cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nutrients, body composition and exercise are related to change in bone mineral density in premenopausal women

This study determined relationships among total energy intake, nutrient intake, body composition, exercise group status, and annual rates of change (slopes) in bone mineral density in 66 Caucasian premenopausal women (mean age, 34.4 +/- 2.7) taking calcium supplements. Body composition components measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry included fat mass, soft tissue lean mass, and bone mineral density (g/cm2) of total body, spine (lumbar vertebrae 2-4), and three femur sites measured at baseline, 5, 12, and 18 mo. Nutrients were not significant variables in regression models predicting bone mineral density slopes (rates of change) at any femur site. The only significant variable in models predicting Ward's triangle bone mineral density slope was the initial fat mass and, for trochanter, exercise. Significant variables (P < 0.05) in models predicting total body bone mineral density slope included the initial fat mass and fat mass slope plus either vitamin A, carotene, fiber, magnesium, or phosphorus (R2 from 0.31 to 0.25) and fat mass slope plus sodium (R2 = 0.24). The significant variable in the model predicting L2-4 slope was energy intake (R2 = 0.17, P < 0.05). We conclude that nutrient intake, exercise, and body composition are related to bone mineral density rate of change and that relations among these variables vary by bone site.
Vascular Disrupting Activity of OXi8006 in Endothelial Cells and Its Phosphate Prodrug OXi8007 in Breast Tumor Xenografts in Vivo

Tubulin-binding, small-molecule vascular disrupting agents (VDAs) are anticancer agents that rapidly depolymerize microtubules, and cause a pronounced shutdown in blood flow to solid tumors while l...
Confocal Raman microspectroscopy discriminates live human metastatic melanoma and skin fibroblast cells

Confocal Raman microspectroscopy (CRM) continues to develop as a promising technique with possible clinical applications for the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers. CRM studies of single cells can provide information on the biochemical content of cancer cells in situ, potentially providing new biochemical signatures or markers of cancer cells. Here, we report a CRM study of single, living human metastatic melanoma cells (SK-Mel-2) and normal skin fibroblast cells (BJ) cultured and examined under identical experimental conditions. A total of almost 1200 Raman spectra were measured from more than 120 BJ and SK-Mel-2 cells using an inverted microscope with 647 nm laser excitation. Raman spectra were measured from within three distinct intracellular regions of the cells – cytoplasm, nucleoplasm, and nucleolus. When Raman spectra from each cell type were compared using principal components analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis with leave-one-dish-out cross-validation (LDA-CV), the two cell types were discriminated with 93% (cytoplasm), 98% (nucleolus), and 96% (nucleoplasm) accuracy. The main biochemical differences identified between the two cell types were higher RNA levels in the nucleoli of BJ cells and high amounts of lipid and collagen in the cytoplasm of SK-Mel-2 cells. For both cell types, higher levels of RNA were detected in the nucleoli versus the nucleoplasm. PCA with LDA-CV was 98% (cytoplasm), 93% (nucleoplasm), and 73% (nucleolus) accurate in identifying the intracellular region based on the Raman spectra from both cell types. No significant trend was observed when the data were analyzed with respect to cell passage number. Thus, CRM with PCA and LDA-CV successfully discriminated two skin cancer-relevant cell lines while detecting different amounts of nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins in distinct intracellular regions, further underscoring its potential as a clinical diagnostic tool. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cell replication in craniofacial periosteum: appositional vs. resorptive sites

The size and the shape of craniofacial bones results from periosteal activity, which can be either appositional or resorptive. The periosteum is often used as a source of graft material for osteogenesis, but differences in cellular makeup and proliferative capacity may render resorptive regions unsuitable for transplant. This study was undertaken to characterize the cells in appositional and resorptive periosteum, and to assess variation in proliferative activity. Young pigs (n = 9) were injected with bromodeoxyuridine to label replicating cells and killed 3 h later. The mandibular ramus, hard palate and zygomatic arch were examined for patterns of periosteal activity, and replicating cells were quantified in 16 appositional and eight resorptive regions. Sections were also reacted for markers of osteogenic (Runx2) and osteoclastic [CTR (calcitonin receptor), RANK, TRAP, CD14] lineage, and for an endothelial label (lectin). Replicating cells were often associated with the vasculature; most were unreactive for markers of differentiation. Although the fibrous layers of periosteum had fewer replicating cells per unit area than inner layers (P < 0.005), this was in part due to lower cellularity. Appositional periostea differed from resorptive periostea in having thicker fibrous layers (197 vs. 89 μm, P = 0.02) and higher replication density in the inner layers (606 vs. 329 labeled cells mm−2, P = 0.02). Osteoprogenitors were numerous in the inner layers of appositional but very scarce in resorptive periostea. Multinucleated osteoclasts were never seen in appositional regions, but mononuclear cells positive for osteoclastic lineage markers were plentiful, especially in the most rapidly growing areas. These cells appeared to be macrophages accompanying a growth rate so rapid as to resemble a response to trauma. In conclusion, appositional and resorptive periostea differ strikingly in morphology and cell content. Resorptive periosteum is a poor choice for osteogenic grafting.
Expanding the meaning of and applications for data mining

