cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Federal Policies and Indian Politics

T he notion of tribal autonomy as the proper condition of American Indian communities is as old as the first Indian uprising. As a serious goal of government policy, the concept of self-rule was introduced in this century with the inauguration of the Indian New Deal in 1934. Since then, advocacy of tribal autonomy has been associated with liberal spending in support of those paradoxical "dependent sovereign nations" with which Washington has maintained a trustee-ward relationship. Disinterested in paradoxes, critics of Indian self-rule have usually argued against keeping federal trustee commitments and in favor of assimilationist programs.
Peripheral Blood Invariant Natural Killer T Cells of Pig-Tailed Macaques

In humans, invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells represent a small but significant population of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with a high degree of variability. In this study, pursuant to our goal of identifying an appropriate non-human primate model suitable for pre-clinical glycolipid testing, we evaluated the percentage and function of iNKT cells in the peripheral blood of pig-tailed macaques. First, using a human CD1d-tetramer loaded with α-GalCer (α-GalCer-CD1d-Tet), we found that α-GalCer-CD1d-Tet+ CD3+ iNKT cells make up 0.13% to 0.4% of pig-tailed macaque PBMCs, which are comparable to the percentage of iNKT cells found in human PBMCs. Second, we observed that a large proportion of Vα24+CD3+ cells are α-GalCer-CD1d-Tet+CD3+ iNKT cells, which primarily consist of either the CD4+ or CD8+ subpopulation. Third, we found that pig-tailed macaque iNKT cells produce IFN-γ in response to α-GalCer, as shown by ELISpot assay and intracellular cytokine staining (ICCS), as well as TNF-α, as shown by ICCS, indicating that these iNKT cells are fully functional. Interestingly, the majority of pig-tailed macaque iNKT cells that secrete IFN-γ are CD8+ iNKT cells. Based on these findings, we conclude that the pig-tailed macaques exhibit potential as a non-human animal model for the pre-clinical testing of iNKT-stimulating glycolipids.
Effect of 3 months frozen-storage on organic acid contents and sensory properties, and their correlations in soft goat milk cheese

Abstract Organic acid concentrations and sensory properties, and correlations between the two parameters for soft goat milk cheeses were evaluated throughout 3 months of frozen-storage. Three different lots of commercial soft goat cheeses were purchased, and subdivided into three equal portions. One portion was stored at 4 °C as the non-frozen control and the other two were immediately frozen (−20 °C) for 0 and 3 months, then subsequently thawed the next day at 4 °C and stored at 4 °C for 0, 14 and 28 days. Organic acids were analyzed using a HPLC (Hewlett Packard; LC-1100 Series). Descriptive sensory properties were evaluated by a trained panel, and flavors and tastes were scored on a 10-point Spectrum™ intensity scale. Results showed that tartaric, citric, uric and propionic acids in the soft goat cheese tended to increase after 3 months frozen-storage, while formic and malic acids decreased, and pyruvic acid was absent. Initial sensory properties of goat cheeses through 3 months frozen-storage were not changed in comparison of non-frozen fresh cheeses. However, cooked/milky, whey, milkfat, diacetyl and sweet, sour, and salty tastes diminished with prolonged refrigerated aging time for all frozen-storage regimes, while brothy, yeasty, and oxidized flavors increased. Some correlations (r) between organic acids and sensory properties were observed, including r-values between tartaric acid and goaty/waxy flavor, formic acid and sour taste, malic acid and cooked milky flavor, acetic acid and saltiness, citric acid and whey flavor, propionic and brothy or oxidized flavor, and some unknown acids with milk fat lactone flavor.
The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Program

The CAIA Association is sponsored by the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA) and the Center for International Securities and Derivatives Markets (CISDM)—two organizations providing global leadership for alternative investment professionals by setting the highest standards in alternative investment education, professional conduct, and advocacy programs. The CAIA program is designed to promote and maintain professional standards for those employed or engaged in the alternative investments industry. The program facilitates both personal and professional development through education and certification. A goal of the CAIA program is to become the standard professional credential in the field of alternative investments and to have the CAIA designation serve as an independent and external validation of competence for all participants in alternative investment markets. The designation appeals broadly to hedge fund managers, managed futures advisors, real estate, private equity, and venture capital managers, institutional investors, and other professionals in the area of alternative investments. Like many charter programs in finance and accounting, the CAIA designation is structured as long-distance education and requires candidates to accumulate a level of knowledge necessary to implement various aspects of alternative investment decision-making, both from the buy side and from the sell side. This level of knowledge includes, but is not limited to, asset allocation among traditional and alternative investments, benchmarking, manager, strategy, and asset selection, and legal and qualitative differences between different alternative investment strategies and structures. In order to obtain the CAIA designation a candidate must pass both levels of CAIA exams, hold a bachelor’s or an equivalent degree, fulfill the CAIA Association membership requirements, and apply concurrently for membership in the CAIA Association. The Web Review
Laser diagnostics of soot precursors in a heavy-duty diesel engine at low-temperature combustion conditions

