cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tuberculosis epidemiology in the Asia–Pacific region

Abstract: The Asia–Pacific region accounts for about 20% of the global burden of tuberculosis (TB). However, there are a wide variety of TB problems between countries and areas. This variety could be described in three dimensions: (i) historical trends of the TB epidemics, closely related to the advent of industrialization or urbanization; (ii) success in modern TB control in the early days; and (iii) expansion of the directly observed therapy, short course (DOTS) strategy during the past 20 years. Moreover, these dimensions have been subject to the ‘health infrastructure’ based on such social goods as people's education, economic standards, and social security or stability. The Asia–Pacific Region offers very good examples to illustrate the roles of these factors in leading to such a variety of TB problems as seen today. Thus, this region was the first to achieve the global target of DOTS by the end of 2005, that is to detect 70% of patients and to treat them with DOTS, and to successfully cure 85% of those detected. However, we should remember that we are currently challenged by TB combined with HIV infection and AIDS; TB with drug-resistance, especially multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extensively drug resistant (XDR) forms; TB in people with special risk factors, for example diabetes and senility; and other medical and socioeconomic problems. At the same time, we have to be careful about the premature loss of people's interest in TB, due to illusion or unfounded optimism, especially among medical professionals and the government.
Los Angeles and the Chicago School: Invitation to a Debate

Until very recently, debates about urban structure have been dominated by the precepts of the ‘Chicago School,’ which include the notion that the city is a coherent regional system where the center...
Interaction of histamine H2-receptor antagonists with GABA and benzodiazepine binding sites in the CNS

The histamine H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine potently inhibited [3H]muscimol and enhanced [3H]flunitrazepam binding in membranes prepared from several brain regions in the rat, including the dorsal raphe nucleus. As further examined in cortical membranes, this effect on both GABA and benzodiazepine binding sites was specific for imidazole-derived H2-receptor antagonists (potency: cimetidine greater than metiamide greater than tiotidine) and not observed with either several H1-receptor antagonists or histamine. These data indicate a striking similarity between the actions of cimetidine (and other imidazole-derived H2-receptor antagonists) and GABA on binding parameters at the GABA receptor complex.
A geometric framework for nonconvex optimization duality using augmented lagrangian functions

We provide a unifying geometric framework for the analysis of general classes of duality schemes and penalty methods for nonconvex constrained optimization problems. We present a separation result for nonconvex sets via general concave surfaces. We use this separation result to provide necessary and sufficient conditions for establishing strong duality between geometric primal and dual problems. Using the primal function of a constrained optimization problem, we apply our results both in the analysis of duality schemes constructed using augmented Lagrangian functions, and in establishing necessary and sufficient conditions for the convergence of penalty methods.
“PEOPLE WHO DESERVE IT”: JOZEF TISO AND THE PRESIDENTIAL EXEMPTION

Between March and October of 1942, Slovakia deported the majority of its Jews to extermination camps in German-occupied Poland. Since then, critics and apologists of the nominally independent Nazi satellite state have argued bitterly over who was to blame. Did the Slovaks act voluntarily or under German pressure? If the latter, were they in any position to do otherwise? With equal vigor, the two sides have clashed over whether the Slovaks realized they were participating in genocide, whether they acted to limit or stop the deportations once the truth came out, and whether, compared with other German-occupied or German-allied countries, Slovakia succeeded in saving a relatively high percentage of its Jewry.
CSF neurotransmitter metabolites in comatose head injury patients during changes in their clinical state.

The main metabolites of noradrenaline, serotonin, and dopanine, methoxyhydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA), and homovanillic acid (HVA), respectively, were assessed in CSF samples of patients in coma after severe head injury, the first days after the accident and again after an improvement (13 patients) or deterioration (7 patients) in their clinical state, evaluated by the score on the Glasgow Coma Scale.
Passage of Decidual Cast Following Poor Compliance with Oral Contraceptive Pill

Background: Decidual cast describes the spontaneous sloughing of endometrium as an entire piece while retaining the shape of the endometrial cavity. It may be associated with increased serum progesterone levels and must be considered as a differential diagnosis in a patient who passes tissue per vagina while on progesterone containing hormonal contraception. Case: A 13-year-old adolescent with a history of menorrhagia since menarche, presented to the pediatric emergency room with worsening abdominal pain and heavy vaginal bleeding stopping her oral contraceptive pill 10 days prior to presentation. Her symptoms resolved spontaneously following passage of tissue per vagina which was later by histopathology to be a decidual cast. Conclusion: Decidual cast is a rare pathological entity that may be a side effect of progesterone-containing hormonal contraceptives, requiring patient education before use.
Designing intelligent agents to support long-term partnership in two echelon e-Supply Networks

