cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
2109. Reducing Catheter-associated Urinary Infections (CAUTI) in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU): Changing the Culture of Culturing

Background CAUTIs are one of the most common preventable adverse events in hospitalized patients. Prior to the start of this intervention, CAUTI rates in our ICU’s throughout our multicenter acute care system were significantly above the national average. Our hypothesis was that we could decrease CAUTI’s by daily review of the urine culture orders for patients with a Foley catheter.
Motif-Level Robustness Analysis of Power Grids

Motifs are often called the building blocks of networks and can be used for better understanding of the local structure of networks. Certain motifs may occur more frequently in one network than in another network with the same global structural properties such as the same nodal degree distribution. On that note, analysis of motifs is found to be an invaluable tool to show that networks with similar global topological properties may be completely different in terms of local topological properties. Most studies on the robustness of power system networks against targeted attacks tend to only focus on global topological measures of power grids. However, the impact of local structures can also unveil hidden mechanisms behind the vulnerability of power grids and their dynamic response to failures. In this paper, we present a preliminary study to investigate the local structure of European power grids and find the correlation between their robustness against targeted attacks and the presence or absence of certain motifs.
Search for XYY syndrome in psychiatrically disturbed children and adolescent juvenile delinquents. A preliminary report.

Two groups of young males were analyzed: 18 patients from the Division of Child Psychiatry, University of Minnesota, and 28 juvenile delinquents from Lino Lakes Juvenile Detention Center. All patients were screened regarding stature and behavior characteristics. None of the 46 cases analyzed showed any abnormality, either of autosomal or of sex chromosomes.
Primary Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of the Descending Colon

Primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the gastrointestinal tract is rare with an incidence of 10-15% of all non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases and 1-4% of all gastrointestinal tumors. The most common sites of involvement include the stomach, small intestines, colon and rectum. Primary colorectal lymphoma is extremely rare representing only 0.2-0.6% of all colorectal malignancies. The presentation is usually non-specific leading to delay in diagnosis. Imaging is used to locate the tumor and its extension. Colonoscopy usually shows a fungating mass, infiltrative or ulcerative lesion. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common histological subtype. Management of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma usually involves chemotherapy, radiation, surgery or a combination approach.
A potential mechanism for inflation from swampland conjectures

Abstract Inflation is the currently accepted paradigm for the beginnings of the Universe. To explain the observed almost scale invariant spectrum of density perturbations with only a slight spectral tilt, inflation must have been “slow roll”, that is with a potential with sufficiently small slope. While the origin of inflationary structure is intrinsically quantum mechanical, gravity gets treated semiclassically within inflationary models. Recent work, in terms of the so called de-Sitter swampland conjecture, has called into question whether slow roll inflation is consistent with a complete theory of quantum gravity in the presence of a positive vacuum energy density, which is a key ingredient in the inflationary paradigm. In this work, we show that, in fact, if we understand this conjecture correctly and with another swampland conjecture, the so-called distance conjecture, involved we get a potential mechanism for slow roll inflation and we argue that here fine-tuning is not a technical problem.
Empirical S=O stretch vibrational frequency map.

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) water mixtures have been widely studied due to their unique concentration-dependent bulk properties. Here, we present an empirical spectroscopic map for the sulfinyl (S=O) stretching mode. The model can be used to interpret infrared (IR) absorption and ultrafast two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) spectra and quantify hydrogen bond populations and lifetimes by directly connecting spectroscopic measurements with structures and dynamics from molecular dynamics simulations. The electrostatic map is directly parameterized against experimental absorption spectra in the S=O stretching region (980–1100 cm−1) of dilute DMSO in water. A comparison of center peak frequencies shows that the map performs well across the entire DMSO concentration range, accurately reproducing the ∼10 cm−1 red-shift per hydrogen bond observed in the experiments. We further benchmark the map by comparing experimental and simulated 2D IR spectra generated by direct numerical integration of the Schrodinger equation. We expect that this empirical frequency map will provide a quantitative platform for investigating intermolecular interactions, microscopic heterogeneity, and ultrafast dynamics in complex liquid mixtures containing DMSO.
Self-managed Computer Systems: Foundations and Examples.

The traditional approach to managing complex computer systems is to use a cadre of skilled IT professionals who use monitoring tools in order to detect when problems arise. They are then able to use their skills and experience to determine what actions should be taken to solve the problems. This approach is no longer viable for highly complex, networked computer information systems that have numerous configuration knobs, and operate in environments that vary with time at a very high rate. In this case, one cannot expect that design-time configurations will make the system operate optimally at run-time. For that reason, complex systems need to manage themselves using controllers that make the systems self-configuring, self-optimizing, self-healing, and self-protecting. This paper provides a formalism to describe self-managed systems and discusses concrete examples that illustrate how these properties are enforced by controllers in a variety of domains including cloud computing, fog/cloud computing, Internet datacenters, distributed software systems, and secure database systems.
Meso-, micro-, and nano-structures induced in bismuth telluride thermoelectric materials by laser additive manufacturing

