cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Method for Approximating Semivariance in Project Portfolio Analysis

ABSTRACT Semivariance, as a measure of risk, has the advantage relative to variance of focusing on reduction of losses. When this measure is used in capital budgeting problems, a full knowledge of the joint probability distribution about the projects’ investment returns is required to calculate the semivariance of alternatives. Unfortunately, when the decision maker is faced with a set of alternatives and each alternative has a large number of projects, the development of such a distribution is usually impractical. Therefore, many analysts resort to computer simulation to approximate the semivariance of project portfolios with little knowledge about the accuracy of the simulation This paper presents a set of linear regression models intended to approximate the semivariance of a sum of independently distributed project returns. The approximation is bounded by 1·5% and 2·5% relative errors for single project returns (random variables) and project portfolios (linear combinations), respectively. Besides the b...
The Effects of Tax Increment Financing on Economic Development

Abstract Local governments attempt to influence business location decisions and economic development through use of the property tax. Tax increment financing (TIF) earmarks property tax revenues that result from growth in assessed valuation. The TIF revenues are to be used for economic development projects but may also be diverted for other purposes. Using data for the Chicago metropolitan area that includes information on property value growth before and after TIF adoption, we find evidence that cities that adopt TIF grow more slowly than those that do not. We test for and reject sample selection bias as an explanation of this finding.
Rumour research can douse digital wildfires

Work on how rumours arise and spread could help to dampen the effects of damaging misinformation circulating on the Internet, says Nicholas DiFonzo.
Attack-resilient distributed formation control via online adaptation

This paper investigates a distributed formation control problem in an operator-vehicle network where each vehicle is remotely controlled by an operator. Each operator-vehicle pair is attacked by an adversary, who corrupts the commands sent from the operator to the vehicle following a partially unknown strategy. We propose a novel distributed control algorithm that allows operators to adapt their policies online by exploiting the latest collected information about adversaries. The algorithm enables vehicles to asymptotically achieve the desired formation from any initial configuration and initial estimate of the adversaries' strategies. It is shown that the sequence of the distances to the desired formation is summable. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the performance of the algorithm. In particular, we observe that the rate of convergence to the desired formation is exponential, outperforming our theoretical result.
Performance parameters of the diagnostic scoring systems for autoimmune hepatitis.

The diagnostic criteria for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have been codified by an international panel, and a revision of the original scoring system based on 12 clinical components has been promulgated. A simplified scoring system has been proposed recently that is based on four clinical components. The goals of this study were to compare the performance parameters of the revised original and the simplified scoring systems and to determine the prowess of each as a diagnostic instrument. Diagnostic scores were determined using each scoring system in 435 patients with diverse chronic liver diseases, including 153 individuals with AIH by codified clinical criteria. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictability of each scoring system for the pretreatment diagnosis of AIH were determined. The revised original scoring system had greater sensitivity for the diagnosis than the simplified scoring system (100% versus 95%), and seven patients diagnosed as AIH using the revised original system were nondiagnostic by the simplified system (5%). The revised original scoring system also ascribed a diagnosis of AIH to 20 of 21 patients with cryptogenic chronic hepatitis, whereas only five patients were similarly classified by the simplified system (95% versus 24%). The simplified system had greater specificity (90% versus 73%) and predictability (92% versus 82%) for AIH than the revised original system, and it more commonly excluded the diagnosis in other diseases with concurrent immune features (83% versus 64%). Conclusion: The revised original scoring system performs better in patients with few or atypical features of AIH, and the simplified system is better at excluding the diagnosis in diseases with concurrent immune manifestations. Each system has attributes that can be exploited. (HEPATOLOGY 2008.)
Exploring the Mechanics of Magnetically Driven Motility in Magnetotactic Bacteria through Genetic Regulation

Magnetotactic bacteria guide themselves to optimal growth environments by a process termed magneto-aerotaxis, in which chains of intracellular magnetic nanoparticles, known as magnetosomes, orient along the Earth's geomagnetic field lines as a guide to efficiently locate oxygen-poor regions. From an external standpoint, this unique magnetotactic navigation system is regulated by key components: a magnetic nano-compass (magnetosome chain), a propulsion system (flagellar motility), and some magnetically-activated sensor (signal transduction). We hope to gain insight into these external systems by deconstructing the internal regulation of magnetotactic navigation from a genetics perspective. While genomic regions have been identified that encode magnetosome-related genes, little is known about how these genes regulate magnetosome production and how they interact with flagellar and cytoskeletal components to achieve guided motility. Here, we explore the genetic response of Magnetospirillum magneticum strain AMB-1 to an applied electromagnetic field as a means to identify genes activated by magnetic stimulation, focusing on magnetosome island, magnetotactic islet, flagellar, and cytoskeleton genes. AMB-1 cultures were subjected to static, high magnetic field (10G) generated by a solenoid or to low frequency pulsed magnetic field (between 0G and 10G at 0.0033 Hz) for 30 min, 1 hour, 3 hours or 6 hours. After extracting total RNA and converting to cDNA, quantitative real time-PCR was performed to measure relative transcription levels. Both static and pulsed magnetic fields altered gene expression with the greatest changes occurring at shorter time points. Differential regulation of mamK and mamK-like genes responsible for mechanical stabilization of magnetosomes, in addition to flagellar anchor protein fliF and actin-like structural protein mreB, provides evidence for altered regulation of mechanics- and motility-related processes with magnetic activation. We believe these findings provide significant targets for understanding the genetic regulation and mechanics of magnetically-driven bionavigation.
Currents through the fusion pore that forms during exocytosis of a secretory vesicle.

