cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis and chronic dosimetry of the aflatoxin B1 plasma albumin adduct Lys-AFB1 in rats by isotope dilution mass spectrometry

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a major risk factor in the pathogenesis of liver cancer in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Biomarkers reflecting exposure will facilitate disease risk assessment and the efficacy of protective interventions in these populations. The Lys-AFB1 adduct in plasma albumin is a candidate biomarker for this role. Although aflatoxin albumin adducts are most frequently measured in epidemiological studies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, a more specific and 10-fold more sensitive isotopic dilution mass spectrometric assay for Lys-AFB1 has recently become available. Here, the dosimetry of chronically administered AFB1 at lower doses than have been previously studied was explored using this assay. AFB1 was administered to rats for nine consecutive days at eight dose levels ranging from 50 pg to 55 microg/kg body wt. Plasma samples were enzymatically digested and processed by solid phase extraction. Lys-AFB1 was isolated by HPLC and detected via selected reaction monitoring. The dose-response relationship was linear-quadratic exhibiting upward curvature at higher doses. The adduct yield [(pg Lys-AFB1/mg albumin)/(microg AFB1/kg body wt)] increased nonlinearly with the dose by 6-fold between the 0.05 and 55 microg AFB1/kg body wt groups and exhibited the onset of saturation in the highest dose group where the adduct yield was approximately 2%. Incomplete knowledge of the timing of exposure and the complexity of the underlying biology confound the precise determination of prior AFB1 exposures in humans; however, the dosimetry of AFB1 observed in chronically dosed rats conceptually suggests that measurements in humans may underestimate exposure if a constant fraction of the AFB1 dose, approximately 2%, is assumed to be converted to Lys-AFB1 without regard to the dose.
Systematic Error Associated with Apparatus 2 of the USP Dissolution Test IV: Effect of Air Dissolved in the Dissolution Medium

Abstract □ Acceptable concentrations of gases in a medium are not well defined in USP dissolution tests. A sample of 10-mg prednisone tablets, known to be sensitive to dissolved gases, was tested with batches of purified water that contained different concentrations of air. The data suggest that results from Apparatus 2 can be influenced by the concentration of air in the dissolution medium unless the medium remains unsaturated with air for the duration of the test. The repeatability of means of six results was markedly improved when the air concentration in the medium was accurately controlled at the beginning of the test.
COMPUTER GENERATION OF RANDOM NORMAL DEVIATES FOR MONTE CARLO WORK

A procedure is described for computer simulation of random sampling from a normally distributed population with prespecified mean and standard deviation. Evaluation of the number generator for both randomness and normality showed statistical characteristics adequate for Monte Carlo work, as well as for evaluation of psychological and behavioral models involving random error components. The computer program is included.
Some Examples of Incomplete Space-Times

An example is given of a space-time which is timelike and spacelike complete but null incomplete. An example is also given of a space-time which is geodesically complete but contains an inextendible timelike curve of bounded acceleration and finite length. These two examples may be modified so that in each case they become globally hyperbolic and retain the stated properties. All of the examples are conformally equivalent to open subsets of the two-dimensional Minkowski space.
Changes in extracellular enzyme activity and microbial community structure with soil depth at the Luquillo Critical Zone Observatory

Abstract Extracellular enzymes in soils mediate the decomposition of organic matter and catalyze key transformations in carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycling. However, most studies of extracellular enzyme activity have focused exclusively on relatively carbon and nutrient-rich surface soils. In tropical forests, several centimeters of nutrient-rich surface soil can overlay meters of resource-poor subsoil, of which the microbial ecology is poorly characterized. The goal of this study was to determine how extracellular enzyme activity changes as a function of depth across two soil orders (Oxisols and Inceptisols) and two forest types that occur at different elevations (Tabonuco, lower elevation; Colorado, higher elevation) at the Luquillo Critical Zone Observatory in northeast Puerto Rico. We excavated three soil pits to 140 cm at four different sites representing the four soil × forest combinations, and measured potential activities of four carbon-acquiring enzymes (α-glucosidase, β-glucosidase, β-xylosidase, cellobiohydrolase), one nitrogen-acquiring enzyme (N-acetyl glucosaminidase) and one organic phosphorus-acquiring enzyme (acid phosphatase) at six discrete depth intervals. We used phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis to assess viable microbial biomass and community structure. Overall, microbial biomass, specific enzyme activities and community structure were similar across the two soil and forest types, in spite of higher carbon concentrations and C:N ratios in the Colorado forest soil. Soil nutrients, microbial biomass and potential enzyme activities all declined exponentially with depth. However, when normalized to microbial biomass, specific enzyme activities either did not change with depth (β-glucosidase, β-xylosidase, cellobiohydrolase and N-acetyl glucosaminidase) or increased significantly with depth (α-glucosidase and acid phosphatase, P
Performance of Jet V/STOL Tactical Aircraft Nozzles