Thermoelectric devices are solid-state energy conversion devices that are used in thermal management and waste heat recovery applications. Current thermoelectric devices are limited in their geometries, and the manufacturing process is labor-intensive. The traditional manufacturing methods limit the widespread use of thermoelectric modules in potential application areas. To address this issue and expand the use of thermoelectric devices, we investigated laser powder bed fusion, an additive manufacturing technique that is also known as selective laser melting. We performed selective laser melting on bismuth telluride, a common thermoelectric material. This work explored Bi2Se0.3 Te2.7, an n-type thermoelectric material. After laser processing, the meso-, micro-, and nanostructure of selectively laser melted samples were analyzed to identify the relationship between the laser parameters and processed materials. The meso- and micro-structure was investigated with optical and scanning electron microscopy to identify the grain structure and morphology. The nanostructure was analyzed using transmission electron microscopy to explore the location and density of dislocations and point defects. The results reveal the impact of selective laser melting process parameters on n-type bismuth telluride and guide future work in determining the process-structure relationship for laser additive manufacturing of thermoelectric devices.
Validation of a SCID mouse model for transfusion by concurrent comparison of circulation kinetics of human platelets, stored under various temperature conditions, between human volunteers and mice.

Background Initial evaluation of new platelet (PLT) products for transfusion includes a clinical study to determine in vivo recovery and survival of autologous radiolabeled PLTs in healthy volunteers. These studies are expensive and do not always produce the desired results. A validated animal model of human PLTs in vivo survival and recovery used pre-clinically could reduce the risk of failing to advance product development. Study design and methods An immunodeficient (SCID) mouse model to evaluate recovery of human PLTs was compared to a radiolabeling study in human volunteers. Autologous apheresis PLTs stored for 7 days at room temperature (RT), thermo-cycled (TC), and cold temperature (CT) were radiolabeled and infused into healthy humans (n = 16). The same PLTs, non-radiolabeled, were also infused into mice (n = 160) on the same day. Blood samples from humans and mice were collected to generate clearance curves of PLTs in circulation. Flow cytometry was used to detect human PLTs in mouse blood. Results Human and mouse PLTs were cleared with one phase exponential clearance. Relative differences for initial recovery and AUC, expressed as ratio of test and control PLTs, were similar in humans and mice. The initial recovery ratio of TC/RT was 0.73 ± 0.07 in humans and 0.67 ± 0.14 in mice. The ratio for CT/TC was 0.53 ± 0.06 in humans and 0.75 ± 0.18 in mice. Conclusion The SCID mouse model can provide information on relative differences of initial in vivo recovery and AUC between control and alternatively stored/processed human PLTs that is predictive of performance in healthy human volunteers.
Assessing the Intraday Variation of the Spillover Effect of Tweets-Derived Ambient Population on Crime:

The spatial pattern of geotagged tweets reflects the dynamic distribution of the ambient population during day and night as a result of people’s routine activities. A few studies have assessed the ...
Large-Scale Classification of Urban Structural Units From Remote Sensing Imagery

Remote sensing in combination with deep learning has become instrumental for efficiently and accurately classifying land-use and land-cover across large geographic areas. These technologies have also been successful in characterizing urban environments in terms of their structural units, structure types, or morphological regions. In these approaches, an urban area is partitioned into regions that exhibit homogeneous physical characteristics. However, existing approaches are typically limited to a single city, use inconsistent typologies, and lack scalability and generalization capacity. In this article, we propose an urban structural units categorization scheme and demonstrate its utility by applying it to 13 cities. Inspired by the lack of scalability and generalization capacity in urban structural units mapping, we extend the reach of deep learning and conduct a set of classification experiments in all 13 cities. These experiments offer insights into the strengths and limitations of deep neural networks for classifying urban structural units over diverse geographic regions and on heterogeneous collections of satellite imagery. The efficacy of the proposed deep learning approach is compared to a baseline method of multiscale image features and support vector machines. Our validation on five cities shows that better performance is achieved with deep neural networks. Additionally, we evaluate the impact of input size, model depth, and spatial pyramid pooling to assess the generalization capacity of deep neural networks.
Stabilisation of the preterm infant in the delivery room using nasal high flow: a 5‐year retrospective analysis

