cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reliable expression and purification of highly insoluble transmembrane domains.

Abstract A general procedure for the reliable preparation of insoluble transmembrane domains has been developed. Improved expression schemes were developed by expressing the transmembrane domains of caveolin proteins 1, 2, and 3 as a fusion to the Trp leader protein. This construct readily formed inclusion bodies during overexpression, allowing high levels of protein to be achieved. Cleavage of the transmembrane domain away from the Trp leader carrier protein was performed with cyanogen bromide. The transmembrane domains were then purified using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with a C4 column and were eluted with a mixture of 1-butanol and acetic acid. Using this method, the 39–42 amino acid transmembrane domains from caveolin proteins 1, 2, and 3 were successfully purified to homogeneity. Further verification of this method was successfully done with Rfbp(18–51), another insoluble transmembrane domain.
The emergency department as a screening point for hospital specialty services: inclusionary vs exclusionary strategies.

Abstract The screening function performed by the emergency department for hospital specialty units varies greatly and is important in understanding the complex relationship between emergency medical services and the wider health care environment. Two organizational postures define the extremes in screening variations. Under an Inclusionary Strategy the emergency department seeks at all costs to minimize the number of false negative cases (those that should have been referred to the specialty clinic/unit but who were incorrectly discharged from the E.R. instead) by over-referring a high level of false positives (those who should have been discharged from the emergency department but who were incorrectly referred to the specialty clinic/unit). Under an Exclusionary Strategy the emergency department does the opposite, that is, it minimizes false positive referrals by under referring and tolerating a high level of false negatives. The adoption of an Inclusionary or Exclusionary Strategy or any intermediate posture has important causes and consequences for occupancy rates of specialty units, the level of diagnostic ability required in the emergency department and therefore its clinical attractiveness for physicians, staffing ratios and training levels for nurses and physicians in the emergency department and specialty clinics/units, and the risk taking behavior of.preferring a false positive to a false negative or vice versa. Since this typology and the model on which it is based are seen as a means by which EMS research can move from observation to description and through explanation to prediction, both are used to deduce hypotheses on the causes and consequence of emergency department screening selectively for early testing of the model.
Overvoltages due to Synchronous Tripping of Plug-in Electric-Vehicle Chargers Following Voltage Dips

Plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging equipment incorporates protection that ensures that grid disturbances do not damage the charger or vehicle. When the grid voltage sags below 80% of nominal, undervoltage protection is likely to disconnect the charging load from the grid. Most PEV charging will occur overnight, when non-PEV load is at a minimum. This paper argues that PEV voltage-sag response, when synchronized across large numbers of PEVs, could result in the loss of a significant proportion of the total load. It is shown that this load loss can lead to unacceptably high voltages once the initiating event has been cleared. This paper explores the nature of this voltage-rise phenomenon. Analysis tools are developed to assist in determining PEV loading conditions that demarcate acceptable postdisturbance voltage response from unacceptable outcomes. Two examples, based on standard distribution test systems, are used to illustrate PEV-induced overvoltage behavior, and demonstrate applications of the analysis tools.
Performance evaluation of photorefractive two-beam coupling joint transform correlator

The performance of a novel joint transform correlator (JTC) based on photorefractive (PR) two-beam coupling (TBC) is analyzed by determining the dependence of relevant figures of merit such as the discrimination ratio, the peak-to-correlation plane energy ratio, and the peak-to-noise ratio on the PR gain coefficient and pump-probe beam ratio for a variety of reference and signal images. In this scheme, spatially separated reference and signal images constitute the pump, which transfers energy to a weak probe in a novel image processing setup where the PR polymer serves as the spatial filter in the Fourier plane.
Uncertainty relation with angle variables

An extension of the recent work of Judge on establishing a correct uncertainty relation between orbital angular momentum and the corresponding angle variable is presented. The equation for the minimum uncertainty states is derived and is applied to the problem of obtaining optimum parameters in the uncertainty relation.
Magnetic nanotubes produced by hydrogen reduction

FePt and Fe3O4 nanotubes are produced by hydrogen reduction in nanochannels of porous alumina templates and investigated by electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry. Loading the templates with an Fe chloride and Pt chloride mixture, followed by hydrogen reduction at 560 °C, leads to the formation of ferromagnetic FePt nanotubes in the alumina pores. An Fe nitrate solution, thermally decomposed at 250 °C and reduced in hydrogen for 2.5 h at the same temperature, yields Fe3O4 tubes. The versatility of the method indicates that materials with a wide range of parameters can be produced.
Effect of dexamethasone treatment of tuberculous cattle on results of the gamma-interferon test for Mycobacterium bovis

