cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measurement and Analysis of Heterogenous Vehicle Following Behavior on Urban Freeways: Time Headways and Standstill Distances

Microscopic traffic modelling is a popular tool in the transportation field, but using such models comes with significant data needs in order to properly calibrate them. Two important driver behavior parameters in these models are the preferred time headways and standstill distances. In this paper, an economical method for collecting headways and standstill distances is presented and applied to urban freeways in Iowa, USA. The following time headways and standstill distances were categorized into four combinations of car and truck pairs. It was found that headway values largely depend on the following vehicle type -- when a car was following the average headway was around 2 seconds, compared to around 3 seconds when a truck was following. Additionally, the car-car combination leaves much less space when stopped than when a pair involves trucks. In particular, the average standstill distance of a car following a car was found to be around 9 feet, while the average standstill distances are around 12 feet when a truck is involved. However, both headways and standstill distances follow fairly disperse distributions, due to the heterogeneity in driver behavior. Thus, microsimulation software should be improved to allow these parameters to follow distributions.
Crafting great user experiences

As a user of products and technology, one often experiences a wide range of emotions: happiness, frustration, gratitude, irritation, excitement, and apathy amongst others. Yet, as designers and deliverers of these tools and services, the human factor is often neglected with dire consequences. Deadlines and budgets become more important than analyzing the needs and behaviors of the user, unlinking the resource from its consumer. This degrades the perception of the offering and can be irreversible (and potentially fatal) to the reputation of software companies, IT departments, and hardware manufacturers. Despite the failings of many companies that have neglected the human element - companies that lacked empathy for their users - products continue to be delivered that are unintuitive, over designed, or inefficient. A great product or offering considers the user's experience (UX) when interacting with the service. The product is efficient and intuitive, while being transparent in presentation. UX is generally associated with software, but experiences are designed outside of computing as well. An often-polarizing example is customer service; customers remember great customer service experiences as much as they remember poor experiences. Technology often enhances the user experience, but the experience itself is not confined to interactions with specific tools. Training IT help desk staff on how to interact with customers may not be something traditionally thought of as a UX initiative, but this is one small part of the experience that is designed for individuals having issues with their devices. At Santa Clara Law, the Law Technology and Academic Computing (LTAC) group has improved efficiency, customer satisfaction, and saved time by considering UX principles early and often. Decisions once made with dangerous assumptions on the user's behalf are now considered with comprehensive data collected from a variety of different sources. Listening to what users are saying also helps LTAC adapt to the users' changing needs and continually enhance offerings
Synovial microenvironment-t cell interactions

Synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by infiltration of the synovium by T and B lymphocytes and monocytes, as well as by the proliferation of synovial lining cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. To study synovial cell-T cell interactions in vitro, we established cultures of fibroblast-like synovial cells, and used these cells in a synovial cell-T cell binding assay. Using T cells at various stages of differentiation and activation, we found that human thymocytes and mitogen-activated peripheral blood T cells bound to fibroblast-like synovial cells, whereas fresh peripheral blood T cells did not. Moreover, activated T cells from inflammatory synovial tissue or from synovial fluid also bound to fibroblast-like synovial cells cultured in vivo. Antibodies against certain epitopes of the T cell CD2 (35.1) and synovial cell lymphocyte function-associated antigen-3 (LFA-3) (TS2/9) molecules inhibited synovial cell-thymocyte binding. However, these same anti-CD2 and anti-LFA-3 antibodies only partially inhibited synovial cell binding to activated normal peripheral blood T cells. Moreover, T cells from inflammatory synovium from rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis patients also bound to synovial cells in vitro. These findings demonstrate that fibroblast-like synovial cells are capable of binding to human T cells in vitro, and suggest that during the course of inflammatory synovitis, synovial fibroblast-T cell interactions may occur in vivo.
Changes in consumption of fresh potatoes by northeast consumers as they relate to purchase, use, and socio-economic characteristics

The increasing popularity of processed potato products over the past twenty years has been accompanied by a steep decline in per capita fresh potato consumption. For those firms involved in the production, marketing, and retailing of fresh potatoes, continuation of these trends could pose great economic difficulties in the future. An understanding of factors that have influenced fresh potato consumption in the past is essential if greater usage is to be encouraged in the future. Changes in past usage with regard to purchasing patterns, problems, and socio-economic characteristics were examined with the purpose of determining the relevant relationships. The predominate factors found determining fresh potato consumption were family composition, age, and per-capita income. Families which increased consumption were generally younger, larger, and had less per capita income than families which decreased consumption.
Transient analysis of three-phase power systems, part II