AIM This study reviews clinical outcomes after initiating a routine policy of preterm respiratory stabilisation using nasal high flow (HF) in the delivery room (DR). METHOD This was a retrospective observational cohort study in a single-centre neonatal intensive care unit and included all neonates born before 32 weeks of gestation between 1 April 2015 and 31 March 2020. Stabilisation measures and outcomes were recorded including oxygen requirements, admission temperature, surfactant administration, invasive ventilation within 72 h of birth, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and death. RESULTS There were 491 eligible babies during the 5-year epoch. 292 were stabilised using HF in the DR. The median admission temperature in babies transferred on HF was 36.8°C, and the median FiO2 at admission was 25%. 45% of these infants received surfactant. At 72 postnatal hours, 78% were either sustained on HF or were either self-ventilating in air (SVIA) or receiving low-flow nasal cannula (LFNC) respiratory support. 27% were intubated within 7 days. At 36 weeks postmenstrual age, 36% of survivors had BPD. CONCLUSION We have demonstrated that preterm babies <32 weeks can be effectively stabilised on HF in the DR.
Safety, Tolerability, and Effect of Nusinersen in Non-ambulatory Adults With Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Objective: Investigation of the safety, tolerability, and treatment effect of nusinersen treatment in non-ambulatory adults with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Methods: Non-ambulatory individuals, aged 18 years or older with genetically confirmed 5q SMA were enrolled. In participants with spinal fusion, fluoroscopy guided cervical C1-C2 lateral approach was used. Outcomes at 2, 6, 10, and 14 months post-treatment were compared with baseline assessment. Forced vital capacity (FVC) was the primary outcome, and RULM, HFMSE, the modified SMA-FRS, and ulnar nerve electrophysiology [compound muscle action potential (CMAP), single motor unit size, and motor unit number] were secondary. Adverse and serious adverse events and clinically significant vital sign or lab abnormalities were recorded. Results: Results from 12 women and 7 men (mean age: 39.7 ± 13.9, range: 21-64 years) were analyzed. No clinically significant changes of vital signs or laboratory parameters were observed. Five participants were hospitalized for pneumonia. Other adverse events included headache, back pain, cervical injection site pain, and upper respiratory and urinary tract infections. High baseline protein/creatinine ratio without significant change on treatment noted in 4 participants. FVC was feasible in all participants. HFMSE and RULM were not feasible in the majority of participants. FVC and functional outcomes were stable without improvement. CMAP and single motor unit potential sizes showed enlargement while motor unit numbers were stable. Conclusions: Nusinersen, including C1/C2 delivery, was safe overall and well-tolerated. Several outcome measures were limited by floor effect. Overall, treatment resulted in stability of motor outcomes, but motor unit and CMAP size were increased.
Smart Inverers and Volt Var Optimization

California Rule 21 currently regulates the integration of distributed generation (DG) to the power grid owned by utility companies. It prevents new installations from disturbing the normal processes of the grid, therefore voltage regulation from the load is required within the scope of Rule 21. Increasing distributed generation in recent years has created a bidirectional power flow at the load where customers are no longer passive loads but also generating units, and DG penetration can no longer be ignored. It is then expected that voltage support should be performed by the customers to reduce disturbances in the grid. This paper summarizes the simulation of a grid-tied, balanced 3-phase photo-voltaic (PV) generation integrated onto a test bus with a smart inverter. It also covers the derivation of an algorithm for Volt Var Control (VVC).
On the Thermal Stability Length Dependence of High TC Superconductors

The margin of stability for high TC superconductors may be characterized by the lowest thermal pulse that results in a quench. A numerical code, developed to investigate this stability margin, accounts for the temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity, electrical resistivity and heat capacity of the materials involved. The conductor is cooled solely by thermal conduction along its length, and its stability is studied as function of the length. It is found that the stability margin for a pure BSCCO 2212 conductor is independent of the length. However, the stability margin for a composite conductor obtained by adding 10% (by volume) of silver to the BSCCO is found to be strongly length dependent. A transition length is identified, for which shorter lengths exhibit a dramatically higher stability margin. This feature results when the length dependent thermal diffusion time is shorter than the time required to determine the conductor’s stability. This study confirms and explains the growing awareness that if normal zones appear in high TC coils, they will remain fairly localized.
Exploring Mexican American adolescent romantic relationship profiles and adjustment

Although Mexican Americans are the largest ethnic minority group in the nation, knowledge is limited regarding this population's adolescent romantic relationships. This study explored whether 12th grade Mexican Americans' (N = 218; 54% female) romantic relationship characteristics, cultural values, and gender created unique latent classes and if so, whether they were linked to adjustment. Latent class analyses suggested three profiles including, relatively speaking, higher, satisfactory, and lower quality romantic relationships. Regression analyses indicated these profiles had distinct associations with adjustment. Specifically, adolescents with higher and satisfactory quality romantic relationships reported greater future family expectations, higher self-esteem, and fewer externalizing symptoms than those with lower quality romantic relationships. Similarly, adolescents with higher quality romantic relationships reported greater academic self-efficacy and fewer sexual partners than those with lower quality romantic relationships. Overall, results suggested higher quality romantic relationships were most optimal for adjustment. Future research directions and implications are discussed.
Chapter 1. Sigma Receptors and their Ligands: The Sigma Enigma

