cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does conformational free energy distinguish loop conformations in proteins

Limitations in protein homology modeling often arise from the inability to adequately model loops. In this paper we focus on the selection of loop conformations. We present a complete computational treatment that allows the screening of loop conformations to identify those that best fit a molecular model. The stability of a loop in a protein is evaluated via computations of conformational free energies in solution, i.e., the free energy difference between the reference structure and the modeled one. A thermodynamic cycle is used for calculation of the conformational free energy, in which the total free energy of the reference state (i.e., gas phase) is the CHARMm potential energy. The electrostatic contribution of the solvation free energy is obtained from solving the finite-difference Poisson-Boltzmann equation. The nonpolar contribution is based on a surface area-based expression. We applied this computational scheme to a simple but well-characterized system, the antibody hypervariable loop (complementarity-determining region, CDR). Instead of creating loop conformations, we generated a database of loops extracted from high-resolution crystal structures of proteins, which display geometrical similarities with antibody CDRs. We inserted loops from our database into a framework of an antibody; then we calculated the conformational free energies of each loop. Results show that we successfully identified loops with a "reference-like" CDR geometry, with the lowest conformational free energy in gas phase only. Surprisingly, the solvation energy term plays a confusing role, sometimes discriminating "reference-like" CDR geometry and many times allowing "non-reference-like" conformations to have the lowest conformational free energies (for short loops). Most "reference-like" loop conformations are separated from others by a gap in the gas phase conformational free energy scale. Naturally, loops from antibody molecules are found to be the best models for long CDRs (> or = 6 residues), mainly because of a better packing of backbone atoms into the framework of the antibody model.
Structure in the Energy Distribution of Photoelectrons from K 3 Sb and Cs 3 Sb

The energy distributions of photoelectrons from ${\mathrm{K}}_{3}$Sb and ${\mathrm{Cs}}_{3}$Sb show structure that is similar in form to structure in the spectral dependence of the optical absorption. One may rationalize this empirical result by saying that both the photoelectric and optical effects arise from structure in the state density of the valence band. Assuming that the optical absorption involves transitions to the conduction band, a lower limit for the electron affinity of the crystal is 0.6 ev for ${\mathrm{K}}_{3}$Sb and 0.4 ev for ${\mathrm{Cs}}_{3}$Sb.
Simultaneous assessment of growth hormone and ACTH reserve in children pretreated with diethylstilbestrol.

ABSTRACT Plasma growth hormone (GH) and cortisol responses to insulin-induced hypoglycemia were evaluated in children with growth retardation of various etiologies before and after 3 days of diethylstilbestrol (DES) therapy. It was found that DES not only enhances peak GH responses (mean concentrations were 11.5 ng/ml vs. 19 ng/ml at 60 minutes) but that 4 out of 5 children with absent or blunted GH responses before DES had normal responses after DES. When plasma cortisol concentrations were measured simultaneously, it was found that baseline and 60 minute levels were elevated following DES. However, the 60 minute cortisol response to insulin-hypoglycemia, measured during GH testing, could still be used to assess ACTH reserve. Twentynine children with normal GH responses all achieved 60 minute plasma cortisol values of 40 μg/100 ml or greater, while 5 children with GH deficiency secondary to organic pituitary disease had significantly lower levels. Four patients with idiopathic GH deficiency were tested a...
Phase Stepping Algorithm For Unknown Irregular Steps: Applications in Dispersed Interferometry

We process externally dispersed interferometer spectral data with a novel phase-stepping algorithm tolerating steps of unknown irregular phase and visibility, which change significantly across a 0.9 to 2.5 micron bandwidth.
TOWARDS REAL-TIME CUSTOMIZED MANAGEMENT OF SUPPLY AND DEMAND CHAINS

Our focus herein is on developing an effective taxonomy for the simultaneous and real-time management of supply and demand chains. More specifically, the taxonomy is developed in terms of its underpinning components and its research foci. From a components perspective, we first consider the value chain of supplier, manufacturer, assembler, retailer, and customer, and then develop a consistent set of definitions for supply and demand chains based on the location of the customer order penetration point. From a research perspective, we classify the methods that are employed in the management of these chains, based on whether supply and/or demand are flexible or fixed. Interestingly, our taxonomy highlights a very critical research area at which both supply and demand are flexible, thus manageable. Simultaneous management of supply and demand chains sets the stage for mass customization which is concerned with meeting the needs of an individualized customer market. Simultaneous and real-time management of supply and demand chains set the stage for real-time mass customization (e.g., wherein a tailor first laser scans an individual’s upper torso and then delivers a uniquely fitted jacket within a reasonable period, while the individual is waiting). The benefits of real-time mass customization can not be over-stated as products and services become indistinguishable and are co-produced in real-time, resulting in an overwhelming economic advantage.
Isolation and growth characteristics of continuous cell lines from small-cell carcinoma of the lung

