cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Computational Technique for Thermal Reactor Transients

An accurate and computationally efficient numerical method for solving the two-group, multidimensional transient neutron diffusion equations with feedback is discussed. The method employs an approximation for the spatial shape of the thermal fluxes. The results of the test problems demonstrate that the convergence of the iteration scheme can be accelerated, and the resulting computing time can be greatly reduced while maintaining computational accuracy.
In adult twins, visceral fat accumulation depends more on exceeding sex-specific adiposity thresholds than on genetics

Abstract Objective We recently reported sex-specific percent body fat (%BF) thresholds (males = 23%, females = 38%) above which, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) significantly increases. Using monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins, we examined the influence of genetics on regional fat distribution measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, above and below these sex-specific thresholds for VAT accumulation. Methods Fifty-eight twin pairs (44 MZ, 14 DZ) were recruited from the University of Washington Twin Registry. Segmented linear regression was used to assess the threshold between VAT mass and %BF by sex and by zygosity. To assess the effect of genetics on VAT accumulation, Dunnett’s T3 compared MZ and DZ pairs whether the twin pairs were both above the adiposity threshold or not. Results %BF thresholds for VAT accumulation were identified (%BF: M = 20.6%, F = 39.4%). Zygosity-specific thresholds were not significantly different (p > 0.05). If at least one twin was below threshold, DZ twins still exhibited greater within-pair differences than MZ pairs in %BF (p = 0.023) but not VAT (p = 0.121). Conclusions Using a twin study approach, we observed no difference by zygosity for the threshold as which VAT accumulates. Additionally, for the first time we observed that while total BF is influenced by genetics, VAT accumulation may depend more on whether a person’s %BF is above their sex-specific adiposity threshold. These results suggest that there may not be a genetic predisposition for VAT accumulation but rather it is a result of a predisposition for total fat accumulation.
Adrenogenital syndrome in a male child due to adrenocortical tumor; report of case with hemihypertrophy and subsequent development of embryoma (Wilms' tumor).

A rare case of adrenogenital syndrome due to adrenocortical tumor is reported in a male child with left-sided hemihypertrophy and the subsequent development of an embryoma. Marked regression of hirsutism, advanced somatic and muscular development, deep voice and elevated urinary 17-ketosteroids followed removal of an adrenocortical adenoma. An embryoma was discovered five years later near the site of original operation. Removal of this tumor was followed by metastases and death after 15 months. The unusual association of adrenogenital syndrome with hemihypertrophy and embryoma is discussed. This case serves to emphasize the need for a guarded prognosis and alert observation even years after an uneventful course following removal of an adrenocortical tumor. A brief review is presented of 22 cases of adrenogenital syndrome in male children with adrenocortical tumors including the above case.
Selective induction of LTP and LTD by postsynaptic [Ca2+]i elevation.

Selective Induction of LTP and LTD by Postsynaptic [Ca2+]i Elevation. Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), two prominent forms of synaptic plasticity at glutamatergic affere...
Modeling corticofugal feedback and the sensitivity of lateral geniculate neurons to orientation discontinuity

We model feedback from primary visual cortex to the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN). This feedback makes dLGN neurons sensitive to orientation discontinuity (Sillito et al., 1993; Cudeiro & Sillito, 1996). In the model, each dLGN neuron receives retinotopic input driven by layer 6 cortical neurons in a full set of orientation columns. Excitation is monosynaptic, while inhibition is through perigeniculate neurons and dLGN interneurons. The stimulus consists of drifting gratings, one within and the other outside a circular region centered over the receptive field of the model dLGN relay neuron we study. They appear as a single grating when they are aligned with equal contrast. The model reproduces experimental results showing an increasing inhibitory effect of feedback on the firing rate of dLGN neurons as the two gratings move towards the aligned position. Moreover, enhancement of dLGN cell center-surround antagonism by feedback is revealed by measuring the responses to drifting gratings inside a circular window, as a function of window radius. This effect is related to the observed length tuning of dLGN cells. Sensitivity to orientation discontinuity could be mediated in the model by feedback from either simple or complex cells. The model puts constraints on the feedback synaptic footprint and shows that its elongated shape does not play a crucial role in sensitivity to orientation discontinuity. The inhibitory component of feedback must predominate overall, but the feedback signal from a cortical neuron to a dLGN neuron with the same or nearby receptive-field center can be dominated by excitation. Predictions of the model include (1) robust stimuli for layer 6 cortical neurons give pronounced nonlinearities in the responses of dLGN neurons; (2) the sensitivity to orientation discontinuity at low contrast is twice that at high contrast.
Simulated Welding Heat Affected Zone Toughness and Microstructure Transformation of a Ti-Zr Microalloyed Low Carbon Steel

Acicular ferrite (AF) can significantly improve the performance of steels and can be promoted through special inclusions. The present experimental steel was a low carbon Ti-Zr deoxidized and microalloyed steel. The welding heat affected zone (HAZ) simulation indicated that under high heat input (100 kJ/cm) and peak temperature (1400°C) conditions, the HAZ exhibited high impact toughness (150 J, -20°C) and desired microstructure. Isothermal heat treatment data suggested that grain boundary ferrite formed at ~600°C and AF formed at ~500°C. Intragranular plates sheaves formed at ~450°C. MnS coherent precipitation on ZrO2TiOx inclusions promoted AF nucleation.
Amino acids, glutamine, and protein metabolism in very low birth weight infants.

