cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preliminary characterization of a small intestinal binding component for retinol and fatty acids in the rat

Abstract A component which can bind retinol and fatty acids was detected in the rat's intestinal cell cytosol following intestinal perfusion in vivo with 3H-all-trans retinol. Following Sephadex G-100 filtration of the cytosol, the void volume concentrate was treated with 2-mercaptoethanol and SDS. Sephadex G-100 filtration of the concentrate disclosed the presence of a cytosol binder of an approximate molecular weight of 12,000–17,000. The binder contained most of the 3H-retinol eluted off the column. In vitro incubation experiments disclosed that 3H-retinol could be displaced from its bindinf cytosol fraction by the addition of nonradioactive retinol, retinyl acetate, and the fatty acids octanoic, linoleic, and linolenic. Butyric acid addition did not displace 3H-retinol from its binding fraction. The intestinal cytosol binding fraction may be involved in the trans-cytosol transport of lipid compounds from the lipid cell membrane to the intracellular organelles.
A SIMPLE METHOD OF PREPARING "COATED" RED BLOOD CELLS FOR USE AS A CONTROL IN ANTIGLOBULIN TESTING.

Red blood cells may be “coated” with antibody by means of incubation with an appropriately selected antiserum. The coated cells are then washed, resuspended in a much-diluted group AB serum, and used to detect the free antiglobulin remaining in negative direct or indirect Coombs tests. A method of preparing such cell suspensions is given, and their use to detect false negative antiglobulin tests is discussed.
The ecofeminist pragmatism of Caroline Bartlett Crane, 1896–1935

Many early sociologists, particularly in Chicago and both inside and outside of the academy, focused on the relation between human society, social justice, and the natural environment. Caroline Bartlett Crane (1858-1935), applied sociologist and noted Progressive Era reformer, was an eminent figure in this work. She linked healthy individuals and social justice to a robust and balanced environment. In addition to her national leadership in municipal sanitation, Crane labored to protect the natural environment from the rapid degradation caused by increased industrialization, population growth, and changes in land use and exploitation during the Progressive Era. As one of the forerunners of the ecology and ecofeminism movements of today, Crane is part of women’s hidden heritage and her life exemplifies the theory of “ecofeminist pragmatism.”
Autoradiographic localization of 5HT1 binding sites in the medulla oblongata of the rat.

Serotonin (5HT) binding sites in the medulla oblongata of the rat were localized using autoradiographic techniques with radioactive ligands that express high affinity for the 5HT1, (3H-5HT), 5HT1A (3H-8OH-DPAT), or 5HT1B (125I-CYP with isoproterenol) receptor subtypes. 5HT1A sites were concentrated primarily in certain sensory regions of the medulla and in regions that contain serotonergic neurons. 5HT1B sites were diffusely distributed throughout the reticular formation and motor regions as well as being localized to certain sensory regions. A surprising finding was an association of 5HT1B binding sites with the corticospinal tract. 3H-5HT binding generally reflected the combined pattern of 5HT1A and 5HT1B sites but was also extremely dense in the choroid plexus, which exhibited virtually no 5HT1A or 5HT1B ligand binding. Presumably this binding, which was blocked by ketanserin, corresponds to 5HT1C sites. Administration of the serotonergic neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine reduced 5HT1A binding sites in regions of the medulla that contain serotonergic neuronal cell bodies. 5HT1B binding was not significantly altered in any area of the medulla. These studies indicate an important role for 5HT1A ligands in the processing of visceral and somatic sensory information, in regulation of certain cerebellar afferent projections, and in the regulation of serotonergic neuronal activity. 5HT1B ligands would be expected to regulate visceral and somatic efferent activity, as well as sensory information and reticular efferent activity, and might presynaptically regulate cortical inputs to the brain stem and spinal cord.
Abstract 4379: Involvement of phosphatidylserine externalization and DNA damage in arsenic-induced toxicity to hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that is widely distributed in nature, air, water and soil. A well-known toxic and carcinogenic agent, arsenic has been associated with various human malignancies, including skin, lung, liver, kidney and bladder cancers. It has been shown to induce apoptosis in a variety of malignant cell lines, but the precise mechanisms involved in arsenic toxicity and carcinogenicity are not well elucidated. In this study, we used hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells as a model to determine whether DNA damage and phosphatidylserine externalization are involved in arsenic trioxide (ATO) toxicity. The MTT, single cell gel electrophoresis and annexin-V assays were used to assess cell viability, DNA damage and apoptosis, respectively. The results of the MTT assay demonstrated that ATO significantly reduced the viability of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent fashion, showing a LD50 value of about 8.5 μg/mL, upon 24 hours of exposure. Data generated from the comet assay showed a significant time and dose-dependent increase in DNA damage, with respect to comet tail-length, tail arm and tail moment, as a result of ATO exposure. In regard to annexin V assay experiment, we observed an increase in annexin V positive cells undergoing early apoptosis in ATO-treated cells compared to the control, upon 2 hr of exposure. However, there was not a detection of annnexin V positive cells in ATO-treated cells compared to the control at 24 hr exposure. Based on the 24 hr cytotoxic effect of ATO to HepG2 cells, further studies are needed to elucidate the apoptotic potential of ATO to HepG2 cells. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4379.
A phase II study of gemcitabine and docetaxel therapy in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma

BACKGROUND The objectives of the current study were to evaluate the safety and efficacy of gemcitabine plus docetaxel in patients with unresectable (Stage T4 or ≥ N1) metastatic or locally advanced transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urothelial tract. METHODS A total of 27 patients were enrolled in the current multisite study, which was performed within the University of California-Los Angeles Community Oncology Research Network. The first 10 patients in the study received 800 mg/m2 of gemcitabine intravenously on Days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day treatment cycle. In addition, on Day 1, the first 10 patients received 80 mg/m2 of docetaxel intravenously after completion of the gemcitabine infusion. Because of dose-limiting toxicity (neutropenia), the initial dose of docetaxel was reduced to 60 mg/m2 for the remaining patients who entered the study (n = 17 patients). RESULTS Neutropenia was the most common adverse event that occurred in patients at the Grade 3 level (in 10 of 27 patients; 37.0%) and the Grade 4 level (in 6 of 27 patients; 22.2%). There were no other adverse events at the Grade 4 toxicity level. Twenty-five of 27 patients (92.6%) completed more than 1 cycle of combination therapy and were evaluated for antitumor responses. The frequency of objective clinical responses was 33.3% (9 of 27 patients). Complete responses to therapy were observed in 2 of 27 patients (7.4%), and partial responses were observed in 7 of 27 patients (25.9%). The median duration of response was 20 weeks (range, 12+ weeks to 152 weeks). The median survival duration was 52 weeks (range, 12 weeks to 160+ weeks). Four of 27 patients (14.8%) remained alive at the time of the current data analysis. CONCLUSIONS The results of the current study suggested that combination therapy with gemcitabine and docetaxel was an effective treatment for patients with unresectable (Stage T4 or ≥ N1) metastatic or locally advanced TCC of the urothelial tract. Gemcitabine plus docetaxel appeared to be tolerated well, and treatment-related toxicities were limited to hematologic toxicities. Because cisplatin-containing regimens are contraindicated for patients with impaired renal function, the gemcitabine plus docetaxel combination may prove to be an effective and well tolerated treatment option for these patients. Cancer 2003. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Management of the vascular patient with multisystem atherosclerosis

HE NUMBER OF patients undergoing vascular evaluations and subsequent vascular surgical procedures has risen dramatically during the last decade. We have attributed this rise to a better understanding of the natural history of the various forms of vascular disease, increasingly sophisticated diagnostic facilities, and improved surgical expertise. Many of these vascular patients have significant coexistent coronary artery disease (CAD) that can determine immediate as well as longterm postoperative outcomes. Indeed, though a patient’s quality of life may be improved by the vascular procedure alone, the management of the coexistent CAD may ultimately play a larger part in determining the longevity of the patient. It is essential that physicians who treat peripheral vascular patients be aware of the factors leading to the development of peripheral vascular disease, appropriate medical and surgical interventions, and associated risks and benefits. The treating physician must recognize the need to uncover and effectively establish the diagnosis and extent of coexistent CAD. This information then serves as a basis for determining appropriate management strategies for individual patients with isolated peripheral vascular disease and those with combined peripheral vascular and coronary artery disease. In subsequent sections, we will review the incidence, pathogenesis, diagnostic features, and therapeutic measures for three of the most common forms of vascular disease: (1) cerebrovascular insufficiency, (2) abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), and (3) ~ripheral vascular occlusive disease (PVD). We will review data that are used to establish guidelines for determining the presence and extent of CAD. In addition, we will discuss how these data are used in management decisions regarding vascular patients with minimal, moderate, and extensive CAD.
Sublethal effects of cadmium on prey choice and capture efficiency in juvenile brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis).

Prey choice in juvenile brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) was investigated under sublethal Cd stress in the presence of alternative prey types. Following 30-d exposures to either 0, 0.5, or 5.0 μg/L Cd, individual fish held in artificial stream channels were presented with both motile (Baetis tricaudatus) and nonmotile (Chironomus tentans) prey items and their foraging behavior and capture success was observed. The Cd-exposed trout were found to express a significant preference for C. tentans larvae as alternative prey to B. tricaudatus nymphs. Nevertheless, these preliminary findings indicate that, irrespective of prey choice, the capture efficiency of Cd-stressed trout declined by 20 to 55% with increasing Cd concentration when compared with control fish, and the activity of individual trout increased by 25% over controls, although these responses were not statistically significant. Cadmium significantly affected fish condition factors: The condition factor of control fish increased by 34% over the 30-d period, and Cd-exposed fish declined in condition by 12 to 18%. It is hypothesized that such a switch by fish to feeding on benthic prey under natural exposure conditions and their proximity to contaminated sediment may further exacerbate the sublethal effects of Cd on these individuals by intensifying or prolonging Cd exposure through a combination of trophic transfer and altered foraging behavior.
The effects of hydrogen ambients on electromigration kinetics in A1 2% Cu thin film conductors