Sixteen continuous tumor-cell cultures have been isolated from 91 tissue specimens from patients with small-cell carcinoma of the lung. Biopsy and autopsy specimens of primary and metastatic tumors have been utilized. The developing cell lines were recognized by proliferation of tumor cells in the culture from one to 14 weeks after explantation and have been maintained for up to four years. Primary lung tumor, bone marrow aspirations, pleural effusions and other metastases have all been productive explant material for the development of cell lines. Their human origin has been demonstrated by chromosome and/or isoenzyme analysis. Dense core vesicles, characteristically found in small-cell tumor cells were observed by electron microscopic examination of cultured cells. Growth rates in vitro have been measured and the in vitro cycle time in tumors of one cell line (DMS 79) has been compared with in vivo cycle time in tumors arising from DMS 79 cells in nude athymic mice.
Albert Einstein: 14 March, 1879-18 April, 1955 A guide for the perplexed

This brief collection of direct and indirect quotations by or about Albert Einstein is offered as a tribute in honour of the centenary of his birth. The selection makes no attempt to be complete but does try to be representative of his attitude towards science and mathematics. As this selection is addressed to a primarily scientific audience, his views concerning his two most important creations, quantum theory and relativity, are particularly stressed toward the end.
Parathyroid cytology: Avoiding diagnostic pitfalls

Background Interpretation of parathyroid fine-needle aspirates (FNA) remains problematic not only because this type of specimen is rare but also because the pertinent literature is very limited. We systematically reviewed parathyroid FNAs in our files and sought to delineate additional diagnostic criteria. Design Review of all thyroid and parathyroid aspirates from January 1990 to June 1998 disclosed 12 parathyroid lesions. The final diagnoses included four parathyroid adenomas, one intrathyroidal hyperplastic parathyroid, one intrathyroidal parathyroid adenoma, one atypical parathyroid adenoma (all confirmed by histologic screening or immunocytochemistry), and five parathyroid cysts (all confirmed by immunoassay). Papanicolaou and Diff Quik–stained smears of the parathyroid FNAs were reviewed. The cytologic features were compared and contrasted with those of thyroid FNAs to establish criteria for differential diagnoses. Results The FNAs of the five parathyroid cysts yielded virtually acellular fluid with a characteristic water-clear appearance and markedly elevated levels of parathyroid hormone. The remaining seven aspirates consisted of moderately cellular smears that showed an admixture of architectural features. Common patterns included cohesive three-dimensional groups, disorganized sheets, papillary fragments, microfollicles, and a single case showing lymphoidlike smears. Although the cells were generally small and round to oval, all cases demonstrated mild to moderate anisokaryosis. The nuclei were hyperchromatic Ewith coarsely granular chromatin reminiscent of that of small lymphocytes. Occasional nucleoli were noted. Although the cytoplasm was usually pale blue and finely granular with ill-defined borders, two cases showed well-delineated cytoplasmic membranes. Less common findings included cytoplasmic granulation, vacuolization, and rare oxyphilic cells. Naked nuclei were noted in the background of all of the aspirates to varying degrees. Other background findings included the presence of colloidlike material, macrophages, and lymphocytes. One interesting finding that to date has not been reported is the presence of nuclear overlapping (100%) and nuclear molding (71%), which is an uncommon finding in thyroid aspirates. Conclusions FNAs of the parathyroid can be easily confused with that of the thyroid, not only because of the clinical similarity between these two types of lesions but also because of the overlap in cytomorphologic features of the aspirated cells. Although no one single cytomorphologic feature is diagnostic, a combination of cytologic parameters noted earlier should raise the possibility of a parathyroid lesion. Aspirates of parathyroid cysts show acellular water-clear fluid with elevated parathyroid hormone measurements. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Differences in the Urinary Excretion of 6‐β‐Hydroxycortisol/Cortisol between Asian and Caucasian Women

The urinary ratio of 6-beta-hydroxycortisol/cortisol has been used as a noninvasive probe for human cytochrome P450 3A4 isoforms (CYP3A4). Ethnic-related differences in the ratio have not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine if there are differences in the ratio between Asian and Caucasian women over a menstrual cycle. First-morning urine samples were collected every other day starting from the second day of menstruation for a complete menstrual cycle from 15 Asians and 16 Caucasian women who were 18 to 40 years old, healthy, nonsmoking, and alcohol and drug free, including oral contraceptives. Urine concentrations of 6-beta-hydroxycortisol and cortisol were measured by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). For statistical analysis, three phases of the menstrual cycle were evaluated: menstruation (days 1-4), follicular or postmenstruation (days 6-10), and the luteal phase (days 21-24) based on the average menstrual cycle (28 days). Statistical analysis was performed by an independent sample t-test using the Bonferroni correction for repeated measures. Large intersubject and intrasubject variations of the 6-beta-hydroxycortisol/cortisol ratios were observed during the menstrual cycles in both ethnic groups. Asian women had a statistically significant lower ratio than Caucasian women did for all three phases of the menstrual cycle: 2.2 +/- 1.1 versus 5.1 +/- 3.5, 2.1 +/- 1.1 versus 6.0 +/- 4.9, and 2.8 +/- 1.6 versus 5.6 +/- 3.0 for the menstruation, follicular, and luteal phases, respectively. The two- to threefold lower 6-beta-hydroxycortisol/cortisol ratios in Asian women suggest that Asian women may have a lower CYP3A activity compared with Caucasian women. Differences in ethnicity may mask potential gender-related effects if ethnic background is not evaluated as a contributing factor.
Image analysis method for overcoming source distortion using algebraic invariant methods

