cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Los estándares laborales y el Área de Libre Comercio de las Américas

The Miami Summit launching the Free Trade Area of the Americas process recognized that free markets and free societies work best when they work together. The core labor —standards freedom of association and the right to organize and bargain collectively; freedom from forced labor; the abolition of child labor; and freedom from discrimination— are fundamental rights and, in an environment that promotes democracy and market–oriented economies, as the FTAA is intended to do, there is no trade– off between these principles and development; indeed, they become mutually reinforcing. A review of International Labor Organization information on implementation of core labor standards in the hemisphere suggests that there is substantial room for progress, including in export sectors. Recent developments in the treatment of labor issues in US trade agreements also suggests that labor standards cannot be ignored if an FTAA agreement is to gain approval in the US Congress.
A combinatorial investigation of palladium and platinum additions to β-NiAl overlay coatings

Abstract A combinatorial approach was used to investigate the effects of higher-order additions to NiAl on the oxidation, phase stability and interdiffusion behavior of the coatings. Overlay coatings with compositions (in at.%) in the range Ni–38Al–5Cr–(0.1–0.5)Hf–(2–8)Pd and Ni–36Al–5Cr–(0.1–0.5)Hf–(2–8)Pt were deposited on Rene N5 single crystal substrates via ion plasma deposition (IPD). Cyclic oxidation experiments on ten different Pd + Hf- or Pt + Hf-modified NiAlCr coatings at 1100 °C revealed similar weight gain and oxide scale thickness. While the thickness of alumina scales formed on Pd- and Pt-modified coatings were comparable, a higher density of oxide spalls were observed in the former. High-temperature transformations from β → γ′ → γ + γ′ occurred during extended exposure in both Pd- and Pt-modified coatings owing to Al depletion to substrate and surface oxide. On cooling, Al-depleted β-NiAl transformed to two martensite phases, 3R and fine-twinned 7R. Rumpling or surface roughening occurred for some coating compositions. Microprobe measurements showed that the difference in penetration depths of Pd into the substrate was not as large as expected from the higher interdiffusion coefficient of Pd in β-NiAl and γ-Ni.
Differentiating social phobia and panic disorder: A test of core beliefs

Fears of anxiety symptoms, panic attacks, and negative evaluation as well as assertiveness were examined in 102 patients with a diagnosis of panic disorder alone, social phobia alone, comorbid social phobia and panic disorder, or comorbid social phobia and depressive disorder. The results indicated that social phobia and panic disorder can be differentiated by fears of negative evaluation and by assertiveness, but a substantial overlap between these disorders exists with regard to anxiety sensitivity and catastrophic beliefs about panic attacks. The boundaries between social phobia and panic disorder were especially blurred by the presence of comorbid depression within social phobia. Mood-specific biases in catastrophic thoughts and pessimistic attitudes may account for the findings for depression. Treatment implications are discussed.
Design of synthetic estimation filters using correlation energy minimization

Synthetic estimation filters (SEFs) have been found useful for the determination of distortion parameters such as angle of rotation of objects from their images. Previous SEFs, designed using matched and phase-only filters required a knowledge of the exact location of the object to produce reasonable estimation accuracy. To overcome the limitation, use of minimum average correlation energy (MACE) filters is proposed for the construction of SEFs. Because the MACE filters are designed to have their peaks at the origin of the correlation plane, the peak can be detected without a knowledge of the exact position of the object. Computer simulations are used to study the performance of MACE-SEFs. It is found that significant errors result at rotation angles that are not part of the training set. An improved linearity leading to an increase in accuracy was realized when the minimum noise correlation energy (MINACE) concept was used in place of the MACE concept for the design of the SEFs.
Dimock's philosophy of administration

Marshall E. Dimock was a self-confessed non-conformist who valued individualism and individual self-development above all other values. For him a philosophy of administration is more than a science or art and “must deal with institutional goals and objectives, with social values and individual growth, as well as with the paraphernalia of organizing and running things, which are only “incidental.”(1) He warned that “over specialization of the individual makes him dull and lacking capacities for administrative growth”(2)and decried the parochialism of behaviorists, logical positivists and other methodologists. At the core of his thinking about problems of administration, management and organization was what he regarded as the fundamental importance of “moral philosophy” although he recognized that “the political economist who epitomizes moral philosophy is regarded as a regrettably nonconformist and excessively individualistic relic of a past age.”(3)
Observations on the Moduli Space of Superconformal Field Theories

Abstract Some aspects of the moduli space of superconformal field theories are discussed. It is helpful to consider the conformal field theory as a background for propagation of strings and to exploit the space-time interpretation. Using this point of view we show that the metric on the moduli space of N = 4 superconformal field theory with c = 6 is locally that of O(20,4)/O(20) × O(4). We also discover some properties of the moduli space of N = 2 superconformal field theories with c = 9. Particular examples of these conformal field theories are sigma models on four- and six-dimensional Calabi-Yau spaces. Therefore, we can use this technique to learn about the moduli space of these spaces. For c = 6 we recover the known moduli space of K3. Our analysis of the c = 9 system leads to a new coupling in four dimensional supergravity. As a by-product, we prove that gauge couplings cannot depend on the moduli of N = 1 space-time supersymmetric compactifications.
Bootstrap Analyses of Cost Effectiveness in Antidepressant Pharmacotherapy

