cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extragalactic water masers, geometric estimation of H0, and characterization of dark energy

Abstract High precision estimation of the equation of state of dark energy depends on constraints external to analyses of Cosmic Microwave Background fluctuations. A geometric estimation of the local expansion rate, H 0 , would provide the most direct and robust constraint. Traditional techniques to estimate H 0 have depended on observations of standard candles for which systematic effects can be 10% or more. Observations of water maser sources in the accretion disks that feed the central engines of active galaxies enable simplified, robust, and largely geometric analyses. Many thousand maser sources will be discovered in studies with the SKA, owing to its great sensitivity. Spectroscopic monitoring and interferometric mapping – with intercontinental baselines – will allow estimation of H 0 to ∼1% and possibly better.
Female rats display enhanced rewarding effects of ethanol that are hormone dependent.

Background Ethanol (EtOH) abuse is a major health and economic concern, particularly for females who appear to be more sensitive to the rewarding effects of EtOH. This study compared sex differences to the rewarding and aversive effects of EtOH using place-conditioning procedures in rats. Methods Separate groups of adult (male, female, ovariectomized [OVX] female) and adolescent (male and female) rats received EtOH (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, or 2.5 g/kg, intraperitoneal) and were confined to their initially nonpreferred side of our conditioning apparatus for 30 minutes. On alternate days, they received saline and were confined to the other side. Following 5 drug pairings, the rats were retested for preference behavior. Separate cohorts of the same groups of rats were injected with a similar dose range of EtOH, and blood EtOH levels (BELs) were compared 30 minutes later. Results EtOH produced rewarding or aversive effects in a dose-dependent manner. An intermediate dose of EtOH (1.0 g/kg) produced rewarding effects in adult female, but not in male or OVX female rats, suggesting that ovarian hormones facilitate the rewarding effects of EtOH. Similarly, this intermediate dose of EtOH produced rewarding effects in adolescent female, but not in male rats. The highest dose of EtOH (2.5 g/kg) produced aversive effects that were similar across all adult groups. However, the aversive effects of EtOH were lower in adolescents than adults, suggesting that adolescents are less sensitive to the aversive effects of EtOH. The aversive effects of EtOH did not vary across the estrous cycle in intact adult females. There were also no group differences in BELs, suggesting that our results are not related to EtOH metabolism. Conclusion Our results in rats suggest that human females may be more vulnerable to EtOH abuse due to enhanced rewarding effects of this drug that are mediated by the presence of ovarian hormones.
New supramolecular architectures using hydrogen bonding

Several new multiply hydrogen bonded complexes have been studied to determine their strength and the specificity with which they form. While many factors contribute to the stability of multiply hydrogen bonded complexes, it appears that the arrangement of the hydrogen bond donor and acceptor groups is a particularly good predictor of binding strength. The results are consistent with W. L. Jorgensen’s secondary electrostatic hypothesis. The heterocyclic recognition units that have been synthesized may serve as the basis for constructing new synthetic hosts or new self-assembling systems.
A projection cutting plane algorithm for convex programming problems

Abstract The solution of a convex programming problem of the form min {ϕ 0 (x) | ϕ j (x, y) ≤ 0, j = 1,…, k} = min {ϕ 0 (x) | (x, y) ϵ Ω ⊂ R n × R m } is considered. The complexity of cutting plane methods for these problems depends on m + n. In this paper, the problem is reformulated as min{ϕ0(x) | x ϵ ω}, where ω = proj R n Ω , and the complexity depends only on n. How the cutting plane is found in the new formulation is discussed, together with a complexity analysis of this operation. Finally, an example where the projection cutting plane algorithm is more efficient than standard cutting plane methods is presented.
On The Question of Seasonal Regularities in Australian Capital Markets

The folklore that rates of return on the Australian capital market exhibit seasonals is tested. Previous studies by Praetz (1973) and Officer (1975) have reported seasonals. Rozeff and Kinney (1976) follow up these studies and confirm the seasonal in U.S. data. Using spectral techniques, this study provides evidence which, on balance, supports the hypothesis that the generation process for rates of return on Australian equity shares is devoid of seasonal regularity.
Barriers to Using Text Message Appointment Reminders in an HIV Clinic

Abstract Introduction: Failure to attend medical appointments among persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been associated with poor health outcomes. Text message appointment reminders are a novel tool to potentially improve appointment attendance, but the feasibility of this tool among persons living with HIV in the United States is unknown. Subjects and Methods: We conducted a randomized, controlled trial of text message reminders in a large HIV clinic. Patients who declined enrollment were asked for reasons for declining. For all patients randomized, demographic and clinical data were collected from medical records. Results: Of 94 patients screened for the study, 42 (45%) did not elect to participate; the most common reason for declining participation was the lack of either a cell phone or text messaging service. Cost, comfort with text messaging, and privacy were other major barriers to study enrollment. Among the 25 subjects randomized to receive text messages, 6 (24%) had their p...
A multi-scale model for coupled heat conduction and deformations of viscoelastic functionally graded materials

