cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Glucose and insulin responses in isolated human lymphocytes reflect in vivo status: effects of VLCD treatment.

Abstract Human lymphocyte growth response to mitogen was examined in vitro under different conditions to monitor aspects of carbohydrate utilization in three groups: obese nondiabetic, obese/NIDDM, and normal-weight individuals. Although lymphocyte growth capacity in minimal medium for these three groups was found to be similar at a glucose concentration of 72 μg/ml in the absence of insulin or glycerol, differences in mitogen-stimulated growth were observed at lower glucose concentrations or in the presence of insulin or glycerol. Interestingly, these metabolic alterations in lymphocytes can be normalized by treating obese and obese/NIDDM subjects with a very low calorie diet (VLCD) regimen. The results of this study indicate that lymphocyte culture in a defined medium may provide a mechanism to examine different metabolic states and to evaluate treatment regimens (diet, exercise, etc. ) for obese and NIDDM subjects.
Pixene: creating memories while sharing photos

In this paper we describe Pixene, a photo sharing system that focuses on the capture and subsequent visualization and consumption of interactions around shared photos, where the sharing may be with physically co-present friends and family, or online with one's social network. In the former scenario, the interactions may be richly multimodal and involve pointing and spoken comments. Remote interaction is primarily in the form of 'like's and text comments on social networking sites. Pixene thus acts as a common repository for interactions over photos and brings interactions from a co-located and online photo sharing into a single platform. Pixene also provides a rich photo browsing experience that allows users to view not only the photographs but also the interaction history around them, e.g. who saw it, who did they see it with, what they said in association with different regions of interest, comments and 'like's. In this paper, we describe the features and system design of Pixene.
Measures of association of some air pollutants, natural ionizing radiation and cigarette smoking with mortality rates.

Two methods are employed to estimate the association the association of hydrocarbons, sulfur compounds, nitrogen compounds, natural ionizing radiation, and cigarette smoking with some age stratified and disease specific United States mortality rates for white males. The first method is based on a ridge regression technique and the second on a sign constrained least squares analysis. The measure of association between these environmental factors and mortality are quantified as elasticities; i.e., the indicated percentage change in the average mortality rate corresponding to a 1% change in the average level of environmental factor. Elasticities are estimated for age specific and disease specific mortality rates, and these values are then aggregated and compared to estimates corresponding to total mortality rates. Overall, consistent results are obtained using the above methods for sulfur compounds and cigarette smoking. Many of these results differ considerably from corresponding results obtained from the ordinary least squares regression analysis, highlighting the need for applying the appropriate estimation methods. In addition to the variables already specified, these analyses take into consideration the following groups of explanatory variables: Climate--Precipitation, January temperature, July temperature, humidity, and solar radiation. Socioeconomic--Age, education, sound housing, population per household, population density, % non-white, % white-collar, income, and city size.
Identification and properties of complex forms of SV40 DNA isolated from SV40-infected african green monkey (BSC-1) cells

Abstract 1. 1. The occurrence of complex forms of SV40 virus DNA has been studied in African Green monkey kidney (BSC-1) cells infected with SV40 virus. Covalently closed circular duplex DNA was isolated from SV40-infected BSC-1 cells with a procedure based upon the selective resistance of such molecules to irreversible alkali denaturation. Electron microscopic and ultracentrifugal examinations of this DNA revealed the presence of circular forms of multiple viral length. The intracellular SV40 DNA isolated 60 h after infection was found to contain about 1 % each of catenated dimers and circular dimers. A similar frequency of circular trimers was found. The trimer-sized molecules may be in part mitochondrial DNA molecules of identical size. 2. 2. Viral growth in the presence of 10 μg/ml ethidium bromide had no effect on the relative frequencies of these oligomeric forms, and little or no effect on the over-all yield of intracellular SV40 DNA or progeny virions. Both infected and non-infected BSC-1 cells were also found to contain a heterogeneous population of “minicircular” DNA's.
A Formable Advanced Thermoplastic Composite Sheet Based on an Excess Filament Length Concept

The development of a formable or stampable advanced thermoplastic com posite sheet is described. This unique sheet structure is based on an excess filament length concept that enables excellent sheet drawability, making possible the fabrication of com plex shapes while maintaining high advanced composite properties. The analysis of two fiber structures are presented—namely, sine wave and straight/zig-zag fiber patterns. Data is presented to show the dependence of sheet property on fiber structure. Results of theo retical analyses for the prediction of sheet properties of known fiber structures are also presented. In general the straight/zig-zag fiber structure gives higher mechanical proper ties than the sine wave structure. Reasons for these property differences are suggested. Ex amples of parts formed to demonstrate the concept of fabricating complex shapes of high properties are shown. Even though the sheets before forming have lower strength, when the fibers straightened out upon forming, properties o...
white settler assertions of native status

