cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protean H pylori: perhaps “pernicious” too?

Comment on Hershko et al, page [1673][1] Could it be that microcytic iron deficiency anemia and macrocytic pernicious anemia have a common underlying etiology? In this issue of Blood Hershko and colleagues provocatively link some cases of both disorders to Helicobacter pylori –associated
Heat flow disturbed by periodic array of insulated interface cracks

Abstract The thermal effects of an interface crack between two dissimilar half-spaces is considered. The interface cracks are partially or fully insulated, and spaced in a periodic array. Using the complex variable technique, the temperature and fluxes are found in closed form, and the interactions between heat flows due to nearby cracks are determined.
Preprocholecystokinin mRNA in rat brain: regional expression includes thalamus.

Abstract The regional distribution of forebrain neurons expressing preprocholecystokinin (preproCCK) mRNA was examined using in situ and blot hybridization analysis. We observed a distribution of neurons containing preproCCK mRNA closely parallel to that reported for CCK immunoreactivity, with the exception of the thalamus. In this CCK-immunoreactive cell body-poor structure, we detected relatively abundant RNA:probe hybridization using both our techniques. Control experiments suggested that the hybridizing species in thalamus is authentic preproCCK mRNA. This suggests that there exist forebrain neurons expressing the CCK gene which have gone undetected in immunocytochemical studies.
Poly(diphenylsiloxy)arylazines. I. Synthesis and characterization

A detailed description is presented for the synthesis of poly(diphenylsiloxy)arylazines by the melt polymerization of hydroxyarylazines and bis(anilino)diphenylsilane. The resulting polymers have been characterized by elemental analysis, gel-permeation chromatography, vapor-phase osmometry, and UV-VIS-IR optical spectroscopy.
The genetics and management of inherited gynaecological cancer (including breast)

Abstract Most cancer is sporadic and not due to inherited cancer susceptibility genes. However, a small amount of cancer is inherited, including cancers of the breast, ovary and endometrium. This article reviews the genes involved in the inherited predisposition to these cancers, their mode of inheritance and the risk of cancer associated with each gene. The principle genes that are discussed are BRCA1, BRCA2 and the mismatch repair genes that include MLH1, MSH2 and MSH6. I review the ways in which high-risk families can be identified from their family history and the current place and limitations of genetic testing. An important issue in inherited cancer is how to manage the women who are identified as being at high risk of developing a particular cancer. Screening and prophylactic surgery are both involved in the management of this population and the article reviews the current recommendations for screening and surgery, including who to screen, how to screen and when to screen.
Should We Be Doing Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction in the Setting of Radiotherapy?

for this low utilization is multifactorial, and the decisionmaking process is complex. First and foremost is patient choice after an informed discussion with the treating physician. There is a great deal of concern on the part of surgeons that radiotherapy (RT) may be required postoperatively that could potentially compromise the reconstruction. This apprehension strongly influences the recommendations of the reconstructive surgeon. Implantbased reconstruction is the most common form of reconstruction, and its use has seen a marked rise in the last decade. 2 There is abundant data that radiation increases surgical morbidity after implant-based breast reconstruction. Barry and Kell in a meta-analysis of 11 studies found that patients receiving postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) after implant reconstruction had significantly increased risk of complications (odds ratio [OR] 4.2; 95 % CI 2.4–7.2) compared with those who did not receive radiation. 3 Autologous reconstruction was associated with less morbidity (OR 0.21; 95 % CI 0.1–0.4) in the setting of PMRT. The impact of radiation therapy on implant breast reconstruction from the patients’ perspective is less well
The gender difference on the Mental Rotations test is not due to performance factors.

Men score higher than women on the Mental Rotations test (MRT), and the magnitude of this gender difference is the largest of that on any spatial test. Goldstein, Haldane, and Mitchell (1990) reported finding that the gender difference on the MRT disappears when “performance factors” are controlled— specifically, when subjects are allowed sufficient time to attempt all items on the test or when a scoring procedure that controls for the number of items attempted is used. The present experiment also explored whether eliminating these performance factors results in a disappearance of the gender difference on the test. Male and female college students were allowed a short time period or unlimited time on the MRT. The tests were scored according to three different procedures. The results showed no evidence that the gender difference on the MRT was affected by the scoring method or the time limit. Regardless of the scoring procedure, men scored higher than women, and the magnitude of the gender difference persisted undiminished when subjects completed all items on the test. Thus there was no evidence that performance factors produced the gender difference on the MRT. These results are consistent with the results of other investigators who have attempted to replicate Goldstein et al. ’s findings.
Internship: A Recruitment and Selection Perspective