Exocytosis, or the fusion of cytoplasmic vesicles with the cell membrane, occurs in nearly all eukaryotic cells, but its mechanism is not understood. Morphological1,2 and electrophysiological studies3–5 have suggested that membrane fusion begins with the formation of a 'fusion pore', a narrow channel across the closely adjacent membranes of vesicle and cell that forms the first connection of the vesicle lumen with the cell exterior and later dilates to allow release of vesicle contents. We used the patch clamp technique to study exocytosis of single giant secretory vesicles in mast cells of beige mice4,5. The first opening of the fusion pore was found to generate a brief current transient, whose size and direction indicated an initial pore conductance of about 230 pS and a lumen-positive vesicle membrane potential. In time-resolved a.c. admittance measurements, the pore conductance was found to increase to much larger values within milliseconds, as if the pore dilated soon after opening. We conclude that the earliest fusion event may be the formation of a structure similar to an ion channel. Its conductance is of the same order of magnitude as that of a single gap junction channel, the only other known channel that spans two membranes.
Decreased single breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity in cocaine freebase smokers

The authors performed pulmonary function tests on 10 chronic cocaine freebase smokers. Testing occurred at least 2 weeks after stopping cocaine use. Mean single breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCOSB) was significantly reduced (P less than 0.05) in the cocaine smokers when compared with a control group of non-smokers and non-drug users. All other parameters of lung function were normal. Since most of the cocaine smokers also smoked tobacco, the observed abnormality may have been due to an additive effect of the 2 substances. The authors conclude that smoking cocaine may damage the gas exchange surface of the lung.
Effects of pentadecan-2-one on the growth of cells in culture.

The effect of inclusion of trace amounts of pentadecan-2-one in the incubation medium on the growth of HeLa Cells was evaluated by measuring viable cell counts (cells excluding trypan blue) and incorporation of [14C] leucine into acid precipitable protein. Evidence is presented to show that exposure of the cells to trace amounts of the methyl ketone, 36μg/ml, effectively inhibits cell growth. This inhibition is relieved by simultaneously incubating the cells with a long chain primary alcohol, hexadecan-1-ol, but not with the secondary alcohol, pentadecan-2-ol. The observation that the ethyl ketone, hexadecan-3-one, also inhibits cell growth but at higher concentrations than that observed with pentadecan-2-one and that pentadecan-2-ol at similar concentrations has no effect on cell growth indicates that, for optimal effect, the keto function must be at the 2-position. Inhibition of cell growth by pentadecan-2-one is not unique to HeLa cells, as suggested by the inhibitory effects of this lipid type on the growth of other malignant cell lines of human origin.
Exercise and Cardiovascular Outcomes by Hypertensive Status: NHANES I Epidemiological Follow-up Study, 1971–1992

Background A favorable effect of exercise on cardiovascular longevity has been repeatedly demonstrated in the general population. The association of exercise and cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcome among persons with different blood pressure (BP) status is less well known. Methods We examined the epidemiologic follow-up of the First National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES I) (1971–1992). Of 14,407 participants, 9791 subjects aged 25 to 74 years met inclusion criteria. All cause, CVD, and non-CVD mortality rates, as well as CVD incidence rates were determined. The associations of levels of exercise and outcomes by BP status were examined. Age- and gender-adjusted rates, as well as Cox proportional hazard models were determined. Results During 17 years of follow-up, there were 3069 deaths, 1465 of which were CVD. In addition, 2808 subjects had incident CVD events. Overall, CVD incidence and mortality rates increased as BP rose. The association of exercise with CVD events differed by BP status (normal, prehypertension, and hypertension). Age- and gender-adjusted CVD mortality rate per 1000 person-years for least, moderate, and most exercise were 5.0, 3.6, and 2.4 among normotensive subjects ( P > .05), 6.3, 4.7, and 5.2 among prehypertensive subjects ( P > .05), and 11.8, 9.8, and 8.7 among hypertensive subjects ( P Conclusions This study, consistent with previous observational data, demonstrates that increased exercise is associated with decreased CVD event. Interestingly, this effect is most robust among hypertensive subjects, whereas for prehypertensive and normotensive subjects, a significant benefit of exercise on CVD outcome, perhaps because of lack of power, was not found.
Exchange Rate Effects on Korea's Economy