In this study, we describe ‘bootstrap’ methodology for placing statistical confidence limits around an incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER). This approach was applied to a retrospective study of annual charges for patients undergoing pharmacotherapy for depression.
Application of solid-phase transition kinetics to the properties of HMX

Introduction T chemical HMX (octahydro-l,3,5,7-tetranitro1,3,5,7-tetrazocine) is an important nitramine monopropellant. Recently we have determined the pressuretemperature phase diagram for the conversion of the 0 polymorph to the 6 polymorph.' This phase transformation involves both a major disruption of the crystal lattice from the monoclinic to the hexagonal crystal system' and a ring conformation change of 0 (chair) to 6 (chair-chair) shown in Fig. 1. The volume expansion associated with the first-order 0—6 phase transition (the density is 1.90 g/cm for (3 and 1.78 g/cm for 6) will lead to strain and microfracturing in the crystallites. Hence, the mechanical properties and combustion characteristics of HMX could be affected by this transition. The phase transformation temperature depends on the applied pressure'' and the particle size of HMX.' At very high pressures where the temperature of the phase transition is high enough to produce considerable decomposition, the enthalpy change A// for the conversion is similar to the activation energy of decomposition. Hence, at high pressure, the 0-*6 transformation could be a source of fracturing and heat release in the thermal wave below a burning surface. Such events concern deflagration-to-detonation transitions and combustion modeling of HMX, particularly with larger particle sizes. Intimately coupled to the thermochemical analysis of the 0 — 6 transition is the kinetics of the process. While a number of thermochemical studies are now available,''' no kinetic data on this phase transition have been obtained. This void is undoubtedly due to the difficulty of measuring the rates of solid-solid transitions. In fact, the entire domain of firstorder solid-solid phase transitions in organic materials at elevated temperatures is virgin territory. We have determined the Arrhenius parameters by using Fourier transform/infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Full reports describing the methodology of phase transition kinetics studies by FT-IR and the kinetic stabilities, applications, and significance of other HMX polymorphs appear elsewhere.' This Note deals with the relationship of the 0 —6-HMX solid-phase transition kinetics to propellants.
A Simulation Model for the Vector-Host Transmission System of a Mosquito-Borne Avian Virus, Turlock (Bunyaviridae)

The vector-host transmission system of Turlock (TUR) virus in Hale Co., Texas, USA, was investigated by using laboratory experimentation, field data, pertinent literature, and simulation modeling. The computer simulation model was constructed to investigate how a relatively large proportion of vectors and/or hosts can become infected with mosquito-transmitted viruses, since these infections can be associated with epidemics in humans and domestic animals. Transmission system components investigated were: randomness of transmission events; mosquito susceptibility to viral infection; ability of mosquitoes to transmit virus; survival of infected mosquitoes; and size of the mosquito population. Increasing the probability of infected mosquito survival by 10% caused more mosquito and sparrow infections than increases in all other transmission components, either separately or in their possible combinations. Survival of adult female mosquitoes was noted as an area of arbovirus study that deserves more emphasis. Variation in the number of enzootic infections generated by the model was greatest when the probability of an epizootic was greatest; those conditions occurred after survival of infected mosquitoes was increased. This increased variation may help to explain why epidemics are difficult to predict. The system modeled could not sustain itself by vector-host transmission alone. This implied that viral reintroduction is required to maintain summer transmission of viruses that are periodically undetectable in the field as is TUR virus in Hale Co., Texas.
Processing objectives as a determinant of the relationship between recall and judgment

Abstract One aspect of person perception research that has been problematic for many theories is that there is often little correspondence between judgments that are made of a person and specific facts that can be recalled about that person. A model is presented that suggests this type of low correspondence is to be expected whenever evaluations of the person are spontaneously formed at the time relevant information is acquired. However, a relatively strong correspondence between the judgments that are made and the facts that can be recalled is expected when such evaluations are not spontaneously made at the time of information acquisition. The present paper reports several phenomena that are consistent with the model presented including: a much higher correspondence between recall and judgment under comprehension set than impression set conditions, judgment primacy effects for impression set subjects but judgment recency effects for comprehension set subjects, and a strong relationship between judgments and spew recall order for comprehension sets subjects but not impression set subjects. The implications of these and other phenomena are discussed in terms of how mental representations of another person are formed, and how the nature of such representations may systematically differ as a function of initial processing objectives.
Regression modelling of software quality: empirical investigation☆

