cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hepatitis C Virus: Current therapeutic approaches

Therapeutic decisions in chronic HCV infection have been made difficult by the subclinical nature of most acute and chronic infections. This is because, in many cases, infections are not even detected unless anti-HCV or HCV RNA tests are performed (Section 1.6 and Ch. 19). This does not lessen the danger of chronic HCV, which often does not become symptomatic until the development of cirrhosis some 20 years following infection. Given the high morbidity and mortality associated with cirrhosis, combined with the insidious nature and variable progression of CLD, it is not surprising that so many chronically infected patients are not treated until liver disease is fairly advanced and considerable permanent damage is done. For example, patients that become symptomatic and then present with cirrhosis may already be in end-stage liver disease. Such patients are also at very high risk for the development of HCC (Chs. 4 and 6). Given these considerations, HCV is often not diagnosed for a long period after virus exposure, since patients are ‘well’ and do not seek medical help. This represents one of the major challenges in treating HCV infection. IFN-α is one of a family of naturally occurring glycoproteins that have both direct antiviral and immunomodulatory activities. Initially, IFN-α was obtained from leukocyte cultures in very limited quantities, but the availability of recombinant IFN-α in the 1980s finally permitted large-scale, controlled trials of its utility.
Interaction of neuronal nitric oxide synthase with alpha1-adrenergic receptor subtypes in transfected HEK-293 cells

Background The C-terminal four amino acids (GEEV) of human α1A-adrenergic receptors (ARs) have been reported to interact with the PDZ domain of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in a yeast two-hybrid system. The other two α1-AR subtypes have no sequence homology in this region, raising the possibility of subtype-specific protein-protein interactions.
Dynamic Finite Element Analysis of Cracked Bodies with Stationary Cracks

A dynamic finite element analysis utilizing a simple singular element (obtained from a degenerate eight-node isoparametric element) was used to investigate three elastodynamic problems with stationary cracks. The first problem, involving a centrally cracked rectangular bar (subjected to uniaxial tension with Heaviside-function time dependence) was analyzed in order to compare the present simple singular element formulation with previously developed higher order singular element formulations. In the second problem, a three-point bend specimen of birefringent material (under drop-weight testing) was analyzed to compare the dynamic stress intensity factors obtained from the present analysis with the experimental counterpart. Excellent agreement between the present results and those from previous investigations (both numerical as well as experimental) demonstrates the capability and reliability of this simple singular element formulation for solving fracture dynamics problems with stationary cracks. The third problem, involving a three-point bend specimen of A533B steel, suggests a potential application of the present method in instrumented impact tests.
Variational methods for phononic calculations

Abstract Three fundamental variational principles used for solving elastodynamic eigenvalue problems are studied within the context of elastic wave propagation in periodic composites (phononics). We study the convergence of the eigenvalue problems resulting from the displacement Rayleigh quotient, the stress Rayleigh quotient and the mixed quotient. The convergence rates of the three quotients are found to be related to the continuity and differentiability of the density and compliance variation over the unit cell. In general, the mixed quotient converges faster than both the displacement Rayleigh and the stress Rayleigh quotients, however, there exist special cases where either the displacement Rayleigh or the stress Rayleigh quotient shows the exact same convergence as the mixed-method. We show that all methods converge faster for smoother material property variations, but when density variation is rough, the difference between the mixed quotient and stress Rayleigh quotient is higher and similarly, when compliance variation is rough, the difference between the mixed quotient and displacement Rayleigh quotient is higher. Since eigenvalue problems such as those considered in this paper tend to be highly computationally intensive, it is expected that these results will lead to fast and efficient algorithms in the areas of phononics and photonics.
Soil Moisture Memory in Climate Models

Water balance considerations at the soil surface lead to an equation that relates the autocorrelation of soil moisture in climate models to (1) seasonality in the statistics of the atmospheric forcing, (2) the variation of evaporation with soil moisture, (3) the variation of runoff with soil moisture, and (4) persistence in the atmospheric forcing, as perhaps induced by land atmosphere feedback. Geographical variations in the relative strengths of these factors, which can be established through analysis of model diagnostics and which can be validated to a certain extent against observations, lead to geographical variations in simulated soil moisture memory and thus, in effect, to geographical variations in seasonal precipitation predictability associated with soil moisture. The use of the equation to characterize controls on soil moisture memory is demonstrated with data from the modeling system of the NASA Seasonal-to-Interannual Prediction Project.
A Conductivity Based Microfluidic Flow Sensor

A conductivity based on-chip flow sensor is introduced to measure the velocity of liquid-gas interface in microchannels for lab-on-a-chip applications. This sensor is used to evaluate the performance of planar electrokinetic micropumps formed on hybrid poly-di-methyl-siloxane (PDMS)-glass platform. In this study, the micropump thickness is varied between 3.5 and 10 microns, and the externally applied electric field of electrokinetic pump is ranged from 100 V/mm to 200 V/mm. For all channel dimensions and for all electric fields, fairly repeatable flow results are obtained from the speed of liquid-gas interface. Flow results obtained from this interface tracking method are compared to those of other existing flow measuring technique. The maximum error of this micro flow sensor is less than 5%, even in ultra low flow velocity.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Microstructure, ontogeny, and evolution of scale surfaces in xenosaurid lizards.