Glutamine has been proposed to be conditionally essential for premature infants, and the currently used parenteral nutrient mixtures do not contain glutamine. De novo glutamine synthesis (DGln) is linked to inflow of carbon into and out of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. We hypothesized that a higher supply of parenteral amino acids by increasing the influx of amino acid carbon into the TCA cycle will enhance the rate of DGln. Very low birth weight infants were randomized to receive parenteral amino acids either 1.5 g/kg/d for 20 h followed by 3.0 g/kg/d for 5 h (AA1.5) or 3.0 g/kg/d for 20 h followed by 1.5 g/kg/d for 5 h (AA3.0). A third group of babies received amino acids 1.5 g/kg/d for 20 h followed by 3.0 g/kg/d for 20 h (AA-Ext). Glutamine and protein/nitrogen kinetics were examined using [5-15N]glutamine, [2H5]phenylalanine, [1-13C,15N]leucine, and [15N2]urea tracers. An acute increase in parenteral amino acid infusion for 5 h (AA1.5) resulted in decrease in rate of appearance (Ra) of phenylalanine and urea, but had no effect on glutamine Ra. Infusion of amino acids at 3.0 g/kg/d for 20 h resulted in increase in DGln, leucine transamination, and urea synthesis, but had no effect on Ra phenylalanine (AA-Ext). These data show an acute increase in parenteral amino acid–suppressed proteolysis, however, such an effect was not seen when amino acids were infused for 20 h and resulted in an increase in glutamine synthesis.
Phase Relations and Crystal Chemistry in the System Uranium Oxide–Lanthanum Oxide

Uranium oxide-lanthanum oxide compositions were investigated to determine the phase relations and crystal chemistry in the system under a variety of experimental conditions. X-ray diffraction, polished-section, and chemical analysis techniques were used as tools of investigation. Compositions of known metal atom concentration were subjected to oxygen, air, hydrogen, and vacuum environments at elevated temperatures. The dependence of lattice parameter on a stoichiometry for a U/sub 0.5/La/sub 0.5/ O/sub 1.75 +x composition was determined. Cubic fluorite solubility was found over a considerable portion of the system uranium oxide lanthanum oxide. Results of lattice parameter measurements, stoichiometry determinations, and microstructure examinations are also presented. (auth)
Neutralization of acidic groundwater inputs and control of metal mobility by a near-shore adirondack lake sediment

Biogeochemical processes contributing to the neutralization of acidic groundwater passing through near-shore sediments of an acidified lake (Dart's Lake) were investigated in a controlled laboratory experiment. Three intact sediment cores collected from the near-shore region of the lake were connected to a system that simulated groundwater flow through lake sediments in a temperature controlled laboratory environment. The effect of sediment biogeochemical processes on groundwater chemistry was determined by evaluating changes in acid/base and metal chemistry for solutions entering and leaving the cores. Aluminum mobilization represented the most significant source of neutralization for each core and contributed up to 99% of H+ removal. Although the sediment cores were collected parallel to the shoreline and over a linear distance of only 0.3 m, significant differences in sediment chemistry were apparent and contributed to variations in the chemistry of water transported from the cores. For one core that exhibited retention of Al from the influent groundwater, retention of Pb by the sediment was similarly observed. Following acidification of this groundwater, Pb was readily remobilized. These results suggest that near-shore lake sediments may be effective at influencing seasonal variations in Al, Pb and base cations in lakes receiving groundwater inputs.
Metal volatilization and separation during incineration

Abstract The United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.EPA) has reported that metals can account for almost all of the identified risks from a thermal treatment process. Fundamental research leading to better understanding of their behavior and improved control of their emissions is greatly needed. This paper reports our studies on metal volatilization and separation during incineration. Metal volatilization studies were carried out in two separate experiments. In the first experiment, the dynamic volatilization characteristics of various metals during the combustion of metal-containing wood pellets were investigated in a high-temperature electric furnace. In addition to uncontrolled volatilization, the potential of employing chemical additives to bind metals and prevent them from volatilizing during combustion was also investigated. The second experiment involved the investigation of metal volatilization characteristics during the thermal treatment of metal-contaminated clay in a fluidized bed unit. The metal species tested in both experiments were compounds of lead and cadmium. Metal capture/separation studies were also carried out in two separate experiments. The first involved the use of sorbents in the combustion chamber to capture metals during the fluidized bed incineration of metal-containing wood pellets. The second experiments, however, employed sorbents to absorb metal vapors in a fluidized-bed waste-heat boiler. The objective of both the experiments is to characterize the metal absorption efficiency associated with the processes.
Uniform-height island growth of Pb on Si ( 111 ) − P b ( 3 × 3 ) at low temperatures