Abstract The use of software complexity metrics in the determination of software quality has met with limited success. Many metrics measure similar aspects of program differences. Some lack a sound theoretical foundation. Attempts to use these metrics in quantitative modelling scenarios have been frustrated by a lack of understanding of the precise nature of exactly what is being measured. This is particularly true in the application of these metrics to predictive models. The paper investigates some basic issues associated with the modelling process, including problems of shared variance among metrics and the possible relationship between complexity metrics and measures of program quality. The modelling techniques are applied to a sample data set to explore the differences between modelling techniques with raw complexity metrics and complexity metrics that have been simplified through factor analysis. The ultimate objective is to provide the foundation for the use of complexity metrics in predictive models. This, in turn, will permit the effective use of these measures in the management of complex software projects.
Relationships of Equality: A Camping Trip Revisited

G. A. Cohen incisively argued that our judgments of social justice should fit our convictions about how to interact with others in our personal lives. Ironically, the ordinary morality of cooperation invoked in his last book undermines his favored principle of equality, and supports John Rawls’ reliance on a relevantly impartial choice promoting appropriate fundamental interests as a basis for distributive standards. His further objections to Rawls’ account of distributive justice neglect the role of social relations in establishing the proper scope of that impartiality and the moral force of Rawls’ taxonomy of non-ideal societies. In contrast, the powerful evocation of goods of community at the end of Cohen’s last book points to a genuine inadequacy. Conscientious fellow-citizens must take account of the impact of their political choices on options for sharing and caring. In finding a proper balance between these goods and competing individualist concerns, the original position is of too little use to sustain Rawls’ assessment of his conception of justice as complete. In the face of our strong moral convictions about how to live together, both Cohen’s luck egalitarianism and Rawls’ barriers between aspirations to community and political choice must give way.
Spectrophotometric determination of dissolved oxygen with tris(4,7-dihydroxy-1,10-phenanthroline)iron(II)

Abstract Tris(4,7-dihydroxy-1,10-phenanthroline)iron(II) reacts rapidly and quantitatively with dissolved oxygen in alkaline aqueous solution. In ammoniacal solution, the reaction is accompanied by the disappearance of the intense red colour of the iron(II) compound, which gives way to the pale gray, slightly-dissociated ion tris(4,7-dihydroxy-1,10-phenanthrolinefiron)(III). By measurement of the absorbance of a solution containing the ferrous compound before and after the injection of an oxygen-containing solution, the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the sample can be accurately determined in the range 1–20 ppm.
Perspectives on AASHTO Load and Resistance Factor Design

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) first published the Load and Resistance Factor Design Bridge Design Specifications (LRFD Code) in 1994 after several years of development. Each year since its inception, the reliability-based LRFD Code has been refined and improved. At present, the LRFD Code has achieved a level of stability and general acceptance by the bridge engineering community. However, the LRFD Code was initiated with a guiding principle that it could and should continually evolve. Because of this principle, it will always be a work in progress. Provided herein is a brief synopsis of the evolution of the LRFD Code that includes topics and research that are being considered at present and several possible future topics that could or should be addressed. Because the LRFD Code is the centerpiece of AASHTO’s reliability-based specifications, it is the primary focus. However, other reliability-based AASHTO manuals and guide specifications are also discussed ...
Small RNAs in Bacteria: Diverse Regulators of Gene Expression in Response to Environmental Changes

Bacterial small, untranslated RNAs are important regulators that often act to transmit environmental signals when cells encounter suboptimal or stressful growth conditions. These RNAs help modulate changes in cellular metabolism to optimize utilization of available nutrients and improve the probability for survival.
THE DIXIE DIASPORA: ATTITUDES TOWARD IMMIGRANTS IN GEORGIA

Few contemporary topics elicit more opposing responses than immigration. Within the state of Georgia, the number of immigrants, particularly Latinos, entering the labor force dramatically increased in the 1990s, creating a new racial composition in both urban and rural counties. These immigrants communicate in languages and behave in ways quite different from those of native Georgians. Frequently, immigrants must also compete with the U.S.-born for limited political, social, and economic resources. This study poses these questions: Who among Georgia's residents are more likely to respond positively to these new immigrants, and who are more likely to respond negatively?
Association of fetal inflammation and coagulation pathway gene polymorphisms with neurodevelopmental delay at age 2 years.

