cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification and control in the partially known Merton portfolio selection model

Different aspects of the Merton two-asset portfolio selection model are studied in the case where the average rate of return for the risky asset α is not known to the investor. In particular, we investigate the question of estimation of α under arbitrary admissible allocation policy. The question of optimality of adaptive allocation policies is also discussed.
17 beta-Estradiol has a biphasic effect on gh cell growth.

Estrogen causes mammotroph and pituitary tumor growth i n vivo; we therefore studied its effect on growth of GH cells, a clonal line of rat pituitary tumor cells. Medium supplemented with gelding serum enabled us to detect effects of estradiol which are masked by the higher estrogen concentrations of commercially available horse serum. GH cells were treated with estradiol for 7 days. Cell number was affected in a biphasic fashion: estradiol at 10-11M and 10-11M increased cell number 6- to 13-fold. Concentrations between 3×10-11M and 10-9 M caused a dose-dependent decrease from the maximal cell number. The half maximal concentration for this inhibitory effect was about 10>-10M. Prolactin Production was stimulated 3-to 11-fold by estradiol, also with a half-maximal concentration of 10-10<M. We conclude that estradiol has at least 3 distinguishable effects on GH cells: stimulation of growth at concentration below 3×10-11M, and inhibition of growth at higher concentrations, as well as the well known stimulati...
Conduct problems moderate self-medication and mood-related drinking consequences in adolescents.

Objective: We tested whether conduct problems moderate the relation between negative mood and drinking in adolescents as consistent with either a self-medication or a drinking consequences model. Method: The sample included 75 rising ninth graders (i.e., in the summer before starting ninth grade) who completed a two-stage, multimethod, multireporter study. We used experience sampling to assess negative mood and drinking across 21 days and hierarchical linear modeling to test our hypotheses. Results: Counter to predictions, both self-medication and drinking consequence mechanisms were evident only in youth with fewer conduct problems. Conclusions: Findings provide support for the importance of considering multiple mechanisms as underlying the relation between negative mood and drinking as pertaining to subpopulations of vulnerable youth. Implications for prevention and understanding negative mood-drinking relations in adolescents are discussed. (J. Stud. Alcohol Drugs 69: 296-307, 2008)
E-NTPDases in human airways: Regulation and relevance for chronic lung diseases

Chronic obstructive lung diseases are characterized by the inability to prevent bacterial infection and a gradual loss of lung function caused by recurrent inflammatory responses. In the past decade, numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of nucleotide-mediated bacterial clearance. Their interaction with P2 receptors on airway epithelia provides a rapid ‘on-and-off’ signal stimulating mucus secretion, cilia beating activity and surface hydration. On the other hand, abnormally high ATP levels resulting from damaged epithelia and bacterial lysis may cause lung edema and exacerbate inflammatory responses. Airway ATP concentrations are regulated by ecto nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases (E-NTPDases) which are expressed on the mucosal surface and catalyze the sequential dephosphorylation of nucleoside triphosphates to nucleoside monophosphates (ATP → ADP → AMP). The common bacterial product, Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induces an acute reduction in azide-sensitive E-NTPDase activities, followed by a sustained increase in activity as well as NTPDase 1 and NTPDase 3 expression. Accordingly, chronic lung diseases, including cystic fibrosis (CF) and primary ciliary dyskinesia, are characterized by higher rates of nucleotide elimination, azide-sensitive E-NTPDase activities and expression. This review integrates the biphasic regulation of airway E-NTPDases with the function of purine signaling in lung diseases. During acute insults, a transient reduction in E-NTPDase activities may be beneficial to stimulate ATP-mediated bacterial clearance. In chronic lung diseases, elevating E-NTPDase activities may represent an attempt to prevent P2 receptor desensitization and nucleotide-mediated lung damage.
Could international labour rights play a role in US trade

During its last complete business cycle, from 2001 to 2007, the USA experienced unsustainably high trade deficits. Policymakers are considering a number of measures to avoid a recurrence of such large external imbalances. One such measure is the promotion of better labour rights around the world. Proponents argue that higher labour standards would boost US exports by increasing income growth abroad and reduce US imports by shrinking international price differences. Opponents of such a policy move argue that it is disguised protectionism that will impede trade and harm living standards in the USA and abroad. In this paper, I combine US trade data with data on international labour standards and other relevant economic variables to study any links between labour rights abroad and US trade. The results suggest that the USA would have benefited from more exports if there had been better worker rights around the world, but that labour rights would not have had any measurable impact on US imports. That is, the promotion of better worker rights around the world could contribute to smaller external imbalances without impeding international trade flows.
Implementation of a Frequency-Agile MIMO Dielectric Resonator Antenna