We have studied the growth of Pb on $\mathrm{Si}(111)\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{P}\mathrm{b}(\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3})$ at low temperatures, $Tl250\mathrm{K},$ and for coverages up to $\ensuremath{\theta}l20\mathrm{ML}.$ The study is carried out with the complementary techniques of high-resolution low-energy electron diffraction and variable-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. Uniform-height Pb islands, of flat tops and steep edges, are observed on this phase [similar to the uniform island growth observed on the $\mathrm{Si}(111)\ensuremath{-}(7\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}7)].$ The origin of this unusual growth is quantum size effects (i.e., the dependence of the electron energy on the island thickness because of the quantization of the electron energy levels in the island). The preferred island height is five steps on the $\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3}$ and seven steps on the $(7\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}7)$ (for the same growth conditions T, \ensuremath{\theta}) because of the different electronic structure at the two interfaces. Since different types of phases [i.e., $(1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1),\ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{-}\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3},$ which differ in the Pb stoichiometry] can form from the initial $\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3}$ phase, with increasing coverage, the growth on these phases can be also used to study island-height selection. Laterally larger uniform-height islands are observed on the $(1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1)$ at lower temperatures, $Tl170\mathrm{K};$ growth on the $\ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{-}\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3}$ at higher temperatures, $Tg195\mathrm{K},$ shows an open film with preference of the islands to grow to larger heights with uncovered regions of the $\ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{-}\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3}$ phase between the islands, even after deposition of 20 ML of Pb.
Antecedents and Consequences of Online Social Networking Behavior: The Case of Facebook

ABSTRACT Despite the recent popularity of online social networks, there are few available studies that explain the differences between real life and internet social networks. Authoritative information about the outcomes of using social networking websites is even more sparse. In an attempt to close this literature gap, this exploratory study found that online social networks and real life social networks are significantly different in terms of social network size. The results also show that gender and extroversion are the major predictors of both online social network size and time spent online for social networking. Perhaps the most interesting finding is the negative impact of self-esteem on inclusion of strangers in online social networks. Additionally, directions for future research are provided.
Optical control of focal epilepsy in vivo with caged γ-aminobutyric acid.

The therapy of epilepsy remains inadequate. Despite the introduction of several new antiepileptic drugs over the past 2 decades, close to 30% of patients suffer from poor seizure control even with optimal medical therapy.1 Although surgery has clearly benefited many patients with focal epilepsy, a substantial number of patients do not achieve significant remission after operation, and even those patients who do respond risk neurologic or neuropsychological deficits.2,3 The deficiencies of current therapy have stimulated investigation of invasive but nondestructive epilepsy therapies such as deep brain stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, focal cooling, and local drug delivery to terminate or even prevent seizures.4–7 However, all these possible therapies have had either limited success in early trials or have yet to be tested in patients. The relatively disappointing results with electrical stimulation as an epilepsy therapy have made the possibility of optical approaches to seizure control attractive. The transfection of message for light-sensitive chloride pumps into mammalian neurons (optogenetics) suggested a possible way to exploit the temporal and spatial resolution of optical techniques to control the pathological excitation characteristic of epilepsy.8 Unfortunately, optogenetic technology requires permanently altering the genome of transfected neurons and appears to modify their fundamental neurobiology.8 Caged compounds, including caged γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs, may provide a more practical approach for exploiting the potential of optical techniques to control pathological neuronal excitability. We have already demonstrated that we can use a small, ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diode (LED) to release sufficient GABA from 1 caged GABA, 4-[([2H-benzopyran-2-one-7-amino-4-methoxy] carbonyl) amino] butanoic acid (BC204), to activate GABAA receptors and suppress interictal activity in cultured neurons and brain slices.9,10 However, no one has yet reported optical suppression of in vivo experimental seizures. We recently became interested in a new ruthenium-based caged GABA, ruthenium-bipyridine-triphenylphosphine–GABA (RuBi-GABA), which releases GABA in the presence of visible, blue light.11 The lower energy of visible light, compared to UV, results in less light scattering and deeper brain penetration, making RuBi-GABA an attractive compound to test in a model of in vivo epilepsy.11 We report our initial investigation of the antiepileptic properties of RuBi-GABA in rat brain slices and then describe the first example of optical control of in vivo experimental seizures in a severe rodent seizure model. In previous studies, we have shown that Rubi-GABA itself is toxic to cultured neurons after several hours of exposure; however, these experiments demonstrate clear proof of principle of rapid, optical control of in vivo seizures with caged GABA.
Neuronal receptive field properties in feline nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis.