For multispectral sensory and geospatial data to be properly integrated they must be co-registered with known data which is a difficult and time consuming process. A persistent problem with new unregistered data is geometric image distortion. This paper deals with distortion due to disproportional transformation. Images can be disproportionally transformed because of a specific angle of data acquisition, sensor and lens distortions, atmospheric effects, and others factors. This research is focused on developing a method to overcome such distortion effects and to provide computational tools to automate a large portion of the process without relying on the sensor geometry and model that may not be known. Current methods of image analysis and feature recognition rely heavily on geometric shapes and/or the topological nature of data contained within the image. In addition to geometric shapes and topological data, features and images can also be compared algebraically. Algebraic structures have been defined with which comparisons can be made between geometric components such as relative angles, and lengths. Invariant point placement and feature comparison methods are developed here that can overcome the effect of distortion and disproportional scaling. Deriving a method that is invariant to disproportional scaling that is based on an algebraic invariant method is a new approach to solving this problem and represents a new mathematical language for the processing of image data.
A G2 population of cells in autogenous rodent sarcoma

Abstract Continuous infusion of 3H-TdR was carried out in rats with autogenous methylcholanthrene-induced connective tissue sarcomas, for forty hours, which is the duration of the generation time of the tumor cells. Forty-five % of the cells were labeled. Twenty-seven % of the mitoses were unlabeled. They were derived from cells which had completed DNA synthesis and had spent at least 40 h in G2. The presence of this large cohort of G2 cells may account for some of the variations in the growth patterns of tumors.
Analysis of crystal growth characteristics in a conventional vertical Bridgman configuration

Abstract The growth behavior in a conventional vertical Bridgman system was studied experimentally using gallium-doped germanium. The effects of varying modes of heat extraction from the seed end, the charge lowering rate, and the temperature distribution in the furnace on growth were investigated. It was found that the microscopic growth rate is transient at all times and that the growth interface remains concave into the solid. Initial transients follow a first order exponential rate law in most thermal configurations; extended configurational rate transients could be attributed to thermal end effects. The location of the control thermocouple was found to critically affect the growth behavior.
Improving outcomes in a high-output pediatric otolaryngology practice

Abstract Objectives To identify factors associated with efficient operating room work flow on high volume pediatric otolaryngology days and the effects on provider and perceived parent satisfaction. Methods Retrospective review was performed of a sample of 20 days with greater than 10 cases per day performed by a pediatric otolaryngologist operating in 2 rooms. Turnover time and complications were the main outcome measures. Providers from otolaryngology and anesthesia that participated in these days were surveyed regarding efficiency, safety, and satisfaction. Results 223 cases were performed over 20 operative days. The average turnover time was significantly longer in “major” surgeries (p = 0.03), cases with multispecialty involvement (p = 0.01), cases requiring intubation (p 25 min average turnover) days, presence of a non-fellowship trained anesthesiologist (p Conclusions High-operative volume operating days are common in pediatric otolaryngology and can be safely performed in an efficient manner. Appropriate scheduling and high-level communication between providers is needed to ensure success on these days. Identified areas of potential inefficiency can be a starting point for work flow optimization practices.
An active circulator-gyrotron traveling-wave amplifier

A recent experiment demonstrated that wide-band amplification of millimeter waves is feasible by using a tapered gyrotron traveling-wave amplifier (gyro-TWA) of the reflection type. In this paper, we show that the difficult problem of input/output coupling in such a reflection amplifier may be solved simply by the use of an almost square waveguide, with or without a dielectric lining. An input signal in the form of TE\min{01}\max_{\square} mode, say, is injected from the downstream of the electron beam of the gyro-TWA. It propagates upstream and is reflected by the constriction of the tapered waveguide. By a judicious choice of the waveguide dimensions and of the magnetic field profile, we find that it is possible for the reflected wave to be strongly amplified in the TE\min{10}\max_{\square} mode, which has a polarization orthogonal to the input mode, thereby permittting easy separation of the input and the output signal. This novel device thus performs the dual function of an amplifier and of a circulator with wide bandwidth and good power handling capabilities at millimeter wavelengths. This optimism is based on the numerical studies presented in this paper. Furthermore, the simultaneous presence of the TE\min{01}\max_{\square} and TE\min{10}\max_{\square} modes is found to strengthen the beam-circuit interaction. All of the known advantages of the reflection gyro-TWA, such as the lack of the 9-dB launching loss and the insensitivity to the beam velocity spread, are expected to be preserved in this device. The effects of reflection from the load is considered in some detail. A Proof-of-Principle experiment is suggested.
Simian virus 40 small t antigen cooperates with mitogen-activated kinases to stimulate AP-1 activity.