Abstract To better understand in-cylinder soot formation processes for modern, low-emissions, low-temperature combustion (LTC) operating conditions in diesel engines, soot and its precursors are imaged by laser diagnostics in a heavy duty optical engine. Virtually simultaneous images of planar laser-induced incandescence of soot (soot-PLII) using 1064 nm excitation and combined soot-PLII and planar laser-induced fluorescence of poly-cyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH-PLIF) using 532 nm excitation reveal the temporal and spatial evolution of soot and its precursors during combustion. With increasing dilution of the intake air stream by various levels of nitrogen to simulate the use of exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) to achieve LTC, the residence time of PAH increases as soot formation is delayed. At zero dilution (21% intake oxygen), soot appears nearly simultaneously with PAH, while at higher dilution (12.7% or 9.5% intake oxygen), soot formation is delayed by hundreds of microseconds to a millisecond or more. At all dilution levels, at its onset, PAH rapidly fills most of the downstream cross-section of the jet, with a relatively uniform fluorescence intensity distribution. The spatial evolution of soot, however, shifts from a relatively rapid filling of the downstream head of the jet at low dilution, to inception at the midstream periphery of the jet followed by a gradual progression downstream at high dilution. Effects of fuel-bound aromatics are also explored by comparing soot and PAH formation for a representative diesel fuel containing 27% aromatics by weight to that for neat n-heptane. The residence time of PAH before the onset of soot is slightly longer with the non-aromatic fuel, but otherwise the spatial and temporal evolution of PAH-PLIF and soot-PLII are indistinguishable from that of the diesel fuel at LTC conditions. Spectral analysis shows a characteristic soot emission spectra from 1064 nm excitation, while 532 nm excitation yields significant short-wavelength emission that cannot be attributed solely to soot incandescence, and is likely due to fluorescence of large PAH soot precursors. No narrow spectral features, such as from C2 or C3 emission, are apparent in the spectra, even at high laser fluence.
Photoelectron Spectroscopic Study of the Interaction of Thin Fe Films with the MoS2(0001) Surface.

Abstract The Fe/MoS2(0001) interface has been studied by high-resolution photoelectron spectroscopy using synchrotron radiation. The evolution of the Mo3d, Fe3p, and S2p core levels and of the valence band spectra (hν = 152 eV) during growth of vapor-deposited Fe films (1–10 A) indicates the production of sulfur vacancy defects in the MoS2(0001) surface. Several submonolayer sulfur surface species were formed, including sulfur adsorbed on the Fe surface and a reacted Fe-S species. The MoS2 surface was found to be covered for Fe film thicknesses of ~10 A. Annealing a 10 A film to 600 K resulted in the Fe film beginning to agglomerate, while annealing to 700–900 K resulted in further agglomeration of the Fe film. Annealing to 700–900 K also resulted in reformation of a partially disordered MoS2(0001)-1 × 1 surface with ~5% defects, as determined from photoelectron spectroscopy and low-energy electron diffraction. The overlayer film remained primarily in the form of metallic Fe, before and after annealing to temperatures ≲ 900 K, which was shown by the behavior of the Fe3p core level spectra and valence band spectra. Annealing the sample to 1200 K resulted in decomposition of the MoS2(0001) surface. The results indicate that the Fe/MoS2(0001) system exhibits some interfacial reactivity but does not form bulk Fe-S compounds. The results have been compared to those of previous studies of the Fe/MoS2(0001) system.
The ecology of climate change and infectious diseases: comment

interannual variability, and that, ideally, NPP data for each of the corresponding years would be highly useful. But the focus of our paper was on how mean climate influences the spatial patterns of mean NPP and believe that the best approach was to use 30-year mean climate data consistently, regardless of the time scale during which NPP was measured. As a second anonymous reviewer remarked, mean climate is correlated to direct and indirect controls on NPP (e.g., rates of nutrient cycling and nutrient availability) and it is highly unlikely that the climate/NPP data mismatch would lead to systematic biases in the data. However, we should have qualified the climate change induced NPP projections using the NCEAS model because the model is based on spatial patterns of mean climate but the projections were based on fluctuations in annual climate. This is potentially a problem because the approach we used assumes that the systems are in equilibrium, which is not correct under changing climate. We regret not pointing out that the NPP changes through the 20th century generated by the NCEAS model may be exaggerated because the systems are not in equilibrium. The extent of this exaggeration is uncertain because we do not know how much time it takes for other controls on NPP, such is N inputs and soil nutrient levels, to equilibrate with changes in climate. In closing, we agree with Shoo and Ramirez (2010) that "a tiered analytical approach that will enable short term processes to be disentangled from long term processes" is a worthy recommendation and such analyses would help unravel the spatial and temporal controls on NPP. Historically, dates of measurements have generally been lacking in the documentation of NPP estimates which makes it difficult to match such NPP measurements to the appropriate climate. Conse quently, we advocate better documentation of NPP measurements in the future and comprehensive efforts such as the National Ecological Observatory Network (Keller et al. 2008) designed to assess temporal and spatial patterns, controls, and interactions among NPP, climate, and other ecological response and driving variables.
A visualization tool for parallel and distributed computing using the Lilith framework

