cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of Equatorial Waves on the Genesis of Super Typhoon Haiyan (2013)

AbstractThe influence of equatorial wave disturbances on the genesis of Super Typhoon Haiyan (2013) is investigated through spectral, composite, and ensemble sensitivity analysis of various observational datasets in combination with predictions from an operational ensemble. Under the favorable large-scale environmental conditions of the Asian monsoon combined with the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO), the incipient Haiyan develops from a cyclonic disturbance that originates from a train of westward-propagating mixed Rossby–gravity (MRG) waves. Haiyan eventually develops in the monsoon trough region at the leading edge of the moist MJO phase that has strong low-level convergence, high moisture content, and weak shear, along with high sea surface temperature. These favorable environmental conditions promote the intensification of deep moist convection that facilitates the development of the cyclonic disturbance from an MRG wave into a tropical depression, which later intensifies rapidly into Super Typhoon Ha...
Who will guard the guardians of neuroscience

Brain science is big. With the help of politicians, neuroscientists and the media, the brain has captured the public imagination. In late 2006 and early 2007, readers of The New York Times learned the difference between a “tightwad's brain” and a “spendthrift's brain” or how our “neurological circuits stop [us] from buying a George Foreman grill but not a Discovery Channel colour‐changing mood clock” (Tierney, 2007); the link between addictive behaviour and a part of the brain known as the insula (Carey, 2007); and how “mirror neurons”—a sort of “neural WiFi” that alters our physiology by tracking the emotional flow, movement and intentions of the people around us—can promote healing (Goleman, 2006). The brain is now seen as the seat of our being, the centre of the self, our secular soul, the source of our conscience and our consciousness. Bioethicists have monitored this interest in the brain and are now parsing important ethical questions brought about by neuroscience. What are the implications of neuroscience for notions of the self, agency and responsibility? How will/should neuroscience influence social policy? How will/should neuroscience be used in clinical settings? How will/should the findings of neuroscience be communicated to the public? (Illes & Bird, 2006; Marcus, 2002). Ethical concerns with aspects of neuroscience together with cultural ideas about the special importance of the brain—Roskies (2002) calls it “neuroessentialism”—have given us a new subspecialty in bioethics: neuroethics. Now complete with its own professional association and journal, it joins two other fledgling specialty fields in bioethics: genethics and nanoethics. This partitioning into smaller, more focused specialties, although sociologically predictable, is not pleasing to all bioethicists. Several believe that bioethics—itself a relatively new profession—is not yet ready for a subdivision: “What remains to be demonstrated is the validity of [the] claim that advances …
The effect of fluctuating temperature and humidity on the adult life table characteristics of five strains of Aedes aegypti.

Life tables were generated for adults of 5 geographic strains of Aedes aegypti reared in either a fluctuating temperature and humidity regime or a constant regime of temperature and humidity. Significant differences could be shown among strains for the mean lifetimes of both sexes, net reproductive rates and intrinsic rates of increase. However, life table characteristics did not differ among the cohorts reared in the 2 environments.
On the flow field of Newtonian liquids in the truncated-cone and plate rheometer

The state of flow for a Newtonian liquid between a truncated cone and plate (TCP) in relative rotation has been calculated by numerical methods for gap anglesθ0 in the range 2° to 10° and Reynolds numberRe in the range 0 to 10,000. The simulation results in the cone-plate (CP) region are consistent with the analytical results of King and Waters for the caseR = ∞ (R is the cone radius), forRe = 0 (primary flow) and also for highRe (with inertial force effects included), except near the free liquid boundary. It is found that the boundary thickness of the flow disturbance is a function ofθ0 andRe alone. A smooth and continuous transition from parallel-plate (PP) flow to CP flow region near the truncation edger = r0 is found for all the conditions investigated. ForRe < 500, disturbances to the primary velocity field (a unidirectional shear flow) forθ0 equal to 2° and 3° are everywhere less than 0.1%, when expressed in terms of shear rate. For the commonly used conditions, whereRe ⩽ 10, flow disturbances due to inertia should not make difficulties in the use of the TCP apparatus.
Lack of effect of diphenylhydantoin administration on cortex potassium activated p-nitrophenylphosphatase.

Potassium-activated p-nitrophenylphosphatase (K+-activated phosphatase) activity was assayed in rat cerebral cortex following diphenylhydantoin (DPH) administration. No effect was found at any of 5K+ concentrations ranging from 1 to 20 mM in contrast to the stimulation of sodium-potassium-activated ATPase (NaKATPase) by DPH which has been reported under certain ionic conditions. In addition, the inhibition of K+-activated phosphatase by Na+ was not influenced by DPH. Diphenylhydantoin administration had no effect on the ouabain inhibition of K+-activated phosphatase, although at 10−4m ouabain a slight increase in residual NaKATPase activity was found. As K+-activated phosphatase activity is thought to reflect the K+-activated dephosphorylation step of the NaKATPase reaction, DPH may act primarily on the Na+-dependent phosphorylation step.
Genetic susceptibility for specific cancers. Medical liability of the clinician.