Abstract Surface chemical phenomena are likely to dominate the overall behavior of a system when the majority of the mass in the system is present as surface mass. Thin film interconnections of small dimensions [Large Scale and Very Large Scale Integration (LSI and VLSI)]fall into this class due to the presence of external and internal (including grain and inter-phase boundaries) surfaces. Previous investigations have strongly suggested that the presence of H2, presumably through surface interactions, can greatly reduce electromigration damage (EMD) leading to higher reliability for device operation. Yet, no systematic studies have been reported. We have applied the Temperature-ramp Resistance Analysis to Characterize Electromigration (TRACE) technique to examine the effect of hydrogen ambients on EMD kinetics and its effect on solid-state transport and on the void morphology of A1–2% Cu thin film conductors. Systematic variation of H2 ambients of varying composition and variation of the heating rate during the TRACE experiment show that the apparent activation energy for EMD remains constant while the pre-exponent changes. The results confirm a substantial improvement in EMD resistance in H2 containing ambients. The variation in the pre-exponential is consistent with a transport process controlled by the nucleation of voids and their subsequent growth.
On Treating Athletes with Banned Substances: The Relationship Between Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Hypopituitarism, and Hormone Replacement Therapy

Until recently, the problem of traumatic brain injury in sports and the problem of performance enhancement via hormone replacement have not been seen as related issues. However, recent evidence suggests that these two problems may actually interact in complex and previously underappreciated ways. A body of recent research has shown that traumatic brain injuries (TBI), at all ranges of severity, have a negative effect upon pituitary function, which results in diminished levels of several endogenous hormones, such as growth hormone and gonadotropin. This is a cause for concern for many popular sports that have high rates of concussion, a mild form of TBI. Emerging research suggests that hormone replacement therapy is an effective treatment for TBI-related hormone deficiency. However, many athletic organizations ban or severely limit the use of hormone replacing substances because many athletes seek to use them solely for the purposes of performance enhancement. Nevertheless, in the light of the research linking traumatic brain injury to hypopituitarism, this paper argues that athletic organizations’ policies and attitudes towards hormone replacement therapy should change. We defend two claims. First, because of the connection between TBI and pituitary function, it is likely many more athletes than previously acknowledged suffer from hormone deficiency and thus could benefit from hormone replacement therapy. Second, athletes’ hormone levels should be tested more rigorously and frequently with an emphasis on monitoring TBI and TBI-related issues, rather than simply monitoring policy violations.
A task-level model for optomotor yaw regulation in drosophila melanogaster: A frequency-domain system identification approach

Fruit flies adeptly coordinate flight maneuvers to seek, avoid, or otherwise interact with salient objects in their environment. In the laboratory, tethered flies modulate yaw torque to steer towards a dark vertical visual stimulus. This stripe-fixation behavior is robust and repeatable, making it a powerful paradigm for the study of optomotor control in flies. In this work, we study stripe fixation through a series of closed-loop perturbation experiments; flies are observed stabilizing moving stripes oscillating over a range of frequencies. A system identification analysis of input-output data furnishes a frequency response function (FRF), a nonparametric description of the behavior. We parameterize this FRF description to hypothesize a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control model for the fixation behavior. Lastly, we revisit previous work in which discrepancies in open- and closed-loop performance in stripe fixation were used to support the reafference principle.We demonstrate that our hypothesized PID model (with a modest biologically plausible nonlinearity) provides a more parsimonious explanation for these previously reported discrepancies.
Second cross virial coefficients B12 for gas mixture (carbon dioxide+water) from 300 to 1000 K

Abstract Values of the second cross virial coefficient B12 for the gas mixture (carbon dioxide+water) were evaluated from a review of (p, V, T) measurements reported in the literature. Values of B12 are presented for the temperature range 300 to 1000 K. The results permit evaluation of the fugacity coefficients of the mixture components over a substantial pressure range.
Phenylarsonates of Aluminum and Gallium: Synthesis and Structural Characterization of [tBuAl(μ3-O3AsPh)]4 and [tBu2Ga(μ2-O2AsPh)]2O

The first organic-soluble phenylarsonates of aluminum and gallium, [tBuAl(μ3-O3AsPh)]4 (1) and [tBu2Ga(μ2-O2AsPh)]2O (2), have been prepared by equimolar reactions of PhAs(O)(OH)2 with tBu3Al and tBu3Ga, respectively. Compound 1 has a cubic Al4As4O12 core analogous to M4P4O12 (M = Al, Ga) double-four-ring (D4R) secondary building units in AlPO4 and GaPO4 materials. In contrast to the cubic structure of 1, the structure of compound 2 contains a bicyclic Ga2As2O5 core composed of a Ga2As2O4 eight-membered ring with an oxo bridge between the arsenic atoms.
How to train a phase-only filter