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the debate that continues over whether σ sites are true receptors or a membrane bound enzyme. Although σ receptors have been implicated in the regulation of neurotransmitter release, known neurotransmitters do not bind at σ sites. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and peptide YY also bind at σ sites. Although N-allylnormetazocine (NANM) binds at σ and κ Sap[rea opiate receptors, its effects would not be attributed to the actions at these sites. Furthermore, whereas (-)NANM binds with higher affinity than its (+) enantiomer at other opiate receptors, its enantioselectivity is revised at a receptors. Until recently, tools to properly investigate σ receptors simply have been unavailable. Indeed, many of the agents that helped generate interest in σ receptors bind only with micromolar affinities. Recently, agents with significantly higher affinities have been identified leading to the introduction of term “superpotent σ ligands”— that is, agents that bind at σ sites with subnanomolar affinities. A large number of structurally diverse compounds have been examined as potential ligands. Like haloperidol, many potent neuroleptic agents, such as perphenazine bind at σ sites. Atypical anti-psychotic agents, such as rimtazole, remoxipride BMY 14,802, and gevotroline also bind at σ sites. Agents with significantly higher affinities have been identified, leading to the introduction of the term “superpotent σ ligands”— that is, agents that bind at σ sites with subnanomolar affinities. Sigma ligands may interfere with the uptake of norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and the release of acetylcholine. Although σ ligands may modulate N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, NMDA receptor antagonists, but not σ ligands disrupted learning in mice.
Studies of human serological reactivity with type C virus and viral proteins.

The persistent controversy surrounding possible association of type C viruses with human malignancies is the result of a number of not always compatible observations in many laboratories. Thus, while a number of reports of virus-like particles (occasionally with associated infectivity), reverse transcriptase, virus-like RNA, viral proteins, and proviral DNA sequences in human tissues exist [1], the results must be weighed in relation to negative findings by other investigators seeking similar evidence [2].
ROCKETSHIP: a flexible and modular software tool for the planning, processing and analysis of dynamic MRI studies

Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) is a promising technique to characterize pathology and evaluate treatment response. However, analysis of DCE-MRI data is complex and benefits from concurrent analysis of multiple kinetic models and parameters. Few software tools are currently available that specifically focuses on DCE-MRI analysis with multiple kinetic models. Here, we developed ROCKETSHIP, an open-source, flexible and modular software for DCE-MRI analysis. ROCKETSHIP incorporates analyses with multiple kinetic models, including data-driven nested model analysis. ROCKETSHIP was implemented using the MATLAB programming language. Robustness of the software to provide reliable fits using multiple kinetic models is demonstrated using simulated data. Simulations also demonstrate the utility of the data-driven nested model analysis. Applicability of ROCKETSHIP for both preclinical and clinical studies is shown using DCE-MRI studies of the human brain and a murine tumor model. A DCE-MRI software suite was implemented and tested using simulations. Its applicability to both preclinical and clinical datasets is shown. ROCKETSHIP was designed to be easily accessible for the beginner, but flexible enough for changes or additions to be made by the advanced user as well. The availability of a flexible analysis tool will aid future studies using DCE-MRI. A public release of ROCKETSHIP is available at https://github.com/petmri/ROCKETSHIP .
Functional morphology of anal sphincter complex unveiled by high definition anal manometery and three dimensional ultrasound imaging.

Background Anal sphincter complex consists of anatomically overlapping internal anal sphincter (IAS), external anal sphincter (EAS) and puborectalis muscle (PRM). We determined the functional morphology of anal sphincter muscles using high definition anal manometery (HDAM), three dimensional (3D)-ultrasound (US) and Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Methods We studied 15 nulliparous women. High definition anal manometery probe equipped with 256 pressure transducers was used to measure the anal canal pressures at rest and squeeze. Lengths of IAS, PRM, and EAS were determined from the 3D-US images and superimposed on the HDAM plots. Movements of anorectal angle with squeeze were determined from the dynamic MR images. Key Results High definition anal manometery plots reveal that anal canal pressures are highly asymmetric in the axial and circumferential direction. Anal canal length determined by the 3D-US images is slightly smaller than that measured by HDAM. The EAS (1.9 ± 0.5 cm long) and PRM (1.7 ± 0.4 cm long) surround distal and proximal parts of the anal canal, respectively. With voluntary contraction, anal canal pressures increase in the proximal (PRM) and distal (EAS zone) parts of anal canal. Posterior peak pressure in the anal canal moves cranially in relation to the anterior peak pressure, with squeeze. Similar to the movement of peak posterior pressure, MR images show cranial movement of anorectal angle with squeeze. Conclusions & Inferences Our study proves that the PRM is responsible for the closure of the cranial part of anal canal. HDAM, in addition to measuring constrictor function can also record the elevator function of levator ani/pelvic floor muscles.
The interrelationship between price and output decisions and investment decisions: Microfoundations and aggregate implications

Abstract This paper develops a model of firm behavior in which both price and output decisions and investment decisions are made. The model permits an analysis of the dynamics of inventory and capital accumulation on price and output behavior. There are two main results: (1) Short-run price and output levels will differ from long-run levels as desired stocks of inventory and capital diverge from actual levels. (2) The size of the elasticities of price and output to changes in demand and cost variables depends on the speed with which gaps between desired and actual stocks are closed through investment.
Dielectrophoretic isolation and detection of cancer-related circulating cell-free DNA biomarkers from blood and plasma.