Data mining is the synthesis of several technology areas, including statistical analysis, artificial intelligence (including machine learning and natural language processing), visualization, and database management. Analysis via data mining has been used in the financial and retailing industries. More recently, data mining has been used in law enforcement and in e-commerce applications. There continue to be many new areas for improvement and exploration in the area of data mining.
Essential lysine residues within transmembrane helix 1 of diphtheria toxin facilitate COPI binding and catalytic domain entry

The translocation of the diphtheria toxin catalytic domain from the lumen of early endosomes into the cytosol of eukaryotic cells is an essential step in the intoxication process. We have previously shown that the in vitro translocation of the catalytic domain from the lumen of toxin pre-loaded endosomal vesicles to the external medium requires the addition of cytosolic proteins including coatomer protein complex I (COPI) to the reaction mixture. Further, we have shown that transmembrane helix 1 plays an essential, but as yet undefined role in the entry process. We have used both site-directed mutagenesis and a COPI complex precipitation assay to demonstrate that interaction(s) between at least three lysine residues in transmembrane helix 1 are essential for both COPI complex binding and the delivery of the catalytic domain into the target cell cytosol. Finally, a COPI binding domain swap was used to demonstrate that substitution of the lysine-rich transmembrane helix 1 with the COPI binding portion of the p23 adaptor cytoplasmic tail results in a mutant that displays full wild-type activity. Thus, irrespective of sequence, the ability of transmembrane helix 1 to bind to COPI complex appears to be the essential feature for catalytic domain delivery to the cytosol.
Do media portrayals of obesity influence support for weight-related medical policy?

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this research was to examine the impact of nonstigmatizing visual portrayals of obesity on support for a discriminatory weight-based medical policy. METHOD Participants read an online news story about a policy to deny fertility treatment to obese women that was accompanied by a nonstigmatizing, stigmatizing, or no image of an obese couple. A balanced discussion of the policy was presented, with information both questioning the policy as discriminatory and supporting the policy because of weight-related medical complications. RESULTS Results revealed that participants who viewed the nonstigmatizing image were less supportive of the policy to deny obese women fertility treatment and recommended the policy less strongly than participants who viewed the stigmatizing image. Furthermore, weaker perceptions of medical risk mediated the effect of the nonstigmatizing image on policy ratings. CONCLUSION The findings indicate that simply eliminating stigmatizing media portrayals of obesity may help reduce bias.
A role-theoretic approach to product symbolism: Mapping a consumption constellation

Abstract The relationship between sets of products and social roles has long been discussed by researchers. In this paper, a construct termed the consumption constellation is proposed to formalize this discussion. The properties of consumption constellations are mathematically operationalized, and their interrelationships are discussed. These measures are used to explore product/role relationships in a large-scale empirical example, based on the annual survey conducted by the Simmons Market Research Bureau. Using a consumption constellation associated with the stereo- typical “yuppie” role, a total of 1,197 participants in the Simmons data base were selected who fit predetermined demographic criteria. A series of conditional probabilities was calculated to assess the extent of joint consumption of selected products hypothesized to comprise this particular constellation, both within the specified sample and in the population as a whole (i.e., the entire Simmons data base). Results of these analyses provided evidence for the existence of joint consumption patterns of products related symbolically rather than functionally (e.g., gourmet ice cream and foreign cars). Further consumption constellation measurement techniques and conceptual issues also are considered.
Cleaner production technologies in desizing of cotton fabric

Desizing is one of the key processes for the pretreatment of cotton fabric wet processing. Prior to dyeing and printing, it is essential to remove the sizes coated on fabric. Cleaner production technologies, using which hazardous material is substituted with -amylase, an eco-friendly material, are applied for desizing of cotton fabric. The enzymatic desizing process is human-, machine-, and environmentally-friendly. Four different types of machines were used to investigate the aspects and results of enzymatic desizing. Unlike acid and oxidative desizing, biodegradation of sizes does not damage fabric and emit greenhouse gases (CO2), respectively. The highest quality of desizing was observed by using winch technology. The degree of desizing on TEGEWA scale was 8. The amount of desizing agent used was 0.5–4.0 kg/1000 liters. In winch (batch) desizing, the degree of whiteness was 76%, which is 1.5 times higher than grey fabric, but pad steam (continuous) desizing process showed 69% degree of whiteness, which...
Introduction to the special issue on first ladies

First ladies have overseen historic renovations to the Executive Mansion, stumped long and hard on the campaign trail, edited presidential speeches, advised on cabinet appointments, and championed ...
East and West: Travel and communication under alternate regimes; a research note

Abstract Using information supplied to international agencies, communication and transportation patterns of Communist and Post-Communist European states are compared with those of non-communist Europe. East European states under Communist rule tended to emphasize public—more easily “scripted,” observed and controlled media and conveyances—over private ones. This emphasis was substantially grounded in obsessive political security concerns among communist regimes. The performance of Post-Communist states indicates a significant shift toward the patterns of non-communist Western Europe and coincides with political regime changes moving East Europe closer to the pluralist West. Diffusion of cars, telephones, railroad traffic, radio, television, newspapers and cinema are analyzed.
Optical techniques for identifying animal and plant pathogens