This paper establishes the equivalence of the phase only filter and a complex-valued neural network, and then shows how neural network learning can be utilized to design completely novel phase-only-filter based system. By incorporating the neural network based learning, the pattern recognition capability of the phase only type of filter under various transformation and distortions can be enhanced.
Have Processing Potato Contract Prices Kept Pace with Cost of Production? An Empirical Analysis from Idaho

Production contracts between processors and growers are commonly used in the U.S. potato industry. The ability of a grower bargaining association to negotiate a production contract with a payout price that covers increased production costs will indicate whether collective bargaining power can countervail the oligopsony market power of potato processors. This issue is examined by analyzing empirical data from Idaho from 2003 to 2008. Contract payout prices were provided by the Southern Idaho Potato Cooperative – the process growers bargaining association, while changes in cost of production were based on University of Idaho potato costs and returns estimates. Both nominal and percentage change comparisons were made for incremental (year-to-year) and cumulative changes. Percentage changes in contract payout prices were also compared to percentage changes in production costs measured by USDA’s Prices Paid Index. In only two of the 5 years, 2005 and 2007, did the increase in the contract payout price cover increased production costs. While the cumulative increase in the contract payout price was $29.10 per metric ton, or +30% from 2003 to 2008, the cumulative change in cost of production was $53.79 per metric ton, or +54% based on University of Idaho cost studies, and +50% based on USDA data. Production contract payout prices that failed to consistently cover growers’ increased production costs indicates that collective bargaining did not countervail the oligopsony market power of potato processors in Idaho.
Improved Salmonella Species Recovery from Nonfat Dry Milk Pre‐enriched Under Reduced Rehydration

Recovery of Salmonella species from nonfat dry milk was performed by the method of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), in which a 25-g sample is rapidly rehydrated in 225 ml of sterile distilled water. Recovery was improved by swirling pre-enriched samples at an initial 1:2 sample/water ratio and diluting 60 min later to a final 1:9 sample/water ratio before incubation at 35°C. In a second improved method, 25-g samples were gently added to 225-ml volumes of sterile distilled water and allowed to soak undisturbed for 60 min at room temperature before incubation. Direct comparison of the AOAC and soak methods showed that 16 and 62 Salmonella-positive samples, respectively, were detected by each of these methods. Sensitivity of the soak method did not decrease during analysis of four 100-g samples or a single 375-g sample as compared with analysis of fifteen individual 25-g samples.
In VitroAssays for Activities of Retroviral Integrase

Integration of retroviral DNA, an essential step during the retroviral life cycle, is mediated by the viral protein integrase. Simplein vitroassays for measuring integrase activities are described, including catalysis (3′-end processing, 3′-end joining, disintegration), juxtaposition of viral DNA ends, DNA binding, and target site selection. The described assays will be useful in elucidating the molecular mechanism of retroviral integration and screening for integrase inhibitors as potential anti-retroviral drugs.
Long-Term Incarceration of Female Offenders: Prison Adjustment and Coping

The characteristics, adjustment, and coping of female offenders serving three types of prison sentences were compared: (1) newly entered inmates with short sentences, (2) newly entered inmates with long sentences, and (3) inmates with long sentences who had been incarcerated for a long term. Few differences were found among the groups in demographic characteristics and prior experience with the criminal justice system. The inmate groups did appear to experience different problems and to cope with their experiences in different manners. The newly entered inmates were more apt to be members of “play” families and they were more concerned about safety. The newly entered short termers reported less control of events in the environment. Those who had served long terms in prison reported more situational problems such as boredom, missing luxuries, and lack of opportunities. There were no differences in the groups in anxiety and coping problems. The results suggest that long-term incarceration for these offender...
THE ZANDE SCHEME IN THE ANGLO-EGYPTIAN SUDAN

(1955). The Zande Scheme in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. Economic Geography: Vol. 31, No. 2, pp. 149-156.
A finite element/Fourier treatment of the Fokker-Planck equation

A method is proposed for a finite element/Fourier solution of the Fokker-Planck (FP) equation describing Coulomb collisions between particles in a fully ionized, spatially homogeneous plasma. A linearized FP equation is obtained by assuming collisions between test particles and a static background are more important than between the test particles themselves. A full 3D velocity space dependence is maintained using cylindrical coordinates ( v ? , v ? , γ ) . When a magnetic field exists, v ? is aligned with it and γ corresponds to gyroangle. Distribution functions are approximated by a Fourier representation in the azimuthal angle, γ , and by a 2D finite element representation in the parallel and perpendicular directions. The FP equation can be solved in a fully implicit manner allowing large, stable timesteps and simulations that arrive quickly at equilibrium solutions. The results of several test problems are discussed including a calculation of the resistivity of a Lorentz plasma, the heating and cooling of a test particle distribution, the slowing down of a beam of test particles and the acquisition of a perpendicular flow for a non-flowing Maxwellian test distribution. Robust convergence upon refinement of the finite element/Fourier representation is highlighted.
Analysis of the Proliferative Response to Lysophosphatidic Acid in Primary Cultures of Mammary Epithelium: Differences between Normal and Tumor Cells

