cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photoelectron spectra of conducting polymers—molecularly doped polyacetylenes

Abstract Polyacetylene, (CH)x, is one of the simplest of the conjugated organic polymers and is, therefore, of fundamental importance in the theoretical and spectroscopic studies of unsaturated polymer systems. The electrons from the unsaturated pi system are delocalized along the polymer chain. If all of the C-C bond lengths were equal, these pi electrons would be expected to exhibit metallic behaviour. Due to the effects of bond alternation and Coulomb correlations, however, an energy gap occurs in the electronic excitation spectrum leading to semiconducting behaviour. Recent studies have demonstrated that doping of the (CH)x with a variety of doners and acceptors gives n- and p-type semiconductors. When the dopant concentration reaches a few mol percent, the doped (CH)x films undergo a semiconductor-to-metal transition. Following a brief indication of current research on the polyacetylenes, in this paper we present photoemission spectra and X-ray-induced Auger electron spectra for pure polyacetylene, as well as for AsF5 and iodine doped polyacetylene. In the case of AsF5 doping, at concentrations near that leading to the maximum electrical conductivity (∼11% AsF5), the As:F ratio is 1:5 and the arsenic—fluoride moieties are localized near the surface of the polyacetylene fibrils. The C1s core-level spectra indicate a charge transfer of one electron per AsF5 molecule. The u.p.s. spectra, the X-ray induced Auger spectra and CNDO calculations suggest, however, that the AsF5 moieties are not simple AsF−5 radical anions. In the case of iodine doped (CH)x, the dopant concentration is more nearly uniform and I−5 appears to be the relevant anion species. The inhomogeneity of the doped samples constitutes the greatest barrier to a quantitative interpretation of the photoemission spectra using simple theoretical models.
Approximations and decompositions in S3

Abstract In this paper we prove that given a closed 2-manifold S, e > 0, and positive integer k, there are k tame e-approximations {hi(S): i = 1, k} of S and a null sequence of disjoint e-disks {Dm: m = 1, ∞} on S such that each Dm intersects at most one hi(S) and that intersection is in hi(Dm). Furthermore, for each i, S ∩ hi(S) ⊊ (∪ Int Dm ∪ (a compact null sequence of simple closed curves on which hi is the identity)). The proof relies heavily on Eaton's Two Sided Approximation Theorem [6]. Given a monotone upper semicontinuous decomposition of S3 whose non-degenerate elements miss S, we use the above result to obtain k disjoint approximations of S such that no non-degenerate element intersects two of them. This corollary, together with a Disjoint Disk criterion [8], gives an alternative proof of E. Woodruff's 2-Sphere Decomposition Theorem [10].
Axial buckling of pressurized imperfect cylindrical shells

Buckling load of cylindrical shell with asymmetric and axisymmetric imperfections and calculation of upper bound to buckling load for shell with axisymmetric imperfections
Nuclear Resonance Absorption of Gamma Rays in Ir 191

Mossbauer demonstrated the existence of nuclear resonance absorption of the 129-kev gamma ray of Ir/sup 191/ in metallic Ir with source and absorber at a temperature of 88 K. Mossbauer's measurements are repeated, with extension of the temperature range to 1.5 K, measurements on various foil thicknesses, and a demonstration of semiquantitative agreement of the results with theoretical calculations by Visscher based upon a theory of Lamb. (W.D.M.)
Listener Judgments of Impaired Narration at Two Age Levels.

Listener judgments of the narrative coherence of children with specific language impairment (SLI) were compared with their peers with normal language development (NL) at two age levels. Two groups of listeners (lay and professionals) rated audiotapes of the children's narrative discourse. The ratings for the children with SLI improved over time. The younger children with SLI had lower ratings than the children with NL. Differences between the groups for the older children were not as evident. Judgments differed slightly depending upon the background of the raters. Clinical implications of the data are discussed.
Left ventricular hypertrophy in a canine model of reversible pressure overload.

Objective: The goal of therapy for left ventricular pressure overload should include regression of the associated left ventricular hypertrophy, but this process is incompletely understood. The aim of the study was to characterise the extent and time course of the progression and regression of pressure overload left ventricular hypertrophy in a canine hypertrophy model. Methods: Six puppies were studied longitudinally with haemodynamic and echocardiographic measurements for 10 months. The study animals underwent ascending aortic banding at nine weeks of age which produced an initial gradient of 30 mm Hg. Subsequent growth led to an increase in gradient and the development of left ventricular hypertrophy. Then thoracotomy was again performed to remove the band. One month later, balloon aortoplasty was performed to remove the residual gradient. The animals were then observed for six months. Results: Growth increased the gradient to 105(SEM 10) mm Hg three months after banding. The left ventricular weight to body weight ratio (g·kg−1), an index of hypertrophy, was 7.2(0.5) after three months of pressure overload. Subsequently the band was surgically removed, reducing the gradient to an average of 58(10) mm Hg. Balloon dilatation of the residual aortic stricture reduced the gradient further to 6(5) mm Hg. Over the ensuing six months, echocardiographic determination of left ventricular mass showed the regression in left ventricular hypertrophy. After six months, left ventricular weight to body weight ratio in the previously banded animals was significantly reduced from 7.2(0.5) to 5.3(0.2) (p<0.05). Conclusions: The model produced over 100% left ventricular hypertrophy, most of which regressed following removal of the pressure overload.
Polyamine-guided synthesis of anisotropic, multicompartment microparticles.

