control was used to account for the moderator
An office-based approach to the diagnosis and management of osteonecrosis.

The widespread use of bisphosphonates and other antiresorptive agents asan inhibitor ofbone resorption isdirectly attributable to their efficacy in improving the quality of life for patients with metastatic bone cancer and osteoporosis. As a potent suppressor of osteoclast activity, bisphosphonates slow the remodeling process and increase bone mineral density, thereby reducing the risk of fracture inwomenwith osteopenia and osteoporosis. All bisphosphonates currently approved for osteoporosis treatment have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of osteoporotic fractures. The efficacy of intravenous bisphosphonates in decreasing osteoclast-mediated lysis of bone in disease secondary to multiple myeloma, advanced breast cancer, and other solid tumors has beenwell established in clinical trials. Therefore, intravenous bisphosphonates are frequently administered to patientswithosteolyticmetastases onamonthlybasis, especially if there is a risk for significant morbidity. Based on clinical practice guidelines established by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the use of bisphosphonates is considered the standard of care for treatment of (1) moderate to severe hypercalcemia associatedwithmalignancy; and (2) metastatic osteolytic lesions associated with breast cancer and multiple myeloma in conjunction with antineoplastic chemotherapeutic agents. The Food and Drug Administration has broadened the indications for intravenous bisphosphonates to include bone metastases from any solid tumor. In 2005 it was estimated that more than 2.8 million patients with cancer worldwide had received intravenous bisphosphonates since their introduction to the marketplace. Denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva) is a new antiresorptive agent that exists as a fully humanized antibody against RANK-L. As such, it is a profound inhibitor of osteoclast function and bone remodeling.
Continuous Phase Transitions for Dynamical Systems

We study the asymptotic expansion of the topological pressure of one–parameter families of potentials at a point of non-analyticity. The singularity is related qualitatively and quantitatively to non–Gaussian limit laws and to slow decay of correlations with respect to the equilibrium measure.
High-Power Combline Diplexer for Space

A high-power $L$ -band combline diplexer to be used in a National Aeronautics and Space Administration/Jet Propulsion Laboratory space mission has been designed and tested for multipaction. The radar path was required to have peak power handling of 450 W with 24.25-W average. The radar filter was partially filled with low-loss dielectric material to protect it against multipaction. The device was tested with input power up to 1800–W peak with no evidence of multipaction while having excellent RF peformance, including less than 0.20-dB insertion loss over temperature.
Dynamic intravascular pressures in the microvessels of the frog lung.

Dynamic intravascular pressures measured in small vessels of frog lung using micropressure transducer inserted into vessel lumen
Lightweight negative GRIN lens fabrication via rapid prototyping for radio applications

Summary form only given. In this paper, we report on the design, rapid fabrication, and evaluation of a flat lens with a negative gradient refractive index consisting of self-supporting 3D metamaterial elements. Recent work has shown that metamaterial structures with self-supporting architectures suffer from minimal losses compared to planar metamaterial elements that require extraneous dielectric material substrates. Low loss characteristics make multilayer devices with quality performance parameters possible. This was exemplified in a recent report on rapidly fabricated plano-concave lenses using negative refractive index 3D metamaterial. Both simulations and experiments showed that the lightweight lens benefitted from low loss and high gain in the focal region across the 10-12 GHz band. More importantly, it highlighted the fabrication flexibility afforded by rapid prototyping technology, which suggests that complex geometries and devices are readily accessible, which portends to the further actualization of metamaterial performance benefits. In order to transition from a curved lens profile of a homogenous medium to a planar lens with a graded index, the following steps were taken. First, a gradient refractive index profile was derived using geometric optics for a flat lens with a focal distance similar to other homogenous lenses. The refractive index profile was then discretized so it could be populated with metamaterial elements with matching refractive index parameters. To build a library of metamaterial geometries and their corresponding material parameters, a parametric sweep of different S-ring unit cell dimensions was performed. The refractive indices of the varied structured were retrieved using standard procedures. By arranging the S-ring structures accordingly, the gradient index profile was well approximated. Care was taken to ensure the overall structure was mechanically viable to avoid complications during fabrication. The performance of the lens was studied using geometric optics and physical optics. It was found that for an aperture of small electrical size, the focal points that result from geometric and physical optics appear at different locations. The discrepancy between these two methods was found to be different for lenses made from positive index materials and negative index materials.
Determination of Growth Rates by Tetracycline Labeling in Guinea Pig Palates