The anthropology of postcolonialism has tended to neglect or homogenize the varied expressions of cultural and national identity of British settler descendants. Against the backdrop of research with white settler descendants who farm large Crown pastoral lease properties in the South Island high country of New Zealand, this article examines evidence they presented before the Waitangi Tribunal about their attachment to land as a politicized expression of belonging, of one set of Pakeha voices. It analyzes how high country runholders speak about and symbolically construct belonging and suggests that the high country landscape is a central metaphor in the conceptual systems of its inhabitants, providing them with a way of thinking about their cultural distinctiveness within the arena of contestations in the meanings of cultural identities defined by the Waitangi Tribunal. [postcolonial settler identity, New Zealand high country, land claims, sheep station life, anthropology of place]
Sensor methods for use with microdialysis and ultrafiltration

Abstract The use of biosensors for metabolite and drug monitoring utilizing different micro dialysis sampling techniques is reviewed. After a brief introduction in the methods of microdialysis and ultrafiltration, general parameters that characterize the response of micro sensor devices (sensitivity range, sample requirements, response time) and the efficiency of micro sampling (charge and osmotic effects) are discussed. A variety of practical examples of biosensors used in micro sampling techniques are described. It is concluded that the intrinsic properties of biosensors are well suited for microdialysate monitoring, and that the progress in sensor technologies will open up the possibility of the use of integrated biosensor/microdialysis probe systems.
Awareness, knowledge and attitudes to non-melanoma skin cancer and actinic keratosis among the general public.

Background The incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) has dramatically increased worldwide. In areas of high incidence this will place a significant burden on the health system. Objectives To establish the awareness, knowledge and attitudes of the general public to NMSC and provide an overview on their level of understanding and knowledge of preventative measures. Methods Two thousand and one hundred Caucasian and Hispanic individuals, aged 40–75 years, from the UK, Italy, Germany, Spain, France, the USA and Australia were randomly selected to participate in this market research survey. In a structured telephone interview lasting approximately 10 min, respondents answered questions on NMSC, specifically actinic keratosis (AK) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Results Overall, 6% of respondents had been diagnosed with NMSC, of which the incidence was highest in Australia and the USA. The frequency of skin cancer detection examinations was also greater within these populations. Countries with a high incidence of NSMC had greater awareness of the condition, with more awareness of BCC than AK. The majority of respondents believed there was a correlation between skin cancer and sun exposure, however, a minority of respondents associated skin cancer with ‘moderate’ tanning. Overall, 86% of respondents claimed that they always took precautions against ultraviolet exposure when in the sun, but only 26% applied sunscreen most or all of the time when they were exposed to the sun for more than 1 h. In most of the countries, outside workers reported lower sunscreen use than other respondents. Conclusion Nonmelanoma skin cancer awareness and prevention behaviors varied significantly among the countries studied. Improved population-specific documentation of skin cancer knowledge and prevention behaviors will facilitate the development and assessment of public health campaigns.
Polarography in initial stages of elucidation of organic electrode processes

To develop a reliable electroanalytical method, it is essential to understand - at least in principle - the nature of physical and chemical processes involved. DC polarography is a useful tool in initial stages of elucidation of processes involving reductions and oxidations of organic compounds in aqueous solutions. Main information to be obtained involves: the number of reduction and oxidation steps, the number of electrons transferred in each step, the nature of the transport of electroactive species, the roles of fast, slower and slow chemical reactions (such as proton transfers or hydration-dehydration equilibria), in particular those preceding electron transfer and the structure of the electrolysis product. The used tools are: (i) Measurements of the limiting current and half-wave potentials and their dependence on composition of the supporting electrolyte; (ii) dependences on drop-time and scan-rate; (iii) product identification; (iv) comparison with structurally related compounds, experimentally and from literature. Examples of reductions of the following bonds are given. Single bonds: C-X (X = halides, OR, OH, NH 2 , SR), N-Y (Y = O, N, S), O-O, N-N, S-S. Double bonds: C=C, C=N, C=S, N=N, and also triple bonds: C≡C, C≡N. Examples of oxidations are those of phenols and of enediols. Anodic waves due to mercury salt formations are observed for thiols, urea and thiourea derivatives (barbiturates, thiobarbiturates), and dithiocarbamates. References are restricted to our work.
FIELD PERFORMANCE OF INTEGRAL ABUTMENT BRIDGE