In this study, we examined internship as a recruitment and selection process. On the basis of impression management theory, we hypothesized that both organizations and interns make efforts to impress the other party during the internship if they intend to hire or be hired. Using longitudinal data collected at 3 points from 122 intern–supervisor dyads in the United States, we found that 60% of internships turned into job offers from the host organizations. Interns wishing to be hired were more likely to use self-promotion and ingratiation, which increased the likelihood of job offers. Organizations wishing to hire appeared to be more open to interns' creativity, which increased interns' application intentions. For interns who indicated prior to their internship that they were not interested in working in their host organizations after graduation, supervisory mentoring did not influence their subsequent intentions to apply for full-time employment.
A Linear Phase-Conjugation Imaging System

An imaging system based on phase conjugation is demonstrated for application in long-working-distance imaging. A liquid crystal device is adaptively controlled using a near-field feedback to achieve the conjugation of the incident phase.
Wave speeds of honeycomb sandwich structures: An experimental approach

In this study, the influence of different design parameters, such as core density, core material, and cell size on the wave speeds of honeycomb sandwich structures was experimentally analyzed. Bending and shear wave speeds were measured and related to the transmission loss performance for various material configurations. The shear modulus of the core showed maximum influence on the wave speeds of the samples, while cell size did not have a significant influence on the wave speeds or on the transmission loss. Skin material affected wave speeds only in the pure bending regime. Honeycomb sandwich structures with a subsonic core and reduced wave speed showed increased transmission loss compared to samples without a subsonic core.
Alternative Drugs of Abuse

The incidence of drug abuse with alternative agents is increasing. The term "alternative drugs of abuse" is a catch-all term for abused chemicals that do not fit into one of the classic categories of drugs of abuse. The most common age group abusing these agents range from 17 to 25 years old and are often associated with group settings. Due to their diverse pharmacological nature, legislative efforts to classify these chemicals as a schedule I drug have lagged behind the development of new alternative agents. The potential reason for abuse of these agents is their hallucinogenic, dissociative, stimulant, anti-muscarinic, or sedative properties. Some of these drugs are easily obtainable such as Datura stramonium (Jimson Weed) or Lophophora williamsii (Peyote) because they are natural plants indigenous to certain regions. The diverse pharmacology and clinical effects of these agents are so broad that they do not produce a universal constellation of signs and symptoms. Detailed physical exams are essential for identifying clues leading one to suspect an alternative drug of abuse. Testing for the presence of these agents is often limited, and even when available, the results do not return in a timely fashion. Intoxications from these agents pose unique challenges for health care providers. Physician knowledge of the physiological effects of these alternative agents and the local patterns of drug of abuse are important for the accurate diagnosis and optimal care of poisoned patients. This review summarizes the current knowledge of alternative drugs of abuse and highlights their clinical presentations.
Hepatitis C: a bitter harvest.

Two articles in this issue reiterate that the hepatitis C problem involves more than meets the eye. McGuire and colleagues describe the frequency of glomerulonephritis in patients with hepatitis C–...
Protecting our daughters: Intersection of race, class and gender in African American mothers' socialization of their daughters' heterosexuality

Using a framework of intersectionality and Black feminist thought, this paper provides a conceptual exploration of the socialization process among African American mothers and daughters, with special attention given to the ways in which African American girls become aware of their mother’s attitudes and beliefs concerning romantic relationships. Edmondson Bell, E. L., Nkomo, S. M. (1998). Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 29, 285–295 labeled this process armoring. I propose a model of sexual risk for low income African American girls in which the armoring process serves as the focal point. I then provide a conceptual discussion, comparing my proposed model to current social cognitive models in its ability to comprehensively explain the correlates and predictors of sexual behavior among this population. Implications concerning sexual risk prevention efforts are also discussed.
Testing for New Better than Used in Expectation with Incomplete Data

Abstract This article proposes a test for the problem of testing that a life distribution is an exponential distribution against the alternative that it is new better than used in expectation, not exponential, on the basis of randomly right censored data. The test statistic is an analog of the “total time on test” test statistic.
Exfoliative cytology of the intubated larynx in children.

The study uses exfoliative cytology to document injury to the respiratory epithelium following endotracheal intubation in a series of 70 children. Ciliated columnar epithelial cells occurring in clumps or sheets were conspicuous following extubation as compared with smears obtained in a similar way preceding intubation. This was interpreted as evidence of unintentional trauma and indicates the vulnerability of respiratory epithelium.
Educational treasures in Radiology: Annotate - creating interactive teaching files.

This article focuses on Annotate (www.annotate.org) – an online program for image editing and creation of interactive teaching files. This program is free to use, does not need any installation or plugin and can be used from any workstation with internet access. Multiple tools and preferences allow a customization of the program to the user needs.
Structural basis of PIP2 activation of the classical inward rectifier K+ channel Kir2.2.