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between fetal inflammation and coagulation gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and neurodevelopmental delay at age 2 years. Study Design We conducted a case-controlled secondary analysis of a randomized trial of single- vs multiple-course corticosteroids. Multiplex assay assessed 46 SNPs. Cases had mental developmental and/or psychomotor delay at age 2 years. Control subjects had normal neurodevelopment. Results One hundred twenty-five cases and 147 control subjects were analyzed. Allele frequencies were different between cases and control subjects for interleukin (IL)1β-511 ( P = .009), IL4R-148 ( P = .03), IL6-174 ( P = .02), and IL6-176 ( P = .007). Genotype frequencies were different for IL1β-511 ( P = .03) and IL6-174 ( P = .04). Results for IL1β-511, IL4R-148, and IL6-176 remained significant after logistic regression analysis. IL1β-511 and IL6-176 minor alleles were associated with increased risk of neurodevelopmental delay (odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2–8.2 and 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2–3.9, respectively). IL4R-148 minor allele was protective (odds ratio, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4–0.9). Conclusion Fetal SNPs in IL1β, IL-4R, and IL-6 may be associated with neurodevelopmental delay at age 2 years.
Large amplitude vibrations of a rigidly clamped circular plate

Abstract The free and forced non-linear vibrations of a circular plate with a clamped and immovable boundary are investigated. Steady state sinusoidal oscillations are assumed, and then the time variable is eliminated by applying a Kantorovich averaging method. Thus, the basic governing equations for the problem are reduced to a pair of ordinary differential equations, which form a non-linear eigenvalue problem. A computational method is used to solve these equations. The effect of large amplitudes upon the transverse shape of vibration and the induced stresses is studied and illustrated. The dynamic response curves of the plate for several types of applied loading are presented.
TUMULT AND SHOUTING

Summary.— Varying conditions entail a variation in methods. Since there is no one best method, choose those elements of the different methods that will best fit your conditions. A common sense statement of facts. Ed.
OSU03012 activates Erk1/2 and Cdks leading to the accumulation of cells in the S‐phase and apoptosis

OSU03012, a Celecoxib derivative, has been shown to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in human cancer cell lines. However, its underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. In our study, the relationship between cell cycle inhibition and apoptosis induced by OSU03012 was investigated in human oral cancer cell lines. In the premalignant and malignant cell lines, OSU03012-induced growth inhibition, S-phase arrest, and apoptosis were accompanied by a marked increase in the activity of Erk1/2 and Cdk2/cyclin A. Inhibition of Cdks by roscovitine partially blocked OSU03012-induced growth inhibition and apoptosis. Although the activity of cdc2/cyclin B was reduced, expression of constructively active cdc2AF did not reverse OSU03012-induced S-phase arrest. When Erk1/2 was inhibited by U0126 before addition of OSU03012, growth inhibition and apoptosis induced by OSU03012 were attenuated. The levels of the Cdk2/cyclin A were reduced and cells accumulated in the G(0)/G(1) phase. When cells were allowed to accumulate in S-phase before addition of U0126, apoptosis also was attenuated suggesting that Erk1/2 is required for both progression of cells into the S-phase and apoptosis. Expression of constructively active MEK enhanced OSU03012-induced apoptosis. OSU03012 selectively inhibited the proliferation in premalignant and malignant, but not normal human oral cell lines. In conclusion, we show that OSU03012 has potent anti-proliferative and apoptotic activity against premalignant and malignant human oral cells through activation of Erk1/2, and Cdks. OSU0312 may provide unique opportunities for cancer prevention and sensitization of cancer cells to S-phase modalities.
Activity coefficients in (hydrogen chloride + holmium chloride) (aq) from T = (278.15 to 328.15) K

Abstract Activity coefficients of HCl in (hydrogen chloride + holmium chloride) (aq) have been calculated from the observed e.m.f.s using the Nernst equation. The temperatures ranged from (278.15 to 328.15) K at 5 K intervals and at constant total ionic strengths of (0.01, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5) mol · kg −1 . Electromotive-force measurements were made on the cell without liquid junction of the type: Pt | H 2 ( g , p = 101 . 325 kPa ) | HCl ( m A ) , HoCl 3 ( m B ) | AgCl ( s ) , | Ag ( s ) The results of the activity coefficients of HCl for this mixed electrolyte mixture have been interpreted in terms of the simpler Harned’s equations and the ion-interaction model of Pitzer. Results show that the quadratic term is sufficient for the full range of Y B (the ionic strength fraction of the salt) to 0.9 at all the ionic strengths studied. The Pitzer’s mixing parameters S θ H , Ho and Ψ H,Ho,Cl (including higher order electrostatic effects) and θ H,Ho and Ψ H,Ho,Cl (excluding higher order electrostatic effects) have been determined. These values at T = 298.15 K are: S θ H , Ho = 0 . 115 , Ψ H,Ho,Cl = −.071; and θ H,Ho = −.663, Ψ H,Ho,Cl = 0.165. The parameters obtained in this study reproduce the activity coefficients of HCl in the mixtures within 0.015 over the entire range of ionic strengths and within 0.009 for I ⩾ 0.05 mol · kg −1 over the entire temperature range.
Equations of State of Elements Based on the Generalized Fermi-Thomas Theory

The Fermi-Thomas model has been used to derive the equation of state of matter at high pressures and at various temperatures. Calculations have been carried out both without and with the exchange terms. Discussion of similarity transformations lead to the virial theorem and to correlation of solutions for different Z values.
PRIMO: A Primer Design Program That Applies Base Quality Statistics for Automated Large-Scale DNA Sequencing ☆