The behavior of an integral abutment bridge near Rochester, Minnesota, was investigated from the beginning of construction through several years of service by monitoring more than 180 instruments that were installed in the bridge during construction. The instrumentation was used to measure abutment horizontal movement, abutment rotation, abutment pile strains, earth pressure behind abutments, pier pile strains, prestressed girder strains, concrete deck strains, thermal gradients, steel reinforcement strains, girder displacements, approach panel settlement, frost depth, and weather. In addition to determining the seasonal and daily trends of bridge behavior, live-load tests were conducted. All of the bridge components performed within the design parameters. The effects from the environmental loading of solar radiation and changing ambient temperature were found to be as large as or larger than live-load effects. The abutment was found to accommodate superstructure expansion and contraction through horizontal translation instead of rotation. The abutment piles appeared to be deforming in double curvature, with measured pile strains on the approach panel side of the piles indicating the onset of yielding.
Washing Carbon Out of the Air

The article examines mechanical responses to the problems of too much carbon dioxide in the air. Carbon dioxide concentration is a leading factor in the cause of global warming and climate change. The article notes the carbon dioxide filtering achieved by trees. A number of issues are examined including the fact that filters made with sorbent materials can bind with carbon and removed it from the air, the economic issues contained carbon capture on a massive scale, and the fact that millions of machines deployed could reduce carbon dioxide significantly.
“You're the Kind of Guy That We All Want for a Drinking Buddy”: Expressions of Parasocial Interaction on Floydlandis.com

This study traced fan reactions to and support of Floyd Landis over the final and dramatic stages of the 2006 Tour de France through the lens of parasocial interaction. A thematic analysis using constant comparative methodology of 1,086 fan postings on cyclist Floyd Landis's Web site (floydlandis.com) was conducted. Results indicated that fans' interaction with Landis reflected: (a) traditional dimensions of parasocial interaction, (b) relationally appropriate behaviors, and (c) active social interaction behaviors. Overall, the findings demonstrate that Internet communication technologies have shifted the nature of parasocial interaction from one-sided and passive to an approximation of actual social interaction and confirm that fans readily interact (para)socially with athletes.
Binary Carbon Sulfides: Unusual Molecules and Materials

Abstract Species with the formula [C x S y ] n are a relatively new source of molecules and materials with very simple compositions. The structures of these species are based on C=C, C-S, C=S, and S-S bonds.
Systemic vasoconstrictor effects of oxygen administration in obliterative pulmonary vascular disorders

Although oxygen is frequently administered to patients with obliterative pulmonary vascular disorders (OPVD) for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, its hemodynamic effects in these patients have not been systematically evaluated. The response to administration of 50 to 70% oxygen was studied in 14 patients with pulmonary hypertension secondary to OPVD. Mean pulmonary artery pressure decreased (from 62 +/- 5 to 57 +/- 5 mm Hg, p less than 0.01) after oxygen inhalation secondary to a decrease in cardiac index (1.9 +/- 0.2 to 1.8 +/- 0.2 liters/min/m2, p less than 0.01), without changes in pulmonary arteriolar resistance. This decline in forward output appeared to result from a systemic vasoconstrictor effect of oxygen (change in systemic vascular resistance from 1,965 +/- 275 to 2,297 +/- 336 dynes s cm-5, p less than 0.01), which decreased heart rate (from 93 +/- 3 to 89 +/- 2 beats/min, p less than 0.01) by stimulation of baroreceptor reflexes and decreased stroke volume (from 22 +/- 3 to 21 +/- 2 ml/beat/m2, p less than 0.05) by increasing impedance to left ventricular ejection. The decrease in left-sided cardiac output likely led to a decline in venous return to the right side of the heart and, consequently, to a decrease in right atrial and pulmonary arterial pressures. Accordingly, the percent decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure varied linearly and directly with the percent increase in systemic vascular resistance (r = 0.84), but not with changes in pulmonary arteriolar resistance (r = 0.15).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Image analysis for the automated estimation of clonal growth and its application to the growth of smooth muscle cells.

. Image analysis was used for the automated measurement of colony frequency (f) and colony diameter (d) in cultures of smooth muscle cells, Initial studies with the inverted microscope showed that number of cells (N) in a colony varied directly with d: log N= 1.98 log d - 3.469 Image analysis generated the complement of a cumulative distribution for f as a function of d. The number of cells in each segment of the distribution function was calculated by multiplying f and the average N for the segment. These data were displayed as a cumulative distribution function. The total number of colonies (fT) and the total number of cells (NT) were used to calculate the average colony size (NA). Population doublings (PD) were then expressed as log2NA. Image analysis confirmed previous studies in which colonies were sized and counted with an inverted microscope. Thus, image analysis is a rapid and automated technique for the measurement of clonal growth.
Urinary leukotriene (LT) E4 in adolescents with dysmenorrhea: a pilot study