Abstract An integrated micromechanical-structural framework is presented to analyze coupled heat conduction and deformations of functionally graded materials (FGM) having temperature and stress dependent viscoelastic constituents. A through-thickness continuous variation of the thermal and mechanical properties of the FGM is approximated as an assembly of homogeneous layers. Average thermo-mechanical properties in each homogeneous medium are computed using a simplified micromechanical model for particle reinforced composites. This micromechanical model consists of two isotropic constituents. The mechanical properties of each constituent are time–stress–temperature dependent. The thermal properties (coefficient of thermal expansion and thermal conductivity) of each constituent are allowed to vary with temperature. Sequentially coupled heat transfer and displacement analyses are performed, which allow analyzing stress/strain behaviors of FGM having time and temperature dependent material properties. The thermo-mechanical responses of the homogenized FGM obtained from micromechanical model are compared with experimental data and the results obtained from finite element (FE) analysis of FGMs having microstructural details. The present micromechanical-modeling approach is computationally efficient and shows good agreement with experiments in predicting time-dependent responses of FGMs. Our analysis forecasts a better design for creep resistant materials using particulate FGM composites.
The influence of self-compassion on emotional well-being among early and older adolescent males and females

Self-compassion has been associated with well-being in adult samples, but has rarely been assessed in adolescents. In this study, 90 students ages 11–18 completed an online survey assessing self-compassion, life satisfaction, perceived stress and positive and negative affect. Findings indicated that older female adolescents had lower self-compassion than either older male adolescents or early adolescents of either gender, and self-compassion was associated significantly with all dimensions of emotional well-being with the exception of positive affect. Additionally, phase of adolescence, but not gender, was found to moderate the relationship between self-compassion and dimensions of well-being; for older adolescents, the inverse relationship between self-compassion and negative affect was stronger. Lastly, the influence of the various components of self-compassion was investigated and discussed.
Obstacles and Disaster Risk Reduction: Survey of Memphis Organizations

The disaster management literature is replete with surveys at the community and household levels. However, few exist at the organizational level. This study attempts to fill this void by examining the effect of organizational obstacles on disaster risk reduction. The data come from a survey of 227 organizations in Memphis, Tennessee. This study investigates three obstacles to disaster risk reduction: lack of organizational support, lack of information, and lack of financial resources. The findings show that organizations are more likely to engage in low-effort activities indirectly related to risk reduction and are less likely to engage in high-effort activities directly related to risk reduction. The most important obstacle is lack of information about the frequency of disasters, magnitude of disasters, or organizational benefits of reducing disaster risks. Lack of financial resources and lack of organizational support are sometimes positively associated with risk-reducing activities, suggesting that, when organizations engage in risk-reducing activities, some obstacles become more apparent. The study concludes with implications, limitations, and future research strategies.
The Influence of Steps on the Orientation of Copper Phthalocyanine Monolayers on Au(111)

The structure of monolayer films of copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) deposited on a Au(111) surface in ultrahigh vacuum is studied using scanning tunneling microscopy and low-energy electron diffractio...
Exploring a Stack Architecture

Computer architects design a high-performance system out of the same components that the rest of us would use to build a common one. They do it through an understanding of how the system will actually be programmed. Such was the insight which led to the development of stack-based computers.
ROLE OF ANTIBODY AND THE CLASSICAL AND ALTERNATIVE COMPLEMENT PATHWAYS ON THE OPSONIZATION OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCI

In previous studies we have shown that neonates who develop Group B streptococcal sepsis usually lack opsonins to their infecting strain. This investigation was designed to determine the role of antibody and complement in opsonization of these organisms. We also evaluated the effects of fresh blood transfusions on serum opsonic activity in neonates. Group B streptococcal opsonins were determined by a chemiluminescence procedure previously described (JCI 58:1379, 1976). Opsonic activity for types Ia and II was significantly depressed by heating and by inactivation of the classical pathway with Mg++ EGTA. Similar treatment of fresh serum containing type III antibody did not alter opsonic activity for this strain. In the absence of heat stable antibody, fresh serum demonstrated no alternative pathway opsonic activity for group B streptococcal strains; factor B was not activated by electrophoretic analysis; and C3 was not deposited on the cell surface. Comparison of pre and post transfusion sera from 19 neonates showed a rise in opsonic activity only when heat stable antibody was present in donor serum. These results confirm the importance of heat stable antibody and the classical pathway in opsonization of Group B streptococci but do not indicate a major role for the alternative pathway. Therapy aimed at supplying passive immunity to infected neonates will require the presence of heat stable opsonins.
Dyskinesias associated with atomoxetine in combination with other psychoactive drugs