Colloidal particles that have nonuniform bulk or surface compositions are of emerging interest because of their potential applications involving advanced chemical storage and delivery and the self-assembly of novel functional materials. Experimental realization of anisotropic particles is much more difficult than that for particles with uniform bulk and surface composition, however. A new wet-chemical synthesis method to anisotropic microparticles is presented. This approach makes convenient use of the unusual observation of a salt-triggered separation of two water-solubilized polyamines into colloidal aggregates with nonuniform polymer composition. The anisotropic structure of these ionically cross-linked aggregates is explained by the difference in surface tensions of the contained single-polymer domains. Contacting the polymer aggregates with silicic acid or 13-nm silica nanoparticles leads to the charge-driven formation of solid or hollow microspheres, respectively. Depending on the poly(lysine)/poly(...
Critical and Distinct Roles of p16 and Telomerase in Regulating the Proliferative Life Span of Normal Human Prostate Epithelial Progenitor Cells

Normal human prostate (NHP) epithelial cells undergo senescence in vitro and in vivo, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain obscure. Here we show that the senescence of primary NHP cells, which are immunophenotyped as intermediate basal-like cells expressing progenitor cell markers CD44, α2β1, p63, hTERT, and CK5/CK18, involves loss of telomerase expression, up-regulation of p16, and activation of p53. Using genetically defined manipulations of these three signaling pathways, we show that p16 is the primary determinant of the NHP cell proliferative capacity and that hTERT is required for unlimited proliferative life span. Hence, suppression of p16 significantly extends NHP cell life span, but both p16 inhibition and hTERT are required to immortalize NHP cells. Importantly, immortalized NHP cells retain expression of most progenitor markers, demonstrate gene expression profiles characteristic of proliferating progenitor cells, and possess multilineage differentiation potential generating functional prostatic glands. Our studies shed important light on the molecular mechanisms regulating the proliferative life span of NHP progenitor cells.
Comparison between primary angioplasty and stent placement for symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease: meta-analysis of case series.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the short- and long-term rates of stroke-and/or-death associated with primary angioplasty alone and angioplasty with stent placement using a meta-analysis of published studies. Both primary angioplasty alone and angioplasty with stent placement have been proposed as treatment strategies for symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease to reduce the risk of stroke-and/or-death with best medical treatment alone. However, it remains unclear which of these endovascular techniques offers the best risk reduction. METHODS: We identified pertinent studies published between January 1980 and May 2008 using a search on PubMed and Cochrane libraries, supplemented by a review of bibliographies of selected publications. The incidences of stroke-and/or-death were estimated for each report and pooled for both angioplasty alone and angioplasty with stent placement at 1 month and 1 year postintervention and then compared using a random-effects model. The association of year of publication and 1-year incidence of stroke-and/or-death was analyzed with meta-regression. RESULTS: After applying our selection criteria, we included 69 studies (33 primary angioplasty-alone studies [1027 patients] and 36 studies of angioplasty with stent placement [1291 patients]) in the analysis. There were a total of 91 stroke-and/or-deaths reported in the angioplasty-alone-treated group (8.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 7.1%-10.6%), compared with 104 stroke-and/or-deaths in the angioplasty-with-stent-treated group (8.1 %; 95% CI, 6.6%-9.5%) during a 1-month period (relative risk [RR], 1.1; P = 0.48). The pooled incidence of 1-year stroke-and/or-death in patients treated with angioplasty alone was 19.7% (95% CI, 16.6%-23.5%), compared with 14.2% (95% CI, 11.9%-16.9%) in the angioplasty-with-stent-treated patients (RR, 1.39; P = 0.009). The incidence of technical success was 79.8% (95% CI, 74.7%-84.8%) in the angioplasty-alone group and 95% (95% CI, 93.4%-96.6%) in the angioplasty-with-stent-treated group (RR, 0.84; P < 0.0001). The pooled restenosis rate was 14.2% (95% CI, 11.8-16.6%) in the angioplasty-alone group, as compared with 11.1 % (95% CI, 9.2%-13.0%) in the angioplasty-with-stent-treated group (RR, 1.28; P = 0.04). There was no effect of the publication year of the studies on the risk of stroke-and/or-death. CONCLUSION: Risk of 1-year stroke-and/or-death and rate of angiographic restenosis may be lower in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis patients treated by angioplasty with stent placement compared with patients treated by angioplasty alone.
The structure of the pulmonary intervalveolar microvascular sheet

