cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Structure of GaAs/Si(211) Heteroepitaxial Layers

Gallium arsenide films grown on (211)Si by molecular-beam epitaxy have been investigated using transmission electron microscopy. The main defects observed in the alloy were of misfit dislocations, stacking faults, and microtwin lamellas. Silicon surface preparation was found to play an important role on the density of defects formed at the Si/GaAs interface. Two different types of strained-layer superlattices, InGaAs/InGaP and InGaAs/GaAs, were applied either directly to the Si substrate, to a graded layer (GaP-InGaP), or to a GaAs buffer layer to stop the defect propagation into the GaAs films. Applying InGaAs/GaAs instead of InGaAs/InGaP was found to be more effective in blocking defect propagation. In all cases of strained-layer superlattices investigated, dislocation propagation was stopped primarily at the top interface between the superlattice package and GaAs. Graded layers and unstrained AlGaAs/GaAs superlattices did not significantly block dislocations propagating from the interface with Si. Growing of a 50 nm GaAs buffer layer at 505°C followed by 10 strained-layer superlattices of InGaAs/GaAs (5 nm each) resulted in the lowest dislocation density in the GaAs layer (∼;5×l07/cm2) among the structures investigated. This value is comparable to the recently reported density of dislocations in the GaAs layers grown on (100)Si substrates [8]. Applying three sets of the same strained layersdecreased the density of dislocations an additional ∼2/3 times.
Preparation and properties of γ-methyleneglutamic acid

Abstract Procedures are described for the preparation of dl -γ-methylene glutamic acid, d -γ-methyleneglutamic acid, N -acetyl- dl -γ-methyleneglutamic acid, and γ-amino-α-methylenebutyric acid. A new method for determining γ-methyleneglutamic acid is described. The method involves heating with concentrated hydroxylamine and does not yield appreciable color with other monoaminodicarboxylic acids. Glutamine synthetase preparations from peanut cotyledons and liver glutamic dehydrogenase do not catalyze their respective reactions with γ-methyleneglutamate. Preliminary evidence suggests that peanut extracts catalyze a glutamic dehydrogenase type reaction with γ-methylene glutamate.
Evaluation of various forms of the Burnett equations

The conventional form of the Bumen equations, originating in 1939, have been shown in recent yean to yield much more realistic shock shuc~res than the Navier-Stokes equations. An inherent part of the conventional Bumen equations. unfortunately. is an inviscid, isentropic approximation for the materia! derivative present in both the viscous stress and hear conduction expressions of the original Bumett equations of 1935. Alternate forms for the Bumett viscous suess and heat flux arc investigated herein using the exact material derivative definition without approximation. and also using an improved approximation for the material derivatives based on Navier-Stokes rather than inviscid. isentropic equations. A similar investigation has been carried out for the Bumen-order equations recently developed by Woods. The various Bumcrt-order constitutive equations an studicd to determine stability to sd wavelength disturbances. and numerical accuracy for a one dimensional shock shucture. Bumen formulations which do not make some approximation to the material derivatives arc shown to reveal a new type of problem lcading to physically unreal heat conduction. Two modified Bumen-order formulations arc developed which greatly minimize this problem while simultaneously improving thc accuracy of shock smcturc computations.
Isolation and characterization of estuarine dissolved organic matter: Comparison of ultrafiltration and C18 solid-phase extraction techniques

Characterization of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from aquatic environments has always been constrained by the ability to obtain a representative fraction of the DOM pool for analysis. Ultrafiltration or extraction, commonly using XAD or C18 sorbents, is therefore generally used to concentrate and desalt DOM samples for further analyses. In this study, we compared ultrafiltration and C18 solid-phase extraction disks (SPE) as DOM isolation methods for estuarine samples. We also evaluated the use of the C18 SPE disks to isolate low-molecular-weight DOM (LMW-DOM) in the filtrate from ultrafiltration. The isolates from both methods and the LMW-DOM C18-extracts were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and direct temperature-resolved mass spectrometry (DT-MS). Based on mass balance and blank measurements, we found that the C18 SPE disks can be used to isolate bulk DOM and LMW-DOM from estuarine samples. FTIR and DT-MS analysis show that C18-extracted DOM and ultrafiltered high-molecular-weight DOM (HMW-DOM) differ markedly in chemical composition. The HMW-DOM is enriched in (degraded) polysaccharides along with aminosugars when compared with the C18-extracted DOM. The C18-extracted DOM appears enriched in aromatic compounds, probably from lignin and/or aromatic amino acids in proteins. C18 SPE of LMW-DOM samples from ultrafiltration increases the recovery of DOM from the total sample up to about 70%, compared to around 50% using ultrafiltration alone. Thus, a majority of the DOM can be isolated from estuarine samples by a combination of these techniques.
Free-solution Label-free Detection of α-crystallin Chaperone Interactions by Back-scattering Interferometry

We report the quantitative, label-free analysis of protein-protein interactions in free solution within picoliter volumes using backscatter interferometry (BSI). Changes in the refractive index are measured for solutions introduced on a PDMS microchip allowing determination of forward and reverse rate constants for two-mode binding. Time-dependent BSI traces are directly fit using a global analysis approach to characterize the interaction of the small heat-shock protein α-crystallin with two substrates: destabilized mutants of T4 lysozyme and the in vivo target βB1-crystallin. The results recapitulate the selectivity of αB-crystallin differentially binding T4L mutants according to their free energies of unfolding. Furthermore, we demonstrate that an αA-crystallin mutant linked to hereditary cataract has activated binding to βB1-crystallin. Binding isotherms obtained from steady-state values of the BSI signal yielded meaningful dissociation constants and establishes BSI as a novel tool for the rapid identification of molecular partners using exceedingly small sample quantities under physiological conditions. This work demonstrates that BSI can be extended to screen libraries of disease-related mutants to quantify changes in affinity and/or kinetics of binding.
A new approach to microhomogenization.

