cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of ankle-foot orthoses on ankle and foot kinematics in patients with subtalar osteoarthritis.

Abstract Huang Y-C, Harbst K, Kotajarvi B, Hansen D, Koff MF, Kitaoka HB, Kaufman KR. Effects of ankle-foot orthoses on ankle and foot kinematics in patients with subtalar osteoarthritis. Objective To determine whether different foot orthoses have a similar effect on foot kinematics in subjects with subtalar osteoarthritis (OA) when walking on various ground conditions. Design Within-subject comparison study. Setting Biomechanics research laboratory. Participants Ten subjects with unilateral subtalar OA. Interventions Custom-made ankle foot orthosis (AFO), rigid hindfoot orthosis (HFO-R), and articulated hindfoot orthosis (HFO-A) were used by subjects walking on level, ascending, and descending ramp, and side slope conditions. Main Outcome Measures The triplanar range of motion of the calcaneus relative to tibia (hindfoot) and metatarsal relative to calcaneus (forefoot) was measured using an 8-camera motion analysis system when subjects with subtalar OA wore different foot orthoses. Results Braces tended to perform similarly in reducing motion of the forefoot and hindfoot for all ground conditions when compared with unbraced but wearing shoes. The AFO significantly restricted frontal plane hindfoot motion during ramp descent ( P P =.02). The HFO-A provided significant frontal plane hindfoot motion restriction during ramp descent ( P P =.03). The HFO-R significantly restricted frontal plane hindfoot motion in all ground conditions except ramp ascent ( P Conclusions The HFO-R provides significant subtalar joint motion restriction while walking. The HFO-R may be considered an optimal orthosis for patients with subtalar OA pain arising from subtalar motion.
Increase in CD4 Lymphocyte Counts After Splenectomy in HIV-infected Patients

The records were reviewed of five human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1-infected patients who underwent splenectomy, four for HIV-associated thrombocytopenia and one for gastric compression secondary to splenomegaly. After splenectomy, the four adult patients all had marked, sustained increases in their absolute CD4 lymphocyte counts; greater increases were observed in CD8 lymphocyte counts, accounting for decreases in the CD4:CD8 ratios. In patients 5 (one of triplets, all of whom were infected with HIV after a blood transfusion), absolute CD4 lymphocyte counts were stabilized after splenectomy; the other siblings manifested a decline in CD4 counts, which was associated with a delay in physical development and recurrent episodes of varicella. Immunohistochemical staining of spleen sections demonstrated significantly higher numbers of CD4 cells in splenic tissue from HIV-infected patients than from patients splenectomized secondary to trauma (2,070 +/- 284 vs. 962 +/- 296; p = 0.025). In addition, the HIV-infected patients had significantly higher percentages of CD4 lymphocytes in splenic tissue than in peripheral blood (49.3 +/- 11.0 vs. 20.3 +/- 7.9; p = 0.005), suggesting that CD4 cells were sequestered in the spleens of these patients. These findings have implications for the management of splenectomized HIV-infected patients with regard to optimal timing of initiation of zidovudine therapy and for prophylaxis of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.
Evidence-based practice in cardiovascular nursing: reducing risk through behavioral interventions

Conferencia proferida pela Dra Deborah Chyun, da Universidade de Nova Iorque, Estados Unidos da America, com o titulo: “Pratica baseada em evidencias em enfermagem cardiovascular: reduzindo riscos atraves de intervencoes comportamentais”. A conferencia, realizada na Escola de Enfermagem Aurora de Afonso Costa, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ, Brasil, em 24 de maio de 2013, teve duracao de duas horas, seguida de debate com a plateia por mais trinta minutos.
Dropping out of high school: Effects of close and distant friendships

Prior research highlights the role of friends in influencing whether a student completes high school. Students who drop out tend to have fewer friends, as well as friends who are less oriented toward school success. We distinguish between close and distant friendships by developing a theoretical framework which predicts close and distant friends likely have distinct effects on dropping out. Close friendships provide valuable emotional support, and forging numerous close friendships at school should decrease one's risk of dropping out. In contrast, the characteristics of distant friends help shape students' social identities and beliefs about "what's normative." Our analyses of the Add Health data set confirm our expectations. Students with more close friendships are less likely to drop out, but close friends' characteristics are unrelated to dropping out. Distant relationships (as measured by affect and regularity of interaction) with friends who have a high risk of dropping out significantly increase a student's own risk of dropping out.
Assets, aggregates and optimal monetary control

Abstract This paper develops optimal monetary stabilization rules employing information pertaining to an arbitrary number of financial assets, together with the interest rate. The rules are expressed in terms of an optimal weighted aggregate to be stabilized, with the optimal weights depending upon the variances and covariances of the underlying stochastic disturbances. A generalized Poole-type combination policy is also derived. Properties of the optimal rules are discussed analytically in specific cases. This is supplemented by numerical simulation methods using parameter values based on a disaggregation of the U.S. financial sector into 14 components.
Estimates of Yield and Economic Losses Associated with White Mold of Rain-Fed Dry Bean in North Dakota