Abstract The simian virus 40 small tumor antigen (small t) specifically interacts with protein phosphatase type 2A (PP2A) in vivo and alters its catalytic activity in vitro. Among the substrates for PP2A in vitro are the activated forms of MEK and ERK kinases. Dephosphorylation of the activating phosphorylation sites on MEK and ERKs by PP2A in vitro results in a decrease in their respective kinase activities. Recently, it has been shown that overexpression of small t in CV-1 cells results in an inhibition of PP2A activity toward MEK and ERK2 and a constitutive upregulation of MEK and ERK2 activity. Previously, we have observed that overexpression of either ERK1, MEK1, or a constitutively active truncated form of c-Raf-1 (BXB) is insufficient to activate AP-1 in REF52 fibroblasts. We therefore examined whether overexpression of small t either alone or in conjunction with ERK1, MEK1, or BXB could activate AP-1. We found that coexpression of small t and either ERK1, MEK1, or BXB resulted in an increase in AP-1 activity, whereas expression of either small t or any of the kinases alone did not have any effect. Similarly, coexpression of small t and ERK1 activated serum response element-regulated promoters. Coexpression of kinase-deficient mutants of ERK1 and ERK2 inhibited the activation of AP-1 caused by expression of small t and either MEK1 or BXB. Coexpression of an interfering MEK, which inhibited AP-1 activation by small t and BXB, did not inhibit the activation of AP-1 caused by small t and ERK1. In contrast to REF52 cells, we observed that overexpression of either small or ERK1 alone in CV-1 cells was sufficient to stimulate AP-1 activity and that this stimulation was not enhanced by expression of small t and ERK1 together. These results show that the effects of small t on immediate-early gene expression depend on the cell type examined and suggest that the mitogen-activated protein kinase activation pathway is distinctly regulated in different cell types.
Morphological differentiation of murine neuroblastoma induced by liposomes lipid specificity and pathway of liposome uptake

Abstract A variety of phospholipid vesicles (liposomes) induce morphological differentiation in murine neuroblastoma cells in vitro. This effect is observed when such vesicles are incubated with cells either continuously or for short periods of time in the presence or absence of serum, is not mediated by a specific mode of liposome-cell interaction, and is accompanied by a significant retardation of cell proliferation. Besides phospholipids, fatty acids are also capable of inducing neurite outgrowth in a dose-dependent fashion and thus appear to mediate this effect.
Multiple intermolecular interaction modes of positively charged residues with adenine in ATP-binding proteins.

Adenosine 5‘-triphosphate (ATP) plays an essential role in all forms of life. Molecular recognition of ATP in ATP-binding proteins is a subject of great importance for understanding enzymatic mechanisms and for drug design. We have carried out a large-scale data mining of the Protein Data Bank (PDB) to analyze molecular determinants for recognition of ATP, in particular, the adenine base, by ATP-binding proteins. A novel distribution pattern of charged residues around the adenine base was discovered: lysine residues tend to occupy the major groove N7 side of the adenine base, and the arginine residues situate preferentially above or below the adenine bases. Such an arrangement is advantageous because it facilitates multiple modes of intermolecular interactions, that is, cation−π interactions and a hydrogen bond between lysine and adenine, and cation−π and π−π stacking interactions between arginine and adenine. For the two representative Lys···Adenine and Arg···Adenine interactions, intermolecular interac...
Which Performance Measures Do Investors Around the World Value the Most—and Why?

ABSTRACT: We examine the value relevance of a comprehensive set of summary performance measures including sales, earnings, comprehensive income, and operating cash flows. We find that, while value relevance peaks for measures “above the line,” no single measure dominates around the world. Instead, a measure is more relevant when it captures, directly and quickly, information about firms’ cash flows. Specifically, for each performance measure by country, we estimate eight attributes commonly used to assess earnings quality. We find these attributes highly correlated—most of their variance is explained by only two principal factors. A factor capturing articulation with cash flows is positively associated with a measure’s value relevance; a factor reflecting the measure’s persistence, predictability, smoothness, and conservatism is negatively associated. Our results suggest that, when it comes to equity valuation, accounting researchers and standard-setters should focus not on what performance measure is “be...
The potential near-source ozone impacts of upstream oil and gas industry emissions