The use of genetic profiling techniques to detect individuals with an increased susceptibility to heritable cancers has provoked recent legal interest in the duties of the attending physician and in the rights of patients and their families. In the current study specific prima facie and recently litigated cases are presented and explored to delineate the issues facing physicians and to illustrate the prerogatives of patients who are caught up in a heritable cancer enigma. Various courts have attempted to answer questions involving lawsuits in which incidents of breast/ ovarian carcinoma and colon carcinoma have provoked claims of negligence against health care providers. Health care workers involved in the care of these patients have specific duties to these individuals. It would appear that physicians are being forced to assume the additional duty of delving into a patient's family history of cancer through multiple generations. This duty is followed by a responsibility to provide detailed counseling to those patients in whom such activity impacts the diagnosis and management of familial cancer.
Estimation of upland erosion using GIS

Abstract The Universal Soil-Loss Equation (USLE) is a widely used method for calculating annual soil erosion losses, based on rainfall, runoff, slope, runoff length, soil type, and landuse parameters. The equation was originally developed on small agricultural plots, but has since been adopted for evaluating erosion from large watersheds under a wide range of landuses. This study was designed to compare USLE calculations in a GIS environment at grid sizes ranging from 30×30 m up to 6×6 km. The analysis of two watersheds in Mississippi shows that large grid sizes tend to underestimate soil losses. At grid sizes exceeding 100×100 m, a correction factor must be included in the calculations. With the use of the correction factor, the USLE can be applied directly at macroscales, providing an important tool for studies of basin-wide upland erosion rates. The proposed method is shown to be applicable for large watersheds under different climates.
Transcriptional Termination: Charging it cancels the order

In a newly discovered mechanism for regulating transcription termination, a cognate uncharged tRNA acts directly to promote transcription readthrough.
Chronic meningococcemia in a child with a deficiency of the sixth component of complement

Chronic meningococcemia represents an uncommon manifestation of meningococcal disease. Microbial and host factors which may predispose to this form of meningococcal disease are not understood. Although acute meningococcal disease is frequently found in patients with terminal complement deficiencies, the relationship of chronic meningococcemia to complement deficiencies is unclear. We present a case report and a review of the literature describing chronic meningococcemia in association with deficiencies of the complement system. A total of eight cases were identified, all of whom were male. Six of the eight patients were children and two of the eight had a previous history of meningococcal disease. This case report, in conjunction with the previously reported cases, suggests an association between complement deficiencies and chronic meningococcemia.
The decision to build the space station too weak a commitment

Abstract The decision to build the Space Station illustrates the way in which the incremental nature of policy making in the US government favours short-term flexibility over long-term commitments. In making the moves necessary to win approval for the Space, Station NASA officials and their allies took actions which gave policy makers frequent opportunities to re-examine the programme once approved, and may have made likely the continuing uncertainty over the future of the station. Difficulty in securing long-term commitments for large and complex science and technology programmes has been a central feature of US space policy ever since the landing on the Moon.
Placing Identity: Place as a Discursive Resource for Occupational Identity Work Among High-Tech Entrepreneurs

In a globalized world, place may play a much larger role in shaping occupational identities than scholars realize. Rather than serving as mere context in which identity work is conducted, cities, s...
Will the Global Economic Downturn Affect Prostate Cancer Care? Pelvic Lymphadenectomy as an Example

After reading the outstanding review by Briganti et al [1], I cannot help but think of how our care of men with prostate cancer might change if the global economic downturn continues and worsens. As an American urologist I have the added stress of change that a new presidential administration brings and the prospects of a revised American health care system [2,3]. This global economic slowdown is also playing out in the context of an aging population, an obesity epidemic, and a shortage of physicians and urologists (in the United States). These negatives, however, are balanced by a plethora of molecular discoveries, novel pathways and agents in the global pipeline, and potential government stimulus packages that could pump funding to move more treatments from bench to bedside. One might think it a stretch to discuss these issues related to pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND), but this example is as good as any. Despite the compelling arguments made by these highly regarded authors for extended pelvic lymphadenectomy (EPLND) [1], the procedure is not commonly performed in the United States (and, I suspect, in many other countries). The reasons for this include economics, expertise, and evolving stage migration. Although it may not by politically correct to discuss, I believe the main reason that EPLND is not done more often is the concept of ‘‘time is money.’’ In other words, the insurance reimbursement for EPLND is not generally greater than
Effect of Season and Stage of Lactation on Performance of Holsteins

Ninety-seven Holstein cows were used to evaluate the effects of season and stage of lactation on physiological measurements, behavior, and milk production. Skin and rectal temperatures and respiration rates were lowest in winter and highest in summer. Skin temperatures increased .39°C per degree rise in ambient temperature, whereas rectal temperature and respiration rate changed .017°C and 1.74 breaths/min per degree increase in air temperature. Eating activity in winter was 5.6 h and decreased to 4.2 h during summer. Lying activity decreased from winter to summer, whereas standing activity increased. Drinking, defecation, and urination frequency increased from winter to summer. Monthly milk yield was highest during the spring and lowest in winter. Highest milk yield for early and midlactation cows was in the spring, whereas late lactation cows performed best in the summer. Midlactation cows were most adversely affected by summer conditions, and early and late lactation cows were most affected by winter conditions. These data show differential response of cows in different stages of lactation to changes in the environment.
The formation of chondrule-containing extraterrestrial materials: Evidence for rapid solidification under microgravity conditions

