cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Time lag to benefit after screening for breast and colorectal cancer: meta-analysis of survival data from the United States, Sweden, United Kingdom, and Denmark

Objectives To determine a pooled, quantitative estimate of the length of time needed after breast or colorectal cancer screening before a survival benefit is observed. Design Meta-analysis of survival data from population based, randomized controlled trials comparing populations screened and not screened for breast or colorectal cancer. Trials were identified as high quality by reviews from the Cochrane Collaboration and United States Preventive Services Task Force. Setting Trials undertaken in the United States, Denmark, United Kingdom, and Sweden. Population Screened patients older than 40 years. Primary outcome measures Time to death from breast or colorectal cancer in screened and control populations. Interventions Fecal occult blood testing for colorectal cancer screening, mammography for breast cancer screening. Results Our study included five and four eligible trials of breast and colorectal cancer screening, respectively. For breast cancer screening, 3.0 years (95% confidence interval 1.1 to 6.3) passed before one death from breast cancer was prevented for every 5000 women screened. On average across included studies, it took 10.7 years (4.4 to 21.6) before one death from breast cancer was prevented for 1000 women screened. For colorectal cancer screening, 4.8 years (2.0 to 9.7) passed before one death from colorectal cancer was prevented for 5000 patients screened. On average across included studies, it took 10.3 years (6.0 to 16.4) before one death from colorectal cancer was prevented for 1000 patients screened. Conclusions Our results suggest that screening for breast and colorectal cancer is most appropriate for patients with a life expectancy greater than 10 years. Incorporating time lag estimates into screening guidelines would encourage a more explicit consideration of the risks and benefits of screening for breast and colorectal cancer.
Growth of nerve fibers into skin and muscle graffs in rat brains

Abstract Cortical nerve fiber regeneration was studied in 72 adult male rats. Pieces of skin or striated muscle were inserted into the cerebral cortex, and the animals were sacrificed 3, 6, 9, or 12 weeks following the operation. Twenty-four operated animals were used as untreated controls and compared with 48 animals administered ACTH, DOCA, or cortisone. Cortical nerve fibers regenerated more successfully into and around grafts of striated muscle than skin, regardless of postoperative treatment. In the animals with skin grafts, greatest cortical regeneration was observed following administration of DOCA. Cortical regeneration evidently was not benefited by the administration of cortisone, even though mesodermal scar proliferation was effectively reduced. The brains of animals showing the least amount of compact neuroglial scar stratification revealed the greatest numbers of regenerated fibers.
Strong partition cardinals and determinacy in $${K(\mathbb{R})}$$K(R)

We prove within $${K(\mathbb{R})}$$ K ( R ) that the axiom of determinacy is equivalent to the assertion that for each ordinal $${\lambda \lambda}$$ ? > ? . Here $${\Theta}$$ ? is the supremum of the ordinals which are the surjective image of the set of reals $${\mathbb{R}}$$ R .
Fluorescence Study of Hydrophobically Modified Polyelectrolytes in Aqueous Solution: Effect of Micellization

Fluorescence emission techniques were applied to the study of aqueous solutions of a hydrophobically modified polyelectrolyte, a block copolymer of sodium poly(styrenesulfonate) (NaPSS) and poly(tert-butylstyrene) (PtBS). At low concentrations, the spectrum of NaPSS/PtBS is essentially identical to that obtained for NaPSS homopolymer. Above a certain concentration, which we identify as corresponding to the critical micelle concentration (cmc), substantial differences are noted in the spectra. Specifically, an increase in the intensity of the excimer peak at 330 nm is observed for the diblock solution relative to the homopolymer solution. The cmc is estimated to be in the range of 2 × 10-7 to 2 × 10-6 g/g for the diblock.
Kinematics of the glenohumeral joint: Influences of muscle forces, ligamentous constraints, and articular geometry

Despite recent interest in the study of shoulder kinematics, there is considerable controversy in the literature regarding translations at the glenohumeral joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate the key factors that control shoulder motions, thus leading to a better understanding of joint function. Translation and rotation patterns were studied in fresh-frozen glenohumeral joints of human cadavers with a six-degrees-of-freedom magnetic tracking device. Shoulders were positioned from maximal internal to external rotation at several arm positions (various elevations and planes of motion). In order to determine the effect of muscle forces, joints were positioned both actively and passively. Additionally, articular surface geometry and ligament origin-insertion wrap lengths were measured to assess their influences on joint kinematics. When joints were positioned passively, large translations were observed at the extremes of motion. With active positioning, muscle forces tended to limit humeral head translations, principally by restricting rotational ranges of motion. However, when data from the passive model were reanalyzed by considering only the rotational ranges of motion seen actively, no significant differences in translation were found between the two models. Joint conformity was found to have a significant influence on translations during active positioning but not during passive positioning. Glenohumeral ligament wrap lengths, however, correlated with translations when joints were positioned passively but not when positioned actively. Findings from this study emphasize the importance of muscle forces in keeping the humeral head centered in the glenoid. Although large translations are possible, they can be achieved only with increases in rotational ranges of motion associated with the removal of muscle force. Additionally, joint conformity appears to play a role in controlling translations during active motions, whereas capsular constraints become more important during passive motions.
Representations of Deaf Characters in Children's Picture Books