V/STOL aircraft impose stringent requirements on exhaust nozzles. In many cases, this type nozzle must provide a high level of thrust for liftoff and maintain it while vectoring. Grumman ran a test program to optimize V/STOL nozzle designs and obtain a basic understanding of the complicated exhaust nozzle flow process. The program made use of fiberglass models which were 1/6.5 scale of representative fighter designs. Tests were run statically with cold air. The configurations examined were cut-off plug, single bearing swivel-tee plenum, single bearing swivel-scroll plenum, and flap nozzle. The effects of number of vanes, Mach number, and distortion were examined. The performance of the nozzles was broken down into plenum and nozzle, where applicable.Copyright © 1973 by ASME
From flower to seed: identifying phenological markers and reliable growth functions to model reproductive development in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

The lack of dependable morphological indicators for the onset and end of seed growth has hindered modeling work in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). We have addressed this problem through the use of mathematical growth functions to analyse and identify critical developmental stages, which can be linked to existing developmental indices. We performed this study under greenhouse conditions with an Andean and a Mesoamerican genotype of contrasting pod and seed phenotypes, and three selected recombinant inbred lines. Pods from tagged flowers were harvested at regular time intervals for various measurements. Differences in flower production and seed and pod growth trajectories among genotypes were detected via comparisons of parameters of fitted growth functions. Regardless of the genotype, the end of pod elongation marked the beginning of seed growth, which lasted until pods displayed a sharp decline in color, or pod hue angle. These results suggest that the end of pod elongation and the onset of color change are reliable indicators of important developmental transitions in the seed, even for widely differing pod phenotypes. We also provide a set of equations that can be used to model different aspects of reproductive growth and development in the common bean.
α,α′‐Dibromo‐o‐xylene

[91-13-4] C8H8Br2 (MW 263.97) InChI = 1S/C8H8Br2/c9-5-7-3-1-2-4-8(7)6-10/h1-4H,5-6H2 InChIKey = KGKAYWMGPDWLQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N (a source of o-quinodimethane, a highly reactive diene useful in Diels–Alder reactions;1 an electrophile for the synthesis of carbo- and heterocyclic compounds including macrocycles (cyclophanes, crown ethers, hemispherands, spherands),2 cryptands,3 hemicarcerands,4 vaulted cappedophanes,5 bicyclic compounds,6 spirocyclic compounds;7 a protective group reagent for diols8) Alternate Name: 1,2-bis(bromomethyl)benzene. Physical Data: mp 95 °C (CHCl3–EtOH); bp 140 °C/20 mmHg; d 1.960 g cm−3; dipole moment (hexane, 20 °C) 1.98 D. Solubility: sol ethanol, ether, chloroform; slightly sol petroleum ether. Form Supplied in: commercially available as a solid. Purification: recrystallization from 95% ethanol (3 mL g−1), petroleum ether (bp 60–80 °C) (19 mL g−1), chloroform (1 mL g−1). Column chromatography (silica gel, cyclohexane–ethyl acetate). Handling, Storage, and Precautions: avoid moisture; corrosive (forms HBr on hydrolysis); lachrymator; not mutagenic in Ames test; decontaminate by soaking apparatus, etc. in alcoholic alkali for 24 h or longer.
Comparison of computer- and human-derived coronary angiographic end-point measures for controlled therapy trials.

The Cholesterol Lowering Atherosclerosis Study, a randomized angiographic clinical trial, demonstrated the beneficial effect of niacin/colestipol plus diet therapy on coronary atherosclerosis. Outcome was determined by panel-based estimates (viewed in both still and cine modes) of percent stenosis severity and change in native artery and bypass graft lesions. Computer-based quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) was also used to measure lesion and bypass graft stenosis severity and change in individual frames closely matched in orientation, opacification, and cardiac phase. Both methods jointly evaluated 350 nonoccluded lesions. The correlation between QCA and panel estimates of lesion size was 0.70 (p less than 0.0001) and for change in lesion size was 0.28 (p = 0.002). Agreement between the two methods in classifying lesion changes (i.e., regression, unchanged, or progression) occurred for 60% (210 of 350) of the lesions kappa +/- SEM = 0.20 +/- 0.05, p less than 0.001). The panel identified 442 nonoccluded lesions for which QCA stenosis measurements could not be obtained. Lesions not measurable by QCA included those with stenosis greater than 85% that could not be reliably edge tracked, segments with diffuse or ecstatic disease that had no reliable reference diameter, and segments for which matched frames could not be located. Seventy-nine lesions, the majority between 21% and 40% stenosis, were identified and measured by QCA but were not identified by the panel. This comparison study demonstrates the need to consider available angiographic measurement methods in relation to the goals of their use.
Directly parameterized regression conditioning on being alive: analysis of longitudinal data truncated by deaths