The design and implementation of a two-port frequency-reconfigurable multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) dielectric resonator antenna is described in detail. The frequency agility is achieved by the addition of reconfigurable parasitic slot loadings in proximity to the dielectric resonator block. Because of the orthogonality between the two radiating ports, the operating frequency of each port can be individually tuned without significantly affecting the frequency response of the other port. Hence, the proposed antenna can have two modes of operation: multifrequency mode and MIMO mode. In the multifrequency mode, the antenna ports can independently sweep through the frequency band of interest and look for nearby potential users. On the other hand, the antenna ports can be reconfigured into an MIMO antenna to boost up the capacity whenever heavy data traffic is required and the channel condition is appropriate. These capabilities make the antenna suitable for dynamic spectrum-access applications in cognitive radios.
The role of the macrolide tulathromycin in veterinary medicine

Tulathromycin is the first and only member of the triamilide sub-class of macrolides that is used therapeutically and has been registered in more than 30 countries across America, Europe, Oceania and Asia. The discovery of tulathromycin and its registration in multiple countries has been important for the food animal industry as it has been used successfully to treat economically important conditions such as bovine and porcine respiratory disease, infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis and interdigital necrobacillosis. Since it was first registered about 8 years ago, considerable information has been generated to help define tulathromycin's role in veterinary medicine as well as setting the basis for new treatment strategies and for the discovery of new macrolides with further applications in veterinary and human medicine. This article reviews this information and examines more recent findings particularly the effects of tulathromycin on the immune response, its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, its pattern of susceptibility and the identification of genes that may be associated with resistance to the drug.
Correlation Effect and Double Electron Ejection in the Photoabsorption Process

Electron-electron correlation effects in photoabsorption induced double electron ejection process, using many body perturbation theory
Class I Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Entinostat Suppresses Regulatory T Cells and Enhances Immunotherapies in Renal and Prostate Cancer Models

Background Immunosuppressive factors such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) limit the efficacy of immunotherapies. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors have been reported to have antitumor activity in different malignancies and immunomodulatory effects. Herein, we report the Tregs-targeting and immune-promoting effect of a class I specific HDAC inhibitor, entinostat, in combination with either IL-2 in a murine renal cell carcinoma (RENCA) model or a survivin-based vaccine therapy (SurVaxM) in a castration resistant prostate cancer (CR Myc-CaP) model. Methods and Results RENCA or CR Myc-CaP tumors were implanted orthotopically or subcutaneously, respectively. Inoculated mice were randomized into four treatment groups: vehicle, entinostat, cytokine or vaccine, and combination. Tregs in the blood were assessed by FACS analysis. Real time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis of isolated T cell subpopulations from spleen were performed to determine Foxp3 gene and protein expression. The suppressive function of Tregs was tested by T cell proliferation assay. Low dose (5 mg/kg) entinostat reduced Foxp3 levels in Tregs and this was associated with enhanced tumor growth inhibition in combination with either IL-2 or a SurVaxM vaccine. Entinostat down-regulated Foxp3 expression transcriptionally and blocked Tregs suppressive function without affecting T effector cells (Teffs). In vitro low dose entinostat (0.5 µM) induced STAT3 acetylation and a specific inhibitor of STAT3 partially rescued entinostat-induced down-regulation of Foxp3, suggesting that STAT3 signaling is involved in Foxp3 down-regulation by entinostat. Conclusions These results demonstrate a novel immunomodulatory effect of class I HDAC inhibition and provide a rationale for the clinical testing of entinostat to enhance cancer immunotherapy.
Has the world really survived the population bomb? (Commentary on "how the world survived the population bomb: lessons from 50 years of extraordinary demographic history")

In his PAA presidential address and corresponding article in Demography, David Lam (Demography 48:1231–1262, 2011) documented the extraordinary progress of humankind—vis-a-vis poverty alleviation, increased schooling, and reductions in mortality and fertility—since 1960 and noted that he expects further improvements by 2050. However, although Lam briefly covered the problems of global warming and pollution, he did not address several other major environmental problems that are closely related to the rapid human population growth in recent decades and to the progress he described. This commentary highlights some of these problems to provide a more balanced perspective on the situation of the world. Specifically, humans currently are using resources at an unsustainable level. Groundwater depletion and overuse of river water are major problems on multiple continents. Fossil fuel resources and several minerals are being depleted. Other major problems include deforestation, with the annual forest clearing globally estimated to be an area the size of New York State; and species extinction, with rates estimated to be 100 to 1,000 times higher than background rates. Principles of ecological economics are presented that allow an integration of ecology and economic development and better potential for preservation of the world for future generations.
A criterion for accurate aerosol sampling in calm air

The problem of aerosol sampling under calm air conditions has been studied by solving the Navier-Stokes equations and integrating the equations of particle motion. Both particle inertia and settling are considered. The sampling efficiency of an inlet has been found to depend on two dimensionless parameters, the Stokes number and the relative settling velocity. A new criterion for accurate aerosol sampling in calm air is then derived. Experimental data of several researchers are discussed in the light of this new sampling criterion, and the data are found to be in accord with the theoretical predictions.
Calculation of HmE for binary mixtures: some consequences of the conversion of cubic equations of state to hard-sphere versions