Picture books can influence how children perceive people of different backgrounds, including people with disabilities whose cultures differ from their own. Researchers have examined the portrayal of multicultural characters with disabilities in children's literature. However, few have specifically considered the portrayal of deaf characters, despite increased inclusion of deaf characters in children's literature over the past two decades. The present study analyzed the portrayal of deaf characters in picture books for children ages 4-8 years. A content analysis of 20 children's picture books was conducted in which the books were analyzed for messages linked to pathological and cultural categories. Results indicated that these books did not portray Deaf characters from a cultural perspective but, rather, highlighted aspects of deafness as a medical condition, one that requires fixing and that perpetuates stereotypes of deafness as a disability.
A precise determination of the first ionization potential of benzene

Abstract The first ionization potentials of benzene and benzene- d 6 have been precisely determined by the extrapolation of three-photon resonant Rydberg states in the four-photon ionization spectrum of the jet-cooled molecule. The convergence of resolved transitions in two Rydberg series for principal quantum numbers as high as 14 (- h 6 ) and 15 (- d 6 ) establish adiabatic thtesholds of 74573.0 ± 2.0 cm −1 , and 74592.5 = ± 1.2 cm −1 , respectively. These results are crucial for the understanding of the many excited states of benzene in terms of quantum defect theory. Precise quantum defects have been obtained for several Rydberg series and their variation with principal quantum number is reported. The results strongly suggest that the R‴ series of Wilkinson is derived from aπ(e 1g )→ n f±1 Rydberg excitation.
The percentage of CD31+ T cells decreases after open but not laparoscopic surgery

Background: Efficient killing of tumor cells depends on T cells that migrate from the circulation to the peripheral tissues; these cells express CD31. This study was undertaken to determine the impact of open (OS) and laparoscopic (LS) colorectal surgery on the percentage of circulating CD3+CD31+ cells. Methods: Peripheral blood was collected from 27 OS and 24 LS colon cancer patients preoperatively (preOP) and on postoperative days 1 (POD1) and 3 (POD3). CD31+ T cells were assessed by flow cytometry using monoclonal antibodies. Results: In the OS group, the percentage of CD3+CD31+ cells was significantly lower in POD1 and POD3 samples compared to the preOP results. LS surgery did not result in a significant change in the percentage of these T cells. A significant correlation was found between the decrease in the percentage of CD3+CD31+ cells and the length of incision in OS patients. Conclusions: The percentage of CD3+CD31+ cells decreases following OS but not LS and may be related to incision length. This may compromise T cell function in the peripheral tissues in the postoperative period.
MODELING THE EFFECTS OF LEGALLY RELEVANT AND EXTRALEGAL FACTORS UNDER SENTENCING GUIDELINES: THE RULES HAVE CHANGED

Studies of sentencing in jurisdictions with sentencing guidelines have generally failed to specify adequately the effects of offense seriousness and criminal history—the principal factors that, by law, should determine sentencing decisions. As a result, the explanatory power of those models is seriously limited, and regression coefficients representing both legal and extralegal factors may be biased. We present an alternative approach to specify more precisely the effects of legally relevant factors on sentencing outcomes and test the approach using felony sentencing data from Washington State. We find that controlling for the presumptive sentence substantially improves the fit and explanatory power of models predicting sentencing decisions, and that the estimated effects of extralegal factors, specifically sex and race, reduce considerably. The findings have both substantive and methodological implications.
Correlated ab Initio Electronic Structure Calculations for Large Molecules

We discuss computational methods for carrying out correlated ab initio electronic structure calculations for large systems. The focus is on two types of methods: density functional theory (DFT) and localized orbital methods such as local MP2 (LMP2) and a multireference version based upon a generalized valence bond reference wave function, GVB-LMP2. The computational performance of both approaches using pseudospectral numerical methods is documented, and calculated thermochemical and conformational energetics are compared to experimental data.
Body dehydration in xeric adapted rodents: Does the renin—Angiotensin system play a role?

