cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analogs of Tetrahydrofolic Acid XXVII: Hydrophobic Bonding to Dihydrofolic Reductase by 2-Amino-4,6-disubstituted-5-alkylpyrimidines and 1-Alkyl-4,6-diamino-1,2-dihydro-s-triazines

Strong hydrophobic bonding to dihydrofolic reductase has been observed by alkyl groups attached to the 5-position of pyrimidines or the 1-position of 1,2-dihydro- s -triazines. Studies were made with alkyl substituted 2,6-diamino-4-pyrimidinols (series A ), 2-amino-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinols (series B ), 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidines (series C ), 2,4-diamino-6-methylpyrimidines (series D ), and 4,6-diamino-1,2-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl- s -triazines (series E ); 19 different alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl groups were investigated, but not in all series. Maximum hydrophobic bonding by an n -alkyl group was reached with n -butyl in all except series B ; the B series required an n -amyl group. In all series, a further increment in binding over n -butyl was observed in the isoamyl group; the latter gave as good or better binding than the phenylpyrimidines or s -triazines of the pyrimethamine type. The butyl is probably complexed in a skew conformation. It is proposed that the 5-phenyl group of a pyrimidine or 1-phenyl group of 1,2-dihydro- s -triazine may also bind to dihydrofolic reductase by hydrophobic bonding. These observations on hydrophobic bonding can account for most of the discrepancies in increments of binding observed with the pyrimidines and dihydro- s -triazines in earlier papers. The possible uses of hydrophobic bonding to dihydrofolic reductase for species specificity are discussed.
Adhesion molecules and implantation.

Endometrial receptivity towards embryo implantation is a complex process that involves the ovary, endometrium and embryo. The dialog between the ovary and the endometrium provides the hormonal stimulus for establishment of a successful pregnancy. The hormones estrogen and progesterone act in concert to stimulate the expression of key molecules necessary for embryos to attach and invade. It is thought that initial attachment of the embryo involves cell adhesion events. The best characterized cell adhesion molecule on the luminal surface of the endometrium is the αvβ3 integrin. Its ligand osteopontin (OPN) is co-localized with αvβ3 and may play a role in endometrial or embryo signaling or facilitate embryo attachment to the apical surface prior to invasion. Surprising new evidence suggests that these two proteins are differentially regulated. Acting directly on endometrial epithelium, progesterone stimulates OPN expression. Using a stromal-mediated paracrine mechanism, HB-EGF or other EGF molecules appear to stimulate epithelial αvβ3 expression. In this article, we review what is known about these two pathways.
Tread Pitch Arrangement Optimization Through the Use of a Genetic Algorithm

Abstract Urban communities throughout the United States and Europe are expressing a growing concern over the external noise emitted by automobiles and trucks. A major contribution to this noise can be tread whine generated by tires. This paper discusses how the tread pitch arrangement and its contribution to reducing tread whine can be optimized during the design phase. While there are numerous patented approaches to selecting pitch sizes and a pitch arrangement, traditional optimization algorithms are difficult to apply. This paper will show that a genetic algorithm is easily applied and very effective for pitch sequence optimization.
A comparison of reading and demographic-based estimates of premorbid intelligence in schizophrenia

Estimating premorbid intelligence in schizophrenia is difficult because the illness affects aspects of premorbid and postmorbid functioning. We evaluated two qualitatively different estimates of premorbid intelligence in a sample of schizophrenia patients and tested whether: (1) the two indices were related and produced similar IQ estimates, and (2) either index was related to a measure of cognitive deterioration. The Barona Index (BI, a demographically-based instrument) and the National Adult Reading Test (NART, a reading test of irregularly-spelled words) were utilized. Subjects (n = 40) were adult neuroleptic-medicated inpatients with a DSM-III-R diagnosis of chronic schizophrenia (n = 35) or schizoaffective disorder (n = 5). Paired t-tests revealed statistically equivalent BI and NART estimates for Full Scale and Verbal IQs, but significantly higher NART Performance IQs (t[35] = -3.34, p < 0.01). Correlational analyses suggested the two indices were associated but shared modest variance. BI correlations revealed expected associations with education and social position. NART IQs were related to education and a measure of cognitive status. Regression analyses supported the association between NART estimates and cognitive deterioration. Results suggest BI may be a better estimate of premorbid intelligence in schizophrenia as it is less influenced by potential consequences of the disease.
THE APPLICATION OF PHYSICAL TRANSDUCERS TO INTRACAVITY PRESSURE MEASUREMENT, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO TONOMETRY.