Abstract In the present study we measured levels of urinary leukotriene (LT) E 4 as an index of LT production during the menstrual cycle in adolescents. Mean urinary LTE 4 levels in girls with dysmenorrhea was approximately threefold higher than normal laboratory values on Day 1 of the menstrual period and approximately twofold higher than normal laboratory values on Day 5 of the menstrual period. Compared with urinary LTE 4 levels in girls with eumenorrhea, urinary LTE 4 levels in girls with dysmenorrhea were higher on Day 1 [361 ± 123 pg/mg creatinine vs. 122 ± 37 pg/mg creatinine, p = .1; not significant (NS)] and on Day 5 (202 ± 26 pg/mg creatinine vs. 117 ± 26 pg/mg creatinine, p p = .1; NS) of the menstrual cycle. Increased urinary excretion of leukotrienes, inflammatory mediators known to cause potent vasoconstriction and uterine contractions, in girls with dysmenorrhea in this pilot study, suggests that these mediators may be involved in generating dysmenorrhea symptoms in adolescents.
The spatial dispersion of seabirds near the South Orkney Islands and the Weddell-Scotia confluence

We used five transects radiating from the South Orkney Islands to describe the distribution and abundance of marine birds during three days in late summer 1983. We found elevated numbers of birds at most crossings of steep physical gradients (fronts), but species were not equally attracted to each front. Our data suggest that the fronts around the South Orkney Islands, especially the Weddell-Scotia Confluence, provide important foraging habitat for birds. Albatrosses and fulmars appeared to aggregate preferentially near fronts overlying the insular slope, whereas Chinstrap Penguins were most abundant over the shelf.
Chemically- and mechanically-tunable porated polyethylene glycol gels for leukocyte integrin independent and dependent chemotaxis

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly complex mixture of protein, proteoglycans and growth factors that biochemically and mechanically regulates leukocyte migration during inflammation. Perturbations in ECM composition and mechanical properties are associated with the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases ranging from asthma to diabetes. The limited availability of in vitro models of human ECM has impeded inflammatory research, as current methods rely heavily on polycarbonate transwells and glass coverslips, which cannot accurately replicate the combined mechanical and biochemical properties of human ECM. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels offer a highly tunable substrate, with respect to both mechanical properties (as a function of molecular weight) and protein conjugation; unmodified PEG, however, cannot be used for leukocyte migration studies due to its impenetrable pore networks. We present a modifi ed PEG membrane in which hydrogel pore size, pore density, mechanical stiffness, and protein presentation can be easily controlled to mimic various human ECM, providing a new technology for investigating leukocyte recruitment.
Antisense oligonucleotides as antiviral agents: prospects and problems

One possible strategy for the development of antiviral drugs is to synthesize short antisense oligonucleotides that interfere specifically with RNA transcription and processing to prevent expression of protein. This can be readily achieved, but there are formidable technical problems to solve before routine clinical applications can be envisaged.
Self-organized learning of purely temporal information in a photorefractive optical resonator

A photorefractive resonator containing an optical delay line is shown to learn temporal information through a self-organization process. We present experiments in which a resonator mode selectively learns the mostfrequently presented signals at the input. We also demonstrate the self-organized association of two different analog signals with two different resonator modes.
Go with the flow: Fifty years of innovation and ion chemistry using the flowing afterglow

Abstract This restrospective chronicles the invention of the flowing afterglow technique fifty years ago by Ferguson, Fehsenfeld, and Schmeltekopf at the National Bureau of Standards Laboratories in Boulder, Colorado. Their pioneering development and applications of this powerful new experimental approach to a multitude of atmospheric reactions are described. The implementation and extension of the technique by scientists throughout the world is briefly discussed, and the paper concludes with a more personal story of research and innovation at the University of Colorado.
DYNAMIC OPTIMIZATION ANALYSIS FOR EQUIPMENT SETUP PROBLEMS IN ENDURANCE CYCLING

The goals of the work reported by this article are two-fold. The 8rst is to develop a dynamic optimization framework for analysis of equipment setup problems in endurance cycling. The second is to illustrate the application of the approach by determining an optimal chainring shape. To achieve these goals, a mathematical model of the pedaling motion for given trajectories of the net joint moments and the rate of change of the chainring radius was derived, and chainring optimization was posed as an optimal control problem. The cost functional produced a chainring shape that reduced the cost of endurance cycling at 250 W and 90 rpm, apparently by taking advantage of mechanical interactions that arise as a natural consequence of the movement. However, the predicted joint moments required larger peak values during phases of significantly increased joint velocity. Thus, the 'optimal' performance predicted by the cost functional appears opposed to expectations based on muscle mechanics and illustrates the need for further analysis of endurance cycling with a physiologically based cost functional.
Dislocations in hexagonal crystals

Abstract Dislocations in hexagonal crystals are treated on the basis of anisotropic elasticity theory. Formulas are obtained for the displacement field, stress field and energy of a dislocation of arbitrary orientation and arbitrary Burgers vector in a hexagonal crystal. The hexagonal system is the only crystal system for which a complete analytic solution exists. We are now in a position to treat analytically for hexagonal materials any dislocation problem which formerly could be treated only for isotropic materials.
Scaffold-forming and Adhesive Contributions of Synthetic Laminin-binding Proteins to Basement Membrane Assembly.