SUMMARY For observational longitudinal studies of geriatric populations, outcomes such as disability or cognitive functioning are often censored by death. Statistical analysis of such data may explicitly condition on either vital status or survival time when summarizing the longitudinal response. For example a patternmixture model characterizes the mean response at time t conditional on death at time S = s (for s > t), and thus uses future status as a predictor for the time t response. As an alternative, we define regression conditioning on being alive as a regression model that conditions on survival status, rather than a specific survival time. Such models may be referred to as partly conditional since the mean at time t is specified conditional on being alive (S > t), rather than using finer stratification (S = s for s > t). We show that naive use of standard likelihood-based longitudinal methods and generalized estimating equations with non-independence weights may lead to biased estimation of the partly conditional mean model. We develop a taxonomy for accommodation of both dropout and death, and describe estimation for binary longitudinal data that applies selection weights to estimating equations with independence working correlation. Simulation studies and an analysis of monthly disability status illustrate potential bias in regression methods that do not explicitly condition on survival.
Recovery from "bad" user transactions

User written transaction code is responsible for the "C" in ACID transactions, i.e., taking the database from one consistent state to the next. However, user transactions can be flawed and lead to inconsistent (or invalid) states. Database systems usually correct invalid data using "point in time" recovery, a costly process that installs a backup and rolls it forward. The result is long outages and the "de-commit" of many valid transactions, which must then be re-submitted, frequently manually. We have implemented in our transaction-time database system a technique in which only data tainted by a flawed transaction and transactions dependent upon its updates are "removed". This process identifies and quarantines tainted data despite the complication of determining transactions dependent on data written by the flawed transaction. A further property of our implementation is that no backup needs to be installed for this because the prior transaction-time states provide an online backup.
Continuous quantitative monitoring of cerebral oxygen metabolism in neonates by ventilator-gated analysis of NIRS recordings.

Oxidative stress during fetal development, delivery, or early postnatal life is a major cause of neuropathology, as both hypoxic and hyperoxic insults can significantly damage the developing brain. Despite the obvious need for reliable cerebral oxygenation monitoring, no technology currently exists to monitor cerebral oxygen metabolism continuously and noninvasively in infants at high risk for developing brain injury. Consequently, a rational approach to titrating oxygen supply to cerebral oxygen demand – and thus avoiding hyperoxic or hypoxic insults – is currently lacking. We present a promising method to close this crucial technology gap in the important case of neonates on conventional ventilators. By using cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and signals from conventional ventilators, along with arterial oxygen saturation, we derive continuous (breath-by-breath) estimates of cerebral venous oxygen saturation, cerebral oxygen extraction fraction, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen. The resultant estimates compare very favorably to previously reported data obtained by non-continuous and invasive means from preterm infants in neonatal critical care.
LDPC-coded OAM modulation and multiplexing for deep-space and near-Earth optical communications

In order to achieve multi-gigabit transmission (projected for 2020) for the use in interplanetary communications, the usage of large number of time slots in pulse-position modulation (PPM), typically used in deep-space applications, is needed, which imposes stringent requirements on system design and implementation. As an alternative satisfying high-bandwidth demands of future interplanetary communications, while keeping the system cost and power consumption reasonably low, in this invited paper, we describe the use of orbital angular momentum (OAM) as an additional degree of freedom. The OAM is associated with azimuthal phase of the complex electric field. Because OAM eigenstates are orthogonal the can be used as basis functions for multidimensional signaling. The OAM modulation and multiplexing can, therefore, be used, in combination with other degrees of freedom, to solve the high-bandwidth requirements of future deep-space and near-Earth optical communications. The main challenge for OAM deep-space communication represents the link between a spacecraft probe and the Earth station because in the presence of atmospheric turbulence the orthogonality between OAM states is not longer preserved. We will show that in combination with LDPC codes, the OAM-based modulation schemes can operate even under strong atmospheric turbulence regime.
An EMTP study of SSR mitigation using the thyristor controlled series capacitor

This paper presents an EMTP (Electro-Magnetic Transient Program) simulation study of the subsynchronous resonance (SSR) mitigation effect of thyristor controlled series VAr compensation (TCSC) operated in the vernier mode, based on a simplified model of the North-Western American Power System (NWAPS). The study shows that TCSC vernier operation provides significant mitigation of SSR in some cases. An analysis of the equivalent TCSC impedance with respect to different frequencies is used to supplement these studies. >
A Scalable Architecture for RSA Cryptography on Large FPGAs

The RSA algorithm is the standard for public-key cryptography today, with Montgomery multiplication [1] the most common mechanism of implementation due to modulo operations using a bitwise shift in place of a division operation. Several Montgomery designs have been proposed for ASIC and FPGA implementation based on limited resource availability to satisfy the computational burden [2,3,4]. FPGAs are now available that have large configurable logic resources in addition to dedicated high-speed ALU logic for operations such as multiplication. We propose an improvement to a limited resource Montgomery multiplier design, the MWR2MM algorithm proposed by Tenca and Koc, which is suitable for implementation on large FPGAs. The design can be scaled to utilize available FPGA multipliers, CLB logic and frequencies of operation.
HIGH RESOLUTION STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MISFIT ACCOMMODATION AND GROWTH OF Cu2-xS IN CdS