The regulation of ion channel activity by specific lipid molecules is widely recognized as an integral component of electrical signalling in cells. In particular, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)), a minor yet dynamic phospholipid component of cell membranes, is known to regulate many different ion channels. PIP(2) is the primary agonist for classical inward rectifier (Kir2) channels, through which this lipid can regulate a cell's resting membrane potential. However, the molecular mechanism by which PIP(2) exerts its action is unknown. Here we present the X-ray crystal structure of a Kir2.2 channel in complex with a short-chain (dioctanoyl) derivative of PIP(2). We found that PIP(2) binds at an interface between the transmembrane domain (TMD) and the cytoplasmic domain (CTD). The PIP(2)-binding site consists of a conserved non-specific phospholipid-binding region in the TMD and a specific phosphatidylinositol-binding region in the CTD. On PIP(2) binding, a flexible expansion linker contracts to a compact helical structure, the CTD translates 6 A and becomes tethered to the TMD and the inner helix gate begins to open. In contrast, the small anionic lipid dioctanoyl glycerol pyrophosphatidic acid (PPA) also binds to the non-specific TMD region, but not to the specific phosphatidylinositol region, and thus fails to engage the CTD or open the channel. Our results show how PIP(2) can control the resting membrane potential through a specific ion-channel-receptor-ligand interaction that brings about a large conformational change, analogous to neurotransmitter activation of ion channels at synapses.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm presenting as retroperitoneal fibrosis

A case of abdominal aortic aneurysm which presented as retroperitoneal fibrosis followed by fatal disseminated intravascular coagulation is reported. A diagnostic aortogram should be considered in all cases of apparent idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis.
Correlation of rhombic distortion of the type 1 copper site of M98Q amicyanin with increased electron transfer reorganization energy.

Mutation of the axial Met ligand of the type 1 copper site of amicyanin to Ala or Gln yielded M98A amicyanin, which exhibits typical axial type 1 ligation geometry but with a water molecule providing the axial ligand, and M98Q amicyanin, which exhibits significant rhombic distortion of the type 1 site (Carrell, C. J., Ma, J. K., Antholine, W. E., Hosler, J. P., Mathews, F. S., and Davidson, V. L. (2007) Biochemistry 46, 1900−1912). Despite the change of the axial ligand, the M98Q and M98A mutations had little effect on the redox potential of copper. The true electron transfer (ET) reactions from O-quinol methylamine dehydrogenase to oxidized native and mutant amicyanins revealed that the M98A mutation had little effect on kET, but the M98Q mutation reduced kET 45-fold. Thermodynamic analysis of the latter showed that the decrease in kET was due to an increase of 0.4 eV in the reorganization energy (λ) associated with the ET reaction to M98Q amicyanin. No change in the experimentally determined electronic ...
Rapid assay for determination of water soluble quaternary ammonium compounds

The periodide method for quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) analysis was modified to permit rapid screening of numerous replicate plant samples. This procedure provides a valuable tool for assessing salt tolerance. Aqueous plant extracts were used without further purification. Total QAC were precipitated as the periodide complexes at low pH. In neutral media, only choline periodide crystallized; other major QAC (e.g. glycinebetaine) were soluble at pH 6.8–7.0 QAC concentration was then determined spectrophotometrically.
Profound thrombocytopenia and survival of hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients without clinically significant bleeding, using prophylactic platelet transfusion triggers of 10 x 10(9) or 20 x 10(9) per L.

BACKGROUND A trigger of 10 x 10(9) per L for prophylactic platelet (PLT) transfusions is generally recommended for stable thrombocytopenic patients who receive chemotherapy, based on studies showing similar incidence, severity, and fatality of bleeding compared with the 20 x 10(9) per L trigger. The outcome of thrombocytopenic nonbleeding patients has not been well described. This retrospective analysis evaluates thrombocytopenia and survival of 381 hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients without clinically significant bleeding, with 10 x 10(9) and 20 x 10(9) per L prophylactic triggers. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 170 patients who received prophylactic PLT transfusions at 20 x 10(9) per L (1997-1998, SP1) and 211 patients who had prophylaxis at 10 x 10(9) per L (1999-2001, SP2) were identified as nonbleeding patients. PLT counts and clinical complications were assessed within 100 days from HSCT. RESULTS PLT counts less than or equal to 10 x 10(9) per L were found in 69.2 percent of patients in SP2 and 38.3 percent in SP1 (p < 0.001). Profound thrombocytopenia (4+ PLT counts <or=10 x 10(9)/L) was found in 19.0 percent of patients in SP2 and 7.0 percent in SP1 (p = 0.001). Patients with profound thrombocytopenia had significantly increased early mortality (odds ratio [OR], 3.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25-8.07) and significantly reduced overall survival (hazard ratio [HR], 1.95; 95% CI, 1.28-2.97) compared to patients with 0 to 3 PLT counts less than or equal to 10 x 10(9) per L. The association of profound thrombocytopenia with early mortality was more notable in SP2. CONCLUSION The 10 x 10(9) per L transfusion trigger is associated with significantly greater exposure to low PLT counts. Nonbleeding patients with profound thrombocytopenia were at significantly greater risk of dying compared with nonthrombocytopenic patients. These results suggest that safety of the 10 x 10(9) per L trigger should be more thoroughly evaluated.
Interpreting mixed signals: the cell's cytokine conundrum

