cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical characterization of water-in-oil microemulsions formed by a binary 1,3-dioxolane alkyl ethoxylate/Aerosol-OT surfactant system

Abstract The physicochemical behavior of the binary surfactant system consisting of the ionic surfactant sodium bis (2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate, or Aerosol-OT (AOT), and the two-tailed cyclic ketal alkyl ethoxylate (2-tridecyl, 2-ethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl) methoxy]- O ′-methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)], or CK-2,13, in water/isooctane water-in-oil (w/o-) microemulsion systems enriched in AOT was performed to understand the arrangement of the two surfactants at the interface and the behavior and properties of the microemulsion systems to enable applications. Many of the properties observed were similar to microemulsions formed by AOT/C 12 E 4 or C 12 E 5 , the latter two being linear alkyl ethoxylates of comparable tail length and average ethoxylate size, including a decrease of water solubilization and increase of attractive interactions with an increase of ethoxylate surfactant concentration, the latter determined via small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). SANS also demonstrated that the increase of the CK-2,13 fraction among the surfactants from 0.1 to 0.2 to 0.3 induced a change in shape from spheres to ellipsoids to cylinders, a trend not reported for AOT/C i E j binary mixtures, and that the surface area per CK-2,13 molecule was approximately 35 A 2 , nearly identical to the value reported for C 12 E 5 . Profiles of electrical conductivity versus the water-surfactant mole ratio ( W 0 ) for microemulsions prepared at low surfactant concentrations (far below the percolation threshold) were bell-shaped, consistent with the charge-fluctuation model, and shifted to lower W 0 as the alkyl ethoxylate fraction was increased. The extent of the shift was greater for CK-2,13 than for an equal proportion of C 12 E 4 , suggesting CK-2,13 possesses a more profound influence on microemulsion properties. Analysis of the OH stretching region (3100–3700 cm −1 ) of the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic spectrum for w/o-microemulsions demonstrated that an increase of the CK-2,13 content of the total surfactant led to an increase of water molecules localized near the Na + counterion of AOT of 0.7 mol water per mol surfactant, suggesting the water molecules of hydration for the ethoxylate group reside near AOT's counterion, resulting in increased dissociation of the counterion, hence to an increased hydrophilicity for AOT.
Effects of positive and negative music on performance of a karate drill.

Summary.-Although athletes frequently report using music whde training or before an event, laboratory studies have not detected a beneficial effect, so the influence of positive and negative music on performance of a selected karate drill was investigated in this double-blind study using 14 volunteers from two Shotokan karate schools. Each subject performed a preselected drill three times following positive and negative music and white noise in a random order. Performance of the drill was rated on a 7item, 5-point scale by 2 raters. Differences among conditions were assessed via a within-subjects t test for paired scores. The subjects' self-evaluation of their performance was also examined. Enhancement of performance for both types of music over white noise was significant. Music is frequently used by athletes to "psych-up"; however, research on music and athletic performance has not yielded expected enhancement. Schwartz, Fernhall, and Plowman (1990) found that listening to fast-tempo music did not affect stationary bicycle performance. Copeland and Franks (1991) measured physiological (heart rate) and psychological effects of different types of music on treadmill endurance but found little to support the hypothesis that fast or loud music increases physiological or psychological arousal. Soft, slow music had a relaxing effect as reported by the subjects and evidenced physiologically since time to exhaustion was significantly longer during this music condition.
Modeling Studies of Multiphase Fluid and Heat Flow Processes in Nuclear Waste Isolation

Multiphase fluid and heat flow plays an important role in many problems relating to the disposal of nuclear wastes in geologic media. Examples include boiling and condensation processes near heat-generating wastes, flow of water and formation gas in partially saturated formations, evolution of a free gas phase from waste package corrosion in initially water-saturated environments, and redistribution (dissolution, transport, and precipitation) of rock minerals in non-isothermal flow fields. Such processes may strongly impact upon waste package and repository design considerations and performance. This paper summarizes important physical phenomena occurring in multiphase and nonisothermal flows, as well as techniques for their mathematical modeling and numerical simulation. Illustrative applications are given for a number of specific fluid and heat flow problems, including: thermohydrologic conditions near heat-generating waste packages in the unsaturated zone; repository-wide convection effects in the unsaturated zone; effects of quartz dissolution and precipitation for disposal in the saturated zone; and gas pressurization and flow corrosion of low-level waste packages. 34 refs; 7 figs; 2 tabs.
The temperature dependence of CO2 production of the north american lizards Cnemidophorus velox and Sceloporus undulatus

The relationship of body temperature and resting CO 2 production was examined for the lizards Cnemidophorus velox and Sceloporus undulatus. The CO 2 production of both species was characterized by broad temperature ranges (30-38°C) in which no temperature dependence of CO 2 production was observed. Also, both species showed considerable betwee individual variability. The metabolic rate of the widely foraging species, C. velox, is significantly higher than that of the wait-and-ambush species S. undulatus. However, this difference is eliminated when the size of the animals and activity times are considered; both species then have similar estimated average daily energy costs.
The effect of relative humidity on osmoregulation in the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus)

