cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the ejection of Earth-mass planets from the habitable zones of the solar twins HD 20782 and HD 188015

We provide a detailed statistical study of the ejection of fictitious Earth-mass planets from the habitable zones of the solar twins HD 20782 and HD 188015. These systems possess a giant planet that crosses into the stellar habitable zone, thus effectively thwarting the possibility of habitable terrestrial planets. In the case of HD 188015, the orbit of the giant planet is essentially circular, whereas in the case of HD 20782, it is extremely elliptical. As starting positions for the giant planets, we consider both the apogee and perigee positions, whereas the starting positions of the Earth-mass planets are widely varied. For the giant planets, we consider models based on their minimum masses as well as models where the masses are increased by 30%. Our simulations indicate a large range of statistical properties concerning the ejection of the Earth-mass planets from the stellar habitable zones. For example, it is found that the ejection times for the Earth-mass planets from the habitable zones of HD 20782 and HD 188015, originally placed at the centre of the habitable zones, vary by a factor of ~200 and ~1500, respectively, depending on the starting positions of the giant and terrestrial planets. If the mass of the giant planet is increased by 30%, the variation in ejection time for HD 188015 increases to a factor of ~6000. However, the short survival times of any Earth-mass planets in these systems are of no surprise. It is noteworthy, however, that considerable differences in the survival times of the Earth-mass planets are found, which may be relevant for establishing guidelines of stability for systems with less intrusive giant planets.
On the Measurement of Vibrational Circular Dichroism of a Single Enantiomer on Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometers

Techniques for measuring the circular dichroism in vibrational transitions (VCD) using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy have been developed recently. While measuring VCD on FT-IR spectrometers, one generally encounters problems associated with polarization artifacts that arise from the birefringence in the optical path and detector window. Until now, these problems were overcome by recording VCD either as one half of the difference between the VCD spectra of the enantiomers or as the difference between the VCD spectra of one enantiomer and the racemic mixture. When neither the second enantiomer nor the racemic mixture is available, as for most biological compounds, this procedure is inapplicable.
Preparative fractionation of nucleic acids by agarose gel electrophoresis.

Abstract Agarose gel electrophoresis offers a versatile means to fractionate nucleic acids varying in size over considerably different molecular weight ranges. Surface cohesion properties of agarose gels and sample loading problems have hampered the use of such gels in largediameter, preparative-scale tube gel electrophoresis. We report here a procedure that makes routine and reproducible the construction, sample loading, and running of preparative agarose electrophoretic gels. Data are presented on the fractionation of yeast nucleic acids.
V-V Energy Transfer from Highly Vibrationally Excited Molecules through Transition Dipole Coupling: A Quantitative Test on Energy Transfer from SO2(v≫ 0) to SF6(31)†

Time-resolved Fourier transform IR emission spectroscopy has been used to monitor the population distribution of both the energy giving molecules and the energy receiving molecules during collisional quenching of highly vibrationally excited SO2 by bath-gas SF6. The change in population of the SF6 v3 = 1 level measured as a function of time is compared with that calculated based on the transition dipole coupling model with the transition dipole of highly excited SO2 extracted from its IR emission spectra. The excellent agreement indicates that long-range interaction through transition dipole coupling is responsible for the vibration to vibration energy transfer from the highly excited molecules.
Phosphate regulates the stability of skeletal alkaline phosphatase activity in human osteosarcoma (SaOS-2) cells without equivalent effects on the level of skeletal alkaline phosphatase immunoreactive protein.

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) can regulate the level of skeletal alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in human osteoblast-like cells, but not by means of changes in transcription or release from the cell surface. The current studies were intended to determine whether (1) Pi affected the inactivation of ALP activity in human osteosarcoma (SaOS-2) cells; and (2) Pi-dependent changes in ALP-specific activity were associated with equal, concomitant changes in the level of ALP immunoreactive protein. The results of these studies revealed that Pi increased the stability of skeletal ALP activity without equivalent effects on the level of ALP immunoreactive protein. An increase in Pi (from 0 to 1.8 mmol/liter) caused a time-dependent increase in the amount of skeletal ALP activity in the SaOS-2 cells, without a parallel increase in the amount of skeletal ALP immunoreactive protein, and a decrease in Pi (from 1.8 to 0 mmol/liter) caused a time-dependent decrease in the amount of ALP activity, without a significant decrease in the total cellular content of ALP immunoreactive protein. Together, these observations suggest that Pi may alter the level of skeletal ALP activity in SaOS-2 cells by inhibiting a process of irreversible inactivation that does not effect equal, concomitant changes in the level of skeletal ALP immunoreactive protein.
THE DIFFUSION OF ORGANIZATIONAL PRACTICE: INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS AFFECTING THE ADOPTION OF SELF-MANAGED WORK TEAMS