Abstract 1. 1. Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) angiotensin 2 (A2) levels, plasma Na + concentration, osmolality, and hematocrits were measured in desert and nondesert rodents during food and water deprivation induced dehydration. 2. 2. During food deprivation, polydipsia was observed in the xerophilous species ( Dipodomys spectabilis and Meriones unguiculatus ), while decreased water consumption was evident in the mesically adapted species ( Rattus norvegicus ). All species revealed reductions in intravascular volume during fasting with no change in plasma or CSF A2 levels. 3. 3. A five-fold elevation in plasma A2 was observed in water deprived rats while the desert rodents evidenced only slight elevations. There were no changes in CSF A2 concentrations in response to water deprivation. 4. 4. Plasma osmolality was chronically elevated during water deprivation in all species. 5. 5. The present findings question the importance of the renin-angiotensin system in the normal maintenance of body water balance by desert rodents subjected to dehydration challenges.
Acid and organic aerosol coatings on magnetic nanoparticles increase iron concentrations in human airway epithelial cells

Numerous industrial applications for man-made nanoparticles have been proposed. Interactions of nanoparticles with agents in the atmosphere may impact human health. We tested the postulate that in vitro exposures of respiratory epithelial cells to airborne magnetic nanoparticles (MNP; Fe(3)O(4)) with and without a secondary organic aerosol (SOA) and an inorganic acid could affect iron homeostasis, oxidative stress, and interleukin (IL)-8 release. Cell iron concentrations were increased after exposures to MNP and values were further elevated with co-exposures to either SOA or inorganic acid. Increased expression of ferritin and elevated levels of RNA for DMT1, proteins for iron storage and transport respectively, followed MNP exposures, but values were significant for only those with co-exposures to inorganic acid and organic aerosols. Cell iron concentration corresponded to a measure of oxidative stress in the airway epithelial cells; MNP with co-exposures to SOA and inorganic acid increased both available metal and indices of oxidant generation. Finally, the release of a proinflammatory cytokine (i.e. IL-8) by the exposed cells similarly increased with cell iron concentration. We conclude that MNP can interact with a SOA and an inorganic acid to present metal in a catalytically reactive state to cultured respiratory cells. This produces an oxidative stress to affect a release of IL-8.
Families of Children with Serious Emotional Disturbances: Parent Perceptions of Family Resources and Stressors

This study addresses the dearth of research on families of children with serious emotional disturbances (SEDs) by examining parents’ perceptions of their families’ resources and stressors. Parent and/or guardian responses on the Family Inventory of Resources and Stressors (FIRST) whose children were receiving treatment for SEDs (n = 80) were compared to those with children without SEDs (n = 48). One-way ANCOVA analyses revealed that, when controlling for income and education level, families of children with SEDs reported significantly greater stress levels than families of children without SEDs, but both groups reported similar levels of resources. The principles derived from this study provide critical information for treatment providers and researchers seeking to develop an in-depth understanding of the resources and stressors of families of children with SEDs so as to more effectively collaborate with them in treatment planning.
Focal cooling rapidly terminates experimental neocortical seizures.

The efficacy of surgical resection for epilepsy is considerably lower for neocortical epilepsy than for temporal lobe epilepsy. We have explored focal cooling with a thermoelectric (Peltier) device as a potential therapy for neocortical epilepsy. After creating a cranial window in anesthetized rats, we induced seizures by injecting artificial cerebrospinal fluid containing 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), a potassium channel blocker. Within 30 minutes of 4-AP injection, animals developed recurrent seizures (duration 85.7 +/- 26.2 seconds; n = 10 rats) that persisted for 2 hours. When a small Peltier device cooled the exposed cortical surface to 20-25 degrees C at seizure onset, the seizure duration was reduced to 8.4 +/- 5.0 seconds (n = 10 rats; p 0.05 compared to control). Interestingly, the duration of uncooled seizures was reduced after we allowed the cortex to rewarm from prior cooling. Histological examination of the cortex after cooling has shown no evidence of acute or delayed neuronal injury, and blood pressure and temperature remained stable. It may be possible to use Peltier devices for cortical mapping or, when seizure detection algorithms improve, for chronic seizure control.
Oocytes of baboon fetal primordial ovarian follicles express estrogen receptor β mRNA

In fetal ovaries of estrogen-suppressed baboons, we have previously shown that follicle numbers were 50% lower than in estrogen-replete animals and contained oocytes with a reduced number of microvilli. In the baboon fetal ovary, although estrogen receptor (ER)α and β have been detected by immunocytochemistry in granulosa cells, it is not known whether oocytes express ER. Because the actions of estrogen are mediated by interaction with cell-specific receptors, the current study determined whether ERα/β mRNA were expressed in oocytes of baboon fetal ovaries obtained on day 165 (term = day 184) of gestation. Oocyte nuclei and cytoplasm from primordial follicles were isolated by laser capture microdissection and ERα, ERβ, GATA-4 (granulosa cell specific marker) mRNAs, and 18S rRNA determined by RT-PCR and products verified by sequencing. ERβ mRNA was expressed in oocytes of 5 of 5 fetuses. In contrast, fetal oocytes did not express ERα mRNA. Although 18S rRNA was expressed in all oocytes, GATA-4 mRNA was not detected in oocytes and only detected in granulosa cells confirming purity of oocytes sampled. We conclude that oocytes of the fetal baboon ovary express ERβ mRNA, thereby providing a mechanism by which estrogen regulates oocyte function, e.g. microvillus development.
A Service Evolution Supporting Smart Meeting Room System