White mold [caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary] of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most important disease affecting rain-fed dry bean yields in North Dakota. The economic impact of this disease in North Dakota was assessed through a survey of 250 fields during 2003 to 2005. Profitability of a single fungicide application for managing white mold also was examined. Yield loss was estimated by regressing the mean of white mold incidence per county and year with their respective estimated yields. The slope of the resulting equation was divided by its intercept and multiplied by 100 to express yield loss as percentage of potential yield. Results of these analyses indicated a loss of 14 kg/ha (R 2 0.50; P = 0.03) for every unit of white mold incidence, which represents a loss of 0.8% of the potential yield. The economic impact of the disease was assessed using estimated hectarage with ≥20% white mold incidence in conjunction with yield and dry bean prices as reported by National Agricultural Statistics Service for North Dakota. Over the 3-yr period, economic losses were highest in 2004 and least in 2005; yield loss averaged 524 kg/ha (range 424-722 kg/ha) while production loss averaged 6433 t (range 1,789-10,438 t). These represent an average economic loss of U.S. $2.95 million (range U.S. $0.63-5.74 million) per year. Profitability of a fungicide application to manage white mold was heavily influenced by disease pressure and varied widely between years. In years with high disease pressure, like 2004, a fungicide application would have produced a positive return in 72% of the fields; but under moderate to low disease-pressure, applying fungicides would have been a profitable practice in <20% of fields.
Imaging And Nondispersive Spectroscopy Of Soft X Rays Using A Laboratory X-Ray Charge-Coupled-Device System

This paper describes the design and performance of a laboratory instrument for imaging and nondispersive spectroscopy of soft X-rays (300 eV to 10 keV) utilizing a virtual-phase CCD. This instrument has achieved a spatial resolution of 22 microns (limited by pixel size) with an overall array area of 584 x 390 pixels. It has achieved an energy resolution of about 140 eV FWHM for single-pixel Fe-55 X-ray events (5.9 keV) with the CCD operated at -30 C. The CCD has been operated in photon-counting mode at room temperature, and X-ray spectra with an energy resolution of about 450 eV at 5.9 keV have been obtained. The low energy X-ray sensitivity of the CCD also has been demonstrated by detecting carbon K-alpha X-rays (277eV).
A COMPARISON OF METHODS FOR THE INACTIVATION OF THIRD COMPONENT OF GUINEA-PIG COMPLEMENT.

Sono stati esaminati comparativamente tre reagenti per la titolazione di C′3, rispettivamente allestiti con siero di cavia inattivato con zymosan, formalina e «Liquoid». Le differenze esistenti tra essi sono state analizzate e discusse in base alle attuali conoscenze sulla natura del terzo componente complementare.
Clinical Utility of PET-FDG Imaging in Differentiation of Benign from Malignant Adrenal Masses in Lung Cancer

This study was designed to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive accuracy of PET-FDG imaging in detecting metastatic disease involvement of adrenal glands in patients with lung cancer. We wanted to compare efficacy of positron emission tomography (PET)-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) imaging to computed tomography (CT) scanning in differentiating benign from malignant involvement of adrenal glands in patients with lung cancer. Thirty patients with biopsy-proven lung cancer and abnormal findings on PET and/or CT scanning were studied for presence of adrenal abnormality suggestive of metastatic disease involvement (n = 26) or benign adrenal enlargement (n = 4). The results of PET and CT scanning were compared to histological findings and/or clinical follow-up for at least 1 year for presence or absence of adrenal metastases. PET-FDG imaging correctly detected the presence of metastatic involvement in 17 of 18 patients and excluded metastatic involvement in 11 of 12 patients for sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 94.4%, 91.6%, and 93.3%, respectively. CT scanning showed enlarged adrenals without metastases in 8 of 30 patients and normal-sized adrenals in the presence of metastases in 5 of 30 patients. There was a false-positive PET finding in 1 patient and a false-negative PET finding in another patient. PET-FDG imaging is a highly sensitive, specific, and accurate test to differentiate benign from malignant involvement of adrenal glands in patients with lung cancer and often ambiguous findings on CT scanning.
Plasmonic-enhanced infrared photoexpansion nano-spectroscopy using tunable quantum cascade lasers

Mid-IR photoexpansion nano-spectroscopy measures spectra of samples on nanoscale by detecting local thermal expansion associated with light absorption using a standard atomic force microscope (AFM). Cantilever deflection is directly proportional to sample absorption. This method results in a simple experimental setup with no optical detectors. We have recently demonstrated that the sensitivity of photoexpansion nano-spectroscopy can be dramatically enhanced by moving the laser pulses repetition frequency in resonance with the mechanical frequency of the AFM cantilever. We were able to produce spectra from ~100 nm thin films using low energy (4 nJ) pulses from a tunable quantum cascade laser (QCL). The spatial resolution, which is determined by thermal diffusion length, has been demonstrated to be better than 50 nm. Sample heating is limited to ~10 mK. Here we present a novel approach to increase both the sensitivity and spatial resolution of photoexpansion nano-spectroscopy. We utilize the plasmonic local-intensity enhancement below a gold-coated AFM tip. We successfully produced high quality vibrational absorption spectra from samples as thin as 10 nm positioned on top of gold-coated silicon substrates. In addition to higher photoexpansion signal, our technique features higher spatial resolution, which is no longer limited by thermal diffusion length but is instead determined by the dimensions of the high-intensity field region below the metal tip, which can be 10 nm or smaller.
Common themes and differences in SAM recognition among SAM riboswitches.