The effect of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) on the proliferation of normal and tumor mouse mammary epithelial cells in primary, serum-free, collagen gel cell culture was evaluated. LPA stimulated the growth of normal mammary epithelial cells from mature virgin mice. The growth of pregnancy-dependent tumors (PDT) was generally stimulated, although the response was attenuated in some of these tumors compared to normal cells. In contrast, the growth of 70% of ovarian-independent tumors (OIT) was inhibited by LPA; the remainder were unaffected. LPA stimulated cAMP accumulation and phosphoinositide (PI) hydrolysis in normal, PDT, and OIT. Thus, the regulation of adenylyl cyclase and PI-specific phospholipase C by LPA is similar in normal and tumor cells. Pertussis toxin (PT) partially inhibited LPA-stimulated growth in normal cells but did not affect LPA-stimulated PI hydrolysis or cAMP accumulation. Thus, PT-sensitive and -insensitive proliferative pathways are activated. PT also inhibited LPA-stimulated growth of PDT but generally had no effect on the growth of OIT. These results show that the mitogenic response to LPA is attenuated in the hormone-dependent phenotype and switches to growth inhibition in hormone-independent tumors. Furthermore, LPA stimulates multiple signal transduction pathways mediated by PT-sensitive and -insensitive G proteins. The PT-sensitive pathways are not tightly coupled to the proliferative response to LPA in tumor cells. These data suggest that alterations in G protein function may occur during tumor progression.
Synthesis of switched-mode converters suitable for magnetic integration

The requirement that the voltages across the integrated-magnetic components of a converter are proportional during all switching intervals is used to develop a systematic and straightforward procedure for the synthesis and analysis of integrated-magnetic converters. The integration of magnetic components of a converter leads to low component count, low cost, high power density, high reliability, reduced component stresses, and zero-ripple-current operation. The procedure is useful not only in the derivation and study of complete classes of integrated-magnetic converters, but also in the selection of the integrated-magnetic converter most suitable for a given application and in the design of this converter with minimum component stresses, high power density, and low cost. >
Structural properties of reduced Upton montmorillonite

Reduction of octahedral Fe in the crystalline structure of smectites influences, possibly controls, surface-sensitive physical and chemical properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate if reduction of structural Fe by Na-dithionite or bacteria affects the chemical environment of constituent cations in montmorillonite, employing solid state multinuclear (29Si and 27Al) magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) spectroscopy. Reduction of structural Fe resulted in a positive (down field) chemical shift of the main Si Q3 (Q3(0Al)) site which was strongly correlated with Fe(II) content and inferred that distortions in Si-OT (T=Si, Al) bond angles and Si-O bond lengths occur with increasing layer charge. The line width (W) of the 29Si Q3 signal also increased with increasing levels of reduction. No change occurred in the position of the peak maximum for the octahedral Al (27AlVI) signal; however, an increased W was observed for this peak with increasing Fe(II) content. These results are attributed to decreases in Si-O-T bond angles and Si-O bond distances, corresponding to a better fit between the tetrahedral and octahedral sheets brought about by the presence of Fe(II) in the clay structure. The increased 27AlVI signal width (W) may also be due to a lessening of the paramagnetic influence of Fe(III) nuclei and enhancement of 27AlVI signals with different quadrupole coupling constants (QCC). Multinuclear MAS NMR analyses of dithioniteand microbially-reduced montmorillonite indicate that reduction of structural Fe caused reversible changes in the smectite structure, at least as far as this method could discern.
Proof Without Words: Viviani's Theorem with Vectors

(2003). Proof Without Words: Viviani's Theorem with Vectors. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 76, No. 3, pp. 225-225.
Performance-aware thermal management via task scheduling

High on-chip temperature impairs the processor's reliability and reduces its lifetime. Hardware-level dynamic thermal management (DTM) techniques can effectively constrain the chip temperature, but degrades the performance. We propose an OS-level technique that performs thermal-aware job scheduling to reduce DTMs. The algorithm is based on the observation that hot and cool jobs executed in a different order can make a difference in resulting temperature. Real-system implementation in Linux shows that our scheduler can remove 10.5p to 73.6p of the hardware DTMs in a medium thermal environment. The CPU throughput is improved by up to 7.6p (4.1p, on average) in a severe thermal environment.
Passive delay estimation techniques for locating acoustic emission sites in solid dielectric-metal composites