Realizing the dynamic nature of information flow and the conflicting objectives of members play vital role in effective design of e-Supply Networks (e-SN). While there are some research in the SN literature proposing different dynamic and intelligent coordination mechanisms, the impact of the proper definition of data structure and long-term relationship in modeling both coordination and negotiation mechanisms have not been addressed deeply. In this paper, we propose three overlapping services including intelligent matching of partners, proposal generations, and long-term contract management. The process begins with the selection of qualified partners based on the similarity of users profiles in a multidimensional space defined by network attributes. Then, a coordination mechanism for long-term agreements is proposed such that the generated proposals in e-SN encourage buyers to reveal their demand in advance. The proposed mechanism introduces the importance of strategic buyers for suppliers in modeling and decision making process. To illustrate the model efficiency, a prototype system has been modeled and is compared to the traditional tendering mechanism. The validation results confirm the model efficiency in providing long-term decisions in a dynamic environment.
Effects of aging on exocrine immune responses to Mycoplasma pulmonis.

Abstract Formalinized Mycoplasma pulmonis was used to immunize 3 different age groups of Fischer 344 rats. A specific antibody to this antigen was detected in both saliva and lung lavage fluids and differences were noted in the elicitation of secretory antibody between the different ages of the animals. Few statistical differences were noted between the three age groups for salivary IgG responses to M. pulmonis , regardless of the dosage given, even though all responses were greater than their respective control groups. The principal differences among the three age groups were noted in the kinetics of the response, that is, the amount of time that was necessary to produce a peak response. The younger group of animals took less time to produce a peak response than the older two groups, even though the magnitude of the response was lower. Salivary IgA responses to M. pulmonis appeared predominantly as a primary response, particularly in the senescent animals. Secondary salivary IgA responses were not significantly greater than their respective primary responses, suggesting that secretory IgA did not display classic anamnestic responses that were observed with salivary IgG. As with IgG responses, the senescent animal took longer to produce a peak salivary IgA response when compared to the other age groups. Lung lavage IgG responses, normalized to total protein, were greatest in the youngest group of animals and appeared to diminish as the age of the animal increased. In contrast, lung lavage IgA responses to M. pulmonis were of a greater magnitude in the senescent animals. These studies suggest that senescent animals are capable of eliciting a humoral immune response in mucosal secretions to Mycoplasma pulmonis . However, differences noted with regard to disease severity and mortality to respiratory mycoplasmosis in senescent animals may result from intrinsic defects in the quality of the humoral response or as a consequence of deficient cellular responses to this pathogen.
Making the most of a scarce platinum-group metal: conductive ruthenia nanoskins on insulating silica paper.

Subambient thermal decomposition of ruthenium tetroxide from nonaqueous solution onto porous SiO2 substrates creates 2−3 nm thick coatings of RuO2 that cover the convex silica walls comprising the open, porous structure. The physical properties of the resultant self-wired nanoscale ruthenia significantly differ depending on the nature of the porous support. Previously reported RuO2-modified SiO2 aerogels display electron conductivity of 5 × 10−4 S cm−1 (as normalized to the geometric factor of the insulating substrate, not the conducting ruthenia phase), whereas RuO2-modified silica filter paper at ∼5 wt % RuO2 exhibits ∼0.5 S cm−1. Electron conduction through the ruthenia phase as examined from −160 to 260 °C requires minimal activation energy, only 8 meV, from 20 to 260 °C. The RuO2(SiO2) fiber membranes are electrically addressable, capable of supporting fast electron-transfer reactions, express an electrochemical surface area of ∼90 m2 g−1 RuO2, and exhibit energy storage in which 90% of the total ele...
Model-based performance analysis using block coverage measurements

The primary advantage of model-based performance analysis is its ability to facilitate sensitivity and predictive analysis, in addition to providing an estimate of the application performance. To conduct model-based analysis, it is necessary to build a performance model of an application which represents the application structure in terms of the interactions among its components, using an appropriate modeling paradigm. While several research efforts have been devoted to the development of the theoretical aspects of model-based analysis, its practical applicability has been limited despite the advantages it offers. This limited practical applicability is due to the lack of techniques available to estimate the parameters of the performance model of the application. Since the model parameters cannot be estimated in a realistic manner, the results obtained from model-based analysis may not be accurate. In this paper, we present an empirical approach in which profile data in the form of block coverage measurements is used to parameterize the performance model of an application. We illustrate the approach using a network routing simulator called Maryland routing simulator (MaRS). Validation of the performance estimate of MaRS obtained from the performance model parameterized using our approach demonstrates the viability of our approach. We then illustrate how the model could be used for predictive performance analysis using two scenarios. By the virtue of using code coverage measurements to parameterize a performance model, we integrate two mature, yet independent research areas, namely, software testing and model-based performance analysis.
Antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone cross the blood-brain barrier : A potential applicability to treatment of brain tumors