Abstract The recent discovery of short cis -acting RNA elements termed riboswitches has caused a paradigm shift in our understanding of genetic regulatory mechanisms. The three distinct superfamilies of S-adenosyl- l -methionine (SAM) riboswitches are the most commonly found riboswitch classes in nature. These RNAs represent three independent evolutionary solutions to achieve specific SAM recognition. This review summarizes research on 1) modes of gene regulatory mechanisms, 2) common themes and differences in ligand recognition, and 3) ligand-induced conformational dynamics among SAM riboswitch families. The body of work on the SAM riboswitch families constitutes a useful primer to the topic of gene regulatory RNAs as a whole. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Riboswitches.
Mechanical property evaluation of pressable restorative ceramics.

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the flexure strength under static and cyclic loading and the fracture toughness under static loading of six restorative ceramic materials. Specifically the intent was to compare four leucite (K 2 O·Al 2 O 3 ·4SiO 2 ) strengthened feldspathic (pressable) porcelains (OA, OI, E, and FP) to a low fusing feldspathic porcelain (F) and an experimental (EC) lithium disilicate containing ceramic. Methods: All materials were tested as a control in air and distilled water (without aging) and after three months aging in air or distilled water to determine flexure strength and fracture toughness. A staircase approach was used to determine the cyclic flexure strength. EDS and SEM analysis were conducted on the polished and fracture surfaces. Results: The mean flexure strength for the controls in air and water (without aging or cyclic loading) ranged from 67 to 99 MPa, except the experimental ceramic that was twice as strong with a mean flexure strength of 191–205 MPa. For the mean fracture toughness, the range was 1.1–1.9 MPa/m 0.5 with the experimental ceramic being 2.7 MPa/m 0.5 . The effect of testing in water and aging for three months caused a moderate reduction in the mean flexure strength (6–17%), and a moderate to severe reduction in the mean fracture toughness (5–39%). The largest decrease (15–60%) in mean flexure strength was observed when the samples were subjected to cyclic loading. Significance: The lithium disilicate containing ceramic had a significantly higher flexure strength and fracture toughness when compared to the four pressable leucite strengthened ceramics and the low fusing conventional porcelain. All of the leucite containing pressable ceramics did provide an increase in mean flexure strength (17–19%) and mean fracture toughness (3–64%) over the conventional feldspathic porcelain. Further, the influence of testing environment and loading conditions implies that these ceramic materials in the oral cavity might be susceptible to cyclic fatigue, resulting in a significant decrease in the survival time of all-ceramic restorations.
Issues in the natural history and treatment of coronary heart disease in black populations: Medical management

Data from multiple sources indicate that the death rate for blacks is higher than for the general population-in part because of higher mortality from cardiovascular causes. The Cardiovascular Mortality Survey, carried out in Los Angeles, indicates that the combined effects of increased mortality from high blood pressure and related causes (e.g. stroke, cerebrovascular disease), together with an ischemic heart disease mortality rate that is only a little below the mean, accounts for the overall excess mortality rates in blacks. In addition, black patients have been shown to have higher risk profiles compared with the study mean in a large study of beta-blocker therapy, and a definite treatment effect was demonstrated. Further prospective studies of natural history and response to therapy are indicated for appropriately selected patient groups.
Tryptophan sidechain dynamics in hydrophobic oligopeptides determined by use of 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Two oligopeptides, t-boc-LAWAL-OMe and t-boc-LALALW-OMe, were synthesized for the purpose of examining the sidechain dynamics of the tryptophan residue in hydrophobic environments by 13C nuclear magnetic resonance and fluorescence spectroscopy. In both peptides, the tryptophan sidechain was greater than 95% enriched with 13C at the C delta 1 position. Spin-lattice relaxation time (T1) and steady-state nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE) data were obtained at 50.3 and 75.4 MHz for both peptides in CD3OD, and at 75.4 MHz for t-boc-LALALW-OMe in lysolecithin-D2O micelles. We have adapted the model-free approach of G. Lipari and A. Szabo (1982, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 104:4546) to interpret the 13C-NMR data. Computer-generated curves based on experimental data obtained at a single frequency demonstrate relationships between an effective correlation time for tryptophan sidechain motion (tau e), a generalized order parameter (sigma) describing the extent of motional restriction, and an overall correlation time for the peptide (tau m). Assuming predominantly dipolar relaxation, least-squares fits of the dual frequency relaxation data provide values for these parameters for both peptides. The contribution of chemical shift anisotropy (CSA), however, is also explicitly assessed in the data analysis, and is shown to perturb the predicted sigma, tau e, and tau m values and to decrease chi(2) values observed in nonlinear least-squares analysis of the data. Because of uncertainty in the contribution of CSA to the relaxation of the indole ring 13C delta 1 atom, nonlinear least-squares analysis of the relaxation data were performed with and without inclusion of a CSA term in the appropriate relaxation equations. Neglecting CSA, an overall peptide correlation time of 0.69 ns is predicted for t-boc-LAWAL-OMe in CD3OD at 20 degrees C compared with 1.28 ns for t-boc-LALALW-OMe. Given these tau m values and taking into account the effect of measurement error in the T1 and NOE data, the internal dynamics of the tryptophan residue of t-boc-LAWAL-OMe in this isotropic environment are described by a range of tau e values from 70 to 112 ps and sigma values between 0.22 and 0.36. Similarly, for t-boc-LALALW-OMe, 68 less than or equal to tau e less than or equal to 93 ps and 0.09 less than or equal to sigma less than or equal to 0.17. The Ch-terminal position of the tryptophan residue in the hexapeptide may account for its lower order parameter.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Effect of Variations in Fat and Temperature on the Surface Tension of Various Milks