Toxicity experience with atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor approved for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is limited. We report two cases of neurologic complications requiring hospitalization in patients when atomoxetine was added to other psychoactive drugs. A 9-year-old taking clonidine and dextroamphetamine developed psychosis, abnormal involuntary movements, and insomnia. An 18-year-old also initiating venlafaxine developed facial tics, tremors, and speech disturbance. Acute symptoms did not respond to diphenhydramine in either case, but resolved after atomoxetine and other medications were discontinued. Possible explanations include atypical atomoxetine effect, excess atomoxetine or metabolites due to poor metabolizer status (CYP 2D6 polymorphism/deficiency), a drug-drug interaction leading to elevated drug levels or to excess synaptic norepinephrine or dopamine. Serotonin syndrome is a possibility in the second case, but not the first. Clinicians should be aware of emergent dyskinesias when combining atomoxetine with dopaminergic, noradrenergic, or serotonergic medications.
The Cytotoxicity of Tumor Necrosis Factor Depends on Induction of the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition

Complete prevention of the killing of L929 fibroblasts by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF) in the presence of 0.5 μg/ml actinomycin D (ActD) was obtained with cyclosporin A (CyA), an inhibitor of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT), and aristolochic acid (ArA), a phospholipase A2 inhibitor. Peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBzR) agonists (PK11195, FGIN 1-27, or chlorodiazepam), agents known to potentiate induction of the MPT, potentiated the cytotoxicity of TNF in the absence of ActD, an effect prevented by CyA plus ArA. The MPT was demonstrated independently of its effect on viability as the CyA-sensitive loss of rhodamine 123 fluorescence from cells preloaded with the dye. Treatment with TNF and ActD resulted in the loss of 80% of rhodamine fluorescence within 6 h, a time prior to any loss of viability. CyA plus ArA completely prevented this effect of TNF. Potentiation of the cytotoxicity of TNF by PBzR agonists was associated with induction of the MPT, as assessed by the loss of rhodamine fluorescence. CyA plus ArA completely prevented the loss of rhodamine 123. Ceramide replaced TNF in killing L929 fibroblasts, an effect also prevented by CyA plus ArA. Ceramide in the presence of ActD resulted in the loss of rhodamine fluorescence, an effect that was again prevented by CyA plus ArA. In addition, CyA plus ArA prevented the ability of PBzR agonists to potentiate the cytotoxicity of ceramide. In the presence of each PBzR agonist, ceramide caused the loss of rhodamine fluorescence, an effect completely prevented by CyA plus ArA. D609, an inhibitor of phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C, completely prevented the killing by TNF, but not by ceramide, in the presence of ActD. D609 prevented induction of the MPT occurring with TNF, but not with ceramide. Inhibitors of endocytosis, as well as lysosomotropic amines, prevented the cytotoxicity of TNF, but not that of ceramide. It is concluded that the MPT is causally linked to the genesis of irreversible cell injury with TNF. In the face of an inhibition of protein synthesis, the MPT occurs as a consequence of the formation of ceramide.
Measurement of fine particulate matter using electron microscopy techniques

Abstract Ambient fine particulate matter, defined as material with an aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 2.5 μm (PM2.5), comprises a broad range of primary and secondary particles that are dispersed through the atmosphere from a variety of sources. Attention has recently shifted to investigating ambient PM2.5 because fine particles are thought to have a greater influence on health effects. Of particular interest are sources of fossil fuel combustion because they have been hypothesized as potentially contributing to the observed link between atmospheric particulate matter and health effects. Current studies are focused on the use of multiple analytical techniques to assist in the characterization of particulate matter to gain a better understanding of the relationship between anthropogenic emission sources and ambient PM2.5. Electron microscopy techniques are being employed to provide information on the size, morphology, and elemental composition of individual particles. Individual particle data offers the potential to more specifically identify and quantify sources of particulate matter contributing to ambient air quality. However, electron microscopy has not been widely utilized in air quality studies because of the difficulties associated with collecting a sample that is well suited for individual particle analysis. Recent improvements in sampling technology, specifically the speciation sampler, permit collection of samples that are more amenable for electron microscopy analysis. This paper discusses the application of electron microscopy in environmental studies for individual particle analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy (CCSEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The paper also addresses managing the difficulties associated with the characterization of fine particulate matter using electron microscopy due to substrate interference and describes the benefits of sample collection with speciation samplers.
Localized to itinerant electronic transitions in transition-metal oxides with the perovskite structure

The transition from localized to itinerant electronic behavior is shown to be first-order. In a perovskite, segregation into localized-electron and itinerant-electron phases can be accomplished by cooperative atomic displacements. Sr1-xCaxVO3 and La1-xNdxCuO3 illustrate single-valent perovskites that exhibit localized-electron fluctuations in an itinerant-electron matrix on approaching the Mott−Hubbard transition, and CaFeO3 and NdNiO3 form charge-density waves with MO complexes or itinerant-electron slabs alternating with localized-electron states.
Detection of mycoplasma contamination in lymphoblastoid cell lines by monoclonal antibodies