The growth of Cu/sub 2-x/S in the (0001) basal face of single crystal cadmium sulfide has been studied with high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and diffraction. Cross-sectional Cu/sub 2-x/S/CdS specimens and plan-view Cu/sub 2-x/S separated films were prepared from heterojunctions formed by the aqueous conversion of CdS to topotaxial Cu/sub 2-x/S. Low chalcocite films were found to form in two principal stages; (1) coalescence of low chalcocite islands and (2) an accelerated reaction localized at pores in the Cu/sub 2-x/S film. Several possible misfit accommodation mechanisms involving twinning, cracking, and a second copper sulfide phase were identified. 9 references, 3 figures, 1 table.
Non‐invasive electrophysiological monitoring: A sensitive method for detecting sublethal neurotoxicity in earthworms

Earthworms were exposed, by external surface contact, to three chemical pollutants: dieldrin (a known neurotoxicant), dimethyl phthalate and fluorene (a possible neurotoxicant). After 48 h of exposure, LC50 values were determined and compared with concentrations required for sublethal neurotoxic effects on giant nerve fiber conduction velocity and escape reflex function, as assessed by nonin vasive electrophysiological recordings. For dieldrin, sublethal decreases in giant fiber conduction velocity occurred at concentrations as low as 1.4 ppm, whereas much higher concentrations were required for lethality (48-h LC50 = 8,100 ppm). Other sublethal effects of dieldrin included hyperresponsiveness of giant fibers, reduction in giant fiber-mediated muscle potentials, tonic spasms of longitudinal shortening and ataxia. For fluorene, sublethal neurophysiological effects, including reduced conduction velocity and occasional “rebound” spiking of giant fibers, were evident at 100 and 250 ppm. By comparison, the 48-h LC50 for fluorene was 360 ppm. No sublethal neurophysiological effects were evident following treatment with dimethyl phthalate; the 48-h LC50 was 10,900 ppm. The results indicate that noninvasive electrophysiological recording of earthworm escape reflex function can be used as a sensitive means of detecting potential sublethal neurotoxic effects of pesticides and other environmental pollutants in these nontarget organisms.
Trailing vortices in homogeneous and density-stratified media

Experiments were conducted with three delta wings and two rectangular wings to investigate the evolution of trailing vortices in stratified and unstratified water. The vortex trajectories were determined as a function of the normalized time V0t/b0, stratification parameter Nb0/V0 and an effective vortex-core size re/b0. The results have shown that the vortices rise only to a finite height as they decay gradually at first and rapidly thereafter under the influence of turbulence, sinusoidal instability, and core bursting. The effect of stratification is to reduce the lifespan of vortices and the maximum height attained by them.
Recent History of Large-Scale Ecosystem Disturbances in North America Derived from the AVHRR Satellite Record

Ecosystem structure and function are strongly affected by disturbance events, many of which in North America are associated with seasonal temperature extremes, wildfires, and tropical storms. This study was conducted to evaluate patterns in a 19-year record of global satellite observations of vegetation phenology from the advanced very high resolution radiometer (AVHRR) as a means to characterize major ecosystem disturbance events and regimes. The fraction absorbed of photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) by vegetation canopies worldwide has been computed at a monthly time interval from 1982 to 2000 and gridded at a spatial resolution of 8–km globally. Potential disturbance events were identified in the FPAR time series by locating anomalously low values (FPAR-LO) that lasted longer than 12 consecutive months at any 8-km pixel. We can find verifiable evidence of numerous disturbance types across North America, including major regional patterns of cold and heat waves, forest fires, tropical storms, and large-scale forest logging. Summed over 19 years, areas potentially influenced by major ecosystem disturbances (one FPAR-LO event over the period 1982–2000) total to more than 766,000 km2. The periods of highest detection frequency were 1987–1989, 1995–1997, and 1999. Sub-continental regions of the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and Central Canada had the highest proportion (>90%) of FPAR-LO pixels detected in forests, tundra shrublands, and wetland areas. The Great Lakes region showed the highest proportion (39%) of FPAR-LO pixels detected in cropland areas, whereas the western United States showed the highest proportion (16%) of FPAR-LO pixels detected in grassland areas. Based on this analysis, an historical picture is emerging of periodic droughts and heat waves, possibly coupled with herbivorous insect outbreaks, as among the most important causes of ecosystem disturbance in North America.
A general imaging model and a method for finding its parameters

Linear perspective projection has served as the dominant imaging model in computer vision. Recent developments in image sensing make the perspective model highly restrictive. This paper presents a general imaging model that can be used to represent an arbitrary imaging system. It is observed that all imaging systems perform a mapping from incoming scene rays to photo-sensitive elements on the image detector. This mapping can be conveniently described using a set of virtual sensing elements called raxels. Raxels include geometric, radiometric and optical properties. We present a novel calibration method that uses structured light patterns to extract the raxel parameters of an arbitrary imaging system. Experimental results for perspective as well as ion-perspective imaging systems are included.
Mechanisms of ankle injury.