Abstract Nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis (NGC) has been shown, using both behavioral and physiological techniques, to be involved in the processing of nociceptive information. However, previous studies of the receptive fields of NGC neurons have utilized only innocuous stimuli. Thus, while neurons in NGC may play an important role in nociception, the receptive field properties of these cells remain to be defined. This investigation was designed to determine the receptive field properties of neurons in NGC using nociceptive and innocuous stimuli. Receptive fields were determined for 127 neurons in NGC. Eighty-seven percent of the NGC neurons studied responded exclusively to noxious stimuli, while 13% also responded to innocuous stimuli. None of the neurons studied responded exclusively to innocuous stimuli. The receptive fields of most NGC neurons (63%) were large, discontinuous, and bilaterally symmetrical. Eighty-one percent of NGC neurons received convergent inputs from both spinal and trigeminal systems. These receptive field properties differ from those previously reported using only innocuous stimulation
Enantioselective gas chromatographic assay with electron-capture detection for amlodipine in biological samples

A sensitive enantioselective gas chromatographic assay has been developed for amlodipine, 2-[(2-aminoethoxy)-methyl]-4-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-ethoxycarbonyl-5- methoxycarbonyl-6-methyl-1,4-dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocking therapeutic agent. The assay involves conversion of the (+)-(R)- and (-)-(S)-enantiomers of amlodipine into their acyl derivatives with the chiral reagent (+)-(S)-alpha-methoxy-alpha-trifluoromethylphenylacetyl chloride (Mosher's reagent). Peak separation after chromatography of the diastereomers was larger than 85%, and the lower limit of detection in blood plasma was 0.02 ng/ml for each enantiomer. The method has been used for the measurement of amlodipine enantiomers in human, rat and dog plasma, and in various organs of the rat.
Ensemble Kalman Filter Analyses of the 29–30 May 2004 Oklahoma Tornadic Thunderstorm Using One- and Two-Moment Bulk Microphysics Schemes, with Verification against Polarimetric Radar Data

AbstractThe performance of ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) analysis is investigated for the tornadic supercell on 29–30 May 2004 in Oklahoma using a dual-moment (DM) bulk microphysics scheme in the Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) model. The comparison of results using single-moment (SM) and DM microphysics schemes evaluates the benefits of using one over the other during storm analysis. Observations from a single operational Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) are assimilated and a polarimetric WSR-88D in Norman, Oklahoma (KOUN), is used to assess the quality of the analysis.Analyzed reflectivity and radial velocity in the SM and DM experiments compare favorably with independent radar observations in general. However, simulated polarimetric signatures obtained from analyses using a DM scheme agree significantly better with polarimetric signatures observed by KOUN in terms of the general structure, location, and intensity of the signatures than those generated from analyses using an ...
Study of immune response to tumors in the rat.

Abstract Use of the rat as host for the study of cancer has become popular for several reasons. The larger body size compared to mice is especially convenient for lines of experiments involving surgical manipulation, transplantation, or biochemical purification of molecules of interest. Immune response to cancer is also studied in rat models, and this article focuses on the methodological aspects of in vivo and in vitro protocols related to rat tumor immunology.
Survival and Functional Outcome After Surgical Resection of Intramedullary Spinal Cord Metastases

Objective Intramedullary spinal cord metastasis (ISCM) is a rare manifestation of systemic cancer and data about the optimal management of these lesions are lacking. To clarify the role of surgery, we investigated survival and neurological outcomes after surgical resection of ISCMs. Methods Between 2003 and 2010, we surgically treated 10 ISCMs in 9 patients. For each patient, we retrospectively collected the following data: demographic variables, history of prior cancer, site of primary cancer, extent of cancer on presentation, degree of resection, preoperative and postoperative spinal cord impairment (American Spinal Injury Association [ASIA] grade), and postoperative survival. We investigated the relationship between these variables, overall survival, and preservation of function. Results Eight ISCMs were treated with gross total resection and two were treated with subtotal resection. Overall postoperative survival was 6.4 ± 9.4 months (mean ± standard deviation), with one patient still alive at last follow-up. Patients with a diagnosis of melanoma had higher mean survival than those with nonmelanoma histology (20.5 ± 13.4 vs. 2.4 ± 1.7 months, P Conclusions Although ISCM is associated with poor prognosis, survival appears to be greater in patients with melanoma. Surgical resection does not appear to significantly lengthen survival but may be indicated to preserve ambulatory status in symptomatic patients.
The effects of neutrino oscillations with one mass scale on the atmospheric neutrino flux

Abstract We examine the effects of neutrino oscillations with one dominant mass scale on the detection of atmospheric neutrinos in the Kamiokande experiment. We investigate the influence of oscillations on total electron and muon neutrino event rates and on the energy and angular dependence of the electrons and muons. We find that the observed μ-to-e ratio of 0.56 ± 0.09 can be explained are favored over vμ → ve by the agreement of the electron rate with expectations. The oscillation effects which agree with the observed rates occur nearly uniformly in lepton momentum and angle.
The importance of emotional intelligence