The purpose of this project was to determine the effect of dexamethasone (DEX) treatment of tuberculous cows on antigen-stimulated gamma-interferon (gamma-IFN) production in a commercial Mycobacterium bovis gamma-interferon test (gamma-IFN test) developed for diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis. In the gamma-IFN test an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay is used to detect bovine gamma-IFN in the plasma from whole blood samples cultured with M. bovis and Mycobacterium avium tuberculin purified protein derivatives (PPDs). DEX is a synthetic glucocorticoid commonly used as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, and experimentally as a model of stress-induced immunosuppression in cattle. DEX treatment has previously been associated with decreased lymphocyte response to mitogens in cattle, which led to the current hypothesis that DEX treatment would suppress stimulated gamma-IFN production resulting in false negative results in the gamma-IFN test. In replicate studies using naturally infected dairy cows, blood was drawn daily for at least 2 days prior to DEX treatment, during 3 days of DEX treatment, and for at least 9 days post-DEX. Results of the gamma-IFN test were evaluated by optical density (OD), and by three OD calculation methods: two different methods suggested by the manufacturer, and a method adapted from the evaluation of a bovine gamma-IFN test used in Australia. Prior to DEX treatment all cows had positive gamma-IFN tests by each calculation method. As early as 24 h after the first DEX injection a decline in PPD-stimulated gamma-IFN production was reflected in OD data for all cows. Calculated gamma-IFN test results were negative after DEX treatment for all but one cow, which was known to produce relatively large amounts of gamma-IFN as measured by this test. The degree of gamma-IFN suppression, and the number of days that gamma-IFN test results were negative after DEX treatment (1-8 days), varied by cow and by data calculation method. Treatment with DEX is associated with suppressed PPD-stimulated gamma-IFN production, which may be reflected as false negative results in the gamma-IFN test depending on the data calculation method applied. The results have implications for the management conditions and medical treatment schedule under which samples for the gamma-IFN test are collected.
Evaluation of serum prolactin levels in intellectually disabled patients using antipsychotic medications.

Background: Patients with intellectual disabilities may be treated with antipsychotic medications for a variety of diagnoses. Use of this category of medication can increase prolactin levels and place the patient at risk for sexual dysfunction and lower bone mineral density. The proposed mechanism of action is affinity for the dopamine receptor. Use of bromocriptine, a dopamine receptor antagonist, was proposed to attenuate hyperprolactinemia.\r\n Objectives: The objectives of this study were to (1) review serum prolactin (PRL) elevations associated with the use of antipsychotic (AP) medications in an intellectually disabled adult population and (2) determine if any association existed between the level of elevation and AP used. Patients and Methods: Medical records for adult patients at two Oklahoma facilities for the intellectually disabled were reviewed to evaluate prolactin levels for individuals prescribed antipsychotics. A linear regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between prolactin levels with intellectual disability level, bromocriptine use, demographics, and antipsychotic. Results: 73 (n = 53 males, n = 20 females) patients met criteria. The average age was 41.2 years. Nearly 70% of the patients had severe to profound levels of disability. 77% were prescribed second generation antipsychotics; 19% received first generation agents. Two variables, gender and bromocriptine use, were found to be significant predictors of prolactin levels. Mean prolactin level for females was 44 ng/mL (normal range: 4-30 ng/mL, males = 4-23 ng/mL). Patients who did not receive bromocriptine had mean levels of 23 ng/mL. No significant difference in prolactin levels was found for type of AP. Conclusions: Mean prolactin levels for females were significantly higher than for males. Both sexes were found to have higher-than-normal levels. Use of bromocriptine was associated with higher prolactin levels. In this population of patients, the type of AP used had no significance on prolactin levels.
Assessing changes in microbial respiration, bacterial growth efficiency, and bacterial production with nutrient addition to batch cultures

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) provides an important source of energy in lotic systems that can regulate food chain dynamics. It is thought that inorganic nutrient addition to stream culture samples will increase microbial respiration and bacterial growth efficiency (BGE). Nutrient limitation may prevent microbial communities from reaching their full potential in terms of biomass and efficiency, which could limit organisms at higher trophic levels. This study utilized batch cultures to assess changes across a variety of water quality and nutrient parameters in an effort to assess the role of inorganic nutrient addition in regulating microbial activity in headwater streams. Treatments of phosphorus addition (+ P) and nitrogen plus phosphorus addition (+ N + P) were used to assess changes in microbial activity in samples collected from forested and agricultural headwater streams. Phosphorus limitation was observed only at a single site, suggesting that a secondary limiting nutrient (e.g. nitrogen) may affec...
Automorphism groups of nilpotent groups and spaces

Abstract A pair of finitely generated, torsion-free nilpotent groups G1,G2 is constructed with the properties that G1 and G2 are p-isomorphic for all primes p, yet Aut(G1) and Aut(G2) are not isomorphic. The example constructed is compared to an analogous example in the homotopy category of simply connected, finite CW-complexes.
Glucose-Derived 3‘-(Carboxymethyl)-3‘-deoxyribonucleosides and 2‘,3‘-Lactones as Synthetic Precursors for Amide-Linked Oligonucleotide Analogues1