Laminins that possess three short arms contribute to basement membrane assembly by anchoring to cell surfaces, polymerizing, and binding to nidogen and collagen IV. Although laminins containing the α4 and α5 subunits are expressed in α2-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy, they may be ineffective substitutes because they bind weakly to cell surfaces and/or because they lack the third arm needed for polymerization. We asked whether linker proteins engineered to bind to deficient laminins that provide such missing activities would promote basement membrane assembly in a Schwann cell model. A chimeric fusion protein (αLNNd) that adds a short arm terminus to laminin through the nidogen binding locus was generated and compared with the dystrophy-ameliorating protein miniagrin (mAgrin) that binds to the laminin coiled-coil dystroglycan and sulfatides. αLNNd was found to mediate laminin binding to collagen IV, to bind to galactosyl sulfatide, and to selectively convert α-short arm deletion-mutant laminins LmΔαLN and LmΔαLN-L4b into polymerizing laminins. This protein enabled polymerization-deficient laminin but not an adhesion-deficient laminin lacking LG domains (LmΔLG) to assemble an extracellular matrix on Schwann cell surfaces. mAgrin, on the other hand, enabled LmΔLG to form an extracellular matrix on cell surfaces without increasing accumulation of non-polymerizing laminins. These gain-of-function studies reveal distinct polymerization and anchorage contributions to basement membrane assembly in which the three different LN domains mediate the former, and the LG domains provide primary anchorage with secondary contributions from the αLN domain. These findings may be relevant for an understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of laminin deficiency states.
Corporate Environmentalism in the Hotel Sector: Evidence of Drivers and Barriers in Penang, Malaysia

The linking of tourism businesses and their environmental impacts may be obscured by tourism's image as a ‘soft’ industry. This may explain why there are few studies of the drivers and barriers involved in corporate environmentalism, particularly within the context of developing countries where tourism is often a major foreign exchange earner. This paper narrows this gap by providing evidence about the drivers of and the barriers to corporate environmentalism in the hotel sector of Penang, Malaysia. Using qualitative data obtained via elite interviewing, document analysis and personal observation, the paper discusses the theoretical drivers of and barriers to corporate environmentalism in the study context. The findings indicate that without the introduction of more and stronger drivers, and without understanding and addressing the underlying barriers, instilling a sense of environmental responsibility in the hotel sector in Malaysia, as in other developing countries, may prove daunting.
Noncapped Alphavirus Genomic RNAs and Their Role during Infection

Alphaviruses are enveloped positive-sense RNA viruses that exhibit a wide host range consisting of vertebrate and invertebrate species. Previously we have reported that the infectivity of Sindbis virus (SINV), the model alphavirus, was largely a function of the cell line producing the viral particles. Mammalian-cell-derived SINV particles, on average, exhibit a higher particle-to-PFU ratio than mosquito cell-derived SINV particles. Nevertheless, the outcome of nonproductive infection, the molecular traits that determine particle infectivity and the biological importance of noninfectious particles were, prior to this study, unknown. Here, we report that the incoming genomic RNAs of noninfectious SINV particles undergo rapid degradation following infection. Moreover, these studies have led to the identification of the absence of the 5′ cap structure as a primary molecular determinant of particle infectivity. We show that the genomic RNAs of alphaviruses are not universally 5′ capped, with a significant number of noncapped genomic RNA produced early in infection. The production of noncapped viral genomic RNAs is important to the establishment and maintenance of alphaviral infection. IMPORTANCE This report is of importance to the field of virology for three reasons. First, these studies demonstrate that noncapped Sindbis virus particles are produced as a result of viral RNA synthesis. Second, this report is, to our knowledge, the first instance of the direct measurement of the half-life of an incoming genomic RNA from a positive-sense RNA virus. Third, these studies indicate that alphaviral infection is likely a concerted effort of infectious and noninfectious viral particles.
Immigration and Sexual Partner Risk Among Latino Adolescents in San Francisco