Intracavity pressure measurement by endoradiosonde is highly developed, but is generally impossible if no orifice is accessible, e.g., for intraocular or infant intracranial pressures. Use of various physical transducers and different configurations for these are discussed. Tonometers using an insensitive flat annulus coplanar with a central transducer are described (Mackay-Marg tonometer). Several groups have accepted it as a standard of accuracy after several years of testing; in the past year, it has gone into routine use for detecting ocular hypertension, with detected glaucomas reaching the hundreds. Being fast and gentle, it can be used in mass screening without anesthesia. Sterilized tip covers prevent transfer of infection; it can be used in any position. It appears that average eye pressure may be slightly higher than thought.
SEQUENCE AND TISSUE DISTRIBUTION OF A CANDIDATE G-COUPLED RECEPTOR CLONED FROM RAT HYPOTHALAMUS

We have used RT-PCR with degenerate transmembrane primers to clone members of the G-coupled protein receptor family from rat hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei. We report here a novel clone, UHR-1, which encodes a candidate receptor that is most similar to the neuropeptide receptor family, including the tachykinins, somatostatins, and opioids. Message for this putative receptor is expressed in several brain regions, with the highest levels in pituitary, cerebellum, and hypothalamus. No message was detected in peripheral tissues. Southern blot analysis suggests that UHR-1 is likely a member of a multigene family. The natural ligand for this novel receptor is unknown, but based on sequence homology and structural features is likely to be a peptide.
Development and temporal evolution of erosion fronts in bioerodible controlled release devices

Abstract Cellular automata and discrete iterations are used to model and simulate the release of bioactive agents (drugs) from bioerodible pellets used as controlled release devices. The presented discrete simulation approach is a computationally efficient tool for designing delivery systems with optimal release properties, since it can accurately treat the transient erosion processes in multicomponent release systems of arbitrary geometry and with different dissolution rates for each component. Results from two-dimensional simulations are presented to show how the intrinsic dissolution rates, drug loadings, matrix porosities etc. affect the overall release rates and to establish the relationship between the ratio of dissolution rates and the fractal dimension of the erosion front.
Evaluation of image compression using plausible nonvisually weighted image fidelity measures

The current trend of using ROC style observer performance studies to evaluate image compression schemes is inefficient and has greatly limited our ability to apply image compression to radiographic images. Because of this, we are developing more efficient automated techniques for assessing the loss of image quality due to compression. The figure- of-merit (FOM) presented here is based on plausible hypotheses about what factors are important in observer performance and evaluates not only the magnitude of difference images but also their structure. This FOM should avoid the limitations of simpler measures such as mean-square-error as well as the limitations and complexity of measures based on psychovisual theory. We applied our FOM to portions of compressed mammograms that had been previously evaluated in a just-noticeable-difference study, and to CT images that had been degraded by compression at various compression ratios with the JPEG algorithm or through other processes. In general, we found that this FOM offers many advantages over other common FOMs and demonstrates the feasibility of developing efficient measures. Although no one-dimensional measure can be expected to be highly correlated to observer performance, for small levels of image degradation we expect this measure to be useful in placing limits on the loss of observer performance.
Passage of salivary amylase through the stomach in humans.

With an inhibitor assay technique rates of passage of salivary and pancreatic isoamylase through the jejunum were measured in six healthy volunteers after different liquid, intragastric meals. In all subjects and in 13/17 experiments, more than 2500 units of salivary amylase were passed over 200 postcibal minutes. Salivary amylase comprised 13.8±3.9% (X ±SEM) of the total amylase and appeared predominantly as single, distinct peak. The inhibitor method was validated by isoelectric focusing (r=0.988;P<0.001;N=7). The frequency of detection of salivary amylase in gastric or jejunal samples fell as gastric pH fell below 3.0.In vitro, amylase was inactivated in gastric juice as pH fell between 3.8 and 3.3. Salivary amylase accounted for 11% of total amylase output in a normal and 27% in an achlorhydric subject after a hamburger meal. We conclude that amylase should not be measured in postprandial studies of pancreatic secretion in humans without correction for salivary amylase.
Long-term discission rate after placing posterior chamber lenses with the convex surface posterior.

The incidence of secondary capsulotomy was studied in a group of 757 posterior chamber intraocular lenses placed with the convex surface posterior within the capsular bag. Minimum follow-up was 12 months and ranged up to 61 months, with a mean of 33 months. In the first year, only 2.9% of cases required discission, but this rose to 15.7% at five years. The need for capsulotomy with angled-haptic lenses was 7.9% at three years; it was 15.0% with uniplanar lenses (P = .04). This difference appeared to be due to better apposition of the optic to the posterior capsule in the angled lenses, creating a more effective barrier to epithelial pearl migration. Capsulotomy carries significant risks and lens designs that minimize the long-term need for capsulotomy should be sought. Convex posterior lenses with angled haptics have a low incidence of posterior capsule opacification.
Kinetics of algal transient phosphate uptake and the cell quota concept 1

Dissolved inorganic orthophosphate (P/sub 1/) uptake rates (v) were determined as a function of total cell phosphorus content (Q) in P/sub 1/ perturbed axenic batch cultures of Selenastrum capricornutum and Nostoc sp. The results showed an inverse relationship between v and Q for both organisms. These findings are used to relate the cell quota concept of nutrient limited, steady state microbial growth kinetics to nutrient uptake kinetics observed in perturbed batch cultures.
Three-particle structure of φ 4 interactions and the scaling limit