Abstract The difficulties encountered with symmetrical components, as discussed in Part I, B, are eliminated when Clarke components are used. It is possible to investigate transient phenomena in three-phase systems by studying single-phase networks with the transient analyzer.The basic relationships between the three-phase problem and its equivalent representation in Clarke components are established in the first section (C) of this paper. The last section (D) of this study contains the component-network connections and the switching arrangements which are representative of the more frequent types of disturbances in three-phase systems.
New methods for the determination of elastase

Abstract Highly sensitive fluorimetric and colorimetric methods for estimation of pancreatic elastase have been developed. Two covalently labeled substrates, Fluorescein-elastin and Remazolbrilliant Blue-elastin, were prepared for this purpose. Pancreatic elastase has been assayed selectively in the presence of trypsin and chymotrypsin. The potentiating effect of these enzymes on the activity of elastase is described. The influence of this synergism on elastase determinations and its significance in acute pancreatic disease is discussed.
Replacement of the respiratory syncytial virus nonstructural proteins NS1 and NS2 by the V protein of parainfluenza virus 5.

Paramyxoviruses have been shown to produce proteins that inhibit interferon production and signaling. For human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the nonstructural NS1 and NS2 proteins have been shown to have interferon antagonist activity through an unknown mechanism. To understand further the functions of NS1 and NS2, we generated recombinant RSV in which both NS1 and NS2 were replaced by the PIV5 V protein, which has well-characterized IFN antagonist activities (ΔNS1/2-V). Expression of V was able to partially inhibit IFN responses in ΔNS1/2-V-infected cells. In addition, the replication kinetics of ΔNS1/2-V were intermediate between ΔNS1/2 and wild-type (rA2) in A549 cells. However, expression of V did not affect the ability of ΔNS1/2-V to activate IRF3 nuclear translocation and IFNβ transcription. These data indicate that V was able to replace some of the IFN inhibitory functions of the RSV NS1 and NS2 proteins, but also that NS1 and NS2 have functions in viral replication beyond IFN antagonism.
Sexual Recovery After Cancer

Treatment for cancer is improving, and an increasing number of men and women are surviving its diagnosis. Despite improvements in survival, residual side effects of cancer and treatment offer survivors challenges related to quality of life. Among those most commonly mentioned in this population are concerns related to sexual function. Cancer and treatments can cause numerous symptoms related to sexual dysfunction including loss of libido and desire, difficulty with orgasm, physical challenges in engagement in sexual acts, issues related to intimacy, and more global issues related to mood symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, and body image dissatisfaction. While pharmacologic agents have shown improvements in sexual functioning for men, their success for women has been more limited. Additionally, while patients with specific types of cancer have been the subjects of research on sexual dysfunction (e.g., prostate and testicular caners in men and breast and gynecologic cancers in women), patients across various cancer diagnoses experience sexual dysfunction. This paper will review the most current interventions and theoretical models for treatment of sexual dysfunction and offer a comprehensive plan for future intervention development and dissemination to improve sexual recovery after cancer.
Comment on “a chemical process producing a continuous laser amplifier in the visible region”

Abstract This comment suggests that the gain reported by Cobb, Woodward and Gole (Chem. Phys. Letters 143 (1988) 205), is unlikely to be due to Na 2 * produced by chemical reaction.
The characterizations of the quantum Witt algebra at roots of unity

Abstract Two theorems concerning the characterizations of the quantum Witt algebra at roots of unity are proved.
Immunological Comparisons of Chymotrypsin Inhibitor I among Several Genera of the Solanaceae

Microcomplement fixation was employed to compare the immunological differences that occur between purified inhibitor I from potato tubers, the four purified protomers that comprise it, and inhibitor I from tuber and leaf extracts. Total inhibitors of chymotrypsin and trypsin in leaves of seven genera of the Solanaceae were identified by enzymatic assay. In leaves of three genera, Solanum, Lycopersicum, and Datura, chymotrypsin inhibitor I was identified immunologically. In petals of all seven genera inhibitor I was also identified immunologically. With the microcomplement fixation technique inhibitor I from leaf or petal extracts of eight Solanaceae genera were compared. An immunological relationship of inhibitor I among seven of these genera was established.
Single particle quantum dot imaging achieves ultrasensitive detection capabilities for Western immunoblot analysis.