Abstract To understand the morphologic basis of the compliance of the pulmonary interalveolar microvascular sheet, we investigated the histology and ultrastructure of the adult beagle interalveolar septum with special emphasis on the “posts” of the intercapillary interstitium. Special stains for collagen and elastin for light and electron microscopy were used; control preparations included tissues exposed to elastase and hyaluronidase prior to staining. In the interalveolar wall remote from vessels and ducts fine collagen fibers surround the posts, corss over the posts to adjacent capillaries, and pass through the posts from one side of the septum to the other in a curving arrangement. In cross-section the overall post configuration is biconcave and collagen is found at post borders in its course through the post. Elastin is more abundant and coarser than collagen, passes linearly through the posts, and is always intimately associated with collagen including the region of the alveolar-capillary membrane in the respiratory area. Following elastase hydrolysis, non-collageneous elements do not stain. Removal of post ground substance with hyaluronidase disrupts the fibroprotein pattern of connective tissue.
Patterns of serum IgM antibodies to GM1 and GD1a gangliosides in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

We studied the incidence and clinical correlates of serum antibodies to GM1 and GD1a gangliosides in patients with classical amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other "motor nerve" syndromes. Serum antibodies to GM1 and GD1a gangliosides were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Our results showed that polyclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies to the GM1 or GD1a ganglioside or both were present at serum dilutions of 1:25 to 1:4,000 in 78% (57/73) of patients with ALS. Only 8% of normal controls had similar antibodies. The pattern of serum antibody reactivity correlated with the pattern of clinical involvement in our patients. Selective reactivity to GD1a ganglioside was common when upper motor neuron signs were prominent. IgM reactivity to GM1 ganglioside was common in ALS patients with prominent lower motor neuron signs. Most patients with motor neuropathies had serum reactivity to both GM1 and GD1a gangliosides. These results provide further evidence of ongoing autoimmune processes in ALS patients. There is a strong relationship between serum antiganglioside antibodies and patterns of clinical involvement in ALS.
Future high energy solar missions (imaging >; 20 MeV neutral flare emissions)

Abstract A recurring fundamental problem in astrophysics is to determine how the Sun can accelerate ions to energies as high as 30 GeV and electrons to possibly comparable energies in a time scale of seconds. Direct evidence for the interactions of these particles with the solar atmosphere is revealed by the observation of pion decay γ rays, bremsstrahlung >;200 MeV and neutrons >;50 MeV, as well as by the neutron events observed by ground level detectors on the Earth. Secondary evidence comes from the observation of the flare related solar energetic particles (SEP) observed in space. However, the sites of acceleration and interaction of these charged particles in the the solar atmosphere is completely unknown. Even though the site of acceleration and interaction of the electrons producing the hard X-ray bremsstrahlung is known from imaging experiments such as the HXT on Yohkoh this result cannot a priori be assumed to be the case for the ions and ultrarelativistic electrons. This paper describes two techniques which will locate the emission regions of high-energy neutral emissions to arcminute or better spatial accuracy and also determine their energy spectra. Such an observation for even one flare would be a definitive advance for understanding solar flare particle acceleration.
Non-Gaussian statistics of simple fluids and associated liquids

Abstract It is shown that the networks of hydrogen bonds and their associated dynamics give water special non-Gaussian properties, distinct from those of simple fluids. This means that the macroscopic properties of water cannot be fully accounted for in terms of linear physics. It is shown that there is an intimate relation between the non-Gaussian statistics and the cooperative processes recently assessed with computer simulation by Bertolini, Tani and Vallauri. It is also shown that in the special case of Gaussian statistics, the linear response theory (LRT) would lead to exact predictions. In water, on the contrary, the LRT can be violated as a consequence of the non-Gaussian character of the system statistics, which, in turn, is dictated by the crucial role played by hydrogen-bond networks. It is argued that spectacular deviations from the predictions of the LRT should be expected to take place on those transport processes, such as electrical conduction, which are essentially cooperative in nature, thereby supporting with different arguments the finding of Nylund and Tsironis. These authors accounted for the non-monotonic dependence of conductivity on temperature with a solitonic model, relying indeed on the crucial role played by hydrogen bonds. In the light of the theory illustrated in the present paper, the very important discovery of Nylund and Tsironis seems to imply that the non-Gaussian properties of water are nothing but the signature of coherent transport processing taking place in the hydrogen-bond network.
Extrapolation Technique for Shaping Tri-Reflectors

A linear extrapolation technique is described here for shaping reflectors to achieve a prescribed aperture distribution. The technique is so simple that a typical design with some 2 x 40, 000 reflector surface points takes less than one minute on a Cray XMP. There is no restriction on the number of reflectors (with two reflectors shaped) or their geometry (symmetrical or offset). The technique is applied to design a Watanabe-type tri-reflector antenna, in which the main reflector is spherical and two subreflectors are shaped to correct the spherical aberration. With an oversized main reflector, the beam of the antenna can be steered over a very wide angular range by rotating subreflectors, while keeping the main reflector and feed stationary. A design example for high directivity is given.
The expression of genes encoding ribosomal subunits and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A depends on biotin and bisnorbiotin in HepG2 cells