Cytokines are essential for the activation, differentiation and control of the immune system. Many cytokines, alone or in combination with other cytokines, have multiple functions and can often act on many different cell types with distinct developmental or functional consequences. Despite the myriad of cytokines and cytokine receptors, there are relatively few signaling molecules that transduce these diverse cytokine signals. In this review, we will discuss the potential mechanisms used by cytokines to mediate distinct cellular outcomes from a small number of signaling molecules. Understanding this paradigm in cytokine signaling can aid in the development of potential therapeutic approaches involving cytokine targeting or use.
The extraction of uranyl nitrate by tributyl phosphate in the presence of some nitrate salting-out agents

The salting-out effect of some nitrates on the extraction of uranyl nitrate by TBP was investigated. The percentage of uranyl nitrate extracted was determined at various nitric acid concentrations in the presence of NH/sub 4/NO/ sub 3/, LiNO/sub 3/, NaNO/sub 3/, KN0/sub 3/, Cu(NO/sub 3/)/sub 2/,Mg(NO/sub 3/)/ sub 2/, Ca(NO/sub 3/)/sub 2/, Zn(NO i)/sub 2/, Al(NO/sub 3/)/sub 3/, and Fe(NO/sub 3/)/sub 3/. It was found that the presence of nitrate salting-out agents favors the extraction of uranyl nitrate and that the effects are most remarkable at low acidities. (M.C.G.)
Genetic influence on cigarette-induced cardiovascular disease☆

Cigarette smoking as an addictive habit has accompanied human beings for more than 4 centuries. It is also one of the most potent and prevalent environmental health risks human beings are exposed to, and it is responsible for more than 1000 deaths each day in the United States. With recent research progress, it becomes clear that cigarette smoking can cause almost all major diseases prevalent today, such as cancer or heart disease. These detrimental effects are not only present in active smokers who choose the risk, but also to innocent bystanders, as passive smokers, who are exposed to cigarettes not-by-choice. While the cigarette-induced harm to human health is indiscriminate and severe, the degree of damage also varies from individual to individual. This intersubject variability in cigarette-induced pathologies is partly mediated by genetic variants of genes that may participate in detoxification process, eg, cytochrome P450 (CYP), cellular susceptibility to toxins, such as p53, or disease development. Through population studies, we have learned that certain CYP1A1 variants, such as Mspl polymorphism, may render the carriers more susceptible to cigarette-induced lung cancer or severe coronary atherosclerosis. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase intron 4 rare allele homozygotes are more likely to have myocardial infarction if they also smoke. In vitro experimental approach has further demonstrated that cigarettes may specifically regulate these genes in genotype-dependent fashion. While we still know little about genetic basis and molecular pathways for cigarette-induced pathological changes, understanding these mechanisms will be of great value in designing strategies to further reduce smoking in targeted populations, and to implement more effective measures in prevention and treatment of cigarette-induced diseases.
Bronchial airway anastomotic complications after pediatric lung transplantation: Incidence, cause, management, and outcome

Objective Airway complications are a recognized surgical complication and an important source of morbidity after adult lung transplantation. Little is known about these complications after pediatric lung transplantation. Methods Data of pediatric lung transplants performed between January 1990 and December 2002 in a single pediatric institution were reviewed retrospectively. Results A total of 214 patients, with a mean age of 9.8 ± 6.1 years (range 0.01-19.7 years), underwent 239 lung transplants: 231 bilateral and 8 single. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years. Forty-two airway complications requiring interventions (stenosis = 36; dehiscence=4; malacia=2) developed in 30 recipients (complication rate: 9% of 470 bronchial anastomoses at risk). There were airway complications in 29 bilateral lung transplants (13%) and 1 single lung transplant (13%). Mean time to diagnosis was 51 ± 27 days (median: 53, range 1-96 days), and diagnoses were made in 90% of patients within the first 3 months after transplantation. Preoperative Pseudomonas cepacia , postoperative fungal lung infection, and days on mechanical ventilator were found to be significant risk factors on multivariate analysis ( P = .002, P = .013 and P = .003, respectively). Treatment included rigid bronchoscopic dilatation in 17 patients, balloon dilatation in 13 patients, and stent placement in 12 patients. Other treatments consisted of debridement, fibrin glue application, chest tube placement, and pneumonectomy followed by retransplantation. No patients died as a direct result of airway complications. There was no significant difference in the incidence of bronchiolitis obliterans or overall survival in comparison with patients who did not have airway complications. Conclusions Airway complications are a significant cause of morbidity after pediatric lung transplantation. The majority are successfully treated, and patient outcomes are not adversely affected.
Role functioning is associated with survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Prior studies assessing quality of life (QOL) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) primarily included patients with preserved liver function and/or early HCC, leading to overestimation of QOL. Our study’s aim was to evaluate the association of QOL with survival among a cohort of cirrhotic patients with HCC that was diverse with respect to liver function and tumor stage. We conducted a prospective cohort study among cirrhotic patients with HCC from a large urban safety-net hospital between April 2011 and September 2013. Patients completed two self-administered surveys, the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-HCC18, prior to the treatment. We used generalized linear models to identify correlates of QOL. Survival curves were generated using Kaplan–Meier analysis and compared using log rank test to determine whether QOL is associated with survival. A total of 130 treatment-naive patients completed both surveys. Patients reported high cognitive and social function (median scores 67) but poor global QOL (median score 50) and poor role function (median score 50). QOL was associated with cirrhosis-related (p = 0.02) and tumor-related (p = 0.02) components of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) tumor stage. QOL was associated with survival on univariate analysis (HR 0.37, 95 % CI 0.16–0.85) but became nonsignificant (HR 0.82, 95 % CI 0.37–1.80) after adjusting for BCLC stage and treatment. Role functioning was significantly associated with survival (HR 0.40, 95 % CI 0.20–0.81), after adjusting for Caucasian race (HR 0.31, 95 % CI 0.16–0.59), BCLC stage (HR 1.51, 95 % CI 0.21–1.89), and treatment (HR 0.57, 95 % CI 0.33–0.97). Role function has prognostic significance and is important to assess in patients with HCC.
Evaluating models of memory allocation