Abstract The contemporary revolution in biochemistry, bio-physics, and medicine is leading to an understanding of how biological entities operate in varied environments. One consequence is the increased understanding of antibodies, fluorescence markers, special substrates, and uses of the polymerase chain reaction process with biological markers. In particular, these efforts are leading to pathogen detection systems that are lower in cost, more biochemically specific, more accurate, faster, smaller, less demanding of infrastructure, and more accessible to more people than ever before. Most of these systems use optical techniques. Examples of miniature, portable detection systems based upon nucleotide amplification and on fluorescence sorting, concentration, and detection are discussed. These are applicable to the detection of pathogens and related toxins that appear in medical, agricultural, and national security situations confronting us today.
Synthesis, characterization, and application of fluorescent lipobeads for imaging and sensing in single cells

This paper describes the synthesis and characterization of submicron phospholipid coated polystyrene particles, named lipobeads, with pH sensing capability. The phospholipids used to coat the particles are labeled with fluorescein and tetramethylrhodamine, which serves as a referencing fluorophore for increased accuracy of the pH measurements. The synthesis of the pH sensing lipobeads is realized by the covalent attachment of the fluorescent phospholipids to the surface of styrene-divinylbenzene micron or submicron sized particles. The pH dynamic range of the sensing particles is between pH 5.5 and 7 with a sensitivity of 0.1 pH units and they are photostable under the experimental conditions used in these studies. The fluorescent lipobeads are used to monitor pH changes in volume limited samples and to measure the pH of single macrophages. The lipobeads are ingested by the macrophages and directed to lysosomes, which are the cellular organelles involved in the phagocytosis process. Despite the high lyososomal levels of digestive enzymes and acidity, the absorbed particles remain stable for 6 hours in the cells when the cells are stored in a PBS buffer solution at pH 7.4.
F0 and F1 parts of ATP synthases from Clostridium thermoautotrophicum and Escherichia coli are not functionally compatible.

F1-stripped membrane vesicles from Clostridium thermoautotrophicum and Escherichia coli were reconstituted with F1-ATPases from both bacteria. Reconstituted F1F0-ATPase complexes were catalytically active, i.e. capable of hydrolyzing ATP. Homologous-type ATPase complexes having F0 and F1 parts of ATP synthases from the same origin were DCCD sensitive and supported ATP-driven enhancement of anilinonaphthalene sulfonate (ANS) fluorescence. Hybrid-type ATPase complexes having F0 and F1 parts of ATP synthases from different origins were neither DCCD sensitive nor did they support ATP-driven enhancement of ANS fluorescence. Analyzing these results it has been demonstrated that the F0 and F1 parts of ATP synthases of these two bacteria are not functionally compatible.
Measurement of the pseudo-stark effect in Pr3+:LaF3 using population hole burning and optical free-induction decay

Abstract Measurements of the DC pseudo-Stark effect are reported for the 1D2←3H4 transition of Pr3+:LaF3 at 5925.2 A. These were made by observing the electric field induced splitting of holes burned in the inhomogeneous line by a single mode cw dye laser, a technique that allows precise measurements of small splittings to be made even in relatively small applied fields. For fields parallel to the local C2 axis of Pr3+ sites we find a Stark splitting of 0.304±0.005 MHz/V cm-1, which corresponds to a dipole moment difference between ground and excited states of 0.056 Debye. This effect enabled us to observe optical free induction decay (FID) by Stark switching. The FID singal contained two beat frequencies due to sets of Pr3+ ions made inequivalent by application of the Stark field.
Developmental regulation of D-β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase in rat liver and brain

Abstract The activities of ketone-metabolizing enzymes in rat brain increase 3- to 5-fold during the suckling period before decreasing to the adult level after weaning. We have observed that a similar developmental pattern also exists for D-β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (BDH) in rat liver. Utilizing antibodies prepared against the purified protein we determined that the changes in BDH activities in both brain and liver are due to changes in the amount of BDH in the mitochondria. In vitro translations of isolated RNA followed by immunoprecipitation revealed that the increase in BDH activity and content was correlated with an increase in the level of functional BDH-mRNA in both liver and brain. Hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, D-β-; Developmental regulation
Robust MVDR Estimation via Polynomial Rooting for MC-CDMA Carrier Frequency Offset

In this letter, we present a blind carrier frequency offset (CFO) estimator by exploiting the polynomial rooting technique for multicarrier-code division multiple access (MC-CDMA) systems. Relative high accuracy and low-complexity to the CFO estimation can be achieved by rooting a polynomial. Simulation results are provided for illustrating the effectiveness of the proposed blind polynomial rooting estimator.
Complex-time path-integration with time-dependent Hamiltonians for extended molecular systems