Summary Measurements of the surface tension of skimmilk, whole milk, and homogenized milk were made at 60, 81, and 102° F. with a du Nouy tensiometer, to obtain data for use in the calibration of lactometers. The results are presented graphically. A consistent difference was apparent between the surface tensions of the three milks, with an increasing divergence occurring with a rise in temperature. The difference between the surface tension of skimmilk and whole milk was about 50% greater at 102 than at 60° F. The surface tension of homogenized milk was intermediate to that of skimmilk and whole milk. The change in the surface tension with temperature for all milks was most marked between 60 and 80° F. The surface tension of whole milk was not affected significantly by fat in excess of about 4%.
Continuous central venous oximetry and shock index in the emergency department: use in the evaluation of clinical shock.

Initial therapy of shock in the emergency department (ED) emphasizes the normalization of physiologic variables such as heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and central venous pressure (CVP) rather than restoration of adequate tissue oxygenation. After hemodynamic stabilization of MAP, CVP, and HR, the authors examined tissue oxygenation as indicated by continuous central venous oximetry (SCVO2), lactic acid concentration, and shock index (SI). Sixteen consecutive nonrandomized patients presenting to the ED of a large urban hospital in shock (MAP 120 beats/min, and altered sensorium) were initially resuscitated with fluid, blood, inotropes, and/or vasoactive drug therapy to normalize MAP, CVP, and HR. In addition, SCVO2, arterial lactate concentration, and SI were measured after completion of resuscitation in the ED. Eight patients (group no. 1) had inadequate tissue oxygenation reflected by low SCVO2 (less than 65%). Four patients in group no. 1 had elevated arterial lactic acid concentration. All group no. 1 patients had an elevated SI (> 0.7) suggesting persistent impairment of left ventricular stroke work. Eight patients (group no. 2) had normal or elevated SCVO2 (> 65%). In group no. 2, arterial lactic acid concentration was elevated in six and SI in seven patients. Normalization of hemodynamic variables does not adequately reflect the optimal endpoint of initial therapy in shock in the ED. Most (94%) of these patients continue to have significant global ischemia and cardiac dysfunction as indicated by reduced SCVO2 and elevated lactic acid concentration and SI. Systemic tissue oxygenation should be monitored and optimized in the ED in these critically ill patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
How Important Are Quantum Mechanical Nuclear Motions in Enzyme Catalysis

The role of quantum mechanical nuclear motions in enzymatic reactions is examined by realistic simulations that take into account the fluctuations of an entire enzyme−substrate complex. This is done by using the quantized classical path (QCP) approach which is based on Feynman's path integral formulation. The calculations evaluate the quantum mechanical activation free energy and deuterium isotope effect for the proton transfer step in the catalytic reaction of carbonic anhydrase. The calculated and observed isotope effects are in very good agreement, thus demonstrating the potential of our approach in extracting mechanistic information. Furthermore, the value of the calculated quantum mechanical rate constant is in a good agreement with the corresponding observed value. This is significant since the evaluation of the ratio between the quantum mechanical rate constants of the reaction in the protein and in aqueous solution does not involve any adjustable parameter. The reliability of our calculations is b...
Outcome After Steroid Withdrawal in Renal Transplant Patients Receiving Tacrolimus-Based Immunosuppression

Among the advantages of tacrolimus (Prograf FK506)-based immunosuppression in renal transplant patients has been the ability to withdraw steroids completely in the majority of successfully transplanted recipients. 1–4 The percentage of patients in whom steroids have been discontinued has varied with the length of follow-up, but has been as high as 70% or more.2,3 An important question, however, concerns the outcome in these patients, and to date, this issue has not been formally investigated. We looked at a large population of wellstudied patients entered into a prospective, randomized trial of two tacrolimus-based regimens, with and without azathioprine, to answer questions about the short- and medium-term safety of steroid withdrawal.
Effect of gamma irradiation on embryogenic avocado cultures and somatic embryo development