Obtaining user requirement changes promptly has become a key of the rapid service evolution. Carl K. Chang et al proposed a Situ frame which can promptly obtain user requirement changes through user intention changes identified by user behavior. This paper designs a Smart Meeting Room System(SMRS) based on Situ framework. According to the user action sequence segmenting problem while inferring user intention in SMRS, this paper proposes a user action sequence segmenting approach based on scenario and max entropy, which can effectively support user intention identification. The approach is illustrated by a user action sequence segmenting process instance at the end of this paper.
Collaborative reactive behavior in heterogeneous wireless sensor networks

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) which contain heterogeneous nodes and monitor multiple phenomena present a unique set of challenges in regards to efficient management of reactive behavior. The ECA (on Event if Condition then Action) paradigm from Active Databases offers a solution via event-based synchronization which provides reduced energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring. In our demo, we show how to utilize this approach via compilation of system-level ECA triggers to mote-specific trigger code. We also demonstrate the practicality of the approach by constructing a heterogeneous WSN of TelosB/SunSPOT motes and using our tools to implement reactive behaviors based on temperature/luminance data.
Benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal : a review of the syndrome and its clinical management

The treatment of anxiety has evolved through various phases. Currently, there is a growing recognition that anxiety disorders are frequently chronic and/or recurrent. There is also less optimism than a decade ago that benzodiazepines will be replaced by alternative agents that are not active at the benzodiazepine receptor. Consequently, the understanding and management of benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal continue to be of some clinical importance. This article briefly reviews the withdrawal syndrome and the pharmacological and patient variables that contribute to it. It then summarizes the various approaches to managing benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal.
DIET AND CANCER

Summary Epidemiologic studies and experimental research strongly suggest that dietary factors are causally related to several major types of cancer. Carcinogens may function as initiators or promoters of tumors, and the evidence suggests that various dietary hypotheses should be tested. This review includes selected data from the literature and current epidemiologic studies of the Cancer Research Center, University of Hawaii, which illustrate the variations of diet and cancer incidence among diverse ethnic populations.
Women's Appraisals of Sexual-Assault Risk in Dating Situations

This study investigated how 165 female college students appraised their sexual-assault risk in a hypothetical dating situation. A 2 × 2 × 2 between-subjects experiment investigating the effects of male-dating-partner characteristics, story character beverage consumption, and perspective on women's risk appraisals was conducted. Multivariate analyses of variance were performed to test hypotheses regarding the feelings of the dating woman and the occurrence of sexual behaviors. Although the dating woman was rated as feeling more vulnerable on dates when alcohol was consumed, alcohol consumption did not influence ratings regarding the dating man committing nonconsensual sexual acts. Nonconsensual sexual behaviors were rated as more probable when the man had rape-congruent characteristics and when the participants were judging another woman rather than themselves. These findings suggest that women are partially accurate in making sexual-assault risk appraisals and thus may benefit from rape prevention educati...
Inbreeding and mating patterns in Drosophila pseudoobscura.

Inbreeding, up to 12 generations of single-pair matings, did not cause significant deviation from random mating among two sets of strains inDrosophila pseudoobscura. This contrasts with reports that inbreedingD. melanogaster induces negative assortative mating among lines.
Nonparoxysmal Junctional Tachycardia Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction

Twenty-one instances of nonparoxysmal junctional tachycardia (NPJT) were observed in 203 consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction. The arrhythmia complicated both anterior and inferior wall infarction and was associated with an ominous prognosis, particularly in patients with anteror wall infarction. The NPJT is probably a manifestation of the severity of the lesion. The exact mechanisms of the enhanced A-V junctional activity remain obscure. The possible role of increased levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine and localized increases of potassium in the A-V junction from adjacent necrotic myocardium is suggested.
The intraoperative Surgical Apgar Score predicts postdischarge complications after colon and rectal resection.

Background We previously developed an intraoperative 10-point Surgical Apgar Score—based on blood loss, lowest heart rate, and lowest mean arterial pressure—to predict major complications after colorectal resection. However, because complications often arise after uncomplicated hospitalizations, we sought to evaluate whether this intraoperative metric would predict postdischarge complications after colectomy. Methods We linked our institution's National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database with an Anesthesia Intraoperative Management System for all colorectal resections over 4 years. Using Chi-square trend tests and logistic regression, we evaluated the Surgical Apgar Score's prediction for major postoperative complications before and after discharge. Results Among 795 colectomies, there were 230 (29%) major complications within 30 days; 45 (20%) after uncomplicated discharges. Surgical Apgar Scores predicted both inpatient complications and late postdischarge complications (both P Conclusion The intraoperative Surgical Apgar Score remained a useful metric for predicting postcolectomy complications arising after uncomplicated discharges. Even late complications may thus be related to intraoperative condition and events. Surgeons could use this intraoperative metric to target low-scoring patients for intensive postdischarge surveillance and mitigation of postdischarge complications after colectomy.
Novel Treatment for Geriatric Hoarding Disorder: An Open Trial of Cognitive Rehabilitation Paired with Behavior Therapy