This study applies the diffusion framework to examine the utilization of a management practice, self-managed work teams, among municipal government organizations. Using survey data gathered from 204 American cities, the study investigates three institutional aspects: regulative, normative, and cultural-cognitive aspects of institutions. The empirical analyses found support the hypotheses regarding the normative and cultural-cognitive aspects of institutions. Professional networks were significantly positively related to the likelihood of using self-managed work teams in the city. Likewise, the belief shared in service quality management by city employees was significantly positively related to the likelihood of using self-managed work teams in the city.
Ecological Race Differences in the Occupational Structure

Motivated by existing work that explores the impact of urbanization and spatial segregation on occupational outcomes, we utilize General Social Survey data from 1990 to 2006 to investigate the interrelationships among race, urbanization, and occupation. Our results indicate that white professionals are associated with several levels of urbanization, while black professionals are weakly associated with any level of urbanization. We also explore other dimensions of stratification by including education and gender into our analyses. Our findings suggest that the relationship between occupation and urbanization is highly complex with some distinctive patterns, and that education—the great equalizer—only partially ameliorates racial and gender differences.
Forced oscillations of transonic channel and inlet flows with shock waves

Dans ces ecoulements des mouvements de grande amplitude d'une onde de choc peuvent etre provoques par des oscillations de faible amplitude des parois ou de la contrepression. On obtient des solutions asymptotiques pour les distributions de vitesse et de pression a travers un canal bidimensionnel; calcul de solutions pour la vitesse de l'onde de choc
Surgical treatment of ruptured anterior circulation aneurysms: comparison of pterional and supraorbital keyhole approaches.

BACKGROUND Recent advancements in microsurgical techniques and instrumentation have allowed the development of the keyhole approach in aneurysm surgery. OBJECTIVE To compare the safety, efficacy, and 1-year clinical outcome of supraorbital keyhole and standard pterional approaches for ruptured anterior circulation aneurysms. METHODS A total of 87 patients underwent surgical clipping, 40 through the pterional and 47 through the supraorbital keyhole approach. Baseline demographics, operative time, procedural complications, and 1-year patient outcome were retrospectively compared. RESULTS The 2 groups were comparable with respect to baseline characteristics, with the exception of a higher proportion of small aneurysms (<7 mm) in the supraorbital group (70.2% vs. 37.5%, P = .002). Total operative time was significantly shorter in the supraorbital group (205 minutes, P < .001) compared with the pterional group (256 minutes). The rate of procedural complications was lower in patients treated through the pterional (17.5%) vs the supraorbital approach (23.4%, P = .4). Intraoperative aneurysm ruptures occurred more frequently in the supraorbital group (10.6% vs. 2.5%). No patient experienced early or late rebleeding in either group. One year after treatment, 75% (30/40) of patients achieved a favorable outcome (Glasgow outcome scale IV or V) in the pterional group vs 76.6% (36/47) in the supraorbital group (P = .8). CONCLUSION The rate of procedural complications may be higher with the supraorbital keyhole approach, but overall patient outcomes appear to be comparable. The pterional approach is a simple, reliable, and efficient procedure. The keyhole approach may be an acceptable alternative for neurosurgeons who have gained sufficient experience with the technique, especially for small noncomplex aneurysms.
Structure and stability of solid C 36

Structure and stability of synthesized ${\mathrm{C}}_{36}$ solid [C. Piskoti, J. Yarger, and A. Zettl, Nature (London) $393,$ 771 (1998)] is investigated using a generalized tight-binding molecular-dynamics method. Out of the many solid forms considered, the most stable structure consists of a polymeric phase of ${\mathrm{C}}_{36}$ with mixed ${\mathrm{sp}}^{2}$ and ${\mathrm{sp}}^{3}$ bonding for the atoms. The cross-linking is found to be across the hexagonal faces with strong covalent intermolecular coupling. Furthermore, formation of this polymer is found to be an exothermic process. The structural properties are consistent with experiment.
Moving forward on quality of care: Role of decision modeling

Quality care reemerges as an issue amid the primary concern for cost. Primary problems revolve around whether treatments are efficacious and appropriate for the individual patient and whether the practice of medicine is being performed competently. A model is suggested for how these questions might be addressed.
Introductory Remarks Concerning the Urologic Aspects of Hypertension

Urologic experience with uninephrectomy for renal hypertension is reviewed and a case with a prolonged postoperative period of normotension is presented. In certain instances aortograms are necessary to identify vascular lesions in the kidney causing hypertension, but renograms using radioactive I131 may be of value as a screening procedure. An unusual case is described in which contrast material injected into the bladder could be seen to enter the renal pelves. The child went for prolonged periods without voiding and had demonstrable pyelonephritis. When antibiotics and a program of frequent voiding were commenced the blood pressure fell toward normal and has remained at only minimally elevated levels for the subsequent 2 years.
Mixed-valence phenomena in neutron scattering

Abstract We briefly review the results obtained by three classes of neutron scattering experiments on mixed-valence compounds: induced moment form factors, paramagnetic spectra, and phonon dispersion curves. Whenever appropriate, the results are compared to those obtained on dense Kondo and heavy-fermion compounds, two classes of materials closely related to the mixed-valence compounds. Future directions for research in these areas are indicated.
Significance of faecoliths in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis

Three cases are presented which demonstrate the significance of faecoliths in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in infants. A wide spectrum of symptoms is noteworthy. The usefulness of a plain X-ray of the abdomen in infants with acute abdomen is stressed.
Metabolism of BW 1370U87 by crude liver homogenates from several species: An in vitro method for preliminary investigation of species differences in metabolism

We employed broken cell liver preparations in order to investigate potential species-specific differences in the metabolism of BW 1370U87, a new selective and reversible MAO-A inhibitor. The drug metabolizing capacity of crude liver homogenates from rat, dog, cat, monkey, and man was assessed based on the utilization of BW 1370U87 and the appearance of suspected metabolites. When incubated with liver homogenates (37° C) in the presence of a cofactor preparation designed to generate TPNH, BW 1370U87 (1 or 10 μM) was metabolized in a species and time dependent manner. The rate of disappearence of BW 1370U87 was more rapid in dog and cat preparations than those of rat, monkey and man. The appearance of metabolites coincided with the disappearance of BW 1370U87. Three metabolites, identified and synthesized as BW 183U88, BW 380U88, and BW 330U88 appeared in all five species. These metabolites were also found to be selective MAO-A inhibitors both in vitro and ex vivo and may contribute to the overall activity exhibited by the parent molecule.
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 regulation of urinary concentrating ability.

Purpose of review Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) is an enzyme that is gaining prominence as a critical signaling molecule in the epithelial cells of renal tubules. This review will focus on recent findings exploring the role of GSK3 in renal collecting ducts, especially its role in urine concentration involving vasopressin signaling. Recent findings Recent studies using inhibition or tissue-specific gene deletion of GSK3 revealed the mechanism by which GSK3 regulates aquaporin 2 water channels via adenylate cyclase or the prostaglandin-E2 pathway. In other studies, postnatal treatment with lithium, an inhibitor of GSK3, increased cell proliferation and led to microcyst formation in rat kidneys. These studies suggest that loss of GSK3 activity could interfere with renal water transport at two levels. In the short term, it could disrupt vasopressin signaling in collecting duct cells and in the long term it could alter the structure of the collecting ducts, making them less responsive to the hydro-osmotic effects of vasopressin. Summary Ongoing studies reveal the crucial role played by GSK3 in the regulation of vasopressin action in the renal collecting ducts and suggest a possible use of GSK3 inhibitors in disease conditions associated with disrupted vasopressin signaling.
Effects of Structurally Competitive Multilevel Goals for an Interdependent Task

Forty preexistent corporate and student performance teams participated in two sessions to explore the effects of structurally competitive individual and group goals on an independent task. Results indicated that on a time-constrained task, the simultaneous administration of dual multilevel goals resulted in lower group performance than groups given either a group goal or no specific goals. Individual performance also was lower when dual multilevel goals were administered than when subjects were given only individual goals. Structurally competitive multilevel goals also stimulated more competitive individual strategy choices than no specific goals or group goals.
Color 3D electronic imaging of the surface of the human body

The NRC laboratories have developed a laser scanning technique to digitize shapes and colors in registration. The technique, known as synchronized scanning, is capable of digitizing topography as small as the relief of a bare finger tip, showing a clear picture of the skin structure (essentially a clean fingerprint without distortion), as well as the shape and size of body components such as hands, face, and feet, and the full body of one or more subjects simultaneously. The laser scanner uses a RGB laser, coupled to an optical fiber, which is projected in the field of view. The 3D color measurements are made by optical triangulation to a resolution of 10 micrometers for finger tip scans and a resolution of 1 mm for whole body scans. Experimental results are presented and discussed. Potential applications of this technology in the field of identification and inspection of humans include face recognition, finger, foot and teeth print identification, and 3D mugshots that can be rapidly broadcast through satellite communication. One of the unique properties of this technology is that absolute measurements, not only appearance and relative position of features, can be used for identification purposes.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Fibre optic versus conventional phototherapy for hyperbilirubinaemia in preterm infants.

Studies comparing efficacy of fibre optic phototherapy to conventional phototherapy are performed mostly in term infants and give conflicting results. This randomized prospective study compares efficacy of fibre optic phototherapy using the Ohmeda Biliblanket device to conventional fluorescent phototherapy in preterm infants. A total of 124 preterm infants with a nonhaemolytic hyperbilirubinaemia were evaluated. Stratification at randomisation was performed according to birth weight (<1000 g, 1000–1500 g or 1500–2000 g). Fifty-six infants received fibre optic and 68 conventional phototherapy. Efficacy was assessed by comparing the required duration of phototherapy. Median duration of phototherapy was 118 h and 114 h in the fibre optic and conventional groups respectively, the difference in which was not statistically significant. The median durations were also not significantly different within the separate weight groups. The number of infants requiring exchange transfusions was similar in both treatment groups. Conclusion The efficacy of fibre optic phototherapy in preterm infants is comparable to conventional phototherapy.
Minimally invasive proximal biceps tenodesis: an anatomical study for optimal placement and safe surgical technique