Abstract A versatile microhomogenizer is described which is capable of handling sample volumes ranging from 1 μl to several millititers. The sample and homogenization buffer are sealed within a segment of flexible plastic tubing. The sample is disrupted by rubbing or rolling a metal rod back and forth over the length of tubing. Centrifugation of the homogenate is performed in the same sealed tubing segment. This method can be used to homogenize single cells.
Outcomes of colorectal cancer arising in solid organ transplant recipients.

The incidence of colorectal cancer posttransplantation is unclear. Limited reports exist and have conflicting conclusions. We aimed to review the clinical features and oncologic outcomes of colorectal cancer in transplant recipients at our institution. A retrospective review of all patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer after solid organ transplantation between 2000 and 2011 was conducted. Clinical features and outcomes were reviewed. Twenty of 3,946 patients were identified. The most common single organ transplanted was the kidney (n = 8). Six patients had multiorgan transplantation. Median age of diagnosis of cancer was 64.3 years, and median time from transplant to diagnosis of cancer was 8.7 years. Ten patients were symptomatic at presentation. Cancer was identified on routine colonoscopy in seven patients. Tumors were most commonly found in the right colon (n = 14, 70 %). Six patients had stage IV disease at presentation. Short-term morbidity was identified in 11 patients. Postoperative mortality occurred in one patient. Median follow-up was 2.47 years. Overall survival at 5 years was 69 %, and disease-free survival was 68 %. Distant recurrence was seen in 3 (15 %) patients. Colorectal cancer in these patients is rare, and surgery can be done safely. Vigilant screening must be maintained in this patient population.
A new pH-sensor based on quinhydrone

A potentiometric pH sensor made of graphite, solid paraffin and quinhydrone is described to behave near to reversibility. The slope of the potential versus pH plot is −53.06 mV, the standard deviation of measurements is 0.05 to 0.06 pH units. Unlike the usual glass electrode this new pH sensor does not need calibration before use. The sensor can be made of any shape and size.
Equilibrium Pressures over BeF2/LiF(Flibe) Molten Mixtures

The pressures of the vapor species in equilibrium with Flibe at ~600°C are determined from work by Buchler and Stauffer and by Baes and coworkers. The former authors show that the principal vapor s...
The Sensitivity and Specificity of Ultrasound for the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Meta-analysis

Background Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most commonly diagnosed compression neuropathy of the upper extremity. Current AAOS recommendations are to obtain a confirmatory electrodiagnostic test in patients for whom surgery is being considered. Ultrasound has emerged as an alternative confirmatory test for CTS; however, its potential role is limited by lack of adequate data for sensitivity and specificity relative to electrodiagnostic testing.
Immobilized Enzymes Catalysis Reviews. 1978

Abstract Enzymes are protein catalysts found in all living cells. For more than a century chemists and biochemists have been studying the structure and function of these remarkable molecules, It is now known that the majority of enzymes are globular in structure with molecular weights in the range of 10, 000 to 600, 000 (Fig. 1). The active center, which generally represents a relatively small portion of the surface area of the molecule, is composed of a binding site and a catalytic site. In addition to amino acid side chains such as imidazole and thiol groups, the catalytic site often contains metal ions and non-protein “coenzymes”.
Nerve growth factor modulates tubulin transcript levels in pheochromocytoma PC12 cells

We report that nerve growth factor (NGF) can elevate tubulin transcript levels in cultured rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells in a manner which correlates with its capacity to enhance neurite formation. The elevation is due, at least in part, to transcript stabilization. We have previously shown that insulin and its homologs can similarly enhance neurite outgrowth and tubulin mRNA levels in human neuroblastoma cells. Insulin by itself can neither induce neurite formation nor increase tubulin transcript levels in PC12 cells. However, both responses are potentiated in cells treated with the combination of insulin and NGF. The results together support the generalization that tubulin transcript levels are specifically elevated whenever neurite elongation is initiated by polypeptide neuritogenic factors.
Cloning and expression analyses of sucrose non‐fermenting‐1‐related kinase 1 (SnRK1b) gene during development of sorghum and maize endosperm and its implicated role in sugar‐to‐starch metabolic transition