Embryogenic avocado cultures were exposed to ionizing irradiation in order to determine its effect on proliferation and subsequent somatic embryo development. The approximate PD50 as determined by linear regression is 35 Gy 2 weeks after irradiation for ‘Fuerte’ 2.11.1 and 4 weeks after irradiation for ‘T362’ 2.11.1. Irradiation of embryogenic cultures did not significantly affect the number of early stage ‘Fuerte’ 2.11.1 somatic embryos that developed directly from irradiated cultures; however, 10–50 Gy inhibited somatic embryo development. Irradiation of ‘T362’ 2.11.1 embryogenic cultures at 25–50 Gy inhibited the number of intermediate and mature stages of somatic embryos that developed directly from irradiated cultures, and 50 Gy inhibited somatic embryo maturation. Inhibition of somatic embryo development could be partially offset by proliferation of irradiated embryogenic cultures as suspensions. Irradiation up to 10 Gy significantly increased the number of mature ‘Fuerte’ 2.11.1 somatic embryos that developed from suspension cultures. Irradiation with doses up to 25 Gy stimulated development of heart stage ‘T362’ 2.11.1 somatic embryos; however, mature somatic embryo development was suppressed at dosages of 10 Gy and greater.
Perception of exercise difficulty predicts weight regain in formerly overweight women.

It has been previously reported that overweight and obese individuals perceive exercise as more difficult than their lean counterparts, and this difference may not be solely attributed to physiological differences. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that individual differences in the perception of exercise difficulty during exercise, independent of concurrently measured physiological markers of exertion, are predictive of weight regain, after completion of a weight loss program. A total of 113 formerly overweight women who had previously completed a weight-loss program to achieve a normal body weight (BMI <25 kg/m2) underwent a submaximal aerobic exercise task while measures of physiological and perceived exertion (rating of perceived exertion (RPE)) were recorded. Weight gain was assessed following a subsequent 1-year free-living period. Average weight regain 1 year following the intervention was 5.46 ± 3.95 kg. In regression modeling, RPE (β = 0.21, P = 0.01), but not physiological exertion (β = 0.02, P = 0.81), during the submaximal exercise task was positively associated with 1-year weight regain following weight loss in premenopausal women, independent of measured confounding variables. The association between RPE and weight regain suggests that perception of exercise difficulty is an important predictor of weight regain following a weight-loss intervention.
The role of intuition in family research: Three issues of ethics

The thesis of this chapter is that, unless one has had brain-surgery, a stroke, or has some organic deficiency, we are all whole-brained people, therapists and researchers alike. To elaborate on this point, this article is focused on the role of intuition in family research. Ethical issues in family research are viewed as similar to those in symbolic experiential family therapy. Three ethical issues, counter-transference, mutual benefit, and discovery, are discussed.
Resticted Growth of Human Cytomegalovirus in UV-lrradiated WI-38 Human Fibroblasts

SummaryThe growth of human CMV was inhibited by uv irradiation of cells prior to infection or during the 48-hr latent period of virus replication but not after virus synthesis began. The duration of uv exposure sufficient to inhibit CMV replication was insufficient to inhibit replication of Herpes simplex and did not prevent un-infected cells from dividing normally. The effect of uv irradiation on CMV replication may have been mediated through prevention of the stimulating effect of the virus on host cell RNA(s) synthesis.
EFFECTS OF 2,5‐DIBROMO‐3‐METHYL‐6‐ISOPROPYL BENZOQUINONE (DBMIB) ON PHOTOCHEMICAL EVENTS IN RHODOSPIRILLUM RUBRUM*

. The quinone antagonist dibromothymoquinone (2,5-dibromo-3-methyl-6-isopropyl benzoquinone, DBMIB)‡ was used to inhibit early photochemical changes in chromatophores of the photo-synthetic bacterium, Rhodospirillum rubrum. With continuous illumination with near infrared light, we observed an approximately threefold decrease in efficiency of P865+ formation at 100–200 μM DBMIB as measured by absorbance changes at 605 or 430 nm. However, with continuous illumination of several seconds duration, maximal absorbance changes were observed. At low concentrations (1–10 μM) of DBMIB, a decrease in the decay rate of the ΔA430 or ΔA605 was observed. Using a short (2–10 μs), low intensity light pulse for excitation, we observed that DBMIB inhibits P865+ formation. The concentration dependency of this inhibition corresponds to that seen with continuous illumination. We tested the possibility that DBMIB was displacing the first stable electron acceptor, which has been shown to be a tightly bound ubiquinone (UQ) in R. rubrum. Chromatophores prepared from cells grown with 14C-p-hydroxybenzoic acid in their media provided a sample in which the benzoquinones were labelled specifically with 14C. These labelled chromatophores were first extracted with petroleum ether to remove the loosely bound ubiquinone pool and then were treated with DBMIB. DBMIB displaced about 1/2 of the remaining tightly-bound UQ present. The DBMIB inhibition was tested for reversibility by adding an excess of UQ to DBMIB-treated samples. In these cases, restoration to 80% could be achieved from samples which were only 20% active relative to the untreated samples. A similar inhibitory effect by DBMIB was also demonstrated in whole cells of Rhodospirillum rubrum, the G-9 mutant of Rhodospirillum rubrum, Rhodopseudomoms sphaeroides, Rhodopseudomonas capsulata, and Chromatium vinosum. The mechanism for inhibition is most consistent with displacement of, or interference with the first stable electron acceptor (ubiquinone) rather than by random quenching of excited states at the level of antenna bacteriochlorophyll.
Baseline Differences in Social Support Among Treatment-Seeking Alcoholics With and Without Social Phobia.