Korea has been under growing pressure to appreciate its exchange rate to reduce the trade surplus, particularly with the United States. A change in the external currency value of a country has direct effects on the trade via changes in relative prices and indriect effects via induced changes in income and monetary conditions. This notes presents some estimates of these effects, using the available price elasticity estimates and a macroeconomic model of Korea. Even though the estimates presented are not very precise, an exchange rate appreciation is shown to lower the trade balance, price levels, and overall economic growth of Korea. Then, this note suggests the policy course Korea should take to meet Korea's desire to reduce its external debt and to avoid the global consequences of the large continuing U. S. deficits. [430]
The superiorly based nasolabial flap for simultaneous alar and cheek reconstruction

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the epidemiology of skin cancer in a patient with preexisting skin cancer. 2. Understand the indications for the use of a nasolabial flap and nonanatomic alar strut graft. 3. Describe the blood supply to the nasolabial flap. The goals of reconstructing deformities of the face acquired secondary to skin tumors include optimizing donor-site aesthetics and reconstructing the area with similar types of tissue when possible. Multiple skin-cancer defects are often seen by the plastic surgeon and complicate the reconstruction, requiring more than one flap or skin graft. A case analysis of an innovative application of the nasolabial flap for reconstruction of a simultaneous medial cheek and alar-base nasal defect is presented. Concepts in nasal reconstruction are reviewed, and the authors' approach to alar reconstruction is presented.
Right Atrial Volume Measurements from Biplane Cineangiocardiography Methodology, Normal Values, and Alterations with Pressure or Volume Overload

Right atrial (RA) volumes were calculated from biplane cineangiocardiograms obtained during diagnostic cardiac catheterization in twenty-nine patients with normal right hearts. Validation of methodology was performed with calculations of right atrial casts of 14 human right atria. An excellent correlation of known and calculated volume was obtained either with a Simpson's rule method, r = 0.999, or with the area-length method assuming an ellipsoid of revolution, r = 0.998. The relationship between patient size and RA maximal volume (RA Max) was best fit by an exponential equation relating RA Max to body surface area: [RA Max = 54.6 (BSA)1.233, r = 0.979, F ratio 561.8]. RA Max normalized for body size was significantly less for infants less than one year of age than for older patients. RA Max averaged 38% greater than LA Max in the normal group. RA Max was evaluated in 14 patients with atrial septal defect or anomalous pulnonary venous return. These patients all showed increases in RA Max averaging 198% o...
Comment on ``Constraints on the strength of primordial magnetic fields from big bang nucleosynthesis reexamined''

Recently Cheng, Olinto, Schramm and Truran (COST) reexamined the constraints from big bang nucleosynthesis (BBN) on the strength of primordial magnetic fields. Their bottom line agreed with that of an earlier recent paper on the subject (Kernan, Starkman and Vachaspati (KSV)), both in its final limit on the magnetic field during BBN, and in its conclusion that for allowed values of the magnetic field the dominant factor for BBN is the increased expansion rate at a given temperature caused by the energy density of the magnetic field, $B^2/8\pi$. However, their conclusion that weak interaction rates increased with increasing B-field at these low field values contradicted the earlier results of KSV. In this comment we point out that the Taylor series expansion of the weak interaction rate about B=0 used in COST is not well-defined, while the Euler-McLaurin expansion of KSV is well-behaved and reliable. Using the Euler-McLaurin expansion we find that the weak interaction rates decrease rather than increase with increasing B-field at small values of the B-field.
Theoretical Model of Oxidative Adsorption of Water on a Highly Reduced Reconstructed Oxide Surface

Highly reduced surface reconstructions of BaTiO3 (001) have been found to be composed of a TiO2 surface covered with Ti adatoms occupying surface interstitial sites. We predict the reactivity of these highly oxophilic and reduced surface Ti species through density functional theory, where we calculate the adsorption of H2O on the (√5 × √5)R26.6° TiO2-Ti3/5 reconstruction. H2O serves as the primary O source and oxidizing agent. We demonstrate that H2O oxidizes some of the Ti adatoms, shifting their occupied 3d states to the surface conduction band edge. We find that, due to the high concentration of reduced Ti species on the surface, a dissociative adsorption of water on the reconstructed surface can also lead to the formation of surface hydrides, which serve as a precursor for H2 evolution. This suggests that the reconstructed surface may be an attractive single-phase hydrogen evolution catalyst.
Measuring stigma across neurological conditions: the development of the stigma scale for chronic illness (SSCI)

Most measures of stigma are illness specific and do not allow for comparisons across conditions. As part of a study of health-related quality of life for people with neurological disorders, our team developed an instrument to assess the stigma for people with chronic illnesses. We based item content on literature review, responses from focus groups, and cognitive interviews. We then administered the items to people with neurological disorders for psychometric testing. Five hundred eleven participants completed items of the stigma scale. Exploratory factor analysis produced two factors that were highly correlated (r = 0.81). Confirmatory factor analysis produced high standardized loadings on an overall stigma factor (0.68–0.94), with poorer loadings on the two sub-domains (−0.12 to 0.53). These results demonstrated a sufficiently unidimensional scale that corresponded with the bifactor model. Item response theory modeling suggested good model fit, and differential item functioning analyses indicated that the 24-item scale showed potential for measurement equivalence across conditions. Our efforts produced a stigma scale that had promising psychometric properties. Further study can provide additional information about the SSCI and its benefit in measuring the impact of stigma across conditions.
Detection of building facades in urban environments