A full-length cDNA clone, SbSnRK1b (1530 bp, GenBank accession no. EF544393), encoding a putative serine/threonine protein kinase homologue of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) SNF1, was isolated from developing endosperm of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Multiple sequence alignment data showed a phylogenetic affiliation of the sorghum clone with the SnRK1b group of protein kinases that are highly expressed in cereal seed endosperm. The DNA gel blot analyses indicated that SbSnRK1b gene is present as a single- or low copy number gene in sorghum. The RNA and protein gel blot analyses confirmed the expression of SbSnRK1b in developing sorghum caryopses, overlapping with the starch biosynthesis phase, 12-24 days after fertilization. In situ hybridization and immunolocalization data resolved the spatial specificity of SbSnRK1b expression in the basal endosperm transfer cell layer, the unique port of assimilate unloading in the growing sorghum seed. Expression of SbSnRK1b was also evident in the developing sorghum microspores, coincident with the onset of starch deposition phase. As in sorghum, similar spatiotemporal specificity of SnRK1b expression was observed during maize (Zea mays L.) seed development. However, discordant in situ hybridization and immunolocalization data indicated that the expression of SbSnRK1b homologue in maize is under posttranscriptional control during endosperm development.
The Secretion of Migration Inhibitory Factor by Intact Schistosome Egg Granulomas maintained in vitro

TUBERCLE formation and delayed type dermal reactivity are the hallmarks of tuberculosis, yet the relationship between the two has only recently begun to be elucidated. Most experts still believe that the tuberculous granuloma is a tissue response to the irritative effect of mycobacterial lipids1,2. While the strength of this concept made it difficult to establish granulomatous inflammation as a host immunologic response3,5 Warren et al.6 showed that the schistosome egg granuloma is a manifestation of delayed hypersensitivity, as demonstrated by anamnestic reactivity, specificity, and transferability with immune lymphoid cells but not with antiserum. It was subsequently correlated with other parameters of the cell-mediated immune reaction, including delayed dermal reaction, lymphocyte transformation and macrophage-migration inhibition7. Similar results have been provided for the experimental tuberculous granuloma8–13. Here we report the secretion of a lymphokine by intact granulomas maintained in vitro, further confirming the hypersensitivity character of the schistosome egg granuloma.
Historic Charcoal Production in the US and Forest Depletion: Development of Production Parameters

Charcoal was the fuel of choice for the early nineteenth century for iron making and smelting of other metals in the United States. The industry involved massive amount of woodcutting and entire woodlands were depleted. The problem is somewhat exaggerated in the literature. While forest destruction tended to be quite complete near smelters and furnaces, it was generally localized near the demand for the fuel. Many authors attempt to equate furnace production to forest area depletion as one measure of environmental destruction. This is not as easy as it appears. The mathematics seems simple and uses a few basic ratios: furnace yield or bushels of charcoal needed to produce a ton of output; charcoal yield or bushels of charcoal produced from a cord of wood, and forest yield or cubic meters per ha. Different furnaces, colliers, and forests have different yields. Production parameters are critical to estimate productivity and costs. These parameters are discussed in terms of estimation problems and average expected values. This valuable information will make estimation of forest area use in charcoal production more reliable.
Continuous Sorbent Reactions in a High-Temperature Fabric Filter Following Convective Pass Ca(OH)2 Injection for SO2 Removal.

ABSTRACT A specially designed two-stage reactor was used to study solid sorbent reactions in the filtration stage of a high-temperature fabric which follow convective pass Ca(OH)2 injection. Solid conversions during the progress of the sorbent reactions were thoroughly analyzed. It was found that, unlike the sorbent reactions in the injection stage, which proceed extremely fast with strong carbonation under high temperatures, the subsequent sorbent reactions in the filtration stage are much slower and residual sorbent is mainly utilized in removing sulfur dioxide (SO2). Two major reaction pathways are discovered in the filtration stage. The first route is through the decomposition of residual calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), which is critical in inducing further sorbent reactions when there is sufficient residual sorbent. The second route is the sulfation of the carbonation product, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which may become the principal reaction to remove SO2 after the residual sorbent is consumed. The con...
Is There a Quest for Identity

It is widely assumed that people today experience an imperative quest for identity, and that altruism and work have been displaced as credible routes to self-discovery by the abandonment of inhibition and the attainment of intimacy. A preliminary examination of these premises is made through questions included in a survey of adults in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and in questionnaires administered to students at UCLA, two Australian universities, and one British university. Very few adults in Los Angeles, even in the youngest and most highly educated brackets, acknowledge any preoccupation with the question, “Who am I really?,” though most university students in the four samples do. Both adults and students endorse altruism most frequently, impulse-release least frequently, and intimacy with intermediate frequency as routes to self-discovery. They differ most in their evaluation of work as a medium for self-discovery. All observations apply only to a self-conscious search for identity.
Contextual Strength Modulates the Subordinate Bias Effect: Reply to Rayner, Binder, and Duffy

Martin, Vu, Kellas, and Metcalf (this issue) report research indicating that strongly biased contexts can eliminate a subordinate bias effect, whereas in weakly biased context, a subordinate bias effect is evident. Martin et al. further show that in weakly biased contexts the subordinate bias effect increased in a continuous fashion as the frequency difference between dominant and subordinate meanings of ambiguous words increased. The results supported a context-sensitive model of lexical ambiguity resolution. Rayner, Binder, and Duffy (this issue) challenge the research on theoretical and methodological grounds. Here, we address the major issues raised by Rayner et al. We refer the reader to Kellas and Vu (in press) for additional comments.
Mermaids‐ their biology, culture. and demise1