Abstract We have produced two monoclonal antibodies, SFR1-Myco 1 and SFR1-Myco 2, that detect Mycoplasma fermentans found to contaminate lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL). The specificity of these monoclonal antibodies against the M. fermentans was determined by indirect immunfluorescence by demonstrating the reactivity of the monoclonal antibodies with known reference strains of mycoplasma grown on soft agar. The reactivity of these antibodies against LCL in a number of immunoassays correlates completely with the presence of mycoplasma in these cells as determined by a standard mycoplasma detection assay. Because of the potential for widespread contamination of B lymphoblastoid cell lines transformed with Epstein-Barr virus-containing supernatants obtained from marmoset cell lines contaminated with M. fermentans , these monoclonal antibodies have value as screening reagents for this mycoplasma species in LCL.
Smoking-Related “Interstitial” Lung Disease

Context.— Emphysema, respiratory bronchiolitis, desquamative interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary Langerhans' cell histiocytosis, small-airway injury including submucosal and adventitial fibrosis, increased bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue, and small artery/arteriolar wall thickening are recognized histologic findings in cigarette smokers. It has only recently been acknowledged that the range of lung injury from cigarette smoke is wider than generally accepted, in particular, there is increasing recognition that fibrosis of alveolar walls occurs in smokers. Objectives.— To review the literature that describes the range of histologic findings in cigarette smokers and that links cigarette smoke exposure to the development of alveolar wall fibrosis. Data Sources.— Relevant peer-reviewed literature indexed in PubMed (National Library of Medicine) form the basis of this review. Conclusions.— Smokers demonstrate a wide range of lung injury at biopsy that defies simple placement within single categories, and the...
Mechanical Separation Phenomena in Picking Mechanisms of Fly-Shuttle Looms

Mechanical separation between cam and pick ball in fly-shuttle looms gives rise to impact and vibration which causes significant noise emission. Elimination of separation is analyzed using a mathematical model which simulates the dynamic response characteristics of the system. Parameters considered in the study include equivalent stiffness, mass, and damping of the system, amplitude of excitation, effect of preload provided by a retaining spring, and operating frequency. Combinations of system parameters and operating conditions which give rise to separation are predicted by examining the contact force developed between cam and cam-follower. Equations and graphs are presented that specify the preload required to eliminate separation as a function of the system parameters.
Are We All Equal at Death?: Death Competence in Municipal Cemetery Management

Managers of local government cemeteries should balance social and cultural expectations with fiscal responsibility and when they do so they demonstrate death competence in cemetery management. This study reviews the cultural and social equity aspects of the consumption of cemetery services and develops tools to take into account social equity and cultural concerns for public sector cemetery managers. Cemetery demand and pricing models are developed and applied to the case of Austin, Texas. These models enhance the estimation of demand by taking into account cultural factors and contextualize pricing in terms of social equity concerns.
Effect of Concentration and Size of Lubricant on Flow Rate of Granules

Abstract The flow rates of lactose granulations containing 50% of phenobarbital, sulfadiazine, and sodium salicylate were compared to the flow rate of the basic lactose granulation. Hydrogenated castor oil, glyceryl monostearate, polyethylene glycol 4000, and stearic acid were investigated as lubricants by means of a flow‐ometer. For each lubricant, there was an optimum concentration, not exceeding 1%, which produced a maximum flow rate of the sodium chloride and the lactose granulation. For a constant concentration of lubricant, the flow rate was increased to a maximum rate as the size of the lubricant was reduced to 0.0213 cm. A further reduction in size of the lubricant slowed the flow rate.
Prognostic significance of a decline in serum human chorionic gonadotropin levels after initial chemotherapy for advanced germ-cell carcinoma.

Abstract We studied 40 consecutive patients with advanced germ-cell carcinoma and elevated serum levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to assess the prognostic value of the magnitude of the ...
On flow switching bifurcations in discontinuous dynamical systems

Abstract In paper, the sliding dynamics on the separation boundary is discussed based on the set-valued vector field theory. From vector fields in the neighborhood of a specific separation boundary, the passability of the flow from the one domain into another one is further discussed. The switching bifurcation conditions from the passable boundary to the non-passable boundary are developed. The sliding flow fragmentation on the separation boundary surface is also presented. The normal vector product field function is introduced to determine the switching bifurcation and sliding fragmentation.
High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Efflux, Nitration of Apolipoprotein A-I and Endothelial Function in Obese Women