Hypothalamic growth hormone (GH)-releasing hormone (GHRH) stimulates the synthesis and release of GH from the pituitary gland. GHRH and its mRNA are also found in human cancers of the breast, ovary, prostate, lung, and other tumors, suggesting that GHRH is also a tumor growth factor. Various studies show that GHRH antagonists have antiproliferative effects in many tumor models; however, glioblastomas were examined only recently. Previous studies have demonstrated that s.c. administration of GHRH antagonist (JV-1-36) inhibited growth of s.c. U-87MG human glioblastomas and increased survival of nude mice with orthotopic implants of glioblastomas. Although treatment with JV-1-36 reduced tumorigenicity, it is not known whether peripherally administered GHRH antagonists can cross the blood-brain barrier. Brain endothelial cells joined by tight junctions form the blood-brain barrier, a "barrier" between the general circulation and the CNS. In this study, we administered a GHRH antagonist (JV-1-42) and showed that, after i.v. injection, iodinated JV-1-42 (131I-JV-1-42) enters the brain intact at a rate of 0.8514 mocrol/g per min with a serum half-life of 12.2 min. A one-site binding hyperbolic model indicated that the maximal percent of i.v. dose taken up per gram of brain was 0.41%. Coinjection of unlabeled JV-1-42 indicated that the transport from blood to brain is not saturable; however, transport from brain to blood is saturable and involves P-glycoprotein. Taken together, these results demonstrate that i.v.-administered 131I-JV-1-42 readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and accumulates in the brain. This finding indicates that GHRH antagonists could provide a potential treatment for malignant glioblastomas.
Induction of Surfactant Protein (SP-A) Biosynthesis and SP-A mRNA in Activated Type II Cells during Acute Silicosis in Rats

The synthesis of the major surfactant protein, SP-A, was studied in activated alveolar type II cells isolated from the lungs of rats exposed to silica by intratracheal instillation. Exposure of rats to silica resulted in large increases in the levels of disaturated phosphatidylcholine and SP-A in the extracellular and intracellular surfactant compartments. Isolated type II cells were used to determine if the observed increases in SP-A were associated with increased SP-A synthesis. Type II cells were isolated by a combination of elastase digestion, centrifugal elutriation, and differential adherence on IgG-coated petri dishes. Type II cells from silica-treated lungs were separated into two populations, designated type IIA and type IIB. The type IIB, or activated population, consisted of type II cells that were larger than normal type II cells and, in addition, contained larger and more numerous lamellar bodies than normal type II cells. Type IIB cells contained 4.3-fold higher levels of SP-A compared to no...
Excitation of lateral horn neurons of the neonatal rat spinal cord by 5-hydroxytryptamine.

Abstract The effects of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) on lateral horn cells contained in thin in vitro slices of neonatal rat spinal cord were investigated by means of intracellular recording techniques. Superfusion of 5-HT (1–100 μM) to lateral horn cells caused a concentration-dependent membrane depolarization leading to, in some instances, repetitive cell discharges. A number of lateral horn cells could be activated antidromically by stimulating the ventral rootlets. The conduction velocity of the antidromic spikes was estimated to be 0.3–2 m/s which corresponds to that of the axons of rat sympathetic preganglionic neurons reported by others. The 5-HT depolarization evoked in neurons that could be activated antidromically was similar to that elicited from unindentified lateral horn cells. The depolarization induced by 5-HT could be partially eliminated by low Ca/high Mg solution or tetrodotoxin in a portion of lateral horn cells and was accompanied by an increase in membrane resistance. The response was nullified near the membrane potential at which the spike afterhyperpolarization was abolished; a clear reversal of polarity was not observed at a more negative potential level. The 5-HT depolarization was reversibly blocked by methysergide and cyproheptadine and enhanced by fluoxetine, a 5-HT-uptake inhibitor. The results indicate that the indoleamine primarily exerted an excitatory action on lateral horn cells, including those tentatively identified as sympathetic preganglionic neurons, by a direct depolarization which appears to be mediated by decrease of a voltage-sensitive K conductance and partly by an indirect effect via the release of an excitatory substance(s).
Statistical Energy Analysis for the Time-Integrated Transient Response of Vibrating Systems

Energy relations, analogous to steady-state SEA power flow relations, are derived for the time-integrated transient response of each oscillator. These energy flow relations can be combined using statistical concepts, to obtain a set of energy balance equations for N coupled multimodal subsystems. It is shown that the time-integrated response of each subsystem can be described in terms of transient input energies and conventional SEA parameters, i.e., modal densities, loss factors and coupling loss factors. By solving the energy balance equations, the time-integrated response of each subsystem can be obtained
Artificial identification system for transformer insulation aging

An artificial identification system to classify the insulation aging status of cast-resin transformer through current impulse method of partial discharge (PD) is proposed. The aging phenomenon of insulation materials belongs to a natural property and has strongly influences with the stability of power systems. Therefore, an effectively insulating identification technology plays an important role to enhance the system operating reliability. Since PD is a well known evidence of insulation degrading, a series of high voltage test with acceleration aging process to collect PD signals for identification system are conducted. Some selected statistical PD features instead of waveform are then extracted from these experimental PD signals as input data of the identification system. Also, an artificial neural network that combined particle swarm optimization is presented as the effectively identification tool. To demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed approach, the artificial identification system is applied on both noisy and noiseless circumstance. The experiment showed promising results with over 94% identification rate and even with 30% noise per discharge signal, an 85% successful identification rate can still be achieved.
Characterization of Salt Overly Sensitive 1 (SOS1) gene homoeologs in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.).