A surface planimeter was used to assess tetracycline-labeled regions of undecalcified sections of the palates of ten male guinea pigs. High to low values for labeled bone were found in the palatal alveolar process, the median palatine suture, and the basal bone, respectively. Also present were statistically significant age-associated differences.
Methionine 286 in transmembrane domain 3 of the GABAA receptor β subunit controls a binding cavity for propofol and other alkylphenol general anesthetics

gamma-Aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptors are an important target for general anesthetics in the central nervous system. Site-directed mutagenesis techniques have identified amino acid residues that are important for the positive modulation of GABA(A) receptors by general anesthetics. In the present study, we investigate the role of an amino acid residue in transmembrane (TM) domain 3 of the GABA(A) receptor beta(2) subunit for modulation by the general anesthetic 2,6-diisopropylphenol (propofol). Mutation of methionine 286 to tryptophan (M286W) in the beta(2) subunit abolished potentiation of GABA responses by propofol but did not affect direct receptor activation by propofol in the absence of GABA. In contrast, substitution of methionine 286 by alanine, cysteine, glutamate, lysine, phenylalanine, serine, or tyrosine was permissive for potentiation of GABA responses and direct activation by propofol. Using propofol analogs of varying molecular size, we show that the beta(2)(M286W) mutation resulted in a decrease in the 'cut-off' volume for propofol analog molecules to enhance GABA responses at GABA(A) alpha(1)beta(2)gamma(2s) receptors. This suggests that mutation of M286 in the GABA(A) beta(2) subunit alters the dimensions of a 'binding pocket' for propofol and related alkylphenol general anesthetics.
Arsenic inhibits NF-kappaB-mediated gene transcription by blocking IkappaB kinase activity and IkappaBalpha phosphorylation and degradation.

The inflammatory cytokine, TNF-alpha, induces IL-8 gene transcription via a mechanism involving proteasome-mediated IkappaBalpha degradation and NF-kappaB activation. Here, we investigated whether arsenic, which has been shown to inhibit the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, could inhibit TNF-alpha-mediated increases in IL-8 expression. Using RT-PCR, we show that the addition of TNF-alpha to human bronchial epithelial (BEAS 2B) or embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells resulted in increased steady-state levels of IL-8 mRNA. This was preceded by a rapid decrease in cellular IkappaBalpha levels, as demonstrated by Western analysis, and an increase in nuclear levels of NF-kappaB, as demonstrated by gel shift analysis. Further demonstrating the activation of NF-kappaB, TNF-alpha induced the transcription of a NF-kappaB-dependent reporter gene. Exposing the cells to 500 microM arsenite, prior to adding TNF-alpha, completely inhibited IkappaBalpha degradation, NF-kappaB translocation, NF-kappaB-dependent gene transcription, and transcription of the endogenous gene for IL-8. In comparison with the proteasome inhibitor MG-132, which does not affect the phosphorylation and ubiquitination of IkappaBalpha, arsenite inhibited the phosphorylation of IkappaBalpha. Furthermore, arsenite directly blocked the activity of IKK, the kinase responsible for IkappaBalpha phosphorylation. These studies demonstrate that high levels of arsenic may inhibit NF-kappaB-mediated gene transcription by specifically blocking IKK activity, thereby limiting the phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of the NF-kappaB inhibitor, IkappaBalpha.
Delusion of parasitosis or chronic tactile hallucinosis: Hypothesis about their brain physiopathology