The authors present a visualization tool for the monitoring and debugging of codes run in a parallel and distributed computing environment, called Lilith Lights. This tool can be used both for debugging parallel codes as well as for resource management of clusters. It was developed under Lilith, a framework for creating scalable software tools for distributed computing. The use of Lilith provides scalable, non-invasive debugging, as opposed to other commonly used software debugging and visualization tools. Furthermore, by implementing the visualization tool in software rather than in hardware (as available on some MPPs), Lilith Lights is easily transferable to other machines, and well adapted for use on distributed clusters of machines. The information provided in a clustered environment can further be used for resource management of the cluster. In this paper, they introduce Lilith Lights, discussing its use on the Computational Plant cluster at Sandia National Laboratories, show its design and development under the Lilith framework, and present metrics for resource use and performance.
Use of antibody induction in pediatric renal transplantation.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The present review provides an update on the recent literature documenting the use of antibody induction in pediatric transplantation. RECENT FINDINGS The use of antibody induction has been increasing as it has been considered to be an important component of steroid-avoidance protocols following pediatric renal transplantation. According to registry data, anti-interleukin-2R monoclonal antibodies are the predominant agents being used, with slightly more patients receiving basiliximab than daclizumab. Using antibody induction, steroid avoidance is possible while maintaining rejection rates of less than 10%. Preliminary data are appearing, in which both steroid elimination and calcineurin reduction are possible. Concerns, however, are being raised about the risk of overimmunosuppression, in particular increased rates of polyoma virus and lymphoma. SUMMARY Antibody induction is firmly entrenched within the pediatric renal transplant community. There is an ongoing evolution of the types of antibodies being used. The ultimate answer for efficacy and safety will require larger samples and prospective studies.
The cosmological constant as a canonical variable

Abstract We analyze the hamiltonian dynamics of the gravitational field coupled to a three-index antisymmetric abelian gauge field. This is the simplest model in which the cosmological constant appears as a constant of the motion rather than as a universal constant. A set of boundary conditions is indicated under which the (negative) cosmological constant can be consistently varied in the action. In order for this to be possible, it is necessary to couple the asymptotic O(3, 2) spacetime symmetry with the internal symmetry of the gauge field. In the present formalism, anti-de Sitter spaces with different radii of curvature appear as different states of a unique system and their properties can therefore be compared. In particular, it can be seen that they all have the same “energy”.
Time scales of phonon-induced decoherence of semiconductor spin qubits

Decoherence of a shallow donor electron spin in Si and Ge caused by electron-lattice interaction is studied. We find that there are two time scales associated with the evolution of the electron spin density matrix: the fast, but incomplete decay due to the interaction with nonresonant phonons, followed by slow relaxation resulting from spin flips accompanied by resonant phonon emission. We estimate both time scales, as well as the magnitude of the initial drop of coherence for P donor in Si and Ge, and argue that the approach used in the paper is suitable for evaluation of decoherence for a general class of localized spin states in semiconductors.
Spatially and spectrally varying guided mode resonant filter by modifying the waveguide layer

In this paper, we will present the concept, fabrication methods, and simulation results of a novel type of Graded Transmissivity Optic based on a space variant Guided Mode Resonance Filter (GMRF). This GMRF comprised of a single dielectric layer deposited on a transparent substrate. The layer is PECVD grown Silicon Nitrirde with a subwavelength grating (SWG) partially etched through it. The unetched portion of the layer is termed the waveguiding region. When light is incident upon the GMRF at the resonant wavelength, the SWG couples light into a waveguide mode. However, due to the SWG on the waveguide, this mode is leaky and re-couples the light back towards the source. The resonance of the GMRF is a function of the optical properties of the materials used; the thickness of the dielectric layers; and the period and fill-fraction of the SWG. The resonance will change across the device by slowly varying the thickness of the waveguiding layer. Previous work has varied the resonance across the structure by varying the fill fraction of the grating. The methods involved in the previous work made that process usable for only a very narrow range of wavelengths, however this new method will be scalable to a larger wavelength range. The waveguiding layer will be sculpted using Additive Lithography and ICP etching. Afterwards the SWG will be patterned into the Silicon Nitride Layer.
The index of likeness as a mathematical function of the indices of cohesion for roll call voting

Stuart Rice's index of cohesion and index of likeness for roll call voting are perhaps the most established mathematical measures in political science. These indices, quantitatively precise and intuitively plausible, are accepted by nonmathematical as well as mathematical political scientists. Rice himself (and subsequent scholars so far as we are aware) presented and used these measures as if they were independent. The measures, however, are never independent. This note derives four theorems which exactly specify their dependence.
Free fatty acids are associated with insulin resistance but not coronary artery atherosclerosis in rheumatoid arthritis