Both scanning electron and light microscopy were used to examine the epidermal structure of scales taken from several ontogenetic stages of Xenosaurus grandis and Shinisaurus crocodilurus. In addition, scales from all xenosaurid species were examined by scanning electron microscopy to determine scale surface variation among genera, species, and subspecies. A varied and phylogenetically informative morphology characterizes the scale surfaces of xenosaurid lizards. Scale surface morphology is conservative among the species and subspecies of Xenosaurus, but is more variable between the two xenosaurid genera. Their scale surfaces are characterized by folds in the oberhautchen, beta, mesos, and alpha epidermal layers, forming polygonal ridges of a type previously described for the Iguania. The three species of Xenosaurus possess lenticular scale organs, whereas Shinisaurus has scale organs with spikes (bristles). The spikes of Shinisaurus are formed by the beta and oberhautchen layers, with the alpha layer forming a dome-shaped cap over a dermal papilla. Shinisaurus crocodilurus exhibits a dramatic ontogenetic change in scale surface morphology, that is here reported for the first time in any lizard. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The current management of HBV drug resistance

Lamivudine and adefovir have potent inhibitory effects on hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. Although short-term therapy is feasible in a selected subgroup of patients, prolonged therapy is required for sustained suppression in the majority of patients. However, HBV species with mutations in the tyrosine-methionine-aspartate-aspartate (YMDD) locus of the HBV RNA-dependent DNA polymerase (rtM204 I/V) conferring resistance to lamivudine may emerge after 9-10 months therapy. The incidence increases with duration of therapy up to 70% after 5 years lamivudine therapy. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevation and HBV DNA rebound ( I log) occur in >90% of the patients with rtM204 I/V during continued lamivudine therapy. Marked flare of serum ALT may occur, sometimes severe, and may be complicated with decompensation or even fatality. The initial clinical and histologic improvement may also reverse after emergence of rtM204 IN Studies do suggest that stopping seems better than continuing lamivudine therapy. Limited data show that interferon therapy seems ineffective. Add-on adefovir therapy is effective in suppressing rtM204 I/V in both compensated and decompensated patients. Switching to adefovir monotherapy is effective and safe even in cirrhotic patients with decompensation. The overall incidence of adefovirresistant rtN236T and A181V is low, being 0 after one year and 5.9% after 3 years' therapy. The impact of adefovir resistance is less clear but is responsive to lamivudine therapy. In conclusion, monitoring of viral breakthrough to start effective intervention is mandatory during direct antiviral therapy.
Canonical correlation analysis of residential and vocational outcomes following psychiatric rehabilitation

Abstract This analysis uses canonical correlation techniques to explore client outcomes following psychosocial rehabilitation services in two rehabilitation areas: vocational and residential. At issue are the ways in which these two outcomes are affected by a series of eight client characteristics and service delivery features. The overarching question is the effectiveness of the program in establishing independence vocationally and residentially, and whether the same set of factors influences these two outcomes for persons with mental illness. Subjects were 212 ex-clients of a psychosocial rehabilitation agency who were working six months after leaving the program. The analysis derived two canonical functions both of which were significant. Canonical loadings and cross loadings indicated that client level of functioning and program tenure loaded most strongly with residential status on the first canonical variate while education loaded most strongly with salary on the second. These results support the notions that different predictors account for the variance associated with different outcomes following psychosocial rehabilitation. Discussion of the relevance of strong predictor variables highlights ways they can impact program design. Finally, the usefulness of canonical correlation in longitudinal program evaluation research is explored.
Stimulation of Thyroidal Thiol Endopeptidases by Thyrotropin

Rabbit thyroids contain cathepsin D (CD) and several thiol endopeptidases including cathepsin B and three newly described enzymes (cathepsins 180K, 110K, and 45K). The present paper assesses the relative physiological importance of these enzymes in thyroglobulin degradation in rabbits. Thyroidal thiol endopeptidase [thiol thyroglobulin hydrolase (thiol TgH)] activity increased in the absence of changes in CD activity in animals treated with 10 U bovine TSH. Peak enzyme activity occurred 24 h after injection of hormone. After 20 U bovine TSH, thiol endopeptidase activity increased by approximately 100%, whereas CD increased by 50%. The increase in thiol enzyme activity was attributed both to cathepsin B and to the other thiol endopeptidases. The lysosomal acid hydrolases acid phosphatase and dipeptidyl peptidase II were unaffected by TSH at either dose level. Thiol TgH activity, but not CD activity, was decreased in thyroids of rabbits treated with T4 [5 micrograms/(100 g BW X day)] for 1 week. All thyroidal acid hydrolases examined were suppressed in animals receiving T4 for 3 weeks. Thiol TgH activity was localized primarily to a lysosome-enriched fraction of thyroid homogenates. Our results suggest that the thiol proteases probably are the most important endopeptidases in thyroglobulin hydrolysis in vivo and that their activities are influenced by TSH.
Photochemical Diels-Alder addition of N-methyltriazolinedione to phenanthrene