Salt tolerance is an agronomically important trait that affects plant species around the globe. The Salt Overly Sensitive 1 (SOS1) gene encodes a plasma membrane Na+/H+ antiporter that plays an imp...
The Role of Evaluation in Mental Health

Mental health evaluation is reviewed as a specialized branch of the field program evaluation. Historical influences on the field, current issues and techniques, and unique role requirements for the mental health evaluator are presented in a detailed review of the literature. Role demands and specific evaluation methods are described in relation to several actual and potential evaluator roles, including information monitor, summative judge of program worth, formative collaborator in program development, and change agent. Techniques reviewed include outcome measurement, goal-attainment scaling, cost- analytic procedures, epidemiology, ecological approaches, information systems, systems analysis, and peer review. The adoption of metaevaluation procedures to improve the utility of mental health evaluation efforts is advocated.
Development of a patient acuity model for an inpatient rehabilitation unit.

Purpose A patient classification tool for measuring acuity in acute in-patient rehabilitation patients was needed. A search of the literature failed to uncover an acuity measure specific for this population. Design A new tool was designed based on the Functional Independence Measure. Methods The tool was created and preliminary testing was done to establish usability and reliability. Results and Conclusions Preliminary testing revealed ease of use and moderately good reliability. Clinical Relevance The in-patient acuity measure is a straightforward tool that can be used to assist with staffing and budgeting. Preliminary testing showed good validity and reliability.
Analysis of raphidophyte assimilatory nitrate reductase reveals unique domain architecture incorporating a 2/2 hemoglobin

Eukaryotic assimilatory nitrate reductase (NR) is a multi-domain protein that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in nitrate assimilation. This protein is highly conserved and has been extensively characterized in plants and algae. Here, we report hybrid NRs (NR2-2/2HbN) identified in two microalgal species, Heterosigma akashiwo and Chattonella subsalsa, with a 2/2 hemoglobin (2/2Hb) inserted into the hinge 2 region of a prototypical NR. 2/2Hbs are a class of single-domain heme proteins found in bacteria, ciliates, algae and plants. Sequence analysis indicates that the C-terminal FAD/NADH reductase domain of NR2-2/2HbN retains identity with eukaryotic NR, suggesting that the 2/2Hb domain was inserted interior to the existing NR domain architecture. Phylogenetic analysis supports the placement of the 2/2Hb domain of NR2-2/2HbN within group I (N-type) 2/2Hbs with high similarity to mycobacterial 2/2HbNs, known to convert nitric oxide to nitrate. Experimental data confirms that H. akashiwo is capable of metabolizing nitric oxide and shows that HaNR2-2/2HbN expression increases in response to nitric oxide addition. Here, we propose a mechanism for the dual function of NR2-2/2HbN in which nitrate reduction and nitric oxide dioxygenase reactions are cooperative, such that conversion of nitric oxide to nitrate is followed by reduction of nitrate for assimilation as cellular nitrogen.
Absolute UV and Vacuum UV Oscillator Strengths for Ni II

Radiative lifetimes, measured using time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence, are reported for 18 odd-parity levels of Ni+. The radiative lifetimes are combined with Ni II emission branching fractions to produce 59 accurate (typically ±10%) absolute atomic transition probabilities in the ultraviolet (UV) and vacuum ultraviolet (VUV). The UV and VUV branching fractions are determined using a combination of measurements from a Fourier transform spectrometer at the University of Lund and a 3 m focal length vacuum echelle spectrometer system at the University of Wisconsin. Accurate f-values for Ni II resonance lines are important for analysis of spectra on the diffuse interstellar medium (ISM) at low redshift and for studies of the same lines in high-redshift QSO absorption line systems. Resonance lines at vacuum wavelengths of 170.960, 174.155, and 175.191 nm have log gf values of -0.68, -0.60, and -0.80, respectively. Until additional laboratory measurements are completed, we recommend thatf-values for other Ni II resonance lines be taken from the relative f-values from Zsargo & Federman with a multiplicative scaling factor of 0.534 (±10%). The present measurements indicate that nickel is less depleted in the ISM than previously estimated.
Selective attention in schizophrenia: relationship to verbal working memory

In previous work using the Stroop task to examine cognitive function in schizophrenia, we have suggested that reaction time (RT) facilitation and error interference should be more sensitive measures of cognitive function than RT interference. We examined this hypothesis in 36 DSM-IV schizophrenia and schizoaffective patients, who performed both the Stroop and the Speaking Span, a measure of verbal working memory. The results supported our hypotheses, demonstrating that RT facilitation and error interference were associated more strongly with working memory performance than RT interference. The robust correlations between these measures of selective attention and Speaking Span performance has implications for understanding the nature and selectivity of cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. We present several different hypotheses that may explain this relationship, including: (1) a generalized deficit; (2) a common cognitive disturbance; and (3) a common neurobiological dysfunction.
The role of emotional responses and physiological reactivity in the marital conflict-child functioning link.