Sexual partner characteristics increase risk for adverse reproductive health outcomes. Evidence is limited regarding whether choice of sexual partners among Latino adolescents changes with U.S. acculturation/adaptation. We used generalized estimating equations to assess the associations between immigrant generation (recent immigrant, 1.5 [immigrated prior to adolescence], 2nd and 3rd) and sexual partner risk in a prospective cohort study of 411 Latino adolescents aged 14-19. We examined three measures of partner risk and mediating effects of family influence (familism and parental monitoring). The odds of reporting a partner with frequent substance use increased with increasing immigrant generation (odds ratios (OR) [reference = recent immigrants]: 2.3, 3.4, and 5.6) as did having a partner who was in a gang/incarcerated (OR [reference = recent immigrants]: 2.4, 3.6, and 5.7). Though the odds of having high-risk partners decreased with higher parental monitoring, neither family influence measure mediated these relationships. Findings underscore the need for a prevention focus on partner choice with attention to increased risk with increasing U.S. generation.
Diagnosis, Assessment, and Individual Complexity

The CLINICIAN'S diagnostic process involves both the identification and classification of the disorder and the assessment of individual functioning. Both aspects are important for planning treatment and for evaluating outcomes. The multiaxial system of diagnosing mental disorders has arisen in recognition of the need for a standardized system of classification for communication among professionals. Hence, the classifications in DSM-IV (axes 1 through 3) are supplemented by the assessment of an individual's life stressors and functioning (axes 4 and 5). 1 Axes 4 and 5, however, are wanting. Criteria for judgments are less specific than for the first three axes, and axes 4 and 5 occupy little attention in our manuals and do not take account of individual complexity. See also pages 625, 633, 639, 642, 645, 646, 649, 651, and 654 The article by Horowitz and colleagues 2 presents a method to bolster our systematic assessment of individual functioning. It
Focus-independent particle size measurement from streak images: a comparison of multivariate methods

Our laboratories have recently developed a flow-through imaging photometer to characterize and classify fluorescent particles between 3 and 47 μm in size. The wide aperture of the objective lens (0.7 NA) required for measuring spectral fluorescence of single particles restricts the depth of field, such that a large sample volume results in many particles that are out of focus. Here, we describe numerical methods for determining the size of these objects, regardless of their distance from the focal plane, using image processing and multivariate calibration. An intensity profile is extracted from the images and is used as the input for a variety of calibration methods, including partial least squares, neural networks, and support vector machines. The capabilities of these methods are examined to establish the best method for particle sizing that is independent of focus. We found that support vector machines provided the best results, with size estimation error of ±3.1 μm.
User-central wireless system: ultimate dynamic channel allocation

This paper introduces a new wireless architecture that creates ultimate freedom for dynamic channel allocation (DCA). The architecture is implemented based on the capabilities of cognitive radios. In the current wireless systems, users should subscribe to a service provider (vendor) and receive the service through the spectrum assigned to that vendor at all times. Hence, we call the current wireless systems as vendor-central systems. Vendor-central systems suffer from low utility performance defined in terms of spectrum efficiency, blocking rate, and revenue. In this work, we introduce a futuristic user-central wireless system configuration. In user-central systems, a user has the freedom of receiving the service through an optimum vendor at any time instance and geographical location. The optimum vendor is selected by an intelligent mobile based on parameters such as the vendor signal power, channel availability, congestion rate, cost per second, and quality of service. Here, vendors form a vendor area network (VAN) controlled by an inter-vendor mobile registration center (MRC). This paper discusses the system's structure, call procedure, and utility performance benefits attained by this system
Analyzing performance of sequencing mechanisms for simple layered task systems

Considers the problem of sequencing a set of parallel activities in the presence of nonzero overheads. Mechanisms for sequence control may range from explicit inter-task synchronization to more restrictive mechanisms such as blocking barriers. It is highly desirable to be able to base the choice of a sequence control mechanism for a parallel algorithm upon specific characteristics of the algorithm's structure and the underlying architecture. The paper presents approximate models for simple layered task systems that can predict overall performance and provide a useful understanding of key performance parameters and tradeoffs. The analytic results are compared with simulation to demonstrate their accuracy. Some simple applications of the model are presented that demonstrate non-intuitive behavior of layered graphs with inter-task versus barrier-based sequencing. >
Coarse acquisition performance of the minimum mean-squared error receiver

An adaptive receiver structure is considered for obtaining timing information for a direct-sequence code-division multiple-access (CDMA) communication network operating in a near-far environment. The receiver consists of a chip matched filter followed by an LMS adaptive equalizer. By using a simple channel access protocol, the timing information for a new system user can be extracted from the weights of the adaptive equalizer. A maximum-likelihood estimation algorithm based on several simplistic assumptions on the statistical properties of the adaptive filter weights has previously been presented. The coarse code acquisition performance of the estimation algorithm is investigated. Based on the estimation algorithm, a union bound is created to give an upper bound on the probability of not achieving coarse code acquisition.
A new simulation-based property checking algorithm based on partitioned alternative search space traversal