Increased drilling in urban areas overlying shale formations and its potential impact on human health through decreased air quality make it important to estimate the contribution of oil and gas activities to photochemical smog. Flares and compressor engines used in natural gas operations, for example, are large sources not only of NOx but also of formaldehyde, a hazardous air pollutant and powerful ozone precursor. We used a neighborhood scale (200 m horizontal resolution) three-dimensional (3D) air dispersion model with an appropriate chemical mechanism to simulate ozone formation in the vicinity of a hypothetical natural gas processing facility, based on accepted estimates of both regular and nonroutine emissions. The model predicts that, under average midday conditions in June, regular emissions mostly associated with compressor engines may increase ambient ozone in the Barnett Shale by more than 3 ppb beginning at about 2 km downwind of the facility, assuming there are no other major sources of ozone ...
STUDIES ON THE RED AND BLUE FORMS OF THE PIGMENT OF BLEPHARISMA

— –The intracellular pigment of the ciliate protozoan Blepharisma in the presence of oxygen sensitizes the cells to bright visible light (2700 foot candles (fc)). Illumination of the cells with dim visible light (200 fc) changes the color of the pigment to blue-gray; such cells are no longer sensitive to bright visible light. The pigment which exists in granules can be extruded by cold treatment and is slowly regenerated. The suspension of red cells, the extruded pigment from them and an ethanol extract of the pigment all have very similar absorption spectra. Illumination of the red pigment in ethanol converts it to the blue form of the pigment but only if oxygen is present, indicating a photooxidation. The pigment can be oxidized in darkness to the blue form by ozonation. A suspension of blue cells, the extruded pigment from them and an ethanol extract from them, all have similar absorption spectra. The pigments in red and blue form are very similar spectrophotometrically and in solubility in three species of Blepharisma studies: B. americanum, B. intermedium and B. japonicum. The purified pigment has strong absorption in the far (200–300 nm) ultraviolet (u.v.) and may serve as a screen against damaging U.V. radiation, especially as Blepharisma shows poor photoreactivation.
Why do female prairie dogs copulate with more than one male?—Insights from long-term research

Abstract A female usually obtains sufficient sperm to fertilize all her eggs from a single insemination, and mating can be costly. Yet, paradoxically, polyandry (i.e., copulation with 2 or more males) is common among organisms of all types, from amoebae through humans. Research that spanned 35 years shows that females of 3 species of prairie dogs benefited from polyandry by rearing more yearlings (a component of fitness that is my best estimate of female reproductive success); females of a 4th species (the black-tailed prairie dog [Cynomys ludovicianus]) evidently did not benefit from polyandry. Reasons for the higher production of yearlings by polyandrous females differed among species. For Gunnison's prairie dogs (C. gunnisoni), 3 other components of fitness contributed to the higher production of yearlings: a higher probability of conception and parturition, larger litter size at weaning, and a higher survivorship of offspring during the first 9 months after weaning. The 2nd and 3rd components applied ...
Primary preventive health care in children with heart disease

In order to evaluate the preventive health care practices in children with heart disease, 499 families were surveyed in outpatient settings. Data were collected on 215 children with heart disease and 284 control children without known chronic illness. There was no significant difference between the groups in the type of primary physician utilized or frequency of visits to the primary care physician. Immunizations were incomplete in 32.7% of the children with heart disease compared to only 2.5% in the control group (P<0.0001). Among the children over 3 years of age with heart disease, 29% had not received routine dental care within the past year compared with 23.4% in the controls (P=NS). The parents of children with heart disease were found to pay less money out-of-pocket for their child's health care than the parents of control children (P<0.0001). The data suggest that important aspects of primary health care were neglected in a large group of children with heart disease and that cost was not a major cause for the inadequate preventive care delivery. An educational program directed at health care professionals and parents is proposed.
An explanation of why shareholders' losses are so large after drug recalls

Recent studies show firms suffering drug recalls experience security losses many times larger than any reasonable measure of their direct cost. We discover that the implied standard deviation of stock returns from the Black-Scholes option pricing model significantly increases after a drug recall. The implied standard deviation provides a good proxy for the stock's ex ante beta. The higher systematic risk after a product recall must raise the discount rate used by investors. After a recall, stock prices are reduced in line with the lower expected future earnings and are further reduced because of a higher discount rate.
An indoor study to evaluate a mixed-reality interface for unmanned aerial vehicle operations in near earth environments

As the appeal and proliferation of UAVs increase, they are beginning to encounter environments and scenarios for which they were not initially designed. As such, changes to the way UAVs are operated, specifically the operator interface, are being developed to address the newly emerging challenges. Efforts to increase pilot situational awareness led to the development of a mixed reality chase view piloting interface. Chase view is similar to a view of being towed behind the aircraft. It combines real world onboard camera images with a virtual representation of the vehicle and the surrounding operating environment. A series of UAV piloting experiments were performed using a flight simulation package, UAV sensor suite, and an indoor, six degree of freedom, robotic gantry. Subjects' behavioral performance while using an onboard camera view and a mixed reality chase view interface during missions was analyzed. Subjects' cognitive workload during missions was also assessed using subjective measures such as NASA task load index and non-subjective brain activity measurements using a functional Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIR) system. Behavioral analysis showed that the chase view interface improved pilot performance in near Earth flights and increased their situational awareness. fNIR analysis showed that a subjects cognitive workload was significantly less while using the chase view interface.
Topical tretinoin: its use in daily practice to reverse photoageing.