Abstract Transition rates in extended molecular systems are expressed in terms of collisional time-correlation functions (TCFs) and are calculated from time-dependent transition amplitudes within a time-dependent self-consistent-field model which separates a system into primary and secondary regions. The primary region dynamics is obtained in terms of propagators for the time-dependent Hamiltonian of the primary region. A general path-integral procedure is developed introducing complex times, and an efficient matrix multiplication technique is described for generating the propagators. The procedure is applied to the photodissociation of the C-I bond in CH3I, to calculate the time evolution of transition amplitudes, TCFs, and cross-sections.
The state and the market, their functions and failures in the history of economic development thought

Outlines the ideas incorporated in “development economics” and criticizes the lack of distinction made by some writers between development and economic growth. Asks whether underdeveloped countries really need a different economic theory from Western Europe and suggests that growth (in gross national product) and development (i.e. structural change) are actually complementary processes. Reviews various theories on the causes of underdevelopment (e.g. market failure, government failure) and strategies to cure it (e.g. government intervention, private initiative, market mechanism); and cites some examples of successful positive intervention.
Parenthood or Nonparenthood: A Comparison of Intentional Families

A sample of the intentionally childless was compared with a sample of parents who exerted an equal amount of control over their family size by planning the number, timing, and spacing of their children. While both the childless and the parents expressed high levels of marital and life satisfaction, the intentionally childless were significantly more satisfied with their marital relationships. The childless were less conforming, had higher self-esteem, and were equally as empathic as the parents. The childless and the parents were markedly similar with regard to background factors and in their perceptions of their childhood and of their parents' relationship.
Incorporation of Photochromic Molecule into the Functional Loop L5 of Kinesin for the Purpose of Photo-Regulation

ATP driven molecular motor kinesin has several unique loops, which may determine the characteristic properties of kinesin. L5 is one of the unique loops locates in the vicinity of ATP binding site. We have previously demonstrated that the point mutations in the loop drastically affect ATPase activity. Moreover, it seems that the plus-end directed kinesins have longer L5 loop than that of minus-end directed kinesins. Therefore, the loop may determine the directionality of kinesin. Rice plant kinesin K16 has much shorter L5 than that of conventional kinesin. We have prepared the K16 mutant Q101C and H102C that have a single reactive cysteine reside in the L5. SH group reactive photochromic molecule composed of azobenzene derivative, N- (4-phenylazophenyl) maleimide (PAM) was incorporated into the cysteine residue in L5 to induce conformational change of L5 by ultraviolet (UV) and visible (VIS) light irradiation. The kinesin modified by PAM slightly altered the ATPase activity by UV and VIS light irradiation reversibly. We have also focused on the mitotic kinesin Eg5 that has an unusually elongated L5. It is known that the L5 of Eg5 has an important role to stabilize sterically its specific inhibitors (monastrol, STLC) that bind to the pocket near the ATPase site. We designed Eg5 mutants, E116C, E118C, D130C, A133C and Y125C to introduce photochromic molecule into the L5 of Eg5. The Effect of photoisomerization of azobenzene derivatives incorporated into L5 upon UV-VIS light irradiation for the inhibition of ATPase activity by monastrol or STLC was studied.
Metabolic engineering of monoterpene biosynthesis in tomato fruits via introduction of the non-canonical substrate neryl diphosphate

Recently it was shown that monoterpenes in tomato trichomes (Solanum lycopersicum) are synthesized by phellandrene synthase 1 (PHS1) from the non-canonical substrate neryl diphosphate (NPP), the cis-isomer of geranyl diphosphate (GPP). As PHS1 accepts both NPP and GPP substrates forming different monoterpenes, it was overexpressed in tomato fruits to test if NPP is also available in a tissue highly active in carotenoid production. However, transgenic fruits overexpressing PHS1 produced only small amounts of GPP-derived PHS1 monoterpene products, indicating the absence of endogenous NPP. Therefore, NPP formation was achieved by diverting the metabolic flux from carotenoids via expression of tomato neryl diphosphate synthase 1 (NDPS1). NDPS1 transgenic fruits produced NPP-derived monoterpenes, including nerol, neral and geranial, while displaying reduced lycopene content. NDPS1 co-expression with PHS1 resulted in a monoterpene blend, including β-phellandrene, similar to that produced from NPP by PHS1 in vitro and in trichomes. Unexpectedly, PHS1×NDPS1 fruits showed recovery of lycopene levels compared to NDPS1 fruits, suggesting that redirection of metabolic flux is only partially responsible for the reduction in carotenoids. In vitro assays demonstrated that NPP serves as an inhibitor of geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase, thus its consumption by PHS1 leads to recovery of lycopene levels. Monoterpenes produced in PHS1×NDPS1 fruits contributed to direct plant defense negatively affecting feeding behavior of the herbivore Helicoverpa zea and displaying antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea. These results show that NPP-derived terpenoids can be produced in plant tissues; however, NPP has to be consumed to avoid negative impacts on plant metabolism.
Activated protein C is neuroprotective and mediates new blood vessel formation and neurogenesis after controlled cortical impact.