Because dynamic memory management is an important part of a large class of computer programs, high-performance algorithms for dynamic memory management have been and will continue to be of considerable interest. The goal of this research is to explore the size and accuracy of synthetic models of program allocation behavior. These models, if accurate enough, proved an attractive alternative to algorithm evaluation based on trace-driven simulation using actual traces. Based on our analysis, we conclude that even relatively simple synthetic models can effectively emulate the allocation behavior of well-behaved programs. However, even the most complex models we investigate can only roughly approximate the behavior of more complex programs and/or allocation policies. While synthetic models have been used to evaluate the performance of dynamic memory management algorithms, our results show that these models can be inaccurate and must be used with care. Given current trends toward more complex applications and allocation algorithms, the synthetic models we investigate are likely to be even less accurate in the future.
Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy: combined tools for monitoring the process of patterning and layer-by-layer assembly of synthetic and biological materials.

Abstract We have employed time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF SIMS), fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to monitor the immobilization of biotinylated shell-crosslinked nanoparticles (SCKs) on biotin/streptavidin-functionalized, UV-photopatterned self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). TOF SIMS and fluorescence microscopy images showed that the streptavidin was immobilized primarily in the biotin-functionalized SAM areas. Biotinylated SCKs underwent both streptavidin–biotin recognition and electrostatic interactions to the underlying substrate. Upon adsorption, the biotinylated SCKs deformed significantly; their cross-sectional diameter increased by ∼36% from 65 ± 7 nm to 90 ± 2 nm. Using the SCK contact area, we estimate that one SCK was bound between one and five streptavidin proteins. These data suggest that functionalized SCKs can be employed as biomolecule mimics to investigate the factors that control biomolecule adsorption on functionalized surfaces.
Development of a hazardous material compatibility storage guideline and tool

A hazardous material compatibility storage guideline and an abbreviated hazardous material compatibility storage tool, both consistent with center for chemical process safety (CCPS) guidance for managing chemical reactivity hazards, were developed for sites storing reactive materials. The hazardous material compatibility storage tool assists personnel in developing and documenting appropriate storage strategies. The tool identifies potential hazardous combinations of materials for material handlers and suggests storage strategies that minimize the risk of such combinations. This tool is formatted as a template and is adaptable to address storage in warehouses, laboratories, and production buildings, where drum quantities of materials are stored. Development of the tool included trials at various facilities storing reactive materials. These trials included analyzing current storage strategies at these locations determining suggested strategies based on a hazardous materials compatibility storage matrix referencing a small quantity exemption table finalizing appropriate strategies based on suggested strategies and the overall risk (i.e., literature searches, laboratory data, engineering and administrative controls) conducting literature searches and laboratory tests when Material Safety Data Sheets information was insufficient to determine storage strategies. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2007.
A fuel-based inventory of motor vehicle exhaust emissions in the Los Angeles area during summer 1997