Abstract An alternate hypothesis for the formation of meteoritic chondrules, lunar soils and pallasites is presented. These materials solidified rapidly under microgravity conditions or in free fall. The many varieties of chondrule microstructures were generated by the interaction of microgravity and rapid solidification. Chondrules, which are a characteristic feature of meteorites and lunar soils, were formed by the action of surface energy forces, which dominated gravity forces at the time of their formation. Under microgravity, the close association between metal and silicate phases in pallasites is expected because buoyancy forces are reduced.
Influence of Solvent on the Interfacial Structure of Self-Assembled Alkanethiol Monolayers

Polarization modulation infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (PM-IRRAS) is used to study the structure of octadecanethiol, tetradecanethiol, and decanethiol monolayers in the presence of air, deuterium oxide, and acetonitrile-d3. It is found that the structure of the monolayer is dependent on both the adjacent environment and the initial structural order of the monolayer. In the D2O solutions, spectral changes are similar for the three monolayers and are characteristic of interaction predominantly between the solvent and the terminal portion of the monolayers. This correlates with electrochemical capacitance measurements that indicate little permeation of the aqueous electrolyte in the monolayer, even with the largely disordered decanethiol monolayer. With acetonitrile solutions, the three monolayers have different behaviors. The octadecanethiol monolayer changes little from the ex situ structure, indicating little interaction between the solvent and the monolayer. Tetradecanethiol and decanethiol,...
Older Women's Experiences with Chronic Pain: Daily Challenges and Self-Care Practices

The subjective nature of chronic pain leads to challenges in describing, treating, and accommodating pain. Twenty older women, who engaged in focus groups, and eight of whom also participated in individual interviews, discussed the influence of chronic pain on their perception of self as well as daily functioning. Managing pain forced many of the women to withdraw from social activities that they valued and interfered with sleep patterns, household tasks and recreational activities. Varied acceptance by social network members added to the challenge of adjusting to complications associated with pain. Self-care practices that supported independence contributed to women's perceived success in daily functioning.
Improvement in Psychological Functioning Among Drug Abusers: Inpatient Treatment Compared to Outpatient Methadone Maintenance

Abstract A total of 68 opiate and cocaine abusers, receiving hospital-based, multimodal treatment for drug abuse in a 14 to 21-day program, and 47 patients newly admitted to methadone maintenance were compared on changes in psychological functioning, using a pretreatment-posttreatment design. Psychological changes were assessed by the Adjective Checklist, measuring the construct of “need.” Inpatient treatment resulting in abstinence was associated with positive, meaningful, and significant changes in need pattern that were internally consistent. An equivalent amount of time on methadone maintenance outpatient treatment produced no improvement in psychological functioning, except that these patients evidenced increased dependency needs. Implications are discussed.
REDOX PROPERTIES OF FERROCENYLALKANE THIOLS COADSORBED WITH LINEAR N-ALKANETHIOLS ON POLYCRYSTALLINE BULK GOLD ELECTRODES

Abstract Mixed monolayer films were prepared from ethanol solutions of ω-ferrocenylhexanethiol and simple C 4 C 10 n -alkanethiols. The following trends are observed as the alkanethiol chain length increases: the amount of immobilized ferrocene decreases and the redox potential for ferrocene oxidation becomes more positive. The redox potential ranges from +0.20 V vs. Ag/AgCl for the shorter homologues to +0.39 V for coadsorption with n -decanethiol. Further, the potential scales with log[ C HClO 4 , confirming that ion pairing occurs. A localized non-polar environment created by the coadsorbed alkanethiols is postulated.
Ethylene Polymerization by Palladium Alkyl Complexes Containing Bis(aryl)phosphino-toluenesulfonate Ligands

The reaction of L′2PdR2 (L′ = pyridine (py), pyridazine; L′2 = cyclooctadiene, TMEDA) with 2-{(2-OMe-Ph)2P}-4-Me-benzenesulfonic acid ([PO-OMe]H, [1a]H) or 2-{(2-Et-Ph)2P}-4-Me-benzenesulfonic acid ([PO-Et]H, [1b]H) yields [PO-OMe]Pd(R)(L) (L = py, R = CH2SiMe3 (2a), CH2tBu (3a), CH2Ph (4a); R = Me, L = pyridazine (5a), py (6a), PPh3 (7a)) or [PO-Et]Pd(Me)(py) (6b). 2a and 6b have square-planar structures in which the alkyl group is cis to the phosphine and the [PO]Pd chelate rings are puckered. The reaction of 2a and 3a with B(C6F5)3 yields {[PO-OMe]Pd(R)}2 (R = CH2SiMe3 (8a), CH2tBu (9a)). 8a is a sulfonate-bridged dimer in the solid state. 2a, 6a, and 6b polymerize ethylene to linear polyethylene that contains low levels of Me branches, one C═C unit per chain (mostly 1- or 2-olefins), and Mn in the range 6000 to 19 000. 6a is slightly more active but produces polymers with similar molecular weight and structure compared to 6b. 6a copolymerizes ethylene and hexene at low ethylene pressure (5 atm), but n...
Automatic analysis of the electromyographic interference pattern using the turns: amplitude ratio