Objective Activated protein C (APC) is neuroprotective in stroke models and promotes postischemic neovascularization and neurogenesis. We used a controlled cortical impact (CCI) in mice to determine the effects of APC on neuroprotection and angiogenesis and neurogenesis after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods Mice were given (1) single-dose APC (0.8 mg/kg intraperitoneally) 15 minutes after injury, (2) multidose APC (0.8 mg/kg intraperitoneally) 15 minutes and 6 to 48 hours after injury, or (3) vehicle. We then assessed the effects of APC on posttraumatic motor function with the rotarod and wire grip and beam balance tasks, and we determined the lesion volumes and studied the formation of new blood vessels and markers of neurogenesis. Results Mice treated with single-dose or multidose APC, compared with vehicle, showed significantly improved motor function on all tests. In the single-dose and multidose APC treatment groups, at 7 days after treatment, lesion volume was significantly decreased by 30% and 50%, respectively. Multidose APC, but not single-dose APC, increased new blood vessel formation as shown by CD105(+)/Ki-67(+) double immunostaining by nearly 2-fold at 7 days. Multidose APC also promoted posttraumatic proliferation of neuroblasts in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and their migration from the SVZ to the perilesional area. Conclusion Activated protein C improves functional outcome and is neuroprotective after TBI. It also promotes angiogenesis and survival and migration of neuroblasts from the SVZ to the perilesional area, but the exact role of these brain repair mechanisms remains to be determined. The present findings suggest that APC therapy may hold a significant therapeutic potential for TBI.
N = 2 supergravity action in terms of N = 1 superfields

Abstract We construct the full N = 2 supergravity action in terms of N = 1 supergravity and matter fields.
Introduction to Special Issue on PV Systems Performance and Reliability

The papers in this special issue have been selected from the systems and balance-of- systems sessions at the 1998 Photovoltaic Performance and Reliability Workshop. The workshop was held November 3-5, 1998 and hosted by the Florida Solar Energy Center, Cocoa Beach, Florida under sponsorship of the US National Center for Photovoltaics (National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories). The topics and issues addressed by these papers were identified in an invited review paper on PV systems by the guest editors. Their work was published earlier this year in Volume 7, Number 1 of Progress in Photovoltaics ('Photovoltaic Systems: An End-of-Millennium Review'). Experts in the PV community were asked to make presentations on these topics at the workshop. The papers that follow are the results of that effort. The papers are organized by topic: (1) codes and standards; (2) reliability; (3) design issues; and (4) commercialization.
Optimal foraging and growth in bluegills.

Two models of foraging behaviour (optimal prey selection and random prey selection) were used to calculate the potential net energy intake of bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) in a small Michigan lake. These predictions were then compared to the actual growth exhibited by bluegills in the lake. Predictions of net energy gain derived from optimal foraging criteria were significantly correlated with the seasonal gain in mass by the fish; both energy gain and growth were positively related to bluegill length. Predictions of net energy intake based upon non-selective foraging (i.e. prey eaten as encountered) were not significantly correlated with bluegill growth. Comparing the net energy intake of bluegills feeding optimally versus non-selectively demonstrates that optimal prey selection increases average energy gain by 4 to 10 fold. This result illustrates the strong evolutionary advantage afforded to foragers that maximize net energy intake in a natural environment. Finally, the potential usefulness of optimal foraging models to the study of species and/or size-class interactions is discussed and a heuristic example pertaining to the development of “stunted” populations in fishes is provided.
Understanding Nitrate Reactions with Zerovalent Iron Using Tafel Analysis and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy

This study investigated the reaction mechanisms of nitrate (NO3-) with zerovalent iron (ZVI) media under conditions relevantto groundwatertreatment using permeable reactive barriers (PRB). Reaction rates of NO3- with freely corroding and with cathodically or anodically polarized iron wires were measured in batch reactors. Tafel analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to investigate the reactions occurring on the iron surfaces. Reduction of NO3- by corroding iron resulted in near stoichiometric production of NO2-, which did not measurably react in the absence of added Fe(II). Increasing NO3- concentrations resulted in increasing corrosion currents. However, EIS and Tafel analyses indicated that there was little direct reduction of NO3- at the ZVI surface, despite the presence of water reduction. This behavior can be attributed to formation of a microporous oxide on the iron surfaces that blocked reduction of NO3- and NO2- but did not block water reduction. This finding is consistent with previous observations that NO3- impedes reduction of organic compounds by ZVI. Nitrite concentrations greater than 4 mM resulted in anodic passivation of the iron, but passivation was not observed with NO3- concentrations as high as 96 mM. This indicates that the passivating oxide preventing NO3- reduction was permeable toward cation migration. Since reaction with Fe(0) can be excluded asthe mechanism for NO3- and NO2- reduction, reaction with Fe(II)-containing oxides coating the iron surface is the most likely reaction mechanism. This suggests that short-term batch tests requiring little turnover of reactive sites on the iron surface may overestimate long-term rates of NO3- removal because the effects of passivation are not apparent in batch tests conducted with high initial Fe(II) to NO3- ratios.
Efficient analysis of transient heat transfer problems exhibiting sharp thermal gradients