Treatment of a 1,2-O-isopropylidene-3-ketopentofuranose derivative (obtained from d-glucose) with [(ethoxycarbonyl)methylene]triphenylphosphorane and catalytic hydrogenation of the resulting alkene gave stereodefined access to 3-(carboxymethyl)-3-deoxy-d-ribofuranose derivatives. Esters of 5-O-acetyl- or 5-azido-5-deoxy-3-(carboxymethyl)-d-ribofuranose were coupled with nucleobases to give branched-chain nucleoside derivatives. Ester saponification and protecting group manipulation provided 2‘-O-(tert-butyldimethylsilyl) ethers of 5‘-azido-5‘-deoxy- or 5‘-O-(dimethoxytrityl) derivatives of 3‘-(carboxymethyl)-3‘-deoxyribonucleosides that are effective precursors for synthesis of amide-linked oligoribonucleosides.
A Rapid Automated Stathmokinetic Method For Determination of In Vitro Cell Cycle Transit Times

To provide a rapid method for examining cell cycle dynamics, we utilized continuous exposure of Chinese hamster ovary cells and human colon cancer cells to colcemid to block cycling cells in metaphase, suppressing re-entry into G1. Changes in cell cycle compartment distribution were monitored by DNA flow cytometry. Analysis of the rate of G2 + M compartment accumulation after addition of colcemid permitted calculation of all cycle transit parameters. These compared favorably with data in the same cell lines determined by the fraction of labeled mitoses technique. Serial assessment of DNA flow cytometry after addition of colcemid permits rapid quantitation of cycle traverse rates.
A Model for Lower Hybrid Wave Excitation Compared with Observations by Viking

The mechanism of lower hybrid wave (LHW) excitation due to the O+ relative drift in a plasma subjected to low-frequency waves (LFWs) is used for analysis of Viking satellite data for events in the cusp/cleft region. In some cases, such a mechanism leads to LHW energy densities and ion distribution functions close to those observed, suggesting the proposed mechanism is a plausible candidate to explain certain classes of LHW generation events in space plasmas.
Balloon Catheter Control of Life-Threatening Hemoptysis

The successful use of a Fogarty balloon catheter to tamponade bleeding in a moribund patient with massive bronchial hemorrhage is described. An endotracheal tube was passed alongside the catheter after which the patient was resuscitated and prepared for lung resection.
An application of multidisciplinary education to a campus-community partnership to reduce motor vehicle accidents.

Objective: A collaborative campus-community partnership program provided the framework for an intervention to reduce motor vehicle accident fatalities along a rural Appalachian highway. Students from public health, nursing and medicine worked with community members to identify the problem and plan the strategy to address it. Methods: An inquiry-based learning model proved to be an appropriate approach to engage student teams with community leaders in identifying and resolving health needs. Inquiry-based strategies place students in guided learning situations where their investigations lead to working solutions. The inquiry-based model matched the curricular objectives of the Community Partnership Program (CPP) more closely than the classroom oriented problem-based learning approach. Implementation: In the spring of 1994, students, along with citizens and officials of a rural Appalachian county, initiated a community-based prevention project focused on reducing deaths from motor vehicle accidents employing the principles of an inquirybased learning model. Discussion: This project effectively demonstrates the role that students can play in mobilizing diverse elements of the community to address identified health and safety concerns. It provides an illustration that a longitudinal, community-based, servicelearning approach to health professions education is beneficial to both student learners and communities. Conclusions: Through the use of inquiry-based learning methods, students gained real life experience in applied principles of health statistics, epidemiology, community organization, health risk communication, health education planning and program implementation. Outcomes of the project included a measurable reduction in automobile-related fatalities and the initiation by the state department of transportation of a series of investigations expected to pave the way for physical improvements to the roadway.
Nitric oxide regulation of tissue free radical injury.

We have presented evidence from a broad range of chemical, cell biological, and in vivo studies showing that .NO can mediate tissue-protective reactions during oxidant stress, as well as toxic and tissue prooxidant effects. One predominant factor that has been identified which influences .NO being protective versus toxic is the relative rates of production and concentrations of .NO and the more "traditional" family of reactive oxygen species, including O2.-, H2O2, .OH, LO., LOO., and high valency complexes of iron. Also, since so many anti-neutrophil actions of .NO have been described, it is likely that .NO will serve a protective role in acute inflammatory reactions. One issue is certain--many new truths remain to be revealed, as we continue to develop our understanding of the toxicology of reactive oxygen- and nitrogen-containing species.
Histone h1(0) and its carboxyl-terminal domain bind in the major groove of DNA.