Biotin affects gene expression at both the transcriptional and the posttranscriptional level; biotin metabolites might have biotin-like activities with regard to gene expression. Here, human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells were used (i) to identify clusters of biotin-dependent genes, (ii) to determine whether the naturally occurring metabolite bisnorbiotin affects gene expression and (iii) to determine whether biotin and bisnorbiotin affect the expression of genes coding for ribosomal subunits and translation initiation factors. HepG2 cells were cultured in media containing deficient (0.025 nmol/L), physiological (0.25 nmol/L, control) and pharmacological (10 nmol/L) concentrations of biotin; a fourth treatment group consisted of cells cultured in biotin-deficient medium (0.025 nmol/L) supplemented with bisnorbiotin (0.225 nmol/L). Gene expression was quantified by using DNA microarrays and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The expression of 1803 genes depended on biotin concentrations in culture media; the expression of 618 genes depended on bisnorbiotin. Biotin deficiency was associated with increased expression of a gene cluster encoding ribosomal subunits and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A; this effect was reversed by supplementation with biotin and bisnorbiotin. Additional prominent clusters of (bisnor)biotin-dependent genes included DNA-, RNA-, and nucleotide-binding proteins, consistent with a role for biotin in cell signaling and gene expression. Collectively, these data suggest that bisnorbiotin has biotin-like activities regarding gene expression, and that clusters of (bisnor)biotin-dependent genes include genes that play roles in translational activity.
The Real World Language, Culture, and Human Rights: A Profile of Luisa Maffi

The true intellectual capital of a discipline rests in those. Ideas that carry continued relevance, continued application to understanding and resolving fundamental problems. By this measure, the ideas of holism and diversity remain two of the most significant elements of anthropology's intellectual capital. These seemingly simple notions are as important today as they were when anthropologists such as Franz Boas articulated them a century ago. The methodological principle of holism was central to Boas's 1896 critique of the evolutionists' comparative method. It was essential, he argued, to understand "customs in their relation to the total culture of the tribe practicing them"—the "total culture" including such elements as economic organization, linguistic classifications, and ecological context (Race, Language and Culture, 1940, p. 276). Equally important, Boas gave theoretical grounds for valuing diversity, demonstrating that each society had its intrinsic logic and individuality, reflected in both cul...
Rising to the challenge: accelerated pace of discovery transforms marine virology

Marine viruses have important roles in microbial mortality, gene transfer, metabolic reprogramming and biogeochemical cycling. In this Review, we discuss recent technological advances in marine virology including the use of near-quantitative, reproducible metagenomics for large-scale investigation of viral communities and the emergence of gene-based viral ecology. We also describe the reprogramming of microbially driven processes by viral metabolic genes, the identification of novel viruses using cultivation-dependent and cultivation-independent tools, and the potential for modelling studies to provide a framework for studying virus-host interactions. These transformative advances have set a rapid pace in exploring and predicting how marine viruses manipulate and respond to their environment.
Ethnic diversity, traditional norms, and marriage behaviour in Indonesia

What role do cultural norms play in shaping individual behaviour and how does this relationship change with rapid socio-economic development? While modernization and convergence theories predict a weakened relationship between culture and behaviour as individuals rely less on family and community members for economic opportunities, recent research suggests that such norms can persist and continue to influence behaviour. We explored this question for Indonesia, asking whether cultural norms for age at marriage and post-marriage residence—as embodied in local ethnicity-based laws and customs known as ‘adat’—relate to actual marriage behaviour. We demonstrate that adat norms are strong predictors of marriage behaviour, both over time and net of large increases in educational attainment. Our results suggest more generally that traditional marriage norms can persist even when a society is in the process of rapid socio-economic development.
Nucleotide dependent motion and mechanism of action of p97/VCP.

The AAA (ATPases associated with a variety of cellular activities) family of proteins bind, hydrolyze, and release ATP to effect conformational changes, assembly, or disassembly upon their binding partners and substrate molecules. One of the members of this family, the hexameric p97/valosin-containing protein p97/VCP, is essential for the dislocation of misfolded membrane proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum. Here, we observe large motions and dynamic changes of p97/VCP as it proceeds through the ATP hydrolysis cycle. The analysis is based on crystal structures of four representative ATP hydrolysis states: APO, AMP-PNP, hydrolysis transition state ADP·AlF3, and ADP bound. Two of the structures presented herein, ADP and AMP-PNP bound, are new structures, and the ADP·AlF3 structure was re-refined to higher resolution. The largest motions occur at two stages during the hydrolysis cycle: after, but not upon, nucleotide binding and then following nucleotide release. The motions occur primarily in the D2 domain, the D1 α-helical domain, and the N-terminal domain, relative to the relatively stationary and invariant D1α/β domain. In addition to the motions, we observed a transition from a rigid state to a flexible state upon loss of the γ-phosphate group, and a further increase in flexibility within the D2 domains upon nucleotide release. The domains within each protomer of the hexameric p97/VCP deviate from strict 6-fold symmetry, with the more flexible ADP state exhibiting greater asymmetry compared to the relatively rigid ADP·AlF3 state, suggesting a mechanism of action in which hydrolysis and conformational changes move about the hexamer in a processive fashion.
Initial oxidation of fractured surfaces of FeS2(100) by molecular oxygen, water vapor, and air