Subjects at risk of atherosclerosis might have dysfunctional high-density lipoprotein (HDL) despite normal cholesterol content in the plasma. We considered whether the efflux of excess cellular cholesterol to HDL from obese subjects is associated with impaired arterial endothelial function, a biomarker of cardiovascular risk. A total of 54 overweight (body mass index [BMI] 25 to 29.9 kg/m(2)) or obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m(2)) women, aged 46 ± 11 years, were enrolled in a worksite wellness program. The HDL cholesterol averaged 57 ± 17 mg/dl and was inversely associated with the BMI (r = -0.419, p = 0.002). Endothelial function was assessed using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation. Cholesterol efflux from (3)H-cholesterol-labeled baby hamster kidney cells transfected with the adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter 1 showed 8.2% to 22.5% cholesterol efflux within 18 hours when incubated with 1% serum and was positively correlated with brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (p <0.05), especially in the 34 subjects with BMI ≥30 kg/m(2) (r = 0.482, p = 0.004). This relation was independent of age, HDL or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in plasma, blood pressure, or insulin resistance on stepwise multiple regression analysis (β = 0.31, R(2) = 0.21, p = 0.007). Nitration of apolipoprotein A-I tyrosine residues (using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was significantly greater in women with a BMI ≥30 kg/m(2) and the lowest cholesterol efflux than in women with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 kg/m(2) and the greatest cholesterol efflux (p = 0.01). In conclusion, we have shown that decreased cholesterol efflux by way of the adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter 1 is associated with increased nitration of apolipoprotein A-I in HDL and is an independent predictor of impaired endothelial function in women with a BMI of ≥30 kg/m(2). This finding suggests that the functional measures of HDL might be better markers for cardiovascular risk than the HDL cholesterol levels in this population.
Evolved resistance to PCB- and PAH-induced cardiac teratogenesis, and reduced CYP1A activity in Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis) populations from the Houston Ship Channel, Texas

The Houston Ship Channel (HSC), connecting Houston, Texas to Galveston Bay and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico, is heavily industrialized and includes several areas that have historically been identified as containing significant levels of mercury, dioxins, furans, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Gulf killifish, Fundulus grandis, inhabit this entire estuarine system, including the most contaminated areas. F. grandis is the sister species of the well-established estuarine model organism Fundulus heteroclitus, for which heritable resistance to both PCB and PAH toxicity has been documented in several populations. F. grandis collected from two Superfund sites on the HSC and from a reference population were used to establish breeding colonies. F1 embryos from HSC populations were approximately 1000-fold more resistant to PCB126- and 2–5-fold more resistant to coal tar-induced cardiovascular teratogenesis, relative to embryos from the reference population. Reciprocal crosses between reference and contaminated populations exhibit an intermediate level of resistance, confirming that observed protection is genetic and biparentally inherited. Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) data confirm a reduction in basal and induced cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) activity in resistant populations of F. grandis. This result is consistent with responses previously described for resistant populations of F. heteroclitus, specifically a recalcitrant aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. The decreased levels of cardiovascular teratogenesis, and decrease in CYP1A inducibility in response to PCB126 and a PAH mixture, suggest that HSC F. grandis populations have adapted to chronic contaminants exposures via a mechanism similar to that previously described for F. heteroclitus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documentation of evolved pollution resistance in F. grandis. Additionally, the mechanistic similarities between the population adaptation observed in this study and previous work in F. heteroclitus suggest that genetic variation predating the evolutionary divergence of these two species may best explain the apparent rapid parallel evolution of pollution resistance in genetically and geographically distinct species and populations.
Finite-temperature QCD with intermediate-large quark masses

Hybrid simulations of lattice QCD with four flavors of staggered quarks were performed on a 12/sup 3/ x 4 lattice for quark masses of 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 (lattice units). The order parameters were measured near the finite-temperature transition. No clear signal of a first-order transition was seen.
The Essential Yeast Nucleoporin NUP159 Is Located on the Cytoplasmic Side of the Nuclear Pore Complex and Serves in Karyopherin-mediated Binding of Transport Substrate *

We have identified a new yeast nucleoporin of 159 kDa that we term NUP159. Immunofluorescence microscopy with a monospecific monoclonal antibody against NUP159 gave the punctate nuclear rim staining characteristic of nucleoporins. Immunogold electron microscopy with isolated yeast NEs yielded decoration of only the cytoplasmic side of the nuclear pore complex. The gene encoding NUP159 is essential, and, like some other nucleoporins, NUP159 contains a coiled-coil domain as well as a domain of repeated motifs. Five segments of NUP159, covering its entire length, were expressed in Escherichia coli. The repeat motif-containing segment was found to bind a nuclear transport substrate in the presence of vertebrate cytosolic extract containing nuclear transport factors. This segment also bound 35S-labeled mammalian karyopherin β, one such transport factor that mediates the docking of substrates to the nuclear pore complex. These data establish a direct biochemical link between the repeat motif domain of a yeast nucleoporin, transport factors, (specifically karyopherin β), and nuclear transport substrates. Its cytoplasmic aspect implies a role for NUP159 in nuclear import.
Incidence and classification of new-onset epilepsy and epilepsy syndromes in children in Olmsted County, Minnesota from 1980 to 2004: a population-based study.