Osmoregulatory balance was studied in four young, tamed squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus, Columbia) after acclimatization to relative humidities (rh) commonly used in laboratories (30% and 50%) and to higher humidities representative of the dry and wet seasons in their natural environment (75% and 95%). The temperature was constant at 25°C and the light-dark cycle was 12:12 hours. The animals were maintained in large metabolism cages and were free moving. Water consumption and urine flow rates increased at each higher humidity from 30% rh to 75% rh and then decreased at 95% rh (p<0.05). Fecal water loss was greater with higher humidity (p<0.05). Evaporative water loss remained relatively constant until a break between 75% and 95% rh, at which point it decreased dramatically (p<0.05). Expressed relative to total water intake, evaporative water loss demonstrated a progressive decrease with increasing humidity: 65%, 56%, 51%, and 42%, at 30%, 50%, 75%, and 95% rh. This indicates that as the humidity approaches maximum saturation, not only is the evaporative water loss component necessarily diminished, but also the apparent precipitation of alternate strategies of thermoregulation leads to a reduction in the overall water requirements of the animals. Potassium/sodium excretion ratios were relatively constant at 30%, 50%, and 95% rh but decreased significantly at 75% rh (p<0.05). As a reflection of adrenocorticosteroid activity, this suggests that at 25°C, 75% rh is an optimal humidity in the maintenance of squirrel monkeys. The significant osmoregulatory alteration occurring between 75% and 95% rh provides further evidence that relative humidity may be an important factor in the seasonal physiological cycles of the squirrel monkey.
Children Have More Need of Models Than Critics Early Language Experience and Brain Development

A review of Betty Hart and Todd Risley, Meaningful Differences in the Everyday Experience of Young American Children. Baltimore: Brookes. 1995. 268 pp. ISBM 1-55766-197-9. Hardcover; $22.00.Travis Thompson is Director of the John F. Kennedy Center.This manuscript was prepared in part with funds provided by P30 HD15052 from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development to Vanderbilt University. The author expresses his gratitude to Ford Ebner, Director of the Institute of Developmental Neuroscience and Averill King of the Susan Gray School for Children of the John F. Kennedy Center, as well as Ann M. Neely, Assistant Provost and Professor of Education, Vanderbilt University, and David Lubinski, Co-Director of the Center for Gifted Youth, Iowa State University, for their thoughtful suggestions and comments.
PAA film application and the amalgam-PAA-glass ionomer bond.

Abstract The influence of application thickness of the PAA film and the vigor with which it is brush-applied on the bond shear strength of the amalgam-PAA-glass ionomer bond was investigated. Six different PAA film thicknesses (0.020″, 0.015″, 0.010″, 0.005″, 0.002″, and “thin”) and 2 techniques of brush application (vigorous brushing for 10 s or minimal brushing) were employed. Samples were shear-tested after one week storage at 37°C and 100% relative humidity. ANOVA revealed that only for the minimally brushed groups did PAA film application thickness have a statistically significant effect on bond shear strength, while vigorous brush application improved bond shear strength only at the thicker film thickness applications. The results are explained in terms of differences in the composition of the adhesive film.
MOVEMENT IN CORRIDORS: ENHANCEMENT BY PREDATION THREAT, DISTURBANCE, AND HABITAT STRUCTURE

Movement by stream fish is known to be strongly influenced by abiotic factors such as floods and temperature, but roles of biotic factors, such as predation threat, and interactions of abiotic and biotic factors are less clear. Predation threat is known to fragment populations of killifish, Rivulus hartii, in Trinidad rivers by rendering habitat inhospitable. We asked whether such spatial fragmentation was accompanied by reduced movement by fish in the predator-occupied zone of a river, relative to a zone free of the strong piscivore, Hoplias malabaricus, that causes the fragmentation. We used a 19-mo marking study in a river with a predator barrier, field experiments in the river, and mesocosms to evaluate four hypotheses: (1) the predator reduces prey movement in the river; (2) for the special case of prey leaving refugia, the predator increases movement; (3) movement positively cor- relates with water level in the predator's presence; and (4) complex physical structure in hazardous habitat promotes prey movement. We marked 1467 Rivulus in the natural study areas and had 1015 recaptures. Contrary to Hypothesis 1 but in support of Hypothesis 2, prey showed greater movement along the river in the presence of the predator, regardless of whether the fish resided in a refuge at its previous capture. An experiment with introduced fish confirmed the findings that move- ment was elevated in the predator's presence. Effects of an abiotic factor (water level, Hypothesis 3) and a phenotypic trait (body size) depended upon whether the predator was present: movement was independent of water level and body size in the absence of the predator, but positively related to both variables in the predator's presence. Emigration from the river to tributaries was also independent of body size in the predator's absence, but positively size-dependent in the predator's presence. Complex physical structure (Hy- pothesis 4), in the form of cobble added to experimental pools, enhanced the transit of fish through hazardous pools. This study shows that spatial fragmentation does not necessarily imply that movement between fragments will be impeded (dynamical fragmentation). Rather, it is possible that movement among spatial fragments may be enhanced by the same factor, predation threat, that produced the spatial fragmentation in the first place. Because of the context-dependent effects of an abiotic factor (water level) and a phenotypic variable (body size) on movement, the study also emphasizes the need to clarify the exact role of predation as an agent promoting or retarding movement, and it suggests a need for incorporating such parameters into models of movement and metapopulation dynamics.
Reflux-Induced Collagen Type V Sensitization: Potential Mediator of Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome

Background Lung transplantation continues to have poor long-term survival partly because of the high incidence of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been implicated in BOS pathogenesis. We investigated the role of collagen type V [col(V)] sensitization in this process. Methods Only primary lung transplant recipients were included. Reflux status was assessed with pH monitoring, impedance plethysmography, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Sensitivity to col(V) was determined with trans vivo delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction (DTH). Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed. Results Of the 54 recipients, 26 had proven GERD. There were no significant between-group differences in diagnosis; donor and recipient age; sex; ischemic time; single vs bilateral; human leukocyte antigen A, B, and DR matching cytomegalovirus status; acute rejections; or mean follow-up period. The mean DTH response in the GERD group was 25.7 × 10−4 inches vs 18.3 × 10−4 inches in the non-GERD group (P = .023). There was a significant reduction in BOS-free survival in the GERD group for both BOS-I (GERD+, 28.3%; GERD−, 86.6%; P = .0001) and BOS-II/III (GERD+, 66.2%; GERD−, 91.7%; P = .0374). A second cohort of 53 patients awaiting lung transplantation also was assayed. The mean DTH response in the GERD group was 24.0 × 10−4 inches vs 13.1 × 10−4 inches in the non-GERD group (P = .003). There were no differences in age or sex. Conclusions GERD is strongly associated with the development of BOS after primary lung transplantation. Col(V) sensitization is associated with reflux and BOS and may play an intermediary role in the pathogenesis of BOS. Trials using col(V) reactivity to assess the impact of antireflux procedures in patients with lung transplantation and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are warranted.
On the relationship between the equivocation and other probabilistic distance measures used for feature selection

Some inequalities are derived between the equivocation, the Bhattacharyya coefficient, the divergence, the Kalmogrov variational distance, and the Matusita distance.
Seeing it for yourself.

Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency is a genetically transmitted disorder associated with an increased risk of emphysema and liver disease. The highest incidence occurs in whites of Northern European descent; the disorder affects between 70,000 and 100,000 individuals in the United States. Most persons with alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency are misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. The laboratory tests used to screen for and diagnose the disorder are simple, inexpensive, and provide an opportunity to prevent the development of clinical disease through education about cofactor avoidance. This article provides a review of the epidemiology, genetics, and clinical presentation of this disorder.
Further studies on environmental factors that modify the toxicity of nickel to microbes

The toxicity of nickel (Ni) to mycelial growth of filamentous fungi and to replication of eubacteria, an actinomycete, and yeasts was influenced by various environmental abiotic factors. Sulfide and phosphate reduced the toxicity of Ni by the formation of insoluble salts. The clay minerals, montmorillonite and, to a much lesser extent, kaolinite, and the hydrous oxides of aluminum or manganese reduced the toxicity, presumably by the adsorption of cationic Ni to their net negatively charged surfaces. Amino acids, such as aspartic acid, complex organics, such as tryptone, casamino acids, and yeast extract, and chelating agents, such as citrate, 2,6-pyridine dicarboxylic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, significantly reduced the toxicity of Ni, presumably as the result of decreased attraction between the net negatively charged cell surfaces and the complexed Ni. The toxicity of Ni varied in different commercial media, with greater toxicities occurring in nutrient broth and MR-VP medium and lower toxicities occurring in lauryl tryptone, Elliker, microinoculum, and tryptic soy broths. Nickel had a lower toxicity in solid media gelled with Gelrite than with Bacto-agar.
TOWARD EXPRESSION MAPPING OF ALBINISM-DEAFNESS SYNDROME (ADFN) LOCUS ON CHROMOSOME XQ26

We have employed a direct cDNA selection methodology to isolate transcribed sequences encoded in the human chromosomal interval Xq26 that contains the gene for X-chromosome linked albinism deafness syndrome (ADFN). ADFN had been previously mapped to an 8 centi Morgan region on chromosome Xq26. We have constructed six cDNA libraries specific to six YACs mapping to a 1.5 mb span at the distal boundary of the ADFN locus. The YAC specific libraries were characterized for the presence of unique cDNAs. We have identified 15 transcribed sequences from the selected cDNA libraries. These cDNAs matched to three well characterized sequences corresponding to steroid 5-alpha reductase, ribosomal protein L28, and a short transcript that has been shown to be expressed in human brain cortex. Seven of the cDNAs matched to expressed sequence tags or other sequences of unknown function, and five cDNAs shared no homology with sequences in the public data bases. Each one of these sequences was represented as 3–10 clones in the set that was subjected to sequencing. Further characterization of these transcribed sequences may indicate potential candidates responsible for ADFN. We have discussed the utility of cDNA selection methodology in assembling transcript maps and identifying potential candidates for genetic deafness.
Can Performance on Daily Activities Discriminate Between Older Adults with Normal Cognitive Function and Those with Mild Cognitive Impairment