Background: Children's emotional responses and physiological reactivity to conflict were examined as mediators and moderators in the associations between exposure to parental marital conflict and child adjustment and cognitive problems. Method: One hundred and eighty elementary school children participated. In response to a simulated argument, children's skin conductance level reactivity (SCLR) was examined, and their emotional responses (reported and observed anger, sadness, and fear) were assessed. Results: A higher level of SCLR was a robust risk factor for various child outcomes, mediated boys’ internalizing difficulties in the marital conflict–child functioning link, and functioned as a vulnerability factor for girls’ externalizing, internalizing, and cognitive problems. Increased anger (for boys) and sadness (for girls) exacerbated adjustment difficulties related to marital conflict. Conclusions: Findings illustrate the aggregation of risk in relation to child and family characteristics.
Protected Area Management in Jordan

Protected area management is increasingly important throughout the world, particularly in less developed countries and arid regions. The Middle East, including Jordan, has important and unique resources due to its varied topography and climate. In Jordan, the protected areas are privately, rather than publicly, managed, and this provides for a unique and somewhat challenging management effort. The purpose of this paper is to review the establishment and administration of Jordan's protected areas with particular emphasis on the challenges of multiple administrative and legislative layers, departmental working relationships, and a paucity of funding. Interviews with government and nongovernmental experts in Jordan, coupled with a review of pertinent academic and planning literature, served as the information base for this study. Despite new legislative and administrative initiatives, results reveal important and continuing challenges for Jordan. Recommendations include completion of protected area inventories, government wide institutional strengthening, partnering with organizations and the public, as well as legislative reexamination.
Age of Acquisition: Its Neural and Computational Mechanisms.

The acquisition of new skills over a life span is a remarkable human ability. This ability, however, is constrained by age of acquisition (AoA); that is, the age at which learning occurs significantly affects the outcome. This is most clearly reflected in domains such as language, music, and athletics. This article provides a perspective on the neural and computational mechanisms underlying AoA in language acquisition. The authors show how AoA modulates both monolingual lexical processing and bilingual language acquisition. They consider the conditions under which syntactic processing and semantic processing may be differentially sensitive to AoA effects in second-language acquisition. The authors conclude that AoA effects are pervasive and that the neural and computational mechanisms underlying learning and sensorimotor integration provide a general account of these effects.
Comminuted First Phalanx Fractures in 30 Horses: Surgical vs. Nonsurgical Treatments

Comminuted first phalanx fractures were diagnosed in 30 horses. One leg was involved in each horse. Five horses were presented with open fractures. Nine horses had a portion of intact cortex (strut) extending from the proximal to distal joint. Ten horses were euthanized, including one with an open fracture, without treatment. The remaining 20 horses were treated by open reduction with a neutralization plate (8 horses, including one with an open fracture), open reduction with lag screw fixation (3 horses), lag screw fixation through stab incisions (2 horses), external coaptation with a cast (3 horses), and external skeletal fixation using a weight supporting shoe (4 horses, including 3 with open fractures). Thirteen horses were euthanized following treatment because of persistent infection (9), chronic lameness (2), and third metacarpal bone fractures (2). Seven horses survived longer than 1 year after treatment. Six were lame and used as breeding animals, and one horse went on to race successfully. All four horses with open fractures that were treated were subsequently euthanized. Significantly more horses with an intact strut of bone survived after treatment (4 of 7 [57%]) when compared to horses without an intact strut of bone that were treated (3 of 13 [23%]) (p < 0.05). Invasive surgical approaches used for the repair of comminuted first phalanx fractures in this study were associated with an unacceptable infection rate (55%). Techniques involving less trauma to the compromised soft tissue around the fracture should afford a better chance for a successful outcome.
Early Detection of Cancer: Immunoassays for Plasma Tumor Markers.

Background: Plasma tumor biomarkers are widely used clinically for monitoring response to therapy and detecting cancer recurrence. Only a limited number of them, however, have been used effectively for the early detection of cancer. Objective: To review plasma tumor markers used clinically for the early detection of cancer and to provide expert opinion about future directions. Methods: A literature review, as well as the authors' expert opinion, of plasma tumor markers that have been widely accepted for the early detection of cancer. Results: In the US, only prostate-specific antigen, cancer antigen 125 and α-fetoprotein have been clinically used for the early detection of prostate, ovarian and liver cancers, respectively. Both analytical and clinical issues related to the use of these three markers are discussed. Conclusion: Few plasma tumor markers have been used effectively for the early detection of cancer, mainly because of their limited sensitivity and/or specificity. Multiple approaches have been d...
The ion-optical program raytrace☆