Background An anatomic study specifically investigating the optimal location for proximal biceps tenodesis and detailing the topographic relationship to neurovascular structures has not been conducted. Methods Twelve cadaveric upper extremities were dissected to identify the proximal biceps musculotendinous junction and topographic relationships to neighboring neurovascular structures. Results The musculotendinous junction of the long head of the biceps tendon was on average 2.2 cm distal to the superior border and 3.1 cm proximal from the inferior border of the pectoralis major tendon. The musculocutaneous nerve was on average 2.6 cm medial to the long head of the biceps at the musculotendinous junction. The distance from the lesser tuberosity to the musculotendinous junction of the long head of the biceps averaged 5.4 cm. The distance from the anterior humeral circumflex vessels to the musculotendinous junction of the long head of the biceps was 4.6 cm on average. The distance from the musculotendinous junction of the long head of the biceps to the musculocutaneous nerve as it pierces the coracobrachialis was 4.6 cm. Conclusion In order to restore the appropriate length-tension relationship of the biceps muscle, proximal biceps tenodesis should possibly be placed closer to the superior border of the pectoralis major tendon than previously thought. The lesser tuberosity can be used as a tactile landmark for appropriate intraoperative placement. Although there is a relatively safe “buffer zone” between the location of the tenodesis and adjacent neurovascular structures, extreme caution must be used.
Identification and functional characterization of α2-adrenoceptor polymorphisms

Abstract For each α 2 -adrenoceptor subtype (α 2A , α 2B and α 2C ), sequence variationswithin the coding region of each gene have been identified in humans. These result in substitutions or deletions of amino acids in the third intracellular loops of each receptor. This article summarizes the genetics and molecular biology of α 2 -adrenoceptor polymorphisms, including the consequences of each polymorphism on receptor signaling, as determined in transfected cells. These effects include alterations in G-protein coupling, desensitization and G-protein receptor kinase-mediated phosphorylation. Studies so far provide the mechanistic basis for future studies to investigate genetic risk factors and pharmacogenetics in pathophysiological conditions linked to α 2 -adrenoceptor function.
Acid-treated soy hull carbon structure and adsorption performance

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of 14 N phosphoric acid and 12 N hydrochloric acid treatments on soy hull carbon structure and adsorption performance. Scanning electron micrographs showed that acid treatments disrupted the carbon structure whereas X-ray diffraction data indicated that hydrochloric acid had a greater effect than phosphoric acid in creating a more amorphous carbon structure. Both acids significantly reduced carbon pH from 9.8, but hydrochloric acid reduced the pH to a much greater degree (pH 2.77) than phosphoric acid (pH 5.95). Both acids increased the carbon titratable surface charge. The greatest increase was in surface lactone and phenol groups, but increases were also seen in noncarboxylic carbonyls and the generation of carboxyls. Acidified carbon was most effective as a phospholipid adsorbent, and its lower affinity for other oil components may be due to competitive adsorption. Nonacidified carbon and hydrochloric acid-treated carbon adsorbed most free fatty acids, whereas the nonacidified control and commercial carbon control were most effective at adsorbing peroxides. However, vacuum adsorption conditions alone increased the contents of saturated carbonyls that were probably formed by peroxide cleavage.
Experimental and bioinformatics comparison of gene expression between T cells from TIL of liver cancer and T cells from UniGene.

The major difficulty of mapping parallel gene expression obtained from solid tumors is mainly due to contaminating cells. In this study, by applying a strategy of parallel gene expression at a cell-cluster or colony level, we have identified the gene expression pattern of T cells within tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) obtained from two liver cancer patients. Methods. Here a new method was utilized to analyze the parallel gene expression. By using bioinformatics analysis, the data were also compared with T-cell gene expression present in UniGene. Results. Our results demonstrated that 18 genes in specimen A and 13 genes in specimen B were highly expressed after the removal of a nonspecific TIL cDNA library, by pairing gene hybridization; the genes were expressed in CD3+ cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). By using BlastN search, 17 of the 18, and 12 of the 13 sequences were exhibited, respectively, in Homo sapiens, with a range of BlastN E values of 0 to 4 × 10−13. The LocusLink distribution in chromosomes obtained from both specimens was not significantly different; 17 of 19 putative genes (both specimen A and specimen B) were observed in the UniGene cluster in Homo sapiens, except for dihydropyrimidinase-related protein-3 and diacyglycerol kinase alpha. Interestingly, only 4 of 19 (21%) putative genes were displayed in the T-cell UniGene database (i.e., LD-78 in Hs. 73817, IL-8 in Hs. 624, TRAIL in Hs. 83429, and Fas ligand in Hs. 2007). Conclusions. By comparison with the reported data and UniGene, the parallel gene expression of T cells obtained from TIL can provide essential new insights into T-cell activity, T-cell extravasation into tumor tissues, and T-cell cytotoxicity against tumor cells.
Pulsed Operation of Cleaved-Facet InGaN Laser Diodes