Though Emotional Intelligence is still a vague concept for many people, partly because the topic has garnered numerous definitions, it has nevertheless been identified over the last couple decades as a contributing factor for project, business and career success. Some researchers have theorized that Emotional Intelligence is a better indicator for career success than traditional IQ.Emotional Intelligence is in fact a critical part of delivering consistent quality customer service to internal and external customers. While technology has become integral throughout society, and a critical tool for nearly all business endeavors, the fact remains technology is primarily a means to an end. When a client cannot complete important tasks or find necessary information for lack of appropriate or functional technology they become upset by the barrier encountered. I equate information systems to cars in that these critical tools are such relied upon technologies that when they fail to deliver the needed outcome clients quickly become frustrated and expect quality service in a short time period to resolve their issue.Emotional Intelligence is a key attribute toward developing meaningful constructive relationships with customers, peers and leaders. The ability and willingness to empathize with these groups of people, to genuinely understand and care about their unique priorities, needs and challenges is the foundation of quality customer service and continuous improvement. Hiring and retaining people with this important attribute can be the difference between success and failure for a particular project or an entire organization.
Fractionation of mitochondrial membranes with sodium deoxycholate.

Abstract Treatment of mitochondrial cristae membranes with increasing concentrations of sodium deoxycholate in the presence of salt results in a differential distribution of cytochromes and proteins between a light supernatant fraction and a heavy membranous pellet. In thin sections, the mitochondrial membrane is seen splitting into two thinner membranes. At an optimal deoxycholate concentration a separation of the red ( b and c 1 ) and green ( aa 3 ) cytochromes between the pellet and supernatant fractions is achieved. Upon removal of deoxycholate by dialysis, each fraction assumes a characteristic vesicular arrangement. The membranes of each fraction are distinctive in both appearance and dimension. The triple-layered green membrane measures about 75 A while the thinner red membrane, 50 A, is uniformly electron dense. The results also suggest the mode of action of deoxycholate on mitochondrial membranes.
Minimum principle for Dirac scattering lengths

A minimum principle for the nonrelativistic scattering length was derived some years ago under the assumption that only a finite number of discrete states exist below the scattering threshold. The variational bound is applicable even when the bound-state wave functions are imprecisely known\char21{}they need only be accurate enough to give binding in a Rayleigh-Ritz calculation. The method is generalized here to apply to potential scattering described by the Dirac equation. An apparent difficulty associated with the existence of a continuum of negative-energy states, that is, the problem of ``variational collapse,'' is removed through the inclusion of second-order terms in the variational expression involving matrix elements of the square of the Dirac Hamiltonian. In the course of the derivation a relativistic version of the Hylleraas-Undheim theorem is developed. Applications of this theorem are described that provide a sufficient condition for the existence of a given number of bound states, lower bounds on the energy eigenvalues, and a systematic procedure for improving the accuracy of trial bound-state wave functions. A very simple model calculation was performed to illustrate the minimum property and the stability of the numerical procedure.
Mineral Insulated Cables for Post Accident Service

The regulatory requirement to measure the gamma radiation levels during accident conditions inside a reactor containment building is discussed. The development of a mineral-insulated cable and connector system to accurately transmit this measurement is described and a model of the response is developed.
Abstract B56: An exploratory analysis of alcohol consumption and cancer-related dietary risk among low-income African American women in Washington, DC

To ameliorate cancer disparities, closer examination of dietary quality by alcohol consumption patterns may generate a better understanding of nutritional inadequacies and how they can be addressed among low-income populations. The present study was an exploratory analysis of alcohol intake and dietary quality among 156 low-income, African American women living in public housing in Washington, DC, in 2000. At baseline, the study collected up to three 24-hour dietary recalls on nonconsecutive days for each participant, as well as a questionnaire on demographic, socioeconomic, health, lifestyle, and psychosocial characteristics. Recall data were analyzed for energy, fat, alcohol (1 serving=13.7 grams), and fruit and vegetable (FV) intake, and a Healthy Eating Index (HEI) score was created. Alcoholic beverages were grouped into four categories: beer and ale, cordial and liqueur, distilled liquor, and wine. Days in which alcohol was consumed were grouped as light (>0 to However, among drinkers only, total energy was higher and % energy from fat lower on drinking days compared to days without alcohol intake (2881.50 (197.26) kcal vs. 2385.38 (243.62) kcal, and 33.05% (1.44) vs. 37.48% (1.72), respectively). FV intake and HEI did not differ by drinking day. High rates of alcohol intake and overall poor dietary quality show the need for further work to look at dietary and alcohol patterns more closely to reduce cancer disparities. Citation Information: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2011;20(10 Suppl):B56.
Activation of factor IX by thrombin preparations in the absence of factor XI.