The binding of histone H1 0 to T4 bacteriophage DNA was investigated using thermal denaturation of the DNA titrated with varying concentrations of protein. The H1 0 used was expressed in and purified from a strain of E. coli and is therefore homogeneous with respect to HI subtype and posttranslational modifications. Two types of T4 DNA were used: wild-type, which contains a modification of the cytosine residues that projects into the major groove: and a mutant type, which lacks the modification of the cytosines. Data were compared to simulated thermal denaturation curves to determine estimates for binding affinity and binding site size in base pairs of the protein. Analysis of the data yielded values of 10 8 M - 1 for K, the binding affinity, and 10 base pairs for n, the number of base pairs covered by one protein, for the mutant T4 DNA. Analysis of the wild-type DNA data suggested that the glucose projecting into the major groove of this DNA decreases the number of sites to which the H1 0 protein can bind, indicating that there are interactions between the protein and the major groove of DNA. The binding site size on this DNA is 10 base pairs, the same as on the unmodified DNA. The affinity for wild-type DNA is slightly higher, 10 9 M - 1 . Data were collected and analyzed for binding of two domains of the protein as well, the carboxyl-terminal domain and the central globular domain. Binding of the carboxyl-terminal domain was quantitatively and qualitatively similar to that of the full-length protein. In contrast, binding of the globular domain was quite different: it binds much more weakly, with a K of 6 x 10 4 M - 1 , and covers fewer base pairs, with an n of 3. Also, there was no evidence that the globular domain interacts with the major groove of DNA.
Limit cycles in replicator-mutator network dynamics

The replicator-mutator equations from evolutionary dynamics serve as a model for the evolution of language, behavioral dynamics in social networks, and decision-making dynamics in networked multi-agent systems. Analysis of the stable equilibria of these dynamics has been a focus in the literature, where symmetry in fitness functions is typically assumed. We explore asymmetry in fitness and show that the replicator-mutator equations exhibit Hopf bifurcations and limit cycles. We prove conditions for the existence of stable limit cycles for the dynamics in the case of circulant fitness matrices, and illustrate their existence in the noncirculant case. For decision-making networks, these limit cycles correspond to sustained oscillations in decisions across the group.
The anatomy of predator-prey dynamics in a changing climate.

Summary 1 Humans are increasingly influencing global climate and regional predator assemblages, yet a mechanistic understanding of how climate and predation interact to affect fluctuations in prey populations is currently lacking. 2 Here we develop a modelling framework to explore the effects of different predation strategies on the response of age-structured prey populations to a changing climate. 3 We show that predation acts in opposition to temporal correlation in climatic conditions to suppress prey population fluctuations. 4 Ambush predators such as lions are shown to be more effective at suppressing fluctuations in their prey than cursorial predators such as wolves, which chase down prey over long distances, because they are more effective predators on prime-aged adults. 5 We model climate as a Markov process and explore the consequences of future changes in climatic autocorrelation for population dynamics. We show that the presence of healthy predator populations will be particularly important in dampening prey population fluctuations if temporal correlation in climatic conditions increases in the future.
Comparing probability forecasts derived from theoretical distributions

Abstract Using the wrong forecast error distribution (typically the normal distribution) has been suggested as one reason why prediction intervals are too narrow. Extreme values are especially likely to be drawn from non-normal distributions. A simple way of selecting the appropriate theoretical distribution is to estimate parameters using historical data, transformed if necessary, to make them stationary. The method is demonstrated using daily electricity peak loads, a set of extreme values. Parameters for four specific distributions, the normal, gamma, Cauchy and Weibull, were estimated and used to make probabilistic forecasts. Although none of the distributions produced well-calibrated post-sample forecasts, the Weibull showed the most promise. Probability forecasts calculated from Chebychev's inequality were the worst-calibrated.
DNA flow cytometry and prognostic factors in 1331 frozen breast cancer specimens

Breast cancer proliferative capacity as determined by the DNA thymidine labeling index, along with estrogen and progesterone receptor status, is highly predictive for risk of relapse and overall survival. Recently, DNA ploidy and proliferative capacity (S-phase fraction [SPF]) as determined by flow cytometry have also shown significant prognostic value. The authors have developed a technique which allows a 50 to 100 mg aliquot of the same frozen breast tumor specimen routinely employed in steroid receptor assays, to be assayed for both DNA ploidy and SPF by flow cytometry. Of the 1331 tumors examined, DNA histograms were evaluable for ploidy in 89% (1184) of specimens examined; 57% of these were aneuploid. Adapting a trapezoidal model to estimate SPF in both diploid and aneuploid tumors, the authors found 81% (1084) to be evaluable for SPF, with a median SPF of 5.8% for the entire population. The median SPF was significantly lower in diploid tumors (2.6%) than in aneuploid tumors (10.3%, P less than 0.0001). Both aneuploidy and high SPF were strongly associated with absence of steroid receptors. Aneuploid tumors showed more striking differences in the frequency of high S-phase values with respect to receptor status and age or menopausal status, whereas diploid but not aneuploid tumors showed lower SPF in node-negative versus node-positive patients. Because it is particularly important to identify the high-risk minority of node-negative patients, the authors examined the node-negative group separately. High SPF subgroups appeared in each category of receptor status and age or menopausal status within the node-negative group, suggesting that SPF will be an independent prognostic factor. With the DNA flow cytometric methods used here, it is now practical to determine ploidy and SPF for nearly every breast cancer patient. These factors, which show associations with established prognostic factors, such as receptor status can now be fully evaluated for their prognostic significance in broad patient populations.
A theoretical analysis of the energy budget in the lower thermosphere