Conventional methods for the isolation of cancer-related circulating cell-free (ccf) DNA from patient blood (plasma) are time consuming and laborious. A DEP approach utilizing a microarray device now allows rapid isolation of ccf-DNA directly from a small volume of unprocessed blood. In this study, the DEP device is used to compare the ccf-DNA isolated directly from whole blood and plasma from 11 chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients and one normal individual. Ccf-DNA from both blood and plasma samples was separated into DEP high-field regions, after which cells (blood), proteins, and other biomolecules were removed by a fluidic wash. The concentrated ccf-DNA was detected on-chip by fluorescence, and then eluted for PCR and DNA sequencing. The complete process from blood to PCR required less than 10 min; an additional 15 min was required to obtain plasma from whole blood. Ccf-DNA from the equivalent of 5 µL of CLL blood and 5 µL of plasma was amplified by PCR using Ig heavy-chain variable (IGHV) specific primers to identify the unique IGHV gene expressed by the leukemic B-cell clone. The PCR and DNA sequencing results obtained by DEP from all 11 CLL blood samples and from 8 of the 11 CLL plasma samples were exactly comparable to the DNA sequencing results obtained from genomic DNA isolated from CLL patient leukemic B cells (gold standard).
Approximation technique for determining gain and radiation pattern of the horn antenna

It is shown that an approximation can be used to avoid the complex mathematics and computation methods for calculating the gain and radiation pattern of the electromagnetic horn antenna. Because of the curvature of the antenna wave front, calculations using conventional techniques typically involve solving the Fresnel integrals and using computer-aided numerical integration. With the proposed model, linear approximations give a reasonable estimate of the gain and radiation pattern using simple trigonometric functions, allowing a hand calculator to replace the computer. The case of the E-plane horn antenna was used to evaluate this technique, applying selected criteria. Results showed that the gain approximation holds for an antenna flare angle of less than 10 degrees for typical antenna dimensions, and the E-field radiation pattern approximation holds until the antenna's phase error approaches 60 degrees , both within typical design parameters. >
Retrospective Analysis of Dental Implants Placed and Restored by Advanced Prosthodontic Residents

Purpose: The purposes of this retrospective clinical review were to: (1) describe the demographics of implant patients, types of implant treatment and implant-supported prostheses in an Advanced Education in Prosthodontic Program, (2) evaluate the survival rate of dental implants placed by prosthodontic residents from 2006 to 2008, and (3) analyze the relationship between resident year of training and implant survival rate. Material and Methods: All patients who received dental implants placed by prosthodontic residents from January 2006 to October of 2008 in the Advanced Prosthodontic Program at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry were selected for this study. Age, gender, implant diameter, length, implant locations, surgical and restorative detail, and year of prosthodontic residency training were collected and analyzed. Life-table and Kaplan–Meier survival analyses were performed based on implants overall, locations, year of training, and use of a computer-generated surgical guide. A Logrank statistic was performed between implant survival and year of prosthodontic residency training, location, and use of computer-generated surgical guide (α= 0.05). Results: Three hundred and six implants were placed, and of these, seven failed. Life-table and Kaplan–Meier analyses computed a cumulative survival rate (CSR) of 97% for overall implants and implants placed with a computer-generated surgical guide. No statistical difference was found in implant survival rates as a function of year of training (P= 0.85). Conclusion: Dental implants placed by prosthodontic residents had a CSR comparable to previously published studies by other specialties. The year of prosthodontic residency training and implant failure rate did not have any significant relationship.
USM3D Unstructured Grid Solutions for CAWAPI at NASA LaRC

In support the Cranked Arrow Wing Aerodynamic Project International (CAWAPI) to improve the Technology Readiness Level of flow solvers by comparing results with measured F-16XL-1 flight data, NASA Langley employed the TetrUSS unstructured grid solver, USM3D, to obtain solutions for all seven flight conditions of interest. A newly available solver version that incorporates a number of turbulence models, including the two-equation linear and non-linear k-epsilon, was used in this study. As a first test, a choice was made to utilize only a single grid resolution with the solver for the simulation of the different flight conditions. Comparisons are presented with three turbulence models in USM3D, flight data for surface pressure, boundary-layer profiles, and skin-friction results, as well as limited predictions from other solvers. A result of these comparisons is that the USM3D solver can be used in an engineering environment to predict flow physics on a complex configuration at flight Reynolds numbers with a two-equation linear k-epsilon turbulence model.
Differential effects of ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate on ERM phosphorylation: probing sphingolipid signaling at the outer plasma membrane.