Abstract It has been reported by Mosedale and Wormald [1], and by Christensen et al. [2,3], that replacement in cubic equations of state (EOS) of the free volume term, 1/( V m - b ), with a hard-sphere expression improves the fit to the enthalpies of mixing, H m E , at near critical, constant, temperatures and pressures for binary mixtures. Further improvements can be obtained in some cases with Kreglewski's square-well combining rule for a 12 [4], and with a temperature-dependent b parameter [5]. For mixtures of CO 2 with a hydrocarbon, the improvements appear to allow estimates of H m E data that are as reliable as correlations with one adjustable interaction parameter. Attempts to use a hard-sphere expression in the Peng-Robinson equation lead to an unacceptable EOS. Singularities can be used to forecast when a hard-sphere version will be unacceptable.
Stimulatory effect of exogenous catecholamines on plasma HGH concentrations in presence of beta adrenergic blockade

Abstract The effect of infusions of epinephrine and propranolol singly and in combination on plasma growth hormone concentrations was determined in seven subjects. Epinephrine alone had no effect on plasma HGH concentrations. Propranolol which caused a rise in plasma HGH in only one subject when administered alone unmasked a stimulatory effect of epinephrine on plasma HGH concentrations when the two agents were given together. Analysis of plasma FFA supports the contention that the unmasking of a stimulatory effect of epinephrine on plasma HGH by propranolol was due to unopposed alpha receptor activity rather than suppression of epinephrine-induced FFA elevations. This investigation suggests that peripherally released or administered catecholamines may effect growth hormone secretory centers.
Is diagnostic accuracy for detecting pulmonary nodules in chest CT reduced after a long day of reading

Radiologists are reading more cases with more images, especially in CT and MRI and thus working longer hours than ever before. There have been concerns raised regarding fatigue and whether it impacts diagnostic accuracy. This study measured the impact of reader visual fatigue by assessing symptoms, visual strain via dark focus of accommodation, and diagnostic accuracy. Twenty radiologists and 20 radiology residents were given two diagnostic performance tests searching CT chest sequences for a solitary pulmonary nodule before (rested) and after (tired) a day of clinical reading. 10 cases used free search and navigation, and the other 100 cases used preset scrolling speed and duration. Subjects filled out the Swedish Occupational Fatigue Inventory (SOFI) and the oculomotor strain subscale of the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) before each session. Accuracy was measured using ROC techniques. Using Swensson's technique yields an ROC area = 0.86 rested vs. 0.83 tired, p (one-tailed) = 0.09. Using Swensson's LROC technique yields an area = 0.73 rested vs. 0.66 tired, p (one-tailed) = 0.09. Using Swensson's Loc Accuracy technique yields an area = 0.77 rested vs. 0.72 tired, p (one-tailed) = 0.13). Subjective measures of fatigue increased significantly from early to late reading. To date, the results support our findings with static images and detection of bone fractures. Radiologists at the end of a long work day experience greater levels of measurable visual fatigue or strain, contributing to a decrease in diagnostic accuracy. The decrease in accuracy was not as great however as with static images.
A review of licensed viral vaccines, some of their safety concerns, and the advances in the development of investigational viral vaccines

Viral vaccines could be considered among the most important medical achievements of the 20th century. They have prevented much suffering and saved many lives. Although some curative antiviral drugs exist, we desperately depend on efforts by academic, governmental and industrial scientists in the advancement of viral vaccines in the prevention and control of infectious diseases. In the next decade, we hope to see advancement in the development of current and investigational viral vaccines against childhood and adult infections. In this article, we will review the licensed viral vaccines, some of their safety concerns, and the advances in the development of investigational viral vaccines.
Calcium modulates plasmin cleavage of the fibrinogen D fragment γ chain N-terminus: mapping of monoclonal antibody J88B to a plasmin sensitive domain of the γ chain

Plasmin sensitive sites are found on the A alpha, B beta and gamma chains of fibrinogen at regions joining the two C-terminal D fragments with the central E fragment. We have developed a monoclonal antibody (MoAb) reactive with this plasmin sensitive region on the human fibrinogen gamma chain and mapped its epitope. MoAb J88B reacts with gamma chains of both native as well as with reduced and denatured fibrinogen and fibrin, the CNBr fragment of the fibrinogen central domain, plasmin cleaved fragments D, gamma-gamma dimers, but not with plasmic fragments E. These data indicate that J88B maps to the plasmin sensitive domain localized to gamma 63-78. MoAb J88B failed to react with synthetic peptide gamma 70-78, which suggests that the epitope includes the newly exposed N-terminal residues gamma 63-70 of the early plasmic fragment D1A. As calcium has a marked influence on plasmin cleavage of C-terminal sites on the gamma chain, the effects of calcium on modulating plasmin cleavage of D1A to D1 were assessed in the absence or presence of J88B. The results indicated that calcium delays and J88B (+/- calcium) protects the gamma chain from plasmin cleavage at the N-terminus of D1A, suggesting that this enzymatically labile site is calcium-sensitive. Thus, MoAb J88B should prove useful in studies examining the structure of plasmin cleaved fibrinogen and fibrin.
A non-perturbative approach for the theory of excitonic polaritons in disordered microcavities