Background Free fatty acids (FFAs) affect insulin signaling and are implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) increase lipolysis and thus levels of FFAs. We hypothesized that increased IL-6 concentrations are associated with increased FFAs resulting in insulin resistance and atherosclerosis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Process dominance shift in solute chemistry as revealed by long-term high-frequency water chemistry observations of groundwater flowing through weathered argillite underlying a steep forested hillslope

Significant solute flux from the weathered bedrock zone – which underlies soils and saprolite – has been suggested by many studies. However, controlling processes for the hydrochemistry dynamics in this zone are poorly understood. This work reports the first results from a four-year (2009–2012) high-frequency (1–3 day) monitoring of major solutes (Ca, Mg, Na, K and Si) in the perched, dynamic groundwater in a 4000 m2 zero-order basin located at the Angelo Coast Range Reserve, Northern California. Groundwater samples were autonomously collected at three wells (downslope, mid-slope, and upslope) aligned with the axis of the drainage. Rain and throughfall samples, profiles of well headspace pCO2, vertical profiles and time series of groundwater temperature, and contemporaneous data from an extensive hydrologic and climate sensor network provided the framework for data analysis. All runoff at this soil-mantled site occurs by vertical unsaturated flow through a 5–25 m thick weathered argillite and then by lateral flows to the adjacent channel as groundwater perched over fresher bedrock. Driven by strongly seasonal rainfall, over each of the four years of observations, the hydrochemistry of the groundwater at each well repeats an annual cycle, which can be explained by two end-member processes. The first end-member process, which dominates during the winter high-flow season in mid- and upslope areas, is CO2 enhanced cation exchange reaction in the vadose zone in the more shallow conductive weathered bedrock. This process rapidly increases the cation concentrations of the infiltrated rainwater, which is responsible for the lowest cation concentration of groundwater. The second-end member process occurs in the deeper perched groundwater and either dominates year-round (at the downslope well) or becomes progressively dominant during low flow season at the two upper slope wells. This process is the equilibrium reaction with minerals such as calcite and clay minerals, but not with primary minerals, suggesting the critical role of the residence time of the water. Collectively, our measurements reveal that the hydrochemistry dynamics of the groundwater in the weathered bedrock zone is governed by two end-member processes whose dominance varies with critical zone structure, the relative importance of vadose versus groundwater zone processes, and thus with the seasonal variation of the chemistry of recharge and runoff.
The photooxidation of glyoxylate by envelope-free spinach chloroplasts and its relation to photorespiration

Abstract Large quantities of CO2 are released within many photosynthesizing tissues in the light by the process of photorespiration. This CO2 arises largely from the carboxylcarbon atom of glycolate, which is synthesized in chloroplasts during photosynthesis. Glyoxylate is then produced by the glycolate oxidase reaction. The glyoxylate may be directly decarboxylated to CO2, but some investigators believe the glyoxylate must first be converted to glycine before CO2 is released during photorespiration. Spinach chloroplasts with their envelope membranes removed in dilute buffer solution have now been shown to carry out the oxidative decarboxylation of [1-14C]glyoxylate, in the presence of light and manganous ions in an atmosphere containing oxygen, to yield 1 mole each of 14CO2 and formate. Rates of enzymatic decarboxylation exceeding 50 μmoles of 14CO2 mg chlorophyll−1 hr−1 were obtained at pH 7.6; hydrogen peroxide is probably the oxidant in the reaction. Heated chloroplasts are inactive under the standard conditions and there is an almost absolute requirement for each of the components listed above. Conditions for some other nonenzymatic decarboxylations of glyoxylate have also been described. [1-14C]Glycine is decarboxylated by the enzymatic system at only 1% of the rate of [1-14C]glyoxylate. Maize chloroplast preparations are much less active than spinach chloroplasts. The high rates of CO2 produced by the spinach system directly from glyoxylate, as well as the need for light and oxygen, suggest that this reaction functions in photorespiration, and that CO2 arises during photorespiration without glycine as a mandatory intermediate.
Silicon Carbide Solar Receiver for Residential Scale Concentrated Solar Power

The benefits of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems include the ability to use them in combined cycles such as Combined Cooling Heat and Power (CCHP), and direct AC power generation. While this is done with success for utility scale power production, there are currently no systems offering this for residential scale, distributable power systems. In prior research, a low-cost high-temperature cavity receiver for a wide variety of applications was developed by employing silicon carbide [1]. The proposed design takes advantage of exclusive manufacturing techniques for ceramics such as machining in the green state and sintering multiple simple parts together to form a single complex part. Serious consideration has gone into designing a receiver that will be universally compatible with a number of applications. Some applications include using the receiver in a combined cycle power generation, as a chemical reactor, or for combined heat and power. The focus of this research is to analyze system metrics for a CCHP dish-Brayton system that is feasible for residential scale use. Preliminary research shows that an adequately sized system could provide a single family home with 2.5 kW of electricity and another 7 kW of process heating that could be used for absorption chilling or hot water and space heating. Cost analysis on the system will be performed to quantify its economic viability. Results on the analysis for multiple process heating applications will be presented along with the proposed design.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Approaches to the development of medications for the treatment of methamphetamine dependence.