Blue-emitting nitride laser diodes have been fabricated on a-plane sapphire (1120). The active region is composed of 10 In.18Ga.82N quantum wells, which were grown by MOCVD at atmospheric and low pressure in a modified two-flow Thomas-Swan Ltd. horizontal reactor. The chemical precursors used were trimethylgallium (TMGa), trimethylindium (TMIn), trimethylaluminum (TMAI), ammonia, and disilane. The n- and p-contacts were formed by depositing Ti/Al/Ni/Au and Ni/Au/Ni/Au, respectively. Diode wafers were thinned to less than 50 μm before they were cleaved along the sapphire r-plane (1120). Lasers show TE polarization, spectral line narrowing, and far field interference patterns above the lasing threshold. The laser emission spectra peak at 410–420 nm. Under pulsed operation at room temperature, the lowest observed threshold current density was 15 kA/cm2 with threshold voltages ranging from 50–90 V. Differential efficiencies are as high as 7% with maximum output powers greater than 50 mW. Near and far field mode patterns are presented. Structures are gain-guided devices with each device occupying a mesa with a width of 125 μm. Device widths range from 3 to 20 μm, with lengths of 500 to 1200 μm.
Mental transformations and visual comparison processes: effects of complexity and similarity.

Subjects were required to discriminate previously learned "standard" versions of angular shapes from randomly perturbed "distractor" versions that varied in similarity to the standard. Advance information concerning the identity and the orientation of the test form was provided. Subjects were instructed to prepare for the presentation of the test form by mentally rotating an internal representation of the designated standard form (identity cue) into the designated orientation.The time needed to prepare for the presentation of the test form increased linearly with the angular departure of the indicated orientation from a previously learned position. This finding suggests that, in accordance with instructions, subjects performed a mental rotation in preparing for the upcoming test shape. Rate of preparation was not affected by the complexity of the standard form presented as the identity cue. DIscriminative departure of the test form presented as the identity cue. Discriminative reaction time was not affected by either test-form complexity or angular departure of the test form from the learned orientation. In addition, striking individual differences in the pattern of discriminative reaction times were found. The implications of these results for (a) the nature of the processes and representations underlying the mental rotation task and (b) the nature of visual comparison processes are discussed. Language: en
The Impact of Testing Protocol on Recorded Gait Speed

Background Gait speed predicts disability, cognitive decline, hospitalization, nursing home admission and mortality. Although gait speed is often measured in clinical practice and research, testing protocols vary widely and their impact on recorded gait speed has yet to be explored.
Multiage Teachers' Beliefs and Practices

Abstract This study examines the instructional and organizational practices of multiage teachers in the intermediate elementary grades and the beliefs that guide their practices. Qualitative case study design was used to construct individual portraits and a cross-case analysis of four teachers in multiage classrooms serving students in grades 3 through 5. Data collected via interviews and classroom observations revealed four categories of beliefs to be salient across the cases: differentiated instruction, social collaboration, flexible grouping, and student interest. Other commonalities among the cases included team teaching, a separation by grade level for one content area, and identifying the role of the teacher as a facilitator of the learning process. Also, three of the four teachers had special education backgrounds, and all teachers were instrumental in initiating multiage programs in their districts.
Operational performance of the EVLA LO round-trip phase system

The goal of the Expanded Very Large Array (EVLA), project is to upgrade a world-class astronomical instrument in the meter-to-millimeter wavelength bands. The project combines modern technologies with the sound design of the existing Very Large Array (VLA) to increase by an order of magnitude the sensitivity, resolution, and frequency coverage of the existing instrument. This paper discusses the techniques used to maintain phase coherence of the EVLA system. The enhancements to the VLA system include improved feeds and receivers, new Local Oscillator (LO) and Intermediate Frequency (IF) systems, a fiber optic LO distribution system, high speed digitizers, 10Gbps digital links, a dense wavelength division multiplexed fiber transmission system, and a new high speed correlator. The phase requirement for the LO system requires that a phase stability of 2.8 picoseconds per hour at 40 GHz be maintained across the entire array. To accomplish this, a near real time continuous measurement will be made of the phase delay in the fiber optic cable distributing the LO reference signals to each antenna. This information will be used by the correlator to set the delay on each of the baselines in the array.
The reciprocal effects of extension quality and fit on parent brand attitude

The evidence for the reciprocal effects of a brand extension on its parent brand is unclear. An experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of an extension's quality, its fit with the parent brand, and parent brand dominance, on parent brand evaluation. The paper finds that extension quality and fit did not dilute parent brand attitude; in other words, an extension either left parent brand attitude unchanged or enhanced it moderately. The only effect of brand dominance was that it enhanced parent brand attitude when the extension was a good fit. Further, the introduction of an extension, regardless of its fit or quality, enhanced parent brand attitude for a durable product relative to a control group. It seems that parent brand attitudes are held strongly enough to resist the new information that is associated with a newly introduced brand extension.
Peanut protein concentrate: Production and functional properties as affected by processing