PRIMO is a computer program that designs walking primers for large-scale DNA sequencing projects. Oligonucleotide primers are predicted automatically, using quality information associated with each base call, eliminating the need for manually viewing the sequence traces or inspecting contig assemblies to determine appropriate locations for primer design. This allows PRIMO to run in batch mode on an arbitrarily large number of templates. For shotgun sequencing, PRIMO reads assembled sequence contigs with corresponding base quality statistics and automatically designs walking primers as needed to extend and join contigs, or improve their overall quality. In the opposite extreme of single-pass or completely directed sequencing, PRIMO reads the unassembled sequence for each template and designs walking primers for extending each read. If the base-calling software does not provide base quality statistics, PRIMO assigns its own measure of base quality determined by the shapes of individual peaks in the trace data for each template. In this way, PRIMO can be used in the finishing stages of a shotgun sequencing project, in sequencing by directed primer walking, or in some intermediate strategy. The code is written in ANSI C and maintained in two versions: one for the Macintosh and the other for UNIX.
An approximate shell theory for unrestricted elastic deformations

Abstract An approximate shell theory is formulated within the framework of the general theory of finite elasticity for unrestricted deformation. A deformation field is constructed throughout the shell based on the solution of the corresponding membrane problem. An additional deformation is then superposed on this “membrane state” and the resulting equations of motion for the final state linearized in the additional displacement. These equations are then “averaged” through the thickness of the shell to yield an approximate shell theory. Details are carried through for the case in which the additional deformation is itself linearized in the thickness variable so that normals to the middle surface remain straight and uniformly extended, but not necessarily normal. The resulting theory is then applied to the problem of a uniformly twisted, extended and inflated cylindrical shell.
Effects Of Deposition Conditions On The Conductivity And Photoconductivity Of rf Sputtered a-Ge:H and a-Ge 1_x C x :H

a-Ge:H and a-Ge1_xCx:H films were prepared by rf sputtering of 4 polycrystalline Ge target in a background vacuum ~4x10-7 at rf power 5O<P<600W (0.27-3.3W/cm2), target-to-substrate distances 1≤d≤7", varying partial pressures of Ar, H2, and propane, and flow rates f. The dark conductivity σd and photoconductivity σph increase with increasing d up to 6", apparently due to thermalization of the ions and Ge atoms bombarding the growing film. σd and σph also increase at f<lsccm, due to the incorporation of oxygen and other impurities from the background residual atmosphere. At the optimal values of f and d, σph and ad increase with P. Although all increases in aph are significant relative to those bf previously reported rf sputtered a-Ge:H, the values arb still much lower than those of glow discharge deposited films, which are in turn lower than those of rf magnetron sputtered films grown in high vacuum (<5x10-9 torr). The similar behavior of σd and σph, the relatively long lifetimes of the carriers ι - 0.8ms but very low mobility μ 5x10-7 cm4/Vsec and low subgap absorption suggest that the transport is dominated by defects near the mobility edge. The failure of a biased screen placed above the substrate to affect σph suggests that the high values of aph reported using rf magnetron sputtering are at least in part due to the improved background vacuum. Although incorporation of significant amounts of carbon sharply reduces σph, a small content, sufficient to increase the optical gap to 1.3-1.4eV, has little effect on σph.© (1989) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Evaluation of the bioavailability of misonidazole (NSC#261037) in capsule and tablet form and pharmacologic effects of daily dosage

Abstract A total of 34 patients were studied in order to evaluate capsule vs. tablet form of misonidazole and intermittent vs. daily administration. These patients were given drug formulation of tablets for one week and capsules for one week on either an intermittent (1, 2, or 3 times per week) or daily schedule. Total doses ranged from 5–15 gm/m 2 There was no significant difference seen in mean serum levels or half-lives between capsules and tablets. Daily misonidazole resulted in slight build-up of serum levels in the latter part of the week. There was no difference in toxicities seen with drug daily vs. intermittent administration.
The Effect of Grain Size on Spectral Mixture Analysis of Snow-Covered Area from AVIRIS Data

Abstract We developed a technique to improve spectral mixture analysis of snow-covered area in alpine regions through the use of multiple snow endmembers. Snow reflectance in near-infrared wavelengths is sensitive to snow grain size while in visible wavelengths it is relatively insensitive. Snow-covered alpine regions often exhibit large surface grain size gradients due to changes in aspect and elevation. The sensitivity of snow spectral reflectance to grain size translates these grain size gradients into spectral gradients. To spectrally characterize a snow-covered image domain with mixture analysis, the variable spectral nature of snow must be accounted for by use of multiple snow endmembers of varying grain size. We performed numerical simulations to demonstrate the sensitivity of mixture analysis to grain size for a range of sizes and snow fractions. From Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data collected over Mammoth Mountain, CA on 5 April 1994, a suite of snow image endmembers spanning the imaged region’s grain size range were extracted. Mixture models with fixed vegetation, rock, and shade were applied with each snow endmember. For each pixel, the snow fraction estimated by the model with least mixing error (RMS) was chosen to produce an optimal map of subpixel snow-covered area. Results were verified with a high spatial resolution aerial photograph demonstrating equivalent accuracy. Analysis of fraction under/overflow and residuals confirmed mixture analysis sensitivity to grain size gradients.
An approach to quantifying bone overloading and hypertrophy with applications to multiple experimental studies