Abstract A fuel-based approach was used to estimate stabilized exhaust carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in California's South Coast Air Basin (SoCAB). Fleet-average emission factors of 80±7 g l−1 CO and 9.3±1.5 g l−1 VOC were calculated from more than 60,000 infrared remote sensor measurements collected at 35 sites throughout the greater Los Angeles area during summer 1997. Fuel use by SoCAB cars and light/medium-duty trucks was estimated to be 5.9±0.3×107 l day−1 based on statewide gasoline sales during summer 1997. Fuel-based estimates of 4700±500 metric tons day−1 CO and 550±90 metric tons day−1 VOC are higher than stabilized exhaust emissions estimates of California's MVEI 7G model by factors of 2.4±0.2 for CO and 3.5±0.6 for VOC. According to fuel-based inventory estimates, stabilized CO emissions in 1997 were lower by 20% than emissions during summer 1991. Fuel use increased by 8% during this period while the CO emission factor decreased by 26%. The relationship between income level and vehicle emissions was examined using census data resolved to the zip code level. On average, CO and VOC emission factors of vehicles registered in the lowest income areas were double those of vehicles registered in the highest income areas. Differences in vehicle emissions between neighborhoods were due in part to differences in the prevalence of older vehicles, but also resulted because vehicles of the same age had higher emissions in lower-income areas.
Renormalization and quantum effects in a two-dimensional planar model

Abstract We examine the influence of the charging energy on the vortex unbinding transition in two-dimensional arrays of Josephson junctions. The fluctuations of the phase about the time-dependent vortex solutions are treated within the self-consistent harmonic approximation. A new relation between the renormalized vortex unbinding temperature T c and the charging energy U is derived. We predict a continuous drop of T c at a critical value of U well below the spurious first order transition of the rigidity constant. The results are interpreted as a quantum assisted dissociation of vortex pairs.
Varieties and Vector Measures

A locally convex space L has the property ℰ if equicontinuous subsets of L* are weak-star sequentially compact. (L*, σ(L*, L)) is a MAZUR space if given F ∈ L** with F weak-star sequentially continuous then F∈ L. If L is complete with the property ∈, then (L*, σ (L*, L)) is a MAZUR space. The class of locally convex spaces with the property ℰ forms a variety ℰ and this variety is generated by the BANACH spaces it contains. Weakly compactly generated locally convex spaces and SCHWARTZ spaces belong to ℰ. MAZUR spaces are used to give a characterization of GROTHENDIECK BANACH spaces. The last section contains a characterization of the variety generated by the reflexive BANACH spaces.
Effects of Monoacylglycerols on the Cold Flow Properties of Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a renewable alternative fuel made from plant oils and animal fats that may be burned in a compression–ignition (diesel) engine. It is composed of mono-alkyl fatty acid esters made from plant oils or animal fats mainly by transesterification with methanol or ethanol. This process leaves behind small concentrations of minor constituents including monoacylglycerols (MAG). Saturated MAG have low solubility in biodiesel and may form solid residues during storage in cold weather. Soybean oil-fatty acid methyl esters (SME) were mixed with up to 1.0 mass% MAG to evaluate the effects on cloud point (CP), freezing point (FP), cold filter plugging point (CFPP), and wax appearance point (WAP). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed that MAG with only 27.6 mass% total long chain (C16–C18) saturated fatty acid content had melting transitions between 54 and 59.0 °C. Furthermore, DSC analysis indicated that pure monoolein may be problematic with respect to melting transitions between 25.4 and 33.4 °C. Solubility data for SME–MAG mixtures indicated a broad transition temperature range from solid at low temperature to liquid at temperatures exceeding 60 °C. Increasing the added MAG content from 0.10 to 1.0 mass% increased both CP and FP. Cold filter plugging point demonstrated higher sensitivity than CP or FP at added MAG content below 0.10 mass%, though it was not affected by increasing MAG concentration above 0.50 mass%. Wax appearance point showed no effects until added MAG content exceeded 0.25 mass%. Kinematic viscosity measured at 5 °C similarly showed no effects until added MAG concentration exceeded 0.20 mass%. Specific gravity at 15.6 °C and refractive index at 25 °C were not greatly affected by added MAG except at concentrations greater than 0.10 mass%.
Epitaxial growth of the metastable phase ytterbium monoxide on gallium nitride surfaces

Abstract Molecular beam deposition systems allow for unparalleled control of film composition and structure. This article addresses the capacity for controlling metal and oxidant fluxes in the Yb/O 2 system to access the metastable phase ytterbium monoxide (YbO). Experiments exploring the growth of polycrystalline YbO x films by molecular beam deposition demonstrate that a 2:1 molar ratio of Yb:O 2 fluxes is necessary to achieve preferential growth of the divalent oxide. Applying similar deposition conditions to a (0 0 1) GaN surface leads to the growth of epitaxial (1 1 1) YbO films. Similar to other rocksalt oxides grown on GaN surfaces, YbO films display a 3D growth mechanism that leads to a grainy morphology with crystallites of 50 nm lateral dimensions. Rocking curves in ω and φ have full-width half-maximum values of 1.77° and 4.1°, respectively; further improvements in crystal quality appear to be limited by the thermal stability of the YbO phase.
Time-resolved infrared studies of triplet 1,3-cyclopentanediyl