Abstract This article gives the reader a very brief introduction to the ion-optical program RAYTRACE, its function and where a copy can be obtained.
An essential role for CtIP in chromosomal translocation formation through an alternative end-joining pathway

Chromosomal translocations can occur as a consequence of the repair of DNA double-strand breaks via the alternative nonhomologous end-joining pathway. Now the DNA end processing factor CtIP is shown to play a role during the formation of chromosomal translocations.
Ordered Langmuir-Blodgett films of polypyrrole and analogs

Abstract Ordered mono and multilayers of polypyrrole and its analogs were prepared using a Langmuir-Blodgett film balance. Films could be transferred with facility and were picked up on microscope grids for electron microscopic studies among a number of other investigations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a smooth coverage over a large surface area of the substrate. Electron diffraction from these thin films revealed that the nature of packing is substantially different from bulk grown polypyrrole.
A RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE MOLECULAR WEIGHTS OF MACROMOLECULES AND THEIR ELUTION VOLUMES BASED ON A MODEL FOR SEPHADEX GEL FILTRATION.

Abstract Equations relating the elution volume in Sephadex gel filtration to the molecular weight and the molecular radius of a given solute have been derived on the basis of a model in which the elements of volume available to solvent within the gel are approximated by a combination of cones, cylinders, and crevices. The equations are based on the assumption that the volume of liquid passing through the column between the application of a macromolecular solute and emergence of the solute in maximal concentration is equal to the volume within the Sephadex bed which is available to macromolecules of a given size. The volume which for steric reasons is unavailable to the macromolecular solute is explicitly described in terms of the model. These equations are tested and two parameters are evaluated by means of data relating molecular weights and elution volumes taken from the literature. One of the parameters can also be evaluated from the ratio of the bed volume to the void volume. The good agreement between values calculated in these two ways provides support for the notion that the simple model is essentially equivalent to the Sephadex gel. Molecular weights calculated from the elution volume by means of the equations derived here in most instances agree rather well with values calculated by conventional means. A few serious discrepancies in the data, however, suggest that caution be used in applying this or perhaps any other simple relationship between molecular weights and elution volume to the estimation of molecular weights.
Assignment of the 13C-NMR spectra of virgin and reactive-site modified turkey ovomucoid third domain.

The virgin (reactive-site Leu18-Glu19 peptide bond intact) and modified (reactive-site Leu18-Glu19 peptide bond hydrolyzed) forms of turkey ovomucoid third domain (OMTKY3 and OMTKY3*, respectively) have been analyzed by proton-detected 1H(13C) two-dimensional single-bond correlation (1H[13C]SBC) spectroscopy. Previous 1H-nmr assignments of these proteins [A.D. Robertson, W.M. Westler, and J.L Markley (1988) Biochemistry, 27, 2519-2529; G. I. Rhyu and J. L. Markley (1988) Biochemistry, 27, 2529-2539] have been extended to directly bonded 13C atoms. Assignments have been made to 52 of the 56 backbone 13C alpha-1H units and numerous side-chain 13C-1H groups in both OMTKY3 and OMTKY3*. The largest changes in the 13C chemical shift upon conversion of OMTKY3 to OMTKY3* occur at or near the reactive site, and tend toward values observed in small peptides. Moreover, the side-chain prochiral methylene protons attached to the C gamma of Glu19 and C delta of Arg21 show nonequivalent chemical shifts in OMTKY3 but more equivalent chemical shifts in OMTKY3*. These results suggest that the reactive site region becomes less ordered upon hydrolysis of the Leu18-Glu19 peptide bond. Comparison of 13C alpha chemical shifts of OMTKY3 and bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor [D. Bruhuiler and G. Wagner (1986) Biochemistry 25, 5839-5843; N. R. Nirmala and G. Wagner (1988) Journal of the American Chemical Society, 110, 7557-7558] with small peptide values [R. Richarz and K. Wuthrich (1978) Biopolymers, 17, 2133-2141] suggests that 13C alpha chemical shifts of residues residing in helices are generally about 2 ppm downfield of resonances from nonhelical residues.
Capacitance and resistance measurements of TiO2 rectifying barriers

Abstract Measurements of the resistance and capacitance as a function of voltage in the frequency range 20 Hz to 100 MHz are reported for gold-ceramic nonstoichiometric rutile rectifiers. The results are discussed in terms of the Schottky, Mott-Bethe and Shockley models. The Mott-Bethe model was used in conjunction with the Schottky equivalent circuit, with frequency-independent components is shown to give an excellent description of the diodes for the bias range in which a potential barrier exists.
Understanding Abstraction in Design: A Comparison of Three Functional Analysis Methods for Product Dissection

In design classes, functional analysis is a process that is typically used to assist students with identifying essential functions to aid in the development of their concepts. However, it has been observed that students sometimes struggle with this part of the design process. In this study, a group of 26 students were studied in a 3-level within-subject study (n = 78) to determine which of three common functional analysis approaches (i.e. top-down, energy-flow, and unstructured) was most effective. Participants were asked to dissect a hair dryer, power drill, and NERF pistol and generate function trees describing how these work. Measures of effectiveness include the number of functions generated, the number of errors, the number of levels of abstraction represented in the tree, and the number of unique subsystems and functions identified. No statistical difference between the approaches was found, and there was also no practical difference between the approaches. These results suggest that for novice engineers, there is no difference between methods used. This possibly indicates that for novice engineers, formal methods may not be any more effective than an unstructured approach.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Does a Long-Fusion "T3-Sacrum" Portend a Worse Outcome Than a Short-Fusion "T10-Sacrum" in Primary Surgery for Adult Scoliosis?