Abstract Factor IX was activated in factor XI deficient plasma and in normal plasma by thrombin preparations. Thrombin preparations also generated factor IXa activity from purified bovine factor IX. The yield of factor IXa activity was dependent upon the concentration of thrombin activity in the activation mixture. In addition, the activation of factor IX by thrombin preparations was found to be rapid and was not dependent upon the presence of phospholipids or calcium. Although calcium ions were not obligatory, almost twice as much factor IXa activity was generated in the presence of calcium ions as was generated without calcium. Among other functions, thrombin, in just the right concentration, might potentiate the effect of factor XIa on the activation of factor IX in normal hemostasis.
Saturated Fatty Acids Promote Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Liver Injury in Rats with Hepatic Steatosis

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a relatively new hepatic sequela of obesity and type 2 diabetes. The pathogenesis of liver injury and disease progression in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, however, is poorly understood. The present study examined the hypothesis that the composition of fatty acids in the steatotic liver promotes liver injury. Using dietary models of hepatic steatosis characterized by similar accumulation of total triglyceride but different composition of fatty acids, we show that hepatic steatosis characterized by increased saturated fatty acids is associated with increased liver injury and markers of endoplasmic reticulum stress (e.g. X-box binding protein-1 mRNA splicing and glucose-regulated protein 78 expression). These changes preceded and/or occurred independently of obesity and differences in leptin, TNFalpha, insulin action, and mitochondrial function. In addition, hepatic steatosis characterized by increased saturated fatty acids reduced proliferative capacity in response to partial hepatectomy and increased liver injury in response to lipopolysaccharide. These data suggest that the composition of fatty acids in the steatotic liver is an important determinant of susceptibility to liver injury.
Individual and Interactional Effects of β-Glucan, Starch, and Protein on Pasting Properties of Oat Flours

Seven experimental oat lines with high (6.2-7.2%), medium (5.5-5.9%), and low (4.4-5.3%) β-glucan concentrations were evaluated for contributions of β-glucan, starch, protein, and their interactions, to pasting properties of oat flours by using a Rapid Visco Analyser (RVA, Newport Scientific, Warriewood, NSW, Australia). Significant correlations (P < 0.05) between β-glucan concentration and pasting parameters of oat slurries were obtained under autolysis without 1 h of incubation, inhibition, and amylolysis. The relative decrease of viscosity after enzymatic hydrolysis of β-glucan correlated with β-glucan concentration (P < 0.05). These data demonstrated the important contribution of β-glucan to pasting. The relative decrease of viscosity after either amylolysis or enzymatic removal of protein correlated with β-glucan concentration (P<0.1), which might be explained by the considerable contribution of the interaction of β-glucan with starch and protein, to pasting. The viscosity decrease by hydrolysis of protein was much greater than the actual viscosity remaining after hydrolysis of both β-glucan and starch, reconfirming the importance of interactions between protein and other oat components to pasting. Optimal multiple linear regression (MLR) models were generated to predict key pasting parameters in both buffer without 1 h of incubation and silver nitrate solution by using a stepwise procedure. The β-glucan concentration alone or together with the concentration of starch, rather than protein, was selected as the predictor under certain conditions. These results illustrated the major unit contribution of β-glucan, secondary unit contribution of starch, and minimal unit contribution of protein to pasting.
Field Effects Induce Bathochromic Shifts in Xanthene Dyes

There is ongoing interest in near-infrared (NIR) absorbing and emitting dyes for a variety of biomedical and materials applications. Simple and efficient synthetic procedures enable the judicious tuning of through-space polar (field) effects as well as low barrier hydrogen bonding to modulate the HOMO-LUMO gap in xanthene dyes. This affords unique NIR-absorbing xanthene chromophores.
Effective thermal conductivity of a misoriented short fiber composite

This paper examines the effective thermal conductivity of a misoriented short fiber composite. The analysis is based on the equivalent inclusion method for steady‐state heat conduction in composite which we have recently proposed. The present approach is unique in that it takes into account the interaction among fibers at different orientations. Closed form solutions are given for the thermal conductivity of a misoriented short fiber composite. Then, numerical results are presented to demonstrate the effects of volume fraction, fiber aspect ratio, and distribution function of fiber orientation on the thermal conductivity.
The formation of stable salts of cation free radicals by uranium(V) complexes

Abstract Reaction of UOCl52− in CH3NO2 solution with phenazine (P) has produced a very stable cation free radical chloride salt, P H 2 Cl , which has been fully characterized by EPR and other methods Other studies have permitted speculation that the mechanism of the reaction involves attachment to the UO3+ entity of both P and H2O, followed by transfer to the P of both protons from the H2O and lone 5f electron from U(V), yielding P H 2 + and UO2Cl42−. UOBr52− yielded P H 2 Br . Analogously obtained were stable salts (either as Cl− or as UO2Cl42−) of cation free radicals of benzo[a]phenazine, dibenzo[a,c]-phenazine, 2,3-bis-(2-pyridyl)quinoxaline and acridine. Phenothiazine which requires one electron oxidation to form a free radical, 1,3-dimethylalloxazine and 3,10-dimethylisoalloxazine all reacted with UCl6− to yield the cation free radical as the UCl62− salt. This demonstrated that U(V) may serve either as a one-electron reducing agent in the form of UOCl52− (with H2O present, yielding the very stable UO2Cl42−) or as a one-electron oxidizing agent in the form of UCl6− (no H2O present, yielding the very stable UCl62−). Because of the biological significance of many of the foregoing heterocycles which have yielded free radicals with U(V), the work is being extended to the biologically important metal molybdenum in its IV, V and VI oxidation states.
A novel 78-kDa fatty acyl-CoA synthetase (ACS1) of Babesia bovis stimulates memory CD4+ T lymphocyte responses in B. bovis-immune cattle.