ERM proteins are regulated by phosphorylation of the most C-terminal threonine residue, switching them from an activated to an inactivated form. However, little is known about the control of this regulation. Previous work in our group demonstrated that secretion of acid sphingomyelinase acts upstream of ERM dephosphorylation, suggesting the involvement of sphingomyelin (SM) hydrolysis in ERM regulation. To define the role of specific lipids, we employed recombinant bacterial sphingomyelinase (bSMase) as a direct probe of SM metabolism at the plasma membrane. bSMase induced a rapid dose- and time-dependent decrease in ERM dephosphorylation. ERM dephosphorylation was driven by ceramide generation and not by sphingomyelin depletion, as shown using recombinant sphingomyelinase D. The generation of ceramide at the plasma membrane was sufficient for ERM regulation, and no intracellular SM hydrolysis was required, as was visualized using Venus-tagged lysenin probe, which specifically binds SM. Interestingly, hydrolysis of plasma membrane bSMase-induced ceramide using bacterial ceramidase caused ERM hyperphosphorylation and formation of cell surface protrusions. The effects of plasma membrane ceramide hydrolysis were due to sphingosine 1-phosphate formation, as ERM phosphorylation was blocked by an inhibitor of sphingosine kinase and induced by sphingosine 1-phosphate. Taken together, these results demonstrate a new regulatory mechanism of ERM phosphorylation by sphingolipids with opposing actions of ceramide and sphingosine 1-phosphate. The approach also defines a tool kit to probe sphingolipid signaling at the plasma membrane.
Raman spectra of carbon monoxide adsorbed on oriented crystalline nickel surfaces

Raman spectral results for CO adsorbed at high pressures on Ni(100), Ni(110) and Ni(111) are presented. The bands near 2020 cm−1 due to chemisorbed CO are discussed in relation to site of adsorption and surface cleanliness. Raman spectra of temperature and pressure-dependent CO adsorption on Ni(100) are also presented.
APHD: End-to-End Delay Assurance in 802.11e Based MANETs

In this paper we present an adaptive per hop differentiation (APHD) scheme towards achieving end-to-end delay assurance in multihop wireless networks. Our APHD scheme extends the capability of IEEE 802.11e EDCA technique into multihop environments by taking end-to-end delay requirement into consideration. At an intermediate node, based on data packet's end-to-end requirement, its accumulative delay so far, and the current node's channel status, APHD smartly adjusts a data packet's priority level in order to satisfy its end-to-end delay requirement. Simulation results show that APHD scheme can provide excellent end-to-end delay assurance while achieving much higher network utilization, compared to a pure EDCA scheme.
Vitamin D intervention by pharmacists in geriatric outpatients.

Abstract: Objectives: To develop a pharmacist-provided educational intervention that instructs participants to consume 1,200 IU vitamin D daily and to evaluate its effect on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D) concentrations and self-reported daily vitamin D intake in geriatric outpatients with insufficient vitamin D. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: University-affiliated geriatric clinic, December 2005 to May 2006. Patients: 80 participants aged 65 to 89 years. Intervention: Participants with insufficient vitamin D (12–31 ng/mL) were randomized to receive either the educational intervention (n = 23) or no intervention (n = 22). Main outcome measures: Difference in change from baseline to 12 weeks in vitamin D concentrations and self-reported daily vitamin D intake between groups. Results: At 12 weeks, vitamin D concentrations in the educational intervention group (n = 22) increased from a mean (± SD) of 23.5 ± 5.0 to 30.4 ± 6.3 ng/mL. Vitamin D concentrations in the nonintervention group (n = 21) increased from 22.8 ± 5.4 to 26.9 ± 6.2 ng/mL. The difference between the groups at 12 weeks did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.07). However, 12 participants (55%) in the educational intervention group achieved sufficient vitamin D concentrations compared with only 5 participants (24%) in the nonintervention group (P = 0.04). Self-reported daily vitamin D intake increased by a mean of 647 IU/day in the educational intervention group and 67 IU/day in the nonintervention group. The difference in self-reported intake between groups at 12 weeks, controlling for baseline, was significant (P Conclusion: A pharmacist-developed and -administered vitamin D educational intervention increased the proportion of participants achieving sufficient vitamin D concentrations, increased the self-reported daily vitamin D intake, and lowered serum parathyroid hormone concentrations. However, it did not significantly increase the overall mean serum vitamin D concentration, compared with the control group. A daily recommendation of more than 1,200 IU vitamin D daily is likely necessary to ensure that all geriatric outpatients with insufficient vitamin D concentrations achieve the target of at least 32 ng/mL.
Statistical Field Significance and its Determination by Monte Carlo Techniques

Abstract The effects of number and interdependence in evaluating the collective significance of finite sets of statistics are frequently non-trivial, especially for spatial networks of time-averaged meteorological data. These effects can be taken into account in two steps: By first prescreening for significance assuming data independence and then, if necessary, by taking into consideration dependence through the use of estimated effective degrees of freedom and the binomial distribution or, failing that, Monte Carlo simulation. Seasonal averages of 700 mb height data are used to illustrate the problem and to demonstrate how the data set properties are taken into account. Papers by Hancock and Yarger (1979), Nastrom and Belmont (1980) and Williams (1980) are critically examined in light of these considerations and Monte Carlo strategies for clarification of ambiguities suggested.
Issues in user services management for the 90s