Differences on demographics and seven measures of social support between matched, treatment-seeking alcoholics with and without social phobia (SP and NSP groups, respectively) were examined. The groups did not differ on most demographic variables, although the SP group (n = 397) had a lower occupational status and had fewer years of education (both p's < .01) than the NSP group (n = 397). On social support measures, the SP group had less perceived social support from friends and had a lower performance on the social behavior role scale than the NSP group (both p's < .001). The two groups were unexpectedly more similar than different on the measures of interest in this study; however, the differences identified are meaningful for treatment planning. It is important to ascertain the quantity and sources of social support which are available to these clients in order to maximize positive treatment outcomes.
The 154Eu(t, p) reaction: Some new systematics in the N = 90 spherical-deformed transition region

A radioactive target of 154Eu(8.3y) has been used to study the 154Eu(t, p)156Eu reaction at an incident energy of 17 MeV. The bandhead and one rotational state of the {;π52[413]; ν112[505]}K = 3− configuration have been identified in 156Eu. The excitation energy of the 3− bandhead is determined to be 448 ± 15 keV. The angular distribution of the first excited rotational state is anamolous and may indicate evidence for a strong two-step component in the reaction mechanism. The energy systematics of the Eu-Sm transition region are also investigated. We find that the systematics of h22I suggest that at N = 87 the 150Eu {π52[413]; ν112[505]}K = 3− excited configurations has a significantly more stable deformed structure than the corresponding 112[505] one-quasiparticle structure in 149Sm.
Projecting consumptions of competing products

Abstract In this article a practical methodology is proposed to enable the planner to project the consumption levels of competing products. The author argues that the method is best suited for the determination of long-run consumption trends of such products. It is less effective for the forecasting of short-run consumption of products in dynamic markets. The discussion will be particularly pertinent to companies considering production investment with long lead times to commissioning the plant in question.
CHARGE LOSS BETWEEN CONTACTS OF CDZNTE PIXEL DETECTORS

The surface of Cd_(1−x)Zn_xTe (CZT) material has high resistivity but is not a perfect dielectric. Even a small surface conductivity can affect the electric field distribution, and therefore, the charge collection efficiency of a CZT pixel detector. The paper describes studies of this phenomenon for several contact configurations made on a single CZT detector. We have determined the maximum inter-contact separation at which the surface inter-pixel charge loss can be neglected.
Senita cactus alkaloids: Their significance to Sonoran Desert Drosophila ecology

Abstract The toxicity of senita cactus (Lophocereus schotti), and the alkaloids derived from it, pilocereine (I) and lophocereine (II), have been tested against Drosophila pachea and eight other species of Drosophila of the Sonoran Desert. The cactus and pilocereine kill the adults and/or progeny of all species but D. pachea. The alkaloid is probably the main reason why no other species than D. pachea breeds in the rotting stems of senita cactus.
Skill of synthetic superensemble hurricane forecasts for the Canadian maritime provinces

From 1994 to 2003, fifty-five tropical cyclones entered the Canadian Hurricane Centre (CHC) Response Zone, or about 42% of all named Atlantic tropical cyclones in this ten-year period, and 2003 was the fourth consecutive year for a tropical cyclone to make landfall in Canada. The CHC forecasts all tropical cyclones that enter the CHC Response Zone and assumes the lead in forecasting once the cyclone enters its area of forecast responsibility. This study acknowledges the challenges of forecasting such tropical cyclones at extratropical latitudes. If a tropical cyclone has been declared extratropical, global models may no longer use vortex bogussing to carry the cyclone, and even if it is modeled, large model errors often result. The purpose of this study is to develop a new version of the Florida State University (FSU) hurricane superensemble with greater skill in tracking tropical cyclones, especially at extratropical latitudes. This has been achieved from the development of the synthetic superensemble, which is similar to the operational version of the multi-model superensemble that is used at FSU. The synthetic superensemble differs in that is has a larger set of member models consisting of regular member models, synthetic versions of these models, and the operational superensemble and its synthetic version. This synthetic superensemble is being used here to forecast hurricane tracks from the 2001, 2002, and 2003 hurricane seasons. The track forecasts from this method have generally less error than those of the member models, the operational superensemble, and the ensemble mean. This study shows that the synthetic superensemble performs consistently well and would be an asset to operational hurricane track forecasting.
Allergens induce enhanced bronchoconstriction and leukotriene production in C5 deficient mice

Background Previous genetic analysis has shown that a deletion in the complement component 5 gene-coding region renders mice more susceptible to allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) due to reduced IL-12 production. We investigated the role of complement in a murine model of asthma-like pulmonary inflammation.
Retained peritoneal shunt tubing causing hematuria. Case illustration.