Antigen-specific CD4+ T lymphocyte responses contribute to protective immunity against Babesia bovis, however the antigens that induce these responses remain largely unknown. A proteomic approach was used to identify novel B. bovis antigens recognized by memory CD4+ T cells from immune cattle. Fractions obtained from merozoites separated by continuous-flow electrophoresis (CFE) that contained proteins ranging from 20 to 83 kDa were previously shown to stimulate memory CD4+ lymphocyte responses in B. bovis-immune cattle. Expression library screening with rabbit antiserum raised against an immunostimulatory CFE fraction identified a clone encoding a predicted 78 kDa protein. BLAST analysis revealed sequence identity of this B. bovis protein with Plasmodium falciparum fatty acyl coenzyme A synthetase (ACS) family members (PfACS1–PfACS11), and the protein was designated B. bovis acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (ACS1). Southern blot analysis indicated that B. bovis ACS1 is encoded by a single gene, although BLAST analysis of the preliminary B. bovis genome sequence identified two additional family members, ACS2 and ACS3. Peripheral blood lymphocytes and CD4+ T cell lines from B. bovis-immune cattle proliferated significantly against recombinant ACS1 protein, consistent with its predicted involvement in protective immunity. However, immune sera from cattle recovered from B. bovis infection did not react with ACS1, indicating that epitopes may be conformationally dependent.
Changes in use of long-acting contraceptive methods in the United States, 2007–2009

Objective To examine trends in the use of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods—the intrauterine device (IUD) and implant—and the extent to which these methods have replaced permanent sterilization and less effective short-acting methods. Design We tabulated data from female survey respondents overall and by demographic subgroups. We performed t -tests of the differences in the proportions of female contraceptors using LARC in 2007 and 2009. We also looked at use of LARC, sterilization, other methods, and no method among women at risk of unintended pregnancy. Setting In-home survey. Patient(s) All female respondents to the surveys. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Current use of LARC methods in 2009, and change in use from 2007. Result(s) The proportion of contraceptors using LARC increased significantly from 2.4% in 2002 to 3.7% in 2007 and 8.5% in 2009. The increase occurred among women in almost every age, race, education, and income group. Among women at risk of unintended pregnancy, increases in LARC use more than offset decreases in sterilization. Conclusion(s) LARC methods (primarily IUDs) are contributing to an increase in contraceptive effectiveness in the United States.
Conducting the G-protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR) Signaling Symphony in Cardiovascular Diseases: New Therapeutic Approaches

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a virtually ubiquitous class of membrane-bound receptors, which functionally couple hormone or neurotransmitter signals to physiological responses. Dysregulation of GPCR signaling contributes to the pathophysiology of a host of cardiovascular disorders. Pharmacological agents targeting GPCRs have been established as therapeutic options for decades. Nevertheless, the persistent burden of cardiovascular diseases necessitates improved treatments. To that end, exciting drug development efforts have begun to focus on novel compounds that discriminately activate particular GPCR signaling pathways.
Skyrmion-Antiskyrmion Mechanisms

The Skyrme model, a classical limit of QCD, when applied to annihilation gives a sensible account of the reaction mechanisms, the pion spectrum, and the branching ratios including those with vector mesons.
2,500 living donor kidney transplants: a single-center experience.

The first successful kidney transplants in humans were from identical twin living donors. 1,2 Although transplanted before the development of chemical immunosuppression, many of these identical twin grafts had long-term survival. With recognition of the immunosuppressive effects of prednisone and azathioprine, the use of nontwin donors became possible. 3,4 Considerable controversy soon followed as to whether it was ethical to use living donors for kidney transplantation. 5–8 Proponents of the use of living donors noted that the short- and long-term patient and graft survival rates were better after living (vs. cadaver) donor transplants. Opponents worried that living donor nephrectomy was a major operation with potential risk to the donor; they believed that these risks did not justify the benefits to the recipient. Our program has always advocated the use of living donors. We recognized the risks to the donor but decided that a fully informed potential donor could choose whether to accept these risks. In the last decade, as a result of improvements in patient care, optimization of immunosuppressive protocols, and the introduction of new immunosuppressive agents, outcome for both living and cadaver donor recipients has markedly improved. Despite this improvement, for the patient considering a transplant, the single prospective decision that most positively affects long-term outcome continues to be to have a living donor transplant. We herein describe our entire living donor experience. Between January 1, 1963, and December 31, 1998, we performed 2,540 living donor kidney transplants at the University of Minnesota. Immunosuppressive protocols have evolved over time, and since 1983, our protocols have been cyclosporine-based. Dosing and blood levels have been optimized. We emphasize the improvement in outcome as protocols have evolved, the results that can be expected with cyclosporine- and azathioprine-based immunosuppression, and the risk factors for worse long-term outcome.
WHO'S PERSISTING IN ENGINEERING? A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FEMALE AND MALE ASIAN, BLACK, HISPANIC, NATIVE AMERICAN, AND WHITE STUDENTS