Objectives To investigate the feasibility of an age-adapted, manualized behavioral treatment for geriatric hoarding. Methods Participants were 11 older adults (mean age: 66 years) with hoarding disorder. Treatment encompassed 24 individual sessions of psychotherapy that included both cognitive rehabilitation targeting executive functioning and exposure to discarding/not acquiring. Hoarding severity was assessed at baseline, mid-treatment, and posttreatment. Results Results demonstrated clinically and statistically significant changes in hoarding severity at posttreatment. No participants dropped out of treatment. Eight participants were classified as treatment responders, and three as partial responders. Partial responders reported severe/extreme hoarding and psychiatric comorbidities at baseline. Conclusions The combination of cognitive rehabilitation and exposure therapy is a promising approach in the treatment of geriatric hoarding. Targeting neurocognitive deficits in behavioral therapy for these geriatric patients with hoarding disorder doubled response rates relative to our previous trial of cognitive behavior therapy alone.
Advancing Human Circadian Rhythms with Afternoon Melatonin and Morning Intermittent Bright Light

Context: Both light and melatonin can be used to phase shift the human circadian clock, but the phase-advancing effect of the combination has not been extensively investigated. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine whether phase advances induced by morning intermittent bright light and a gradually advancing sleep schedule could be increased with afternoon melatonin. Participants: Healthy adults (25 males, 19 females, between the ages of 19 and 45 yr) participated in the study. Design: There were 3 d of a gradually advancing sleep/dark period (wake time 1 h earlier each morning), bright light on awakening [four 30-min bright-light pulses (∼5000 lux) alternating with 30 min room light < 60 lux] and afternoon melatonin, either 0.5 or 3.0 mg melatonin timed to induce maximal phase advances, or matching placebo. The dim light melatonin onset was measured before and after the treatment to determine the phase advance. Results: There were significantly larger phase advances with 0.5 mg (2.5 h, n ...
Novel rapid method for visualization of extent and location of aerosol contamination during high-speed sorting of potentially biohazardous samples.

Background: Containment of potentially biohazardous aerosols that result from high-speed sorting of human cells has been an increasingly important problem in analytical cytometry. The current method for assessing the efficiency of aerosol containment involves detection of aerosols containing sorted T4 bacteriophage on lawns of T4susceptible Escherichia coli on plates that are placed in and around the sort area. Although this method is sensitive, it is time consuming and involves maintenance and handling of bacteria and sorting of bacteriophage that may themselves serve as sources of contamination for sorted viable human cells. Methods: Glo Germ™ (5-mm melamine copolymer resin beads), which are fluorescent under black light illumination, were sorted on a Beckman-Coulter Elite ESP sorter in order to visualize deposition of aerosols under normal and mock failure modes. Results: Glo Germ was successfully used under both normal sorting conditions, as well as mock failure mode, to visualize aerosol formation. Conclusions: We have developed a method to examine aerosol containment using modified Glo Germ, a product used for teaching aseptic technique in hospitals, industry, restaurants, and schools. Use of this technique represents a rapid, inexpensive, qualitative analysis of the extent and location of aerosol contamination from cell sorters. Cytometry 43:217‐222, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Key terms: flow cytometry; biohazard; occupational health and safety; cell sorting; aerosol containment One of the major advantages of flow cytometers is the ability to separate cell populations based on cell size, cell density, or fluorescence. With this advantage often comes the need for analyzing viable biological specimens. These can harbor unknown as well as known pathogens, such as the hepatitis viruses and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). As part of the normal operation of the cell sorter, pressurized fluid exits a vibrating nozzle and forms droplets. The droplets containing the desired cells are electrostatically charged and are deflected into receptacles. The potential hazard to the operator occurs with the normal formation of aerosols of small and microdroplets (size range: 40 ‐200 mm and 3‐7 mm, respectively). Secondary aerosols can also be formed when the sorting streams splash into receptacles (1,2). In addition, aerosols can increase during failure modes of the cell sorter such as a clogged tip, air in the fluidics system, or other instrumental malfunction. Because aerosols have been shown to be of importance in the spread of infectious diseases (3‐ 6), the safety of the operator and individuals around the sorter could be compromised. Because of the inherent risk involved, the International Society for Analytical Cy
Hypoxic modulation of cardiac L-type Ca2+ current: Interaction of reactive oxygen species and β-adrenergic signaling