This study was performed to compare different techniques of analyzing the electromyographic interference pattern (IP). Recordings were made from the biceps muscle with a concentric needle electrode at different sites and at different constant levels of voluntary contraction. The number of turns per second (NT), the mean amplitude change between successive turns (MA) and NT:MA ratio were determined for epochs of 1 sec duration. Normal limits of individual epoch NT:MA ratios and the mean value of NT:MA ratio obtained from all epochs in each muscle were determined. The mean NT:MA ratio was less in normal males than in females. IP recordings were made in the biceps muscle of 69 patients with neuropathy and 54 patients with myopathy, though this muscle was not necessarily affected by the disease in all patients. The IP was abnormal by visual inspection in 82% of patients compared to 61% based on NT:MA ratio and 74% using a technique that automatically quantitates some features of the IP that are assessed subjectively by an electromyographer. All techniques demonstrated IP abnormalities in more than 80% of the muscles that were moderately to severely weak. Though measuring the NT:MA ratio without monitoring the force of contraction is not as sensitive as other IP analysis techniques, it may be useful in quantitating abnormalities when other techniques are not available.
Phenolic acid content of soils from wheat-no till, wheat-conventional till, and fallow-conventional till soybean cropping systems

Soil core (0–2.5 and/or 0–10 cm) samples were taken from wheat no till, wheat-conventional till, and fallow-conventional till soybean cropping systems from July to October of 1989 and extracted with water in an autoclave. The soil extracts were analyzed for seven common phenolic acids (p-coumaric, vanillic,p-hydroxybenzoic, syringic, caffeic, ferulic, and sinapic; in order of importance) by high-performance liquid chromatography. The highest concentration observed was 4 μg/g soil forp-coumaric acid. Folin & Ciocalteu's phenol reagent was used to determine total phenolic acid content. Total phenolic acid content of 0- to 2.5-cm core samples was approximately 34% higher than that of the 0- to 10-cm core samples. Phenolic acid content of 0- to 2.5-cm core samples from wheat-no till systems was significantly higher than those from all other cropping systems. Individual phenolic acids and total phenolic acid content of soils were highly correlated. The last two observations were confirmed by principal component analysis. The concentrations were confirmed by principal component analysis, tions of individual phenolic acids extracted from soil samples were related to soil pH, water content of soil samples, total soil carbon, and total soil nitrogen. Indirect evidence suggested that phenolic acids recovered by the water-autoclave procedure used came primarily from bound forms in the soil samples.
Ecological metrics predict connectivity better than geographic distance

We use microsatellite loci to examine genetic structure of the Florida scrub lizard (Sceloporus woodi) and test for the effects of landscape variables at the scale of neighboring patches. We evaluate ecological metrics of connectivity with genetics data, which to our knowledge is the first application of these particular metrics to landscape-level genetics studies in Florida scrub. Florida scrub is a highly threatened ecosystem in which habitat patches are remnants of a previously widespread xeric landscape. Analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has shown that landscape structure influenced the evolutionary history of the Florida scrub lizard (S. woodi) across its range. Our results concur with these mtDNA studies in documenting divergence between xeric ridge systems and also demonstrate divergence at very local scales. Both least-cost distance and pairwise isolation (a metric used in ecological studies that includes patch size, quality and a modified isolation index) were better predictors of genetic distance than Euclidean distance, indicating that mesic and hydric habitat influence spatial patterns in genetic variation. Our results support the need for focusing on spatial distribution of scrub habitat at the scale of neighboring patches, as well as regionally, in conservation management and restoration. Also, our study points to the value of integrating landscape ecology metrics into landscape genetics.
Variants of Tissue-type Plasminogen Activator Which Display Substantially Enhanced Stimulation by Fibrin