Abstract Visible irradiation of solutions of N-methyltriazolinedione and phenanthrene results in several Diels-Alder type adducts. The mechanism for these photoadditions is discussed.
Mechanical characterization of glass/polyimide microjoints fabricated using cw fiber and diode lasers

This paper discusses the laser-irradiated microjoints between glass and polyimide for applications in neural implants. To facilitate bonding between them, a thin titanium film with a thickness of approximately 0.2 μm was deposited on glass wafers using the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process. Two sets of samples were fabricated where the bonds were created using diode and fiber lasers. The samples were subjected to tension using a microtester for bond strength measurements. The failure strengths of the bonds generated using fiber laser are quite consistent, while a wide variation of failure strengths are observed for the bonds generated with diode laser. Few untested samples were sectioned and the microstructures near the bond areas were studied using an optical microscope. The images revealed the presence of a sharp crack in the glass substrate near the bond generated with the diode laser. However, no such crack was observed in the samples made using fiber laser. To investigate the reasons behind such discrepancy in bond quality further, uncoupled three-dimensional finite element analyses (FEA) were conducted only for the samples created using diode laser. First, the transient heat diffusion-based FEA was conducted by using the laser power intensity distribution as a time dependent heat source. This model calculates the temperature distribution within the substrates as a function of time. Next, the structural model predicts the amount of residual stresses developed in the joint system as it is cooled down to room temperature. The out-of-plane normal component of residual stresses was within the failure strength range of glass that may have caused fracture initiation in the substrate.
The development and migration of large multipolar neurons into the cochlear nucleus of the North American opossum.

We have studied the maturation of the inferior colliculus and cochlear nuclei of the North American opossum with particular emphasis on the large multipolar neurons of the cochlear nucleus. These neurons include the principal and giant cells of the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) and the large neurons of the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN), all of which can be labelled byhorseradish peroxidase (HRP) injections into the contralateral inferior colliculus (IC). The size of these neurons, their characteristic Nissl patterns, and their labelling density after injections into the IC render them distinguishable from other neurons in this nuclei, even in young animals. In Nissl-stained sections of newborn opossums, a band of horizontally oriented neurons can be identified dorsomedial to the vestibular nerve root. This band extends from an apparent cytogenetic zone close to the sulcus limitans, to, but not within, the presumptive cochlear nucleus. Between birth and estimated postnatal day 22 (EPND 22) the band shifts laterally, eventually becoming incorporated into the cochlear nucleus. Many neurons in this band have perinuclear caps of Nissl substance similar to those present in the principal cells of the adult DCN. Injections of HRP into the IC as early as EPND 5 (17 days after conception) labelled neurons in the band referred to above but not in the presumptive cochlear nucleus. By EPND 15, labelled cells were clustered mainly within the nucleus proper. Most of these cells were located in the DCN, but a few were scattered in the dorsocentral VCN. Consistent labelling of small neurons in VCN was not obtained until sometime later. From EPND 15 to EPND 20 most of the labelled cells in DCN reoriented in the vertical plane, aligned in layer II, and differentiated into principal neurons. Some, however, remained deep to layer II and differentiated into giant neurons. The heavily labelled cells in VCN differentiated into large neurons. Our results suggest that the large multipolar neurons of the nucleus are generated in a cytogenetic zone medial to the rhombic lip and that they subsequently migrate laterally, in a band, to reach their adult locations inthe nucleus. It is during this migratory stage that their axons reach the inferior colliculus.
The effect of thermal history on the ionic conductivity of Pb(II)-β″-alumina

Pb(II)-β″-alumina is one of several divalent isomorphs of the well-known fast ion conductor, Na(I)-β″-alumina. Although the ionic conductivities of Ca(II), Ba(II), and Sr(II)-β″-alumina are comparable, past measurements have indicated that Pb(II)-β″-alumina has a much nigher conductivity. We have found that the ionic conductivity of Pb(II)-β″-alumina is very sensitive to the thermal history of the sample. The conductivity decreases with annealing time following rapid cooling from 400°C. Differential scanning calorimetry results indicate that a structural transformation occurs during the annealing.
Reliability-based measures of structural control robustness

Abstract Because of the uncertainty inherent in engineering structures, consistent probabilistic stability/performance measures are essential to accurately assessing and comparing the robustness of structural control systems. An approach is presented herein for calculating such probabilistic measures for a controlled structure. First and second order reliability methods (FORM/SORM) are shown to be appropriate for the required calculations. The concepts are illustrated through several examples of seismically excited structures with active protective systems.
Model Tests of Hydraulic Performance of Pit 6 Dam Stilling Basin