In this paper, heat transfer problems with sharp spatial gradients are analyzed using the Generalized Finite Element Method with global-local enrichment functions (GFEM gl). With this approach, scale-bridging enrichment functions are generated on the fly, providing specially-tailored enrichment functions for the problem to be analyzed with no a-priori knowledge of the exact solution. In this work, a decomposition of the linear system of equations is formulated for both steady-state and transient heat transfer problems, allowing for a much more computationally efficient analysis of the problems of interest. With this algorithm, only a small portion of the global system of equations, i.e., the hierarchically added enrichments, need to be re-computed for each loading configuration or time-step. Numerical studies confirm that the condensation scheme does not impact the solution quality, while allowing for more computationally efficient simulations when large problems are considered. We also extend the GFEM gl to allow for the use of hexahedral elements in the global domain, while still using tetrahedral elements in the local domain, to allow for automatic localized mesh refinement without the use of constrained approximations. Simulations are run with the use of linear and quadratic hexahedral and tetrahedral elements in the global domain. Convergence studies indicate that the use of a different partition of unity (PoU) in the global (hexahedral elements) and local (tetrahedral elements) domains does not adversely impact the solution quality.
Dual contraceptive use among adolescents and young adults: correlates and implications for condom use and sexually transmitted infection outcomes

Background Simultaneous condom and hormonal contraception usage (‘dual method use’) maximises protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI), although there is concern that promotion of this strategy could result in diminished condom use and inadvertently increase STI risk. In this study, we (1) assessed how the use of dual methods, versus condoms alone, related to STI and consistency of condom use and (2) described the correlates of dual use. Methods A sample of 1450 young people aged 12–25 years were surveyed and screened for chlamydia and gonorrhoea at non-clinical sites in two high morbidity Californian counties in 2002–2003. Differences in STI prevalence and reported consistency of condom use were assessed for ‘condom only’ and ‘dual method’ users. Correlates of dual use were analysed via multivariate polytomous logistic regression. Results Condom only and dual method users did not significantly differ in terms of STI prevalence or reported consistency of condom use. Sex, age, race and relationship tenure were significant correlates of dual use. Discussion In these observational data, dual method use did not detrimentally affect STI risk. If interpreted alongside each subgroups’ risk patterns for STI and unplanned pregnancy, the correlates of dual use can inform STI and pregnancy prevention interventions.
Vanadium retention in rat tissues following acute exposures to different dose levels

Male Wistar rats were given vanadyl trichloride (48 VOCl3) ip in doses of V ranging from 0.1 to 8 mg/kg and their tissues were collected 1 and 5 d after the injection. V was distributed in the order bone > kidney > liver > spleen > intestines > stomach > muscle > testis > lung > brain. Residues of V in tissues declined rapidly between 24 h and 5 d after administration. The tissue: blood ratios of V were greater than unity for bone, kidney, liver, and spleen and near unity for all other organs except the brain. Brain levels of V were found to be considerably lower than blood in all cases. V residues were linearly related to dose in most organs when the dose was below 2 mg/kg. At 8 mg/kg, however, liver and kidney showed consistently higher amounts than would be expected from the linear relationship at the low doses. Subcellular distribution of V in liver and kidney indicated that it was associated with nuclei, mitochondria, microsomes, and primarily with high‐molecular‐weight proteins in the soluble fracti...
Hydrogenation of coal possessing chemically bonded metals and the use of polystyrene as a model

Abstract By applying known techniques for preparing polystyrene-bound transition metal catalysts, both cobalt and tin complexes have been attached to bituminous coal via the metal atoms. Samples possessing the same metals physically adsorbed on the coal were also prepared. All samples were treated at 390 °C under 13 · 8 MPa (2000 psi) hydrogen pressure. The metal-bound coal samples gave better liquefaction with less hydrogen consumption than was observed with the samples incorporating adsorbed metals. In order ultimately to provide more information on the role and fate of catalysts in coal hydrogenation, cross-linked polystyrene has been used as a model substrate.
Organic acidaemia and Hyperammonaemia: review.

Recent clinical and experimental evidence on the effects of organic acids in producing or ameliorating hyperammonaemia is reviewed. The importance of hepatic mitochondrialN-acetylglutamate and its precursors, glutamate and acetyl-CoA, in the control of ureagenesis and thus blood ammonia levels is emphasized by recent work. The hypothesis is proposed that protein loads stimulate urea cycle activity via glutamate-induced changes inN-acetylglutamate concentration, while the effects of organic acids on ureagenesis are related in a predictable way to their effects on hepatic concentrations of acetyl-CoA.
SU-GG-T-253: Need for Robust Treatment Planning and Review Tools