Background Methamphetamine abuse has become an increasing problem in both the United States and globally with concomitant increases in adverse medical, social and environmental sequelae. Behavioral therapies have been used with some success to treat methamphetamine abusers and dependent individuals, but are not universally efficacious. Methamphetamine has a rich pharmacology that theoretically provides many opportunities for potential pharmacotherapeutic intervention. Nevertheless, there are no approved medications with an indication for treating methamphetamine abusers or addicts at this time. Aim To describe briefly how methamphetamine functions and affects function in brain and report how basic researchers and clinicians are attempting to exploit and exploiting this knowledge to discover and develop effective pharmacotherapies. Results Scientifically based approaches to medications development by evaluating medications that limit brain exposure to methamphetamine; modulate methamphetamine effects at vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT-2); or affect dopaminergic, serotonergic, GABAergic, and/or glutamatergic brain pathways that participate in methamphetamine's reinforcing effects are presented. Conclusion The evidence supports the rationale that pharmacotherapies to decrease methamphetamine use, or reduce craving during abstinence may be developed from altering the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of methamphetamine or its effects on appetitive systems in the brain.
Frequency, complexity, and clarity as covariates of observer reliability

Factors affecting interobserver agreement (reliability) with a comprehensive coding system in the naturalistic observation of children were examined. Data from 117 pairs of observations on 35 children and their families were examined with respect to reliability and three possible covariates: response frequency, observation complexity, and code definition clarity. Analysis of results strongly supported response frequency as a positive covariate of interobserver agreement. Complexity was found to negatively covary with interobserver agreement. The relationship between code clarity and reliability was in the predicted direction but failed to obtain statistical significance. Implications for observer training and data collection in observational studies are discussed.
A House Dividing: Economic Development in Pennsylvania and Virginia Before the Civil War

Acknowledgments Introduction: Regional Development in Comparative Perspective 1. Developmental corporations in a slave-labor society 2. Developmental corporations in a free-labor society 3. Railroads and local development 4. The local politics of market development 5. Urban capital and the superiority of Pennsylvania's transportation network 6. Why Antebellum Virginians never developed a big city Epilogue Appendix Bibliography Index.
Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy: Role in Treatment of Liver Metastases

There is a wide variety of minimally invasive tumor ablation technologies available for the management of liver tumors, including liver metastases. These treatments offer an alternative to surgical intervention in non-surgical candidates. The most commonly used ablation modalities make use of extreme heat to induce tumor necrosis. Although radiation has traditionally held a minor role in treatment of liver tumors, high-dose hypofractionated irradiation typically delivered with image-guidance is a new treatment modality with promising early results. This article will review the fundamental principles of ablative radiation therapy, compare it with other existing ablation technologies, and review early clinical results.
Screening behaviors and cultural barriers in women with newly diagnosed cervical cancer.

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the screening histories and compare barriers to screening between women with newly diagnosed early-stage cervical cancer versus advanced stage cervical cancer. Materials and methods Between August 2010 and August 2011, women with invasive cervical cancer were identified at a single urban academic referral center and surveyed regarding access to health care, screening history, and barriers to screening services. The following 2 groups were identified: women with early-stage disease (ESD) (stages 1A1-1B2) and women with advanced-stage disease (ASD) (stages IIA-IV). Results A total of 65 women were enrolled. Thirty-eight women (58%) had ESD, and 27 (42%) had ASD. Patients with ESD had an average time since last Pap smear of 5.4 years compared with 10.7 years in patients with ASD (p = .014). Ten patients (26%) with ESD had screening histories compliant with recommendations compared with 0 patients (0%) with ASD (p = .004). Seventeen (45%) of 38 patients with ESD and 8 (30%) of 27 patients with ASD reported no barriers to accessing screening (p = nonsignificant [NS]). Financial difficulties were the most common barrier in 12 women with ESD (32%) and 7 women with ASD (41%) (p = NS). High levels of family support were noted in both groups (74% and 70%, p = NS). Conclusions Time since last Pap smear varied significantly in women with early versus advanced cervical cancer. Women with compliant screening histories still developed invasive cervical cancer, but none presented at an advanced stage. There were no significant differences in specific barriers to accessing health care and screening services between women with ESD compared with ASD. More than one third of patients reported no barriers to care, suggesting a need for improved awareness of screening recommendations.
Recent developments in the use of differential scanning fluorometry in protein and small molecule discovery and characterization