Objectives To examine whether preclinical disability in performance of cognitively focused instrumental activity of daily living (C-IADL) tasks can discriminate between older adults with normal cognitive function and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and, secondarily, to determine the two tasks with the strongest psychometric properties and assess their discriminative ability so as to generate diagnosis-relevant information about cognitive changes associated with MCI and mild neurocognitive disorder according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, criteria. Design Secondary analyses of cross-sectional data from a cohort of individuals diagnosed with normal cognitive function or MCI. Setting Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Participants Older adults with remitted major depression (N = 157). Measurements Diagnosis of cognitive status was made at the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Pittsburgh. Performance on eight C-IADLs was measured using the criterion-referenced, observation-based Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills (PASS). Results Ninety-six older adults with normal cognitive function (mean age 72.5 ± 5.9) and 61 with MCI (mean age 75.5 ± 6.3) participated. The eight C-IADLs demonstrated 81% accuracy in discriminating cognitive status (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.81, P Conclusion This is the first demonstration of the discriminative ability of preclinical disability to distinguish older adults with MCI from cognitively normal older adults. These findings highlight potential tasks that, when measured using the observation-based PASS, demonstrate greater effort for individuals with MCI. These tasks may be considered when attempting to diagnose MCI or mild neurocognitive disorder in clinical practice and research.
Role of NFκB in the regulation of macrophage colony stimulating factor by tumor necrosis factor-α in ST2 bone stromal cells

Expression of MCSF in bone is important to the regulation of osteoclastogenesis. We show here that tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) increases the production of both soluble (sMCSF) and membrane-bound (mMCSF) macrophage colony stimulating factor by ST2 bone stromal cells. Treatment of ST2 cells with TNFalpha caused sMCSF levels to increase by 394+/-5% from basal; mMCSF rose by 316+/-66% from 30+/-10 per 100,000 cells in the same time. These increases were consistent with increased expression of mRNAs encoding both isoforms. Increases in MCSF mRNA are also seen after stimulation with dexamethasone. To investigate the potential role of NFkappaB in this TNFalpha effect, we treated cells with sodium salicylate (NaS), an inhibitor of NFkappaB translocation. NaS decreased TNFalpha-stimulated NFkappaB activation by 50% as assessed by EMSA. Despite inhibition of NFkappaB signaling, NaS enhanced TNFalpha-stimulated MCSF secretion and did not prevent TNFalpha-stimulated increases in sMCSF mRNA, suggesting that NFkappaB was not involved in TNFalpha effect on the gene. TNFalpha failed to stimulate transcription of a 774 nucleotide MCSF promoter-luciferase reporter transfected into ST2 cells which contained the NFkappaB consensus sequence. Deletion of the seven nucleotides containing the NFkappaB homology response sequence from the MCSF promoter increased basal gene transcription by twofold. TNFalpha thus contributes to an osteoclastogenic environment through upregulation of bone expression of both MCSF isoforms. Our data suggests that NFkappaB is not the major signaling pathway through which this occurs.
NO{sub x} control by catalytic combustion of natural gas

Catalytic combustion of natural gas, for applications such as gas turbine operation, is one means of reducing NO{sub x} emissions that are of increasing environmental concern. The high temperature, ca 1200{degrees}C, involved in the catalytic combustor for gas turbine operation requires the use of metal oxide catalysts because of their high thermal stability compared to noble metals. This paper reports the catalytic properties of Sr-substituted LaCoO{sub 3} perovskites for the combustion of methane and NO{sub x} formation/reduction. The NO{sub x} emissions under catalytic combustion conditions were less than 2 ppm at temperatures up to 1100{degrees}C. The La{sub 1{minus}x}Sr{sub x}CoO{sub 3} perovskites have considerable activity for NO{sub x} decomposition and reduction under combustion conditions. Addition of strontium to the perovskite increased the activity for both methane combustion and NO{sub x} reduction. Temperature Programmed Reduction and oxygen-Temperature Programmed Desorption results show an increase lattice oxygen mobility with increased strontium substitution in the LaCoO{sub 3} perovskites. The effect of strontium substitution on methane combustion and NO{sub x} reduction will be presented.
Testing for treatment related trend with partially exchangeable clustered data