This 14-year-old boy with congenital hydrocephalus underwent initial shunt placement shortly after birth. During his first 6 years of life, multiple ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt revisions were performed to address seven shunt malfunctions and one shunt infection (Staphylococcus epidermidis). During the last shunt revision, which took place 8 years before the current presentation, it was noted that the distal peritoneal shunt tubing (Peritoneal Catheter, Standard, Barium Impregnated; Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, MN) had fractured and was coiled in the pelvis. Nevertheless, the tubing was not retrieved at that time. When the boy was 11 years old, he began noticing intermittent hematuria. Ultrasonography revealed a large bladder mass, and during cystoscopy we observed that the shunt tubing was coiled within the bladder wall (Fig. 1). The procedure was converted to an exploratory laparotomy. The functioning VP shunt was found to lie within the peritoneum, and the shunt tubing that had been retained for 8 years was observed to have perforated the dome of the bladder wall multiple times. The portion of the bladder containing the tubing was excised (Fig. 2) and the bladder was oversewn. The working shunt tubing was left in the peritoneal cavity without incident. Late bladder perforation by VP shunt tubing has been previously reported. This tubing has protruded from the urethra, been associated with bladder stones, and been observed during bladder augmentation procedures. 1‐5 The present case was discovered during a workup for hematuria after an abdominal shunt tube had been retained for longer than 8 years. Interestingly, the retained shunt tube had repeatedly perforated the bladder, which may account for the patient’s intermittent hematuria.
Nonlinear autoregressive and nonlinear autoregressive moving average model parameter estimation by minimizing hypersurface distance

The least squares (LS) can be used for nonlinear autoregressive (NAR) and nonlinear autoregressive moving average (NARMA) parameter estimation. However, for nonlinear cases, the LS results in biased parameter estimation due to its assumption that the independent variables are noise free. The total least squares (TLS) is another method that can used for nonlinear parameter estimation to increase the accuracy of the LS because it specifically accounts for the fact that the independent variables are noise corrupted. TLS has its own limitations, however, mainly because it is difficult for the method to isolate noise from the signal components. We present a new method that is based on minimization of hypersurface distance for accurate parameter estimation for NAR and NARMA models. Computer simulation examples show that the new method results in far more accurate NAR and NARMA model parameter estimates than do either the LS and TLS, with noise that is either white or colored, and retains its high accuracy even when the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is as low as 10 dB.
Problems of Definition in Sampling Special Populations: The Case of Homeless Persons:

Articles should deal with topics applicable to the broad field of program evaluation. Implications for practicing evaluators should be clearly identified. Examples of contributions include, but are not limited to, reviews of new developments in evaluation and descriptions of a current evaluation effort, research problem, or technique. Manuscripts should include appropriate references and not exceed 10 double-spaced typewritten pages in length.
The total variance of a periodogram-based spectral estimate of a stochastic process with spectral uncertainty and its application to classifier design

The variance of a spectral estimate of a stochastic process is essential to the formulation and performance of a spectral classifier. The overall variance of a spectral estimate originates from two sources: the within-class spectral uncertainty and the variance introduced in the spectral estimation procedure. In this paper, we derive the total variance of a periodogram-based spectral estimate under some assumptions. Using this result, we formulate a linear spectral classifier based on Fisher's separability metric. The classifier is used to classify two oceanographic processes: ocean convection versus internal waves.
Dynamics and control of a deformable gyrostat, utilizing continuum vehicle modes

The paper deals with dynamics of a specific gyroscopic flexible spacecraft and with synthesis of its controller. The infinite number of associated gyroscopic modes are shown to have alternately a precession parallel and antiparallel to the stored momentum. Dependence of mode shapes on the rotor's momentum is investigated. Identities based on the vehicle's momentum and inertia considerations are devised. The stochastic response analysis of the spacecraft subject to arbitrary excitation permits a "modal cost analysis" of the vehicle. These developments show that, as rotor's momentum escalates, a larger number of modes are required to construct a truncated model having a prespecified accuracy. A controller is designed on the basis of the "minimum error excitation" approach, which is found to be almost as effective as an optimal state feedback controller. The destabilizing influence of the truncated modes is exposed by utilizing the robustness inequalities available in the literature.
Pathway-Specific Synaptic Plasticity: Activity-Dependent Enhancement and Suppression of Long-Term Heterosynaptic Facilitation at Converging Inputs on a Single Target