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective clinicoradiographic analysis. OBJECTIVE To compare the upper thoracic (UT) and lower thoracic (LT) spines as the upper instrumented vertebra in primary fusions to the sacrum for adult scoliosis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The optimal level at which a fusion to the sacrum is terminated proximally for adult scoliosis remains controversial. We hypothesized that (1) UT spine would have an increased pseudarthrosis, more perioperative complications, and worse outcomes and (2) LT spine would have more proximal junctional kyphosis. METHODS Patients who underwent primary surgery for adult scoliosis between 2002 and 2006 were studied. UT and LT groups were matched cohorts. Minimum follow-up for all patients was 2 years. Scoliosis Research Society scores and Oswestry Disability Index were the clinical outcome measures. RESULTS Fifty-eight patients (UT = 20, LT = 38) with a mean age of 55.7 years were followed for an average of 3.0 ± 1.1 years. The UT group had greater preoperative thoracic kyphosis and coronal Cobb values (P < 0.05). Diagnoses were idiopathic scoliosis (75.9%) and degenerative scoliosis (24.1%). The UT cohort had a greater number of levels fused (15.8 vs. 8.6) and higher blood loss (1350 mL vs. 811 mL). Operative time, recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 per level, and caudal interbody grafting (80.0% UT vs. 89.5% LT) were similar. The UT group experienced an increased number of perioperative complications (30.0% vs. 15.8%), more pseudarthrosis (20.0% vs. 5.3%), and a higher prevalence of revision surgery (20.0% vs. 10.5%). The LT group had more proximal junctional kyphosis (18.4% vs. 10.0%). Scoliosis Research Society scores and Oswestry Disability Index were improved in both cohorts in all domains (P < 0.001), except function (P = 0.07) and mental health (P = 0.27), which were not significantly improved in the UT group. CONCLUSION With long fusions to the sacrum, one should anticipate more perioperative complications, a higher pseudarthrosis rate, and perhaps more revision surgery than short fusions. Short fusions may result in a more proximal junctional kyphosis, only rarely requiring revision surgery.
Obesity and physical inactivity in rural America.

ABSTRACT: Context and Purpose: Obesity and physical inactivity are common in the United States, but few studies examine this issue within rural populations. The present study uses nationally representative data to study obesity and physical inactivity in rural populations. Methods: Data came from the 1998 National Health Interview Survey Sample Adult and Adult Prevention Module. Self-reported height and weight were used to calculate body mass index. Physical inactivity was defined using self-reported leisure-time physical activity. Analyses included descriptive statistics, x2 tests, and logistic regression. Findings: Obesity was more common among rural (20.4%, 95% CI 19.2%–21.6%) than urban adults (17.8%, 95% CI 17.2%–18.4%). Rural residents of every racial/ethnic group were at higher risk of obesity than urban whites, other factors held equal. Other predictors of obesity included being male, age 25–74, lacking a high school diploma, having physical limitations, fair to poor health, and a history of smoking. Proportionately more rural adults were physically inactive than their urban peers (62.8% versus 59.3%). Among rural residents, minorities were not significantly more likely to be inactive than whites. Males and younger adults were less likely to be inactive. Rural adults who were from the Midwest and South, had less than a high school education, had fair to poor health, and currently smoked were more likely to be inactive compared to their respective referent group. Conclusions: The high prevalence of obesity and inactive lifestyles among rural populations call for research into effective rural interventions.
The use of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) in the probing of the nanodielectric interface

EPR (sometimes annotated as ESR) has been carried out on functionalized nanoscale silica embedded in crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) in comparison with the base resin. In situ EPR measurements under an applied electric field have been carried out, and the technique is outlined. The preliminary measurements show that EPR can detect trap sites in the bulk and interfacial polymer. In addition, EPR can detect texture in the polymer due to its processing. At the same time, measurements to determine the dynamics and spatial distribution of the space charge have been carried out under similar conditions using the pulsed electro-acoustic analysis technique. The results are discussed in terms of the way in which the nanoparticles affect the local polymer environment.
Comprehensive analysis of gratings for ultraviolet space instrumentation