Siren L. (Nixi subordo nova, Sirenia, Illiger) is redescribed on the basis of hitherto overlooked observations. Three species, essentially restricted to the sublittoral of warm seas, are recognized. Records from higher latitudes are explained as those of wampum-collecting individuals. Biological and ethological data are reviewed and new inferences made about mariculture. The extinction of the group during this century is hypothesized to have been caused by the increase of jellyfish due to reduction of planktivorous visual predators by humans.
RADIOCHEMICAL STUDIES OF THE (p,pn) REACTION IN COMPLEX NUCLEI IN THE 80- 450-Mev RANGE

Excitation functions for the ($p, \mathrm{pn}$) reaction have been determined in the energy range 82 Mev to 426 Mev for the target nuclei ${\mathrm{F}}^{19}$, ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{65}$, and ${\mathrm{Au}}^{197}$. The absolute values are based on the excitation function for the reaction ${\mathrm{C}}^{12}(p, pn){\mathrm{C}}^{11}$. These excitation functions exhibit a general decrease with energy and the cross sections lie between 122 mb for ${\mathrm{Au}}^{196}$ at 82 Mev and 23 mb for ${\mathrm{F}}^{18}$ at 426 Mev. An excitation function for the reaction ${\mathrm{Al}}^{27}(p, 3pn){\mathrm{Na}}^{24}$ is also presented. The results of Monte Carlo nuclear cascade calculations have been used to predict these ($p, \mathrm{pn}$) excitation functions. The theoretical results are compared with experimental results of this and other reports. Agreement is obtained for the ${\mathrm{F}}^{19}(p, pn){\mathrm{F}}^{18}$ excitation function and an extrapolation of the Monte Carlo results. The theoretical excitation functions are about one-half the experimental results for the ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{65}(p, pn){\mathrm{Cu}}^{64}$ reaction and about one-third the experimental results for ${\mathrm{Au}}^{197}(p, pn){\mathrm{Au}}^{196}$. The effects on the Monte Carlo calculations of a variation in the radius parameter are examined.
Achieving gingival esthetics.

ABSTRACT Introduction. Dentists traditionally have thought of periodontal treatment as a means of saving the teeth while leaving the patient with an esthetic problem. This no longer is true. The goal of this article is to show how esthetic crown-lengthening procedures, papillary regeneration and root coverage may enhance the overall esthetic results of periodontal treatment. Methods and Results. Esthetic crown lengthening aims not only to provide biological width for the healthy restoration of teeth, but also to permit esthetic gingival and prosthetic contours. Papillary regeneration aims to fill the dark spaces that may occur interproximally with the progression of periodontitis or as a result of tooth alignment. Finally, root coverage procedures now can provide predictable results with the application of connective-tissue periodontal grafts and plastic surgery techniques. This article presents a case report for each type of procedure, each of which resulted in improved esthetics and cosmetic appearance. Clinical Implications. Periodontal treatment now is part of the solution for certain esthetic problems. While technically demanding, these procedures, in the hands of an appropriately trained and experienced clinician, can improve the overall results of patient treatment.
Bureaucratic incentives, path dependence, and foreign aid: An empirical institutional analysis of irrigation in the Philippines

At least 25 developing countries are embarking on irrigation governance reforms to address the persistent problem of poor irrigation performance. Some scholars suggest that the patterns of construction, deterioration, rehabilitation, and modernization commonly found among irrigation agencies in these countries are rational because of the time inconsistency problem of information. I argue instead, using panel data from the Philippines, that the problem of poor performance is linked to inherent incentive problems faced by public bureaucracies, how these incentives became entrenched in the path dependence of irrigation development, and how these were reinforced by incentives embedded in irrigation aid, particularly by the moral hazard problem and the fungibility of irrigation aid.
Discrete Choice Methods With Simulations

(2005). Discrete Choice Methods With Simulations. Journal of the American Statistical Association: Vol. 100, No. 469, pp. 351-352.
Comments on "A simple proof of Kharitonov's theorem" by K.S. Yeung and S.S. Wang

It is pointed out that the results of the note by K.S. Yeung and S.S. Wang (see ibid., vol.AC-32, p.822-3, 1987) are already available in the literature. >
THEORETICAL LIFETIMES, TRANSITION RATES, X-RAY WAVELENGTHS, AND FLUORESCENCE YIELDS OF HOLLOW NEON ATOMS WITH DOUBLE K-SHELL VACANCIES

Abstract X-ray and Auger transition rates, X-ray wavelengths, lifetimes, and fluorescence yields have been calculated for multiply-stripped hollow neon atoms (Ne q + , q =2–8) with double K-shell vacancies. The calculations have been performed in the intermediate coupling scheme using Hartree–Fock atomic model. The line fluorescence yields are found to decrease as electron population in the outer L shell increases. We have found large discrepancies between configuration-average fluorescence yields calculated from the configuration-average X-ray and Auger rates, often used to interpret experimental ion–surface and ion–atom collision data, and those calculated from the line fluorescence yields.
Impurity doping effect on photostriction in PLZT ceramics