We present a new logic-simulation-based algorithm on verifying safety properties of large sequential hardware designs. This algorithm explores the search space defined by partitioned internal circuit nodes. Two powerful features are proposed to increase the effectiveness during search space exploration and counterexample generation for verifying safety properties. These include 1) new search space constituted by internal nodes instead of state variables and 2) static learning on multiple nodes to further enlarge the target. These two features are integrated with the following techniques during our simulation: incorporation of a BCP (Boolean constraint propagation) engine for multiple nodes implication and multiple-time-frame GA (genetic algorithm) search. Because only logic simulation is needed in our algorithm, the computational effort is low. Experimental results on large benchmark circuits have shown that this logic-simulation-based verifier achieves significantly better results compared with existing formal verification tools and simulation-based methods
School-Based Drug Prevention Among At-Risk Adolescents: Effects of ALERT Plus

In a recent randomized field trial, Ellickson et al. found the Project ALERT drug prevention curriculum curbed alcohol misuse and tobacco and marijuana use among eighth-grade adolescents. This article reports effects among ninth-grade at-risk adolescents. Comparisons between at-risk girls in ALERT Plus schools (basic curriculum extended to ninth grade with five booster lessons) and at-risk girls in control schools showed the program curbed weekly alcohol and marijuana use, at-risk drinking, alcohol use resulting in negative consequences, and attitudinal and perceptual factors conducive to drug use. Program-induced changes in perceived social influences, one's ability to resist those influences, and beliefs about the consequences of drug use mediated the ALERT Plus effects on drug use. No significant effects emerged for at-risk boys or at-risk adolescents in schools where the basic ALERT curriculum (covering seventh and eighth grades only) was delivered. Possible reasons for gender differences and implications for prevention programming are discussed.
Evaluating expert judgments

Although expert surveys have gained a prominent place in comparative studies of party positions on issues, their validity has been called into question. In this article, some of the validity concerns are evaluated in the context of the authors' own expert survey on national party positions vis-a-vis European integration. One goal of the article is to demon- strate that this expert survey produces valid measures of party positions. An equally impor- tant goal, however, is to suggest some methods that can help in assessing the quality of expert survey data. These methods, which are rooted in psychometric theory, are applicable in a variety of contexts and are easily implemented.
Nuclear localization of Klotho in brain: an anti-aging protein

Klotho is a putative age-suppressing gene whose overexpression in mice results in extension of life span. The Klotho gene encodes a single-pass transmembrane protein whose extracellular domain is shed and released into blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, potentially functioning as a humoral factor. The extracellular domain of Klotho has an activity that increases the expression of antioxidant enzymes and confers resistance to oxidative stress in cultured cells and in whole animals. The transmembrane form of the Klotho protein directly binds to multiple fibroblast growth factor receptors and modifies their ligand affinity and specificity. The purpose of the present study was to determine the precise cellular localization of Klotho in the mouse brain. Using light microscopic immunohistochemical methods, we found the highest levels of Klotho immunoreactivity in 2 brain regions: the choroid plexus, and cerebellar Purkinje cells. In the choroid plexus cells, Klotho was found not only on the plasma membrane but also in large amounts near the nuclear membrane. Likewise, in the Purkinje cell Klotho was found throughout the cell including dendrites, axon and soma with large amounts near the nuclear membrane. Using immunoelectron microscopy, we found Klotho in the cell membrane, but the highest concentration was localized in the peripheral portion of the nucleus and the nucleolus in both cell types. This new finding suggests that in addition to Klotho being secreted from cells in brain, it also has a nuclear function.
Steroid-induced alterations of behaviour during treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a sibling's description

When 7-year-old Aidan was asked to produce a piece of work about a family member at school, he composed a poem describing his 3-year-old younger brother's behaviour while he was on high-dose …
The Bridging Approach: Effective Strategies for Teaching Ethnically Diverse Nursing Students

This article describes one of the five patterns of teaching, the bridging pattern, which was identified by the author in a previous qualitative study that investigated the processes by which nurse educators teach ethnically diverse nursing students. An overview of the original study is presented, followed by a discussion of the findings regarding the bridging pattern. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with 26 nurse educators and 17 nurses representing three population groups: Asian Americans, African Americans, and Mexican Americans. In the bridging pattern, educators encourage students to maintain their ethnic identity, and teaching-learning strategies are modified to meet the cultural needs of students. The conditions, actions and consequences involved in the bridging approach to teaching are described and examples that emerged from the data are presented as illustrations. Examination of the actions of the bridging faculty may assist educators to analyze their own approach to teaching ethnically diverse students.
Understanding the pathophysiology of the arterial wall: which method should we choose? Magnetic resonance imaging