Abstract Many types of power apparatus are constructed by encapsulating metals in epoxy or other dielectric materials. The desired result is a complete impregnation and displacement of all air spaces around the metal. Voids occluded in the insulation will have partial discharge which will lead to the eventual failure of the insulation system near the void. Present quality control methods measure the electrical activity due to partial discharge. If the discharge magnitude is greater than a prescribed limit the apparatus is often scrapped because of the difficulty of determining the cause. Non-destructive techniques have been developed to locate the sites of emissions generated by partial discharge in such dielectric-metal composite structures. Insulating acoustic waveguides are mounted on the surface of the apparatus and are used to receive the acoustic emission signals propagating in the apparatus. A signal processing technique, referred to as generalized cross-correlation, is used to estimate the relative time delay between the received acoustic emissions. These time delays are then used to estimate the locations of the emission sites.
AUTOREGRESSIVE PROCESSES WITH NORMAL STATIONARY DISTRIBUTIONS

. For the strictly stationary AR(k) process Zt=Λ(Zt-1) +αt, with Λ:RkR, Zt-1= [Zt-1, Zt-2,…,Zt-k] and {αt} an independent identically distributed white noise process, we partially characterize the Λ for which the stationary distribution of Zt is normal.
NREL Smart Grid projects

Although implementing Smart Grid projects at the distribution level provides many advantages and opportunities for advanced operation and control, a number of significant challenges must be overcome to maintain the high level of safety and reliability that the modern grid must provide. For example, while distributed generation (DG) promises to provide opportunities to increase reliability and efficiency and may provide grid support services such as volt / var control, the presence of DG can impact distribution operation and protection schemes. Additionally, the intermittent nature of many DG energy sources such as photovoltaics (PV) can present a number of challenges to voltage regulation, etc.
The effect of posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction on patellofemoral contact pressures in the knee joint under simulated muscle loads.

BackgroundThe mechanism of cartilage degeneration in the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) and medial compartment of the knee following posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury remains unclear. PCL reconstruction has been recommended to restore kinematics and prevent long-term degeneration. The effect of current reconstruction techniques on PFJ contact pressures is unknown.PurposeTo measure PFJ contact pressures after PCL deficiency and reconstruction.MethodEight cadaveric knees were tested with the PCL intact, deficient, and reconstructed. Contact pressures were measured at 30 °, 60 °, 90 °, and 120 ° of flexion under simulated muscle loads. Knee kinematics were measured by a robotic testing system, and the PFJ contact pressures were measured using a thin film transducer. A single bundle achilles tendon allograft was used in the reconstruction.ResultsPCL deficiency significantly increased the peak contact pressures measured in the PFJ relative to the intact knee under both an isolated quadriceps load of 400 N a...
Musical semeiotic: a Peircean perspective

Much of the literature of musical semiotics has been based on the theories of Saussure, and thus been language-dominated. This has resulted in a stress on the signified, which can be seen in the topic theory of Leonard Ratner and Kofi Agawu. In the theory of C.S. Peirce the triad of sign, object and interpretant cannot be broken down; the sign is not a sign unless it is interpreted. Thus semeiosis is a dynamic process. The Ground (which is not equivalent to the sign vehicle), the Object, which is public, shared and prior to the sign, and the Interpretant, which is classified as Immediate, Dynamic or Final, may each be interpreted in musical terms.
Mitochondria-targeted peptide antioxidants: novel neuroprotective agents

Increasing evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress play a crucial role in the majority of neurodegenerative diseases. Mitochondria are a major source of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress. Oxidative damage to mitochondria has been shown to impair mitochondrial function and lead to cell death via apoptosis and necrosis. Because dysfunctional mitochondria will produce more ROS, a feed-forward loop is set up whereby ROS-mediated oxidative damage to mitochondria favors more ROS generation, resulting in a vicious cycle. It is now appreciated that reduction of mitochondrial oxidative stress may prevent or slow down the progression of these neurodegenerative disorders. However, if mitochondria are the major source of intracellular ROS and mitochondria are most vulnerable to oxidative damage, then it would be ideal to deliver the antioxidant therapy to mitochondria. This review will summarize the development of a novel class of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants that can protect mitochondria against oxidative stress and prevent neuronal cell death in animal models of stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Comparing caregiver and clinician predictions of fitness to drive in people with Alzheimer's disease.

This observational study investigated family caregiver and clinician ratings of 75 drivers with Alzheimer's disease against scores on a standardized road test and a naturalistic driving evaluation. Clinician ratings by a physician specialized in dementia were significantly associated with road test error scores (r =.25, p =.03) but not naturalistic driving errors or global ratings of road test and naturalistic driving performance. Caregiver ratings were unrelated to either driving assessment, with two exceptions; adult child ratings of driving ability were correlated with road test error scores (r =.43, p =.02), and spousal ratings were inversely correlated with global ratings. Clinician ratings of driving competence were modestly correlated with road test performance, but caregiver ratings were more complex. Adult children may be more accurate reporters of driving ability than spouses, possibly because of less personal bias, but the reasons behind this discrepancy need further investigation. Language: en
Declining Hospitalization Rate of Esophageal Variceal Bleeding in the United States