Photostriction is the superposition of a photovoltaic and piezoelectric effects. In this study, photostrictive effects in the perovskite (Pb, La) (Zr, Ti)O3 were investigated as a function of B-site impurity doping. Donor doping was found to reduce both the grain size and room-temperature dielectric constant, influencing photovoltaic response. WO3 and Ta2O5 doping increase the photovoltaic response, but do not significantly affect the piezoelectric effect in this material. Maximum photostriction is obtained for samples with 0.4 at% WO3 doped or 1 at% Ta2O5 doped PLZT
Relative rate constants for reactions of HFC 152a, 143, 143a, 134a, and HCFC 124 with F or Cl atoms and for CF2CH3, CF2HCH2, and CF3CFH radicals with F2, Cl2, and O2

Relative rate experiments using UV photolysis of F2 or Cl2 have been used to determine rate constant ratios for several hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) reactions with Cl or F atoms and for HFC alkyl radicals with molecular halogens. For mixtures with F2 present, dark reactions are, also, observed which are attributed to thermal dissociation of the F2 to form F atoms. At 296 K, the rate of reaction (1a) [CF2HCH3 + F CF2CH3 + HF] relative to (1b) [CF2HCH3 + F CF2HCH2 + HF] is k1a/k1b = 0.73 (±0.13) and is independent of T (= 262–348 K). At 296 K, the ratio of reaction (2a) [CF2HCH2F + F products] to that of (k1a + k1b) is (k1a + k1b)/k2a = 2.7 (±0.4), and for reaction (2b) [CF3CH3 + F products] (k1a + k1b)/k2b = 22 ± 12. The temperature dependence (263–365 K) of the rate constant of reaction (3) [CF3CFH2 + Cl products] relative to reaction (4) [CF3CFClH + Cl products] is k3/k4(±10%) = 1.55 exp(−300 K/T). For the alkyl radicals formed from HFC 152a (CF2HCH2 and CF2CH3) and from HFC 134a (CF3CFH), rate constants for the reactions with F2 and Cl2 were measured relative to their reactions with O2. The rate constant of reaction (5cl) [CF2CH3 + Cl2 CF2ClCH3 + Cl] relative to (5o) [CF2CH3 + O2 CF2(O2)CH3] is k5cl/k5o(±15%) = 0.3 exp(200 K/T). For reaction (5f) [CF2CH3 + F2 CF3CH3 + F], k5f/k5o(±35%) = 0.23. The ratio for reaction (6f) [CF2HCH2 + F2 CF2HCH2F + F] relative to (6o) [CF2HCH2 + O2 CF2HCH2O2] is k6f/k6o(±40%) = 1.23 exp(−730 K/T). The rate constant ratio for reaction (8cl) [CF3CFH + Cl2 CF3CFClH + Cl] relative to reaction (8o) [CF3CFH + O2 CF3CFHO2] is k8cl/k8o(±18%) = 0.16 exp(−940 K/T). For reaction (8f) [CF3CFH + F2 CF3CF2H + F], k8f/k8o(±35%) = 0.6 exp(−860 K/T). © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Human skin–derived mast cells can proliferate while retaining their characteristic functional and protease phenotypes

Human mast cells in adult tissues have been thought to have limited, if any, proliferative potential. The current study examined mast cells obtained from adult skin and cultured in serum-free medium with recombinant human stem cell factor. During the first 4 weeks of culture, the percentages of mast cells increased from 10 to almost 100. After 8 weeks, a 150-fold increase in the number of mast cells was observed. When freshly dispersed mast cells were individually sorted onto human fibroblast monolayers and cultured for 3 weeks, one or more mast cells were detected in about two thirds of the wells, and in about two thirds of these wells the surviving mast cells showed evidence of proliferation, indicating most mast cells in skin can proliferate. Such mast cells all expressed high surface levels of Kit and FceRI, each of which were functional, indicating IgE was not required for FceRI expression on mast cells. Such mast cells also retained the MCTC protease phenotype of mast cells that normally reside in the dermis. After 4 to 8 weeks of culture these mast cells degranulated in response to substance P and compound 48/80, characteristics of skin-derived mast cells that persist outside of the cutaneous microenvironment. (Blood. 2001;97:2045-2052)
3T-MRH1 spectroscopy for quantification of myocardial steatosis: relationship to metabolic profile and global myocardial function

Methods A research protocol was applied on 90 subjects, using a Siemens Verio 70 cm bore 3T-MRI scanner. All subjects were not known to have cardiac disease. MR spectroscopy was performed with water suppressed ECG gated point resolved spectroscopy (PRESS), TR/TE =1R-R/ 30ms. PRESS voxel was located in the septum at isovolumic phase of diastole. Short axis and 4-chamber Steady State Free Precession (SSFP) cine images were obtained to prescribe the PRESS voxel location, and saturation slabs across subcutaneous and pericardial fat were used. A breathing navigator was set on the dome of the diaphragm on a free breathing scout to reduce the breathing effects. B0 shimming parameters were optimized with a (breath-hold) rapid B0 mapping method. Fat content was quantified with Amares/MRUI and related to water in unsuppressed spectra. SSFP images were used for evaluation of global myocardial function (ejection fraction, end diastolic volume, end systolic volume, stroke volume and cardiac output). Variables were indexed to BSA. All subjects had same day metabolic profile evaluation, included insulin sensitivity, fasting glucose level, resting energy expenditure, maximum VO2, regional fat percentage and waist circumference. Lipid profile including serum cholesterol, HDL, LDL and serum triglycerides was obtained within one month of the scan.
Histones H3 and H4 inhibit protein kinase C specifically.