The University of Michigan's diagnostic post-processor (UM-DP) developed for use with the National Center for Atmospheric Research's-Thermosphere-Ionosphere-General Circulation Model (NCAR-TIGCM) has been extended to include a thermal term analysis capability. The upgraded processor calculates the magnitudes of the individual terms in the thermodynamic equation solved by the TIGCM as a function of 3-D space and model time. In a first study using the new capability, the lower thermospheric heating and cooling terms have been examined for a diurnally reproducible TIGCM run for moderate geomagnetic activity, solar maximum, December solstice conditions. Thermal terms calculated for geomagnetically quiet and active TIGCM runs have also been examined to investigate the geomagnetic activity dependence of the important nitric oxide (NO) radiational cooling term. Finally, the one-dimensional global mean model of Roble and Dickinson (1989) has been used to calculate the effects on the lower thermospheric thermal balance caused by the combination of natural and anthropogenic forcings projected over the next 30 yr. The principal results of this study of lower thermospheric energetics are as follows. (1) Lower thermospheric heating and cooling terms have complex morphological dependencies on latitude, longitude, altitude, geomagnetic activity, and season. (2) For the highest altitudes considered (~ 175 km), heating caused by minor species chemistry plays the most important role in sunlit conditions, with direct solar EUV heating and Joule heating having secondary roles. The primary cooling terms at these altitudes are adiabatic expansion, NO cooling, and downward heat conduction. (3) At ~ 125 km altitude, direct solar insolation and Joule heating are the most important heating terms, with compressional heating also contributing significantly in the winter hemisphere. The NO and CO2 radiational terms are roughly equal in magnitude and together dominate the cooling, with adiabatic expansion being of significance at high summer latitudes. (4) At the lowest altitudes considered (~ 103 km), direct solar insolation, heat conduction, and adiabatic compressional effects dominate the heating. The dominant cooling term here is caused by CO2 radiation, with heat advection and adiabatic expansion in the summer hemisphere playing minor roles. (5) The important NO cooling rates can double globally for high levels of geomagnetic activity, with values at low latitudes rising from ~160 K/day to ~ 400 K/day at ~ 150 km altitude. (6) Solar-cycle-dependent changes in NO radiational cooling and EUV heating tend to cancel each other out near ~ 150 km altitude. In this altitude region, long-term temperature reductions caused by anthropogenic CO2 increases may become more readily measurable, owing to the smaller masking effects of solar activity variations.
Distribution model of organism development times.

Abstract It is shown in this analysis that the distribution of organism development times for constant and variable temperatures can be described based upon one simple assumption. This assumption is that the concentration of enzymes which are rate controlling for development are symmetrically distributed about some genetically determined mean concentration. It then follows mathematically that the skew in the distribution in development times, observed by Stinner, Butler, Bacheler & Tuttle (1975) and others, results naturally from the transformation from development rates to emergence times. The distribution model is shown to agree with observed data for (i) boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, and (ii) cotton fleahopper, Pseudatomoscelis seriatus Reuter, reared under both constant and variable temperature regimes. The resulting model enables predictions of the distribution of emergence times for organisms reared under any set of variable temperature field conditions.
Morphological transformations in the magnetite biomineralizing protein Mms6 in iron solutions: a small-angle X-ray scattering study.

Magnetotactic bacteria that produce magnetic nanocrystals of uniform size and well-defined morphologies have inspired the use of biomineralization protein Mms6 to promote formation of uniform magnetic nanocrystals in vitro. Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) studies in physiological solutions reveal that Mms6 forms compact globular three-dimensional (3D) micelles (approximately 10 nm in diameter) that are, to a large extent, independent of concentration. In the presence of iron ions in the solutions, the general micellar morphology is preserved, however, with associations among micelles that are induced by iron ions. Compared with Mms6, the m2Mms6 mutant (with the sequence of hydroxyl/carboxyl containing residues in the C-terminal domain shuffled) exhibits subtle morphological changes in the presence of iron ions in solutions. The analysis of the SAXS data is consistent with a hierarchical core–corona micellar structure similar to that found in amphiphilic polymers. The addition of ferric and ferrous iro...
Cyclic strain resistance and fracture behavior of 7150 aluminum alloy

In this paper the low cycle fatigue properties and cyclic fracture behavior of aluminum alloy 7150 are examined. Test specimens of the alloy were cycled using tension-compression loading, under total strain control, over a range of plastic strains giving lives of less than 104 cycles. The alloy displayed softening in both the longitudinal and transverse orientations of the wrought plate, at all cyclic strain amplitudes. The observed softening behavior is ascribed to contributions from concurrent and synergistic effects involving an interaction of mobile dislocations with matrix precipitates and multiple microscopic crack initiation leading to macroscopic crick growth. Fracture of the alloy samples was predominantly intergranular, for both orientations, with tortuous crack path. The low cycle fatigue properties and cyclic fracture behavior of the alloy are discussed in terms of competing influences of plastic strain amplitude, response stress, intrinsic microstructural effects, dislocation-microstructure interactions and matrix slip characteristics.
Robinson-Schensted-Knuth insertion and characters of cyclotomic Hecke algebras