The abnormal belief of having the skin infested by parasites is a syndrome with different etiologies. Approximately 12% of cases are induced by another patient with the same syndrome. In noninduced cases, two physiopathological brain mechanisms have been proposed: a delusion, or a primary abnormal tactile sensation with a secondary delusional elaboration. These two hypotheses have been characterized by Berrios as cognitive and sensorialist approaches, respectively. Although modern literature defines this syndrome as a delusion, early literature, particularly German, described both approaches, and even emphasized the sensorialist approach, classifying it as a chronic tactile hallucinosis. A thorough review of the literature suggests both mechanisms may be possible.
Observability of nonlinear differential algebraic systems

We define the smooth observability of nonlinear DAE systems and give sufficient conditions for this property to hold locally in a neighborhood of a solution. The matrix rank conditions for observability are verifiable by a combination of symbolic and numerical linear algebra computations. These conditions generalize conditions that have appeared in the literature for observability of linear time-varying DAE systems. We indicate how the main result is potentially useful in studying a system's zero dynamics. Some relevant rank properties of Hessenberg DAE systems are established.
Absorption and Distribution of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Ingested by the Chick

Abstract ETHYLENEDIAMINETETRAACETIC acid (EDTA), also known as Sequestrene and Versene 100, is presently the object of considerable study in the nutrition field. O’Dell and Savage (1957) were among the first to report that the addition of certain chelating agents to chick diets appeared to make several mineral cations more available after previously being tied up by protein sources. Similar findings were reported by Scott and Zeigler (1963) and David et al. (1962). Darwish (1963) administered an oral dose of C14 labeled EDTA to laying hens. Results indicated that EDTA was probably absorbed as complexes of several minerals during the early period of the experiment. Darwish and Kratzer (1965) observed that EDTA was absorbed by chickens. It was noted that absorption of EDTA was rapid as activity was found in the blood as quickly as 45 minutes after a radioactive dose of EDTA-2-C14 was administered. Approximately 45 to 47 percent of the…
Influence of the carbon nanotube probe tilt angle on the effective probe stiffness and image quality in tapping-mode atomic force microscopy.

Previous studies have shown that when using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as tapping-mode AFM probes, their tilt angle with respect to vertical (denoted φ) must be close to 0° to obtain high-quality images and that very poor images are obtained for φ > 30°. Here we present a quantitative theoretical investigation of the effect of φ on tapping-mode AFM imaging for single-wall and multiwall nanotube (SWNT and MWNT, respectively) probes of diameters 3.4−5.5 nm and aspect ratio 7.5, which have been found ideal for imaging via TEM. Using molecular and classical dynamics, we investigate the effect of φ on CNT probe stiffness (quantified through the maximum gradient of the tip−sample interaction force) and show that it decreases linearly with increasing φ, becoming negligible at around φ ≈ 40°, thus confirming the conclusions of previous studies. We find that MWNT probe stiffness is proportional to the number of walls, but that the difference in stiffness between SWNTs and MWNTs also decreases linearly with increasing φ and becomes negligible at around φ ≈ 40°. The simulated cross-sectional scans of a sample SWNT using two different values of φ show that the image can be distorted and shifted laterally when φ is large, in some cases giving measured heights appreciably greater than the sample dimensions. We show analytically that the tip−sample forces that occur during imaging can be significantly lower when CNT probes are used instead of conventional probes, even in the absence of buckling, and that they can be further reduced by increasing φ. On the basis of this result, we propose the design of free-standing kinked probes for the characterization of sensitive samples, whereby the probe approaches the sample at a vertical orientation and possesses a tilted section that regulates the tip−sample interaction forces.
The plasma membranes of bovine circumvallate papillae. Isolation and partial characterization.

Abstract 1. 1. A procedure has been established to isolate plasma membranes and other subcellular membranes from bovine circumvallate papillae by means of discontinuous sucrose density gradient centrifugation. From bovine circumvallate, which is the papilla that contains the most taste buds, about 240 μg plasma membrane proteins per g tissue, or 3.1 μg membrane protein per mg homogenate protein, was obtained. 2. 2. Electron microscopy and marker enzyme studies confirmed the purity of th membrane fractions. Among the cellular membranes, the plasma membranes have the highest specific activities of ouabain-sensitive (Na + K + Mg 2+ )-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.4) and 5′-nucleotidase (EC 3.1.3.5). 3. 3. [ 14 C]Fructose was found to bind preferentially to the taste papillae plasma membranes when mixed with the particulare fraction of the whole homogenate. The [ 14 C]fructose-bound plasma membranes could be subsequently isolated by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. On the other hand, plasma membranes from mount papillae which contain no taste buds failed to show such preferential binding with the taste stimulant fructose. 4. 4. The preferential binding of 14 C-labeled fructose to the plasma membranes of circumvallate papillae suggests that taste receptors of taste tissues may be located in the plasma membranes.
O2 Quenching of Ruthenium(II) Tris(2,2‘-bypyridyl)2+ within the Water Pool of Perfluoropolyether-Based Reverse Micelles Formed in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