Summary The lysine-rich histone H1 is a preferred substrate for the Ca 2+ -phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase C). Histones H3 and H4 are poor substrates but potent inhibitors of the enzyme. The inhibitory effect of H3 and H4 seems to result mainly from a decreased sensitivity of protein kinase C to stimulation by phosphatidylserine (PS). These observations suggest that site-specific phosphorylation of one histone type can be regulated by other histones.
Spatial patterns of urban growth: Optimum and market

Abstract The optimum spatial pattern of urban growth for a problem which is essentially a dynamic version of von Thunen model of land use is first studied by using a notion of bid land price curves, which is a dynamic extension of bid rent curves by Alonso [1]. Then a competitive market of which equilibrium growth path coincides with this optimum one is obtained by examining demand side properties. It is hoped in this way to throw some light for the future development of dynamic theory of urban land use.
Characterization of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) emission from xenon generated using a compact plasma-discharge source for lithography applications

In this work we have studied the generation of Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) light by a novel Compact Electron Cyclotron Resonance Ion Source (CECRIS). The EUV emission diagnostics of the ECR plasma was accomplished by means of a 1.5 m Grazing Incidence Monochromator which was operated in a wavelength range of 4-90 nm under the condition of medium to high resolution to discriminate between spectra arising from different Xe q+ (q = 1-10) charge states. One of the major accomplishments of this study is assignment of numerous new optical transitions for Xenon in the 10-80 nm range under absolute conditions to create a database for further investigations. High resolution spectra were recorded confirming fair contributions from highly excited Xe 10+ and Xe 9+ ionic states. Major outcome of this work is that the Xe 10+ ion emission with λ = 13.4 nm may occurs with such a simplified and compact ECR source. The EUV emission of this particular line is of great interest for lithography applications.
Return on Investment from Training Programs and Intensive Services

This study includes the likelihood of finding a job and retaining employment as well as eligibility for unemployment benefits to estimate the return on investment (ROI) for both job training and intensive services programs. The augmented ROI for job training programs and intensive job services from California One-Stop Centers are positive. This suggests that these programs do provide benefits. The estimated augmented ROI for individuals enrolled in job training programs and intensive job services are similar. In contrast, traditional approaches that omit important employment characteristics significantly overestimate the ROI. Monte Carlo simulations show that changing program costs affect the augmented ROI for training programs but have minimal impact on the augmented ROI for intensive services.
Haplotypes in the Complement Factor H (CFH) Gene: Associations with Drusen and Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Background. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in the Western world, is a complex disease that affects people over 50 years old. The complement factor H (CFH) gene has been repeatedly shown to be a major factor in determining susceptibility to the advanced form of the condition. We aimed to better understand the functional role of this gene in the AMD disease process and assess whether it is associated with earlier forms of the disease. Methodology/ Principal Findings. We genotyped SNPs at the CFH gene locus in three independent populations with AMD: (a) extended families where at least 3 family members had AMD; (b) sporadic cases of advanced AMD and (c) cases from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). We investigated polymorphisms and haplotypes in and around the CFH gene to assess their role in AMD. CFH is associated with early/intermediate and advanced AMD in both familial and sporadic cases. In our populations, the CFH SNP, rs2274700, is most strongly associated with AMD and when incorporated into a haplotype with the Y402H SNP and rs1061147, the strongest association is observed (p,10 29 ). Conclusions/Significance. Our results, reproduced in three populations that represent the spectrum of AMD cases, provide evidence that the CFH gene is associated with drusen as well as with advanced AMD. We also identified novel susceptibility and protective haplotypes in the AMD populations.
Two methods for word inversion on the IBM 709: method 1

In some logical problems it is necessary or convenient to invert the bit structure of a word, i.e., replace bit i by bit n + 1 - i for i = 1, 2, ···, n, thus creating a mirror image. The method described here exploits the CAQ instruction of the IBM 709 (or 7090) to accomplish such an inversion rapidly (n = 36).
Role of instrument cleaning and maintenance in the development of diffuse lamellar keratitis.

Abstract Objective To determine if instrument cleaning techniques affect the rate of diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Design Retrospective case series. Participants Two hundred ten eyes of 109 patients. Methods A record review was performed of all patients who underwent LASIK at the Jules Stein Eye Institute from April 1 through June 24, 1999. During the first 6 weeks, the instruments used in LASIK surgery were cleaned according to our conventional protocol. At the end of this 6-week period, the cleaning protocol was modified and used for a subsequent 6-week period. For each eye during the two periods, the status of DLK on the first postoperative day was recorded. Main outcome measures Presence of DLK. Results During the first 6-week period, 118 eyes of 60 patients underwent LASIK surgery. In the subsequent 6 weeks, 92 eyes of 49 patients underwent LASIK surgery. The two groups included patients with similar demographic background: gender, age, and target correction. Diffuse lamellar keratitis was present in 13 of 118 eyes (11%) using our conventional protocol. In only 2 of 92 eyes (2%) did DLK develop after the protocol was modified. Using the chi-square test, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant ( P = 0.01). Conclusions Diffuse lamellar keratitis is a fairly uncommon phenomenon after LASIK surgery. Although the cause remains to be elucidated, these results demonstrated a reduced incidence of DLK associated with alteration of cleaning procedures and a decrease in stagnant instrument cleaning fluids. The authors recommend that refractive centers avoid the use of stagnant fluids in their instrument cleaning and sterilizing protocols to minimize the occurrence of DLK outbreaks.
Structure of the δ-opioid receptor bound to naltrindole