Substantially improved detection methods are needed to detect fractionated protein samples present at trace concentrations in complex, heterogeneous tissue and biofluid samples. Here we describe a modification of traditional Western immunoblotting using a technique to count quantum-dot-tagged proteins on optically transparent PVDF membranes. Counts of quantum-dot-tagged proteins on immunoblots achieved optimal detection sensitivity of 0.2 pg and a sample size of 100 cells. This translates to a 103-fold improvement in detection sensitivity and a 102-fold reduction in required cell sample, compared to traditional Westerns processed using the same membrane immunoblots. Quantum dot fluorescent blinking analysis showed that detection of single QD-tagged proteins is possible and that detected points of fluorescence consist of one or a few (<9) QDs. The application of single nanoparticle detection capabilities to Western blotting technologies may provide a new solution to a broad range of applications currently ...
What does dance do, and who says so? Some thoughts on blind access to dance performance

This article discusses the special issues related to making dance performance accessible to people who are blind and visually impaired. I highlight the limits of audio description for this art form and describe choreographer Victoria Marks’ response to the challenge to build access into an original composition.
Numerical dispersion of a vector finite element method on skewed hexahedral grids

The numerical dispersion relation is an important measure of the discretization error inherent in grid-based numerical methods for solving Maxwell's equations. In this paper we calculate the numerical dispersion of a vector finite element method for the case of a distorted three-dimensional hexahedral grid. The main result is that the numerical dispersion relation remains second-order accurate as the grid is distorted, although the dispersion becomes quite anisotropic.
Iteration-domain closed-loop frequency response shaping for discrete-repetitive processes

Building from a recently-presented internal model principle for unit-memory discrete repetitive processes, this paper considers iteration-domain control algorithms to ensure tracking of iteration-varying reference signals with support over a range of iteration-domain frequencies. By lifting the time-domain signals on each pass and applying an iteration-domain complex frequency operator, the discrete repetitive process is transformed into a first-order (in the iteration frequency domain) multivariable system. It is shown that what can be considered “lead-lag” type compensation can be used to shape the maximum singular values of the closed-loop system transfer function, making it possible to track iteration-varying inputs that have prescribed iteration-domain frequency content.
Thermal alteration experiments on organic matter in recent marine sediment—II. Isoprenoids☆

Abstract Several isoprenoid compounds were isolated from a heat-treated marine sediment in the southern California continental shelf (from Tanner Basin) which were not present in the original sediment. Among the compounds identified were: phytol, dihydrophytol, C18-isoprenoid ketone, phytanic and pristanic acids, C19- and C20-monoolefins, and the alkanes 2,6,10-trimethylpentadecane, pristane and phytane. The significance and possible routes leading to these compounds is discussed.
Aflatoxin Formation on Whole and Ground Cumin and Anise Seeds

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential productivity and growth ofAspergillus parasiticus (NRRL 2999) and the resulting toxin production on natural and autoclaved (cooked) cumin and anise spice seed substrates. Both whole and ground seeds were used. Mycelia and sporulation were also noted in this 17-day experiment. Cumin and anise seeds are capable of supporting mycelial growth, sporulation and toxin production when the seeds are moist and maintained at room temperature. Toxin yields were higher on ground sterile seed substrates. Of the commercial samples tested, neither the resulting cultures of natural flora nor dry whole seeds were found to contain aflatoxin or aflatoxin-like producing organisms. The anise substrates were more conducive to mycelial growth, sporulation and aflatoxin production than the cumin. Toxin levels in the various anise substrates ranged from 0.83 to 6.5μg/g total for the 4 aflatoxins, B1, B2, G1 and G2. Cumin seed substrates usually showed only B, and G, at total levels ranging from 0.23 to 0.63μg/g- Both spice seeds had mycelial growth and sporulation to occur at some time during the experimental period. Both substrates could be considered as low-level-producer substrates for aflatoxins. Anise seeds should be monitored occasionally for aflatoxin contamination when the commodities are purchased and used in large quantities.
The gendered division of space and access in working class areas of Lahore

Abstract Lahore has undergone a profound transformation in the century since Rudyard Kipling popularized it to the West. During the British Raj, most inhabitants lived within the old Walled City, a quintessential Muslim working class enclave which formed the foundation of Lahore's cultural ethos. Here, too, a gendered division of space was constructed which, while limiting women's physical mobility, allowed them meaningful personal interactions and the evolution of fictive kinship relationships between neighbors. In the last decade, developers have virtually swallowed up the Walled City, demolishing ancient neighborhoods and old havelis and bringing about an unprecedented plethora of new working class communities in physically distant locales. Waves of long‐term residents and migrants from rural areas have been settling in these areas, ultimately causing the very notion of a cultural ‘center’ in Lahore to break down. This paper seeks to understand the gendered division of space in the Walled City and look...
Time-Dependent CO2 Sorption Hysteresis in a One-Dimensional Microporous Octahedral Molecular Sieve

The development of sorbents for next-generation CO2 mitigation technologies will require better understanding of CO2/sorbent interactions. Among the sorbents under consideration are shape-selective microporous molecular sieves with hierarchical pore morphologies of reduced dimensionality. We have characterized the non-equilibrium CO2 sorption of OMS-2, a well-known one-dimensional microporous octahedral molecular sieve with manganese oxide framework. Remarkably, we find that the degree of CO2 sorption hysteresis increases when the gas/sorbent system is allowed to equilibrate for longer times at each pressure step. Density functional theory calculations indicate a “gate-keeping” role of the cation in the tunnel, only allowing CO2 molecules to enter fully into the tunnel via a highly unstable transient state when CO2 loadings exceed 0.75 mmol/g. The energy barrier associated with the gate-keeping effect suggests an adsorption mechanism in which kinetic trapping of CO2 is responsible for the observed hystere...
Do Housing Choice Voucher holders live near good schools