Background & Aims: In recent years, there have been many advances in the primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding. The aim of this study was to evaluate nationwide trends in the hospitalization rate of bleeding esophageal varices in the advent of these new modalities. In addition, our aims were to study the incidence trends of nonbleeding esophageal varices over the past 2 decades while studying hospitalization rates for cirrhosis over the same study period. Methods: The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was used for inpatient data analysis (1988–2002) and the State Ambulatory Surgery Database was used for outpatient analysis. Patients discharged with International Classification of Diseases, ninth revision, Clinical Modification discharge diagnoses related to esophageal varices were included. Results: The hospitalization rate of bleeding varices increased 13.7% from 10.9 per 100,000 in the 1988 to 1990 period to 12.4 per 100,000 in the 1994 to 1996 period ( P P P Conclusions: The hospitalization rate for bleeding esophageal varices has been on the decline in recent years and may be a reflection of the advances in primary and secondary prophylaxis. The incidence rate of nonbleeding esophageal varices is increasing and likely is owing to the increasing burden of portal hypertensive liver disease in the nation.
Implementation of the PN-Approximation for Radiative Heat Transfer on OpenFOAM

This work presents an OpenFOAM implementation of the PN approximation for radiative heat transfer, including higher orders P3, P5, and P7. Also described is a procedure which enables the sequential numerical computations of the coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) by re-expressing the boundary conditions in matrix form so that individual boundary conditions can be associated with each PDE. The implementation of the software programs are verified with derived analytical solutions for 1-D slabs with constant and variable properties, and are also tested with various orientations in order to demonstrate the geometric invariance properties of the 3-dimensional PN formulation. A few examples taken from the literature are also considered in this work and could be taken as benchmark solutions for the PN approximations.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Combination of disopyramide and mexiletine for better tolerance and additive effects for treatment of ventricular arrhythmias

The efficacy and tolerance of disopyramide and mexiletine used alone and in combination were studied in 21 patients with frequent (greater than or equal to 30/h) ventricular premature complexes. Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring was performed at baseline and during therapy with disopyramide alone, mexiletine alone and a combination of disopyramide and mexiletine. During single drug therapy, the dose of disopyramide was 602 +/- 152 mg/day and that of mexiletine was 738 +/- 144 mg/day. During combination therapy with smaller doses of disopyramide (524 +/- 134 mg/day) and mexiletine (652 +/- 146 mg/day), no patient had side effects. At baseline before therapy, the mean number of ventricular premature complexes per hour, was 608 +/- 757, of couplets per hour was 22.4 +/- 45.8 and of episodes of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia/24 h was 219.7 +/- 758.2. The mean number of ventricular premature complexes per hour was reduced to 156 +/- 217 with disopyramide alone, 188 +/- 298 with mexiletine alone and 76 +/- 144 with combination therapy (p less than 0.05 for combination therapy versus disopyramide or mexiletine alone; p = NS for disopyramide versus mexiletine). Individually, an effective regimen (greater than 83% reduction in ventricular premature complexes and abolition of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia) was found in 5 (24%) of 21 patients during therapy with disopyramide alone, in 3 (14%) receiving mexiletine alone and in 13 (62%) receiving combination therapy (p less than 0.05 for combination therapy versus disopyramide or mexiletine; p = NS for disopyramide versus mexiletine). Thus, the antiarrhythmic effects of disopyramide and mexiletine are additive.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Filling-in of visual phantoms in the human brain

The constructive nature of perception can be demonstrated under viewing conditions that lead to vivid subjective impressions in the absence of direct input. When a low-contrast moving grating is divided by a large gap, observers report seeing a 'visual phantom' of the real grating extending through the blank gap region. Here, we report fMRI evidence showing that visual phantoms lead to enhanced activity in early visual areas that specifically represent the blank gap region. We found that neural filling-in effects occurred automatically in areas V1 and V2, regardless of where the subject attended. Moreover, when phantom-inducing gratings were paired with competing stimuli in a binocular rivalry display, subjects reported spontaneous fluctuations in conscious perception of the phantom accompanied by tightly coupled changes in early visual activity. Our results indicate that phantom visual experiences are closely linked to automatic filling-in of activity at the earliest stages of cortical processing.
Hypoglossal nerve palsy after tooth extraction

A rare complication involving hypoglossal nerve paralysis after extraction of third molars is reported. The possible pathophysiology of the condition is discussed. The paralysis was temporary and resolved within one week of surgery.
Translating pharmacogenomics discoveries into the clinic: An implementation framework

The implementation of pharmacogenomics-guided care has the potential to improve clinical outcomes; however, the adoption of pharmacogenomics into clinical practice remains slow. This is partly due to the lack of a standardized framework for translating key findings into diagnostic tests. A recent study describes a comprehensive system developed by the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative for facilitating the translation of genomic findings into clinical practice, and its application for seven commonly prescribed drugs.
National variation in costs and mortality for leukodystrophy patients in US children's hospitals.