Abstract Synchrotron-based Fe 2p, S 2p, and O 1s photoemission spectroscopy was used to study the initial stages of oxidation of UHV-fractured (1 0 0) surfaces of pyrite by molecular oxygen, water vapor, and ambient air. Molecular oxygen alone reacts measurably with pyrite surface to yield new oxidized species only for high doses of ∼10 7 L, while reaction with water vapor does not take place even at doses as high as 10 10 L. In both cases, however, monosulfide defects on fractured pyrite surfaces are eradicated by the dosing with O 2 and H 2 O. For high O 2 partial pressures, the extent of reaction with oxygen is comparable to that produced by equivalent air exposures, indicating that the presence of water is not strictly necessary for initial oxidation of pyrite(1 0 0) to occur in our experiments. The formation of several intermediate oxidation products, including sulfur oxoanions and zero-valent sulfur, are quantified by spectral decomposition as a function of dose, and the mode of their formation is discussed.
Constructal tree network for fluid flow between a finite-size volume and one source or sink

Abstract The ‘constructal theory’ of formation of structure in nature is extended to fluid-flow systems. The fluid flow path between one point and a finite-size volume (an infinite number of points) is optimized by minimizing the overall flow resistance when the flow rate and the duct volume are fixed. The solution is constructed as a sequence of optimization and organization steps. The sequence has a definite time direction: it begins with the smallest building block (elemental system, with flow by volumetric diffusion), and proceeds toward larger building blocks (assemblies, with flow collected in ducts). Optimized at each level are the shape of the assembly, the number of constituents (ie, smaller assemblies), and the distribution of the duct volume. It is shown that the ducts of the optimized assemblies form a tree-like structure, in which every architectural detail is deterministic. It is also shown that the structure cannot be determined when the time direction is reversed, from large elements toward smaller elements. The general importance of the constructal law (access-optimization principle) in physics, biology and economics is discussed.
Presence of the metabolic syndrome distinguishes patients with ketosis-prone diabetes who have a Type 2 diabetic phenotype.

Abstract Objective This study was designed to determine if patients with ketosis-prone diabetes could be distinguished clinically on the basis of features of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods Participants with ketosis-prone diabetes admitted to our institution during a 3-year period were studied. One hundred seventy-two patients from four ethnic backgrounds were divided into two groups: with or without MetS, as defined by the World Health Organization. Pearson's chi-square test or one-way ANOVA was used as appropriate to evaluate group differences. Results Of the 172 patients, 74 (43%) had at least three characteristics of MetS (+MetS group), while 98 (57%) had less than three characteristics of MetS (−MetS group). The +MetS group had significantly higher β-cell functional reserve as measured by the glucagon stimulation test [area under the curve (AUC) for C-peptide levels 19.50±2.26 compared with 8.66±1.66 ng/ml over 10 min; P =.0001]. A significantly higher proportion of patients in the +MetS group had preserved β-cell functional reserve than in the −MetS group (70% compared with 30%; P P =.01) and higher C-peptide/glucose ratios (2.01±0.28 compared with 1.14±0.21; P =.02) than the −MetS patients did. Conclusions Patients with ketosis-prone diabetes with the MetS are more likely to have features associated with Type 2 diabetes, despite having developed diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), with better β-cell functional reserve and glycemic control after the index DKA episode.
Protein Radical Formation Resulting from Eosinophil Peroxidase-catalyzed Oxidation of Sulfite

Eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) is an abundant heme protein in eosinophils that catalyzes the formation of cytotoxic oxidants implicated in asthma, allergic inflammatory disorders, and cancer. It is known that some proteins with peroxidase activity (horseradish peroxidase and prostaglandin hydroperoxidase) can catalyze oxidation of bisulfite (hydrated sulfur dioxide), leading to the formation of sulfur trioxide anion radical (·SO3−). This free radical further reacts with oxygen to form peroxymonosulfate anion radical (−O3SOO·) and the very reactive sulfate anion radical (SO4), which is nearly as strong an oxidant as the hydroxyl radical. However, the ability of EPO to generate reactive sulfur radicals has not yet been reported. Here we demonstrate that eosinophil peroxidase/H2O2 is able to oxidize bisulfite, ultimately forming the sulfate anion radical (SO4), and that these reactive intermediates can oxidize target proteins to protein radicals, thereby initiating protein oxidation. We used immuno-spin trapping and confocal microscopy to study protein oxidation by EPO/H2O2 in the presence of bisulfite in a pure enzymatic system and in human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 clone 15 cells, maturated to eosinophils. Polyclonal antiserum raised against the spin trap 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) detected the presence of DMPO covalently attached to the proteins resulting from the DMPO trapping of protein free radicals. We found that sulfite oxidation mediated by EPO/H2O2 induced the formation of radical-derived DMPO spin-trapped human serum albumin and, to a lesser extent, of DMPO-EPO. These studies suggest that EPO-dependent oxidative damage may play a role in tissue injury in bisulfite-exacerbated eosinophilic inflammatory disorders.
Where the Jobs Are Going: Job Sprawl in U.S. Metropolitan Regions, 2001–2006