We apply a closed-path time Green's function approach as an alternative to the replica technique to formulate a non-perturbative description of cavity polaritons in the presence of a symmetry-breaking disorder. Our calculations show that the theory of Zittartz cannot be applied to the cavity polaritons with only minor modifications.
The vibrational spectra of CF3OF

Abstract The i.r. spectrum of gaseous CF 3 OF from 4000-33 cm −1 and the Raman spectrum of the liquid are interpreted on the basis of C s symmetry and the same general geometrical configuration as CH 3 OH. The twelve assigned fundamental frequencies provide explanation for forty-two of the forty-seven observed overtone and combination bands. A force constant calculation based on these assignments is performed which yields potential constants, potential energy distribution and normal coordinates. Analysis of i.r. band contours yields moments of inertia in agreement with those calculated from assumed geometry. The height of the threefold barrier to internal rotation is calculated to be 395 cm −1 , whereas thermodynamic properties in the temperature range 200–600°K are tabulated.
TWO-DOMAIN STRUCTURE OF THE TD INTRON-ENCODED ENDONUCLEASE I-TEVI CORRELATES WITH THE TWO-DOMAIN CONFIGURATION OF THE HOMING SITE

I-TevI, the T4 td intron-encoded endonuclease, catalyzes the first step in intron homing by making a double-strand break in the intronless allele within a sequence designated the homing site. The 28 kDa enzyme, which interacts with the homing site over a span of 37 bp, binds as a monomer, contacting two domains of the substrate. In this study, limited proteolysis experiments indicate that I-TevI consists of two domains that behave as discrete physical entities as judged by a number of functional and structural criteria. Overexpression clones for each domain were constructed and the proteins were purified. The carboxy-terminal domain has DNA-binding activity coincident with the primary binding region of the homing site and binds with the same affinity as the full-length enzyme. The isolated amino-terminal domain, contains the conserved GIY-YIG motif, consistent with its being the catalytic domain. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis of a conserved arginine residue within the extended motif rendered the full-length protein catalytically inactive, although DNA-binding was maintained. This is the first evidence that the GIY-YIG motif is important for catalytic activity. An enzyme with an N-terminal catalytic domain and a C-terminal DNA-binding domain connected by a flexible linker is in accord with the bipartite structure of the homing site.
High Incidence of Iron Depletion in College Women not Explained by Patterns of Red Meat Consumption.

Abstract College women are at risk for iron deficiency and often adopt dietary practices that may have a negative influence on iron status. This study surveyed 81 college women (19–26 years, null gravid, null para) recruited from classes and general campus announcements. Usual dietary intake and habits were estimated using a food frequency instrument (Health Habits and History Questionnaire, National Cancer Institute, 1987), and questionnaire. Hematological status was assessed from a fasting venous blood sample (Roche Biomedical Laboratories, Maumee, Ohio). Serum ferritin was measured by immunoassay (Nichols Institute Diagnostic, San Juan Capistran, CA). Iron depletion was evident in a high percentage of the women. Serum ferritin was
Characterization of RNA molecules restricted to the nucleus in mouse L-cells.

RNA molecules which are restricted to the nucleus in mouse L-cells were characterized by the technique of RNA/DNA hybridization. Competition of cytoplasmic RNA with labeled nuclear RNA of various sizes revealed that the RNA restricted to the cell nucleus is heterogeneous in size. Competition for sites on fractions of mouse DNA of various base compositions indicated that this unstable RNA is also heterogeneous in base composition. Fractionation of nuclei into three subfractions failed to separate the uniquely nuclear RNA from the precursors of cytoplasmic RNA. The significance of the selective transport of RNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and its importance in the control of gene activity in eucaryotic cells is discussed.
Sex Expression in Atriplex canescens: Genetics and Environment

The sex expression of 665 individually tagged plants of Atriplex canescens was recorded over a 7-yr period (1972-1978): 59% of the plants maintained constant sex expression; 41% changed sex. Sex ratios were determined for 20 naturally occurring A. canescens populations. In 19 4x populations, [female] s predominated with a mean ratio of 59.7 [female]:36.2~ [male] :4.1 [[female],[male]]. For the only 2x population, a 1~ [male]: 1 [female] ratio was observed. These results suggest a trioecious genetic system for 4x populations wherein XXXX genotypes are [female], XXYY genotypes are ~[male], and XXXY genotypes under ordinary circumstances are biased toward [female] phenotypic expression but are labile and may be [female],[male] , or [[female], [male]]. ~XXXY phenotypic expression as [male]s and [[female],[male]]s is apparently correlated with environmental stress.
Excitons in WS2 films pressure and temperature effects