We show that the inverse propagator $\ensuremath{\Gamma}(x)$ and the proper self-energy part $\ensuremath{\Pi}(x)$ are positive for all $x\ensuremath{\ne}0$. These results combined with some postulates on the sign or the decay of the vertex functions, in particular, on the decay rate for $\ensuremath{\Gamma}(x)$, yield the absence of three-particle bound states and the existence of the scaling (Gell-Mann, Low, Wilson) limit for the ${\ensuremath{\varphi}}^{4}$ interaction.
Rapid Perfusion Abnormality Estimation in Acute Stroke With Temporal Correlation Analysis

Background and Purpose— Determination of the presence or absence of ischemic penumbra through diffusion-perfusion mismatch requires rapid delineation of both abnormalities. Although singular value decomposition–based perfusion parameter estimation has offered valuable insights into the underlying cerebral hemodynamics, the associated postprocessing procedures have limited its widespread use. We explored the utility of a simple technique to define perfusion abnormality in acute stroke patients. Methods— Twenty acute stroke patients were studied. The MR dynamic contrast approach was used to obtain cerebral blood flow, cerebral blood volume, and mean transit time (MTT). Temporal correlation was used to correlate 4 reference functions—an arterial input function (AIF), a normal tissue function, a lesion function, and a venous output function—with dynamic contrast MR images, and correlation coefficients (CCs) were calculated pixel by pixel. In addition, chronic-state T2-weighted images were coregistered onto th...
Spheroidal wave functions

Spheroidal wave functions occur in many scientific and engineering contexts, from atomic nuclei to the cosmos-scattering by nonspherical nuclei, wave functions of diatomic molecules, analysis of band-limited random noise, orthogonal frequency division multiplexing, and anisotropy of the cosmic microwave background radiation. Therefore, visualizing these functions and computing them reliably can be useful and interesting.
Two compact planetary nebulae of moderate excitation - NGC 6565 (3-4.5 deg) and NGC 6644 (8-7.2 deg)

Data obtained with an image-tube scanner at the 3-m Shane telescope are combined with IUE data to obtain plasma diagnostics and chemical compositions for two planetary nebulae of moderately high excitation. Theoretical nebular models were calculated using stellar fluxes given by Husfeld et al. (1984) for T(asterisk) = 85,000 K, log g = 4.72, and elemental abundances were obtained by fitting theoretical to observed line intensities and also by using the model to determine ionization correction factors to be applied to observed ionic concentrations. Although C appears to be about 1.5 times as abundant in NGC 6644 as in NGC 6565, N, O, Ne, S, Cl, and Ar are depleted by factors ranging from 2 to 6 in NGC 6644 as compared to NGC 6565. The high-velocity object, NGC 6644, was evidently made from a less metal-rich mixture than the sun.
Relationships between linear systems theory and covariance structure modeling

Abstract It is shown that an important subset of linear systems theory (LST) can be represented as a special case of covariace structure modeling (CSM). Overviews of both LST and CSM are presented, along with an explanation and illustration of their relationship. Possible modifications and extensions of LST are described based on the more general framework of CSM. An LST model where all inputs, state variables, and outputs are latent variables is proposed. The potential use of CSM methodology to carry out model fitting, parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing for certain LST models is discussed.
Shedding light on learning

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and optical imaging have both undergone impressive technological growth in recent years. A study in which mice learn to modulate neural activity merges these technologies to investigate the neural basis of BCI learning with unprecedented spatial detail.
Preventing arcing damage on radio frequency device wafer by controlling ESD resistivity level of water for saw and wash

The current electrostatic discharge (ESD) resistivity limit of water during the wafer saw and wash process is found to induce polyimide tribocharging. Accumulated static energy discharges on metal 6 of the Radio Frequency (RF) device, in the form of electrical arcs, cause dielectric passivation layer breakdown and Electrical Overstress (EOS). To solve this problem, an experiment is done to determine the most efficient ESD resistivity level of water for arcing damage prevention.
Making the world safe for baseball: reflections on internationalism in Cooperstown and the World Baseball Classic.