Pit 6 Dam, located on the Pit River in northern California, was constructed by Pacific Gas and Electric Company in San Francisco in 1965 for hydroelectric power generation. The gross head of the hydroelectric installation is 48.5 m for a rated generating capacity of 89 MW. Flow over the ogee spillway is regulated by two radial gates, and it discharges into a 33.5-m-wide and 19.5-m-long stilling basin. Since completion of the dam, there have been chronic problems with the floor blocks, some of which were dislodged more than once. To elucidate the primary cause of floor block failures and develop a new type of block, a 1:28-scale undistorted hydraulic model was constructed, and direct measurements of the longitudinal and lateral components of the forces acting on the model floor blocks were taken using a load cell. Extremely large fluctuating loads acting on the existing blocks in the lateral direction were found to be the primary cause of the block failures. Triangular hollow blocks, which substantially reduce the lateral loads, were then developed using the model.
A theorem on single sample confidence intervals

A theorem concerning the existence of confidence intervals for estimation based on single observations is established. The theorem extends and completes a previously established result. It leads insight into some funadamental theoretical aspects of the nature of decision making.
Nanostructured magnetic films for extremely high density recording

Abstract This paper presents recent results on high coercivity, nanocrystalline magnetic films. Elementary models for magnetization decay, thermal stability, and noise are discussed along with requirements on grain size and anisotropy for recording at extremely high areal densities (approaching 100 gigabits per square inch). Characterization of nanocrystalline films by activation-volume measurements and its relationship to nanostructure are emphasized. A number of recently discovered films with high potential for future extremely high density recording are discussed.
New topology for spatial infinity

For spatial infinity we introduce the topology of a projective Lorentz sphere. This topology is indicated by the reduced variety of physically admissible solutions of both the electromagnetic and the gravitational field equations. In this topology past and future are fused, so that the notions of cause and effect lose their intuitive meanings.
Periodic solar EUV flux monitored near Venus

A detector sharing the orbital rate of Venus has a unique perspective on solar periodicities. Fourier analysis of the 8.6 year record of solar EUV output gathered by the Langmuir probe on Pioneer Venus Orbiter shows the influences of global oscillation modes located in the convective envelope and in the radiative interior. Seven of the eight lowest angular harmonic r-mode familes are detected by their rotation rates which differ almost unmeasurably from ideal theoretical values. This determines a mean sidereal rotation rate for the envelope of 457.9 + or - 2.0 nHz which corresponds to a period of 25.3 days. Many frequencies are aliased at + or - 106 nHz by modulation from the lowest angular harmonic r-mode in the envelope.
Motifs, Metaphors and Mythomoteurs: Some Reflections on Medieval South Asian Ethnicity

. This article takes account of medieval literary sources in Sinhala Sri Lanka and Tamil South India to describe the existence of notions of ethnic loyalty and ethnic categorisation in premodern societies. Literary tropes such as metaphors and motifs in the two cultural areas are discussed in detail and placed in the context of sociological concepts such as lateral and vertical ethnie. In doing so the argument is made that there have been forms of politicised ethnic solidarity in the past, and that these forms are parallel to modem nationalism.
GABAergic transmission to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons is regulated by GnRH in a concentration-dependent manner engaging multiple signaling pathways.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are the central regulators of fertility. GnRH stimulates or inhibits GnRH neuronal activity depending on dose. The mechanisms for these actions remain unknown. We hypothesized GnRH acts in part by altering fast synaptic transmission to GnRH neurons. GABAergic and glutamatergic postsynaptic currents (PSCs), both of which can excite these neurons, were recorded from GnRH neurons in brain slices from adult intact and orchidectomized (ORX) males. ORX enhanced the frequency of GABA transmission to GnRH neurons, but had no effect on glutamatergic transmission. Effects of ORX on GABAergic transmission were reversed by estradiol replacement, suggesting GABA is a mediator of steroid feedback in males. GABAergic neurons express type-1 GnRH receptor (GnRHR-1). Low GnRH (20 nm) reduced GABAergic PSC frequency in GnRH neurons from both ORX and intact mice. High GnRH (2 μm) had no effect on either GABAergic or glutamatergic transmission to GnRH neurons. To investigate mechanisms mediating low-dose GnRH suppression of GABAergic transmission, GABAergic PSCs were recorded after arresting Gαi activity with pertussis toxin (PTX). PTX abolished the suppressive effect of low GnRH. Moreover, PTX uncovered a stimulatory effect of high GnRH on GABAergic transmission. These data suggest low-dose GnRH suppresses GnRH firing rate in part by decreasing GABAergic transmission to the GnRH neurons, independent of gonadal hormone milieu. Low-dose GnRH appears to exert the suppressive effect by activating GnRHR-I coupled to Gαi. The concentration-dependent effects of GnRH may be mediated in part by changes in affinity of GnRH to GnRHR-I coupled to different Gα proteins.
Strategic groups: One perspective on integrating strategic and group therapies