Problem: Employment is an underemphasized component of sprawl. A measure of job sprawl that accounts for the proximity of employment to populated places is needed to grasp problems of sprawl (espec...
A greedy algorithm for species selection in dimension reduction of combustion chemistry

Computational calculations of combustion problems involving large numbers of species and reactions with a detailed description of the chemistry can be very expensive. Numerous dimension reduction techniques have been developed in the past to reduce the computational cost. In this paper, we consider the rate controlled constrained-equilibrium (RCCE) dimension reduction method, in which a set of constrained species is specified. For a given number of constrained species, the ‘optimal’ set of constrained species is that which minimizes the dimension reduction error. The direct determination of the optimal set is computationally infeasible, and instead we present a greedy algorithm which aims at determining a ‘good’ set of constrained species; that is, one leading to near-minimal dimension reduction error. The partially-stirred reactor (PaSR) involving methane premixed combustion with chemistry described by the GRI-Mech 1.2 mechanism containing 31 species is used to test the algorithm. Results on dimension re...
Efficacy of cough suppressants in children

To test the hypothesis that codeine and dextromethorphan are effective in alleviating the symptoms of acute cough, we conducted a randomized, controlled trial. Eligible patients were children 18 months to 12 years of age, seen in private pediatric practices, with significant night cough of less than 14 days' duration. Study patients were randomly selected to receive codeine, dextromethorphan, or placebo at bedtime for 3 consecutive nights. Outcomes were assessed by the use of a parent questionnaire rating the severity of symptoms at the initiation of therapy, and after each night of the study. Every patient had a cough score (range 0 to 4) and composite symptom score (range 0 to 9) computed for each day of the study. One hundred forty-one doses of study medication were evaluated in 49 patients, including 13 children receiving placebo, 19 dextromethorphan, and 17 codeine. Mean cough and composite symptom scores decreased in each of the three treatment groups on each day of the study; there were no significant differences. Regression analysis, with reduction in cough score as the outcome of interest, showed that neither dextromethorphan nor codeine was significantly more effective than placebo ( p =0.41 and 0.70, respectively). Reduction in cough score was positively correlated with the severity of cough at the start of treatment ( p =0.007). Our data suggest that, in the doses used, neither codeine nor dextromethorphan is superior to placebo in treating night cough in children.
Modeling two-dimensional structure at the core-mantle boundary

Recent studies of SKS waveform modeling emphasize the strong variation of seismic properties at the core-mantle boundary (CMB) and the need for two-dimensional and three-dimensional waveform modeling capabilities. In particular, the bifurcation of SKS into SP _dKS and SKP _dS near 110° shows strong regional variations. The first of these phases has a P wave diffraction along the bottom of the mantle near the source, while the latter phase occurs at the receiver end. Generalized ray theory proves effective in generating theoretical seismograms in this type of problem because each of these diffractions is associated with a particular transmission coefficient: T_(sp) which transmits shear waves into primary waves when crossing the CMB and T_(sp) which transmits the primary waves back into shear waves at the receiver end. Each region can then be isolated and have its separate fine structure, sharp or gradational. Two classes of boundaries are explored: the CMB as a simple, sharp interface and the CMB with a very low velocity transition layer (10% slower than reference models). The two diffractions produced by these structures have diagnostic arrival times and wave shapes and when combined with the geometric SKS produce distinct waveform characteristics not easily generated by other means. Since the ray paths associated with these three phases are virtually identical in the mantle and only differ along a short sample of CMB and in the one-dimensional fluid core, we can isolate the small localized CMB region sampled. Thus the waveform character of the extended SKS in the range of 105° to 120° becomes an excellent CMB probe which we demonstrate on a small sample of observations from the Fiji-Tonga region as recorded in North America.
Intraocular Lens Power Calculations for Multifocal Intraocular Lenses