Baseball's international politics are here pursued by examining the 2006 inductions into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the new Baseball World Classic. Cooperstown's museum tried to ‘close the book' on past racial discrimination in Organized Baseball, and has also opened new questions by inducting foreign players who played mostly outside the US. But US fans still expect their Major Leagues to be the best leagues in all baseball. In other sports, international organizations control the world championship, but in baseball, US-based Organized Baseball has consolidated its control, making the world safe for itself, by owning the new WBC world championship, and using it as a virtual training camp for future major leaguers. Here as elsewhere, the separate-but-equal logic of the global system of nation-states does not actually generate equality in wealth or opportunity, and US leadership is oblivious to growing international disquiets.
Approximate importance sampling Monte Carlo for data assimilation

Abstract Importance sampling Monte Carlo offers powerful approaches to approximating Bayesian updating in sequential problems. Specific classes of such approaches are known as particle filters. These procedures rely on the simulation of samples or ensembles of the unknown quantities and the calculation of associated weights for the ensemble members. As time evolves and/or when applied in high-dimensional settings, such as those of interest in many data assimilation problems, these weights typically display undesirable features. The key difficulty involves a collapse toward approximate distributions concentrating virtually all of their probability on an implausibly few ensemble members. After reviewing ensembling, Monte Carlo, importance sampling and particle filters, we present some approximations intended to moderate the problem of collapsing weights. The motivations for these suggestions are combinations of (i) the idea that key dynamical behavior in many systems actually takes place on a low dimensional manifold, and (ii) notions of statistical dimension reduction. We illustrate our suggestions in a problem of inference for ocean surface winds and atmospheric pressure. Real observational data are used.
Multifunctional Nanotherapeutics for Cancer

Nanotechnology, as a field of applied science, focuses on the development, production, characterization and application of materials, and devices at the level of molecules and atoms with a typical size between 10 �9 nm and 10 �6 µm. Nanotherapeutics, a rapidly expanding area of medicine, uses nanotechnology products for highly specific medical interventions at the molecular scale for curing diseases or repairing damaged tissues. Although some nanotechnology products can be applied alone as therapeutic or imaging agents, they are being most often used as pharmaceutical nanocarriers for delivering drugs or imaging agents to the site of the action in desired quantities and releasing therapeutic loads with a specific time profile. Linear and branched polymers, dendrimers, quantum dots, nanoparticles, nanospheres, nanotubes, nanocrystals, nanogels, liposomes, micelles, as well as other types of nanocarriers are being employed in different fields of medicine for diagnostics, imaging, treatment, and prophylaxis of many pathological conditions (Fig. 1) In contrast to the earlier developed nanotherapeutics, which had a relatively simple two-component drug–carrier composition, modern nanocarriers often include other active ingredients that perform different specific functions for enhancing cellular uptake and efficiency of the main drug, preventing adverse side effects, providing drug release with a predetermined profile in the certain compartment of an organ, tissue, or cell, and preventing the development and/or suppression of the existent drug resistance, etc. The increase in complexity and performed functions of nanocarriers actually converts them into multifunctional nanotherapeutical products. This chapter is mainly focused on reviewing modern multifunctional approaches in nanotherapeutics designed for effective cancer treatment.
The ShcA protein is a molecular chaperone that assists in the secretion of the HopPsyA effector from the type III (Hrp) protein secretion system of Pseudomonas syringae

Pseudomonas syringae uses a type III protein secretion system encoded by the Hrp pathogenicity island (Pai) to translocate effector proteins into plant cells. One of these effector proteins is HopPsyA. A small open reading frame (ORF), named shcA, precedes the hopPsyA gene in the Hrp Pai of P. s. syringae 61. The predicted amino acid sequence of shcA shares general characteristics with chaperones used in type III protein secretion systems of animal pathogens. A functionally non-polar deletion of shcA in P. s. syringae 61 resulted in the loss of detectable HopPsyA in supernatant fractions, consistent with ShcA acting as a chaperone for HopPsyA. Cosmid pHIR11 carries a functional set of type III genes from P. s. syringae 61 and confers upon saprophytes the ability to secrete HopPsyA in culture and to elicit a HopPsyA-dependent hypersensitive response (HR) on tobacco. P. fluorescens carrying a pHIR11 derivative lacking shcA failed to secrete HopPsyA in culture, but maintained the ability to secrete another type III-secreted protein, HrpZ. This pHIR11 derivative was also greatly reduced in its ability to elicit an HR, indicating that the ability to translocate HopPsyA into plant cells was compromised. Using affinity chromatography, we showed that ShcA binds directly to HopPsyA and that the ShcA binding site must reside within the first 166 amino acids of HopPsyA. Thus, ShcA represents the first demonstrated chaperone used in a type III secretion system of a bacterial plant pathogen. We searched known P. syringae type III-related genes for neighbouring ORFs that shared the general characteristics of type III chaperones and identified five additional candidate type III chaperones. Therefore, it is likely that chaperones are as prevalent in bacterial plant pathogen type III systems as they are in their animal pathogenic counterparts.
Postcardiotomy Delirium: An Overview