Purpose: This paper demonstrates the need for tools to review plan robustness (PR) of the IMRTtreatment plans (TP); a special case of head and neck IMRT is presented. Methods and Materials: Patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the base of tongue was simulated on a slant board and an IMRT plan was generated to deliver 70Gy in 2Gy fractions using Pinnacle treatment planning system (TPS). Due to lack of clearance, posterior beams were avoided and planned with anterior and lateral beams. TP was reviewed and approved by an IMRTphysicist and the attending physician. During QA plan generation on a box phantom, unacceptable hotspots were noted on the lateral aspect. This is because the lateral‐beams were not opened to cover the posterior‐aspect of the target‐volume due to field‐size limitation. Therefore, optimizer heavily weighted the anterior beams to cover posterior‐aspect of the target‐volume. Results: This plan was fixed by opening the lateral beams to cover the posterior‐aspect of the target‐volume. If it was treated in the presence of systematic lateral setup error, this clinically approved TP could have lead to serious skin inflammation. Plan review couldn't catch this error because most TPS doesn't compute dose outside skin. For those who use just planar dosimetry measurements for IMRT QA would have missed this error. This demands the need for review‐tools that can check the TP robustness in the presence of setup errors. We checked the robustness of our plan by shifting the isocenter to simulate setup‐errors and computing the dose and comparing the DVH indices. We propose using PR check for all clinical patients and this can be easily implemented using pearl scripts in Pinnacle TPS. Conclusions: As the radiation delivery techniques get complex, PR check should be part of the plan review process to avoid serious treatment errors.
Laparoscopic removal of a large gastric trichobezoar in a 4-year-old girl.

Background: Standard treatment of large gastric bezoars not amenable to medical or endoscopic management is surgical removal. The optimal operative approach, laparotomy versus laparoscopy, is a contested subject. Though laparoscopic removal has been described, it remains a relatively new technique for surgical management with outcome literature limited to case reports. In addition, currently described laparoscopic techniques often involve limited midline laparotomy incisions or 3 cm extensions of port sites. Methods: The following describes the case of a 4-yearold girl with a large gastric trichobezoar. Results: The gastric trichobezoar was successfully removed through a 12-mm left lower quadrant trocar incision cosmetically hidden within a skin crease.
Transatlantic relations and the global economy

Abstract An Atlantic partnership has served for half a century to foster economic cooperation, but it is at risk today. This paper examines the reasons, including the growing importance of Asia, the changing nature of the economic problems facing the Atlantic partners, and limits on the scope for policy coordination resulting from changes in views about the best use of key policy instruments. The paper then proposes institutional reforms: The G-7 Summits should be replaced by informal meetings between leaders of the industrial countries and those of systemically important developing countries. European representation in the IMF should be consolidated, and the Fund’s Executive Board should be reorganized.
Phenogroups and quantitative allelic expression for rabbit serum 2 -macroglobulin allotypes.

The four allotypic specificities, z1, z2, y3, and y4, of rabbit α2-macroglobulin (α2M) were found to be inherited as three phenogroups, z1y3, z1y4, or z2y3. The phenogroup inheritance can be viewed as reflecting the close linkage of two loci, i.e., the Mtz locus with the z1 and z2 alleles and the Mty locus with the y3 and y4 alleles. Radioimmunoassay of α2M by an indirect precipitation method confirmed our earlier studies by a direct method showing that nearly all molecules of z1 or z2 homozygotes possess either z1 or z2, respectively, and that most molecules in the heterozygote are hybrids with both z2 and z2. Unlabeled α2M from homozygotes and heterozygotes was used to competitively inhibit the reaction of anti-z1 or anti-z2 with labeled α2M. This revealed that z1z2 heterozygotes possess approximately 35% of the z1 and 64% of the z2 determinants found in the respective homozygotes. These results resemble previous observations with the y3 and y4 allotypes which indicated an unequal contribution of allelic genes in the formation of rabbit α2M and the lack of allelic exclusion in most of the molecules. Unlike immunoglobulins and low-density lipoproteins, hybrid α2M molecules form by the interaction of homologous chromosomes.
II-VI compounds as the top absorbers in tandem solar cell structures

Abstract Efficiencies of 19% have been achieved with copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) solar cells with a band gap of about 1.1 eV. Simulations indicate that if these are combined with a transparent top cell of band gap in the range 1.6–2.0 eV and with comparable efficiency, tandem efficiencies in the 25–30% range can be attained. We are developing II–VI based top cells for this application on both glass as well as lightweight substrates for space applications. To achieve these objectives, short circuit currents (Jscs) in the range 18–19 mA/cm2 are needed. We have attained internal Jscs in this range for 1.7 eV CdSe absorbers, and external Jscs are rapidly approaching these values. Single-phase Cd1−XZnXTe (CZT; EG = 1.6–1.8 eV) films have been deposited by co-deposition on glass and flexible polyimide film substrates from the binary compounds using two deposition technologies. CZT absorber performance is presently limited by poor transport properties and influence from the contact layers. To develop open circuit voltages (Vocs) in the range of 1 V, a nearly degenerate, transparent p-type contact is needed. We have focused our efforts on ZnSe and ZnTe for this contact and thus far have attained Vocs approaching 500 mV for ZnSe/CdSe and 800 mV for ZnTe/CZT. Transmission of 80% of the low energy light to be utilized by the CIGS bottom cell has also been demonstrated.
California local government contracting after proposition 13

Recent fiscal constraints have forced many local governmental jurisdictions to search for alternative service delivery approaches. One approach frequently discussed is contracting out services to the private sector. While local governments in the state of California have been involved in such contracting for many years, the fiscal pressures which brought abut the passage of Proposition 13 have refocused increased attention to activities in this area. This article focuses on local government activities with the private sector, the reasons for deciding to provide services through the contract method, assesses probable outcomes to contracting out, and develops three future scenarios on the issue.
STAT3 mutation in the original patient with Job's syndrome.