We report on the effects of O2 on the luminescence quenching of ruthenium(II) tris(2,2‘-bipyridyl) cation, [Ru(bpy)32+], sequestered within the water pool region of perfluoropolyether (PFPE)-based reverse micelles formed in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2). A Stern−Volmer quenching model cannot describe the O2-dependent [Ru(bpy)32+] quenching profiles in the PFPE micelles. A “two-site” model is needed to describe the observed quenching. The mean quenching efficiency is ∼50-fold higher when the molar ratio of water to PFPE (ωo) is ≤10 as compared to ωo = 20. At ωo values of 10 or less, 95+% of the [Ru(bpy)32+] molecules within the water pool are located in close proximity to the carboxylate headgroups within the micelle water pool and they are quenched very effectively by the O2 dissolved within the scCO2. At the highest ωo values studied, 60−65% of the [Ru(bpy)32+] within the water pool remains near the carboxylate headgroups; a substantial fraction (35−40%) of the [Ru(bpy)32+] is distributed more tow...
Disaster recovery services

Abstract Disaster recovery planning vendors were surveyed to determine services provided. Services of every vendor known to provide fully configured service centers, empty shells, and cooperative arrangements are identified and reviewed. A discussion of planning for the use of these services is included.
Thiol-ene functionalized siloxanes for use as elastomeric dental impression materials

Objectives Thiol- and allyl-functionalized siloxane oligomers are synthesized and evaluated for use as a radical-mediated, rapid set elastomeric dental impression material. Thiol-ene siloxane formulations are crosslinked using a redox-initiated polymerization scheme, and the mechanical properties of the thiol-ene network are manipulated through the incorporation of varying degrees of plasticizer and kaolin filler. Formulations with medium and light body consistencies are further evaluated for their ability to accurately replicate features on both the gross and microscopic levels. We hypothesize that thiol-ene functionalized siloxane systems will exhibit faster setting times and greater detail reproduction than commercially available polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) materials of comparable consistencies.
Interrupted and continuous microarteriorrhaphy techniques: A hemodynamic comparison

Abstract The purpose of this study was to compare interrupted and continuous suturing techniques in laboratory microarteriorrhaphy. The comparison was based on rat femoral artery hemodynamic variables, including blood velocities, lumen diameters, and calculated blood flow. These variables were calculated by an offline computer from Doppler frequency shifts that were measured by a 20-MHz pulsed ultrasonic Doppler velocity meter. No statistical difference was noted postoperatively between the interrupted and continuous techniques relative to any hemodynamic variable. Average blood flow after the interrupted (n = 12) and continuous (n = 12) techniques was 6.59 +/- 1.12 and 6.74 +/- 1.20 ml/min, respectively. The two microarteriorrhaphy techniques result in equal postoperative vessel hemodynamics in a laboratory model.
E. Coli Inspired Propulsion for Swimming Microrobots