Summary It is of practical value to understand the mechanism of injury because each mechanism produces injuries with well defined characteristics, and reporting an injury by mechanism is descriptive. Reduction is usually accomplished by reversing the direction of the forces causing the injury. Thus it is important to recognize the characteristics of the fractures caused by each mechanism. The nature of the injury is determined by the mechanism and in turn determines the method and period of immobilization as well as the prognosis. Each mechanism causes characteristic ligament injury and awareness of the mechanism makes it easier to find the ligament damage and to treat it.
Structural, Chemical, and Electrochemical Characterization of Layered Li [ Li0.17Mn0.33Co0.5 − y Ni y ] O2 Cathodes

Layered Li[Li 0.17 Mn 0.33 Co 0.5-y Ni y ]O 2 (0 ≤ y ≤ 0.5) cathodes belonging to a solid solution series between layered Li[Li 1/3 Mn 2/3 ]O 2 and LiCo 1-z Ni z O 2 were synthesized at 900 and 750°C and characterized as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. The observed lithium content in the samples decreases with increasing Ni content due to a tendency to form Ni 2+ and volatilization of lithium during synthesis. The first charge and discharge capacities decrease with increasing Ni content. For example, the first discharge capacity drops from 269 mAh/g for the y = 0 sample to 194 mAh/g for the y = 0.5 sample. The decrease in the discharge capacity with increasing Ni content is due to a decrease in the lithium content in the transition metal layer and a consequent decrease in the amount of oxygen lost irreversibly during the first charge as indicated by a structural and chemical characterization of the chemically delithiated samples.
Electrochemical preparation of Photosystem I-polyaniline composite films for biohybrid solar energy conversion.

In this work, we report for the first time the entrapment of the biomolecular supercomplex Photosystem I (PSI) within a conductive polymer network of polyaniline via electrochemical copolymerization. Composite polymer–protein films were prepared on gold electrodes through potentiostatic electropolymerization from a single aqueous solution containing both aniline and PSI. This study demonstrates the controllable integration of large membrane proteins into rapidly prepared composite films, the entrapment of such proteins was observed through photoelectrochemical analysis. PSI’s unique function as a highly efficient biomolecular photodiode generated a significant enhancement in photocurrent generation for the PSI-loaded polyaniline films, compared to pristine polyaniline films, and dropcast PSI films. A comprehensive study was then performed to separately evaluate film thickness and PSI concentration in the initial polymerization solution and their effects on the net photocurrent of this novel material. The ...
Operant control of vocal behavior in the monkey Cebus albifrons

Vocalizations of three monkeys (Cebus albifrons) were established as operants: they increased in frequency when followed by positive reinforcement and yielded to stimulus control.
The alpha isoform of protein kinase C mediates phorbol ester-induced growth inhibition and p21cip1 induction in HC11 mammary epithelial cells.

To clarify the roles of specific isoforms of PKC in regulating growth and cell cycle progression of the HC11 mammary epithelial cell line, we investigated the eAects of activating endogenous PKC isoforms with the phorbol ester tumor promoter TPA, and also the eAects of TPA on genetically engineered cells containing increased levels of individual PKC isoforms. We found that TPA treatment of HC11 cells induced a transient cell cycle arrest in G0/G1. Western blot analyses of the TPA treated cells provided evidence that the endogenous PKCa present in these cells mediated these eAects. Indeed, derivatives of the HC11 cell line that inducibly overexpress an exogenous PKCa or ectopic PKCb1 exhibited more marked growth inhibition by TPA than control cells. Immunohistochemical staining of cells following treatment with TPA revealed selective translocation of PKCa into the nucleus, whereas PKCb1 remained in the cytoplasm. The transient arrest of HC11 cells following treatment with TPA was associated with marked induction of both p21 cip1 mRNA and protein. This induction was exaggerated in the derivatives that overexpressed either PKCa or PKCb1. Therefore, in mouse mammary epithelial cells activation of the endogenous PKCa can transiently arrest cells in G0/G1 which may be due, at least in part, to induction of the transcription of p21 cip1 .
Research on the Post-evaluation Content and Method of Cities Municipal Facilities Investment Project

This paper makes clear the definition of cities municipal facilities investment project's post-evaluation,constructs content system about research of municipal facilities investment project's post-evaluation and brings up the method of research about municipal facilities investment project's post-evaluation. It will make basis for further research in future.
A multiple-stage activation of the catalytically inhomogeneous Cu(0) wire used in SET-LRP

The surface of a Cu(0) wire used as a catalyst in the single electron-transfer living radical polymerization (SET-LRP) is inhomogeneous since it contains predominantly a combination of Cu(111) and Cu(100) faces of the face centered cubic unit cell of copper single crystals. The ratio between the areas of these two orientations is determined by the method of fabrication of the copper wire. The activity of these faces towards SET reactions is substrate dependent, and therefore, aside from the Cu2O available on the surface, the ratio between the areas of these two crystal faces determines the catalytic activity of the wire. The inhomogeneous morphology of the Cu(0) wire is well-established and known in the scientific community of metallurgy but apparently is not known by the community of polymer chemistry. Here, we report a multiple-stage activation of the catalytically inhomogeneous Cu(0) wire used in SET-LRP by a combination of acetone washing, razor blade scratching, and either reduction or acid dissolution of the Cu2O from the surface. An increase of Cu(0) wire activity up to 82% was accomplished via this new and simple activation method.
How "blind" are double-blind placebo-controlled trials of benzodiazepine hypnotics?