See article by Hool et al. [5] (pages 624–635) in this issue . Sarcolemmal L -type Ca2+ channels are integral components of the excitation–contraction coupling mechanism in cardiomyocytes. Membrane depolarization to −30 mV opens these channels [1], allowing rapid influx of Ca2+ which peaks within 2–3 ms [2]. This inward Ca2+ current ( I Ca) produces the plateau phase of the cardiomyocyte action potential and triggers a massive release of Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum via ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ channels, arrayed in close proximity to the L -type channels. The resultant cytosolic Ca2+ transient activates crossbridge cycling and mechanical force production by the contractile machinery and inactivates the L -type Ca2+ current [2]. Cardiac L -type channels contain four subunits (α1C, α2, β2, δ) [1,2]. Each of the four homologous domains of the large α1C subunit harbor six membrane-spanning α helices; helices 5 and 6 of the four α1C domains combine to form a Ca2+ pore [2]. L -type Ca2+ current is physiologically regulated by protein kinases that covalently modify the α1C subunit to modulate intrinsic channel gating properties. β-Adrenergic activity increases I Ca via protein kinase A phosphorylation of Ser-1928 of α1C [2] (Fig. 1), which shifts gating behavior of the channels from mode 0 (rarely or never open) to modes 1 (low open probability; channels open only briefly) and 2 (high open probability; prolonged opening of channels) [1,3]. This mechanism contributes importantly to β-adrenergic enhancement of myocardial contractile performance. Protein kinase C may phosphorylate Thr-27 and/or Thr-31 near the amino terminus of α1C, producing either … *Tel.: +1 817 735 2260; fax: +1 817 735 5084. Email address: malletr{at}hsc.unt.edu
Neutronic evaluation of a PWR with fully ceramic microencapsulated fuel. Part II: Nodal core calculations and preliminary study of thermal hydraulic feedback

Abstract The fully ceramic microencapsulated (FCM) fuel is based on the tri-isotropic (TRISO) carbon coated fuel particles. These particles were developed and demonstrated for use in high temperature gas reactors. It has been proposed to use these particles in light water reactors to provide potential operational and safety benefits. The reference fuel in this case assumes TRISO-like particles with a ∼20%-enriched uranium-nitride kernel embedded in a silicon carbide (SiC) matrix. The fuel particles are contained in a “compact” which is then inserted into a cladding. The fuel assembly features the same dimensions as a standard 17 × 17 Westinghouse fuel assembly. FCM fuel requires fission products to traverse several barriers in the proposed fuel design before reaching the cladding. FCM fuel may also reduce fuel-cladding interaction and fuel pellet swelling while enabling higher fuel burn-up. This study is a neutronic evaluation of the use of FCM fuel in an advanced pressurized water reactor (PWR). On the lattice level, the SERPENT Monte Carlo and TRITON deterministic tools were used, while the whole core simulation was based on the three-dimensional PARCS nodal code. The present paper focuses on two of the issues associated with this proposed implementation: specifically the development of a reasonable reference full-core model of an advanced PWR with FCM fuel and the response of the PWR to a reactivity insertion accident (RIA). This work addresses the issues of the increased power density and transients that occur on short time-scales in a PWR. In this case, the RIA takes the form of a control rod ejection for a typical PWR reactor. This results in a sudden increase in power and a corresponding increase in fuel kernel temperature. In the case of a PWR, this response is more demanding than in the case of a gas-cooled reactor, because the kinetic parameters and feedback coefficients of the two reactors are quite different. The parameters for the fuel and matrix material in the PARCS thermal–hydraulic module were modified to reflect the different geometry and materials. Preliminary data for both un-irradiated and irradiated SiC were obtained from the literature and included in the analyses. A super prompt critical RIA produces an average energy deposition (
Determination of local effects for chloroaluminate ionic liquids on Diels–Alder reactions

Room temperature ionic liquids are an exciting class of solvents that have the potential to accelerate and control a vast range of reactions. The Diels-Alder reaction, paradigm in organic synthesis, highlights the advantages provided by ionic liquids as the reaction between cyclopentadiene and methyl acrylate in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroaluminate and heptachlorodialuminate [EMIM][AlCl(4)] and [EMIM][Al(2)Cl(7)], respectively, has been reported to react with rates over 200 times faster and endo selectivity 10 times greater than commonly used reaction conditions. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the B3LYP/6-311+G(2d,p) theory level have been employed to determine the origin of the reported rate accelerations. The DFT simulations find that specific hydrogen bonding between the ionic liquid cations and the dienophile at the transition state is primarily responsible, however, the rate of reaction was found to be moderated by the solvent's hydrogen bond accepting ability (anion effect). Different anion-to-cation ratios were tested and a 1:1 ratio was determined to give the best agreement with experimental observations. The computed DFT activation barriers were within reasonable agreement of the reported rates, however it is clear that a full microenvironment featuring hundreds of ions is necessary for proper computational treatment of the solvent effects delivered by the ionic liquids.
Coexisting cycles in a class of 3-D discrete maps

In this paper we consider the class of three-dimensional discrete maps M (x, y, z ) = [φ (y ), φ (z ), φ (x )], where φ : ℝ → ℝ is an endomorphism. We show that all the cycles of the 3-D map M can be obtained by those of φ (x ), as well as their local bifurcations. In particular we obtain that any local bifurcation is of co-dimension 3, that is three eigenvalues cross simultaneously the unit circle. As the map M exhibits coexistence of cycles when φ (x ) has a cycle of period n ≥ 2, making use of the Myrberg map as endomorphism, we describe the structure of the basins of attraction of the attractors of M and we study the effect of the flip bifurcation of a fixed point.
Specifying the arc length of Be´zier curves