Abstract The Housing Choice Voucher program was created, in part, to help low income households reach a broader range of neighborhoods and schools. Rather than concentrating low income households in designated developments, vouchers allow families to choose their housing units and neighborhoods. In this project we explore whether low income households use the flexibility provided by vouchers to reach neighborhoods with high performing schools. Unlike previous experimental work, which has focused on a small sample of voucher holders constrained to live in low-poverty neighborhoods, we look at the voucher population as a whole and explore the broad range of neighborhoods in which they live. Relying on internal data from HUD on the location of assisted households, we link each voucher holder in the country to the closest elementary school within their school district. We compare the characteristics of the schools that voucher holders are likely to attend to the characteristics of those accessible to other households receiving place based housing subsidies, other similar unsubsidized households and fair market rent units within the same state and metropolitan area. These comparisons provide us with a portrait of the schools that children might have attended absent HUD assistance. In comparison to other poor households in the same metropolitan areas, we find that the schools near voucher holders have lower performing students than the schools near other poor households without a housing subsidy. We probe this surprising finding by exploring whether differences between the demographic characteristics of voucher holders and other poor households explain the differences in the characteristics of nearby schools, and whether school characteristics vary with length of time in the voucher program. We also examine variation across metropolitan areas in the relative quality of schools near to voucher holders and whether this variation is explained by economic, socio-demographic or policy differences across cities.
Nanowire electronic and optoelectronic devices

Electronic and optoelectronic devices impact many areas of society, from simple household appliances and multimedia systems to communications, computing, and medical instruments. Given the demand for ever more compact and powerful systems, there is growing interest in the development of nanoscale devices that could enable new functions and/or greatly enhanced performance. Semiconductor nanowires are emerging as a powerful class of materials that, through controlled growth and organization, are opening up substantial opportunities for novel nanoscale photonic and electronic devices. We review the broad array of nanowire building blocks available to researchers and discuss a range of electronic and optoelectronic nanodevices, as well as integrated device arrays, that could enable diverse and exciting applications in the future.
The effect of malathion on the temperature selection response of the common shiner,Notropis cornutus (Mitchill)

Warm-(17°C) and cold-acclimated (8°C) young-of-the-year, 1-year-old, and 2-year-old common shiners,Notropis cornutus (Mitchill) were exposed for 24 hr to sublethal doses (1.0, 0.25, and 0.05μg/L) of malathion to determine the effect of environmental concentrations of this compound on temperature selection. All three factors studied (acclimation temperature, age, and concentration) were found to affect the temperature selection response of malathion-treated fish. Malathion produced dose-dependent decreases in selected temperature (1.9° to 4.3°C below controls) in 17°C-acclimated fish but not in 8°C-acclimated fish. Two-year-olds treated with 1.0μg/L displayed the greatest lowering of selected temperature, followed by two-year-olds treated with 0.25μg/L. One-year-olds treated with 1.0μg/L showed a slight lowering, while no downward shifts in selected temperature were found for young-of-the-year. Exposure to 0.05μg/L had no effect on any age group.
Queueing network software for systems modelling

Several requirements are placed on queueing models of computer systems. These include credibility, accuracy, timeliness and cost. Modelling software can have critical impact on all of these requirements. We survey the characteristics of major pieces of queueing software. Based on this survey we synthesize a set of design objectives for queueing software. Finally, we discuss our own queueing network software, the Research Queueing Package (RESQ), in light of these objectives.
Presystemic elimination of manganese in rats

Abstract To determine if manganese (Mn) undergoes presystemic elimination, male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered 54MnCl2 in doses of 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg of Mn/kg into either their ileocolic (portal) or femoral (systemic) vein. Blood and bile samples were obtained for up to 90 min after administration. The area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) was determined for each route of administration. A ratio of 0.65 to 0.7 for the portal AUC relative to the systemic AUC indicates that systemic availability of Mn following portal administration is approximately 30 to 35% less than that after systemic administration of low doses of Mn. Concentration of Mn in liver was greater after portal administration of 0.1 mg Mn/kg than after systemic. Biliary excretion of Mn was also enhanced by portal administration relative to systemic, although the transfer from liver to bile seemed less affected by the route of administration than the transfer from blood to liver. Infusion of Mn by either route demonstrated that more Mn was required to produce death when given portally than when given systemically. In summary, Mn undergoes significant presystemic elimination. This effect appears to be dose dependent and may serve a protective function against acute Mn toxicity.
Motor and sensory branching of the recurrent laryngeal nerve in thyroid surgery