Interest in increasing the number of engineering graduates in the United States and promoting gender equality and diversifi cation of the profession has encouraged considerable research on women and minorities in engineering programs. Drawing on a framework of intersectionality theory, this study recognizes that women of different ethnic backgrounds warrant disaggregated analysis because they do not necessarily share a common experience in engineering education. Using a longitudinal, comprehensive dataset of more than 79,000 students who matriculated in engineering at nine universities, this research examines the question: How does the persistence of engineering students (measured as enrollment to the eighth semester) vary by disaggregated combinations of gender and race/ethnicity? Findings reveal that for Asian, Black, Hispanic, Native American, and White students, women who matriculate in engineering are most likely to persist in engineering compared to other eighth-semester destinations and, except for Native Americans, do so at rates comparable to those of men. Thus, contrary to considerable popular opinion that there is a gender gap in persistence, the low representation of women in the later years of engineering programs is primarily a refl ection of their low representation at matriculation.
Transdermal delivery of antiparkinsonian agent, benztropine. I. Effect of vehicles on skin permeation.

The influence of pH and various lipophilic and hydrophilic vehicles on the epidermal permeation of benztropine (BZ) free base and its mesylate salt were studied in vitro using the hairless mouse (HLM) and human cadaver (HC) skin membranes. The pH-partition behavior of BZ base (pK(a)=10) was examined using n-octanol and Britton-Robinson buffers over the pH range of 5-12. Unexpectedly, the ionized species of BZ yielded a high partition coefficient (log K(octanol/water)=2. 14), which was reflected by its relatively high skin permeability (P=1.6x10(-2)cm h(-1)). BZ base delivered from a lipophilic vehicle with a solubility parameter range of 7.1-10.3 (cal cm(3))(1/2) exhibited a significantly enhanced rate of permeation as compared to that attained from a hydrophilic vehicle of solubility parameter range between 12.5-23.4 (cal cm(3))(1/2). Among the neat solvents examined, a lipophilic carrier, isopropyl myristate (IPM) provided the most enhancing effect on the permeation of BZ base. In addition, the neat IPM carrier offered the maximum BZ base flux of 150 microg per cm(2) h(-1) across HC skin, which was approximately 16 times greater than the target delivery rate of BZ from a 10-cm(2) device. In comparison, BZ base exhibited a 2-60 times greater flux than BZ mesylate when delivered from the neat solvents. However, interestingly enough, the binary cosolvents consisting of IPM and short-chain alkanols such as ethanol (EtOH), isopropanol (iPrOH), and tertiary butanol (tBtOH), in particular a 2:8 combination, produced a marked synergistic enhancement of BZ flux from the mesylate salt, whereas a retarding effect was noticed for the permeation of BZ base. The enhancement potency for the BZ mesylate permeation increased linearly with the carbon number of the branched alcohols present in the binary mixtures. A tBtOH-IPM (2:8) combination produced the highest BZ flux from the mesylate salt, i.e. , 2016 mg per cm(2) h(-1), which was 100-fold greater than from water and 44-540-fold greater than the individual neat solvents, respectively. The observed permeation enhancement of BZ mesylate by the alkanol-IPM mixtures was probably as a result of a combination of decreasing barrier ability of the stratum corneum by the binary vehicles and moderately partitioning BZ mesylate through the viable epidermis/dermis.
Interpretation of a gravity profile across the western Snake River Plain, Idaho

The gravity and magnetic anomalies over the western Snake River Plain suggest that the plain is underlain by a layer of dense magnetic rock that may be the Miocene Columbia River Basalt Group and by a thin upper crust. The western Snake River Plain may have formed as a rift in Miocene time in response to northeast lateral spreading with the accumulation of more than a kilometre of basalt in the rift. The plain apparently is now in approximate isostatic balance with adjoining highlands.
Brief paper: Reachability and observability of linear impulsive systems

Linear impulsive systems constitute a class of hybrid systems in which the state propagates according to linear continuous-time dynamics except for a countable set of times at which the state can change instantaneously. While in general these impulsive effects can be time-driven and/or event-driven, here we focus our attention on the time-driven case. For this class of systems, we address the fundamental concepts of reachability and observability. In particular, we present a geometric characterization of the reachable and unobservable sets in terms of invariant subspaces and provide algorithms for their construction.
A toxic cardiac reaction to drugs absorbed percutaneously.

A 2-month-old boy became critically ill with heart block, congestive heart failure, and convulsions after the cutaneous application of cyclomethycaine and methapyrilene hydrochloride in the treatment of extensive seborrheic dermatitis. Following removal of the drugs from the abraided skin surface and the application of some general supportive measures, the patient made an uneventful recovery and was free of sequelae. The toxic effects of local anesthetics and antihistaminics are briefly reviewed.