Abstract The authors describe a short-term, strategic, solution-focused self-esteem group in an outpatient mental health setting. Training, supervision, and outcome issues arising from integrating the two therapies are addressed
Review of State Medication Policies/Guidelines Regarding Psychotropic Medications in Public Schools

It is currently estimated that up to 6 million children take psychotropic medications for the treatment of mental health problems. The highest prevalence rates (50–76 %) are typically found among students with special needs, especially among those with ADHD and emotional disturbance. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require medications be administered by schools whenever it is deemed necessary for the child to have access to educational services. However, these requirements do not extend to all students, nor do they provide guidance regarding the safest and most efficacious manner in which psychotropic medications should be administered. The authors reviewed existing state medication policies and guidelines to assess the level of guidance currently provided to school staff. Results showed the vast majority of states (48) provided guidance related to the administration of medications to students, with slightly fewer (44) states discussing required documentation procedures. Surprisingly, only 15 states addressed monitoring students for adverse side effects of medications, and even fewer (11) states specifically discussed psychotropic medication in their policies/guidelines. The vast majority (42) of states also addressed requirements for the safe and proper storage of medications, while slightly more than half of all states (31) provided any guidance regarding training of unlicensed personnel (e.g., secretaries) who frequently administer medications to students. The authors highlight several model guidelines/policies and review recommendations for best practice.
Architectures of Memory

Cities, write Lawrence Vale and Thomas Campanella, are among humankind’s most durable artifacts.1 They are also among its most vulnerable spaces, subject to the destructive forces of nature, war, disease, and terror, all of which are mediated and magnified by the structural violence of racism, sectarian exclusion, and exploitation. As I write, on an early September day in balmy southern California, a distance of nearly two thousand miles separates me from the devastation of New Orleans. In a few keystrokes, however, I am a witness to the floods and corpses, to the looters and evacuees, to an irate mayor and to more than a few befuddled federal officials. I am hopeful that, by the time this issue of The Public Historian has been released, the worst of the devastation will have been contained and basic services restored to that city, though the downsizing of our government does not give me comfort. For now, I can only ponder the forms that New Orleans’ resilience might take. Are there lessons to be drawn from the aftermath of the similarly destructive 1927 flood, which led to federal flood control programs? How will the environmental history of the Gulf be engaged in the next round of regional planning? Of the tens of thousands of displaced residents, disproportionately poor and African American, how many will return? Who, among the many families, partners, and friends torn from each other, will be reconnected? How will the survivors mourn their losses? And how will New Orleans’ dispersed residents remember their city?
A scientific synthesis and assessment of the Arctic Carbon Cycle

The Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP), along with the Climate and Cryosphere (CliC) Project and the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC), sponsored the Arctic Carbon Cycle Assessment Workshop, at the Red Lion Hotel in Seattle, Wash., between 27 February and 1 March 2007. The workshop was held in a general effort toward the scientific synthesis and assessment of the Arctic system carbon cycle, as well as to generate feedback on the working draft of an assessment document. The initial assessment was prepared by the Arctic carbon cycle assessment writing team, which is led by A. David McGuire (University of Alaska Fairbanks) and includes Leif Anderson (Goteborg University, Sweden), Torben Christensen (Lund University, Sweden), Scott Dallimore (Natural Resources Canada), Laodong Guo (University of Southern Mississippi), Martin Heimann (Max Planck Institute, Germany), Robie MacDonald (Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canada), and Nigel Roulet (McGill University, Canada). The workshop brought together leading researchers in the fields of terrestrial, marine, and atmospheric science to report on and discuss the current state of knowledge on contemporary carbon stocks and fluxes in the Artie and their potential responses to a changing climate. The workshop was attended by 35 scientists representing institutions from 10 countries in addition to two representatives of the sponsor agencies (John Calder for AMAP and Diane Verseghy for CliC).
A 55-nm, 0.86-Volt operation, 125MHz high speed, 75uA/MHz low power, wide voltage supply range 2M-bit split-gate embedded Flash

Firstly a high-speed and low-power sense amplifier is implemented in 90-nm embedded Flash (64KX32) design based on split-gate Flash bitcell with good correlation of 90uA/MHz power and 50MHz speed in wide voltage supply range (VDD=0.86~1.32V, and VD33=1.6~3.6V). It shows less process dependent speed by design approach. In further 55-nm node, it demonstrates competitive features by post layout simulation with more competition of faster operation speed up to 125MHz (VDD=1.08V) but still keep merits of low-power read (75uA/MHz, 32 bits) and wide range supplies on both read and write (VDD=0.86~1.32V, and VD33=1.6~3.6V).
Genotyping of clinical Serratia marcescens isolates: a comparison of PCR-based methods