Abstract Many studies have investigated mechanically induced bone formation in mice and rats by applying loads to the long bones, and measuring changes in periosteal cortical bone apposition rates. However, the results are difficult to compare among each other because the loading schemes are generally different. The purpose of the present study was to develop a theoretical framework for evaluating the mechanical stimulus based on the bone daily strain stimulus, which is a function of loading cycles and bone strains. The daily strain stimulus would act as a single unifying parameter for directly comparing data from existing in vivo experiments, and is applied here to twenty previous rat and mouse studies. To calculate the daily strain stimulus, we determined the periosteal daily strain stimulus necessary for bone maintenance (ξperi,0) and the strain-cycle weighting exponent (m). In the first approach, we applied data from Rubin and Lanyon's bone maintenance studies. We calculated ξperi,0 to be 2793 microstrain/day, and m to be 4.5. In the second approach, we used Fritton et al. 's strain gage recordings to calculate ξperi,0 to be 1496 microstrain/day, and used an m value of 11.88, equal to human bone compressive fatigue properties. Fatigue data provided physiological relevance, and was useful for applying an established remodeling theory to in vivo studies. For both approaches, ξperi,0 was below the fracture level. We then analyzed the applied strains, cycles, and periosteal bone apposition rates from the previous studies. The range of daily strain stimuli calculated using the first approach was much larger than the range using the second approach (2793–17312 microstrain/day compared to 1496–7681 microstrain/day). None of the studies applied a daily strain stimulus above the complete fatigue failure level, but some studies applied loading that could result in major fatigue microdamage. Bone apposition rates generally increased with increasing daily strain stimulus, which was consistent with previous theoretical models. The results suggest that the daily strain stimulus may be a reasonable first approximation for predicting bone apposition rates in a consistent manner. The use of the daily strain stimulus may be helpful for improving the design of future bone loading studies.
Cryoelectron microscopy resolves FK506-binding protein sites on the skeletal muscle ryanodine receptor

A 12-kDa immunophilin (FKBP12) is an integral component of the skeletal muscle ryanodine receptor (RyR). The RyR is a hetero-oligomeric complex with structural formula (FKBP)4(Ryr1)4, where Ryr1 is the 565-kDa product of the Ryr1 gene. To aid in the detection of the immunophilin's location in the receptor, we exchanged the FKBP12 present in RyR-enriched vesicles derived from sarcoplasmic reticulum with an engineered construct of FKBP12 fused to glutathione S-transferase and then isolated the complexes. Cryoelectron microscopy and image averaging of the complexes (in an orientation displaying the RyR's fourfold symmetry) revealed four symmetrically distributed, diffuse density regions that were located just outside the boundary defining the cytoplasmic assembly of the RyR. These regions are attributed to the glutathione transferase portion of the fusion protein because they are absent from receptors lacking the fusion protein. To more precisely define the location of FKBP12, we similarly analyzed complexes of RyR containing FKBP12 itself. Apparently some FKBP is lost during the purification or storage of the RyR because, to detect the receptor-bound immunophilin, it was necessary to add FKBP12 to the purified receptor before electron microscopy. Averaged images of these complexes showed a region of density that had not been observed previously in images of isolated receptors, and its position, along the edges of the transmembrane assembly, agreed with the position of the FKBP12 deduced from the experiments with the fusion protein. The proposed locations for FKBP12 are about 10 nm from the transmembrane baseplate assembly that contains the ion channel of the RyR.
Response of Broilers to DL-Methionine Hydroxy Analog Free Acid, DL-Methionine, and L-Methionine,

An experiment was designed to compare graded levels of DL-methionine hydroxy analog, free acid, 88% in aqueous solution; 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)butanoic acid (HMB), the aqueous solution of the sodium salt of DL-methionine (40%) (DLM), and crystalline L-methionine (LM) as sources of supplemental methionine activity. The experiment utilized 2160 broilers of each sex grown in separate pens to 7 weeks of age with a lysine-supplemented corn-soybean meal basal diet. These supplements produced a maximum 15% growth response over the unsupplemented basal diet. There were no statistically significant differences among the three sources in producing weight gain and feed conversion. There were no source X level interactions with regard to body weight gain. There was one source X level interaction (at 7 weeks) for feed conversion. The results support the conclusion that when synthetic sources of methionine activity are used to meet the requirement for total sulfur amino acids in practical corn-soybean meal diets for producing 7-week-old broilers, the chicks are capable of utilizing HMB, DLM, and LM with an efficiency that is indistinguishable.
Studies on the Biosynthesis of Intermediate Filament Proteins in the Rat CNS