Abstract Peanut protein concentrate (PPC) was isolated from fermented and unfermented defatted peanut flour by isoelectric precipitation and physical separation procedures. PPC was dried by spray or vacuum drying. PPC powders from each drying technique were evaluated for proximate composition and functional properties (protein solubility, water/oil binding capacity, emulsifying capacity, foaming capacity and viscosity) along with defatted peanut flour and soy protein isolate as references. PPC contained over 85% protein versus 50% protein in the defatted peanut flour used as raw material for PPC production. PPC had a solubility profile similar to that of peanut flour, with minimum solubility observed at pH 3.5–4.5 and maximum solubility at pH 10 and higher. Roasting of peanut reduced all functional properties of defatted peanut flour while fermentation had the reverse effect. The type of drying significantly affected the functional properties of PPC. Spray dried PPCs exhibited better functional properties, particularly emulsifying capacity and foaming capacity, than vacuum oven dried PPC. Spray dried PPCs also showed comparable oil binding and foaming capacity to commercially available soy protein isolate (SPC). At equivalent concentrations and room temperature, PPC suspension exhibited lower viscosity than soy protein isolate (SPI) suspensions. However, upon heating to 90 °C for 30 min, the viscosity of PPC suspension increased sharply. Results obtained from this study suggest that the PPC could be used in food formulations requiring high emulsifying capacity, but would not be suitable for applications requiring high water retention and foaming capacity. PPC could be a good source of protein fortification for a variety of food products for protein deficient consumers in developing countries as well as a functional ingredient for the peanut industry. The production of PPC could also add value to defatted peanut flour, a low value by-product of peanut oil production.
A Terminal Mesozoic "Greenhouse": Lessons from the Past

The late Mesozoic rock and life records implicate short-term (up to 10(5) to 10(6) years) global warming resulting from carbon dioxide-induced "greenhouse" conditions in the late Maestrichtian extinctions that terminated the Mesozoic Era. Oxygen isotope data from marine microfossils suggest late Mesozoic climatic cooling into middle Maestrichtian, and warming thereafter into the Cenozoic. Animals adapting to climatic cooling could not adapt to sudden warming. Small calcareous marine organisms would have suffered solution effects of carbon dioxide-enriched waters; animals dependent upon them for food would also have been affected. The widespread terrestrial tropical floras would likely not have reflected effects of a slight climatic warming. In late Mesozoic, the deep oceanic waters may have been triggered into releasing vast amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere in a chain reaction of climatic warming and carbon dioxide expulsion. These conditions may be duplicated by human combustion of the fossil fuels and by forest clearing.
Calculating balanced diameter distributions associated with specified residual stand densities

A mathematical procedure is described for determining DeLiocourt's ratio q w in a balanced diameter distribution when a residual density is specified. Values of DeLiocourt's ratio ( q w ) associated with a range of maximum diameters, residual basal areas, and number of trees in the largest diameter class, m , are given. The total differential of q w is used to illustrate the sensitivity of q w to changes in m .
Accuracy of 3 T versus 1.5 T breast MRI for pre-operative assessment of extent of disease in newly diagnosed DCIS.

Abstract Objectives While 3 T breast magnetic resonance imaging has increased in use over the past decade, there is little data comparing its use for assessing ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) versus 1.5 T. We sought to compare the accuracies of DCIS extent of disease measures on pre-operative 3 T versus 1.5 T MRI. Methods This institutional review board-approved prospective study included 20 patients with ductal carcinoma in situ diagnosed by core needle biopsy (CNB) who underwent pre-operative breast MRI at both 3 T (resolution = 0.5 mm × 0.5 mm × 1.3 mm) and 1.5 T (0.85 mm × 0.85 mm × 1.6 mm). All patients provided informed consent, and the study was HIPPA compliant. Lesion sizes and imaging characteristics (morphologic and kinetic enhancement) were recorded for the 3 T and 1.5 T examinations. Lesion size measures at both field strengths were correlated to final pathology, and imaging characteristics also were compared. Results Of the initial cohort of 20 patients with CNB-diagnosed DCIS, 19 underwent definitive surgery. Median DCIS sizes of these 19 patients were 6 mm (range: 0–67 mm) on 3 T, 13 mm (0–60 mm) on 1.5 T, and 6 mm (0–55 mm) on surgical pathology. Size correlation between MRI and pathology was higher for 3 T (Spearman's ρ = 0.66, p = 0.002) than 1.5 T (ρ = 0.36, p = 0.13). In 10 women in which a residual area of suspicious enhancement was identified on both field strengths, there was agreement of morphologic description (NME vs. mass) in nine, and no significant difference in dynamic contrast enhanced kinetics at 3 T compared to 1.5 T. Conclusions Pre-operative breast MRI at 3 T provided higher correlation with final pathology size of DCIS lesions compared to 1.5 T, and may be more accurate for assessment of disease extent prior to definitive surgery.
Multiple-Dose Activated Charcoal Compared to Urinary Alkalinization for the Enhancement of Phenobarbital Elimination