The X-ray crystal structure of the mouse δ-opioid receptor in complex with the subtype-selective antagonist naltrindole is reported. Four papers in this issue of Nature present the long-awaited high-resolution crystal structures of the four known opioid receptors in ligand-bound conformations. These G-protein-coupled receptors are the targets of a broad range of drugs, including painkillers, antidepressants, anti-anxiety agents and anti-addiction medications. Brian Kobilka’s group reports the crystal structure of the µ-opioid receptor bound to a morphinan antagonist and the δ-opioid receptor bound to naltrindole. Raymond Stevens’ group reports on the κ-opioid receptor bound to the selective antagonist JDTic, and the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor bound to a peptide mimetic. In an associated News and Views, Marta Filizola and Lakshmi Devi discuss the implications of these landmark papers for research on the mechanisms underlying receptor function and drug development. The opioid receptor family comprises three members, the µ-, δ- and κ-opioid receptors, which respond to classical opioid alkaloids such as morphine and heroin as well as to endogenous peptide ligands like endorphins. They belong to the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, and are excellent therapeutic targets for pain control. The δ-opioid receptor (δ-OR) has a role in analgesia, as well as in other neurological functions that remain poorly understood1. The structures of the µ-OR and κ-OR have recently been solved2,3. Here we report the crystal structure of the mouse δ-OR, bound to the subtype-selective antagonist naltrindole. Together with the structures of the µ-OR and κ-OR, the δ-OR structure provides insights into conserved elements of opioid ligand recognition while also revealing structural features associated with ligand-subtype selectivity. The binding pocket of opioid receptors can be divided into two distinct regions. Whereas the lower part of this pocket is highly conserved among opioid receptors, the upper part contains divergent residues that confer subtype selectivity. This provides a structural explanation and validation for the ‘message–address’ model of opioid receptor pharmacology4,5, in which distinct ‘message’ (efficacy) and ‘address’ (selectivity) determinants are contained within a single ligand. Comparison of the address region of the δ-OR with other GPCRs reveals that this structural organization may be a more general phenomenon, extending to other GPCR families as well.
"Imprinting" in nature.

Much laboratory research is based on the assumption that the learning of parental characteristics by young nidifugous birds is rooted on visual factors. Naturalistic observations of ground- and hole-nesting duck species, augmented by sound amplification equipment, indicate that hatchlings are exposed to the call of their mother for a relatively long period before they are exposed to the sight of her.
When Welfare Worked: A Community Approach to Welfare Reform

This article examines the implementation of welfare reform in Oregon from 1995–2001 and argues that the state of Oregon provided a model for comprehensive reform with a community approach to welfare provision. Utilizing the flexibility and resources made available under the Personal Responsibility Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Oregon launched an aggressive campaign to enlist community partners in moving welfare recipients into employment. The results were collaborative partnerships that achieved real resource sharing and staff integration through a commitment to consensus building among multiple stakeholders that gave meaning to the ideal of democratic policymaking. The benefits of such an approach to welfare recipients were evident in the range of services provided as well as reduced caseloads and high employment levels without the punitive threat of time limits. After 2001, however, the state fiscal crisis coupled with federal reauthorization proposals designed to restrict state flexibility threatened gains in community building.
SCHEDULING COSTS AND THE VALUE OF TRAVEL TIME

This paper analysises costs to workers arising from off peak work schedules. A discrete model of joint transportation mode and work start time choice is presented derived from mcfadden's conditional logit and tested logit formulations. Survey data, collected from the residents of 1111 vehicle owning households in Singapore in 1975 are used. The data collected include details of all journeys made during the 24 hour period prior to interview, as well as socio-economic data. Variables which define the following parameters are used in the analysis: travel cost; monthly personal income; cost of travel by mode divided by monthly income; in vehicle travel time; origin and destination work times; absolute value of difference between peak work time, start time and actual work start time; number of family members aged five or less; age and sex. The implications of these results upon transportation policy are discussed. Results indicate that transportation projects such as increases in road capacity, which may not reduce congestion levels, may be beneficial if workers are able to adjust their work start times toward the peak starting time. (TRRL)
Fate of Listeria monocytogenes and Pediococcal Starter Cultures During the Manufacture of Chicken Summer Sausage