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based procedures of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and repetitive element (RE)-based PCR were used to amplify total DNA prepared from each of 62 clinical Serratia marcescens isolates. Three different random primers, designated 1060, 1254 and 1283, were used individually in RAPD-PCR. Primers representing enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) sequences, extragenic palindromic (REP) elements, and polymorphic GC-rich repetitive sequences (PGRS) constituted the repetitive element-PCR. We were able to generate 40, 40 and 58 genotypic groupings using the 1060, 1254 and 1283 RAPD primers, respectively. Using the ERIC, REP and PGRS primers, 19, 54 and 60 unique genotypic profiles were yielded, respectively. The PGRS primers, which were developed to amplify GC-rich repetitive sequences in the genome of Mycobacteria, were the most discriminatory. These data indicate that both of these PCR-based approaches are a valid means of discriminating strain differences among isolates of S. marcescens and the amount of differentiation depends on the primer used. These techniques should prove useful for routine surveillance or in examining outbreaks of S. marcescens in clinical settings.
Rational Design of Protein-Based MRI Contrast Agents

We describe the rational design of a novel class of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents with engineered proteins (CAi.CD2, i = 1, 2,..., 9) chelated with gadolinium. The design of protein-based contrast agents involves creating high-coordination Gd3+ binding sites in a stable host protein using amino acid residues and water molecules as metal coordinating ligands. Designed proteins show strong selectivity for Gd3+ over physiological metal ions such as Ca2+, Zn2+, and Mg2+. These agents exhibit a 20-fold increase in longitudinal and transverse relaxation rate values over the conventional small-molecule contrast agents, e.g., Gd−DTPA (diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid), used clinically. Furthermore, they exhibit much stronger contrast enhancement and much longer blood retention time than Gd−DTPA in mice. With good biocompatibility and potential functionalities, these protein contrast agents may be used as molecular imaging probes to target disease markers, thereby extending applications of MRI.
Gain characteristic of continuous-wave InGaN multiple quantum well laser diodes during life testing

A method to measure small changes in gain and distributed loss in laser diodes during life testing is described. The evolution of the gain spectrum was computed by measuring the true spontaneous emission spectrum and the lasing wavelength of the diode with time. This method was applied to investigate the gain spectrum of InGaN multiple quantum well ridge waveguide laser diodes operating under continuous-wave (cw) conditions during diode life testing. During lasing there were large changes in the light output power versus current characteristic, but no significant change in the forward current-voltage characteristic. No catastrophic failure occurred; the light output power decreased continuously during life testing until the device stopped lasing under cw conditions. We observed an increase in pulsed threshold current of 15(±1)%, a decrease in gain at fixed current of 11(±2)%, and a slight increase in the total optical losses of 4(±2)%. These changes occurred primarily while the device was lasing under cw ...
Reaction of lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase with a water soluble substrate: effects of surfactants.

The reaction of fatty acid esters of p-nitrophenol, including the butyrate ester (PNPB) with lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) has already been described (Bonelli, F.S. and Jonas, A. (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 14723–14728) as a means to investigate the events at the active site of LCAT in the absence of interfacial interactions. Since various surfactants at low concentrations are known to affect the reaction of LCAT with particulate substrates, we set out to analyze their effects on the enzyme in solution using the PNPB substrate to monitor enzyme activity. All the surfactants studied by us (sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), dodecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (DTAB), sodium laurate, sodium cholate, Triton X-100, and BIGCHAP) were able to interact with LCAT below their critical micellar concentrations. The ionic detergents caused inhibition of LCAT at concentrations ranging from 10−4 to 10−3 M, whereas the two nonionic detergents actually activated the enzyme in a similar concentration range. From the kinetic constants, the patterns of inhibition, and the well documented effects of the detergents on other proteins, we propose that SDS binds cooperatively to LCAT and elicits inhibitory structural changes; laurate and cholate bind to specific sites either in the active site cavity or in negative effector sites elsewhere; and the nonionic detergents may produce a slight interfacial activation of the phospholipase reaction near their critical micellar concentrations.
Relationships between cerebral blood flow velocities and arterial pressures during intra-aortic counterpulsation

Abstract Objective: To determine the effects of intra-aortic counter-pulsation (IABP) on cerebral blood flow velocity. Design: Prospective self-controlled study. Setting: University hospital surgical intensive care unit. Participants: Nineteen cardiac surgical patients requiring perioperative IABP assistance. Interventions: Simultaneous recording of transcranial Doppler middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity and arterial pressure in response to changes in the magnitude of augmentation and trigger ratio. Measurements and Main Results: Instantaneous cerebral blood flow velocities correlated with arterial pressures during IABP (r = 0.650) at different magnitudes of augmentation and trigger ratios. The increase in arterial pressure during balloon inflation was associated with an increase in cerebral blood flow velocity, and the decrease in arterial pressure in response to balloon deflation was associated with a decrease in cerebral blood flow velocity that was dependent on the magnitude of augmentation. Different magnitudes of augmentation or trigger ratios had no effect on peak systolic cerebral blood flow velocity, mean cerebral blood flow velocity, mean arterial pressure, or the mean velocity-to-pressure ratio. Instantaneous cerebral blood flow velocity to arterial pressure ratios were lowest in response to balloon deflation at the time of pre-ejection. Conclusions: IABP modified the phasic profile of cerebral blood flow to reflect the arterial pressure waveform without affecting mean cerebral blood flow velocity. Peak systolic cerebral blood flow velocity was maintained in augmented beats despite the decreased systolic arterial pressure associated with afterload reduction. The acute decrease in cerebral blood flow velocity at pre-ejection was balanced by increased cerebral blood flow velocity during balloon inflation in diastole.
Converted T Phases Recorded on Hawaii from Polynesian Nuclear Tests: A Preliminary Report