Introduction Recognition of extralaryngeal bifurcation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is crucial, because inadvertent intraoperative division may lead to significant morbidity. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of extralaryngeal bifurcation of the RLN and the distance that the initial bifurcation occurs from the cricothyroid insertion site of the RLN. We also sought to demonstrate the location of the RLN branches containing a predominance of motor fibers. Methods This prospective study of 220 patients with data on 310 RLNs collected the type of operation, incidence of bifurcation, distance from the cricothyroid insertion point to the point of initial bifurcation, and location of the motor fibers by assessing a stimulus response on the Medtronic NIMS as they relate to the laryngeal muscles. Results A total of 310 RLNs in 220 patients were studied. There were 133 RLNs (42.9%) that bifurcated before entering the larynx. These bifurcations occurred 51.1% on the right, 48.9% on the left, and 33.3% bilaterally. The median branching distance from the cricothyroid membrane on the right was 6.33 mm, and on the left was 6.37 mm. In all bifurcated RLNs, the motor fibers were located exclusively in the anterior branches. Conclusion Extralaryngeal bifurcation was found in 42.9% of the RLNs in this case series. The motor fibers are located in the anterior branches. Great caution is therefore required after the presumed identification of the RLN to ensure there is no unidentified anterior branch.
Cooperative hydrogen- and πH-bonded interactions involving water and the ethylenic double bond

πH-bonded complexes of water and the water dimer with ethene, propene, trans-2-butene, and allyl alcohol were examined in structures calculated ab initio at MP2/6-311++G(2d,2p). Cooperative enhancement of πH and aH bonds is observed in the presence of hydroxy groups either from the second water or the alcohol. These interactions are analyzed in terms of structural changes, binding energies, normal-mode frequency shifts and intensity increases, and donor-acceptor charge transfers among local (natural bond) orbitals that nonadditively polarize participating bonds. The field effect of electron-releasing methyl groups attached to the double bond is also shown to strengthen the πH bond.
Stages of condom use in a high HIV-risk sample

Abstract The goals were to (1) clarify high risk individuals into one of five stages of readiness for consistent condom use based on the Transtheoredcal Model of behavior change (e.g., Prochaska, Norcross and DiClemente, 1994); (2) investigate whether frequency of condom use was different for vaginal vs. anal sex, and for steady vs. other partners; and (3) explore whether condom use was related to several demographic variables. Street interviews were conducted in six major geographic areas across the United States on a diverse sample of 345 individuals engaging in high HIV-risk behaviors. Percentages of individuals found in each of five stages of condom use were: 36% Precontemplators, 15% Contemplators, 7% in Preparation, 7% in Action, and 35% in Maintenance. Individuals used condoms more with other, casual partners than with a steady partner, and slightly more when engaging in anal sex rather than vaginal sex. Condoms were also used more by: men, Caucasians, non-heterosexuals, and those who were not in a...
Adenovirus-encoded hammerhead ribozyme to Bcl-2 inhibits neointimal hyperplasia and induces vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis.

Objective: The balance between apoptosis and cell proliferation is vital for cellular homeostasis, yet little is known about the mechanisms that coordinate these two cell fates, particularly in the vessel wall. It is well established that the members of Bcl-2-gene family are regulators of apoptosis, but their role in cellular proliferation is less clear. Methods: We analyzed the effects of disrupting Bcl-2 expression in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) by adenoviral-mediated delivery of a hammerhead ribozyme against bcl-2 mRNA (Ad-Rbz-Bcl-2). Results: Forced ablation of Bcl-2 in balloon-injured rat carotid arteries reduced cell number and inhibited neointimal hyperplasia. In vitro, VSMCs transduced with the Ad-Rbz-Bcl-2 underwent apoptosis as indicated by a reduction in cell number and DNA fragmentation. Ad-Rbz-Bcl-2-transduced cells also exhibited aberrations in both G1- and S-phases of the cell cycle. However, forced perturbations in cell cycle activity by serum-stimulation or treatment with chemical inhibitors did not affect Ad-Rbz-Bcl-2-induced cell death, indicating that these cell cycle changes are not essential for apoptosis. Conclusion: These data show that physiological levels of Bcl-2 are essential for VSMC viability and that ablation of Bcl-2 alters cell cycle activity through the execution of the apoptotic process.
Effect of Curing Methods on Early-Age and Drying Shrinkage of High-Performance Concrete