Medical applications are among the most fascinating areas of microrobotics. For long, scientists have dreamed of miniature smart devices that can travel inside the human body and carry out a host of complex operations such as minimally invasive surgery (MIS), highly localized drug delivery, and screening for diseases that are in their very early stages. Still a distant dream, significant progress in micro and nanotechnology brings us closer to materializing it. For such a miniature device to be injected into the body, it has to be 800 μm or smaller in diameter. Miniature, safe and energy efficient propulsion systems hold the key to maturing this technology but they pose significant challenges. Scaling the macroscale natation mechanisms to micro/nano length scales is unfeasible. It has been estimated that a vibrating-fin driven swimming robot shorter than 6 mm can not overcome the viscous drag forces in water. In this paper, the authors propose a new type of propulsion inspired by the motility mechanism of bacteria with peritrichous flagellation, such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium and Serratia marcescens. The perfomance of the propulsive mechanism is estimated by modeling the dynamics of the motion. The motion of the moving organelle is simulated and key parameters such as velocity, distribution of force and power requirments for different configurations of the tail are determined theoretically. In order to validate the theoretical result, a scaled up model of the swimming robot is fabricated and characterized in silicone oil using the Buckingham PI theorem for scaling. The results are compared with the theoretically computed values. These robots are intended to swim in stagnation/low velocity biofluid and reach currently inaccessible areas of the human body for disease inspection and possibly treatment. Potential target regions to use these robots include eyeball cavity, cerebrospinal fluid and the urinary system.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Honorable intentions versus praiseworthy accomplishments: The impact of motives and outcomes on the moral self

A centuries-old philosophical issue—Do honorable intentions make an action praiseworthy or is the best action one that generates the greatest good for the greatest number?—was examined by telling subjects who were working to earn money for themselves or a charity that they succeeded or failed at the task. Confirming predictions derived from personal moral philosophy theory, idealistic individuals who stress the importance of fundamental moral principles (absolutists) felt the most positive about their own morality when they were working for a charity, irrespective of the consequences of their actions. Principled individuals who were not idealistic (exceptionists), however, reported feeling distressed when laboring for a charity rather than themselves and the most morally virtuous when they performed badly when working for personal gain. Relativistic subjects (situationists and subjectivists) did not rate themselves as positively when working for a charity. These findings indicate that, at the psychological level, individuals consider both intentions and consequences when evaluating their own moral successes and failures, but they differ in the weight that they assign to these two factors.
Is an Outside Chair Always Better? The Role of Non-CEO Inside Chairs on Corporate Boards

Proponents of separating the CEO and chairman positions advocate having an outside chairperson, although having an inside chairperson can be valuable for some firms. I find inside chairs are more likely where firm-specific human capital is more important and, in these firms, inside chairs are associated with higher firm valuation and better operating performance. Furthermore, skilled inside chairs increase forced CEO turnover sensitivity to performance. The evidence suggests that certain inside chairs can be valuable when firm-specific information is important for monitoring and an outside chair may be costly.
Lateral signaling enhances TGF-β response complexity

TGF-beta elicits context-dependent and cell-specific effects that often appear conflicting, such as stimulation or inhibition of growth, apoptosis or differentiation. It is puzzling how such a diverse array of responses can result from binding of TGF-beta to a single receptor complex that activates a seemingly straightforward signal-transduction scheme dependent on shuttling of Smad transducer proteins from the receptor to the nucleus. Here, we discuss a novel paradigm for TGF-beta signaling in endothelial cells in which the same ligand can induce opposing effects mediated by activation of two different classes of Smads through a chimeric receptor complex.
Genotyping of Apolipoprotein E by Matrix- assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of- flight Mass Spectrometry