Any one of a number of psychologic patterns may appear cardiotomy: (1) Some patients may be elated and confident after awakening from anesthesis and have no severe changes of affect or neurologic deficit. Denial seems to be for them an adequate defense against anxiety. (2) Others are disoriented and manifest neurologic disturbance immediately after awakening, without a lucid interval. The sensorium begins to clear five days after surgery. (3) Some patients go into delirium after being lucid for as long as a week and have hallucinations, illusions, and motor excitation for a few days-or over several weeks. Pathologic brain changes that are apparently anatomical correlates of neurologic deficits in delirium include anoxic lesions of the hippocampus, and infarcted foci. Physiologic factors that contribute to this reaction include: long periods of extracorporeal circulation, arterial hypotension during surgery, emboli, and low postoperative cardiac output. Age, and the type and severity of heart impairment are also factors. Psychologic factors to be taken into account include preexisting psychopathology and the failure of denial under the stress of physical symptoms or hospitalization. Delirium is fostered by sensory overload (or deprivation) in the recovery room and intensive care unit, and by staff tension. Modification of the intensive care unit environment, the administration of antipsychotic drugs, and metabolic correctives are recommended. Preoperative psychologic evaluation, with therapy as needed, preliminary familiarization with perioperative procedures, as well as collaboration between psychiatrist and surgeon, can do much to prevent post-cardiotomy delirium.
Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibition Mitigates Renovascular Remodeling in Salt-Sensitive Hypertension.

Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is the hallmark of hypertensive nephropathy. Uncontrolled proteolytic activity due to an imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (MMPs/ TIMPs) has been implicated in renovascular fibrosis. We hypothesized that inhibition of MMPs will reduce excess ECM deposition and modulate autophagy to attenuate hypertension. Dahl salt-sensitive (Dahl/SS) and Lewis rats were fed on high salt diet and treated without or with 1.2 mg/kg b.w. of GM6001 (MMP inhibitor) by intraperitoneal injection on alternate days for 4 weeks. Blood pressure (BP), renal cortical blood flow, vascular density, collagen, elastin, and MMPs/TIMPs were measured. GM6001 treatment significantly reduced mean BP in hypertensive Dahl/SS rats. Renal resistive index (RI) was increased in hypertensive Dahl/SS rats and Doppler flowmetry showed reduced cortical perfusion. Barium angiography demonstrated a reduction in terminal branches of renal vasculature. Inhibition of MMPs by GM6001 resulted in a significant improvement in all the parameters including renal function. In hypertensive Dahl/SS rats, protein levels of MMP-9, -2, and -13 were increased including the activity of MMP-9 and -2; TIMP-1 and -2 levels were increased whereas TIMP-3 levels were similar to Lewis controls. Administration of GM6001 reduced the activity of MMPs and increased the levels of TIMP-1, -2, and -3. MMP inhibition reduced type 1 collagen deposition and increased elastin in the intrarenal vessels indicating reduced fibrosis. Autophagy markers were decreased in hypertensive Dahl/SS rats and GM6001 treatment enhanced their levels. We conclude that MMP inhibition (GM6001) reduces adverse renovascular remodeling in hypertension by modulating ECM turnover and stimulating autophagy.
Graft Choice in the Management of Unstable Scaphoid Nonunion: A Systematic Review

Purpose To systematically compare outcomes between corticocancellous (CC) and cancellous-only (C-only) bone grafts for unstable scaphoid nonunions. Methods The English-language literature was searched using PubMed, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and the Cochrane Library with the following keywords: scaphoid, nonunion, malunion, unstable, collapse, humpback, dorsal intercalated segment instability, and deformity. Studies whose patient populations were characterized as possessing unstable scaphoid nonunion and/or collapse deformity or who met radiological definitions of such deformity were included. The union rate, interval to union, clinical assessments, strength, range of motion, correction of deformity, pain, and return to activity were analyzed. Results Twenty-three studies published between the beginning of 1987 and the end of 2013 met the eligibility criteria and contained 604 patients. The union rate was statistically equivalent for C-only (95%) and CC grafts (92%). However, the frequency-weighted mean interval to union was significantly shorter for C-only (11 wk) than for CC grafts (16 wk). CC grafts were associated with a significantly higher frequency-weighted mean Mayo wrist score (86) than C-only grafts (80), whereas C-only grafting provided significantly greater improvement of wrist flexion. Of the 3 measures of carpal geometry analyzed, CC grafts significantly improved the scapholunate and radiolunate angles more than C-only grafts. Conclusions Based on retrospective data from uncontrolled studies, C-only grafts provide the shortest interval to union for unstable scaphoid nonunions. CC grafts are associated with consistent deformity correction and superior Mayo wrist scores. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
Comparison of three sediment bioassay methods using detroit river sediments

The relative sensitivities and discrimination abilities of the Daphnia magna 48-h lethality assay of sediment pore water, the Photobacterium phosphoreum 15-min bioluminescence inhibition (Microtox®) assay of sediment pore water and the Chironomus tentans 10-d growth reduction assay of whole Detroit River sediments were investigated and predictive relationships developed. While all three assays demonstrated the toxicity of some sediments and all of them identified the most and least toxic sediments, the D. magna lethality assay was the least sensitive and discriminatory. The Microtox® assay was the most sensitive. Based on lethality, the C. tentans assay was less sensitive than D. magna, but growth inhibition was sensitive and the most discriminatory of the three assays. Chironomids were not observed in the sediments that caused a 30% decrease in growth of C. tentans relative to that on control sediment in which chironomids were observed. This sediment toxicity is also approximately that which kills D. magna. Some locations were deemed very toxic by one or two assays but not toxic by the others. The results of all of the assays were correlated, but none of the assays accurately predicted the results of the other two. It was concluded that the D. magna lethality test could be used to predict which sediments were so toxic that benthic insects would not be expected to be present. A principal components analysis demonstrated that the Microtox® assay gave sufficiently different information that it could be included in a battery of sediment toxicity tests designed to accurately classify the toxicities of sediments.
A review of electricity monitoring and feedback systems