Many engineers and agencies have observed that the field implementation of high-performance concrete (HPC) is highly dependent on curing and placing conditions. The effect of curing conditions on the early-age properties and long-term durability of HPC is not fully understood. There is a need to expand the knowledge of early-age properties and of the effect of pozzolanic material (like silica fume and fly ash) on drying shrinkage. Results are presented of a study performed to identify the effect of various curing methods on the early-age (autogenous) as well as drying shrinkage of normal and lightweight HPC. The study included a comparison of available analytical models for predicting early-age and drying shrinkage with results from tests performed on different mixes. HPC mixes were developed and evaluated as part of an overall study for the New Jersey Department of Transportation to develop and implement mix designs and technical specifications for HPC transportation structures, such as pavements and bri...
Characterization of Adhesive-Bonded Sheet Metal Joints

The bonding strength of metal-metal single-lap joints with different adhesives applied on steels and aluminum alloys were studied. The bonding strength is found to be related to the type of adhesives and the backing metal, the surface roughness, the surface scratch orientations, the adhesive layer thickness, and the loading conditions (static vs. cyclic and loading rate). SEM observation of fractured surfaces reveals some common feature of bonding strength enhancement, fracture paths and the mechanisms of fracture. The direction of the adhesive joint design is suggested.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
DEHYDRATION AND STORAGE STABILITY OF PAPAYA LEATHER

The effects of drying temperature (74°, 84° and 94°C), storage time (1, 2 and 3 months), storage temperature (18°, 24° and 38°C), and sulfur dioxide on the quality of papaya leather were investigated. Drying rate was decreased when high SO2, levels were used. The color of the leather depended on drying and storage temperature and the presence of SO2, which protected against darkening at high drying and high storage temperatures. However, residual SO2, levels declined at high storage temperature, thus decreasing protection. Sensory data for color, flavor and off-flavor correlated significantly with the alcohol-soluble color index.
Pimozide Augmentation of Clozapine Inpatients with Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder Unresponsive to Clozapine Monotherapy.

Despite its superior efficacy, clozapine is helpful in only a subset of patients with schizophrenia unresponsive to other antipsychotics. This lack of complete success has prompted the frequent use of various clozapine combination strategies despite a paucity of evidence from randomized controlled trials supporting their efficacy. Pimozide, a diphenylbutylpiperidine, possesses pharmacological and clinical properties distinct from other typical antipsychotics. An open-label trial of pimozide adjunctive treatment to clozapine provided promising pilot data in support of a larger controlled trial. Therefore, we conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-designed 12-week trial of pimozide adjunctive treatment added to ongoing optimal clozapine treatment in 53 patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder partially or completely unresponsive to clozapine monotherapy. An average dose of 6.48 mg/day of pimozide was found to be no better than placebo in combination with clozapine at reducing Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale total, positive, negative, and general psychopathology scores. There is no suggestion from this rigorously conducted trial to suggest that pimozide is an effective augmenting agent if an optimal clozapine trial is ineffective. However, given the lack of evidence to guide clinicians and patients when clozapine does not work well, more controlled trials of innovative strategies are warranted.
Different sequences show similar quaternary interaction stabilities in prohead viral RNA self-assembly

Prohead RNA (pRNA) is an essential component of the self-assembling φ29 bacteriophage DNA packaging motor. Different related species of bacteriophage share only 12% similarity in pRNA sequences. The secondary structure for pRNA is conserved, however. In this study, we present evidence for self-assembly in different pRNA sequences and new measurements of the energetics for the quaternary interactions in pRNA dimers and trimers. The energetics for self-assembly in different pRNA sequences are similar despite very different sequences in the loop-loop interactions. The architecture surrounding the interlocking loops contributes to the stability of the pRNA quaternary interactions, and sequence variation outside the interlocking loops may counterbalance the changes in the loop sequences. Thus, the evolutionary divergence of pRNA sequences maintains not only conservation of function and secondary structure but also stabilities of quaternary interactions. The self-assembly of pRNA can be fine-tuned with variations in magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, temperature, and concentration. The ability to control pRNA self-assembly holds promise for the development of nanoparticle therapeutic applications for this biological molecule. The pRNA system is well suited for future studies to further understand the energetics of RNA tertiary and quaternary interactions, which can provide insight into larger biological assemblies such as viruses and biomolecular motors.
Time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence of lipids involved in development of atherosclerotic lesion lipid-rich core

The goal of this study is to define the spectro-temporal fluorescence emission of the main types of lipoid that accumulate in atherosclerotic lesions cholesterol esters: cholesteryl linoleate (CL) and cholesteryl oleate (CO). CO is commonly found in fatty-streaks whereas CL and FC predominate in advanced lesions and their necrotic core. Fluorescence emission of the purified components was induced with Nitrogen laser pulses and detected with a MCP-PMT connected to a digital oscilloscope. Using a Laguerre expansion of kernels algorithm the intrinsic fluorescence pulses were deconvolved from the measured transient pulses. A double exponential function depicted the fluorescence decay characteristics.
A model for the ice-vapor interface at equilibrium