We describe an approach to automatically detect building facades in images of urban environments. This is an important problem in vision-based navigation, landmark recognition, and surveillance applications. In particular, with the proliferation of GPS- and camera-enabled cell phones, a backup geolocation system is needed when GPS satellite signals are blocked in so-called "urban canyons." Image line segments are first located, and then the vanishing points of these segments are determined using the RANSAC robust estimation algorithm. Next, the intersections of line segments associated with pairs of vanishing points are used to generate local support for planar facades at different orientations. The plane support points are then clustered using an algorithm that requires no knowledge of the number of clusters or of their spatial proximity. Finally, building facades are identified by fitting vanishing point-aligned quadrilaterals to the clustered support points. Our experiments show good performance in a number of complex urban environments. The main contribution of our approach is its improved performance over existing approaches while placing no constraints on the facades in terms of their number or orientation, and minimal constraints on the length of the detected line segments.
From Civil Rights to Human Rights: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Struggle for Economic Justice – By Thomas F. Jackson

The quest for economic justice was basic to Martin Luther King Jr.'s mission. Although significant references to King's economic philosophy and opposition to economic injustice can be found in nume...
Lymphedema of the limb. An overview of treatment options.

PREVIEWLymphedema, a chronic condition with no known cure, can have a profound physical and psychological impact in affected patients. The optimal form of treatment is a matter of controversy. Drs Tunkel and Lachmann shed light on causes of this condition and some of the palliative therapies that may help minimize complications and discomfort.
Photoneutron Cross Sections With Monoenergetic Neutron-Capture Gamma Rays

Monoenergetic gamma rays produced by thermal neutron capture have been used to study photoneutron cross sections of the isotopes ${\mathrm{Ta}}^{181}$, ${\mathrm{Li}}^{7}$, ${\mathrm{Li}}^{6}$, ${\mathrm{C}}^{13}$, and ${B}^{10}$ for $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray energies between threshold and 10.8 MeV. Some cross sections were obtained with uncertainties as low as 10%. Wherever possible, these cross sections are compared with those obtained by other methods. The threshold for the ${\mathrm{Ta}}^{181}(\ensuremath{\gamma}, n)$ reaction has been determined to be 7.64\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04 MeV. Information about the radiative widths of the 7.47-MeV level in ${\mathrm{Li}}^{7}$ and the 8.89-MeV level in ${\mathrm{B}}^{10}$ is presented.
A new theory for bending of thick sandwich beams

Abstract Classical sandwich theory incorporates stretching and bending action in the facings and transverse shear deformation in the core. The theory presented here is intended for sandwich beams with relatively thick facings and moderately stiff cores of either bimodular material (which has different elastic moduli in tension and compression) or ordinary materials. Thus, transverse shear deformation in the facings as well as stretching and bending action in the core are also considered. Both analytical and finite-element results are presented and compared with the existing classical sandwich theory, which is shown to be unconservative in its predictions of both deflections and maximum shear stresses.
A model of the stimulation of B-cells by replicating antigen—II

Abstract In a previous paper, a model of the humoral (antibody) response to a nonreplicating antigen was developed. This model employed a system of differential equations in the form of a singularly perturbed initial value problem. This work is extended to a model of the stimulation of B-lymphocytes due to a replicating antigen. The Hopf bifurcation theorem and techniques of singular perturbation theory are used to demonstrate some of the varied behavior of the model.
Efficacy and Morbidity of Autologous Fascia Lata Sling Cystourethropexy

ABSTRACT Purpose Sling cystourethropexy for intrinsic sphincter deficiency has more recently been accepted as effective surgical treatment for all types of stress urinary incontinence. We report our experience using autologous fascia lata for sling cystourethropexy, regarding treatment efficacy, harvest site morbidity and patient satisfaction. Materials and Methods A retrospective data base review identified all women who underwent sling cystourethropexy using autologous fascia lata for stress urinary incontinence. A followup survey study using questionnaires (Black and Urogenic Distress Inventory-6) combined with questions regarding pad use, satisfaction and leg morbidity was done. Results A total of 100 women who could be contacted and who had undergone autologous fascia lata sling cystourethropexy performed by a single surgeon between 1993 and 2002 were surveyed. Mean patient followup was 4.4 years (range 0.8 to 9.3). Of the women 85% stated that they were dry or improved and 93% were pain-free at the harvest site by 7 days. There was no harvest site infection and no lower extremity thrombotic complication. Of the patients 83% indicated that the procedure had a positive effect on their life with only 4% stating that it had a negative effect, while 77% were satisfied with the procedure, 82% would recommend the procedure to a friend with incontinence and 83% would undergo the procedure if making the decision again. Conclusions Autologous fascia lata sling cystourethropexy is associated with high patient satisfaction and treatment efficacy comparable to that of other sling cystourethropexy materials, as determined by questionnaire. Harvest site morbidity is low. Sling cystourethropexy using autologous fascia lata should be considered as a primary surgical approach in women with stress urinary incontinence.
Comparative profiling of human saliva by intact protein LC/ESI-TOF mass spectrometry