SUMMARY The effect of o-1 % tretinoin cream for the treatment of photoageing was studied in a doubleblind, placebo-controlled trial. All patients applied tretinoin cream to one forearm and the vehicle cream to the other, and half of the patients also applied tretinoin cream to the face and the other half used the vehicle cream. Tretinoin treatment produced an improvement in the signs of extrinsic ageing conipared with the vehicle-treated areas. Fine wrinkling was improved most, although coarse wrinkling, brown spots, tactile roughness and overall skin colour also showed clear improvement. The majority of lentigines and sun-induced freckles showed some reduction in coloration with extended treatment. It is important when using tretinoin that the treatment procedure is carefully explained to the patients and that they are warned about a retinoid reaction. It should be stressed that improvement is gradual and that regular application of the cream must continue even after improvement has been achieved. Patients should be assured that there is no evidence of carcinogenicity in humans. Although no teratogenic effects of tretinoin have been reported when applied topically, it is not advisable to use the cream when trying to conceive or when pregnant. Tretinoin (all-rra«5-retinoic acid) has been used topically for the treatment of acne for the last two decades. More recently, it has been successfully tested and prescribed for the reversal of photoageing ^••^ but, in order to achieve significant improvement using topical tretinoin, patients must be carefully educated in how to apply the medication and on the degree of improvement that they can expect. An overview of the use of topical tretinoin in photoageing is presented and how patients should be instructed on the proper use of this medication is considered.
Identification and characterization of human MUS81-MMS4 structure specific endonuclease

Replication forks may stall when they reach a block on the DNA template such as DNA damage, and the recovery of such stalled replication forks plays a crucial role in the maintenance of genomic stability. Holliday junctions, which are X-shaped DNA structures, are formed at the stalled replication forks and can accumulate if they are not cleaved by structure-specific endonucleases. Recently, a novel nuclease involved in resolving Holliday junction-like structures, Mus81, has been reported in yeast and humans. MUS81 has sequence homology to another DNA nuclease, XPF, which, with its partner ERCC1, makes the 5 ′ incision during nucleotide excision repair. MUS81 also has a binding partner named Mms4 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Eme1 in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, but no such partner was identified in human cells. Here, we report identification of the binding partner of human MUS81, which we designate hMMS4. Using immunoaffinity purification we show that hMUS81 or hMMS4 alone have no detectable nuclease activity, but that the hMUS81 ·hMMS4 complex is a structure-specific nuclease that is capable of resolving fork structures.
The Mind's Eye of Reform: The ICC's Bureau of Statistics and Accounts and a Vision of Regulation, 1887–1940

By examining the relationship between measurement and regulation at the Interstate Commerce Commission between 1887 and 1940, the following article sheds light on a little-studied component of the commission's work. It argues that the nature of the accounting and statistical tools used by the ICC had an impact on the regulatory process, specifically that the difficulties encountered in the development of accurate and relevant railroad statistics often undermined the agency's ability to achieve its regulatory goals. At the same time, a changing economic, political, and social environment affected the regulators' perception of the type of data necessary to gain control of the industry's structure.
Rapid formation of distributed plasma discharges using X-band microwaves

Preliminary observations of rapidly formed (&#60;50 ns) distributed plasma discharges using X-band microwaves are presented. The following setup establishes the conditions necessary to study complex microwave discharges. The microwave discharge test chamber is an L-band brass rectangular waveguide with polycarbonate windows. The chamber is illuminated by the output of 25 kW, 0.8 µs pulse-width, 9.382 GHz magnetron through an X-band waveguide pressed against the chamber's polycarbonate window. The chamber is filled with Ne, Ar, or a mixture to create a Penning discharge. Isolation between incident and reflected ports is achieved with an X-band circulator and the incident power is varied using a circulator, an E-H tuner, and matched load. Measured incident, reflected, and transmitted microwave power arising from the plasma provide discharge breakdown characteristics and attenuation characterization at pressures between 10 and 760 torr. Observations of localized transmission spike measurements of −20 dB that occur within 50 ns caused by the plasma have been made. Additionally, a 12.5 GHz continuous wave source permits measurement of breakdown and plasma decay. A photomultiplier tube sensitive from 128nm–850nm allows observation of plasma formation. Also, an ICCD provides fast time-scale images of the plasma. Plasma modeling using reflection and transmission coefficients based on plasma properties allows for experimental data results to be compared with theoretical behavior.
The effect of sampling intensity on patterns of rarity and community assessment metrics in stream fish samples