It has become increasingly recognized that it is the composition of plaque rather than the degree of stenosis that determines risk for plaque disruption, and therefore patient outcome. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most promising method for imaging plaque non-invasively and determining different plaque components. It allows discrimination of lipid core, fibrosis, calcification and thrombus deposits. It can be used to study the progression of and the effects of treatment for cardiovascular disease (e.g. statin therapy) over time. MRI can also be used to assess accurately the activity of thrombi and determine when they become inactive. MRI technology is evolving rapidly and will open up new areas for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis.
Choice Making in Group and Individual Activity

A guiding premise of occupational therapy practice is that it is beneficial to allow clients freedom of choice in selecting and participating in activities. This study examined subjects' affective responses to having or lacking freedom of choice in completing an activity and explored how those responses might differ when subjects did the activity in individual as opposed to group settings. Forty female undergraduate and graduate students participated in an origami activity under four different experimental conditions: a) individual--choice; b) individual--no choice; c) group--choice; and d) group--no choice. Afterward, each subject rated how she felt about herself while participating in the activity by using Osgood's semantic differential designed to elicit responses in terms of three affective factors: evaluation, power, and activity. Data analysis revealed an interaction between the two independent variables on the power factor such that subjects who were not permitted choice responded significantly differently from those who were permitted choice only in the group setting. Implications of this finding for occupational therapy practice are discussed.
Assessing sequence plasticity of a virus-like nanoparticle by evolution toward a versatile scaffold for vaccines and drug delivery

Virus-like particles (VLPs) have been extensively explored as nanoparticle vehicles for many applications in biotechnology (e.g., vaccines, drug delivery, imaging agents, biocatalysts). However, amino acid sequence plasticity relative to subunit expression and nanoparticle assembly has not been explored. Whereas the hepatitis B core protein (HBc) VLP appears to be the most promising model for fundamental and applied studies; particle instability, antigen fusion limitations, and intrinsic immunogenicity have limited its development. Here, we apply Escherichia coli-based cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) to rapidly produce and screen HBc protein variants that still self-assemble into VLPs. To improve nanoparticle stability, artificial covalent disulfide bridges were introduced throughout the VLP. Negative charges on the HBc VLP surface were then reduced to improve surface conjugation. However, removal of surface negative charges caused low subunit solubility and poor VLP assembly. Solubility and assembly as well as surface conjugation were greatly improved by transplanting a rare spike region onto the common shell structure. The newly stabilized and extensively modified HBc VLP had almost no immunogenicity in mice, demonstrating great promise for medical applications. This study introduces a general paradigm for functional improvement of complex protein assemblies such as VLPs. This is the first study, to our knowledge, to systematically explore the sequence plasticity of viral capsids as an approach to defining structure function relationships for viral capsid proteins. Our observations on the unexpected importance of the HBc spike tip charged state may also suggest new mechanistic routes toward viral therapeutics that block capsid assembly.
Hepatic Content of S-Adenosylmethionine, S-Adenosylhomocysteine and Glutathione in Rats Receiving Treatments Modulating Methyl Donor Availability

Because of evidence linking methyl group deficiency and increased tumor formation in experimental animals, we explored other possible methods of producing a methyl group deficiency. Rats fed a low methionine diet lacking choline (MCD)were injected intraperitoneallydaily for 3 wk with large doses of nicotinamide. Hepatic levels of lipidswere elevated, S-adenosyImethionine(SAM)levels and the SAM:S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) ratio were decreased, and SAH level was not consistently changed. In livers of rats fed the MCDdiet without folate (MCFD), lipids were also elevated and SAM reduced as compared to MCD-fedrats. Inrats fed the MCDdiet plus a methionine (Met) supplement (MCD + Met), hepatic SAM levels and the SAMzSAHratiowere higher and lipid levels lower than in MCD-fedrats, indicatingthat the MCDdiet is marginally deficient in methyl donor groups. The injection of nicotin amide or the removalof folate fromthe MCDdiet increased the severity of methyl donor deficiency, as shown by lower hepatic SAMlevels and higher hepatic lipidlevels. Hepatic glutathione levels were similarin MCD-and MCFD-fedrats and were lower than in rats fed the methionine-supple- mented MCDdiet or injected with nicotinamide. J. Nutr. 119: 1478-1482, 1989.
Composite intermediary and mediator models of gauge-mediated supersymmetry breaking

We discuss gauge-mediated models which employ a tree-level mass term in the superpotential. We give explicit composite realizations in which the mass terms are not fundamental. Instead, they arise as effective terms in the superpotential from confining gauge dynamics.