This study examined the accuracy of insomnia patients and their treating physicians in rating whether an active hypnotic drug or a placebo was given in treatment. Forty older adults with primary insomnia were randomly assigned to either an active (temazepam) or a placebo condition using a double-blind strategy. Ratings of treatment conditions were obtained at 1 week (early treatment), 4 weeks (midtreatment), and 8 weeks (late treatment). Patients were able to accurately discriminate (beyond chance levels) between the active and placebo medications at the early (76.9% accuracy) and late treatment assessment timepoints (78.1% accuracy), but not at midtreatment (51.5% accuracy). Therapists, however, were able to make accurate discriminations at the late treatment assessment timepoint only (80% accuracy) ; early (69.2% accuracy) and midtreatment (47.2% accuracy) ratings did not exceed chance levels. Patients who had used hypnotic drugs prior to this trial were more accurate in their judgments of treatment conditions than those without prior exposure. The findings raise an important issue about the internal validity of the double-blind strategy, which may in fact be only a single-blind procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Image Guided Radiation Therapy for External Beam Accelerated Partial-Breast Irradiation: Evaluation of Delivered Dose and Intrafractional Cavity Motion.

Purpose To use magnetic resonance image guided radiation therapy (MR-IGRT) for accelerated partial-breast irradiation (APBI) to ( 1 ) determine intrafractional motion of the breast surgical cavity; and ( 2 ) assess delivered dose versus planned dose. Methods and Materials Thirty women with breast cancer (stages 0-I) who underwent breast-conserving surgery were enrolled in a prospective registry evaluating APBI using a 0.35-T MR-IGRT system. Clinical target volume was defined as the surgical cavity plus a 1-cm margin (excluding chest wall, pectoral muscles, and 5 mm from skin). No additional margin was added for the planning target volume (PTV). A volumetric MR image was acquired before each fraction, and patients were set up to the surgical cavity as visualized on MR imaging. To determine the delivered dose for each fraction, the electron density map and contours from the computed tomography simulation were transferred to the pretreatment MR image via rigid registration. Intrafractional motion of the surgical cavity was determined by applying a tracking algorithm to the cavity contour as visualized on cine MR. Results Median PTV volume was reduced by 52% when using no PTV margin compared with a 1-cm PTV margin used conventionally. The mean (± standard deviation) difference between planned and delivered dose to the PTV (V95) was 0.6% ± 0.1%. The mean cavity displacement in the anterior–posterior and superior–inferior directions was 0.6 ± 0.4 mm and 0.6 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. The mean margin required for at least 90% of the cavity to be contained by the margin for 90% of the time was 0.7 mm (5th-95th percentile: 0-2.7 mm). Conclusion Minimal intrafractional motion was observed, and the mean difference between planned and delivered dose was less than 1%. Assessment of efficacy and cosmesis of this MR-guided APBI approach is under way.
Hardness and Texture Evolution of Sputtered TiN Thin Films with Different Thicknesses on Ti6Al4V Substrate

In this present work, TiN films with various thicknesses (from 0.3 μm to 2 μm) were deposited by DC reactive magnetron sputtering on Ti6Al4V substrates. The evolution of texture and microstructure were studied by X-ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy, respectively. The XRD characterization indicates that the preferred texture of TiN films is changed from (111) to (100) with increasing the film thickness. The microstructure characterization shows that their microstructure transform from continuous into columnar with increasing the TiN film thickness. It is considered these results are arised from the change of overall energy including surface energy and strain energy with the film thickness. The hardness of TiN film increases with increasing the film thickness.
Russia's Environment and Natural Resources in Light of Economic Regionalization

A specialist on environmental policy and problems in Russia and the states of the former Soviet Union assesses the current state of the environment, emerging environmental problems, and possible future developments in Russia's regions as a result of increasing regional differentiation brought about by the varied impacts of economic reform and restructuring in Russia. Particular attention is devoted to the environmental ramifications of regional economic specialization (e.g., raw materials vs. finished goods production), privatization, reduction in state subsidies and investment, incipient domestic mass consumption, character of future urban/suburban development, and the role of exports to world markets. 3 tables, 36 references.
High expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 is associated with estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer

642 Background: Chemokine receptor CXCR4 and its ligand CXCL12 (SDF-1alpha) are important in the metastatic spread of breast cancer. Previous studies have shown that CXCR4 is overexpressed in breas...
The Rise and Fall of Iraq in the Social Sciences