Triplet-sensitized photolysis of 2,3-diazabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene (1) in argon- or oxygen- saturated acetonitrile-d3 solutions results in the formation of bicyclo[2.1.0]pentane (3), a ring closure product arising from an intermediate 1,3-cyclopentanediyl triplet biradical (2). Time-resolved infrared (TRIR) spectroscopy was used to monitor the kinetics of bicyclopentane 3 production. This analysis provides a measurement of the triplet biradical lifetime and an estimate of the bimolecular reaction rate between biradical 2 and oxygen, both in good agreement with previous investigations. Our studies also indicate that certain IR bands due to 3 in the C–H stretching region overlap with corresponding bands in biradical 2. This interpretation is supported by computational investigations.Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of relevance criteria across stages of document evaluation: on the complementarity of experimental and naturalistic studies

This paper provides an overview of empirical investigations of people's use of relevance criteria. A laboratory experiment and a naturalistic study were conducted to explore the patterns of movement in use of relevance criteria during real-time document evaluation processes. The expectation was that the subjects would apply different frames of reference for relevance decision making as they moved from one stage of the document evaluation to another, and that change would occur not only for particular criteria but also for classes of criteria. The examination of such change was performed at two levels: a micro-level analysis, centering on the use of individual criteria, and a macro-level analysis, concentrating on the use of criteria classes. General results of the two studies are included in this paper. Both projects provided information on criteria patterns, which challenge the conventional meaning-based approach to criteria classification. Building on these findings, a classification scheme and criteria taxonomy that may enable generalization of criteria across different contexts is proposed.
Mexican Mothers’ English Proficiency and Children's School Readiness: Mediation Through Home Literacy Involvement

Research Findings: Home literacy involvement (e.g., shared book reading) has been linked to enhanced cognitive development and school readiness during early childhood. Furthermore, precursory reading and math skills are key predictors of high school achievement. This study examined prospective relations between Mexican mothers’ English proficiency, their home literacy involvement, and their children's school readiness (i.e., preschool reading and math scores). A large, nationally representative sample of preschool-age Mexican American children (N = 826) was used to test a theoretically derived path analysis that demonstrated that mother-reported home literacy involvement mediated the relation between mother-reported English proficiency and children's reading achievement, but not math. Results were evident even after key family and child characteristics were controlled. Practice or Policy: Findings suggest that Mexican American children's early education and development may be enriched by family literacy p...
Current advances in the phylogenetic reconstruction of metazoan evolution. A new paradigm for the Cambrian explosion

The study of metazoan evolution has fascinated biologists for centuries, and it will certainly keep doing so. Recent interest on the origin of metazoan body plans, early metazoan evolution, genetic mechanisms generating disparity and diversity, molecular clock information, paleontology, and biogeochemistry is contributing to a better understanding of the current phyletic diversity. Unfortunately, the pattern of the metazoan tree of life still shows some important gaps in knowledge. It is the aim of this article to review some of the most important issues related to the inference of the metazoan tree, and point towards possible ways of solving certain obscure aspects in the history of animal evolution. A new hypothesis of the metazoan diversification during the Cambrian explosion is proposed by synthesizing ideas from phylogenetics, molecular evolution, paleontology, and developmental biology.
Ambulatory Management of Patients with Sleep Apnea: Is There a Place for Portable Monitor Testing?

Portable monitor testing is being increasingly used as an alternative strategy for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Portable monitors have become progressively sophisticated but lack standardization. Recent studies comparing clinical outcomes of ambulatory management pathways using portable monitor testing support their use in patients with a high pretest probability for obstructive sleep apnea. Whether ambulatory management is cost-effective and will improve patient access to diagnosis and treatment requires further investigation.
Clathrates — An exploration of the chemistry of caged compounds

Clathrate are host-guest complexes. They are discussed with specific examples from different branches of chemistry. Clathrates are formed in different environments, but ultimately yield cage type of structures. Depending on the type of host-guest molecules, clathrates of different dimensions and properties are formed.
Design of Sequential Experiments for Contingent Valuation Studies

Abstract Sequential experimentation is recommended as an alternative to the usual one- or two-shot approach to contingent valuation surveys. The sequential C-optimal approach is introduced and developed, and it is compared to the established parametric and non-parametric sequential procedures. It is shown to be an improvement in terms of statistical precision in a finite sample, over the standard sequential procedures.
A Sensor-Independent Gust Hazard Metric

A procedure for calculating an intuitive hazard metric for gust effects on airplanes is described. The hazard metric is for use by pilots and is intended to replace subjective pilot reports (PIREPs) of the turbulence level. The hazard metric is composed of three numbers: the first describes the average airplane response to the turbulence, the second describes the positive peak airplane response to the gusts, and the third describes the negative peak airplane response to the gusts. The hazard metric is derived from any time history of vertical gust measurements and is thus independent of the sensor making the gust measurements. The metric is demonstrated for one simulated airplane encountering different types of gusts including those derived from flight data recorder measurements of actual accidents. The simulated airplane responses to the gusts compare favorably with the hazard metric.
Observation of an 8− level in 20Ne☆

Abstract A state in 20Ne at 15.62 MeV excitation has been found. From the systematics of its cross section, it appears to be an unnatural parity state and may be the spin 8 member of the Kπ = 2− rotational band of (82) SU3 symmetry.
Characterizing cognitive aging of working memory and executive function in animal models.