We use a mean-field lattice-gas model to describe the equilibrium ice/vapor interface. The numerical values of the parameters in the model are taken from laboratory experiment and molecular dynamics calculations. The model predicts the existence at equilibrium of a layer of admolecules at the ice surface; it is only a few molecules thick because of the very strong water-water interactions. Sharp transitions in layer thickness occur at well-defined temperatures on each crystal face.
Design, development, and testing of a mini solid state adaptive rotor

The design principles, analytical models, construction methods and test results for a new type of solid state adaptive rotor (SSAR) are presented. A pair of directionally attached piezoelectric (DAP) torque-plates were fabricated and attached to the root of a 23.5' diameter helicopter rotor assembly. The DAP torque-plate tips were joined to a pair of graphite-epoxy servopaddles which were moved in pitch by the action of the torque-plates. The torque-plates were constructed from a single aluminum substrate and PZT-5H DAP elements mounted symmetrically at 45 degrees. Electrical signals were carried to the DAP torque-plates via a shielded brush and rotating contact assembly. A series of non-rotating static tests were conducted on the rotor, demonstrating servopaddle pitch deflections up to plus or minus 5.8 degrees and good correlation with classical laminated plate theory. Non rotating dynamic testing showed a system natural frequency in excess of 2.5/rev and good correlation with inertial models. Because the servopaddles were aeroelastically tailored to balance out propeller moments, deflection degradation with increasing rotor speed was barely noticeable up to plus or minus 1 degree pitch levels. However, as rotor speed increased, total servopaddle deflections in the rotating frame at 1600 rpm (full speed) were degraded, but still operated up to plus or minus 2.7 degrees in pitch. To conclude the study, the rotor was attached to a converted Kyosho Hyperfly electric helicopter. Flight tests demonstrated fundamental controllability. A system-level comparison showed that the SSAR Hyperfly experienced a 40% drop in flight control system weight, an 8% cut in total gross weight, a 26% decrease in parasite drag and a part count reduction from 94 components to 5.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
MDCT imaging following nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma: Protocol optimization and patterns of tumor recurrence

The purpose of this pictorial essay is to review the common and uncommon sites of renal cell carcinoma recurrence throughout the body by examining their appearances on computerized tomography (CT). CT imaging protocols will be discussed. The sites of recurrence have been categorized into 4 groups: chest and mediastinum, abdomen and pelvis, musculoskeletal, and neurological. For each site of recurrence, a representative CT image correlate with discussion is provided. The unique CT appearance of renal cell carcinoma recurrence and how it can be used in lesion detection will be discussed. Renal cell carcinoma recurrences are hypervascular like the primary tumor, which can aid in not only lesion detection but also in some cases, differentiation from other primary tumors. Through CT case review of various sites of recurrence, lesions are shown to be easily seen on arterial phase while sometimes being nearly inconspicuous on venous or delayed phases. Coronal and sagittal reconstructions can also improve diagnostic sensitivity. CT is the most commonly used imaging tool for surveillance of renal cell carcinoma recurrence after nephrectomy. Knowledge of sites of recurrence as well as the utility of arterial phase imaging and multiplanar reconstructions will aid in optimizing detection of disease recurrence.
New Mexico safety restraint law: changing patterns of motor vehicle injury, severity, and cost.

The impact of the New Mexico safety belt law on patterns of injury, severity, and cost was evaluated (using an emergency department data base). Data collected from November 1985 through February 1986 compared the 2 months before the January 1986 law with 2 months after. Before the law, 22.2% of the 379 injuries included abrasions, contusions, and lacerations to face, neck, and head. Following the law, this category constituted only 13.8% of 356 injuries, representing a reduction of 38% (P less than .05). Cost and injury severity scores (ISS) for 436 injured patients covered by the law were not significantly different between the pre- and post-seatbelt law periods. However, significant cost and severity differences were observed after the law between belted and nonbelted occupants: +2,569 compared with +662; ISS of 3.6 compared with 2.0 (P less than .05). Methodologic problems of an emergency department-based study and the need for E coding (external causes of injury) are discussed.
Effect of Coneutralization on Internal Aggregrate Structure in Ethylene-Based Ionomers

Local aggregate structures in ethylene−methacrylic acid (E−MAA) and ethylene−acrylic acid (E−AA) ionomers were studied using extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (EXAFS). In the case of pure zinc neutralization, E−AA and E−MAA ionomers showed very minor differences in EXAFS spectra. These small differences were statistically significant, however, and almost certainly a result of the structural differences between the acid repeat units. Overneutralization with zinc acetate dihydrate caused significant changes in the EXAFS pattern which could not be attributed to a linear combination of EXAFS spectra from the ionomer and zinc acetate dihydrate. Coneutralization with either lithium or sodium also changed the local environment around zinc. Zinc/sodium ratios were systematically varied in both E−AA and E−MAA. In the former, the local environment around zinc changed as the Zn/Na mole ratio changed from 1:0 to 1:1; at ratios between 1:1 and 1:9 the local environments were identical. Therefore, a...
Interstellar Dust and Diamonds