Abstract Theorems and algorithms are presented for the generation of a Bezier Curve of a prescribed arc length subject to interpolation conditions for given endpoints and unit tangent vectors. The curve produced will also be convex if the end conditions are compatible with such convexity. The problem of finding such a curve is reduced to solving for the root of a monotone increasing function of one variable. The resulting algorithms are guaranteed to converge rapidly, and starting values for the iterations are determined automatically.
Functional Consequences of Large1 Overexpression in Two Distinct Forms of Muscular Dystrophy

Dystroglycan and the sarcoglycan complex are two essential components of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex. Mutations that lead to hypoglycosylation of dystroglycan result in various limb-girdle and congenital muscular dystrophies referred to as dystroglycanopathies. Mutations in the genes that encode for sarcoglycans are associated with limb-girdle muscular dystrophies referred to as sarcoglycanopathies. Overexpression of the glycosyltransferase LARGE1 induces hyperglycosylation of dystroglycan and bypasses glycosylation defects present in several distinct dystroglycanopathies. Whether LARGE1 ovexpression improves contractile properties in dystroglycanopathies and whether the efficacy of LARGE1 overexpression extends to sarcoglycanopathy has not been evaluated. We tested the hypothesis that muscle specific LARGE1 overexpression reduces pathology, increases force production, and protects muscles of mice deficient in LARGE1 (LARGEmyd mice) or β-sarcoglycan (Sgcb-null mice) from contraction-induced injury. Mice with LARGE1 overexpression driven by the muscle creatine kinase promoter were crossed with LARGEmyd and Sgcb-null mice. Extensor digitorum longus muscles were isolated, specific forces measured, and force deficits after lengthening contractions were assessed. Functional expression of LARGE1 overexpression and dystroglycan hyperglycosylation were observed. LARGE1 overexpression in LARGEmyd mice reduced pathology and improved specific force and force deficit to wild-type levels. In contrast, overexpression had no beneficial effect for Sgcb-null mice. The results suggest that the efficacy of muscle specific LARGE1 overexpression may be limited to dystroglycanopathies.
The relationship among previous antimicrobial use, antimicrobial resistance, and treatment outcomes for Helicobacter pylori infections.

Use of macrolide antibiotics is associated with increased risk that subsequent infection with Helicobacter pylori will be clarithromycin resistant and that clarithromycin treatment will fail.
Reproductive dysfunction and decreased GnRH neurogenesis in a mouse model of CHARGE syndrome

CHARGE is a multiple congenital anomaly disorder and a common cause of pubertal defects, olfactory dysfunction, growth delays, deaf-blindness, balance disorders and congenital heart malformations. Mutations in CHD7, the gene encoding chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein 7, are present in 60–80% of individuals with the CHARGE syndrome. Mutations in CHD7 have also been reported in the Kallmann syndrome (olfactory dysfunction, delayed puberty and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism). CHD7 is a positive regulator of neural stem cell proliferation and olfactory sensory neuron formation in the olfactory epithelium, suggesting that the loss of CHD7 might also disrupt development of other neural populations. Here we report that female Chd7Gt/+ mice have delays in vaginal opening and estrus onset, and erratic estrus cycles. Chd7Gt/+ mice also have decreased circulating levels of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone but apparently normal responsiveness to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist and antagonist treatment. GnRH neurons in the adult Chd7Gt/+ hypothalamus and embryonic nasal region are diminished, and there is decreased cellular proliferation in the embryonic olfactory placode. Expression levels of GnRH1 and Otx2 in the hypothalamus and GnRHR in the pituitary are significantly reduced in adult Chd7Gt/+ mice. Additionally, Chd7 mutant embryos have CHD7 dosage-dependent reductions in expression levels of Fgfr1, Bmp4 and Otx2 in the olfactory placode. Together, these data suggest that CHD7 has critical roles in the development and maintenance of GnRH neurons for regulating puberty and reproduction.
Using RF Recording Techniques to Resolve Wireless Channel Interference Problems

The user environment for wireless devices is complex and includes many sources of interference, from the multitude of devices in the wireless landscape or other non-communications-based RF sources. As the RF power is spread over wider bandwidths to improve range resolution, increase data rates, and decrease probability of detections, RF devices encounter a wider bandwidth of interference. As designers look to create robust solutions that can perform in such environments it becomes more important to create those conditions in the lab, or model those environments.
Urgency counts: The why behind pediatric psychiatric emergency visits

Abstract Despite the growing role primary care plays in children’s mental health, there remain difficulties with identification of psychiatric and psychosocial problems and barriers to referral. The child with mental health problems in the emergency department (ED) is particularly prone to be under-identified and the reasons the family views the situation as a crisis are also likely to be misunderstood. Understanding the complex factors that lead to a pediatric mental health crisis presenting in the ED can be enhanced by an appreciation of the broader concept of urgency. This article will describe the spectrum of psychiatric emergencies in youth, present an urgency classification system and triage tool, and give a practical illustration of using urgency data to plan for new services. This broader concept of urgency that includes contextual factors will provide additional guidance to pediatricians faced with mental health problems in the ED.
Area relations between labeling index curves from multicompartment cell kinetics models.