Summary Purpose To determine the incidence and classification of new-onset epilepsy, as well as the distribution of epilepsy syndromes in a population-based group of children, using the newly proposed Report of the ILAE Commission on Classification and Terminology 2005–2009. Methods We identified all children residing in Olmsted County, MN, 1 month through 17 years with newly diagnosed epilepsy from 1980 to 2004. For each patient, epilepsy was classified into mode of onset, etiology, and syndrome or constellation (if present). Incidence rates were calculated overall and also separately for categories of mode of onset and etiology. Results The adjusted incidence rate of new-onset epilepsy in children was 44.5 cases per 100,000 persons per year. Incidence rates were highest in the first year of life and diminished with age. Mode of onset was focal in 68%, generalized/bilateral in 23%, spasms in 3% and unknown in 5%. Approximately half of children had an unknown etiology for their epilepsy, and of the remainder, 78 (22%) were genetic and 101 (28%) were structural/metabolic. A specific epilepsy syndrome could be defined at initial diagnosis in 99/359 (28%) children, but only 9/359 (3%) had a defined constellation. Conclusion Nearly half of childhood epilepsy is of “unknown” etiology. While a small proportion of this group met criteria for a known epilepsy syndrome, 41% of all childhood epilepsy is of “unknown” cause with no clear syndrome identified. Further work is needed to define more specific etiologies for this group.
Letter to the Editor---Selection of an Initial Solution for the Traveling-Salesman Problem

The present writer has developed a procedure that is not iterative and that rapidly selects a single solution. Experience in solving a number of problems by this method discloses a persistent, though not necessary, tendency for these solutions to approach optimum.
Conventional liver CD4 T cells are functionally distinct and suppressed by environmental factors

The contribution of intrahepatic conventional T cells to the unique immunologic properties of the liver has not been clearly defined. We isolated bulk and CD4 T cells from mouse liver and compared their functions with each other and with their splenic counterparts. Unlike bulk spleen T cells, bulk liver T cells reacted minimally to allogeneic or antigen-loaded syngeneic dendritic cells. However, after exclusion of natural killer T cells (NKTs) and gammadelta T cells by FACS, liver and spleen CD4 T cells actually proliferated to a similar extent upon allogeneic or antigen-specific stimulation. Liver CD4 T cells were more sensitive to interleukin 2 (IL-2) than were spleen CD4 T cells, but had a similar proliferative potential based on their response to CD3 ligation. In addition, activated liver CD4 T cells produced higher levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) than did splenic CD4 T cells. Therefore, liver CD4 T cells are intrinsically different from spleen CD4 T cells. In vitro, liver or spleen NKTs and gammadelta T cells suppressed liver and spleen CD4 T-cell proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion. In conclusion, unconventional T cells constrain liver CD4 T-cell function. Our findings have implications for pathological conditions of the liver that involve the response of conventional CD4 T lymphocytes.
Analysis of a plasmonic core-shell particle exhibiting high-impedance and high-admittance characteristics

The feasibility of a core-shell particle to mimic the behavior of an RLC circuit is examined. In particular, under the quasi-static limit, the conditions are derived that allow for this type of particle to exhibit a high-impedance and a high-admittance response. These conditions dictate that the core and the shell are comprised of material characterized by positive and negative permittivity, respectively. The effective medium theory is employed and it is demonstrated that the equivalent permittivity of the particle under the aforementioned conditions becomes infinite and zero, respectively. A representative numerical example supports the theoretically derived results.
The atmospheric degradation of 1-bromopropane (CH3CH2CH2Br): The photochemistry of bromoacetone

[1] The atmospheric degradation of 1-bromopropane and its degradation products are examined with respect to their ability to deplete stratospheric ozone. It is shown that the OH initiated oxidation of 1-bromopropane does not lead to long lived bromine containing species. Laboratory measurements of the UV absorption cross sections and photodissociation quantum yields of chloroacetone and bromoacetone are presented. The atmospheric photolysis lifetime of bromoacetone at mid-latitudes is determined to be on the order of hours.
An On-Heating Dilation Conversional Model for Austenite Formation in Hypoeutectoid Steels

Dilatometry is often used to study solid-state phase transformations. While most steel transformation studies focus on the decomposition of austenite, this article presents an on-heating dilation conversional model to determine phase fraction based on measured volume changes during the formation of austenite in ferrite-pearlite hypoeutectoid steels. The effect of alloying elements on the transformation strain is incorporated into the model. Comparison of the conversional model predictions to measured transformation temperature (A c3) shows excellent agreement. The pearlite decomposition finish temperature (A pf ) predicted by the conversional model more closely matches experimental results when compared to standard lever rule calculations. Results show that including the effects of substitutional alloying elements (in addition to carbon) improves phase fraction predictions. The conversional model can be used to quantitatively predict intercritical austenite fraction with application to modeling, induction heating, intercritical annealing, and more complex heat treatments for hypoeutectoid steels.
Leveraging the Power of a Twitter Network for Library Promotion