Objective This article analyzes how the extremely authoritarian nature of the Iraqi regime affected scholarship of Iraq and shows how regime opacity and brutality constrain social science research. Methods The article examines scholarly output on Iraq using qualitative and quantitative metrics from the Saddam Hussein era and the post-2003 period after his removal from power. Results The article finds a dramatic increase in the quantity of publications on Iraq after 2003 and a shift toward more nomothetic, theory-building research involving Iraq. New forms of research on Iraq, including field research, embedded observation, interviews, surveys, and archival research, also became prevalent after 2003. Conclusion The progress of social science research depends both on regime transparency and regime stability. Researchers can adjust techniques to address the absence of transparency or stability, but without the combination of both, the overall venture suffers.
Uncovering the transcriptomic and epigenomic landscape of nicotinic receptor genes in non-neuronal tissues

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) play an important role in cellular physiology and human nicotine dependence, and are closely associated with many human diseases including cancer. For example, previous studies suggest that nAChRs can re-wire gene regulatory networks in lung cancer cell lines. However, the tissue specificity of nAChRs genes and their regulation remain unexplored. In this study, we integrated data from multiple large genomic consortiums, including ENCODE, Roadmap Epigenomics, GTEx, and FANTOM, to define the transcriptomic and epigenomic landscape of all nicotinic receptor genes across many different human tissues and cell types. We found that many important nAChRs, including CHRNA3, CHRNA4, CHRNA5, and CHRNB4, exhibited strong non-neuronal tissue-specific expression patterns. CHRNA3, CHRNA5, and CHRNB4 were highly expressed in human colon and small intestine, and CHRNA4 was highly expressed in human liver. By comparing the epigenetic marks of CHRNA4 in human liver and hippocampus, we identified a novel liver-specific transcription start site (TSS) of CHRNA4. We further demonstrated that CHRNA4 was specifically transcribed in hepatocytes but not transcribed in hepatic sinusoids and stellate cells, and that transcription factors HNF4A and RXRA were likely upstream regulators of CHRNA4. Our findings suggest that CHRNA4 has distinct transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in human liver and brain, and that this tissue-specific expression pattern is evolutionarily conserved in mouse. Finally, we found that liver-specific CHRNA4 transcription was highly correlated with genes involved in the nicotine metabolism, including CYP2A6, UGT2B7, and FMO3. These genes were significantly down-regulated in liver cancer patients, whereas CHRNA4 is also significantly down-regulated in cancer-matched normal livers. Our results suggest important non-neuronally expressed nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the human body. These non-neuronal expression patterns are highly tissue-specific, and are epigenetically conserved during evolution in the context of non-conserved DNA sequence.
Fifty years of recurring struggles with recurrent laryngeal neuropathy

Summary Recurrent laryngeal neuropathy appears to be a simple problem that should have a simple solution, yet the complexity and dynamic nature of laryngeal function is underappreciated. This review highlights the challenges and accomplishments that work towards that greater understanding of what is necessary to find a successful solution.
Creep Buckling of Reinforced Concrete Columns

The effect of creep on the buckling strength of pinned, axially-loaded, initially-bent reinforced concrete columns under static sustained loading is investigated. An unstable column is defined as one which collapses before a finite desired life time has elapsed. The analysis is geometrically linear, physically nonlinear and quasistatic. The governing equations, which are of the quasilinear parabolic type, are solved by approximate mathematical and numerical methods. A digital computer program, which solves for the life time of a given column, is developed, Elasto-plastic buckling induced by creep is found to be the only important creep buckling mode. This mode is called indirect creep buckling. Results are given by graphs for the critical loads for short-time and sustained loading as functions of the slenderness and the initial imperfectness. They show that creep can significantly reduce the capacity of the type of columns investigated. The most important parameters affecting the reduction factor are the slenderness and the initial imperfectness of the column, the creep coefficient, the relative amount and yield stress of the reinforcing steel.
Relationship of in vitro and in planta screening: improving the selection process for biological control agents against Fusarium root rot in row crops

Fusarium root rot in row crops is typically managed by cultural practices and fungicide seed treatments. Biological control using microbial agents is another option but needs further develo...
Forms of Resistance by Temporary Hospitality Employees

Drawing on empirical material collected from 174 individuals employed in a variety of short-term hospitality positions, this article examines how temporary employees pursue grievances against their...
Targeting Bacteroides in Stool Microbiome and Response to Treatment With First-Line VEGF Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Metastatic Renal-Cell Carcinoma.

Abstract Background Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are a mainstay of treatment for metastatic renal-cell carcinoma. Stool microbiome composition is predictive of response to immunotherapy and cytotoxic chemotherapy. We sought to investigate whether antibiotics targeting Bacteroides species affect progression-free survival (PFS) while receiving first-line VEGF-TKI therapy. Patients and Methods Using a retrospective cohort of intermediate- and poor-risk metastatic renal-cell carcinoma patients from the University of Utah, we categorized patients receiving first-line VEGF-TKIs by receipt of antibiotics (Bacteroides spp., non-Bacteroides spp., or none) and assessed PFS by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard models. Results Of 145 patients, 17 received antibiotics with Bacteroides spp. coverage and 32 patients received antibiotics without Bacteroides spp. coverage. When compared to patients not receiving antibiotics, improved PFS was seen with each additional day antibiotics were prescribed with Bacteroides spp. coverage (hazard ratio = 0.92; 95% confidence interval, 0.83-0.99; P = .04). Conclusion Targeting stool Bacteroides spp. with antibiotics improves PFS in patients receiving first-line VEGF-TKIs in a duration-dependent manner.
Biofuels Supply Risk and Price Volatility