The nature of our work in the university community, the work force from which we'll draw both our part-time and professional User Services staff, and the computing center itself has undergone and will continue to undergo enormous change as we approach the year 2000. In this paper, User Services management issues for the 1990s will be discussed. Solutions are also suggested in some cases, not because of any pretence at being an authority on management, but only as a mechanism to start a dialogue about some of these issues.
Comparison of mixing calculations for reacting and non-reacting flows in a cylindrical duct

A production 3-D elliptic flow code has been used to calculate non-reacting and reacting flow fields in an experimental mixing section relevant to a rich burn/quick mix/lean burn (RQL) combustion system. A number of test cases have been run to assess the effects of the variation in the number of orifices, mass flow ratio, and rich-zone equivalence ratio on the flow field and mixing rates. The calculated normalized temperature profiles for the non-reacting flow field agree qualitatively well with the normalized conserved variable isopleths for the reacting flow field indicating that non-reacting mixing experiments are appropriate for screening and ranking potential rapid mixing concepts. For a given set of jet momentum-flux ratio, mass flow ratio, and density ratio (J, MR, and DR), the reacting flow calculations show a reduced level of mixing compared to the non-reacting cases. In addition, the rich-zone equivalence ratio has noticeable effect on the mixing flow characteristics for reacting flows.
School Lunch Contribution to Nutritional Intake of Low Income West Virginia Sixth Graders

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To describe compliance of consumed school lunches to nutrient goals and the strengths and weaknesses of lunch contributions to total daily intakes of 6th graders from low income areas of West Virginia. The purpose of this study was to assess compliance of the consumed school lunch (SL) to nutrient goals and to identify SL contributions to the daily nutritional intake of 6th graders in low income areas of West Virginia. Seventy-five rural public school students participated. To characterize the nutrient profile of the group, two 24-hr diet recalls were administered by trained interviewers using a standard protocol with food models and analyzed using Nutritionist IV. The ability to adequately recall was validated by comparison with at least one observed lunch. COMPLIANCE WITH LUNCH GOALS: For protein, both mean (28 g) and mid range (25m–75m percentile) values were within 1/3 the RDA. Although mean Vit A(378RE)and Vit C(24rng)wereabovel/3theRDA,50th percentile values were under mat goal indicating many children did not consume enough. Mean dietary fiber (3 g) was below 1/3 of the goal for children (5.6g). Although mean cholesterol (69 mg) was below 1/3 the maximum recommended, other lipid components exceeded standards. Percent calories from fat (%fat) was 38% with mid range 17–67%. Percent calories from saturated fat (%SFA) was 12% with midrange 10–21%. Mean sodium (Na –1264, midrange 924–1463 mg) exceeded 1/3 recommended amount. POSITIVE LUNCH CONTRIBUTIONS: The consumed SL contributed 37% of daily Vit A, 26% of daily Vit C and 35% of daily cholesterol. Daily goals for these nutrients were met. CONTRIBUTIONS IN NEED OF IMPROVEMENT: Although lunches contributed about 1/3 of dairy calories (32%), Ca(38%), Fe (30%) and fiber (34%), total daily intakes were under nutrient goals. Daily %fat was 34% and %SFA 12% with SL contributing 36% to daily fat and 33% to daily SFA. Mean Na was 3376 mg with lunch contributing 38% of daily Na. Even if daily goals were not met, consumed SL provided at least 30% (except Vit C) for the day. This indicates the importance of providing meals and encouraging consumption of lunches that both meet Dietary Guidelines and contribute to the RDAs. This is particularly important in rural areas where children may be receiving a substantial portion of daily nutrients at school.
Two-phase flow dynamics in a micro hydrophilic channel: A theoretical and experimental study

In this paper, two-phase flow dynamics in a micro hydrophilic channel are experimentally and theoretically investigated. Flow patterns of annulus, wavy, and slug are observed in the range of operating condition. A set of empirical models based on the Lockhart–Martinelli parameter and a two-fluid model using several correlations of the relative permeability are adopted; and their predictions are compared with experimental data. It shows that for low liquid flow rates most model predictions show acceptable agreement with experimental data, while in the regime of high liquid flow rate only a few of them exhibit a good match. Correlation optimization is conducted for individual flow pattern. Through theoretical analysis of flows in a circular and 2-D channel, respectively, we obtain correlations close to the experimental observation. Real-time pressure measurement shows that different flow patterns yield different pressure evolutions.
Effect of an anaerobic swine lagoon on groundwater quality in sussex county, delaware