Two formulations of chicken summer sausages [100% hand deboned chicken meat (HDCM) and 85% HDCM and 15% chicken hearts (HDCM-CH)] were prepared with a nonpediocin-producing (PED-) Pediococcus acidilactici starter culture and inoculated with 10(4) or 10(7) cfu of a five-strain mixture of Listeria monocytogenes/g of batter. Sausages were fermented to pH 5.0 (11 h), cooked to an internal temperature of 66.5 C, cold-showered, and stored at 4 C (60 days) and 30 C (7 days). For both formulations and inoculation levels, L. monocytogenes populations decreased 1.3 to 1.8 log10 cfu/g by the end of fermentation. No L. monocytogenes organisms were recovered from sausages (by enrichment) following the cook and shower or storage at 4 or 30 C. In contrast, P. acidilactici increased .7 to 1.2 log10 cfu/g during fermentation, and < 10(2) cfu/g remained after the cook and shower and storage at 4 and 30 C. In a second set of experiments, sausages (HDCM) were prepared with a PED- or a pediocin-producing (PED+) P. acidilactici starter culture and challenged with the L. monocytogenes mixture (10(7) cfu/g). The PED- culture reduced numbers of L. monocytogenes 1.2 log10 cfu/g during fermentation, whereas L. monocytogenes numbers declined 2.6 log10 cfu/g in the presence of the PED+ culture. Although acid production by both starter cultures was equivalent, greater inhibition of L. monocytogenes by the PED+ compared with the PED- starter culture was attributed to in situ production of pediocin. Pediococcal starter cultures and proper cooking eliminated L. monocytogenes from sausages and established that PED+ cultures provide an additional hurdle against poultry-related listeriosis.
EFFECT OF FEEDING ON SUCRASE PROCEEDING IN VIVO

Brush border sucrase (S) is derived from precursor sucrase-isomaltase (SI) by post-translational glycosylation and proteolysis. We have examined the effect of feeding on the rate at which the convrsion proceeds in vivo. Fasted )n = 9) and fed (n = 8) rats received a constant infusion of 3H-leucine for 1 to 6 h. Triton extracts of mucosal membranes were treated with purified anti-sucrase monoclonal antibody bound to sepharose. SI and S were separated by SDS-PACE, and the specific radioactivity (SR) of leucine in SI and S and mucosal free amino acids (F) was measured after isolation by ion-exchange chromatography. Leucine in SI attained an isotopic steady state by 1 hour and at plateau the ratio SR of SI/SR of F was 2.6 ± 0.3 (fasted) and 1.7 ± 0.1 (fed). Preliminary results suggest that the half-life of the SI to S conversion was 6.7 ° 0.6 h (fasted) and 5.6 ± 0.5 h (fed). We conclude that the regulation of the rate of SI processing may be of importance to the nutritional regulatio of the steady state concentration of sucrase. As such it provides a control step that is superimposed on the regulation of the transcription of the SI gene.
H(tla) system. Identification of two new loci, h-31 and h-32, and alleles.

Skin and tumor grafting experiments performed on F1 hybrid mice indicate that theH(Tla) histocompatibility system is composed of at least two genetic loci,H(Tla-1) andH(Tla-2), and that one of these loci,H(Tla-1), has at least three alleles. We suggest thatH(Tla-1) andH(Tla-2) be renamedH-31 andH-32, respectively.
Nonoperative treatment of major blunt renal lacerations with urinary extravasation.

AbstractPurpose: We determined whether nonoperative treatment of major renal lacerations with urinary extravasation adversely affects patient outcome.Materials and Methods: We reviewed all nonoperatively treated patients who presented between 1983 and 1994 with blunt renal trauma with major lacerations on initial staging computerized tomography. Patients with major lacerations associated with (31) and without (15) extravasation were compared for complications, blood transfusions and length of hospital stay.Results: Urinary extravasation spontaneously resolved in 27 of 31 patients (87.1%), while 4 (12.9%) required a ureteral stent for persistent extravasation. No complications occurred in patients without extravasation. Mean hospitalization was 8.3 and 7.7 days for patients with isolated renal injuries with and without extravasation, respectively. Blood transfusions were required in 4 patients with and none without extravasation.Conclusions: Nonoperative treatment of major renal lacerations with urinary ex...
Statistics of both optical and electrical noise in digital volume holographic data storage

The authors analyse the statistics of optical and electrical noise in holographic data storage and present closed form expressions of the threshold value and the bit-error-rate (BER). The results indicate that depending on the percentage of the two types of noise, the threshold value should be adjusted and the BER varies.
Performance of the instantaneous frequency based classifier distinguishing BFSK from QAM and PSK modulations for asynchronous sampling and slow and fast fading

In this paper we propose a feature to distinguish frequency from amplitude-phase digital modulations. We compare the performance of the feature where every symbol is sampled more than once to that where every symbol is sampled only once. The feature is based on the product of two consecutive signal values and on time averaging of the imaginary part of the product if a symbol is sampled more than once. First, the conditional probability density functions of the feature given the present modulation are determined. The central limit theorem for strictly stationary m-dependent sequences is used to obtain Gaussian approximations. Then thresholds are determined based on the minimization of the total probability of misclassification. Following that, effects of fast and slow fading, and of the symbol period and delay being non-integer multiples of sampling period on the performance are studied. In the course of doing that, the proposed classifier is compared to the maximum likelihood classifier and the wavelet based classifier using support vector machine.