Introduction: Despite tremendous advances in the application of biophysical methods in drug discovery, the preponderance of instruments and techniques still require sophisticated analyses by dedicated personnel and/or large amounts of frequently hard-to-produce proteins. A technique which carries the promise of simplicity and relatively low protein consumption is the differential scanning fluorometry (DSF). This technique monitors protein through the use of environmentally sensitive fluorescent dye, in a temperature-ramp regime by observing the gradual exposure to the solvent of otherwise buried hydrophobic faces of protein domains. Areas covered: This review describes recent developments in the field of DSF. This article pays a particular emphasis on the advances published during the 2010 – 2013 period. Expert opinion: There has been a significant diversification of DSF applications beyond initial small molecule discovery into areas such as protein therapeutic development, formulation studies and various...
Risk factors associated with infections and need for permanent cerebrospinal fluid diversion in pediatric intensive care patients with externalized ventricular drains

Externalized ventricular drains (EVDs) are commonly used in pediatric intensive care units (PICU) but few data are available regarding infection rates, infection risks, or factors associated with conversion to permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion. Retrospective observational study of patients managed with EVDs admitted to a tertiary care PICU from January 2005 to December 2009. Three hundred eighty patients were identified. Neurologic diagnostic groups were externalization of existing shunt in 196 patients (52 %), brain tumor in 122 patients (32 %), intracranial hemorrhage in 23 patients (6 %), traumatic brain injury in 17 patients (5 %), meningitis in 9 patients (2 %), or other in 13 patients (3 %). Six percent of all patients (24/380) had new infections associated with EVD management for an infection rate of 8.6 per 1,000 catheter days. The median time to positive cultures was 7 days (interquartile range 4.75, 9) after EVD placement. Patients with EVD infections had significantly longer EVD duration 6 versus 11.5 days (p = 0.0001), and higher maximum EVD outputs 1.9 versus 1.5 mL/kg/h (p = 0.0017). Need for permanent CSF diversion was associated with higher maximum EVD drainage (1.3 vs. 1.6 mL/kg/h p < 0.0001), longer EVD duration (5 vs. 4 days, p < 0.005), and younger age (4.5 vs. 8 years, p < 0.02) but not intracranial hypertension (72 vs. 82 % of patients, p = 0.4). In our large pediatric cohort, EVD infections were associated with longer EVD duration and higher maximum EVD output. Permanent CSF diversion was more likely in patients with higher maximum EVD drainage, longer EVD duration, and younger age.
On the design of reliable networks

This paper is concerned with construction of graphs, with n vertices and m edges, whose connectivity r = [2m/n] ≧ 3, and have no more than n minimum vertex cut-sets. Frank's results imply that this is an important step in the design of a class of reliable networks.
Dynamic Analysis of the Joined-Wing Configuration in High-Altitude Long-Endurance Aircraft Using Fluid-Structure Interaction Model

Recent studies of the joined-wing configuration of the High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft have been performed by analyzing the aerodynamic and structural behaviors separately. In the present work, a fluid-structure interaction (FSI) analysis is performed, where the fluid pressure on the wing, and the corresponding non-linear structural deformation, are analyzed simultaneously using a finite-element matrix which couples both fluid and structural solution vectors. An unsteady, viscous flow past the high-aspect ratio wing causes it to undergo large deflections, thus changing the domain shape at each time step. The finite element software ANSYS 11.0 is used for the structural analysis and CFX 11.0 is used for the fluid analysis. The structural mesh of the semi-monocoque joined-wing consists of finite elements to model the skin panel, ribs and spars. Appropriate mass and stress distributions are applied across the joined-wing structure [Kaloyanova et al. (2005)], which has been optimized in order to reduce global and local buckling. The fluid region is meshed with very high mesh density at the fluid-structure interface and where flow separation is predicted across the joint of the wing. The FSI module uses a sequentially-coupled finite element equation, where the main coupling matrix utilizes the direction of the normal vector defined for each pair of coincident fluid and structural element faces at the interface [ANSYS 11.0 Documentation]. The k-omega turbulence model captures the fine-scale turbulence effects in the flow. An angle of attack of 12°, at a Mach number of 0.6 [Rangarajan et al. (2003)], is used in the simulation. A 1-way FSI analysis has been performed to verify the proper transfer of loads across the fluid-structure interface. The CFX pressure results on the wing were transferred across the comparatively coarser mesh on the structural surface. A maximum deflection of 16 ft is found at the wing tip with a calculated lift coefficient of 1.35. The results have been compared with the previous study and have proven to be highly accurate. This will be taken as the first step for the 2-way simulation. The effect of a coupled 2-way FSI analysis on the HALE aircraft joined wing configuration will be shown. The structural deformation history will be presented, showing the displacement of the joined-wing, along the wing span over a period of aerodynamic loading. The fluid-structure interface meshing and the convergence at each time step, based on the quantities transferred across the interface will also be discussed.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Turbulent structures in the trailing vortex wake of a delta wing