The cyclotomic Hecke algebras Hn,r = Hn(u1, . . . , ur; q) were defined by Ariki and Koike in [AK] as Iwahori-Hecke algebras of the complex reflection group Gn,r = Sn o (Z/rZ) where Sn is the symmetric group. If ζ is a primitive complex rth root of unity, then when q → 1 and ui → ζ, the algebra Hn,r specializes to the group algebra C[Gn,r]. The irreducible representations of Hn,r are constructed in [AK]. They are indexed by the set of all r-tuples of partitions with a total of n boxes, called r-partitions. For each r-partition μ, T. Shoji [Sho] defines a symmetric function qμ and proves that qμ = ∑
A CAD system for assessment of MRI findings to track the progression of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological disease affecting myelin pathways. MRI has become the medical imaging study of choice both for the diagnosis and for the follow-up and monitoring of multiple sclerosis. The progression of the disease is variable, and requires routine follow-up to document disease exacerbation, improvement, or stability of the characteristic MS lesions or plaques. The difficulties with using MRI as a monitoring tool are the significant quantities of time needed by the radiologist to actually measure the size of the lesions, and the poor reproducibility of these manual measurements. A CAD system for automatic image analysis improves clinical efficiency and standardizes the lesion measurements. Multiple sclerosis is a disease well suited for automated analysis. The segmentation algorithm devised classifies normal and abnormal brain structures and measures the volume of multiple sclerosis lesions using fuzzy c-means clustering with incorporated spatial (sFCM) information. First, an intracranial structures mask in T1 image data is localized and then superimposed in FLAIR image data. Next, MS lesions are identified by sFCM and quantified within a predefined volume. The initial validation process confirms a satisfactory comparison of automatic segmentation to manual outline by a neuroradiologist and the results will be presented.
Millimeter wavelength measurements of the rotational spectrum of 2-aminoethanol

Aminoethanol is a predicted precursor to the amino acid alanine in the interstellar medium and is therefore of great interest for observational studies. However, previous work involving the rotational spectrum of this molecule is limited to centimeter wavelengths and additional laboratory work is necessary to support astronomical heterodyne spectroscopy. This work presents the Doppler-limited rotational spectrum of aminoethanol measured in selected regions between 72 and 305 GHz. Measurements of ground state and ν_(27) transitions have been extended up to J=51 and J=43, respectively. Additional rotational transitions were assigned for the ν_(25), ν_(26), ν_(25)+ν_(27), 2ν_(27) and ν_(26)+ν_(27) hot bands, resulting in improved rotational and centrifugal distortion constants for these states.
Spirituality, Positive Purpose, Wisdom, and Positive Development in Adolescence: Comments on Oman, Flinders, and Thoresen's Ideas About “Integrating Spiritual Modeling Into Education”

Oman, Flinders, and Thoresen (this issue) provide a creative and heuristic pedagogical plan for using spiritual models to enhance academic attainment and personal well-being in college courses. The...
Adsorption kinetics of surface active agent at an interface

A simple diffusion theory does not adequately account for the adsorption of surface active ions, nor does it take into account the energy barrier to adsorption. It is shown that the adsorption of alkyl sulfate ions at an air-water interface is proportional to the square root of time and the rate constant is proportional to the equilibrium adsorption, regardless of the presence or absence of inorganic electrolytes. A theoretical treatment of adsorption kinetics is presented, which takes explicit account of the diffusion process and presupposes an adsorption potential as well as an absorption barrier. A new equation suitable for the treatment of experimental data is derived.
Planning and management by objectives

Abstract The purpose of this article is to shed some light on the relationship between management by objectives and planning. Specifically, 294 managers in banking and manufacturing were studied. The results of that study are presented in this article.
Repair of ischemic mitral regurgitation does not increase mortality or improve long-term survival in patients undergoing coronary artery revascularization: A propensity analysis

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to compare operative mortality and midterm outcome of patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR) undergoing either coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) alone or CABG with mitral valve (MV) repair. Methods From 1996 to 2001, 51 consecutive patients underwent CABG with MV repair for ischemic MR. All patients in this group were matched to similar patients with ischemic MR undergoing CABG alone during the same 6-year period using propensity analysis (considering 24 covariates, including severity of MR and New York Heart Association [NYHA] class). Results Propensity score matching yielded 51 closely matched control patients. Preoperative MR severity was 3+ or 4+ in 94% of CABG with MV repair and 96% of CABG-alone patients, and 86% of patients in each group were NYHA class III or IV. Operative mortality was 3.9% ± 2.8% in both groups. Survival was also similar between CABG with MV repair and CABG alone at 1 year (84% ± 5% versus 82% ± 5%) and 3 years (70% ± 7% versus 71% ± 7% ( p = 0.43). Among survivors, NYHA class improved at follow-up (50 ± 20 months) from 3.4 ± 0.7 to 1.7 ± 1.0 for CABG with MV repair ( p p Conclusions Operative mortality, midterm survival, and late functional class were similar between two well-matched groups of patients undergoing CABG for ischemic MR, differing only in the addition of MV repair. Whereas MV repair can be added safely to CABG in this group of high-risk patients without increasing mortality, its impact on late survival and functional class may be limited.
A review of Parastrachia (Hemiptera: Cydnidae: Parastrachiinae)