A technique for producing thin film samples WS2 is reported. Exciton peak positions are measured as a function of hydrostatic pressure to 3500 atm at 90 K and temperatures in the range 90 to 300 K. Values for (∂E/∂P)T for the A- and B-peaks are 5.9 × 10−6 and 7.2 × 10−6 eV/atm, respectively. Peak C shifts 0.3 × 10−6 eV/atm, while values of (∂E/∂T)P are −1.8 × 10−4, −2.8 × 10−4, and −0.3 × 10−4 eV/K for peaks A, B, and C, respectively. The value of (∂E/∂T)V is estimated at 1 × 10−4 eV/K. A comparison of these results with those for MoS2 is made, and comments are made concerning the nature of the band structure of WS2. Eine Technik fur die Herstellung dunner WS2-Schichten wird mitgeteilt. Die Lagen der Exzitonenmaxima werden in Abhangigkeit von der Temperatur zwischen 90 und 300 K und als Funktion des hydrostatischen Druckes bis 3500 atm bei 90 K gemessen. Die Werte fur (∂E/∂P)T betragen 5,9 × 10−6 and 7,2 × 10−6 eV/atm fur die Exzitonenmaxima A bzw. B. Das Exzitonenmaximum C verschiebt sich um 0,3 × 10−6 eV/atm. Die Werte fur (∂E/∂T)P sind −1,8 × 10−4, −2,8 × 10−4 und −0,3 × 10−4 eV/K fur die Exzitonenmaxima A, B bzw. C. Der Wert fur (∂E/∂T)V wird zu 1 × 10−4 eV/K geschatzt. Ein Vergleich dieser Ergebnisse mit denen fur MoS2 wird gemacht und die Natur der Bandstruktur fur WS2 wird diskutiert.
Travelling wave ion mobility

The research papers in this issue of the International Journal for Ion Mobility Spectrometry are the concluding articles of a two-part special issue on Travelling Wave Ion Mobility. The first issue, published in March (Volume 16, Issue 1, March 2013), covered a wide range of research areas: ‘Resolving the microcosmos of complex samples: UPLC/travelling wave ion mobility separation high resolution mass spectrometry for the analysis of in vivo drug metabolism studies’ by Blech and Laux; ‘The effects of cation adduction upon the conformation of three-helix bundle protein domains’ by Sokratous et al.; ‘Monitoring oligomer formation from self-aggregating amylin peptides using ESI-IMS-MS’ by Young et al.; ‘Traveling-wave ion mobility-mass spectrometry reveals additional mechanistic details in the stabilization of protein complex ions through tuned salt additives’ by Han and Ruotolo; 'Coupling electrospray corona discharge, charge reduction and ion mobility mass spectrometry: From peptides to large macromolecular protein complexes' by Campuzano and Schnier; and 'Structural studies of metal ligand complexes by ion mobility-mass spectrometry' by Wright et al. The papers in this issue extend upon the range of studies presented in the first issue and together they illustrate the broad utility and applicability of (travelling wave) ion mobility—mass spectrometry. Since the launch of the first travelling wave ion mobility system (SYNAPT) some 7 years ago, the interest in ion mobility coupled with mass spectrometry has grown tremendously and shows no sign of abating. We continue to push the boundaries of ion mobility instrumentation design and, together with our customers and collaborators, work to extend the applications of this technology. I am indebted to the small cross-section of our customers/collaborators who have taken the time to contribute to this special issue on Travelling Wave Ion Mobility and offer my sincere thanks.
Further investigations of nucleation by initial breeding in the AI-free NH4-ZSM-5 system

Abstract It was reported previously that nucleation in seeded AI-free NH4-ZSM5-5 systems was catalyzed by an initial-bred nucleation mechanism, i.e. where microcrystalline “dust” is washed offf the seed crystal surface to nucleate a new population of crystals. The current study was undertaken to verify those findings. In this study, seed crystals of different sizes were placed in synthesis solutions carefully to minimize mixing. In addition, seed crystals were slurried gently in either water or NH4OH solutions to dislodge these microcrystalline fragments. The liquid was then collected after filtration and used in subsequently zeolite syntheses. All these crystallizations yielded smaller product crystals than did unseeded crystallizations having the same batch compositions, but were comparable in size to the product crystals in seeded crystallizations. The size of the product crystals was dependent on the retention capacity of the filters used, suggesting that smaller sieve-sized filters were capable of removing some of these initial-bred nuclei from the solutions.
The discovery of creatinine assimilation in Cryptococcus neoformans, and subsequent work on the characterization of the two varieties of C. neoformans.

Summary The discovery of creatinine assimilation in C. neoformans by Staib served as the foundation for our biochemical, genetical, ecological, epidemiological and taxonomic studies on the two varieties of C. neoformans for the past 15 years. The two varietal concept is now widely accepted and the arrival of AIDS epidemic has promoted the recognition of the differences between the two varieties, especially in their epidemiology and ecology. Since the agent of cryptococcosis in AIDS patients almost always belongs to the var. neoformans even in geographical areas prevalent for var. gattii , it is important to study the possible differences in the pathogenesis of the two varieties.
50.3: Finite Element Analysis of Ball Drop on LCD Panels