We present a preliminary study of Twaves from Polynesian nuclear tests at Mururoa, recorded on digital stations of the Hawaii Volcano Observatory network, following their conversion to seismic waves at the southern shore of the Island of Hawaii, and subsequent propagation to the recording stations. We show that seismograms are composed of several packets, which can be interpreted as resulting fromT → P and T → Sconversions, and which feature distinct spectral characteristics. As the distance from the shoreline to the station increases, the relative importance of the several wave packets changes; a prominent shadow for T → P is found at 8–12 km from the shore. This pattern is affected by the local crustal structure; in a favorable case, propagation in deep, low-attenuation layers resulted in a clear record as far as 76 km from the shoreline. While these results are generally robust, they can be moderately affected by a change of location of the source inside Mururoa Atoll.
A Causal Model of Adolescent Depression

We examined how family strengths, parent-adolescent communication, self-esteem, loneliness, age, and gender interrelate, and how this interaction influences depression in adolescents. The data were collected on a written questionnaire completed by 156 adolescents who were attending public schools in four communities in the midwestern United States. We developed a causal model to explicate the relationships among the variables hypothesized to affect adolescent depression and analyzed the data using path analysis via the LISREL VII program. Results showed a good fit of the model to the data. Loneliness and self-esteem had a direct effect on adolescent depression. Self-esteem had an indirect effect on depression through loneliness. Age directly and indirectly influenced depression through loneliness. Gender was significantly related to depression through self-esteem. Family strengths indirectly affected depression through self-esteem.
The first total synthesis of the natural product angoluvarin

The total synthesis of angoluvarin, a member of the dihydrochalcone family of natural products, is reported. Starting with 2-bromophenol, the synthesis was accomplished in eight steps with an overall yield of 2%. This represents the first reported synthesis of angoluvarin.
Spectroscopic spin-boson model in the adiabatic limit: Application to optical line shapes.

A mapping of the spin-boson model to problems concerning nuclear dynamics on two nonradiatively coupled excited electronic potential surfaces is solved in the adiabatic or low oscillator frequency limit. Emphasis is placed on application of the theory to optical line shapes associated with electronic absorption and resonance Raman processes. The solution is in the form of a one-dimensional quadrature, even in the multimode case. The validity of the solution is checked by comparison to exact results obtainable in the single-mode problem. Then, two prototypical multimode coupling scenarios are investigated with the model. Finally, it is pointed out that a much more flexible class of solutions can be obtained by a straightforward extension of the theory developed here. In fact, the influence of an adiabatic bath on the spectroscopic dynamics of an arbitrary system can be included by computing the quantum dynamics of the system for a family of potentials and averaging this dynamics appropriately.
Understanding Eocene primate palaeobiology using a comprehensive analysis of living primate ecology, biology and behaviour

The comparative method is central to interpretations of Eocene primate palaeobiology. This method rests upon a thorough study of analogous living forms. With a rapidly increasing knowledge of such forms, most notably the Malagasy lemurs, our ability to advance the study of Eocene primate ecology, biology and behaviour far exceeds that of even just a few years ago. Here we present such a comparison. Based on our data collected from both living lemurs and extant lemur skeletal specimens, we are able to make a number of comparisons that provide insight into middle Eocene primate ecology and palaeobiology. At the Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar, omnivorous living ring-tailed lemurs that feed on large, hard and tough fruits display a pattern of frequent post-canine tooth wear laterality (62 %) when compared to sympatric, folivorous Verreaux’s sifaka (4 %). Our results indicate that Notharctus does not display a high frequency of tooth wear laterality (7 %), indicating folivory without processing large, hard fruits with its postcanines. Our data on Notharctus tooth wear also indicate, similar to living ring-tailed lemurs at Beza Mahafaly, that numerous individuals (21 %) survived long enough to experience heavy tooth wear, contrary to the assumption that heavy tooth wear leads to the rapid death of the individual. Finally, our data on trauma and injury from a living lemur population suggest that the reported wrist injury in Darwinius masillae (i.e. “Ida”) did not necessarily lead to her death, as numerous ring-tailed lemurs at Beza Mahafaly survive with similar or even more traumatic injuries and maintain the ability to climb. Thus, our data from living primates provide a broad comparative framework for interpreting the ecology, biology and behaviour of Eocene forms.
RNA sequence and transcriptional properties of the 3' end of the Newcastle disease virus genome.