Abstract Parastrachia Distant contains two species, P. japonensis (Scott) and P. nagaensis Distant, which have not been clearly distinguished in the past. We provide distinguishing characteristics of the two species, describe variation within each species, and discuss their distributions. We also discuss their food plants and comment upon their evolutionary history.
Construct validity in the trail making test: What makes part B harder?

The Trail Making Test (TMT) is primarily a test of motor speed and visual attention. In Trail Making, Part A, the subject's task is to quickly draw lines on a page connecting 25 consecutive numbers. In Part B, the subject must draw the lines alternating between numbers and letters. To determine what makes Part B harder than Part A, variations of the standard Trail Making Test were assessed. Forty college students (20 male, 20 female) were given four forms of the Trail Making Test. The results show that Trail Making, Part B with just numbers took longer to complete than the standard Part A with numbers. Part B is 56 cm longer and has more visually interfering stimuli than Part A. These results indicate that Part B is more difficult than Part A not only because it is a more difficult cognitive task, but also because of its increased demands in motor speed and visual search.
NMR and Theoretical Study of Acidity Probes on Sulfated Zirconia Catalysts

The measurement of the type and number of acid sites on sulfated zirconia catalysts using the 31P NMR spectrum of adsorbed P(CH3)3 has been vexed by spectral assignment controversies. Using a combination of NMR experiments and theoretical methods, including chemical shift calculations at the GIAO-MP2 level, we show that a previously observed 31P resonance at +27 ppm is due to P(CH3)4+, formed in a reaction that consumes a Bronsted site. The coproduct of this reaction, PH(CH3)2, is protonated on the surface to yield a 31P resonance in the region expected for P(CH3)3 on a Lewis site. Further complications result from a signal due to OP(CH3)3, formed by oxidizing sites on the surface, complexed to unidentified acid sites. As an alternative, we show that carefully designed 15N experiments using the less reactive and less basic probe pyridine-15N provide more easily interpreted measurements of Bronsted and Lewis sites on sulfated zirconias of diverse composition, preparation, and treatment. Quantitative studie...
Seed germination and early seedling establishment of some elephant-dispersed species in Banyang-Mbo Wildlife Sanctuary, south-western Cameroon

Effects of the elephant gut and elephant dung on seed germination and early seedling establishment/growth were investigated in Banyang-Mbo Wildlife Sanctuary using undestroyed seeds of 14 plant species sorted from fresh elephant dung between 1 June 1994 and 31 May 1995 and similar seeds extracted from fresh ripe fruits fallen on the forest floor within the same period both sown in fresh elephant dung and forest soil. Parameters measured were final germination success, germination time and seedling growth rate. Results indicated that two species, Panda oleosa and Poga oleosa, did not germinate at all after 365 d irrespective of their sources and media of planting. Germination success observed in ingested seeds was significantly different from that observed in seeds from fresh fruits. Germination success observed in elephant dung was not significantly different from that in forest soil. Mean germination time varied widely between species and treatments but was generally shorter in seeds that passed through the elephant gut than those collected from fresh ripe fruits and these differences in mean germination time were significant in 92% of the species that germinated. Growth rates of seedlings from ingested seeds were higher than those from fresh ripe fruits especially in elephant dung. Growth medium was highly significant to growth in 10 of 12 species (83%) and source was important only to two species (16%) while their combined interacting effects were significant to three of the 12 species (25%). It is concluded that ingestion of seeds by the elephant is important in the germination of some rain-forest species and the elephant dung that contains the seeds dispersed is very important in the rapid growth of the seedlings. On the basis of germination success plant species that are absolutely or exclusively dependent on elephants for dispersal/germination are absent in Banyang-Mbo Wildlife Sanctuary, while Omphalocarpum elatum and Strychnos aculeata would be on the basis of fruit morphology.
Clinical pharmacology: Foscarnet

Foscarnet exerts its antiviral effects via reversible inhibition of viral polymerases. Pharmacodynamic data indicate that herpesvirus and human immunodeficiency virus replication is inhibited by therapeutically achievable concentrations of foscarnet; however, the concentrations of foscarnet required for such inhibition have been found to vary widely. Pharmacokinetic data indicate that foscarnet is eliminated via the renal route, undergoes negligible metabolism, and appears to be distributed widely from the circulation. However, the available data indicate that the pharmacokinetics of the drug varies among patients and within the individual patient, particularly with regard to plasma drug levels; furthermore, such factors as the intracellular kinetics of the drug have yet to be well characterized. It is thus difficult to formulate optimal dosing regimens on the basis of what is known of foscarnet pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Nevertheless, dosages that produce clear-cut therapeutic benefits without unacceptable toxicity have been identified in clinical trials of foscarnet in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients with cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis.
Characterization of atmospheric dry deposition particulates in Kobe, Japan.