A ball drop test is amongst the tests used to assess the response of an LCD device under impact conditions. Two different glass thicknesses − 0.5 mm and 0.7 mm - were submitted to this test in consideration for this paper. The result of the testing demonstrated that when a ball is dropped onto the outside surface of color-filter glass, the peak stress occurs on the bottom of color-filter glass, and not on the bottom of the TFT glass. In addition to this, we studied an extreme case where the back plate is rigid, since most LCD displays have a diffuser plate or back plate behind the panel. The rigid plate restricts the panel deflection when impacted by a ball. The findings from this study can be used as guidelines to go for thinner panels by balancing panel thickness, diffuser / back plate stiffness and the distance between the panel and the back plate. When appropriately implemented, panels made with 0.5 mm glass substrates may experience lower stress when compared to those made with 0.7 mm glass.
Topological determinants of protein folding

The folding of many small proteins is kinetically a two-state process that represents overcoming the major free-energy barrier. A kinetic characteristic of a conformation, its probability to descend to the native state domain in the amount of time that represents a small fraction of total folding time, has been introduced to determine to which side of the free-energy barrier a conformation belongs. However, which features make a protein conformation on the folding pathway become committed to rapidly descending to the native state has been a mystery. Using two small, well characterized proteins, CI2 and C-Src SH3, we show how topological properties of protein conformations determine their kinetic ability to fold. We use a macroscopic measure of the protein contact network topology, the average graph connectivity, by constructing graphs that are based on the geometry of protein conformations. We find that the average connectivity is higher for conformations with a high folding probability than for those with a high probability to unfold. Other macroscopic measures of protein structural and energetic properties such as radius of gyration, rms distance, solvent-accessible surface area, contact order, and potential energy fail to serve as predictors of the probability of a given conformation to fold.
Galvanism as Therapeutic Agent: Perkins's “Metallic Tractors” and the Placebo Effect

(2001). Galvanism as Therapeutic Agent: Perkins's “Metallic Tractors” and the Placebo Effect. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 14, No. 4, pp. 24-37.
Intensity-modulated radiosurgery with rapidarc for multiple brain metastases and comparison with static approach

Rotational RapidArc (RA) and static intensity-modulated radiosurgery (IMRS) have been used for brain radiosurgery. This study compares the 2 techniques from beam delivery parameters and dosimetry aspects for multiple brain metastases. Twelve patients with 2-12 brain lesions treated with IMRS were replanned using RA. For each patient, an optimal 2-arc RA plan from several trials was chosen for comparison with IMRS. Homogeneity, conformity, and gradient indexes have been calculated. The mean dose to normal brain and maximal dose to other critical organs were evaluated. It was found that monitor unit (MU) reduction by RA is more pronounced for cases with larger number of brain lesions. The MU-ratio of RA and IMRS is reduced from 104% to 39% when lesions increase from 2 to 12. The dose homogeneities are comparable in both techniques and the conformity and gradient indexes and critical organ doses are higher in RA. Treatment time is greatly reduced by RA in intracranial radiosurgery, because RA uses fewer MUs, fewer beams, and fewer couch angles.
The carbohydrate requirement of Moniliformis (Acanthocephala).

Abstract Starvation of the rat host for periods of 24 to 80 hours produces a decrease in the polysaccharide content and wet weight of male and female Moniliformis . Evidence was obtained for a normal diurnal fluctuation in polysaccharide content of the worms. Feeding of maltose to previously starved animals did not produce changes in wet weight or polysaccharide content of worms removed from the host two hours after feeding. When starved animals were given starch by stomach tube, there was a marked increase in the wet weight and polysaccharide content of worms removed from the host seven hours later; worms obtained from the host twenty-five hours after the administration of starch did not differ significantly in wet weight or polysaccharide content from those recovered before the feeding of starch. When the rat host is placed on a diet devoid of carbohydrate for a period of twelve days during the initial growth of the worm, growth of Moniliformis ceases. When such hosts are returned to a diet containing carbohydrate, worm growth is resumed. It is concluded that Moniliformis requires carbohydrate for growth and that this requirement must be met through the ingestion of carbohydrate by the host.
Alcohol use and stress in women: The role of prior vs. anticipated stressors

The present study investigated stress-related drinking in women. Alcohol consumption in response to stress and in anticipation of a stressor was examined to evaluate women's use of alcohol to cope with stress. Subjects were assigned to one of four conditions in a 2 × 2 factorial design in which order of alcohol consumption and stress task as well as stress level was manipulated. Findings indicate that subjects did not consume alcohol to cope with the effects of either a prior stressor or an upcoming stressor. These results suggest the need for further refinement of notions concerning women's use of alcohol to cope with stress.
Systemic chemotherapy for advanced breast cancer