Abstract The Twitter network of two academic libraries was analyzed to determine the influential accounts that connect to them. Such information can be exploited by libraries to create tailored social media outreach and information dissemination programs. Three network metrics, measuring different definitions of importance, were calculated for each account in the network. This allowed for the quantification and ranking of the accounts by influence/importance, normally considered to be qualitative and subjective. By all measures, accounts associated with the institutions, and not faculty, staff, or students, were found to be the most influential players in the networks of both libraries, suggesting that this is a general feature of academic library Twitter networks. Furthermore, the library, as an institutional account itself, is also influential to the broader Twitter community of its home institution. This demonstrates that the library is in a key position to propagate information from sister accounts at the institution.
UV-induced fluorescence recovery and solubility modulation of photocaged conjugated oligomers

This article describes photoactivatable conjugated oligomers that show both increased fluorescence quantum yield and pH-dependant solubility upon irradiation with UV light. Sonogashira coupling between ester-substituted phenylacetylenes and alkoxy-substituted diiodo phenylene-vinylenes yielded conjugated phenylene-ethynylene/phenylene-vinylene oligomers. Oligomers with nitrobenzyl ester moieties had quenched fluorescence in polar solvents; UV irradiation restored their quantum yield of fluorescence to that of corresponding alkyl ester-substituted oligomers. These photocaged oligomers also exhibited UV-induced changes in solubility consistent with photogeneration of carboxylic acids. This approach is therefore effective at tuning the properties of conjugated organics with light after traditional synthetic operations, and has potential for use in photoactivatable fluorophores or solution-processable multilayer devices.
Discontinuity in the Microwave Slowly Varying Component Observed at 20:02 UT, June 16, 1972

The observations of a brief flaring region between two plages on the eastern limb of the Sun and the subsequent coronal transient are reported for June 16, 1972 by Koomen et al. (1974). Both of these events have unambiguous and closely timed associations with the solar noise bursts observed at 2800 and 2700 MHz and are also accompanied with good X-ray and SID effects but faint subflare (Solar-Geophysical Data). The two frequencies are those monitored at widely separated stations operated by the Astrophysics Branch of the National Research Council at Lake Traverse, Ontario and at Penticton, B.C.
Hysteresis meets the cell cycle

What, you may well ask, does hysteresis have to do with cell cycle progression? The last time most of us heard about hysteresis was in the context of the ferromagnetism that underlies tape players and floppy drives. In general, hysteresis means that it takes more of something to push a system from state A to state B than it does to keep the system in state B. Sha et al. (1) report in this issue of PNAS that the cell cycle of Xenopus egg extracts exhibits hysteresis in that the amount of cyclin needed to induce entry into mitosis is larger than the amount of cyclin needed to hold the extract in mitosis. This effect creates a nice bistable system with a ratchet to prevent slipping back from mitosis to interphase. This work also represents an excellent marriage of theory and experiment from the labs of John Tyson and Jill Sible, respectively, at Virginia Polytechnic Institute in Blacksburg. Some background, both experimental and theoretical, is necessary before discussing the importance of the current findings.
Optimization of the Coathanger Manifold via Computer Simulation and an Orthogonal Array Method.

A well-designed coathanger die may deliver a polymer melt through the die more uniformly. However, it is difficult to optimize the manifold profile because of the complexity of flow distribution with regard to problems of die geometry, temperature, shear, and viscoelastic effects. The empirical methods have been widely used to design the manifold of a flat slit die. But this approach is time consuming and causes die material waste due to the iterative design process. With computer simulation, die designers can repeat modifications to obtain the optimal manifold shape easily. In this research, the Taguchi method was used to investigate the influences of the materials, die geometry, and processing conditions on optimizing the manifold profile. The comparison of the thickness distributions with and without modified manifold showed that the modified manifold improves the thickness uniformity significantly.
Patterns of oak regeneration in a Midwestern savanna restoration experiment

Abstract Savannas’ defining feature is a scattered tree layer. However, woody plants have encroached savannas throughout the world, altering tree densities and potentially modifying regeneration dynamics. We used a replicated large-scale restoration experiment with Midwestern oak savannas (USA) to understand spatial patterns of regeneration by the dominant overstory species, Quercus alba . Q. alba is not only of interest as a savanna-forming species, but also a species of concern due to widespread low rates of regeneration. In this experiment, four sites received a restoration treatment, whereby all encroaching mesophytic trees and large shrubs were mechanically removed, and four sites operated as encroached controls. Within each site, we monitored naturally occurring Q. alba seedlings in plots under overstory trees and in plots in inter-canopy gaps for 4 years, including 1 year before and 3 years after treatment. Seedlings were ∼5× more abundant below overstory Q. alba trees, which we attribute to seed-rain. There was no effect of restoration on seedling densities. Year-to-year survival and survival of seedlings tracked over the course of the study were greater in sites undergoing restoration. Four-year survival rates were 31% in treatment sites and 10% in control sites. Across all sites, seedlings survived equally as well under canopy trees as in inter-canopy gaps. Mean seedling height, basal diameter, and number of leaves were greater in sites undergoing restoration, relative to control sites, and in inter-canopy gaps, relative to under canopy trees. Furthermore, there was an interaction between treatment and plot type, whereby mean seedling attributes were greatest in inter-canopy gaps of treatment sites. Seedlings tracked over the course of this study displayed greater survival, Δ (change in) height, Δ basal diameter, and Δ number of leaves in treatment sites, relative to control sites, and greater survival, Δ basal diameter, and Δ number of leaves in inter-canopy gaps, relative to under canopy trees. Individual seedling survival, Δ basal diameter, and Δ number of leaves were greatest in inter-canopy gaps of treatment sites. Our study suggests that woody encroachment is limiting regeneration of Q. alba in savannas; however, this may be ameliorated by removal of encroaching woody vegetation. Thus, the act of restoring these savannas may hold promise for promoting regeneration of Q. alba . Finally, the restored savannas in this study appear inherently unstable, as seedlings performed best in inter-canopy gaps. Further work with prescribed fire and/or grazing may elucidate stable tree–herbaceous understory coexistence in Midwestern oak savannas.
Chitosan-Based Inverse Opals: Three-Dimensional Scaffolds with Uniform Pore Structures for Cell Culture.