This paper reviews various products available in market and under study, which monitor electricity consumption and provide feedback of the energy usage. Energy usage feedback systems are categorized into three groups: (i) socket monitoring systems, (ii) whole-house monitoring systems, and (iii) whole-house monitoring with breakdown to individual appliances. In the future directions section, the paper describes a proposed energy usage feedback system, which provides feedback about individual appliances. This system also considers the effect of human behavior on energy usage and suggests a possible solution.
The Legal Strategy of the Cruise Line Industry An Effective Use of Terms and Conditions to Manage Disputes

The three dominant North American cruise line companies have developed an effective legal strategy that provides a strategic, competitive advantage involving any dispute or litigation with a guest. All cruise guests are required to sign a contract containing similar terms and conditions that limit the loss for personal property, death, personal injury, emotional stress, and mental anguish; require written notice of claims; require filing of lawsuits within a specified shortened period of time; provide mandatory arbitration for certain claims; and waive class actions. The terms and conditions also take advantage of and conform to legislation affecting the maritime industry. At the heart of the strategy is the identical forum selection clause requiring all guests to initiate all suits in the U.S. District Court for Southern Florida. Because most litigation takes place in the same court, corporate counsel will have the benefit of being able to modify and update their terms and conditions to reflect the court...
Feasibility of real-time soil state and flux characterization for wastewater reuse using an embedded sensor network data assimilation approach

Wastewater reuse via irrigation provides the potential for significant increases in water use efficiency; however, excessive solutes from wastewater can pollute the groundwater beneath the irrigated lands. To avoid this adverse impact and provide a mechanism for informing optimal management practices, this study develops a monitoring and modeling system to assimilate embedded sensor network measurements into a hydrologic model to provide real-time soil state and flux estimates. The feasibility of soil characterization with a data assimilation algorithm is investigated through a series of observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) at a wastewater reuse testbed in Palmdale, California. Results show that state (i.e. soil moisture) estimation in isolation can lead to significant errors if flux estimates are a primary objective of the estimation framework and parameters are not well characterized. Overall, the OSSEs indicate that with sufficient measurement information, the system is capable of providing an accurate characterization of real-time soil state, model parameter, and flux estimates (even in the presence of biases) that could be useful in managing wastewater irrigation to avoid hazardous contamination of the underlying groundwater system.
Combined Activity of Clavulanic Acid and Ticarcillin Against Ticarcillin-Resistant, Gram-Negative Bacilli

Abstract Fifty-one clinical isolates of ticarcillin-resistant, gram-negative bacilli were tested for susceptibility to combinations of ticarcillin and clavulanic acid (BRL 14151), a potent beta-lactamase inhibitor. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were measured by a microdilution method, and minimal bactericidal concentrations for selected strains were measured by the broth dilution method. Ticarcillin MICs were ≥128 μg/ml for all and ≥512 μg/ml for 38 (75%) of the strains. Thirty-nine strains of Enterobacteriaceae tested included Escherichia coli (14), Klebsiella pneumoniae (16), Citrobacter sp. (3), Enterobacter sp. (3), Salmonella enteritidis (1), Serratia marcescens (1), and Proteus mirabilis (1). Ticarcillin MICs for 34 strains (88%) were lowered at least threefold by the addition of 1.0 μg of clavulanic acid per ml. Against 33 strains (85%), the MICs were 64 μg or less per ml in the presence of 5 μg of clavulanic acid per ml. In contrast, the MICs for seven of eight strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were unaffected by the addition of up to 10 μg of clavulanic acid per ml. Ticarcillin with 5 μg of clavulanic acid per ml was bactericidal against ticarcillin-resistant (MIC ≥ 2,048 μg/ml) E. coli, K. pneumoniae, Enterobacter, and P. mirabilis.
Alleviating poverty through microfinance: Village banking outcomes in Central America