Abstract Rare stream fish species are important indicators in bioassessment and conservation. We examined the effect of sampling intensity on observed rarity and fish community assessment in backpack electrofishing samples by comparing one-backpack and two-backpack protocols, single-pass and multiple-pass protocols, and increasing sample reach length. Based on generalized linear mixed models, we found that increasing the number of backpack units, number of passes, and sample reach length led to an increased number of species labeled as rare, with stronger evidence favoring this conclusion when rarity was defined by proportional abundance criteria compared with numerical criteria. We found the least difference in the assessment of stream fish communities between the one-backpack and two-backpack protocols, but there was a significant difference in assessments among one-, two-, and three-pass electrofishing. At the watershed level, increasing the number of electrofishing passes led to increased similarity among sites and sometimes greater species richness estimates derived from three commonly-used species richness estimators. Additional electrofishing passes also increased the likelihood of detecting rare endemic species. A trade-off between information collected and necessary sampling resources should be carefully considered when sampling for rare species or to characterize community composition.
Nonequilibrium grain-boundary segregation and ductile-brittle-ductile transition in Fe-Mn-Ni-Ti age-hardening alloy

Nonequilibrium segregation kinetics of alloying elements and a ductile-brittle-ductile transition behavior have been investigated in an Fe-8.4Mn-7.4Ni-l.7Ti alloy. The alloy experienced a ductilebrittle-ductile (DBD) transition during isothermal aging. In the brittle region, the alloy showed a decrease in intergranular fracture strength and a subsequent increase with aging time. This is due to the segregation of titanium to the grain boundaries and its desegregation into the matrix. The intergranular fracture strength was higher on the zero tensile elongation finish curve than on the start curve. This is because the grain-boundary segregation level of titanium is relatively lower on the finish curve. The lowest intergranular fracture strength increased with increasing aging temperature, which was attributed to a lower grain-boundary segregation level of titanium at higher temperature. Manganese caused an overall reduction in intergranular fracture strength and, as a result, the delayed occurrence of the zero tensile elongation (ZTE) finish curve in a temperature and log-time plot.
Nuclear bone imaging in metastatic cancer of the prostate.

A reproducible technique of bone scanning in prostatic cancer is described that helps ensure the production of successive studies of highly comparable technical quality. Through an analysis of survival data based on changes in distribution, anatomic extent, and intensity of bone scan abnormalities in patients with advanced prostatic cancer, it is demonstrated that alterations in the appearance of the bone scan correlate closely with disease activity and have great prognostic significance.
Experimental verification of the advantages of the transparent cathode in a short-pulse magnetron

Recently, considerable attention has been given to the development of different means of providing rapid start-of-oscillations in pulsed relativistic magnetrons. The innovative University of Michigan's (UM's) methods of priming: cathode priming, magnetic priming and RF priming have shown improvement in the start of oscillations. At the University of New Mexico (UNM) we have been able to show via particle-in-cell (PIC) computer simulations fast start, fast rate of build-up of oscillations and significant improvement in the output characteristics of a magnetron using the transparent cathode. The three-dimensional PIC code MAGIC was used for the simulations. Experiments were performed using UNM's SINUS-6 accelerator with an applied voltage of 260 kV in 17 ns.
Physical Activity Within Rural Families of Overweight Preschool Children: A Pilot

The purpose of this descriptive qualitative research was to explore physical activity patterns of families of overweight preschool children aged 3 to 5 years living in a predominantly rural agricultural state. This paper presents the second part of a dually focused study related to healthy eating and physical activity (PA) in this selected population. Methodology used was a focus group discussion with 10 parents of overweight preschool children aged 3 to 5 years. Transcripts were coded and analyzed for emergent themes using N ViVo qualitative analysis software. The findings revealed that all parents were not engaging in any healthy structured PA beyond their daily functioning actions and were not involved in organized sports; however, they had some knowledge of the significance of PA and its benefits for themselves and their children. Also, the parental participants‟ perceptions that the children were active (busy with their own play) and their weights were acceptable (as compared to other children) probably influenced their lack of recognition for the necessity of healthy structured PA. They did identify personal and environmental barriers to engaging in PA. The results provide significant implications for health professionals in planning/developing educational materials for PA interventions, enhancing motivation for PA of rural populations and working towards the reduction of barriers through policy and relevant resource acquisition. Continued research with this population could inform health care providers about more culturally appropriate ways to increase motivation to do and effective environments for physical activity within a rural population.
The stability of the monofixation syndrome.