Abstract The sources and character of individual metal and metalloid particles from atmospheric dry depositions in Kobe, Japan were investigated. Japan faces long-range pollutant transportation from northeastern Asia during winter and spring. Information regarding their properties and sources is useful for evaluating their affects on the environment and human health. Individual metal and metalloid particles that were collected for every 24 h on the plate, which was designed to reduce a local turbulence, were characterized for their composition, diameter, and deposition fluxes using a field emission scanning electron microscope with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer. Approximately 3000 metal and metalloid particles were classified into 14 types based on their composition and further classified into four groups based on their distribution patterns. They are (A) Fe–O, Fe–Ba–Sb–Cu–S–Ti–O, Fe–Zn–O, Zn–O, Ni–O, and Mn–Fe–O; (B) Cu–Zn–O and Cu–Sn–O; (C) Pb–O, Sn–Sb–O, and Ag–O; (D) Pb–Zn–Cl–Si–S–O and Bi–Cl–O. From these data, this study suggests their sources as the Asian continent (Group A), local source (Group B), multiple sources (Group C), and incineration process (Group D). This study shows (1) the sources and character of individual metal and metalloid particles from short-term atmospheric depositions in Kobe, Japan and (2) application of individual particle analysis for atmospheric depositions.
Time‐resolved electroabsorption measurement of carrier velocity in inverted polarity In1‐xGax N/GaN heterostructures due to internal electric fields

Carrier transport measurements were made in a c -plane inverted-polarity n -GaN/i -In1–xGax N/p -GaN heterostructure with a 200 nm thick In1–xGax N layer using ultrafast spectroscopy techniques. Time-domain THz measurements indicate that the direction of electron transport is dominated by drift towards the n -GaN layer. Time-resolved electroabsorption measurements were used to determine carrier velocities by monitoring the change in transmission of a probe beam tuned to the In1-xGax N absorption edge due to the transport of photogenerated carriers under the built-in internal electric field. Carrier transit times associated with screening of the electroabsorption are resolved at the lowest injection level. The signal rise time shows two distinct time scales, which correspond to an electron velocity of 3.3 ± 0.5 x 107 cm/s and a hole velocity of 6.7 ± 0.3 x 106 cm/s in an internal electric field of ∼150 kV/cm. (© 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Malignant pheochromocytoma in a 16-year-old patient with neurofibromatosis type 1

Patients with neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) feature a high risk of developing benign and malignant tumors, mainly those with a neuroectodermal origin, the risk being about 4 times higher than in the general population. Pheochromocytoma (PHEO) is a sporadic tumor (1∶100,000) arising from the adrenal medulla. Pheochromocytoma is a rare condition when occurring in conjunction with NF1 and occurs in about 1% of patients, rarely in those of pediatric age. In this study we present a 16-year-old patient with NF1 and malignant PHEO. Loss of heterozygosity analysis in PHEOs shows a reduction to homozygosity, observed for both 17p and 17q markers. This case confirms the importance of surveillance for malignant neoplasias in NF1 patients during childhood and adolescence. On the other hand, since 30% of PHEOs had germline mutations and, more rarely, somatic mutations, patients with PHEO should be investigated for associated genetic syndromes.
Investigation on the effect of blade patterns on continuous solid mixing performance

Previous experimental and computational work has demonstrated that the geometry of the impeller has a significant effect on the mixing performance of continuous powder mixers. In particular, different blade patterns using either all blades pushing the powder forward (‘forward pattern’) are less effective than patterns where some of the blades push the powder backwards (‘alternate pattern’). In this article, we use Discrete Element Method to investigate this issue, as well as to examine whether batch mixers can be used to estimate the cross-sectional mixing rate of continuous mixing process. Mixing and flow of particles are examined in simple geometries consisting of a cylindrical cross-section agitated by impellers. In these geometries, blades are designed ‘forward’ and ‘alternate’ to study different blade patterns. Periodic boundary conditions are used to approximate an idealised cross-section of a continuous mixer. In addition, to examine whether an experimentally realisable batch system could be used to validate these cross-sectional simulations, we examine mixing in geometries with solid end walls. Performance in these elemental systems is compared qualitatively in terms of radially averaged velocity vectors, and quantitatively in terms of the mixing rate and the fill level profile. Results show that end walls and symmetric blade pairs of the ‘alternate’ blade patterns lead to faster mixing. Non-symmetric elemental systems display both increased fill level uniformity and similar mixing performance for both blade patterns. Results demonstrate the need for caution when attempting to use batch mixing information to estimate the cross-sectional mixing rate of continuous powder mixers.