When testing for treatment related effect, it is common to focus on data that describe some primary response, even though an experiment might yield data on secondary, less conspicuous effects. An example of such an experiment can be found in developmental toxicity studies, where a primary response might be the presence of skeletal malformation in a fetus, and a secondary effect might be reduced weight. In such studies, weight reduction may occur not only among malformed fetuses, but also among normal fetuses. In this paper, we use a likelihood ratio procedure to construct treatment related trend tests for developmental experiments with such outcomes. We assume that within each cluster, data are partially exchangeable and we use the presence or absence of malformations as categorical covariates. Two models are considered for the covariance structures: In the general model, partially exchangeable covariance matrices are used for each cluster within dose groups. In the homogeneous model, a common exchangeable covariance matrix is used for all clusters. Maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) of unknown parameters in the general model are obtained by directly maximizing the log-likelihood function through careful numerical consideration, while MLEs of parameters of teh homogeneous model are obtained through an iterative procedure. Two applications to developmental toxicity data are described.
A UWB SiGe LNA for multi-band applications with self-healing based on DC extraction of device characteristics

We present an ultra-wideband, Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) implemented in a Silicon-Germanium Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor (SiGe HBT) technology. This SiGe LNA covers a frequency range of 8–18 GHz and achieves a peak gain of 15.6 dB at nominal bias and a nominal OIP3 of 3 dBm at 13 GHz. The Noise Figure (NF) of the LNA is 3.6–7.9 dB across band, and it consumes 7 mA from a 3.3 V supply. This LNA incorporates bias control knobs for circuit ‘self-healing’ to compensate for process-induced (or other) variations in performance metrics. Process variations are detected using a companion source measure unit (SMU) test circuit that gathers DC device information to determine the healing to be applied.
An agency analysis of the effect of long-term performance plans on managerial decision making

Abstract Existing literature documents a positive stock market reaction to the announcement of long-term performance plans as well as subsequently higher growth rates in earnings per share and return on equity (ROE). These findings are consistent with the notion that such performance plans provide an incentive to managers to reduce the magnitude of agency conflict present within the modern corporation. Using a paired sample design, this paper addresses the specific sources of superior post-adoption ROE performance. We fail to observe any evidence of improvement in total sales, total asset turnover or the management of long-term debt. We find that the post-adoption increase in ROE growth is primarily attributable to improved profit margins, which in turn is a result of a lower Cost Of Goods Sold (COGS) and reduced inventory related costs. Specifically, we observe lower inventory size and a greater inventory turnover in the post-adoption period. We further report a reduction in short-term debt usage, which is consistent with lower inventory related costs. We also find that the number of employees declines in the post adoption period, which is consistent with a lower COGS. We find no evidence, however, that managers significantly reduce depreciation, advertising or R&D expenses. Moreover, it does not appear that managers attempt to manipulate reported earnings by increasing accruals. The obvious implication of this study is that through the adoption of long term performance plans, shareholders can mitigate the agency problem by inducing management to reduce wasteful expenditures on excessively large workforces and inventories. These results suggest that a prominent manifestation of agency conflict within the firm is lack of managerial oversight over the size of the corporate workforce and inventories.
The adsorption of H-atoms on polycrystalline β-silicon carbide

The adsorption of atomic hydrogen on a polycrystalline β-silicon carbide (SiC) surface has been studied using temperature-programmed desorption (TPD). Atomic hydrogen adsorbs on this surface, whereas molecular hydrogen does not. Upon heating, the hydrogen recombines and desorbs as H2, producing two peaks in the TPD spectrum at 975 and 1130 K. The unusually broad width of the desorption peaks is attributed to a distribution of surface binding energies for hydrogen atoms. The desorption spectra are fit using a model that assumes two adsorption sites and a Gaussian distribution of binding energies. The average activation energies derived for the two peaks are 63 and 72 kcal/mol.
Economies of Emotion, Familiarity, Fantasy, and Desire: Emotional Labor in Ho Chi Minh City's Sex Industry

This article examines the contemporary sex industry in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, a country that has undergone rapid economic restructuring over the past 20 years. Drawing on seven months of ethnog...
Insensitivity of synthetic LRF in LH-release of rhesus monkey

Abstract Serum concentrations of LH were measured daily by radioimmunoassay throughout the menstrual cycles of 8 rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta). A midcycle LH surge was observed in all animals studied on days 10 to 17 (mean 13.5) of the cycle with an increase of 2- to 7-fold (mean 5) from the levels of follicular and luteal phase. The apparent ovulation was confirmed by the increase of serum progesterone after midcycle LH surge in all animals. The effect of synthetic LH-releasing factor (LRF) on the release of LH was then studied in 7 rhesus monkeys with different endocrine milieu, but no detectable response was observed with a single intravenous administration of 1 to 50 g which has been shown to be effective in humans. This disparity was unexpected and suggests a species difference in responsiveness to the synthetic decapeptide between monkeys and humans.
Biochemical characterization of recombinant hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 4B: evidence for ATP/GTP hydrolysis and adenylate kinase activity.