Abstract In the present study, we investigate the near- and far-wake instabilities in the wake of a delta wing with a view to understanding the basic instabilities, mixing, and decay rate of the wake. Extensive visualization of the wake as a delta wing glides in free flight through water reveals a “braid wake” between the primary vortex pair and shows it imposing its structure on the primary pair. Hot-wire measurements of the fluctuating velocity in the immediate near wake not only demonstrate the periodic shedding of the spanwise vortices in this “braid wake”, but also reveal a low-frequency oscillation nearer to the core of each primary vortex. The subsequent evolution of the wake is remarkable, as the scales of disturbances grow in what appear to be almost discrete steps, until a large-scale instability of the primary pair develops into a sequence of large-scale interconnecting vortex loops. Ultimately, the appearance is similar to a series of vortex rings. The streamwise wavelength of the ring-like structure was measured for these free-flight tests and for tests with the wing towed through water at a variety of speeds and angles of attack, yielding a wavelength between 4 and 5 spans (intervortex spacing of the primary pair). Further investigation is required before the relation of these results to theoretical analyses can be ascertained. Experiments in which the incident velocity is perturbed at selected wavelength and amplitude reveal that the wavelength of the final structure is reasonably insensitive to either parameter unless the forcing becomes as large as 5% of free-stream velocity, provided the forcing wavelength is far from the natural wavelength. While investigating the vertical mixing of the fluid due to the descending vortices, we found that the vertical extent of mixing is surprisingly large owing to the formation of a “curtain” of vortical fluid left above the descending vortex pair.
Production of Hydrogen and Sulfur from Hydrogen Sulfide in a Nonthermal-Plasma Pulsed Corona Discharge Reactor

Abstract Hydrogen sulfide ( H 2 S ) dissociation into hydrogen and sulfur has been studied in a pulsed corona discharge reactor (PCDR). Due to the high dielectric strength of pure H 2 S ( ∼ 2.9 times higher than air), a nonthermal plasma could not be sustained in pure H 2 S at discharge voltages up to 30 kV with our reactor geometry. Therefore, H 2 S was diluted with another gas with lower dielectric strength to reduce the breakdown voltage. Breakdown voltages of H 2 S in four balance gases (Ar, He, N 2 , and H 2 ) have been measured at different H 2 S concentrations and pressures. Breakdown voltages are proportional to the partial pressure of H 2 S and the balance gas. With increasing H 2 S concentrations, H 2 S conversion initially increases, reaches a maximum, and then decreases. H 2 S conversion and the reaction energy efficiency depend on the balance gas and H 2 S inlet concentrations. H 2 S conversion in atomic balance gases, such as Ar and He, is more efficient than that in diatomic balance gases, such as N 2 and H 2 . These observations can be explained by proposed reaction mechanisms of H 2 S dissociation in different balance gases. The results show that nonthermal plasmas are effective for dissociating H 2 S into hydrogen and sulfur.
Adenylate cyclase in striatal cholinergic interneurons regulates acetylcholine release

Fractional [3H]ACH efflux from dissociated rat striata tested whether tonic inhibition prevents stimulation of acetylcholine (ACH) release by adenylate cyclase. Forskolin stimulated release from the dissociated cells (threshold at 300 nM; EC50 ≥ 1 μM). Release was also stimulated by 3-isobutyl-l-methylxanthine and was additive with forskolin. The 1,9-dideoxy forskolin analog that lacks cyclase-stimulating activity was ineffective. Thus, stimulation of adenylate cyclase within striatal cholinergic interneurons increases ACH secretion but is tonically inhibited by endogenous striatal transmitters. Disinhibition of the excitatory cyclase by denervation of striatal cholinergic interneurons in situ could contribute to supersensitivity without receptor upregulation.
Daytime headlight operation and motorcyclist fatalities

Abstract Since 1978, all new motorcycles first registered in California are required by law to be equipped with headlights which automatically turn on when the engine is started. The purpose of this law is to increase headlight use during daytime and prevent multi-vehicle collisions due to poor conspicuity of motorcyclists. This paper examines whether the increasing operation of motorcycle headlights has been effective in reducing the number of daytime multi-vehicle fatalities in California and other states affected by the California legislation. Time series of motorcycle fatalities (1976–1981) for California and other states in the U.S.A. are analyzed by log-linear analysis. Models representing the null-hypothesis were found to be consistent and more parsimonious descriptions of the observed data than models which incorporated additional terms indicating the effectiveness of increased headlight operation, or the effectiveness of daytime headlight use laws. Although the latter terms were not found to be statistically significant, a slight decrease in the odds ratio of multi to single vehicle collisions was predicted in states without daytime headlight use laws. This decrease suggests that daytime headlight operation may be beneficial in reducing the number of motorcycle fatalities.
Factors Associated with Intention to Breastfeed Among Low-Income, Inner-City Pregnant Women