The genotyping of the various isoforms of Apolipoprotein E (apo E) has been performed using matrixassisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI-MS). The polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify the specific apo E gene sequence followed by digestion with Cfo I (Clostridium formicoaceticum), for generating restriction fragments for rapid and accurate mass analysis. An exonuclease I digestion step was introduced to remove the unused primers after PCR, which can otherwise interfere in the mass spectral analysis. By replacing the gel electrophoresis detection step with MALDI-MS, restriction isotyping of the apo E gene was achieved. Genotyping of an unknown sample obtained from an independent diagnostic laboratory demonstrated the validity of the MALDI-MS method for the routine clinical analysis of apo E. # 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Received 18 June 1998; Accepted 22 June 1998 Apolipoprotein E (apo E) plays an important role in lipid metabolism and also appears to be involved in cholesterol transport between different tissues. The apo E gene is polymorphic, with three common alleles (e2, e3, e4) that control the expression of six phenotypes, namely, E2/2, E3/3, E4/4 homozygotes and E2/3, E2/4 and E3/4 heterozygotes. These isoforms differ from each other by a cysteine‐arginine interchange that occurs at one or both of two positions (112 and 158) in the amino acid sequence. Apo E3 is the most common isoform (50‐70%) in the general population whereas apo E2 and apo E4 isoforms typically contribute 8‐10% and 10‐15%, respectively to the gene pool. 1 Studies have shown that individuals with the apo E2 isoform have a lower than average cholesterol level, while those with the E4 isoform have a higher than average cholesterol level, and may be at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis. 2 The apo E polymorphism is an important risk factor in the development of Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular diseases. Alzheimer’s disease is a complex, heterogeneous, genetic disorder which involves the degeneration of neurons in the cerebral vessels causing dementia in the elderly. The e4 allele has been shown to be associated with increased risk for the onset of Alzheimer’s disease in many populations throughout the world. 3 Apo E polymorphism is also associated with Type III hyperlipoproteinemia, a disease causing the accumulation of triglycerides and cholesterol rich lipoproteins in the plasma which may contribute to the development of premature atherosclerosis. 4 Studies have shown a high percentage (90%) of the patients having the homozygote phenotype E2.
Contrast Ultrasound Targeted Treatment of Gliomas in Mice via Drug-Bearing Nanoparticle Delivery and Microvascular Ablation

We are developing minimally-invasive contrast agent microbubble based therapeutic approaches in which the permeabilization and/or ablation of the microvasculature are controlled by varying ultrasound pulsing parameters. Specifically, we are testing whether such approaches may be used to treat malignant brain tumors through drug delivery and microvascular ablation. Preliminary studies have been performed to determine whether targeted drug-bearing nanoparticle delivery can be facilitated by the ultrasound mediated destruction of "composite" delivery agents comprised of 100nm poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLAGA) nanoparticles that are adhered to albumin shelled microbubbles. We denote these agents as microbubble-nanoparticle composite agents (MNCAs). When targeted to subcutaneous C6 gliomas with ultrasound, we observed an immediate 4.6-fold increase in nanoparticle delivery in MNCA treated tumors over tumors treated with microbubbles co-administered with nanoparticles and a 8.5 fold increase over non-treated tumors. Furthermore, in many cancer applications, we believe it may be desirable to perform targeted drug delivery in conjunction with ablation of the tumor microcirculation, which will lead to tumor hypoxia and apoptosis. To this end, we have tested the efficacy of non-theramal cavitation-induced microvascular ablation, showing that this approach elicits tumor perfusion reduction, apoptosis, significant growth inhibition, and necrosis. Taken together, these results indicate that our ultrasound-targeted approach has the potential to increase therapeutic efficiency by creating tumor necrosis through microvascular ablation and/or simultaneously enhancing the drug payload in gliomas.
Design Stresses in Fillet Weld Connexions

Intuition and personal opinion, rather than theoretical investigation, have often been the main guides in the determination of design stresses for fillet weld connexions. Excessive safety at the expense of accuracy and economy have resulted in weld connexions which, although they did not fail under working conditions, were not always economical.In the case of eccentrically loaded joints the stress ftorsion under a torque T has been determined by using the polar moment of inertia J of the weld throats: ftorsion = Tr/J, where r is the distance of the extreme fibre from the centroid of the weld throat. This method, though accurate enough for closed weld arrangements, resulted in uneconomical sizes for other arrangements. This paper suggests a means of determining the working loads of eccentrically loaded fillet welded joints by working out the stresses in the plastic state prevailing immediately before failure occurs. From this calculation the value of the failing load is obtained, which is divided by a cert...
Nucleon masses and magnetic moments in a finite volume

We compute finite-size corrections to nucleon masses and magnetic moments in a periodic, spatial box of size L, both in QCD and in partially-quenched QCD.
The Circadian Clock: From Molecules to Behaviour