Our research reports on Brigham Young University (BYU) field studies carried out in Central America to assess the impacts of village banking on indigenous families. We first introduce the growing movement of microfinance institutions (MFIs), organizations that provide small loans as start-up capital for the unemployed poor in Central America. We briefly describe the native nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that allocate their financial resources. Our methods are described and the survey instrument we created is analyzed, as well as the process of data collection. Finally, we report our findings and interpret their conclusions and implications, as well as suggest further studies on poverty alleviation.
Metabolism of 15NH3 in organotypic cerebellar explants and cultured astrocytes: Studies with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to study the metabolism of 15NH3 in organotypic cerebellar explants and cultured astrocyte monolayers. A steady-state level of 15NH3 was present by 1 min in both systems. Steady-state labeling in L-[amide-15N] glutamine, L-[15N]alanine, L-[15N]glutamate, and L-[15N]aspartate was attained by 1 min after 15NH3 addition in the organotypic cerebellar explants and by approximately 5 min in the cultured astrocytes. No measurable 15N labeling was noted in either glycine or serine in either system.
“Whitemen” are good to think with: How Orokaiva morality is reflected on Whitemen's Skin

The construction of whiteness by Orokaiva people in Papua New Guinea parallels in many ways the western construction of race that was imposed on them during a century of historical engagement with western powers. But its premises and moral concerns arise out of contemporary Orokaiva culture, and its moral ambiguities reflect the complex racial dynamic of the postcolonial situation. Orokaiva interpret the whiteness of whitemen's skin as a highly‐charged quality of “brightness” that is associated with the visibility and attractiveness of western commodity wealth. In the indigenous moral economy, white‐men's brightness and wealth signify an absence of the moral problems of jealousy, sorcery, theft, and violence that prevent Orokaiva individuals from developing and maintaining wealth at a level beyond that of their peers. Although there are also ways in which Orokaiva inferior‐ize whitemen, constructing them in opposition to indigenous virtues like generosity, in the quality of brightness Orokaiva construct w...
DIAGNOSIS OF CORE-SHELL MIXING USING ABSORPTION AND EMISSION SPECTRA OF A DOPED LAYER

Abstract We present theoretical analysis of a diagnostic method for detecting core-shell mixing in laser-fusion experiments, based on measuring the emission and absorption spectrum of a Ti-doped layer embedded within the target shell. The doped target layer is placed away from the shell-fuel interface so that the Ti remains relatively cool throughout the implosion. As a result, only absorption lines are observed, of 1 s −2 l transitions in ions with an unfilled L shell. However, for a sufficiently strong mixing, some Ti material migrates to the interface region and emits He- and H-like lines. A particular target experiment is simulated and the expected experimental signature calculated and analyzed.
Low‐frequency variability in the Gulf of Alaska from coarse and eddy‐permitting ocean models

[1] An eddy-permitting ocean model of the northeast Pacific is used to examine the ocean adjustment to changing wind forcing in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) at interannual-to-decadal timescales. It is found that the adjustment of the ocean model in the presence of mesoscale eddies is similar to that obtained with coarse-resolution models. Local Ekman pumping plays a key role in forcing pycnocline depth variability and, to a lesser degree, sea surface height (SSH) variability in the center of the Alaska gyre and in some areas of the eastern and northern GOA. Westward Rossby wave propagation is evident in the SSH field along some latitudes but is less noticeable in the pycnocline depth field. Differences between SSH and pycnocline depth are also found when considering their relationship with the local forcing and leading modes of climate variability in the northeast Pacific. In the central GOA pycnocline depth variations are more clearly related to changes in the local Ekman pumping than SSH. While SSH is marginally correlated with both Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO) indices, the pycnocline depth evolution is primarily related to NPGO variability. The intensity of the mesoscale eddy field increases with increasing circulation strength. The eddy field is generally more energetic after the 1976–1977 climate regime shift, when the gyre circulation intensified. In the western basin, where eddies primarily originate from intrinsic instabilities of the flow, variations in eddy kinetic energy are statistically significant correlated with the PDO index, indicating that eddy statistics may be inferred, to some degree, from the characteristics of the large-scale flow.
An Elephant’s Eye View of the Mouse: American Impressions of Canadian Governance

Canada and the United States share a border with one of the longest peaceful existencies in the world. Yet relationships between the two countries, while seemingly routine, often lack transparency and mutual comprehension. Of particular concern in Canada is a growing impression that public discourse in the United States considers Canadian governance to be flawed. This article employs the cases of terrorism and SARS to examine discourse regarding Canadian public administration in the United States press. The results of this analysis not only demonstrate elements of the American understanding of Canada but also speak to the role of peer nations in domestic policy discourse.
A Pseudorandom Multiplex System for Facsimile Transmission

In this paper, a novel facsimile transmission system is proposed in which several pseudorandomly scanned pictures are superimposed on one another and transmitted through a common channel. The noise in the received pictures due to cross-interference and channel disturbances is discussed, and some results from computer simulation are presented.
Does Antiretroviral Therapy Increase or Decrease the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Atherosclerosis is a complex inflammatory process that has been identified as an important problem in persons with HIV infection. Epidemiologic studies have linked certain antiretroviral medications (some nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors) with a higher risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Conversely, nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, entry inhibitors, and integrase inhibitors appear neutral. HIV infection is a chronic inflammatory process associated with endothelial dysfunction, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and a higher risk for CHD. Initiation of antiretroviral therapy in the short term appears to lower CHD risk, regardless of the specific agents used. However, adequately powered randomized trials of antiretroviral therapy with CHD as a primary end point are lacking. Thus, the evidence of whether antiretroviral therapy increases or decreases CHD risk in persons with HIV is perplexing. This article reviews the current controversy of the role of HIV and antiretroviral therapy in the development of cardiovascular disease.
The Pole of Power and the Pole of Indifference