Objectives: To examine the relationship between sociodemographic factors, maternal characteristics, and intention to breastfeed among low-income, inner-city pregnant women. Methods: English and Spanish speaking low-income women recruited from local Philadelphia health centers were surveyed at the time of their first prenatal care visit. At the time of the visit, respondents were asked whether or not they planned to breastfeed their infant. The responses of 2,690 women were included in these analyses. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the independent associations of race/ethnicity, nativity status, education, and other factors on the odds of intending to breastfeed. Results: About half (53%) of the respondents reported that they intended to breastfeed their infant. In adjusted logistic regression models, immigrant black (adjusted OR [aOR] 5.82; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.86, 8.77), other Hispanic (who were predominantly foreign-born) (aOR 6.05; 95% CI 3.92, 9.33), and island-born Puerto Rican (aOR 3.48; 95% CI 2.04, 5.95) women were significantly more likely to report that they intended to breastfeed than non-Hispanic whites. Somewhat surprisingly, non-Hispanic, US-born African Americans in this low-income sample were more likely to report that they intended to breastfeed than non-Hispanic white respondents (aOR 1.59; 95% CI 1.20, 2.11). Lower education, not living with the baby's father, multiparous pregnancy, and smoking were negatively and independently associated with intention to breastfeed. Maternal age, household income, public housing, and depressive symptoms were not significant predictors of breastfeeding intention in adjusted multivariate models. Conclusions: Significant differences were documented in breastfeeding intention in our sample of low-income, inner-city women. Most notable was the higher likelihood of anticipated breastfeeding among our immigrant sub-groups when compared with non-Hispanic white women. An unexpected finding was the higher likelihood of anticipated breastfeeding among native-born, non-Hispanic African American women than among non-Hispanic white respondents. Because intentions are important predictors of future behavior, more focus needs to be directed towards breastfeeding promotion during the prenatal period and towards a better understanding of why some mothers intend to breastfeed while others do not.
Towards intelligent autonomous control systems: Architecture and fundamental issues

Autonomous control systems are designed to perform well under significant uncertainties in the system and environment for extended periods of time, and they must be able to compensate for system failures without external intervention. Intelligent autonomous control systems use techniques from the field of artificial intelligence to achieve this autonomy. Such control systems evolve from conventional control systems by adding intelligent components, and their development requires interdisciplinary research. A hierarchical functional intelligent autonomous control architecture is introduced here and its functions are described in detail. The fundamental issues in autonomous control system modelling and analysis are discussed.
Are All Epidurals Created Equally? A Systematic Review of the Literature on Caudal, Interlaminar, and Transforaminal Injections from the Last 5 Years

Spinal pathology is a common source of pain. Epidural injections are frequently utilized to treat spine-based pain. There are several routes of epidural injection including the caudal, interlaminar, and transforaminal approaches. The final needle position for these various routes of injection varies significantly, even when the same underlying pathology is targeted. This has lead to vigorous debate regarding the ideal approach for these common procedures. The goal of this article is to discuss the recent literature regarding the outcomes of the various epidural routes in the lumbar spine.
Role of sterol superlattice in free radical-induced sterol oxidation in lipid membranes.

We developed a new fluorescence assay for sterol oxidation and used it to study the relationship between free radical-induced sterol oxidation and membrane sterol lateral organization. This assay used dehydroergosterol (DHE) as both a membrane probe and a membrane component. Sterol oxidation was induced by a free radical generator, AAPH (2,2‘-azobis(2-amidinopropane)dihydrochloride). Using this new assay, we found that, in unilamellar vesicles composed of DHE and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-l-α-phosphatidylcholine (POPC), the initial rate of DHE oxidation induced by AAPH changed with membrane sterol content in an alternating manner, exhibiting a local maximum at 20.3, 22.2, 25.0, 32.3, and 40.0 mol % DHE. These mole fractions correspond to the critical sterol mole fractions Cr predicted for maximal sterol superlattice formation. In three-component bilayers composed of POPC, cholesterol, and DHE (fixed at 1 and 5 mol %), the initial rate of AAPH-induced DHE oxidation exhibited a biphasic change whenever the total...
The effect of oxygen exposure on erythrocyte phospholipid composition.

ABE, M. and SEVANIAN, A. The Effect of Oxygen Exposure on Erythrocyte Phospholipid Composition. Tohoku J, exp. Med., 1981, 135 (2), 205-211-Phospholipids in plasma and erythrocytes of rats exposed to 100% oxygen for 3 days were analyzed. Exposed rats contained lower quantities of several phospholipids in both plasma and erythrocytes than in matched controls. Pronounced decreases were found in phosphatidylcholine and lysophosphatidylcholine. The proportion of disaturated species in erythrocyte phosphatidylcholine was significantly greater after oxygen exposure. There was an increase in percentage of saturated fatty acids with a proportionate decrease in percentage of unsaturated fatty acids. The increase in saturation was associated primarily with palmitate while decreased unsaturation involved primarily linoleic acid. In plasma the proportions of stearic acid increased while those of linoleic, arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids decreased in phosphatidylcholine. Damage to cell lipids may account for increased hemolysis which occurs after exposure to high oxygen concentrations. Erythrocytes recovered following oxygen exposure contained phospholipid species commonly found in immature red blood cells.