Circadian rhythms are a cardinal feature of living organisms. The stereotypical organization of homeostatic, endocrine and behavioural variables around the 24-hour cycle constitutes one of the most conserved attributes among species. It is now well established that circadian rhythmicity is not a learned behaviour, but is genetically transmitted and therefore subject to genetic manipulations. Recent advances in the circadian field have demonstrated that circadian oscillations are cell autonomous, that the circadian mechanism operates through a negative feedback loop and that a growing number of genes is under circadian control. Furthermore, single-gene mutations have been isolated in mammals that have profound effects on circadian behaviour. The production and mapping of one of these mutations in the mouse, an organism about which there exists a wealth of genetic information, should accelerate the elucidation of the molecular events involved in the generation of circadian rhythms in mammals.
Characterization of the optimal disturbance attenuation for nonlinear stochastic partially observable uncertain systems

This paper is concerned with stochastic optimal control systems, in which uncertainty is described by a relative entropy constraint between the nominal measure and the uncertain measure, while the pay-off is a functional of the uncertain measure. This is a minimax game, equivalent to the H/sup /spl infin// optimal disturbance attenuation problem, in which the controller seeks to minimize the pay-off, while the disturbance described by a set of measures aims at maximizing the pay-off. The objective of this paper is to apply the results of the abstract formulation to stochastic uncertain systems, in which the nominal and uncertain systems are described by conditional distributions. The results obtained include existence of the optimal control policy, explicit computation of the worst case conditional measure, and characterization of the optimal disturbance attenuation, for nonlinear partially observable systems. The linear case is presented to illustrate the concepts.
Assessing the moisture barrier properties of polymeric coatings using electrical and electrochemical methods

Organic coatings, which are applied for the purposes of corrosion protection, provide a barrier to water, ions, and reducible species. The author reviews the electrical and electrochemical methods which have been used to monitor and quantify the transport of ions and water through the film, the electrochemical reactions beneath the film, and ultimately the barrier properties of the coating. These methods have included open-circuit potential, resistance, capacitance, and impedance measurements. Due to the importance of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to film assessment and the multidisciplinary nature of the field, the basic principles of impedance are included in this review. >
Treatment of Penetration Phobia Through the Combined Use of Systematic Desensitization and Hypnosis: A Case Study

Abstract Systematic desensitization and hypnosis were used in a client with longstanding penetration phobia. Glass test tubes were used in dilatation exercises and masturbation instead of more expensive metal catheters. The client was able to have intercourse and adequate sexual adjustment.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss : Evaluation and Treatment

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a multifactorial condition. Approximately half of patients with RPL will have no explanation for their miscarriages. De novo chromosome abnormalities are common in sporadic and recurrent pregnancy loss. Testing for embryonic abnormalities can provide an explanation for the miscarriage in many cases and prognostic information. Regardless of the cause of RPL, patients should be reassured that the prognosis for live birth with an evidence-based approach is excellent for most patients. The authors review current evidence for the evaluation and treatment of RPL and explore the proposed use of newer technology for patients with RPL.
Pressure-induced transition from an antiferromagnet to a ferrimagnet for Mn(II)(TCNE)[C4(CN)8]1/2 (TCNE = tetracyanoethylene).

MnII(TCNE)[C4(CN)8]1/2 (TCNE = tetracyanoethylene) exhibits a reversible pressure-induced piezomagnetic transition from a low magnetization antiferromagnetic state to a high magnetization ferrimagnetic state above 0.50 ± 0.15 kbar. In the ferrimagnetic state, the critical temperature, Tc, increases with increasing hydrostatic pressure and is ∼97 K at 12.6 kbar, the magnetization increases by 3 orders of magnitude (1000-fold), and the material becomes a hard magnet with a significant remnant magnetization.
An Inorganic Chromophore Based on a Molecular Oxide Supported Metal Carbonyl Cluster: [P2W17O61{Re(CO)3}3{ORb(H2O)}(μ3-OH)]9–

A polyoxometalate-supported trirhenium carbonyl cluster, mimicking metal oxide supported interfacial dyadic structures, has been synthesized and characterized. Multiple techniques, including computational and transient absorption spectroscopy, have been applied to characterize the charge-transfer dynamics occurring at the interfaces of this “double cluster”. The stepwise kinetics of charge separation and recombination has been thoroughly investigated.