Background: Urinary alkalinization and multiple-dose activated charcoal are modalities advocated for the enhancement of phenobarbital elimination in poisoned patients. However, no studies exist comparing the efficacy of these two means of elimination enhancement. We compared their effects on the pharmacokinetic disposition of intravenously administered phenobarbital. Methods: Ten healthy volunteers participated in each of three randomly ordered study phases. During each phase, 5 mg of intravenous phenobarbital per kilogram of body weight was administered. During phase I, no interventions were made in attempt to enhance phenobarbital elimination. In phase II, participants underwent 24 hours of urinary alkalinization. Throughout phase III, volunteers received six doses of activated charcoal and two doses of sorbitol over 24 hours. Results: The phenobarbital elimination half-life was 148 hours, 47 hours and 19 hours during the control, alkalinization and charcoal phases, respectively. Statistically significa...
An unusual case of STI in a teenager

A 16-year-old African-American female was referred to the teen clinic for follow-up after an emergency room visit. At the time of her visit to the emergency room she reported intermittent vaginal bleeding appearing sometimes red and sometimes dark in color and ranging from spotting to a moderate flow. Her past history is significant for use of Depo-Provera for approximately six months for birth control. She also reports previous treatment for gonorrhea. Her surgery history is negative. She has no chronic medical problems and has no complaints except for that of vaginal bleeding. Her physical exam at the time of the teen clinic visit revealed a well-developed well-nourished appropriately developed 16-year-old female without evidence of distress. Her entire physical exam was within normal limits. On pelvic exam her external genitalia were normal. Her vagina revealed a small amount of old blood and her cervix appeared closed and without visible lesions. Her bimanual exam revealed a uterus which was anteverted anteflexed slightly tender to palpation and approximately 11–12 weeks gestational size. Her bilateral adnexa were soft and non-tender without masses. (excerpt)
Human water needs

Healthy humans regulate daily water balance remarkably well across their lifespan despite changes in biological development and exposure to stressors on hydration status. Acute or chronic body water deficits result when intakes are reduced or losses increase, but day-to-day hydration is generally well maintained so long as food and fluid are readily available. Total water intake includes drinking water, water in beverages, and water in food. Daily water needs determined from fluid balance, water turnover, or consumption studies provide similar values for a given set of conditions. A daily water intake of 3.7 L for adult men and 2.7 L for adult women meets the needs of the vast majority of persons. However, strenuous physical exercise and heat stress can greatly increase daily water needs, and the individual variability between athletes can be substantial.
Generic technology, measurement, and standards issues in micromachining and microfabrication

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are integrally-fabricated hybrids of micromechanical and microelectronic elements which serve together as sensors, actuators or both. While there are proprietary issues in MEMS products currently in or near commercial production, there are also a number of generic technology, measurement and standards issues which may be addressed.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Action of estrogen and mechanical vaginocervical stimulation on the membrane excitability of hypothalamic and midbrain neurons.

Abstract The effect of vaginocervical stimulation (VCS) and estrogen iontophoresis on the electrical activity recorded in urethane-anesthetized female rats from medial preoptic-septal (MPO-S) and midbrain central gray (MCG) neurons was studied during two phases of the estrous cycle, namely metestrus (M) and late proestrus-estrus (LP-E). The spontaneous discharge rate of both MPO-S and MCG neurons varied over the two stages of the estrous cycle. The spontaneous electrical activity of the MPO-S neurons was higher during M than during LP-E whereas MCG unit activity was low during M and higher during LP-E. The VCS-evoked changes in unit activity were specific, in that they were observed in response to mechanical genital stimulation and not in response to painful stimuli and/or nonspecific arousal. These responses were not dependent on the stage of estrous cycle. Finally, the iontophoresis of 17β-estradiol hemisuccinate evoked electrophysiological responses from MPO-S and MCG neurons. More MPO-S neurons were responsive to estrogen in LP-E than in M, while fewer MCG neurons were responsive to estrogen in LP-E than in M. The results clearly show that ongoing electrical activity of hypothalamic and midbrain nerve cells can fluctuate between M and LP-E phases of the estrous cycle and change with vaginocervical probing as well as iontophoretically applied estrogen. Furthermore, the results suggest the existence of a reciprocal relationship between the membrane activity of MPO-S and MCG neurons which may be related to CNS control of reproductive activities.
The isolation of C14-labeled pyridoxamine from Candida utilis A.T.C.C. 9950

An ion-exchange chromatographic procedure was devised for the isolation of the entire pyridoxamine content of yeast cells in order to make possible the study of the biogenesis of vitamin B 6 by isotopic tracer techniques. Pyridoxamine per se was isolated from a natural source for the first time and was identified by comparison of its chemical, physical, and biological properties with authentic pyridoxamine. Pyridoxamine and pyridoxal were the only substances found in extracts of Candida utilis A.T.C.C. 9950 which promoted the growth of a vitamin B 6 -requiring mutant of Streptococcus faecalis C. utilis was grown on sucrose as the main carbon source in the presence of various C 14 -labeled substrates. In each case the entire pyridoxamine content of the yeast cells was isolated and, after adding carrier pyridoxamine, it was recrystallized to constant specific activity. Serine-3-C 14 , alanine-1-C 14 , acetate-1-C 14 , and acetate-2-C 14 gave rise to C 14 -labeled pyridoxamine. The observed levels of incorporation were too low to permit a definitive interpretation of these results in terms of the biosynthesis of vitamin B 6 .
Microwave Engineering Fundamentals and Spectrometer Design