Purpose To determine etiology, characteristics, and stability of the monofixation syndrome (MFS) in a chart review of 63 consecutive patients in a private practice of pediatric ophthalmology. Design Retrospective, consecutive chart review. Methods The charts of 63 consecutive patients with MFS, encountered from 2007-2012 followed for a minimum of 3 years were included. Best visual acuity, motor angle deviation at near, fusion, and stereoacuity as recorded on the most recent visit during the follow-up period were examined. Stability of the MFS was determined by comparing the dates of diagnosis with the last examination for those patients who remained stable. Decompensated patients were also studied for characteristics and results of secondary surgery. Results The etiology of the MFS was esotropia in 58 (92.1%), anisometropia in 2 (3.2%), and exotropia in 3 patients (4.8%). The majority of patients, 57 of 63 (92%), had stable MFS for a mean of 13.9 years. Six esotropic patients decompensated after a mean of 6 years; 5 of these patients were restored to MFS by secondary surgery and 1 spontaneously recovered. Five patients were found to have improved stereoacuity to 60 arc seconds or better by the end of the study. Conclusions The MFS is a relatively stable binocular status during the first 2 decades of follow-up. A small percentage of patients decompensated, requiring secondary surgery to restore the MFS binocular status. A similar small percentage of MFS patients developed a higher grade of stereoacuity when followed for a sufficient interval of time.
Development of a Model of Moral Distress in Military Nursing

The purpose of this article is to describe the development of a model of moral distress in military nursing. The model evolved through an analysis of the moral distress and military nursing literature, and the analysis of interview data obtained from US Army Nurse Corps officers (n = 13). Stories of moral distress (n = 10) given by the interview participants identified the process of the moral distress experience among military nurses and the dimensions of the military nursing moral distress phenomenon. Models of both the process of military nursing moral distress and the phenomenon itself are proposed. Recommendations are made for the use of the military nursing moral distress models in future research studies and in interventions to ameliorate the experience of moral distress in crisis military deployments.
IGF-I measurement across blood, interstitial fluid, and muscle biocompartments following explosive, high-power exercise

Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) resides across different biocompartments [blood, interstitial fluid (ISF), and muscle]. Whether circulating IGF-I responses to exercise reflect local events remains uncertain. We measured the IGF-I response to plyometric exercise across blood, ISF, and muscle biopsy from the vastus lateralis. Twenty volunteers (8 men, 12 women, 22 ± 1 yr) performed 10 sets of 10 plyometric jump repetitions at a 40% 1-repetition maximum. Blood, ISF, and muscle samples were taken pre- and postexercise. Circulating IGF-I increased postexercise: total IGF-I (preexercise = 546 ± 42, midexercise = 585 ± 43, postexercise = 597 ± 45, +30 = 557 ± 42, +60 = 536 ± 40, +120 = 567 ± 42 ng/ml; midexercise, postexercise, and +120 greater than preexercise, P < 0.05); Free IGF-I (preexercise = 0.83 ± 0.09, midexercise = 0.78 ± 0.10, postexercise = 0.79 ± 0.11, +30 = 0.93 ± 0.10, +60 = 0.88 ± 0.10, + 120 = 0.91 ± 0.11 ng/ml; +30 greater than all other preceding time points, P < 0.05). No exercise-induced changes were observed for ISF IGF-I (preexercise = 2.35 ± 0.29, postexercise = 2.46 ± 0.35 ng/ml). No changes were observed for skeletal muscle IGF-I protein, although IGF-I mRNA content increased ∼40% postexercise. The increase in circulating total and free IGF-I was not correlated with increases in ISF IGF-I or muscle IGF-I protein content. Our data indicate that exercise-induced increases in circulating IGF-I are not reflective of local IGF-I signaling.
Using dummy bridging faults to define a reduced set of target faults

The large numbers of bridging faults in a circuit resulted in several approaches to the selection of a subset of faults as targets for test generation. These approaches do not guarantee that all the bridging faults (or even that all the bridging faults that are likely to occur) will be detected. We investigate a different approach to the selection of target bridging faults. The approach is based on the introduction of dummy bridging faults, which are not physical faults but whose tests detect large numbers of physical faults. We apply this approach to four-way bridging faults. When no approximations are made, the proposed approach selects a subset of faults such that if they are detected, all the four-way bridging faults are guaranteed to be detected. We also investigate approximations and a test generation approach for the selected faults.
Classification of Land for Taxation

Classification of property for taxation needs to be extended to land, 95. — Land value exceeds capitalization of economic rent, 96.— How tax on market value of land promotes wasteful utilization, 98.— What is the remedy? The Single Tax Solution, the Socialist Solution, 101.—The income tax, 103. — The European cadastral method of taxing land, 104. — A modification of the European method proposed, 107. — Benefits illustrated from subdivision land, 109. — A classified land tax and city planning, 112. — Desirability of an increment tax, 115.
Personal Style and Hearing Aid Fitting

Why do I have to drag information out of some patients? Why is another patient so talkative? Why didn't this patient like the XYZ 2002 digital hearing aid when she had the same degree, type, and configuration of hearing impairment as the patient I successfully fit last month? Could the answer be as basic as a difference in personality?
Determination of optimal vitamin C requirements in humans

Although the recommended dietary allowance provides an estimate for vitamin C ingestion in humans, optimal vitamin C requirements are unknown. We define optimal vitamin C requirements operationally based on the following: dose-function relations, availability in the food supply, steady state concentrations in plasma and tissues achieved at each dose of vitamin C, urinary excretion, bioavailability, toxicity, and epidemiologic observations. Optimal vitamin C requirements can be estimated when information is available for at least some of these criteria.