NONE of the classical models for the interstellar dust grains fit in with all the modern observations. Pure graphite particles produce insufficient extinction in the far ultraviolet1. The strong absorption band in the infrared predicted for ice or ice-coated graphite particles is not observed2. Neither type of particle has the combined properties of high albedo and nearly isotropic phase function needed to fit the observations of the diffuse galactic radiation3. These difficulties would be eliminated if the dust grains contain an abundant element in an allotropic form not considered previously: carbon in the form of diamond.
The Coupling of Ion-Enhanced Field Emission and the Discharge During Microscale Breakdown at Moderately High Pressures

Recent studies have shown that, in microscale electrode gaps, the traditional Paschen's curve fails as the left branch sharply decreases with electrode spacing, thus resulting in the modified Paschen's curve. This deviation from Paschen's curve is attributed to ion-enhanced field emission and notably breaks pressure times distance (pd) scaling. Here, 1-D particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collision simulations at moderately high pressures are used to predict breakdown and reproduce the modified Paschen's curve, which is in good agreement with existing theory. These simulations reveal that the net positive space charge that accumulates in the electrode gap enhances the electric field, subsequently enhancing field emission from the cathode. Because the emitted electrons generate additional ions in the discharge, a positive feedback mechanism occurs, where the field-emitted electrons produce the ions that enhance the electric field. It is revealed that this coupling between field emission and the discharge is necessary in order for breakdown to occur.
Structure of the prolidase from Pyrococcus furiosus.

The structure of prolidase from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfprol) has been solved and refined at 2.0 A resolution. This is the first structure of a prolidase, i.e., a peptidase specific for dipeptides having proline as the second residue. The asymmetric unit of the crystals contains a homodimer of the enzyme. Each of the two protein subunits has two domains. The C-terminal domain includes the catalytic site, which is centered on a dinuclear metal cluster. In the as-isolated form of Pfprol, the active-site metal atoms are Co(II) [Ghosh, M., et al. (1998) J. Bacteriol. 180, 4781−9]. An unexpected finding is that in the crystalline enzyme the active-site metal atoms are Zn(II), presumably as a result of metal exchange during crystallization. Both of the Zn(II) atoms are five-coordinate. The ligands include a bridging water molecule or hydroxide ion, which is likely to act as a nucleophile in the catalytic reaction. The two-domain polypeptide fold of Pfprol is similar to the folds of...
Predicting Infinite-Dilution Activity Coefficients of Organic Solutes in Ionic Liquids

Room-temperature ionic liquids have shown great potential as media for reactions and separations. Information on how solutes interact with these solvents is crucial in assessing their usefulness. Here, the quantitative structure−property relationship (QSPR) method is used to correlate values of infinite-dilution activity coefficients for 38 solutes in three ionic liquids. Constant-temperature and temperature-dependent correlations are created with correlation coefficients ranging from R2 = 0.90 to R2 = 0.99. In addition, correlation parameters are analyzed to understand the interactions that affect infinite-dilution activity coefficients.
Higher education governance and performance based funding as an ecology of games

To address the problematic situation of higher education affordability, and literacy, President Obama has recently outlined a new strategy to make colleges more affordable for the middle class. While this strategy includes many components, “Paying for Performance” is a core components of this new strategy. In recent years, states have also focused on performance based policies to influence the behaviour of higher education institutions. However, most impact assessment studies have shown that such policies have had a limited effect on the performance of these institutions. Most explanations given for this failure have been on the basis of principal-agent theory, resource dependence theory and neo-institutionalism. All these analyses tend to view universities in isolation of their real world ecology. Drawing from the insights of ecology of games perspective, this paper explains the failure of performance based funding policies in terms of the inherent complexity of the higher education system. Policy design implications like flexibility, symbolic contextualization and decentralized financial governance for higher education governance are also discussed.
A NATURALLY OCCURRING DEVELOPMENTAL SYNERGISM BETWEEN THE CELLULAR SLIME MOLD, DICTYOSTELIUM MUCOROIDES AND THE FUNGUS, MUCOR HIEMALIS

We here report the second record of a developmentally aberrant strain of a cellular slime mold from natural populations and demonstrate that this Dictyostelium mucoroides variant is capable of undergoing normal morphogenesis in the presence of the phycomycete fungus, Mucor hiemalis. The synergism is induced by an extracellular product(s) which is diffusable through thin agar membranes and is released by the fungus. The presence of the fungus not only induces stalk formation in this stalkless variant, but also increases the rate of sorocarp formation in 3 of 5 additional species of cellular slime molds assayed.