Biofuels have been evaluated based on their greenhouse gas emissions, costs, and potential scale of production. Here we propose that feedstock supply risks should be added to the list of key metrics for evaluating the performance and scalability potential of transportation biofuels. Biofuels rely on agricultural production as their primary input, which is subject to yield shocks. A risky feedstock supply in conjunction with a highly inelastic demand for transportation fuels can cause substantial fuel price fluctuations, cost volatility, and quantitative shortages if left unmanaged, which could negatively impact biofuels firms, consumers, and society, particularly as biofuels grow to meet policy mandates. We show that the historical yields and prices of major crops used as feedstock are volatile, with a volatility roughly comparable to that of crude oil. We outline the determinants of biofuels supply risks, and discuss how the magnitude of these risks may change with production scale and technological specifications. Finally, we discuss various policy-level and firm-level strategies for reducing the supply risks of biofuels, including geographical and crop diversification. Our analysis focuses on biofuels, but the general framework could be applied to analyze the expected price volatility and scalability potential of other technologies as well.
V-Cillin K® (Lilly)

Penicillin V, the phenoxymethyl analogue of penicillin G, is a semisynthetic penicillin for oral use; discussed here is the potassium salt of penicillin V (often called Penicillin VK). This drug is more stable in acid than is penicillin G and, thus, it is better absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Its actions are the same as those of penicillin G for gram-positive microorganisms and it is, therefore, preferable to penicillin G in cases in which the oral route is desirable, but it is less effective than penicillin G against gram-negative microorganisms, especially Neisseria species. (Thus, it is not recommended for gonococcal infections.) Like penicillin G, this agent is not effective against penicillinase-producing bacteria.
Interactive Design of a Manpower System

We describe an interactive optimization program for the design of a manpower system. The user inputs design parameters such as lower bounds on staffing by rank, the average age for promotion into a rank, the fraction of force with a specified number of years experience, a total effectiveness, and an exact specification of total system size. Subject to these constraints a configuration of flows is produced that minimizes system cost. We discuss the model’s uses and limitations, demonstrate the use of cost sensitivity information, and indicate how the model can be used to measure possible cost-effectiveness tradeoffs.
Rewinding Roe v. Wade: Understanding the Accelerated Adoption of State-Level Restrictive Abortion Legislation, 2008–2014

Since 2008 the volume of state-level legislation regulating abortion has dramatically increased, with nearly 300 restrictive laws passing in 33 states. While the character of these laws is varied, ...
Using Information Technology at Kaiser Permanente to Support Health Equity

The mission of Kaiser Permanente, the largest not-for-profit integrated health care delivery system in the USA, is “to provide high-quality, affordable health care services to improve the health of our members and communities we serve.” This paired focus on the health of individuals and communities derives from the organization’s core value of health equity, which encompasses two notions: (1) the organization’s own members must have equal access to the highest-quality care, regardless of socioeconomic or any other factors; and (2) that health systems must address unhealthy environmental factors that disproportionately pose barriers to both members’ and the larger community’s ability to thrive. Health information technology (IT) is a critical enabler of Kaiser Permanente’s work to address health equity. This chapter describes the specific IT systems and tools used by Kaiser Permanente to identify and narrow or eliminate disparities in care for its members, including one of the nation’s largest electronic health records (EHRs), panel health management tools, a patient portal, and various telehealth technologies. The chapter concludes with a caution—that use of information technology in health care can itself lead to disparities in care—and discusses ways that delivery systems can and must work to ensure a future in which these tools are used to improve care for everyone.
Abstract 20: Are We Ready for High(er) Sensitivity Troponin Assays? The Positive Predictive Value of a Contemporary Troponin Assay for Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background: Patients with elevated troponin (cTn) in the absence of Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) present a diagnostic dilemma: they at high risk of adverse cardiac events, yet there is little ...
Economic impact and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease outcomes of a comprehensive inhaler to nebulization therapy protocol implementation in a large multi-state healthcare system

Objective: There are currently 39 FDA-approved metered-dose (MDI) or dry-powder inhalers (DPI) on the US market. Most are high cost with significantly more drug in the device than needed for a typi...
Services Received vs Services Needed by Families in Child Welfare Systems

This article compares and contrasts the services needed by families in child welfare systems with the services that families receive. A mixed-methods approach was used to triangulate data from a variety of sources, including administrative databases, case file reviews, and focus groups with child welfare caseworkers and clients. Through this analysis, four overarching themes are explored: (a) perceptions of system-involved families’ needs, (b) engagement of families in service planning, (c) availability and accessibility of services, and (d) the quality and appropriateness of services provided to families. Findings suggest that considerable gaps and barriers exist that prevent system-involved families from receiving the services they need. The manuscript concludes with research and practice recommendations about meeting the service needs of families in child welfare systems.