Tissue engineering is a promising approach to the development of biological substitutes that regenerate, replace, maintain, or improve the function of damaged tissues. Among various topics related to tissue engineering, the structures and properties of the scaffolds have been studied extensively in the context of material science and biomedical engineering. There are a number of generic requirements for the scaffold: 1) the material used for fabricating the scaffold must be biocompatible and biodegradable, together with positive responses from the seeded cells; 2) the scaffold should contain a network of pores, and favorably in the form of 3D interconnected architecture; and 3) the scaffold should have proper mechanical properties to suit the specific applications, including the generation of cartilage, bone, artificial blood vessel, among others.[1] In order to generate a well-defined scaffold, numerous methods have been proposed, including emulsion freeze drying,[2] high pressure processing,[3] particulate leaching,[4] gas foaming, [5] phase separation,[6] and electrospinning.[7] However, most of these methods are rather limited in terms of capability and feasibility. For example, the electrospinning method can hardly be extended to fabricate truly 3D scaffolds. Many of the other methods typically lead to the formation of irregular pore sizes, shapes, and structures, as well as poor connectivity. The pore size and structure of a scaffold are known to play a vital role in cell culture because they are responsible for not only the adhesion, migration, and distribution of cells, but also for the exchange of nutrients and metabolite wastes. Despite extensive efforts to control the pore sizes and structures, the issues related to uniformity and interconnectivity are yet to be solved as pointed out by many researchers.[8] In addressing these issues, the inverse opal structure can be considered as an ideal system, which has the most uniform pore size and regular 3D interconnectivity. Several groups have already shown the potential of an inverse opal as scaffold for 3D tissue engineering.[9] However, the used materials, silicate and polyacrylamide, are not biodegradable and can thus limit their potential use in clinical applications. Here we describe a technique for fabricating chitosan inverse opal scaffolds characterized by a biodegradable material, uniform pore size, well-controlled interconnectivity, and nanofibrous texture on the wall surface. We used uniform poly(caprolactone) (PCL) microspheres, prepared using a simple fluidic device, as the template.[10] Chitosan was chosen as a scaffold material because of its unique nanofibrous structure that typically develops during freeze-drying, as well as its nontoxic, anti-microbial, biocompatible, and biodegradable properties. Moreover, chitosan does not need a cross-linking procedure because it is only soluble in an acidic solution. We have also evaluated the potential use of the chitosan inverse opal as 3D scaffolds in the culture of preosteoblastic cells.
Role of O-Acetylserine in Hydrogen Sulfide Emission from Pumpkin Leaves in Response to Sulfate

In the presence of excess sulfate, cysteine synthesis in pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) leaves is not limited by sulfate reduction, but by the availability of O-acetylserine. Feeding of O-acetylserine or its metabolic precursors S-acetyl-coenzyme-A and coenzyme A to leaf discs enhanced the incorportion of [(35)S]sulfate into reduced sulfur compounds, mainly into cysteine, at the cost of lowered H(2)S emission; the uptake and reduction of sulfate is not affected by these treatments. beta-Fluoropyruvate, an inhibitor of the generation of S-acetyl-coenzyme A via pyruvate dehydrogenase, stimulated H(2)S emission in response to sulfate. This stimulation is overcompensated by addition of O-acetylserine, S-acetyl-coenzyme A, or coenzyme A. These results indicate that, in the presence of high amounts of sulfate, excess sulfur is reduced and emitted as H(2)S into the atmosphere. The H(2)S emitted seems to be produced by liberation from a precursor of cysteine rather than by cysteine desulfhydration.
The politics of health care reform in the United States, 1992-1994: a historical review.

In an analysis of the sociopolitical context of the debate on health care reform in the United States, the author focuses on the political events that led to the election of a Democratic administration in 1992; the evolution of the White House task force on health care reform and the interests and positions it represented; the connection between economic and political power in the United States; and the reasons for the defeat of the health care reform proposal. This historical analysis questions some of the dominant interpretations of the failure to reform health care, which assume that the U.S. population was not yet ready for these reforms.