Abstract The 3′ end of the genomic RNA of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) has been sequenced and the leader RNA defined. Using hybridization to a 3′-end-labeled genome, leader RNA species from in vitro transcription reactions and from infected cell extracts were found to be 47 and 53 nucleotides long. In addition, the start site of the 3′-proximal mRNA was determined by sequence analysis of in vitro [β-32P]GTP-labeled transcription products. The genomic sequence extending beyond the leader region demonstrated an open reading frame for at least 42 amino acids and probably represents the amino terminus of the nucleocapsid protein (NP). The terminal 8 nucleotides of the NDV genome were identical to those of measles virus and Sendai virus while the sequence of the distal half of the leader region was more similar to that of vesicular stomatitis virus. These data argue for strong evolutionary relatedness between the paramyxovirus and rhabdovirus groups.
The Context of Undergraduate Teaching and Learning

Why don’t more liberals care about ideological imbalances on university faculties? The answer lies less in our “politics”--as traditionally understood--than in our professional culture, which privileges research over teaching. If we truly respected and embraced the teaching function, we would seek to expose our students to a wider array of faculty opinions. So long as teaching retains its low value, however, ideological diversity will not be valued either.
Immunohistochemical Demonstration of Basement Membrane Collagen in Normal Human Skin and in Psoriasis

Antibodies prepared against the collagen C-chain derived from human placenta specifically stain the epidermal basement membrane of normal human skin as well as the basement membrane surrounding the skin appendages and capillaries. Using the antibodies, it was observed that all basement membranes in untreated psoriatic plaques appear fragmented and separated into several layers. The results suggest that psoriatic lesions are associated with a general loss of basement membranc integrity which may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Reflection of Electromagnetic Waves from a Rough Surface

It is shown that in the small‐wavelength limit the cross section per unit area for backscattering of electromagnetic waves from a rough reflecting surface is given by dσB/dΩ=½P(ψ), where P(ψ)=the probability that the normal to the surface makes an angle ψ with respect to a reference surface. This formula was previously stated without proof in a paper by Salpeter and Treiman. For the special case of a Gaussian distribution, this result corrects a formula previously derived by Davies, and agrees with the results of Ruffine.
Chronic venous insufficiency and venous leg ulceration

Abstract Venous ulcers are the most common form of leg ulcers. Venous disease has a significant impact on quality of life and work productivity. In addition, the costs associated with the long-term care of these chronic wounds are substantial. Although the exact pathogenic steps leading from venous hypertension to venous ulceration remain unclear, several hypotheses have been developed to explain the development of venous ulceration. A better understanding of the current pathophysiology of venous ulceration has led to the development of new approaches in its management. New types of wound dressings, topical and systemic therapeutic agents, surgical modalities, bioengineered tissue, matrix materials, and growth factors are all novel therapeutic options that may be used in addition to the "gold standard," compression therapy, for venous ulcers. This review discusses current aspects of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic assessment, and current therapeutic options for chronic venous insufficiency and venous ulceration. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;44:401-21.) Learning objective: At the conclusion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with the 3 main types of lower extremity ulcers and should improve their understanding of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic assessment, and current therapies for chronic venous insufficiency and venous ulcers.
Bacterial Blight of Geranium: A History of Diagnostic Challenges

Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) have been an important part of greenhouse potted plant and bedding plant production for almost a century. Cultivars produced by vegetative propagation and by true seeds are grown and sold worldwide. In 1996, the wholesale value of geraniums exceeded $205 million in the United States alone (2). Pelargonium species are affected by a number of fungal diseases, including rust (Puccinia pelargonii-zonalis), gray mold (Botrytis cinerea), and root rot (Pythium spp.). Several bacteria and numerous viruses also cause diseases on geranium. Indeed, the most destructive disease of geraniums is bacterial blight (Xanthomonas campestris pv. pelargonii). Although hybrid geraniums grown from seed are susceptible to bacterial blight, it is the vegetatively propagated cultivars of florists’ geranium (P. × hortorum) and ivy geranium (P. peltatum) that are most commonly affected, because the causal organism inhabits the vascular tissue of infected plants and is carried in the cuttings. Munnecke (22) and Nichols (24) estimated 10 to 15% annual losses due to bacterial blight in the 1950s and 1960s, and such losses continue today (22,24). These loss figures are somewhat misleading because they are based on the industry-wide production of geraniums. In individual greenhouse operations, entire geranium crops have been destroyed by this disease. The reputations of several specialty propagators of Pelargonium have been ruined or severely damaged when these growers unknowingly sold infected cuttings and distributed them throughout the bedding plant industry. Despite efforts to eliminate this disease from geranium production systems, it continues to occur annually.