Abstract Background Inherited leukodystrophies are progressive, debilitating neurological disorders with few treatment options and high mortality rates. Our objective was to determine national variation in the costs for leukodystrophy patients and to evaluate differences in their care. Methods We developed an algorithm to identify inherited leukodystrophy patients in deidentified data sets using a recursive tree model based on International Classification of Disease, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification, diagnosis and procedure charge codes. Validation of the algorithm was performed independently at two institutions, and with data from the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) of 43 US children's hospitals, for a 7-year period between 2004 and 2010. Results A recursive algorithm was developed and validated, based on six International Classification of Disease, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification, codes and one procedure code that had a sensitivity up to 90% (range 61-90%) and a specificity up to 99% (range 53-99%) for identifying inherited leukodystrophy patients. Inherited leukodystrophy patients comprise 0.4% of admissions to children's hospitals and 0.7% of costs. During 7 years, these patients required $411 million of hospital care, or $131,000/patient. Hospital costs for leukodystrophy patients varied at different institutions, ranging from two to 15 times more than the average pediatric patient. There was a statistically significant correlation between higher volume and increased cost efficiency. Increased mortality rates had an inverse relationship with increased patient volume that was not statistically significant. Conclusions We developed and validated a code-based algorithm for identifying leukodystrophy patients in deidentified national datasets. Leukodystrophy patients account for $59 million of costs yearly at children's hospitals. Our data highlight potential to reduce unwarranted variability and improve patient care.
Nonlinear domain wall motion in magnetic thin films

A calculation of the wall-motion response in thin films which combines Walker's dynamic theory with a conservative wall coercive force interaction has been done. The results are compared with recent wall motion data for Permalloy films. The comparison shows that the observed nonlinear response cannot be explained by these two factors alone. A more sophisticated analysis of wall motion in a conservative potential is needed. Relaxation effects may provide an alternate explanation of the nonlinear behavior.
Hemolysis after Mitral Valve Repair

Hemolysis is a potential complication of mitral valve repair. We report a case of hemolytic anemia after mitral valve repair successfully treated with re-repair, and review the literature on reoperation after failure of mitral valve repair with associated hemolysis.
Letter by Chhabra and Spodick Regarding Article, “Clinical Profile and Influences on Outcomes in Patients Hospitalized for Acute Pericarditis”

We read with interest the commendable work by Kyto et al1 in which they studied the age- and sex-based association of clinical characteristics and outcomes in hospitalized patients with acute pericarditis. The study reports a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation in female patients with acute pericarditis, which appears to be a strikingly notable finding. However, the authors have not discussed their reasoning for this observed finding. It is worth emphasizing that pericarditis by itself …
Application of Adaptive QM/MM Methods to Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Aqueous Systems

The difference-based adaptive solvation quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (adQM/MM) method (J. Chem. Theory Comput.2009, 5, 2212) as implemented in the Amber software was applied to the study of several chemical processes in solution. The adQM/MM method is based on an efficient selection scheme that enables quantum-mechanical treatment of the active region of a molecular system in solution taking explicitly into account diffusion of solvent molecules between the QM and the MM regions. Specifically, adQM/MM molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to characterize (1) the free energy profiles of halide exchange SN2 reactions in water, (2) the hydration structure of the Cl(-) ion, and (3) the solvation structure of the zwitterionic form of glycine in water. A comparison is made with the results obtained using standard MM and QM/MM methods as well as with the available fully QM and experimental data. In all cases, it is shown that the adaptive QM/MM simulations provide a physically realistic description of the system of interest.
Asthma Self-Management Goals, Beliefs and Behaviors of Urban African American Adolescents Prior to Transitioning to Adult Health Care

Adolescence is a unique time of development incorporating a transition from child centered to adult centered health care. This transition period can be particularly challenging for individuals with a chronic disease such as asthma. Inadequate transition planning during adolescence may place an already vulnerable population such as African American adolescents with known health disparities in asthma prevalence, morbidity and mortality at risk for a continuation of poor health outcomes across the lifespan. Central to transition planning for these youth is the core element of developing and prioritizing goals. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the asthma self-management goals, beliefs and behaviors of urban African American adolescents prior to transitioning from pediatric to adult health care. Methods A focus group composed of 13 African American adolescents with asthma ages 14–18 years from an urban population was conducted. Responses from transcripts and field notes were reviewed using an iterative process to best characterize asthma self-management goals and beliefs that emerged. Results Four core themes were identified: 1) medication self-management, 2) social support, 3) independence vs. interdependence, and 4) self-advocacy. Medication self-management included subthemes of rescue medications, controller medications and medication avoidance. The social support theme included three subthemes: peer support, caregiver support and healthcare provider support. Conclusion Findings suggest that adolescents with asthma form both short term and long term goals. Their goals indicated a need for guided support to facilitate a successful health care transition.