The biosynthesis of brain intermediate filament proteins [neurofilament proteins and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFA)] was studied with cell-free systems containing either rat spinal cord polysomes (free polysomes or rough microsomes) and rabbit reticulocyte factors or wheat germ homogenate containing spinal cord messenger RNA. The products of translation were isolated by immunoaffinity chromatography and then analyzed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DGE) followed by fluorography. The free polysome population was found to synthesize two neurofilament proteins (MW 145K, pI 5.4, and MW 70K, pI 5.3) and three isomers of GFA (alpha, beta, and gamma) that differ in isoelectric point. Wheat germ homogenate containing messenger RNA extracted from free cord polysomes synthesized two proteins that comigrated with neurofilament protein standards at 145K 5.4 and 70K 5.3; these proteins were partially purified by neurofilament affinity chromatography. The wheat germ system also synthesized the alpha, beta, and gamma isomers of GFA as characterized by immunoaffinity chromatographic purification and comigration with standards in 2DGE analysis. Our data are consistent with the conclusion that synthesis of neurofilament proteins requires multiple messenger RNAs. Also, synthesis of intermediate filament proteins occurs in the free polysome population; detectable amounts of these proteins were not synthesized by the rough microsomes.
On extinction patterns of polymer spherulites

The extinction patterns between crossed nicols shown by two types of arrays of uniaxial crystals have been investigated. The arrays were (a) a disk whose radii were twisted arrangements of such crystallites, the plane of the disk being tilted at an arbitrary angle to the direction of observation, and (b) a cone of arbitrary apex angle whose sides were composed of twisted arrangements of crystallites, the cone being observed along the axis. The optic axes of the crystallites make an arbitrary but fixed angle with a radius of the disk or a ray of the cone. The extinction patterns of the disks can be circles, distorted displaced loops or zigzags, or mixtures of these, depending on the parameters. The extinction patterns of the conical arrays can be spirals or zigzags or both.
Recovery of enzyme byproducts from potential plant hosts for recombinant protein production

Abstract Recent use of transgenic plants as an alternative protein expression system offers the potential to recover native plant enzymes as byproducts from recombinant protein purification processes. From the perspective of reduced presence of like-charged, native matrix proteins, canola and corn would be favored hosts for acidic recombinant proteins, while soybean would be favored for basic ones. Hence, we have examined two established techniques in recombinant protein downstream processing, i.e. ion-exchange chromatography and polyelectrolyte precipitation, for their potential for enzyme byproduct recovery from plants viewed as hosts for recombinant protein production. Cation exchange chromatography of nontransgenic canola and soy extracts completely recovered native α-galactosidase and urease activities in the extract. α-Galactosidase and β-glucosidase activities were fully recovered in anion exchange chromatography of corn germ proteins with enrichment factors of about 3. Simple anion exchange chromatography for canola extracts recovered α-galactosidase activity with 59% yield and 11 times enrichment. Polyelectrolyte precipitation using polyethyleneimine at a dosage of 38 mg/g total protein recovered 47% of α-galactosidase from canola with an enrichment factor of about 3. Several recommendations on the utilization of the byproduct fractions are proposed. Additional processing of byproduct fractions to concentrate form appears economically feasible.
Organ transplant recipients with Merkel cell carcinoma have reduced progression-free, overall, and disease-specific survival independent of stage at presentation

Background Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. Immunosuppression is associated with increased incidence of MCC. Objective We sought to determine whether solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) with MCC had decreased progression-free, disease-specific, and overall survival compared with immunocompetent patients. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study examining 8 SOTR with MCC and 89 immunocompetent control subjects. Cox regression models were generated for outcomes of progression, disease-specific death, and death from any cause, adjusted for patient sex, age at diagnosis, and stage at presentation. Results SOTR had a 4.1-fold increased hazard for progression (95% confidence interval 1.57-10.95, P = .004), a 10.5-fold increased hazard for all-cause mortality (95% confidence interval 3.06-35.98, P P = .001), adjusted for sex, age, and stage at presentation. SOTR had decreased 1-year overall survival, 46.8% versus 88.6%, and decreased 1-year MCC-specific survival, 56.3% versus 95.2%. Limitations This is a single-center study from a tertiary academic care center, and may not be generalizable to all patient populations. Conclusions SOTR have a significant reduction in overall, MCC-specific, and progression-free survival compared with immunocompetent patients. Further studies will determine whether aggressive treatment may improve outcomes in this high-risk population.
The decomposition of NF4AsF6