Human saliva is finding increasing interest for proteomic and biomarker-discovery studies, due to the ease of collection and potential for simpler processing workflows compared to serum or plasma. However, it is known that salivary protein composition can vary with physiological and environmental factors. In this work, we have examined intra- and inter-person variability of saliva protein composition using an LC/MS methodology to profile low molecular weight human salivary proteins. Whole saliva was analyzed from four individuals over three consecutive days. Additional samples were used to determine baseline analytical and sample processing variation and to identify phosphoproteins. Individuals were observed to have a similar salivary protein pattern over multiple days, although the expression levels of particular proteins were variable. Significant differences in protein profiles were observed between subjects, allowing for delineation of individuals based on their protein profile. Comparison with alkaline phosphatase treated saliva revealed that several identified proteins were singly, doubly, or triply phosphorylated.
Surgical Repair of an Esophageal Stricture in a Horse

An esophageal stricture was diagnosed in a 9-month-old quarterhorse by esophagoscopy and positive pressure contrast esophagography. Medical management and two attempts at surgical intervention were unsuccessful. The initial surgical technique used was a linear esophagotomy, mucosal resection and anastomosis, and closure of the muscular tunic, which resulted in a more severe stricture. The second surgical procedure was interruption of the stricture cicatrix by a single linear esophagotomy and primary closure of only the esophageal muscular tunic. This technique resulted in an increased lumen diameter, but failed to adequately resolve the stricture. Successful resolution of the stricture with return to a normal diet was achieved by a two stage repair using formation of an esophagostomy to stabilize the esophagus, followed by fenestration of the mucosal-submucosal cicatrix. Six months postoperatively, the horse was asymptomatic on a normal diet.
Staged Hybrid Left Pulmonary Artery Rehabilitation in Post-Fontan Left Pulmonary Artery Hypoplasia

Left pulmonary artery hypoplasia in the setting of Fontan circulation predisposes to pulmonary artery discontinuity. We describe a novel approach to correct post-Fontan left pulmonary artery discontinuity by a strategy to produce isolated left pulmonary artery growth, followed by a catheter-based reincorporation of the left pulmonary artery into the Fontan circuit.
End-user testing for the Lyee methodology using the screen transition paradigm and WYSIWYT

End-user specification of Lyee programs is one goal envisioned by the Lyee methodology. But with any software development effort comes the possibility of faults. Thus, providing end users a means to enter their own specifications is not enough; they must also be provided with the means to find faults in their specifications, in a manner that is appropriate not only for the end user's programming environment but also for his or her background. In this paper, we present an approach to solve this problem that marries two proven technologies for end users. One methodology for enabling end users to program is the screen transition paradigm. One useful visual testing methodology is 'What you see is what you test (WYSIWYT)'. In this paper, we show that WYSIWYT test adequacy criteria can be used with the screen transition paradigm, and present a systematic translation from this paradigm to the formal model underlying WYSIWYT.
Characterization and improvement of the contact between indium tin oxide and triphenyl diamine-doped polycarbonate

Abstract We have measured the electrical characteristics at the contact between indium tin oxide (ITO) and the molecularly doped polymer N-N ′-diphenyl- N-N ′-bis(3-methylphenyl)-1-1-biphenyl-4,4′-diamine-doped polycarbonate (PC:TPD). We find that the contact is current-limiting, supplying the sample with a current that is considerably smaller than the space charge limited current. When an ultra-thin layer of Pt or Pd is introduced between ITO and PC:TPD an increase in the injected current is observed as the contact becomes ohmic.
Group B streptococcus induces trophoblast death

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is one of the leading causes of neonatal infection; however the molecular mechanisms involved are not clearly known. Here we used high and low hemolytic GBS isolates and mutant GBS that lacks beta-hemolysin expression and showed that GBS infection or exposure to GBS hemolysin extract induces primary human trophoblast, placental fibroblast and JEG3 trophoblast cell line death, and that GBS-induced trophoblast death was beta-hemolysin dependent. The fibroblasts and trophoblasts provide an innate immune barrier between fetal and maternal circulation in the placenta. These data suggest that GBS may disrupt this barrier to invade fetal circulation.
Protein NMR spin trapping with [methyl-13C3]-MNP: application to the tyrosyl radical of equine myoglobin