During a 20-year period, 377 women with primary advanced or metastatic breast cancer were treated systemically by various chemotherapeutic agents and were considered suitable for a detailed analysis of therapeutic results. Fifty-five (15%) of these patients experienced objective remission of palpable or demonstrable disease for 2 months and 10% for 6 months, but 19.6% died within one month after the initiation of treatment. It should be noted that 271 of the total patients in this study had been previously treated by additive or ablative hormone therapy and, at the time chemotherapy was given, a majority had multiple metastases and, in some instances, involvement of vital organs. Regardless of the type of chemotherapy, as well as the initial maintenance or total dosage, the poorest therapeutic results were obtained when the metastases were located in the bones, brain, or lungs with lymphangiectatic involvement and the liver with jaundice or abdominal ascites. The best results were observed when the cancer was located in nonvital soft tissues as well as nodular pulmonary metastases and the liver without associated functional complications. While there are controversial opinions regarding the need for toxic side effects in order to produce objective remissions, in our observations, dosages just below the level of toxicity in most instances produced almost equal therapeutic results. If there were failures to subtoxic doses, better results were obtained by using a different cytotoxic agent rather than increasing the amount of the initial drug. In this review, very few patients received simultaneously multiple anticancer drugs, and whether or not this would produce better results than successive use of single cytotoxic agents remains to be evaluated. The determination of which chemotherapeutic agent is most effective regarding the anatomical site of the breast cancer cells remains an unsolved problem. In this nonrandomized study, comparative results suggested that objective responses declined in the following order: methotrexate, Leukeran, Thio-TEPA, Velban, 5-fluorouracil, Cytoxan, and nitrogen mustard. It should be noted that the number of patients treated by each of these compounds varied considerably, and this may in part account for the differences in response rates. When chemotherapy was combined simultaneously with other palliative measures, the results in the chemotherapy group were improved but infrequently exceeded the response rates of those following the use of additive or ablative hormone therapy alone. While chemotherapy has contributed to the symptomatic and objective palliation of many patients with advanced breast cancers, our observations suggest that with few exceptions it should be used to supplement rather than to replace other measures. The exceptions apply to those patients who would be unable to tolerate other palliative procedures because of physical conditions from anatomical sites of metastases, advanced age, or unrelated complications.
Decreased brain docosahexaenoic acid content produces neurobiological effects associated with depression : Interactions with reproductive status in female rats

Decreased tissue levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) are implicated in the etiologies of non-puerperal and postpartum depression. With the aim of determining neurobiological sequelae of decreased brain DHA content, this study examined the effects of a loss of brain DHA content and concurrent reproductive status in adult female Long-Evans rats. An α-linolenic acid-deficient diet and breeding protocols were used to produce virgin and parous female rats with cortical phospholipid DHA levels 23–26% lower than virgin and parous rats fed a control diet containing adequate α-linolenic acid. Parous dams were tested/euthanized at weaning (postnatal day 20) of the second litter; virgin females, during diestrus. Decreased brain DHA was associated with decreased hippocampal BDNF gene expression and increased relative corticosterone response to an intense stressor, regardless of reproductive status. In virgin females with decreased brain DHA, serotonin content and turnover in frontal cortex were decreased compared to virgin females with normal brain DHA. In parous dams with decreased brain DHA, the density of 5-HT1A receptors in the hippocampus was increased, corticosterone response to an intense stressor was increased, and the latency to immobility in the forced swim test was decreased compared to parous dams with normal DHA. These findings demonstrate neurobiological alterations attributable to decreased brain DHA or an interaction of parous status and brain DHA level. Furthermore, the data are consistent with findings in depressed humans, and thus support a role for DHA as a factor in the etiologies of depressive illnesses, particularly postpartum depression.
Assessing the Risk in the Design of Passing Sight Distances

Mostly, design methods in transportation engineering do not address the level of risk associated with the design and use of various highway elements. Passing sight distance (PSD) is an example of a highway operational element analyzed with no risk measures. The aim of this paper is to attach risk indexes to various PSD lengths. The writers devised a unique microscopic simulation using the ARENA software for replicating passing maneuvers on two-lane two-way roads. The simulation monitors the movement of three vehicles: the passing, the impeding, and the opposing vehicles. Two thousand passing attempts are simulated for each PSD length, and a weighed risk index is obtained. The risk index is mainly based on the value of the clearance time between the passing and the opposing vehicles at the end of the passing maneuver. Six levels of risk are identified. Using the simulation results, the writers are able to assess the risk of various PSD lengths for a specific design speed. In addition, the risks associated with the current PSD standards are identified. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials “Green Book” values are shown to be conservative relative to the other design values. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices values fall within the acceptable risk levels. With risk measures attached to the PSD lengths, a trade-off analysis between the level of service and risk is feasible to accomplish.
An evaluation of chemical persistence screening approaches

A chemical's ability to persist in the environment is an important criterion in determining whether concern is warranted. Screening is commonly conducted based on the maximum degradation half-life of the chemical in any given medium (air, water, soil and sediment), or in terms of model-based estimates of the chemical's overall persistence (half-life or residence time) in the environment. In practice, however, both approaches are hindered by the limited availability of degradation data. Straightforward guidelines are therefore proposed in this paper to help predetermine which half-lives are likely to be pertinent, irrespective of the screening approach adopted. The guidelines are based on partitioning coefficients (Henry's Law constant and the octanol-water partitioning coefficient). The values selected for use in the guidelines result in a quantifiable trade-off between data acquisition requirements and uncertainty. Initial screening can be performed with whatever data is readily available. Overall persistence predictions will be conservative. False-negatives are not generated. The guideline values can then be adjusted iteratively to facilitate step-wise or tiered screening. Using this iterative approach in national and international screening initiatives will result in significant time and money savings.
Effect of pseudomonas elastase on human mononuclear phagocyte alpha 1-antitrypsin expression.