Abstract NF4AsF6 decomposes smoothly at 175° and above, to the starting materials NF3, F2 and AsF5. The decomposition has been followed by total pressure measurements and found to obey the equation P 3 2 = At + B This has been interpreted in terms of an equilibrium dissociation step NF4AsF6 NF5 + AsF5 followed by irreversible decomposition of the unstable NF5 NF5 → NF3 + F2 The latter step is taken to be a 3 2 -order reaction: d P d t = k1PnPa 1 2 where Pn is the partial pressure of NF5 and Pa that of AsF5. Taking the equilibrium into account, the above equation is integrated to yield Pa 3 2 - (P0a 3 2 = 3k1Keqt/2 An attempt to identify NF5 in the products by matrix isolation methods yielded, besides the expected NF3 and AsF5, an unknown minor product which appeared not to contain nitrogen.
Use of GnRH agonist before hysterectomy: A cost simulation

Objective: To evaluate the potential savings in cost of care derived from performing vaginal hysterectomies instead of abdominal hysterectomies in selected women with fibroid uteri equivalent in size to a 14–18 week gestation. Methods: Women 35–46 years of age undergoing hysterectomy for fibroid uteri were selected to allow application of conversion rates gained in a separate randomized study using leuprolide acetate depot 3.75 mg. Statewide public data for North Carolina's hospital discharges provided relative rates of hospital charges and leiomyomas for all hysterectomies, by age. Professional charges were omitted from the analysis. Estimated savings were projected to the national level. Results: During 1992 in North Carolina, 18,110 inpatient hysterectomies were performed for women of all ages; 28.1% of these were for uterine leiomyomas. For women 35–46 years old (12.7% of all hysterectomies), there were 1904 abdominal and 390 vaginal hysterectomies; the mean total charge for abdominal hysterectomy was $5590, and $4732 for the vaginal alternative. These statewide data provide missing elements to allow a national estimate of the potential savings of using GnRH agonist preoperatively. The projected national savings, if 1987 utilization data are used, was $4.6 million, nearly 1.4% of the inpatient charges. The 1992 value of these savings is $6.7 million. Conclusion: The use of preoperative GnRH agonist therapy before hysterectomy for patients with a uterine size equivalent to a 14–18 week gestation represents a significant cost-saving alternative, increasing the use of vaginal hysterectomy and resulting in potential savings in direct inpatient medical care charges.
Effects of defecation by arenicolid polychaete adults on spionid polychaete juveniles in field experiments: Selective settlement or differential mortality

Cores of frozen and then thawed sediment were implanted into the intertidal zone during the period of larval settlement of a spionid polychaete Pseudopolydora kempi (Southern). The cores were of four treatment types: sediment blanks to which no macrofauna were added, worm-smell cores to which individuals of an arenicolid polychaete Abarenicola pacifica Healy and Wells were added for 1 day and then removed, regeneration cores to which individuals of Abarenicola with damaged tails were added, and worm control cores to which intact Abarenicola were added. Defecation activity of Abarenicola was significantly lower in the regeneration cores than in the worm control cores. Densities of Pseudopolydora juveniles at termination (9 days) were not consistent with a hypothesis of differential mortality as a function of Abarenicola activity. Densities were consistent with a hypothesis of the avoidance of cores with any evidence of Abarenicola, past or present
Can smaller loads be profitably engaged in power system services

This paper summarizes a presentation to be given at the IEEE Power and Energy Society 2011 General Meeting, in the panel session “Business Models for Demand-side Energy Services: Economics, Challenges, and Opportunities.” The paper discusses some of the tradeoffs between price response versus direct load control, and using small versus large loads to deliver aggregated system services. It also discusses some of the challenges that will need to be addressed if grid cyberinfrastructure is to be employed to economically deliver grid services with aggregated loads. In the final section, the paper presents a few novel load control strategies developed by the author and his collaborators that could significantly reduce the cost to deliver fast and precise services from responsive loads.
Fetal rate of behavioral inhibition and preference for novelty during infancy

Abstract Background Correlations between infant measures of information processing and later IQ have been established, and a few studies have extended this continuum by examining links between various fetal measures and cognitive measures during infancy. Aims This study compared fetal rate of behavioral habituation among infants identified as at high or low cognitive risk. Study design This study was a retrospective examination of differences in fetal rate of behavioral habituation as a function of cognitive risk status at 6.5 and 9 months postpartum, using an independent two-group design. Subjects Participants were 32 infants who were born between 36 and 42 weeks gestational age at normal birth weight and had normal APGAR scores. Outcome measures The Fagan Test of Infant Intelligence (FTII) was used to obtain a measure of preference for novelty, which served as the basis for identification of infants at high or low risk for cognitive difficulty. These infants had undergone up to three habituation trials using a vibroacoustic stimulus during fetal development. Results Infants who were classified as being at high cognitive risk at 6 months had required more trials to habituation as fetuses. Conclusions Fetal rate of behavioral habituation is associated with information processing during the first 6 months of infancy. We suggest that fetal habituation may be influenced by early cognitive mechanisms and therefore represents an immature but real form of information processing.