Unlike most proteases, tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) is secreted from cells as an active, single chain "proenzyme" whose catalytic efficiency is comparable with that of the corresponding mature, two-chain enzyme. We have previously suggested that the absence of the "zymogen triad" (Asp194-His40-Ser32; chymotrypsin numbering) contributes to this unusually high enzymatic activity of single chain t-PA. Consistent with this prediction, the single chain form of a variant of t-PA containing the zymogen triad displayed dramatically reduced activity toward synthetic substrates. Activation cleavage of this variant, however, resulted in a mature, two-chain enzyme with full catalytic activity. To further examine the functional significance of the zymogen triad, we used site-specific mutagenesis to construct a variant of t-PA, t-PA/R275E,A292S,F305H, that contained this triad but could not be converted into its two-chain form by plasmin. Characterization of this variant demonstrated that the presence of the zymogen triad specifically suppressed plasminogen activation by single chain t-PA in the absence of fibrin. In addition, these studies indicated that, like wild type t-PA, zymogen activation of this variant could be accomplished by binding to the co-factor fibrin. The combination of full activity in the presence of fibrin and reduced activity in its absence resulted in novel variants of t-PA that displayed dramatically enhanced stimulation by fibrin. While the presence of fibrin increased the catalytic efficiency of t-PA toward plasminogen by a factor of approximately 520, this stimulation factor increased to 130,000 for t-PA/R275E,A292S,F305H. Plasmin-resistant, zymogen-like variants of t-PA, therefore, may represent thrombolytic enzymes with enhanced "clot selectivity."
Identification of a 68 kDa protein species as a specific DNA-binding component of the H3abp complex interacting with the histone H3.2 G1/S regulatory domain.

Abstract The hamster histone H3.2 promoter contains a protein binding site (referred to as site X) required for G1/S transcriptional activation. We report here that nuclear extracts prepared from serum synchronized cells at various stages of the cell cycle show a biphasic increase in the H3.2 specific complex, H3abp, binding to site X. An increase in binding activity occurs as cells first enter the cell cycle and later at the G1/S border. The H3.2 specific binding activity is enhanced by Mg2+ and Ca2+ in vitro, but is inhibited by Zn2+. Site X resembles a Jun/AP-1 site, but previously it has been shown that the H3abp complex is immunologically distinct from the characterized AP-1 proteins. Here, we identify the size of the hamster nuclear protein(s) that bind specifically to the H3abp site by ultra-violet crosslinking and renaturation of specific protein bands following gel electrophoresis. In addition, we purify H3abp by affinity chromatography and show that the purified H3abp has a different methylation interference profile from AP-1. Our results indicate that a protein species around 68 kDa is the major DNA binding component of the H3abp complex and it binds specifically to the histone promoter site required for G1/S regulation.
Quality of life in tuberculosis: A review of the English language literature

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) studies have concentrated on clinical outcomes; few studies have examined the impact of TB on patients' quality of life (QOL). Methods: A systematic review of published medical literature using specific MESH terms: [Tuberculosis] and 1 – [Outcome], 2 – [Outcome Assessment], 3 – [Quality of Life], 4 – [Mood Disorder], 5 – [Cost and Cost Analysis], 6 – [Religion], 7 – [Perception], 8 – [Social Support], 9 – [Optimism], 10 – [Stress], 11 – [Signs and Symptoms], and 12 – [Cost of Illness]. This yielded 1972 articles; 60 articles met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Results: TB somatic symptoms have been well studied, but there were no studies of effects on physical functioning or general health perceptions. Patients tend to be worried, frustrated, or disappointed by their diagnosis, but it is unknown how emotional health changes with treatment. Diagnosed patients are less likely to find work, and less able to work and care for their families. TB creates the greatest financial burden on the poor. In developing countries, patients and their families are ostracized by society, and families sometimes ostracize patients; the extent of TB's social stigma in the developed countries is unknown. Conclusion: There has been relatively little research on TB QOL and even less in developed countries. A better understanding may help improve treatment regimens, adherence to treatment, and functioning and well-being of people with TB.
Th1 cytokines facilitate CD8-T-cell-mediated early resistance to infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis in old mice.

Numerous immunological defects begin to emerge as an individual ages, the consequence of which is heightened susceptibility to infectious diseases. Despite this decline in immune function, old mice display an early transient resistance to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in the lung, which is dependent on CD8 T cells and gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) production. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of resistance by examining the CD8-T-cell phenotype and function in old naive and M. tuberculosis-infected mice. Pulmonary CD8 T cells from naive old mice expressed cell surface markers of memory in addition to receptors for several Th1 cytokines. Stimulation of lung cells from naive old mice with a combination of Th1 cytokines (interleukin-2 [IL-2], IL-12, and IL-18) resulted in nonspecific production of IFN-gamma by memory CD8 T cells. Following aerosol infection with M. tuberculosis, the lungs of old mice contained significantly more IL-12, IL-18, and IFN-gamma than the lungs of young mice contained. Together, these data demonstrate that the increased and early production of Th1 cytokines in the lungs of M. tuberculosis-infected old mice, in combination with CD8 T cells that can nonspecifically produce IFN-gamma, leads to transient control of M. tuberculosis growth in the lungs of old mice. Further characterization of this mechanism should provide essential information regarding the aging immune system and should contribute to the development of novel strategies to decrease the morbidity and mortality of the aging population associated with infectious diseases.
Thin-film composite bicontinuous cubic lyotropic liquid crystal polymer membranes: Effects of anion-exchange on water filtration performance