While nonstructural protein 4B (NS4B) from hepatitis C virus (HCV) is absolutely required for viral propagation, a full understanding of the enzymatic properties of this protein is lacking. Previous studies suggest that NS4B is located at the endoplasmic reticulum and that the protein structure consists of four central transmembrane domains with the N- and C-termini located in the cytoplasm of the host cell. To characterize the enzymatic activity of NS4B, the full-length protein with a C-terminal His tag was expressed in Sf9 insect cells and stabilized with nonionic detergents during purification. Chemical cross-linking experiments using GTP-γ-azidoanilide and ATP-γ-azidoanilide and equilibrium binding analyses with GTPγS and ATPγS show that both GTP and ATP are bound by NS4B, with ATP displaying a higher affinity. Analyses of enzymatic reactions catalyzed by NS4B indicate that the terminal phosphate groups of ATP, GTP, and GDP are removed to produce ADP, GDP, and GMP, respectively. The kcat for hydrolysi...
In-Home Particle Concentrations and Childhood Asthma Morbidity

BackgroundAlthough outdoor particulate matter (PM) has been linked to mortality and asthma morbidity, the impact of indoor PM on asthma has not been well established.ObjectiveThis study was designe...
Pharmacy does provide value, but is the profession built to last?

Reflecting on the evolution of pharmacy practice over the past 50 years, I realize that pharmacy has a lot to be proud of. There are numerous examples of pharmacists providing the highest level of clinical services to patients, and the demand for pharmacists continues to grow.[1][1] The past 50
Individual differences in information processing during concept learning

Information processing strategies of Ss differing in intelligence were evaluated. Ss of lowest intelligence were found to use the same processes in learning both mediated and nonmediated concepts, whereas, high-intelligence Ss used symbolic processes in learning mediated concepts which they did not employ in learning nonmediated concepts. These findings suggest that mediation effects may not operate across all Ss as is often assumed.
The quantum mechanical extension of the Boltzmann transport equation and optical absorption in semiconductors

Abstract Free carrier absorption at frequencies just below the fundamental absorption edge in the semiconducting compounds InAs, InP, GaAs, and CdTe, requires a quantum mechanical treatment for its correct description. This frequency region, which lies in the near infrared, is characterized by a theoretically predicted and experimentally observed wavelength dependence of the absorption coefficient, which is close to λ 3 . At sufficiently low frequencies, however, the quantum treatment reduces to the quasiclassical Boltzmann one, giving a λ 2 dependence of the absorption coefficient, which is tentatively indicated by experimental measurements on the same materials. This paper examines the intermediate and low frequency region of free carrier absorption, and the connection of the quantum theory with the quasiclassical Boltzmann equation in the low frequency limit, by deriving the quantum result for free carrier absorption with inelastic scattering from the generalized Boltzmann equation obtained by a density matrix approach. Use of the density matrix results in a generalized Boltzmann equation, which has been shown to reduce to the quasiclassical Boltzmann equation in the limit of elastic scattering and photon energies small compared with characteristic energies of the system. It is shown here that the generalized Boltzmann equation gives the results obtained by a quantum mechanical treatment based on time-dependent perturbation theory, and hence, gives the absorption coefficient, or optical conductivity, over the entire frequency range below the fundamental absorption edge. The rate equation for the photon occupation number, for direct interband and for indirect free carrier absorption, is shown to follow from the equation of motion of the quantum density matrix and use of the generalized Boltzmann equation.
Non‐parametric hedonic housing prices

Abstract The hedonic price function has long been a standard tool for modeling the price of complex commodities, such as housing. The theoretical basis of the model is sound and appealing, but applications often encounter difficulties. The results of hedonic models depend on inclusion of the right independent variables and the correct specification of the functional form. The functional form assumption is particularly difficult in the housing context because the hedonic price function summarizes not only consumer preferences and production technology, but also various quantities which are historically determined, difficult to measure, and not approachable by theory. In this paper, the functional form assumption is relaxed by estimating the hedonic price function as a General Additive Model (GAM). The GAM is considerably more general than conventional hedonic models and offers significant advantages in comprehensibility over other non‐parametric procedures. The model is used to analyze the substantial decl...
Local phosphocycling mediated by LOK/SLK restricts ezrin function to the apical aspect of epithelial cells

In this paper, we describe how a dynamic regulatory process is necessary to restrict microvilli to the apical aspect of polarized epithelial cells. We found that local phosphocycling regulation of ezrin, a critical plasma membrane–cytoskeletal linker of microvilli, was required to restrict its function to the apical membrane. Proteomic approaches and ribonucleic acid interference knockdown identified lymphocyte-oriented kinase (LOK) and SLK as the relevant kinases. Using drug-resistant LOK and SLK variants showed that these kinases were sufficient to restrict ezrin function to the apical domain. Both kinases were enriched in microvilli and locally activated there. Unregulated kinase activity caused ezrin mislocalization toward the basolateral domain, whereas expression of the kinase regulatory regions of LOK or SLK resulted in local inhibition of ezrin phosphorylation by the endogenous kinases. Thus, the domain-specific presence of microvilli is a dynamic process requiring a localized kinase driving the phosphocycling of ezrin to continually bias its function to the apical membrane.
Localization of motoneurons innervating the levator veli palatini muscle in the cat