Abstract An unlined two-stage anaerobic swine lagoon was monitored for 4 years. Groundwater quality samples were analyzed for NH 3 N, NO 3 N, organic N, Cl, COD and total P. The lagoon did not have a serious impact on groundwater quality. Nitrate concentrations in all of the monitoring wells around the lagoon did not increase above 10 mg liter −1 after waste was added to the lagoon. Highest NO 3 N concentrations were found in monitoring wells in a cultivated field located 120 m from the lagoon. Chloride, NH 3 N and organic N concentrations gradually increased in a monitoring well located in the berm between the two stages.
Older men and younger women: A corpus-based study of quotative use in American English

This article investigates the effect of the external variables speaker age and sex on the use of the quotatives be like, go, be all, and say in present-day spoken American English. The study is based on a large computerized corpus of naturally-occurring conversation collected from a wide range of speakers across the United States. The results show that there are striking differences in the way that men and women under the age of forty use these quotatives. Young women are in the lead in the use of be like, but the use of this quotative decreases dramatically among women in their late 20s and in their 30s. In contrast, the use of be like increases among men in their late 20s. The patterns of use described here represent a departure from previous findings and suggest that the effect of speaker’s age and sex on quotative use is more complex than has been posited so far.
A Convenient Synthesis of Allyltrimethylsilanes from Allylic Phosphates

Abstract Treatment of an allylic phosphate with trimethylsilyllithium or trimethylsilylcopper [prepared from one equivalent of trimethylsilyllithium and copper(I) iodide] affords allyltrimethylsilanes in good - excellent yields with high stereoselectivity.
Myriaporones 1-4, cytotoxic metabolites from the Mediterranean bryozoan Myriapora truncata.

Four novel polyketide-derived metabolites, myriaporones 1, 2, 3, and 4, have been isolated from the Mediterranean bryozoan Myriapora truncata. Their structures and stereochemistry have been assigned from the analysis of spectroscopic data. The inseparable equilibrium mixture of myriaporones 3 and 4 showed 88% inhibition of L1210 murine leukemia cells at 0.2 μg/mL.
Response of engineered cartilage tissue to biochemical agents as studied by proton magnetic resonance microscopy.

Objective To test the hypothesis that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results correlate with the biochemical composition of cartilage matrix and can therefore be used to evaluate natural tissue development and the effects of biologic interventions. Methods Chondrocytes harvested from day-16 chick embryo sterna were inoculated into an MRI-compatible hollow-fiber bioreactor. The tissue that formed over a period of 2–4 weeks was studied biochemically, histologically, and with MRI. Besides natural development, the response of the tissue to administration of retinoic acid, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and daily dosing with ascorbic acid was studied. Results Tissue wet and dry weight, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, and collagen content all increased with development time, while tissue hydration decreased. The administration of retinoic acid resulted in a significant reduction in tissue wet weight, proteoglycan content, and cell number and an increase in hydration as compared with controls. Daily dosing with ascorbic acid increased tissue collagen content significantly compared with controls, while the administration of IL-1β resulted in increased proteoglycan content. The water proton longitudinal and transverse relaxation rates correlated well with GAG and collagen concentrations of the matrix as well as with tissue hydration. In contrast, the magnetization transfer value for the tissue correlated only with total collagen. Finally, the self-diffusion coefficient of water correlated with tissue hydration. Conclusion Parameters derived from MR images obtained noninvasively can be used to quantitatively assess the composition of cartilage tissue generated in a bioreactor. We conclude that MRI is a promising modality for the assessment of certain biochemical properties of cartilage in a wide variety of settings.
Density-first Ad-hoc routing protocol for MANET

In recent years, Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs) have received tremendous attention because of their self-configuration and self-maintenance capabilities. With open network architecture, frequent changes in topology, and shared wireless media, problems arise in the MANET routing protocol design. Such problems can include Broadcast Storm, stale route, faulty nodes, and latency. This paper proposes a new MANET routing protocol called Density-first Ad-hoc Routing Protocol (DARP). This new protocol considers node density, node mobility, and route length in order to select new routes with longer lifetimes and better throughput. Also, it uses a local self-recovery technique during the route maintenance phase in order to avoid the overhead and delay often caused by re-initiating route discovery. Our ns-2-based simulation shows that DARPpsilas performance is improved significantly in terms of throughput and routing overhead. Furthermore, DARP shows better scalability than other routing protocols in more demanding environments with high mobility and heavy traffic loads.
A Finite Length Bearing Correction Factor for Short Bearing Theory

A rapid method for calculating the general nonlinear response of finite-length plain journal and squeeze film damper bearings is presented. The method incorporates a finite-length correction factor which modifies the nonlinear forces obtained from short bearing theory. The steady-state rotational, precessive squeeze, and radial squeeze forces obtained with the correction factor compare extremely well with the forces obtained from an analytic solution of Reynolds equation using a variational approach up to L/D of 1.25 and hence covers the most commonly encountered L/D ratios. The method is no more time consuming than the short bearing analysis and is especially suited to nonlinear transient analysis of flexible rotors.