Abstract The effects of anion-exchange on the filtration performance of thin-film composite (TFC) membranes with an active layer consisting of a nanostructured, lyotropic (i.e., surfactant) liquid crystal (LLC) polymer were investigated. These TFC LLC membranes are made by the in situ cross-linking of reactive amphiphiles (i.e., surfactants) that self-organize in the presence of glycerol into a type I bicontinuous cubic (QI) phase that contains a uniform, 3D-interconnected pore network lined with tethered cationic moieties and free mobile anions in the pores. In this study, a systematic series of experiments were performed to independently investigate how monovalent cations and anions affect transport in these TFC QI membranes. TFC QI membranes exposed to feed solutions that contain different cations (i.e., Li+(aq), Na+(aq), and K+(aq)) but have the same monovalent anion as the free mobile anion in the membrane (i.e., Br–(aq)) have a constant flux and a high rejection (>98%). When the cation is kept constant (i.e., Na+(aq)) and the anion in the feed is varied (i.e., Cl–(aq), Br–(aq), NO 3 ( aq ) – , and I–(aq)) and allowed to partially anion-exchange with the membrane, a high rejection is maintained (≥96%), but the flux significantly changes depending on the anion in the feed solution. The flux of the TFC QI membranes can also be repeatedly be cycled by contacting the membranes with different anions. Control experiments with completely anion-exchanged TFC QI membranes (i.e., with Cl–(aq), Br–(aq), NO 3 ( aq ) – , and I–(aq)) showed that the rejection of sodium salts and uncharged organic solutes was virtually the same for all of the completely anion-exchanged membranes. As a whole, these results demonstrate that the flux of these TFC QI membranes can be tuned by changing the anion with little to no change in the rejection performance. The unique performance characteristics of TFC QI membranes may offer advantages over conventional NF and RO membranes for water purification applications or other aqueous separations.
The Effect of Cross-Linking on Gas Permeability in Cross-Linked Poly(Ethylene Glycol Diacrylate)

A series of cross-linked polymers, XLPEGDA, was prepared by photopolymerizing poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) in the presence of varying amounts of water or monofunctional poly(ethylene gl...
Five questions for health economists.

I had a lot of fun deciding what I wanted to talk about in front of this very distinguished audience of the American Society of Health Economists. I will be raising five questions for health economists that are intended to provoke discussion and perhaps foster future research. I propose these without claiming them to be exhaustive or themost important set of questions, only that they are an interesting set. The examples and facts presented are drawn largely from my own research, but also rely upon the research of others. Without further ado, let me get started. My first question is
Association of heart rate recovery and maximum oxygen consumption in patients with chronic congestive heart failure.

Background Peak oxygen consumption (peak Vo 2 ) is one of the strongest predictors of mortality in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). In contrast to measurements of peak Vo 2 , which requires analysis of expired gases, heart rate recovery, defined as maximum heart rate minus heart rate at 1 minute after exercise, is easily obtained. The current study was undertaken to determine the association between peak Vo 2 and heart rate recovery in patients with CHF. Methods Retrospective data on Vo 2 and heart rate recovery were analyzed in 296 patients with CHF secondary to left ventricular systolic dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] 1.0. Results Heart rate recovery and peak Vo 2 correlated moderately ( r = 0.47, p r = 0.47, p r = 0.49, p Conclusions Although heart rate recovery and peak Vo 2 correlated moderately, from a clinical standpoint, this finding is probably not strong enough to use heart rate recovery in lieu of peak Vo 2 . This modest correlation of two independent predictors of outcome may suggest their usefulness when combined in a multivariate score.
An Exploratory Study of Multiunit Restaurant Management Training: A Qualitative Perspective

Over the past 20 years, multiunit restaurants (MURs) have grown significantly in gross revenue, number of units, and market share. As the number of MUR companies grow, so do the number of multiunit managers (MUMs) needed to oversee the operations of those units. The concern in many food service organizations is the lack of consistent training that is provided to MUMs. The following qualitative study looks in depth at seven multiunit organizations and the training they provide to their MUMs. This study can help to inform both industry practitioners and academics regarding training best practices in the MUR industry. Implications for practitioners are discussed.
Phosphorus chemistry in the tidal Hudson River

Abstract A study of inorganic phosphorus in the tidal Hudson River was performed from November 1988 to October 1989. Results indicate that phosphate concentrations are at or near equilibrium with a suspended solid phase consisting of amorphous ferric phosphate in amorphous ferric hydroxide. Equilibrium was observed over most of the river, over most of the year. Undersaturation was observed regularly below river mile 40 and in the month of July. It represented the major deviation from equilibration. Low suspended sediment levels and dilution from sea water are believed to be responsible for undersaturation. Dissolved iron was near equilibrium with amorphous ferric hydroxide except in July. Recognition of the wide range of watersheds where phosphorus equilibrium controls phosphate concentrations suggests that the global, terrestrial flux of biologically available phosphorus may be double current estimates.
HAC-cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) chemotherapy for ovarian carcinoma. Alternating chemotherapy with intensification