ABSTRACT: The net balance of neutrophil elastase and its inhibitor, α1-antitrypsin (α1-AT), is a critical determinant of connective tissue turnover during homeostasis and in disease states. In addition to liver-derived a1-AT, which translocates from blood to tissues, this elastase-α1-AT balance is maintained by expression of α-AT at the local tissue level in resident mononuclear phagocytes. Our previous studies have shown that this elastase-α1-AT balance is also tightly controlled at a cellular level in that addition of exogenous neutrophil elastase (serpine-type elastase) to cultured mononuclear phagocytes is associated with an increase in expression of the α1-AT gene. Subsequent studies have demonstrated that this novel regulatory loop involves interaction between exogenous neutrophil elastase and endogenous α1-AT inducing a structural rearrangement in the α1-AT molecule and exposing highly conserved conformation-specific domain of α1-AT, which can then be recognized by a specific cell surface receptor, the serpinenzyme complex receptor. In the following study, we examined the effect of a bacterial metalloelastase, Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase, on expression of α1-AT in human mononuclear phagocytes. We show that pseudomonas elastase inactivates monocyte-derived α1-AT by limited proteolysis but, in so doing, a1-AT becomes recognized by the serpin-enzyme complex receptor and mediates an increase in de novo synthesis of a1-AT in these cells. However, the concentrations of pseudomonas elastase needed to proteolytically inactivate a1-AT in monocyte culture fluid are higher than those required for inactivation of purified plasma a1-AT. Results of experiments in this report show that this can be explained, at least in part, by binding of pseudomonas elastase to another endogenous protease inhibitor, α2-macroglobulin. Thus, the results of this study further define the elaborate mechanisms by which the host mononuclear phagocyte controls the elastase-α1-AT balance and, in turn, connective tissue turnover.
Clinical presentation of celiac disease in the pediatric population.

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by the ingestion of gluten-containing grains (including wheat, rye, and barley) in genetically susceptible individuals. CD is associated with HLA molecules DQ2 (90%–95%) and DQ8 (5%–10%), and in the continued presence of gluten the disease is self-perpetuating. CD is one of the most common lifelong disorders worldwide and is characterized by a variety of clinical presentations. These include the typical malabsorption syndrome (classic symptoms) and a spectrum of symptoms potentially affecting any organ or body system (nonclassic symptoms). Because CD often is atypical or even clinically silent, many cases go undiagnosed and are exposed to the risk of long-term complications. There is growing interest in the social aspects of CD because the burden of illness related to this condition is doubtless higher than previously thought.
Energy gap from tunneling and metallic contacts onto MgB 2 : Possible evidence for a weakened surface layer

Point-contact tunnel junctions using a Au tip on sintered ${\mathrm{MgB}}_{2}$ pellets reveal a sharp superconducting energy gap that is confirmed by subsequent metallic contacts made on the same sample. The peak in the tunneling conductance and the metallic contact conductance follow the BCS form, but the gap values of $4.3\ensuremath{-}4.6 \mathrm{meV}$ are less than the weak-coupling BCS value of 5.9 meV for the bulk ${T}_{c}$ of 39 K. The low value of $\ensuremath{\Delta}$ compared to the BCS value for the bulk ${T}_{c}$ is possibly due to chemical reactions at the surface.
Hysterical seizures: the role of sexual exploitation.

Abstract The authors examine perceived sexual exploitation as the catalyst for hysterical seizures, with special attention to the emotional conflicts underlying the symptoms. In case studies of four adolescent girls exhibiting hysterical behavior, interviews uncovered a common pattern: an initial seizure that was immediately preceded by a sexually overt event perceived as exploitative; subsequent seizures precipitated by events that were sexually charged for the young women; and a fear of males in general.
Ovarian tumor as manifestation of relapse in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was initially diagnosed in a 12-year-old girl. Maintenance chemotherapy was discontinued after 32 months of continuous remission. Relapse of ALL occurred ten months after cessation of chemotherapy. Twenty-one months after relapse, she presented with a large ovarian tumor due to leukemic infiltration while her bone marrow and central nervous system (CNS) were still in remission. She remained in bone marrow and CNS remission when disseminated leukemic infiltration of the peritoneum was found seven months later. She died of bone marrow relapse 11 months after ovarian relapse, six years and two months after the initial diagnosis. In contrast to testicular relapse, ovarian relapses in acute lymphoblastic leukemia are rarely reported.
Studies for a dedicated B detector at the Fermilab collider

The observation of CP violation in the B system is one of the great experimental challenges of the next decade. Several B factories are already planned, however, there will be many interesting measurements awaiting a second generation of B exeriments. Studies are being carried out to design a dedicated collider B experiment for the Tevatron at Fermilab. A dedicated B detector at a hadron collider will have a physics reach beyond that of experiments scheduled to begin operation before the end of the decade.