To explore mechanisms of long-term, pathway-specific synaptic plasticity, we examined consequences of differential stimulation of Aplysia sensorimotor connections in culture where two sensory neuron (SN) inputs converge on a single target motor cell L7. A single pairing of tetanus in one SN with bath application of 5-HT evoked long-term (24 hr) increase in efficacy of the SN connection given paired stimulation that was comparable in magnitude to the increase in synaptic efficacy evoked with repeated applications of 5-HT. Repeated pairing of tetanus in one SN with applications of 5-HT evoked a significant increase in efficacy of the SN connection given paired stimuli, and significant reduction in facilitation that is normally evoked by repeated applications of 5-HT in the unpaired SN connection. Hyperpolarization of L7 or incubation with APV interfered with both enhancement of facilitation with paired stimulation and suppression of facilitation with unpaired stimulation, but without interfering with long-term facilitation evoked either by repeated applications of 5-HT or by a single pairing. The results suggest that a single connection can undergo at least two forms of activity-dependent, pathway-specific facilitation lasting more than 24 hr. One form, evoked with a single pairing, is initiated and maintained primarily by activity in the presynaptic neuron. The other form, evoked with repeated paired stimuli, requires target-dependent activity that differentially modulates long-term heterosynaptic facilitation at the converging inputs.
Flow cytometric analysis of crayfish haemocytes activated by lipopolysaccharides

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from Gram-negative bacteria are strong stimulators of white river crayfish, Procambarus zonangulus, haemocytes in vitro. Following haemocyte treatment with LPS and with LPS from rough mutant R5 (LPS Rc) from Salmonella minnesota, flow cytometric analysis revealed a conspicuous and reproducible decrease in cell size as compared to control haemocytes. These LPS molecules also caused a reduction in haemocyte viability as assessed by flow cytometry with the fluorescent dyes calcein-AM and ethidium homodimer. The onset of cell size reduction was gradual and occurred prior to cell death. Haemocytes treated with LPS from S. minnesota without the Lipid A moiety (detoxified LPS) decreased in size without a reduction of viability. The action of LPS on crayfish haemocytes appeared to be related to the activation of the prophenoloxidase system because phenoloxidase (PO)-specific activity in the supernatants from control and detoxified LPS-treated cells was significantly lower than that from LPS and LPS-Rc treated cells (P</=0.05). Furthermore, addition of trypsin inhibitor to the LPS treatments caused noticeable delays in cell size and viability changes. These patterns of cellular activation by LPS formulations indicated that crayfish haemocytes react differently to the polysaccharide and lipid A moieties of LPS, where lipid A is cytotoxic and the polysaccharide portion is stimulatory. These effects concur with the general pattern of mammalian cell activation by LPS, thereby indicating common innate immune recognition mechanisms to bacterial antigens between cells from mammals and invertebrates. These definitive molecular approaches used to verify and identify mechanisms of invertebrate haemocyte responses to LPS could be applied with other glycoconjugates, soluble mediators, or xenobiotic compounds.
EXOENZYME S OF PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA IS SECRETED BY A TYPE III PATHWAY

Exoenzyme S is an extracellular ADP-ribosyltransferase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Transposon mutagenesis of P. aeruginosa 388 was used to identify genes required for exoenzyme S production. Five Tn5Tc insertion mutants were isolated which exhibited an exoenzyme S-deficient phenotype (388::Tn5Tc 469, 550, 3453, 4885, and 5590). Mapping experiments demonstrated that 388::Tn5Tc 3453, 4885, and 5590 possessed insertions within a 5.0 kb EcoRI fragment that is not contiguous with the exoenzyme S trans-regulatory operon. 388::Tn5Tc 469 and 550 mapped to a region downstream of the trans-regulatory operon which has been previously shown to contain a promoter region that is co-ordinately regulated with exoenzyme S synthesis. Nucleotide sequence analysis of a 7.2 kb region flanking the 388::Tn5Tc 469 and 550 insertions, identified 12 contiguous open reading frames (ORFs). Database searches indicated that the first ORF, ExsD, is unique. The other 11 ORFs demonstrated high homology to the YscB-L proteins of the yersiniae Yop type III export apparatus. RNase-protection analysis of wild-type and mutant strains indicated that exsD and pscB-L form an operon. To determine whether ExoS was exported by a type III mechanism, derivatives consisting of internal deletions or lacking amino- or carboxy-terminal residues were expressed in P. aeruginosa. Deletion analyses indicated that the amino-terminal nine residues are required for ExoS export. Combined data from mutagenesis, regulatory, expression, and sequence analyses provide strong evidence that P. aeruginosa possesses a type III secretion apparatus which is required for the export of exoenzyme S and potentially other co-ordinately regulated proteins.
Resilience and development: Contributions from the study of children who overcome adversity

This article reviews the research on resilience in order to delineate its significance and potential for understanding normal development. Resilience refers to the process of, capacity for, or outcome of successful adaptation despite challenging or threatening circumstances. Three resilience phenomena are reviewed: (a) good outcomes in high-risk children, (b) sustained competence in children under stress, and (c) recovery from trauma. It is concluded that human psychological development is highly buffered and that long-lasting consequences of adversity usually are associated with either organic damage or severe interference in the normative protective processes embedded in the caregiving system. Children who experience chronic adversity fare better or recover more successfully when they have a positive relationship with a competent adult, they are good learners and problem-solvers, they are engaging to other people, and they have areas of competence and perceived efficacy valued by self or society. Future studies of resilience will need to focus on processes that facilitate adaptation. Such studies have the potential to illuminate the range and self-righting properties of, constraints on, and linkages among different aspects of cognitive, emotional, and social development.