We performed calculations for anterior and posterior chamber intraocular lenses, determining the necessary power for emmetropia and 3 diopters of myopia for various axial lengths and corneal powers. Our results demonstrate that to achieve an effective add of 3.00 diopters at the spectacle plane (reading distance of 33 cm), the fabricated add (labeled add) on an intraocular lens must vary from 3.3 diopters for an anterior chamber lens in a patient with a flat cornea, to 5.1 diopters for a posterior chamber lens in a patient with a steep cornea. For most patients, targeting for an effective add of 3 diopters is appropriate, but factors such as availability of fabricated adds from the manufacturer and unusual patient requirements for near vision, may alter this target. We reviewed alternatives with monofocal lenses, such as monovision and compound myopic astigmatism.
Dehydroepiandrosterone Decreases Behavioral Despair in High-but not Low-Anxiety Rats

Outbred Sprague-Dawley rats exhibit considerable heterogeneity within a population when evaluated for a variety of biologic functions, such as dietary fat intake, alcohol preference, and expression of anxiety. To understand the neuroendocrine basis for depression and anxiety, we routinely assess outbred rats for behavioral despair (Porsolt’s test), anxiety (elevated plus-maze), and urinary excretion of a variety of hormones. In one such study, we observed a significant correlation (r2 = 0.337; n = 30; p < 0.01) between the level of anxiety and the degree of behavioral despair. Within the above population, two distinct subgroups emerged: one with high anxiety and the other with low anxiety. We next evaluated the effect of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), an anxiolytic neurosteroid, on the despair response in the two groups of rats. Treatment of high-anxiety rats with DHEA significantly diminished behavioral despair. In contrast, DHEA did not affect behavioral despair in low-anxiety rats. In conclusion, the results presented here show DHEA to be effective as an antidespair agent in rats with both high anxiety and despair.
Method to convert Kinect's 3D depth data to a 2D map for indoor SLAM

Mobile robotics has been strongly linked to localization and mapping especially for navigation purpose. A robot needs a sensor to see objects around it, avoid them and also map the surrounding area. The use of 1D and 2D proximity sensors such as ultrasonic sensor, sonar and laser range finder for area mapping is believed to be less effective since they do not provide information in Y or Z (horizontal and vertical) direction. The robot may miss an object due to its shape and position; thus increasing the risk of collision as well as inaccurate map. In this paper, a 3D visual device particularly Microsoft Kinect was used to perform area mapping. The 3D depth data from the device's depth sensor was retrieved and converted into 2D map using the presented method. A Graphical User Interface (GUI) was also implemented on the base station to depict the real-time map. It was found that the method applied has successfully mapped the potentially missing objects when using 1D or 2D sensor. The convincing results shown in this paper suggest that the Kinect is suitable for indoor SLAM application given that the device's limitations are solved.
Subject-based and absolutive-based syntactic processes in Kamchadal

Abstract One of the most important typological distinctions in morphology and syntax has been that between ergative and nominative (also called accusative) languages. There are two primary criteria for classifying languages along these lines - a morphological basis dependent on surface cases and verbal agreement and a syntactic basis developed within the framework of relational grammar. Kamchadal cannot be readily classified according to either criterion, although related languages in its family are ergative. In this paper I will explain how the Kamchadal system developed through a historical change that affected both surface morphology and deeper syntactic processes. Further, I will suggest how the framework of relational grammar should be modified to accommodate Kamchadal syntax. This modification will also accommodate recent theoretical findings of Anderson (1976) and Moravcsik (1978).
The Risk-Return Trade-off in Converting Wealth into Cash

This article examines the risk-return trade-off an individual or trustee who decides to liquidate a position in an asset. Converting concentrated wealth into cash is not without risk as it may not be instantaneous. Just like the selection of an optimal asset mix along the “efficient frontier,” the liquidation problem requires careful balancing of the exposure to the asset return variance (risk) against sale-induced price concessions (cost). An appealing decision tool is found in a value-at-risk function used by banks to manage overall trading risk. The individual maximizes the expected profit from the sale strategy minus a penalty function for exposure to the price risk. The penalty “weight” is related to a selected loss confidence interval.
Cationic surfactants for micellar electrokinetic chromatography: 1. Characterization of selectivity using the linear solvation energy relationships model

MEKC and the linear solvation energy relationship (LSER) model have been applied to two series of cationic surfactants. The synthetic flexibility of the quaternary ammonium group is exploited to generate the two series, one consisting of linear substitutions and the other incorporating the ammonium into ring structures of varying size. The effects of the head group structure on the CMC, aggregation number, and electrophoretic properties of the surfactants were determined. These surfactants were also characterized with the LSER model, which allowed the contributions of five chemical factors to the interactions between solutes and the micelles to be evaluated. Trends were observed in the cohesivity and polarity of the linear surfactant series, with both increasing with the size of the head group. No trends in the LSER parameters were observed in the cyclic series, but the LSER results do show that the surfactants with cyclic head groups provide a significantly different solvation environment from the linear series. Additional trends were observed in the aggregation behavior and chromatographic properties of the surfactants. These included changes in the CMCs, aggregation numbers, EOF, and electrophoretic mobility of the micelles that correlate to changes in head group size.
Virtual Reality in Medicine: A Personal Perspective