Abstract Direct spin trapping studies of protein radical adducts are limited as a consequence of the long rotational correlation times and consequent broadening of the ESR resonances. It can be difficult to determine both the nature and number of adduct species present. NMR detection of reduced spin adducts represents an alternate approach which, however, is subject to the limitations of lower sensitivity and a limited capability for isolating the resonances arising from the reduced adduct from other chemistry involving the spin trap. In the present study, we have utilized [methyl-13C3]-MNP for the detection and analysis of tyrosyl spin adducts formed as a result of exposure of equine myoglobin to hydrogen peroxide. The methyl-13C label allows high detection sensitivity in two dimensions, narrow line widths and most significantly, removal by dialysis of unreacted spin trap as well as any nonprotein derivatives that may form. For equine myoglobin, it is found that adduct formation involves a single residue—Tyr-103 and further that adduct formation occurs at the C-3 carbon of the amino acid. HMQC-NOESY experiments further revealed the proximity of the labeled methyl groups to both the three aromatic tyrosyl protons as well as the aromatic protons of the nearby Phe-106 residue.
Observation of Reversible Photochemical “Blow Out” of the Third-Order Molecular Hyperpolarizability of Push−Pull Azo Dye in High Glass Transition Temperature Polyimides

We present evidence of reversible optical control of the third-order molecular hyperpolarizability (γ) of nonlinear optical (NLO) azo chromophore. We show that optically-induced molecular shape change of the NLO dye from the trans to the cis form, by means of photoisomerization which occurs within the picosecond time scale, breaks γ down rapidly. The anharmonic movement of the electronic cloud of the NLO dye in strong optical field is “blown out” upon optical exitation of the azo chromophores. We show that γ recovers its initial value upon thermal back-isomerization of the dye to the trans form. This change in γ can be optically-cycled many times, leading to a novel all-optical light modulation phenomenon. The light polarization and molecular reorientation do not influence this all-optical switching of γ. We develop a theoretical model that considers a molecular density resulting from an intensity-dependent balance between two molecular species with different molecular third-order hyperpolarizabilities im...
Retinal anti-bipolar cell antibodies in a patient with paraneoplastic retinopathy and colon carcinoma

Abstract PURPOSE: To describe clinical, electrophysiologic, and immunologic features of a unique paraneoplastic retinopathy with characteristics of cancer-associated and melanoma-associated retinopathy. METHODS: Serial assessment of clinical visual function, electroretinography, and assays of anti-retinal antibodies. RESULTS: A 51-year-old woman with progressive visual glare for 1 year had normal visual acuity and color vision, paracentral scotomas, and a normal-appearing retina. Electroretinography revealed no responses of the right eye and attenuated responses of the left eye, especially those recorded under scotopic conditions. Anti-bipolar antibodies were detected. Subsequent evaluation uncovered adenocarcinoma of the colon. Several months after resection of the tumor and chemotherapy, no evidence existed of cancer or anti-bipolar cell antibodies, and electroretinography responses were markedly improved. CONCLUSION: The presence of anti-bipolar cell antibodies in a patient with retinal dysfunction is not specific of melanoma-associated retinopathy. Effective treatment of cancer may result in elimination of associated anti-retinal antibodies and improved retinal function.
An Examination of the Visual Element Used in Generic Message Advertisements: A Comparison of Goods and Services

The generic approach is the most frequently used creative message strategy currently used in advertising. Such an approach provides little opportunity for an ad to stand out and be noticed. The role of the visual element in creating effective generic advertisements was examined in this study using an experimental design to investigate the impact of four different visual strategies, within the context of a good and a service. Data were collected from 528 students. Results indicate that when advertisements use a generic creative message strategy, an emotional visual creates the strongest results. Further, data analysis indicated the visual element was a strong driver of attitude towards the ad, which in turn drove attitude towards the brand and purchase intentions. Differences were found between the advertising of a good and a service in terms of the role of the visual and the development of the brand.
Submarine hot springs and the origin of life

The popular hypothesis that life originally arose in hydrothermal vents at oceanic ridge crests is examined. It is shown that the high temperatures in the vents would not allow synthesis of organic compounds, but would decompose them, unless the exposure time at vent temperature was short. Even if the essential organic molecules were available in the hot hydrothermal waters, the subsequent steps of polymerization and the conversion of these polymers into the first organisms would not occur as the vent waters were quenched to the colder temperatures of the primitive oceans.
New Drug Approaches to the Treatment of Heart Failure in Infants and Children

General considerations in planning therapy of heart failure include identification of the cause, rapidity of onset, and the age of the patient. Neonates and young infants with acute onset heart failure frequently develop acidaemia, respiratory compromise or failure, and metabolic derangements such as hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia or hypomagnesaemia. These complications require early recognition and urgent therapy. The diagnosis of heart failure in neonates with ductal dependent congenital cardiac lesions (such as coarctation of the aorta, hypoplastic left heart syndrome or pulmonary valve atresia) allows the early institution of alprostadil (prostaglandin E1) therapy to maintain patency of the ductus arteriosus, which stabilises these infants before surgical therapy. Classic therapy for infants with heart failure due to a large left-to-right shunt consists of salt restriction, diuretics and digoxin. If this treatment is inadequate an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (e.g. captopril) is added to therapy. The question then arises whether captopril and diuretics should be the initial therapy and digoxin added if this treatment fails. Acute heart failure may occur in the immediate postoperative period after cardiac surgery or may complicate acute overwhelming infections. Therapy consists of volume loading, vasodilator or inotropic agents. Heart failure due to various forms of chronic dilated cardiomyopathy usually responds to treatment with salt restriction, diuretics, digoxin and captopril. Acute deterioration requires treatment with vasodilators and/or inotropic agents. Heart failure in fetuses may occur from sustained supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, and may respond to treatment of the mother with antiarrhythmic agents such as digoxin or procainamide.
Lyapunov based guidance of a mobile sensing agent for state estimation of a gaseous source in a 3D spatial domain