In international relations, two opposing schools of thought have fought each other throughout the modern age. Ever since Machiavelli published the Prince, his “realistic” views have shocked “idealist” thinkers. As a battle of the mind, fought by and large outside the political arena, the dispute between the two schools was of great concern to philosophers and moralists; but not until Woodrow Wilson set out to bring Utopia down to earth did it become a political issue of the first magnitude. For the first time, the responsible head of one of the leading powers acted as though the world were on the verge of crossing the thresh-old from sordid “power politics” to a “new era” in which the admonitions of the idealist philosophers would suddenly become the political order of the day.
A New Eulechriops for the United States (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: CONODERINAE)

Eulechriops elongatus Champion, previously described from Morelos, Mexico, is reported from Arizona for the first time. The species is redescribed and distinguished from the eastern North American species E. minutus (LeConte), genitalia are figured, and new distribution data are given for both species. Members of the minutus group appear to be associated with oaks and additional undescribed species are known from Mexico. One or two specimens each of at least two and possibly three apparently undescribed Eulechriops species are known from Arizona and Texas.
Analysis of Li-Air Battery: Voltage Loss due to Insoluble Discharge Formation

In this paper, we present analysis of air cathode performance, taking into account both electrode passivation and transport resistance raised by insoluble products. Both effects are theoretically evaluated and compared. Validation is carried out against experimental data under low currents. The effects of electrode pore structure, such as porosity and tortuosity, on both the influence of insoluble precipitates and discharge capability are investigated.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Understanding Selective Hydrogenation of α,β-Unsaturated Ketones to Unsaturated Alcohols on the Au25(SR)18 Cluster

The Au25(SR)18 cluster can catalyze 100% selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated ketones to unsaturated alcohols. However, the mechanism remains a mystery. Here we unravel the underlying mechanism by using first-principles density functional theory calculations with benzalacetone as a substrate. We find that the Au25(SR)18 cluster cannot directly activate either H2 or benzalacetone separately. Instead, starting with coadsorption of H2 and benzalacetone on Au25(SR)18, H2 heterolytically cleaves to the substrate and to a surface Au atom of the cluster, followed by the facile transfer of H from the Au atom to the partially hydrogenated substrate. In this mechanism, C═O and C═C hydrogenations have barriers of 0.99 and 1.12 eV, respectively, in agreement with the experimentally observed selectivity toward unsaturated alcohol. In addition, we show that the ethanol solvent can further stabilize the partially hydrogenated intermediate of C═O hydrogenation via a hydrogen bond, leading to a smaller H2 cleavage e...
Guillain-Barré syndrome following immunisation with Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine.

The Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an immune-mediated disease often associated with viral or bacterial infections and with immunisation. IgM antibodies have been implicated as the main trigger event in GBS. So far, only four cases of GBS have been observed following immunisation with a conjugate vaccine against Haemophilus influenzae type b. We report another patient with GBS after this vaccination. We measured immunoglobulins against the H. influenzae type b polysaccharide (PRP) component of the vaccine. Surprisingly the anti-PRP IgM antibody level was markedly elevated (100 micrograms/ml) in the plasma of this patient. We speculate that an excessive anti-PRP IgM antibody response to the vaccine might be the cause of GBS.
Investigation on the Use of Multi-Element Airfoils for Improving Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Performance.

Vertical axis wind turbines are strongly affected by dynamic stall phenomena. The associated losses lead to a degradation of the performance of the device, with lower power coefficients compared to horizontal axis wind turbines. In an effort to limit the effects of stall, a two-element airfoil configuration is considered. Preliminary studies were done using the OpenFOAM and ANSYS Fluent® software. Results are presented for a baseline single element configuration, and a representative two-element configuration. A parametric study using design of experiment principles has been conducted where the airfoil shapes, the distance separating the two airfoils, and the orientation of the secondary element relative to the primary element are systematically varied. Flow field analyses are also presented to identify the physical mechanisms that influence the turbine performance.
Financial Development and Economic Structural Adjustment——Based on 14 Cities' Panel Data Study in Guangxi

An empirical study in 14 cities of Guangxi based on panel data shows that financial development level can promote economic structural adjustment,whose effect is of slightly difference in different internal zones inGuangxi.The investment effects on economic restructuring is relatively weak,even not significant in some areas,while consumption is obvious.Therefore,on one hand it's necessary to further promote the degreet of Guangxi financial level,on the other hand a reasonable guide is needed to lead financial resources distribution in investment and consumption.