This personal perspective is an attempt to look at the role and impact of virtual reality (VR) as related to medicine and medical practice over the past 10-15 years. A similar treatise was recently published (Robb, 2002) in much shorter form. This more complete version is still not intended to be, nor can it be, fully comprehensive and inclusive of all developments or viewpoints. It is primarily based on the author's experience and opinion. Although such a review begs for many references to published works, that too is eschewed in the interest of preserving, for better or worse, the single view of the author in this article. Only seven references are included which contain copious other references to much of the material touched upon in this essay. To the extent that one can learn from history, this synopsis will also fall short, not so much due to lack of confirming references, but rather because the impact of VR in medicine has been an evolutionary culmination of digression and progression that has resulted in some success and useful contributions but also some wasted time and resources.
Vibrational Fundamentals of CF2N2 from the Ultraviolet Absorption Spectrum

Abstract The ultraviolet absorption spectrum of CF2N2 has been observed. The suggested vibrational assignment is consistent with the previously proposed cyclic diazirine structure.
Closed Form Solutions for the Interlaminar Stress Field in Angle-Ply and Cross-Ply Laminates

The solution to the problem of interlaminar stresses at a straight free edge in a com posite laminate is obtained in closed form for two special and important cases: angle-ply and cross-ply laminates. These solutions are derived using the Force Balance Method and the principle of minimum complementary energy. The results are favorably compared to the predictions of other analyses found in the literature. The solution procedure is found to be simpler and more efficient than other analytical methods. In addition, for some special cases of cross-ply laminates, the solution is shown to be identical to the predictions of a modified plate theory that includes through-the-thickness stretching.
The identity of lacunar dementia and Binswanger disease

It is postulated here that the dementia occurring in patients with lacunar strokes is due to an ischemic leukoencephalopathy. Severity of the dementia correlates, not with the volume of brain tissue lost from large-artery infarctions, but rather, with the extent of cortex disconnection resulting from demyelination. The term Lacunar Dementia is proposed, instead of the poorly known eponym "Binswanger disease" or the cumbersome descriptive name "subcortical arteriosclerotic encephalopathy." Clinically, Lacunar Dementia presents with gait difficulties, urinary incontinence, parkinsonian features, pseudobulbar palsy, emotional incontinence and dementia. High-resolution CT scan shows decrease density of frontal and periventricular white matter, without contrast enhancement; ventricular dilation, and lacunar infarcts. Small-artery disease lipohyalinosis is the cause of the lacunes and the leukoencephalopathy. Since the advent of the high-resolution CT scan, the frequency of lacunar dementia seems to be increasing, in contrast with the number of cases of multi-infarct dementia.
Spatially resolved U(VI) partitioning and speciation: implications for plume scale behavior of contaminant U in the Hanford vadose zone.

Spatially Resolved U(VI) Partitioning and Speciation: Implications for Plume Scale Behavior of Contaminant U in the Hanford Vadose Zone Jiamin Wan 1* , Yongman Kim 1 , Tetsu K. Tokunaga 1 , Zheming Wang 2 , Suvasis Dixit 1 , Carl I. Steefel 1 , Eduardo Saiz 3 , Martin Kunz 4 , Nobumichi Tamura 4 *Corresponding author phone: (510) 486-6004; email: jwan@lbl.gov. 1. Earth Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory 2. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 3. Material Science Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory 4. Advanced Light Source (ALS), Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory ABSTRACT A saline-alkaline brine containing high concentrations of U(VI) was accidentally spilled at the Hanford Site in 1951, introducing 10 tons of U into sediments under storage tank BX-102. U concentrations in the deep vadose zone and groundwater plumes increase with time, yet how the U has been migrating is not fully understood. We simulated the spill event in laboratory soil columns, followed by aging, and obtained spatially resolved U partitioning and speciation along simulated plumes. We found after aging, at apparent steady state, that the pore aqueous phase U concentrations remained surprisingly high (up to 0.022 M), in close agreement with the recently reported high U concentrations (up to 0.027 M) in the vadose zone plume (1). The pH values of aged pore liquids varying from 10 to 7, consistent with the measured pH of the field borehole sediments varying from 9.5 to 7.4 (2), from near the plume source to the plume front. The direct measurements of aged pore liquids together with thermodynamic calculations using
Comparison of two ultracentrifugation procedures for separation of nonhuman primate lipoproteins.

Abstract A comparison of nonhuman primate plasma lipoproteins isolated by swinging bucket rotor density gradient or fixed angle rotor differential ultracentrifugation is described. Whereas these two methods produced comparable results for the composition of low density (LDL) and high density (HDL) lipoproteins, the very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) fraction isolated with the swinging-bucket rotor contained relatively more cholesterol (free and esterified) and less phospholipid and protein than that fraction obtained with the fixed-angle rotor. Estimations of lipoprotein concentration by agarose gel electrophoresis and particle size by electron microscopy coupled with molar ratios of surface to core constituents indicate that the swinging bucket procedure resulted in a more complete harvest of VLDL particles, especially those in the larger size range.