Comprehensive measurements in the vacuum uv range of 1200-3000 A of efficiency, polarization, and scattering of classically ruled and photoresist gratings are reported. The results show that the art of ruling gratings for vacuum uv use has reached a high level of sophistication and that careful analysis of grating properties can lead to useful improvement of the ruling art.
Managing The Tortoise Island: Tua Pek Kong Temple, Pilgrimage, and Social Change in Pulau Kusu, 1965-2007

The Marina South Pier was unusually crowded for a Saturday evening. Many people, both young and old, waited patiently for the ferry to arrive. For most of them, it has been a year since they were last there. They were carrying plastic bags containing offerings such as joss sticks and paper, fruits, and prosperity cakes (huat kuay 发糕) to worship the Grand Uncle (Tua Pek Kong 大伯公) on Pulau Kusu (Guiyu Dao 龟屿岛), a well-known pilgrimage island in Singapore. These people were among the 100,000 to 200,000 regular pilgrims from Singapore and overseas visiting the Guiyu Fushangong Tua Pek Kong Temple 龟屿福善宫大伯公庙 (hereafter Tua Pek Kong Temple) during the annual pilgrimage season on the ninth lunar month.
TOXIC EFFECTS OF STREPTOCOCCAL M PROTEIN ON PLATELETS AND POLYMORPHONUCLEAR LEUKOCYTES IN HUMAN BLOOD

Purified M protein isolated from Group A streptococci produced cytotoxic reactions in normal human blood in vitro. In the presence of M antigen, platelets aggregated, fused, and lysed. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) surrounded the platelet aggregates, then became highly vacuolated and lysed. In addition, PMN progressively lost their capacity to phagocytose unrelated bacteria and to migrate in glass capillary pipettes. Platelet-PMN reactions were directly proportional to the type-specific precipitin reactivity of each M preparation and could be removed with homologous M antibody, only. Moreover, the reactivity of M protein was abolished by enzymatic digestion with trypsin, but not with lysozyme, strongly suggesting that cell-wall mucopeptide was not involved. Preliminary studies showed that platelet-PMN reactions require heat-stable and heat-labile serum factors, presumably antibody and complement. It is suggested that cytotoxic determinants are uncovered by the extraction and purification process and are intimately associated with the type-specific M determinant, possibly in a molecular complex.
Hybrid-Versus-Parental Strain Reaction. II. Comparative Mortality in Parental Strain Mice of Different H-2 Genotypes

Lethally irradiated perental strain mice were inoculated with marrow from reciprocal hybrid donors. Hybrid cells could recognize the quantitatively greater antigenicity of parental strain recipients. The severity of the hybrid-versus-parental strain and parental strain-versus-hybrid reactions was compared. There was a significantly less severe reaction when DBA/2 mice were inoculated with (DBA/2female X C57BLmale)F1 arrow than with (C57BL X DBA/2)F1 marrow, which indicated a maternal influence on antigen recognition. The reaction of (DBA/2 X C57BL)F1 against DBA/2 recipients was significantly less severe than the DBA/2 reaction against (DBA/2 X C57BL)F1 recipients. All reactions involving C57BL were equally severe and more lethal than those involving DBA/2 mice. The strength of these reactions was a function of the relative tissue antigenicity and responsiveness of the parental strains of the hybrid cross. Both the expression of tissue antigens and the ability to recognize and respons to them are influenced by the maternal strain of the hybrid cross.
Acute right ventricular infarction mimicking extensive anterolateral wall injury

A patient presented with an acute right ventricular infarction characterized by an electrocardiographic current of injury in both the inferior (2,3,aVF) and anterior precordial leads (V1-V6). Cardiac catheterization demonstrated normal left ventricular wall motion, a codominant circulation, and severe disease of the right coronary artery. We propose that this coronary anatomy explains the injury currents on the electrocardiogram. This case illustrates a rare presentation of right ventricular myocardial infarction mimicking an extensive anterolateral wall injury.
Positioning system for the LCLS undulator.

The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) Project includes the undulator subsystem that has 33 undulator magnetic structures each 3.4 m long. Positioning of the LCLS undulators along the undulator line with an accuracy of 50 {micro}m in the vertical transverse direction is required. A prototype of the LCLS undulator has been built with a positioning system based on three stages with cam shafts. Each cam shaft produces reciprocating motion with a range of {+-}3 mm. A servomotor with integrated brake, incremental rotary encoder, servo amplifier, and controller is used with a 100:1 ratio gear box to drive each cam shaft. Resolution of the motion control is about 0.05 {micro}m. SmartMotors are connected in parallel through an RS-485 interface to the serial port of the computer. With this approach, the control system is easily expandable; up to 120 motors can be controlled with one serial port. Positioning accuracy of about 10 {micro}m for the LCLS undulator prototype is demonstrated.
Comparing Apples to Apples: A Call for Unification of Complication Reporting Across Health Systems

The formalization of assessment of surgical outcomes across health care systems for complex procedures is a significant problem in the surgical literature. Low and colleagues present support for the use of the Accordion Severity Grading System as a tool to provide simple and comprehensive assessment of postoperative complications.