To the Editor: In 1966, a report on two unrelated young girls who had had recurrent staphylococcal abscesses since infancy was introduced with the biblical quote, “So went Satan forth from the pres...
Understanding the nature of surface nitrates in BaO/γ-Al2O3 NOx storage materials : A combined experimental and theoretical study

The special role of the interface between the active catalytic phase (metal or metal oxide) and the oxide support in determining the properties of practical catalysts has long been recognized; however, it is still very poorly understood in most systems
Sum Rules in the Dispersion Theory of Nuclear Reactions

In the first five sections the dispersion theory is developed with an internal region $V$ whose boundary $S$ is quite close to the nuclear surface. Two types of quantities then occur: those like the derivative matrix $R$, which connect the values and derivatives of the wave function at $S$, and those like the collision matrix $U$ which give the asymptotic behavior of the wave function. These latter are, of course, independent of the position of $S$. Because of the proximity of $S$ to the nuclear surface, the wave function in the closed channels and its derivative remain appreciable at $S$. They may, however, be eliminated from the formalism, and this is done in Sec. II, leading to a reduced $R$ which connects the values and derivatives of the wave function in the open channels only. In the next section this reduced $R$ is used to obtain expressions for the $S$-independent quantities, in particular, for the collision matrix. These expressions are given more explicit, but approximate form in Sec. IV. The development shows that the quantity, which in the usual formulas for the cross sections is interpreted as the nuclear radius, need not be equal to this at all, but is the distance at which two opposite effects compensate. The fifth section gives exact expressions for the poles and residues of some $S$-independent quantities, which are then compared with the poles and residues of the approximate expressions of the previous chapter. In this way criteria are derived for the accuracy of these approximate expressions.The last sections contain derivations of two sum rules for the parameters in the original $R$. The consequences of these sum rules are traced for the reduced $R$ and for the $S$-independent quantities, in the light of the development of the first five sections. The first sum rule gives a maximum for the partial widths of levels, while the second leads to the well-known proportionality of reduced level width and level spacing. The meaning and validity of this is discussed in some detail, both for the single particle and many particle pictures.
Do Anthropocentric Indirect Arguments Have Any Scientific Validity? A Commentary on Anthropocentric Indirect Arguments for Environmental Protection, by K. Elliot

Dr. Elliot argues that environmental protection and climate change issues would find a larger and more supportive audience if presented in less apocalyptical terms and more in a context in which mi...
Immunogenetics and immunology in transplantation

Advances in immunogenetics and histocompatibility have facilitated the clinical transplantation of solid organs and tissues. Improved definition of HLA antigens, alleles, and haplotypes has clarified the diversity of the HLA system among different racial/ethnic populations. Knowledge of allele and haplotypes frequencies derived from these studies can be applied to the estimates of transplant compatibility and the likelihood finding suitable donors. Humoral sensitization that has been a major barrier to transplantation is being successfully treated with desensitization and paired donor exchanges. Sensitive solid phase immunoassays for HLA-specific antibodies permit analyses that guide both desensitization and donor exchanges through antibody monitoring, virtual crossmatches, and detection of cryptic sensitization. Ongoing studies are investigating the mechanisms underlying the down-regulation of donor HLA-specific antibodies.
The use of urethane sponge matrix to assess in vivo recovery of murine cellular immunity following syngeneic bone marrow transplantation.

Abstract A unique method for assessing the in vivo recovery of cellular immunity following sublethal irradiation and syngeneic bone marrow transplantation of CBA/J mice is described. This method employs the serial surgical implantation of a urethane sponge matrix followed by impregnation of the sponge matrix with alloantigen. Sponge matrices were harvested from each mouse subject at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks post transplnatation with and without treatment with interleukin-2. Recovery of cellular immunity was assessed as a function of cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity via cell-mediated lympholysis using chromium labeled targets. Repetitive procedures of implantation and removal of the matrices from the same animal were surgically feasible and were exceptionally well tolerated by the animals with insignificant morbidity thereby permitting continuous monitoring of immunologic recovery. Although the results of treatment with interleukin-2 were inconclusive, this method provides a sensitive, technically manageable means by which to assess an antigenic response in vivo at predetermined time intervals utilizing the same mouse subject. The method additionally affords the potential of being applicable to the in vivo assessment and manipulation of other aspects of the immune response.
Incorporating Pharmacogenomics into Practice

The goal for this issue of the Journal of Pharmacy Practice is to provide an overview of pharmacogenomics and highlight research done in select therapeutic areas such as oncology, psychiatry, cardi...