The release of a gaseous substance into the atmosphere can pose a significant risk, whether intentional or accidental. The tracking and localization of the tracer as it moves throughout the domain in real time can provide information on how to minimize subsequent harm. This work investigates the state estimation and real time detection of a continuous source in a 3D environment through a Lyapunov based gradient ascent approach. A set of simulations demonstrate the behavior of the proposed estimator and guidance scheme with different source trajectories. Real time computational results are attained through the use of state reduction and grid adaptation techniques.
A Composite Analysis of the Core of a Mature Hurricane

Abstract An unusually large quantity of aircraft data was obtained within the core of Hurricane Frederic (1979). These data are combined with Powell's surface observations of the same storm and composited. The data are sufficiently abundant to allow three-dimensional kinematic analyses of poorly documented parameters such as divergence and vertical velocity. Patterns of related but independently determined parameters such as radar reflectivities, cloud water concentrations and kinematically-derived vertical velocities agree well. Diagnostic budget analyses of sensible heat and angular momentum are computed for the storm inflow layer.The analysis provides a unique quantitative picture of the inflow layer of a mature, asymmetric hurricane. The depth of the inflow layer decreases with decreasing radius. As a result, surface drag coefficients derived from angular momentum budgets do not appear to increase with increasing wind speed. The sensible heat budget shows downward subgrid-scale heat fluxes near cloud ...
Immunogenicity Issues in the Development of Therapeutic Proteins

Immunogenicity is an important factor in determining the success of human therapeutic proteins and may not be adequately predicted based on the currently available animal models. There are many variables that affect a protein’s immunogenicity, including oxidation, aggregation, purification, storage, route and frequency of administration, and the immune status of the patient population.
Contact resistance evolution of highly cycled, lightly loaded micro-contacts

Reliable microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switches are critical for developing high performance radio frequency circuits like phase shifters. Engineers have attempted to improve reliability and lifecycle performance using novel contact metals, unique mechanical designs and packaging. Various test fixtures including: MEMS devices, atomic force microscopes (AFM) and nanoindentors have been used to collect resistance and contact force data. AFM and nanoindentor test fixtures allow direct contact force measurements but are severely limited by low resonance sensors, and therefore low data collection rates. This paper reports the contact resistance evolution results and fabrication of thin film, sputtered and evaporated gold, micro-contacts dynamically tested up to 3kHz. The upper contact support structure consists of a gold surface micromachined, fix-fix beam designed with sufficient restoring force to overcome adhesion. The hemisphere-upper and planar-lower contacts are mated with a calibrated, external load resulting in approximately 100μN of contact force and are cycled in excess of 10 6 times or until failure. Contact resistance is measured, in-situ, using a cross-bar configuration and the entire apparatus is isolated from external vibration and housed in an enclosure to minimize contamination due to ambient environment. Additionally, contact cycling and data collection are automated using a computer and LabVIEW. Results include contact resistance measurements of 6 and 8 μm radius contact bumps and lifetime testing up to 323.6 million cycles.
Interactions between estrogen, tamoxifen, octylphenol, and two polychlorinated biphenyls in murine splenocytes

Abstract Prior exposure of cultured murine splenocytes to 17β-estradiol (E) protects them from the membrane disrupting effects of the xenoestrogen 4-tert-octylphenol (OP). Using splenocytes isolated from male Balb/c mice, we tested whether (a) the xenoestrogen, 2′, 3′, 4′, 5′-tetrachloro-4-biphenylol (PCB-OH), or the polychlorinated biphenyl, 3, 3′, 4, 4′-tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 77), which displays both estrogenic and anti-estrogenic actions, would compromise the membrane integrity of the cells and (b) E or tamoxifen (TX), another ligand for the E receptor, would protect the membranes of cells exposed to the agents. We also examined possible interactions between OP, PCB-OH, and PCB 77 on the cells. Splenocytes were cultured for 24 hr. Concentrations of OP(10−5-10−9M), PCB-OH (10−6−10−16 M), or PCB 77 (10−8 −10−12 M) significantly compromised the membrane integrity of the cultured splenocytes in a dose response manner. Concentrations of E as high as 10−5 M or TX as high as 10−7 M were without effect. Incubation of splenocytes in medium containing E or TX at 10−7 M for 2 hr prior to the subsequent addition of either OP, PCB-OH or PCB 77 (final concentrations of 10−7, 10−7, or 10−8 M, respectively) blocked the membrane disrupting effects. Incubation of splenocytes in medium containing 10−7 M E starting 2 hr after the addition of OP or PCB 77 or incubation of splenocytes in medium containing 10−7 M TX starting 2 hr after the addition of OP or PCB-OH did not block the damaging effects of OP, PCB 77, or PCB-OH on the cell membranes. No interactions were observed when various combinations of OP, PCB-OH, or PCB 77 were used. These data suggest that: (a) TX acts like E in this system; (b) a prior response of splenocytes to E or TX can protect them from the potential cytotoxic effects of OP, PCB-OH, or PCB 77; and, (c) OP, PCB-OH, and PCB 77 were not additive in their actions.
Combinatorial volume preserving flows and taut foliations