Recent investigations of the nucleus ambiguus (NA) have attempted to identify motoneurons associated with the branchiomeric muscles of the larynx and pharynx. However, relatively little attention has been directed to the levator veli palatini muscle (LVP) which is critical in respiration, deglutition and eustachian tube function. Although the consensus is that cranial nerve X (vagus) innervates this muscle, some investigators have suggested that the LVP is innervated by either cranial nerve VII (facial) or IX (glossopharyngeal). The present study was designed to identify the specific location of LVP motoneurons within the brainstem. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected into the LVP of 18 cats. Following a survival period of 24-48 hours, animals were sacrificed and tissue processed according to Mesulam's TMB procedure. HRP labeled cells were located in the rostral NA both ipsilateral and contralateral to the side of injection and in the ipsilateral retrofacial nucleus (RFN). There were no labeled cells in the facial nucleus. Innervation of the LVP by cranial nerve VII would thus be excluded. This is the first report to definitively localize LVP motoneurons. Although the innervation of LVP by cranial nerve X is generally agreed upon in basic anatomy textbooks, identification of LVP motoneurons within the NA does not exclude innervation by cranial nerve IX.
Contamination control in semiconductor manufacturing and particle deposition on wafer surfaces

Particulate conthmin4tion is an important problem in semiconductor device inanufactuiing. Very large scale integrated circuit (VLSi) devices such as the current generation of 16 megabit DRAM (dynamic random access memory) have typical device feature sizes on the order ofO.5 pm. Particles as small as 0.05 tm can cause a killer defect to form and the loss of product yield. Contaminant particles can deposit on the wafer surface from the gas or liquid in which they are suspended by the process of diffusion, sedimentation, and electrostatic attraction. In the case of deposition of gas-borne particles (aerosols), additional effects due of thermophoresis or diflutsiophoresis can occur. This paper discusses the fundamental issues in contamination control in semiconductor manufacturing and the mechanisms of particle depositions on wafer surfaces taking into account the different deposition mechanisms. Results of the theoretical calculation sill be compared th the available experimental data.
Metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma

Background. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common malignancy of humans. Although it is axiomatic that this tumor does not evolve into metastatic disease, such events rarely occur, and this possibility should not be overlooked. Objectives. The reader should better understand the sequence of events that resulted in metastatic disease and how these events are emblematic of the rare cases of basal cell carcinoma that systemically spread. Methods. We present a case report of basal cell carcinoma that underwent distant metastasis. A short review of the literature is included. Results. Although basal cell carcinoma is commonly considered a regional tumor with virtually no propensity for distant spread, this case reveals that metastatic disease does occur and with devastating results. Conclusion. Metastatic disease in basal cell carcinoma is a very rare but catastrophic consequence of this very common skin malignancy.
The Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 UL20 Protein Modulates Membrane Fusion Events during Cytoplasmic Virion Morphogenesis and Virus-Induced Cell Fusion

The herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) UL20 protein is an important determinant for virion morphogenesis and virus-induced cell fusion. A precise deletion of the UL20 gene in the HSV-1 KOS strain was constructed without affecting the adjacent UL20.5 gene. The resultant KOS/UL20-null virus produced small plaques of 8 to 15 cells in Vero cells while it produced wild-type plaques on the complementing cell line G5. Electron microscopic examination of infected cells revealed that the KOS/UL20-null virions predominantly accumulated capsids in the cytoplasm while a small percentage of virions were found as enveloped virions within cytoplasmic vacuoles. Recently, it was shown that UL20 expression was necessary and sufficient for cell surface expression of gK (T. P. Foster, X. Alvarez, and K. G. Kousoulas, J. Virol. 77:499-510, 2003). Therefore, we investigated the effect of UL20 on virus-induced cell fusion caused by syncytial mutations in gB and gK by constructing recombinant viruses containing the gBsyn3 or gKsyn1 mutations in a UL20-null genetic background. Both recombinant viruses failed to cause virus-induced cell fusion in Vero cells while they readily caused fusion of UL20-null complementing G5 cells. Ultrastructural examination of UL20-null viruses carrying the gBsyn3 or gKsyn1 mutation revealed a similar distribution of virions as the KOS/UL20-null virus. However, cytoplasmic vacuoles contained aberrant virions having multiple capsids within a single envelope. These multicapsid virions may have been formed either by fusion of viral envelopes or by the concurrent reenvelopment of multiple capsids. These results suggest that the UL20 protein regulates membrane fusion phenomena involved in virion morphogenesis and virus-induced cell fusion.
Planar and non-planar non-linear dynamics of suspended cables under random in-plane loading-I. Single internal resonance