Twenty-two previously untreated patients with adenocarcinoma of the ovary were treated with 28 day cycles of hexamethylmelamine, Adriamycin (doxorubicin), and cisplatin (HAC) for 9 months followed by three monthly cycles of intense intravenous cyclophosphamide. An overall response frequency of 82% (18/22) was achieved. Complete pathologic responses (CPR) documented by second look operations were found in 50% (11/22); however, patients considered to be free of disease (prolonged complete clinical response refusing "second look" and CPR) totaled 59%. Median survival has not been reached after a median follow-up of 34 months. No major or life threatening toxicity was encountered. HAC followed by cyclophosphamide is a highly effective regimen that may be easily administered on an outpatient basis with comparatively little toxicity.
Attenuation of lateral tape motion due to frictional interaction with a cylindrical guide

Lateral tape motion (LTM) is a function of tape path and tape properties, design parameters such as speed, tension, and friction between tape and tape path components. This investigation deals with the LTM of a tape moving over the surface of a cylindrical guide. Starting from the equation of motion for a moving tape on a cylindrical guide surface, the effects of friction, tape properties and design parameters are examined by calculating the ratio of LTM before and after a cylindrical guide. Attenuation of LTM is found to be mainly dependent on the guide radius and the wrap angle.
Use of Software Engineering Practices at a Small MIS Shop

This paper describes the software engineering practices used by the MIS Department at United Technologies Microelectronics Center (UTMC). It describes the life cycle of a software change and the controls established to implement the change. Several software tools used by UTMC to develop and control software development and integration are described as well as methods used to integrate vendor software packages with in-house developed software. A computerized system for tracking and controlling users' modification requests has been developed. Software requirements for a small MIS shop are examined and compared to the requirements for large software development projects.
Molecular distributions in polycondensations involving unlike reactants. III. Distributions arising in the linear coupling of single polymers

The molecular distributions arising in the coupling of linear polymers are treated in this paper. The distributions are similar to those arising in single-stage polycondensations, but are more complex. Multi-stage polycondensations lead to extremely complex distributions. Frequently the distributions of coupled polymers are quite similar to those of the geometrical. However, if the polymer chains to be coupled are quite different from the geometrical in distribution, or if very unsymmetrical coupling agents are used, the coupled polymers may be much narrower than geometrically distributed polymers. In the limit, it is possible to achieve essentially monodisperse polycondensates using multi-stage condensation.
Oxy-functionalization of Group 9 and 10 transition metal methyl ligands: use of pyridine-based hemi-labile ligands

Hemi-labile ligands (HLLs) are intriguing candidates for catalysts since they may facilitate bond activation and bond formation through facile ligand dissociation/association. DFT studies are reported of hemi-labile ligands in conjunction with Group 9 and 10 metals for oxygen atom insertion into metal–methyl bonds. Analysis of the reaction of pyridine-N-oxide with d8-[LnM (Me)(THF)]q+ (M = Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd, Pt; Ln = 2-(CH3OCH2)Py; q = 0 and +1 for Group 9 and 10 metals, respectively; Py = pyridine; THF = tetrahydrofuran) indicates that oxy-insertion for Group 9 complexes occurs with lower free energy barriers than their Group 10 congeners. Analysis of structural changes along the reaction coordinate suggests that the initial oxygen atom transfer and subsequent methyl migration steps are favored by a reduction and increase, respectively, in coordination number. This emphasizes that HLLs could be uniquely positioned to assist both transformations within a single complex. Additionally, such ligands are worthy of experimental study due to their ability to meet the disparate coordination demands for two-step, redox-based oxy-insertion.
Reactive hot pressing of zirconium diboride

Abstract The reaction of zirconium and boron was investigated as a potential route to form dense monolithic zirconium diboride (ZrB2) ceramics. Attrition milling of the precursors produced nanosized (less than 100 nm) zirconium metal particles that reacted with boron to form ZrB2 with an average particle size of less than 100 nm at temperatures as low as 600 °C. Scanning electron microscopy of ZrB2 compacts heated to 1450 °C and 1650 °C showed average particle sizes of 0.6 μm and 1.0 μm, respectively, suggesting that the fine particle size was maintained during densification. Ceramics with a relative density of ∼99% were produced by hot pressing at 2100 °C. Dense ZrB2 produced by the reactive hot pressing process had mechanical properties that were comparable to ceramics produced by conventional processes. The four-point flexure strength of ZrB2 produced in this study was 434 MPa.
The effect of indocyanine green pretreatment on the parameters of transscleral diode laser thermotherapy-induced threshold coagulation of the ciliary body†

Background and Objective To study the effect of indocyanine green (ICG) pretreatment on threshold parameters of transscleral diode laser thermotherapy-induced threshold coagulation of the ciliary body. The procedure was termed ‘cyclothermotherapy’ based on the long duration (15–60 seconds) of diode laser application. Study Design/Materials and Methods The right eyes of nine young adult New Zealand white rabbits underwent transscleral cyclothermotherapy (TCT, Group 1), TCT following ICG pretreatment (Group 2), and external manipulation of the ciliary body alone (Group 3). Rabbits were sacrificed after 24 hours; specimens were evaluated with gross examination and light microscopy. Results Thresholds were 30 J/cm2 (TCT) and 4.5 J/cm2 (TCT with ICG). Widespread structural damage was seen in the ciliary processes and the ciliary body in Groups 1 and 2. In Group 3, external manipulation of the ciliary body caused hemorrhage and structural damage confined to the ciliary processes. Conclusion ICG pretreatment reduced the energy necessary to cause a threshold lesion with TCT in nonpigmented rabbits. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:157–162, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Optimal Timing of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Acute Myocardial Infarction