Executive functions supported by prefrontal cortical systems provide essential control and planning mechanisms to guide goal-directed behavior. As such, age-related alterations in executive functions can mediate profound and widespread deficits on a diverse array of neurocognitive processes. Many of the critical neuroanatomical and functional characteristics of prefrontal cortex are preserved in rodents, allowing for meaningful cross-species comparisons relevant to the study of cognitive aging. In particular, as rodents lend themselves to genetic, cellular and biochemical approaches, rodent models of executive function stand to significantly contribute to our understanding of the critical neurobiological mechanisms that mediate decline of executive processes across the lifespan. Moreover, rodent analogues of executive functions that decline in human aging represent an essential component of a targeted, rational approach for developing and testing effective treatment and prevention therapies for age-related cognitive decline. This paper reviews behavioral approaches used to study executive function in rodents, with a focus on those assays that share a foundation in the psychological and neuroanatomical constructs important for human aging. A particular emphasis is placed on behavioral approaches used to assess working memory and cognitive flexibility, which are sensitive to decline with age across species and for which strong rodent models currently exist. In addition, other approaches in rodent behavior that have potential for providing analogues to functions that reliably decline to human aging (e.g., information processing speed) are discussed.
The impact of comorbid cannabis use disorders on the clinical presentation of social anxiety disorder.

Previous research has examined the relationship between social anxiety disorder (SAD) and substance use disorders. Cannabis use disorders (CUDs) are becoming increasingly problematic within the population of individuals with SAD, yet the nature of this comorbidity remains largely unexamined. The aim of the current study from the Rhode Island Methods to Improve Diagnostic Assessment and Services (MIDAS) project was to examine differences between outpatients with SAD with versus without comorbid CUDs. The current study included 873 outpatients with a current diagnosis of SAD. Patients with SAD and comorbid CUDs (n = 173) were then compared to those with SAD without CUDs (n = 700) on demographic and clinical characteristics. Compared to patients without the comorbidity, patients with comorbid SAD and CUDs were more likely to have a lifetime diagnosis of PTSD and specific phobia and lifetime substance use disorders (including alcohol). SAD patients with comorbid CUDs were also more likely to report better physical health, and fewer limitations related to their physical health. These analyses remained significant after controlling for gender, the presence of other substance use disorders, mood disorders, and other anxiety disorders. Findings of this study suggest that there may be a unique relationship between SAD and CUDs that can potentially impact the clinical presentation of individuals with SAD. Future research is needed to examine the impact of this comorbidity in other patient populations.
Tapered optical fibers designed for surface plasmon resonance phase matching.

Combining a modified two-step chemical etch method with equations to predict etch parameters and photon-plasmon phase-matching resulted in single-mode tapered optical fibers (TOFs) to optimize electromagnetic field enhancement. The phase-matching equation was used to identify the angle of incidence near the TOF cutoff radius at which surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is maximized. The axisymmetric Young−Laplace equation was used to predict the angle of incidence from the fabrication of a TOF via chemical etching. An optimal cone angle of 20.0°, angles of incidence averaging (81.6 ± 1.9)°, and tip diameters of (80.0 ± 14.1) nm were achieved through a two-step etching process. These TOF characteristics maximize SPR excitation and field enhancement. The refractive index for optimized SPR excitation in the fabricated TOFs at a wavelength of 650 nm was found to be 1.343.
Incorporation of γ-surface to phase field model of dislocations: simulating dislocation dissociation in fcc crystals

Abstract Phase field method has become an attractive alternative to study dislocations of arbitrary configurations. Recently the model has been generalized for dislocation nodal reactions and network formation. Within the same framework, we study dissociation of various dislocation configurations into Shockley partials by incorporating directly γ-surface data from ab initio calculations into the crystalline energy of the phase field model. The model is first validated against the generalized P–N model for dissociation of straight edge and screw dislocations in Al and Pd using the same sets of γ-surface data and elastic constants. Then dissociation of dislocation nodes and a bent dislocation gliding on two intersecting {1 1 1} planes are investigated. The former leads to either an extended or a contracted node, depending on the directions of the sense vectors of the unit dislocations that join the node, while the latter leads to a stair-rod dislocation at the intersection of the two planes. With reliable ab initio γ-surface data being calculated routinely by first principles, the extended phase field model could provide a flexible and realistic treatment of dissociation of dislocations of arbitrary configuration, interactions among extended dislocations, and creation and annihilation of various planar faults.