This introductory chapter is intended as a concise overview of microwave technology and the various devices that comprise a conventional electron magnetic resonance spectrometer. It is hoped that it will serve the reader with background information that is relevant to the necessary understanding of instrument operation, as well as be a precursor to the chapters that follow and describe many of the new advances in EMR spectrometer technology. The three major sections of this chapter correspond to the functional subsystems that would exist in a typical spectrometer, namely the microwave source, transmission line devices, and the receiver.
tetA(L) Mutants of a Tetracycline-Sensitive Strain of Bacillus subtilis with the Polynucleotide Phosphorylase Gene Deleted

The tetA(L) gene of Bacillus subtilis Marburg 168 strains confers low-level resistance to tetracycline (TET). This gene was identified by Williams and Smith (17), who isolated mutants of B. subtilis that were able to grow on 50 mg of TET/ml. Sakaguchi and Shishido (15) cloned this gene and showed that its presence on a plasmid conferred inducible TET resistance on B. subtilis. The tetA(L) gene normally confers resistance to concentrations of TET up to 2 mg/ml. Upon protoplast regeneration (10, 18) or transformation with a tetA(L)-containing plasmid (9), amplification of the chromosomal tetA(L) locus can occur, resulting in significantly elevated levels of TET resistance. Krulwich and colleagues demonstrated that the tetA(L) gene product functions as a TET-metal/H 1 antiporter and as a physiologically significant Na 1 /H 1 antiporter (3, 5). By using tetA(L)-lacZ fusion strains, it was demonstrated that expression of tetA(L) was induced 25-fold in the presence of
It's the Prices, Stupid: The Underlying Problems of the U.S. Social Security System

At the center of the on-going debate about the U.S. Social Security system is the question of whether the way the system is financed can cope with the future challenges posed by the retiring Baby Boom generation. The "reformers" suggest changing the design of the system by moving to fully funded defined contribution retirement plans. Others argue that the so-called demographic problems are being used as an excuse to privatize the system. But both sides spend almost all of their energy and time figuring out the timing of insolvency of the system and the validity of the assumptions made in each forecast. In contrast, the present study closely examines the changing macroeconomic dynamics of the system since the 1960s. The analysis shows that undermining of the system is caused not by demographic changes or financing mechanisms but by low wages and medical inflation.
Positive effects of animals for psychosocially vulnerable people: a turning point for delivery

Publisher Summary This chapter first reviews the research-based information about the benefits of pets, especially for the most vulnerable people, and then addresses the practical implementation of this expanding research. The positive psychosocial effects of human/animal relationships engage interest, arising from firsthand experiences with pet animals and scientific curiosity, as well as the practical questions concerning how best to include pets as an adjunct for treatment for an autistic child or a paraplegic veteran, or to enhance the quality of life of an elderly person in an assisted-living facility. Despite the ever-growing research literature on the psychosocial effects of animals, a significant gap remains between that knowledge base and implementing it into treatment or support services for psychosocially vulnerable people. This chapter suggests that to enjoy the positive effects, a relationship with an animal should be individually tailored to the psychosocial characteristics of the person. Epidemiological studies of entire communities identify subcultures where certain individual circumstances, neighborhoods, geographical features, or special situations are associated with beneficial or adverse health parameters. Employing epidemiological methods with statistical representation of the entire community offers a view of the context, including the community's affluence, geography, age, gender, and ethnicity of pet-owning participants. The new development will spearhead the creation and availability of curricular resources and enhance the number of people prepared to provide leadership in the area of human/animal interaction, bringing research into practice.
MULTISPECTRAL IMAGING SYSTEM FOR FECAL AND INGESTA DETECTION ON POULTRY CARCASSES

A multispectral imaging system, including a common aperture camera with three optical trim filters (515.4, 566.4 and 631 nm), which were selected by visible/near-infrared NIR spectroscopy and validated by a hyperspectral imaging system, was developed for a real-time, on-line poultry inspection application. The algorithm developed by a hyperspectral imaging system was employed for multispectral image analysis to validate the accuracy of fecal and ingesta detection in real-time poultry processing. A multispectral imaging system could be used effectively for detecting feces (from duodenum, ceca, and colon) and ingesta on the surface of poultry carcasses with the processing time of approximately 251 ms or 3.99 frames/s. The multispectral imaging system developed in this research can be used for real-time, on-line detection of fecal and ingesta contaminant on poultry carcasses. The overall accuracy to identify fecal and ingesta contaminants was 96.8% and the prediction accuracy to identify each contaminant were 92.4% for duodenum and 98% for ceca, colon, and ingesta with moderate false positives.