A \( \pi_1 \)-injective closed surface in an orientable 3-manifold with a tangentially smooth, transversely C 0 taut foliation can be homotoped to an immersed surface which is either transverse to the foliation except at isolated saddle tangencies or mapped into a leaf.
Soluble immune complex disease associated with antigen heterogeneity an HLA related disorder

It is suggested that soluble immune complex diseases arising after infections may result from the liberation of partially synthesized bacterial polypeptide or viral nucleic acid antigens. These disrupted antigens will have heterogeneous molecular weights due to antigenic material which is incomplete as a result of premature termination of synthesis. Antigens of this type have been shown to result in significant soluble complex formation in vitro when reacted with antisera from many individuals. Interestingly, this was demonstrated using an antigen which has been instrumental in defining, in the mouse, immune response genes. These genes are known to be linked to genes which code for lymphocyte antigens. If particular immune response genes are linked to HLA types in humans, as is thought to be the case, there may be a large number of soluble immune complex diseases caused by infectious agents which may be HLA type associated.
ESR spectroscopic studies of alkylammonium, pyridinium and arsonium solid salts of C60−

The synthesis of a series of new solid salts of the monoanion of C60 using a variety of countercations, e.g., tetraalkylammonium, pyridinium and tetraalkylarsonium cations, and their initial characterization by ESR spectroscopy are reported. Both the size of the countercation and the solvent used in the synthesis of the C60 monoanion salts have been found to affect the ESR spectral characteristics of the resulting salts. For example, for countercations less than 10 A in diameter, the ESR spectral linewidths decrease as the countercation diameter decreases. In a similar manner, those salts believed to be solvent free display narrower ESR spectral linewidths and somewhat largerg-values than those in which solvent is believed to be incorporated in the crystal structure of the salt in question. Finally, ESR spectroscopy was used to show that exposure of the salts reported herein to ambient atmosphere leads to a decrease in the original ESR signal and an increase of a sharp (i.e., narrow line) signal which is superimposed on the original broad line.
The Mechanism of Adhesion of Phenol-Formaldehyde Resins to Cellulosic and Lignocellulosic Substrates

Abstract The mechanism of adhesion of phenolic resins to cellulosic and lignocellulosic fibers has been explored using a nonpolymerizable bromine-labelled benzyl alcohol as a model for the adhesive. Bromine analysis by neutron activation techniques is sufficiently sensitive to show that reaction occurs much more extensively with the lignified fibers. This is attributed to the formation of covalent linkages between the model adhesive and the guaiacyl units in the lignin. The excellent general performance of phenolic adhesives on cellulose and lignocellulosic substrates can therefore be in part ascribed to the existence of high enthalpy covalent chemical bonds between adherend and adhesive.
On the Mal'cev quotients of certain hyperbolic link groups

In the understanding of hyperbolic 3-manifolds, some of the important open questions revolve around the behaviour of a surface upon the passage to a finite covering space; for example one would like to know if it is possible to replace an immersion by an embedding, or a separating surface by a non-separating one.
Phase, phase, phase

I have been trying for some time now to write about phase. Sounds easy enough, but the more I think about it, the less easy it gets. I think I know why. Phase is one of those technical terms that has way too many meanings attached to it. Sheriff's dictionary gives four primary definitions of the word, and no less than 20 more derivative definitions.
In vivo plaque-forming cell suppression by methyl 20β-dihydroprednisolonate

Abstract Methyl 20β-dihydroprednisolonate, a new local antiinfiammatory steroid, and its ester hydrolysis product, 20β-dihydroprednisolonic acid, were evaluated for potential immunosuppressive actions as determined by the splenic plaque-forming cell response assay. The parent compound, prednisolone, was used as a comparative agent. All three corticosteroid agents, when administered intraperitoneally or subcutaneously by separate injections given at the same time as antigen, demonstrated significant dose-related suppression of this immunologie parameter. In a croton oil-induced inflammation test (ear challenge in mice), methyl 20β-dihydroprednisolonate demonstrated significant antiinflammatory effects, but only in the ear to which it was applied. The comparative drug, prednisolone, significantly reduced inflammation in the ear to which it was applied and in the contralateral ear as well. The methyl ester derivative demonstrated effective antiinflammatory activity when applied topically in the oxazolone delayed-type hypersensitivity test (ear challenge in mice). The results seen in the plaque-forming cell response are in contrast to the generally noted lack of systemic glucocorticoid actions of the steroid acid ester derivatives reported in other studies.