The non-linear interaction of the in-plane and out-of-plane motions of a suspended cable in the neighbourhood of 2:1 internal resonance under random loading is studied. The random loading acts externally on the in-plane mode, while the out-of-plane mode is non-linearly coupled with the in-plane mode. Any non-trivial motion of the out-of-plane mode is mainly due to this non-linear coupling, which becomes significant in the neighbourhood of internal resonance. The response statistics are estimated by employing the Fokker-Planck equation together with Gaussian and non-Gaussian closures. Monte-Carlo simulation is also used for numerical verification. Away from the internal resonance condition, the response is governed by the inplane motion, and the non-Gaussian closure solution is found to be in good agreement with numerical simulation results. The stochastic bifurcation of the out-of-plane mode is predicted by Gaussian and non-Gaussian closures, and by Monte-Carlo simulation. The non-Gaussian closure can only predict bounded solutions within a limited region. The on-off intermittency of the second mode is observed in the Monte-Carlo simulation over a small range of excitation level. The influence on response statistics of excitation level and cable parameters, such as internal detuning, damping ratios, and sag-to-span ratio, is reported.
Estimating Lithospheric Properties at Atla Regio, Venus

Magellan spehrical harmonic gravity and topography models are used to estimate lithospheric properties at Alta Regio, Venus, a proposed hotspot with dynamic support from mantle plume(s). Global spherical harmonic and local representations of the gravity field share common properties in the Atla region interms of their spectral behavior over a wavelength band from approximately 2100 to approximately 700 km. The estimated free-air admittance spectrum displays a rather featureless long-wavelength portion followed by a sharp rise at wavelengths shorter than about 1000 km. This sharp rise requires significant flexural support of short-wavelength structures. The Bouguer coherence also displays a sharp drop in this wavelength band, indicating a finite flexural rigidity of the lithosphere. A simple model for lithospheric loading from above and below is introduced (D. W. Forsyth, 1985) with four parameters: f, the ratio of bottom loading to top loading; z(sub m), crustal thickness; z(sub l) depth to bottom loading source; and T(sub e) elastic lithosphere thickness. A dual-mode compensation model is introduced in which the shorter wavelengths (lambda approximately less than 1000 km) might be explained best by a predominance of top loading by the large shield volcanoes Maat Mons, Ozza Mons, and Sapas Mons, and the longer wavelengths (lambda approximately greater than 1500 km) might be explained best by a deep depth of compensation, possibly representing bottom loading by a dynamic source. A Monte Carlo inversion technique is introduced to thoroughly search out the four-space of the model parameters and to examine parameter correlation in the solutions. Venus either is a considerabe deficient in heat sources relative to Earth, or the thermal lithosphere is overthickened in response to an earlier episode of significant heat loss from the planet.
The analysis of cyclic circuits with Boolean satisfiability

The accepted wisdom is that combinational circuits must have acyclic (i.e., loop-free or feed-forward) topologies. And yet simple examples suggest that this need not be so. In previous work, we advocated the design of cyclic combinational circuits (i.e., circuits with loops or feedback paths). We proposed a synthesis methodology and demonstrated that it produces significant improvements in area and in delay. The analysis method that we used to validate cyclic circuits was based on binary decision diagrams. In this paper, we propose a much more efficient technique for analysis based on Boolean satisfiability (SAT).
K-pulse estimation and target identification of low-Q radar targets

Abstract An approximate K-pulse waveform is synthesized for a perfectly conducting sphere using a theoretically-generated back-scattered impulse response of the target. The complex natural resonance (CNR) frequencies of the sphere are extracted as zeros of the K-pulse spectrum. The synthesized K-pulse is an aspect and polarization independent descriptor of the sphere, and use of this property in radar target identification is demonstrated for several examples. This study is pertinent because of the need to understand the problems encountered in target identification of low-Q radar targets. The next generation of targets will most assuredly appear to be low-Q structures.
Are there models for predicting accelerated atherogenesis in systemic lupus erythematosus

Identification of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus who are at risk of complications related to accelerated atherogenesis is extremely important in order to put in place preventive or therapeutic measures that will greatly improve quality of life and outcomes. The severity of accelerated atherogenesis is worsened by corticosteroids, but this complication might also occur in the absence of steroid therapy. In order to identify patients at risk of accelerated atherogenesis, Karp et al. have proposed a statistical model, based on Framingham data, steroid dosing, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores and predicted events related to coronary artery disease. This commentary critically reviews this model.
The determination of bone fracture properties by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and single-photon absorptiometry: a comparative study.

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and single-photon absorptiometry (SPA) were used to quantitate the structural strength and local material properties of healing tibial osteotomies in 32 dogs. Dogs were divided into four equal groups, euthanatized at either 2, 4, 8, or 12 weeks, and imaged with DEXA and SPA. Invasive techniques were used to determine (1) the torsional properties of the bone, (2) the local stiffness properties and calcium content within the bone, and (3) new bone formation and porosity by histology. There were no differences between SPA and DEXA in their associations with the torsional properties of bone. SPA and DEXA had strong correlations with the ultimate torque (R2=0.76, 0.51) and the torsional stiffness (R2=0.68, 0.53) of bone. SPA and DEXA of periosteal callus, endosteal callus, and cortical bone had similar associations with indentation stiffness, calcium content, new bone formation, and porosity. SPA of gap tissue had significantly stronger associations with these four parameters than DEXA (P<0.05). Correlation coefficients (R2) with these local material properties ranged as high as 0.82 for SPA with new bone formation in the gap tissue and 0.73 for DEXA with indentation stiffness of periosteal callus.