The timing of surgical coronary artery revascularization after an acute myocardial infarction is not well defined. The inherent difficulties of mobilizing a surgical team at odd hours has led to the adoption of a percutaneous coronary intervention strategy when possible or a clot-busting drug regimen when percutaneous coronary intervention is not available. Despite the difficulties and risks of surgical revascularization, there are situations where it may be indicated. We conducted a review of the literature to better understand the timing, scope, and risks of surgical coronary revascularization after an acute myocardial infarction.
Forecast horizons for a class of dynamic games

In theory, a Markov perfect equilibrium of an infinite-horizon nonstationary dynamic game requires from the players the ability to forecast an infinite amount of data. In this paper, we prove that early strategic decisions are decoupled effectively from the tail game in nonstationary dynamic games with discounting and uniformly bounded rewards. This decoupling is formalized by the notion of a forecast horizon. In words, the first-period equilibrium strategies are invariant with respect to changes in the game parameters for periods beyond the forecast horizon. We illustrate our results in the context of dynamic games of exploitation of a common pool resource and make use of the rather natural monotonicity properties of finite-horizon equilibria.
Evaluation of two school‐based HIV prevention interventions in the border city of Tijuana, Mexico

This research project examined the individual and combined effectiveness of an HIV prevention workshop and a free condom distribution program in four high schools in Tijuana, Mexico. Adolescents (N = 320) completed baseline measures on sexual practices and theoretical correlates and participated in a two-part study. In Study 1, students were randomly assigned to an HIV prevention workshop or a control condition, with a 3-month follow-up assessment. Results indicate three significant workshop benefits regarding HIV transmission by altering sexual initiation, access to condoms, and traditional beliefs regarding condoms. In Study 2, we set up a condom distribution program at two of the participating schools, and students completed a 6-month follow-up assessment. Results indicate that exposure to the workshop followed by access to the condom distribution program yielded two beneficial results for reducing HIV transmission: moderating sexual initiation and increasing condom acquisition. Access to the condom distribution program alone had no effects on behavioral and psychosocial correlates of HIV transmission. We discuss implications of these results.
Incoherent Imaging by Z-Contrast Stem: Towards 1Å Resolution

By averaging phase correlations between scattered electrons a high angle detector in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) can provide an incoherent, Z-contrast image at atomic resolution. Phase coherence is effectively destroyed through a combination of detector geometry (transverse incoherence) and phonon scattering (longitudinal incoherence). Besides having a higher intrinsic resolution, incoherent imaging offers the possibility of robust reconstruction to higher resolutions, provided that some lower frequency information is present in the image. This should have value for complex materials and regions of complex atomic arrangements such as grain boundaries. Direct resolution of the GaAs sublattice with a 300kV is demonstrated.
Elevated atmospheric CO2 and the delayed biotic recovery from the end-Permian mass extinction

Excessive CO2 in the Earth ocean–atmosphere system may have been a significant factor in causing the end-Permian mass extinction. CO2 injected into the atmosphere by the Siberian Traps has been postulated as a major factor leading to the end-Permian mass extinction by facilitating global warming, widespread ocean stratification, and development of anoxic, euxinic and CO2-rich deep waters. A broad incursion of this toxic deep water into the surface ocean may have caused this mass extinction. Although previous studies of the role of excessive CO2 have focused on these “bottom-up” effects emanating from the deep ocean, “top-down” effects of increasing atmosphere CO2 concentrations on ocean-surface waters and biota have not previously been explored. Passive diffusion of atmospheric CO2 into ocean-surface waters decreases the pH and CaCO3 saturation state of seawater, causing a physiological and biocalcification crisis for many marine invertebrates. While both “bottom-up” and “top-down” mechanisms may have contributed to the relatively short-term biotic devastation of the end-Permian mass extinction, such a “top-down” physiological and biocalcification crisis would have had long-term effects and might have contributed to the protracted 5- to 6-million-year-long delay in biotic recovery following this mass extinction. Earth's Modern marine biota may experience similar “top-down” CO2 stresses if anthropogenic input of atmosphere/ocean CO2 continues to rise.
Construct validity of neuropsychological tests of conceptual and attentional abilities

In a mixed sample of community-living adults, this study examined the construct validity of five neuropsychological tests: Category Test (CAT), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task (PASAT), Visual Search and Attention Test (VSAT) and Trail Making Test: Part B (TMT-B). Principal components analyses showed that PASAT, VSAT, and TMT-B defined an attention factor and that CAT and WCST defined a conceptual factor. The results were discussed in terms of common interpretations of these procedures as well as in terms of Mirsky's (1989) components of attention.