The study of the multicompartment models in cell kinetics can be simplified by the use of a conservation law relating the integrals, with respect to time, of labeling index in various compartments. We present a proof of the conservation law directed to the nonmathematician, as well as four applications from biology. The first demonstrates a contradiction, which biologists have yet to resolve, between a certain biological model and experimental results. The second and third are simpler proofs of results already proven by other techniques in the literature. The fourth is a result which appears to be new.
Ligand Design for Securing Ferromagnetic Exchange Coupling in Multimetallic Complexes

An approach is suggested for using ligands to control exchange coupling in multinuclear ions. The idea arose from structural, EPR, and magnetic studies of [PPh4]3 (Scheme 1). Ferromagnetic coupling has been found between the CoII and each CoIII in 3 with J = −22 ± 5 cm−1 (JS1 · S2). It is suggested that dominant antiferromagnetic superexchange is absent because of the strong σ-donor capacity of the tetradentate ligand [k4-PAC*]4− (Fig. 1). The ligand interacts at CoIII primarily with a single d orbital; it is thus best able to participate in superexchange. The interaction makes the unique d orbital strongly σ-antibonding and empty for each d6, S = 1, CoIII ion in 3, that is, unavailable for antiferromagnetic coupling, but available for ferromagnetic pathways by a Goodenough-Kanamori mechanism. By corollary, when any [k4-PAC*]4−-type ligand with any magnetic ion Ma in the tetradentate site binds any magnetic ion Mb in the bidentate site, ferromagnetic coupling should be favored provided Ma is not a d9 ion.
Evolving trends in maternal fetal medicine referrals in a rural state using telemedicine.

Objective To determine maternal fetal medicine (MFM) referral trends in a Medicaid population over time.
The viability of sperm in lateral oviducts and spermathecae of instrumentally inseminated and naturally mated honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) queens

SummaryInstrumentally inseminated queens (IIQ) were compared with naturally mated ones (NMQ) to detect the effect of the instrumental insemination procedure on sperm viability in the reproductive organs. The viability of sperm in the reproductive organs of IIQ and NMQ was determined at 4 h and 24 h after they were inseminated or they mated. No significant difference was found between IIQ (88.6%) and NMQ (87.6%) in viability of sperm in the lateral oviducts at 4 h. There was also no difference between IIQ (98.3%) and NMQ (97.8%) in viability of sperm in spermathecae at 4 h. The mean viability of sperm in spermathecae of IIQ (97.5%) did not differ from the mean viability of sperm in spermathecae of NMQ (96.8%) after 24 h. These results showed that the insemination procedure had no negative effect on viability of sperm in reproductive organs of queens. The difference in sperm viability between lateral oviducts (88.1%) and spermathecae (98.1%) of queens at 4 h was found to be statistically significant (P < 0....
A Method for Evaluating the Soil's Effective Cation Exchange Capacity and Exchangeable Base Content Using Silver-Thiourea

Measurement of the soil's in situ or effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) is of major concern to professionals dealing with land disposal of cation-containing wastes. The ECEC is a measurement of the amount of excess negative charge a unit weight of soil will display under the environmental conditions experienced in the field. The measurement is accomplished by extracting all of the cations that would be released under field conditions using an unbuffered 0.01 M silver-thiourea solution and analyzing this extract for total calcium, magnesium, hydrogen, aluminum, potassium, and sodium. The ECEC then is calculated as the sum of these six cations in units of milliequivalents per 100 g of oven-dried soil.
Craterellus fallax , a Black Trumpet mushroom from eastern North America with a broad host range

Phylogenetic analysis of ITS sequences of members of the Craterellus cornucopioides complex (Black Trumpet mushrooms) supports the taxonomic separation of Craterellus fallax apart from C. cornucopioides, with which it has been synonymized in the past. Examination of Pinus virginiana ectomycorrhizal (ECM) root tips and sequence comparison with other insufficiently identified environmental sequences from roots of Tsuga, Quercus, and possibly Castanea supports a broad host range in North America for the ECM symbiont C. fallax. This is the first molecular confirmation of an ECM symbiont with P. virginiana, which associates with a wide diversity of ECM fungi, and the first report of a Cantharellaceae symbiont with this tree, an eastern North American two-needled pine. Three unique species in the C. cornucopioides complex are recovered based on phylogenetic analysis: C. fallax, C. cornucopioides, and an unidentified Craterellus species similar to C. fallax but smaller in stature with smaller spores.