cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparison of mechanisms generating vertical transport in the Brazilian coastal upwelling regions

[1] Several mechanisms can drive vertical velocities in the coastal ocean, including wind-forcing and through gradients in the vorticity field generated by flow-topography interactions. A two-layer, steady, wind-driven, analytical model is applied to the major upwelling systems of Brazil: Cabo Frio (CF) and Cabo de Santa Marta (CSM) regions. Comparisons are made between the relative roles of wind and flow-topography interaction in inducing upwelling over these regions. Ekman pumping is the weakest mechanism over the shelf, but does influence the along-shelf temperature in the CF area. Away from coastline irregularities, wind-driven upwelling (Ekman transport) dominates over all mechanisms. However, in the vicinity of capes and coastal features, topographically driven upwelling plays a significant role, and its transports may vary from 43% to 94% of wind-driven upwelling. Upstream of capes, topographically driven vertical motions are downwelling favorable and act against the wind-driven coastal upwelling, while downstream of capes, they are upwelling favorable, where all mechanisms add up to create strong upwelling. Peaks in total upwelling in the CF region are about twice as large as those in the CSM area because the CF region has stronger winds and larger coastline perturbations than in the CSM region. Observed sea surface temperatures (SST) agree well with variability in the vertical transports where upwelling peaks are in phase with low temperature peaks along the coast. Results suggest that on larger scales, the SST variability along the coast is mainly controlled by wind-driven upwelling, while upwelling due to flow-topography interaction is responsible for the smaller scale SST variability.
Maximizing throughput for satellite communication in a hybrid FEC/ARQ scheme using LDPC codes

A hybrid forward error correction (FEC)/automatic repeat request (ARQ) has been considered as a mechanism for providing reliable communication between NASA orbiters and landers at the planet Mars. On such a link it is proposed to use a family of capacity achieving LDPC channel codes for FEC and go-back-N protocols for ARQ. In this paper, we analyze such a system and derive equations for its performance. We then use these equations to optimize the performance of the link in terms of information throughput subject to limitations on maximum channel baud rate and spacecraft power and select the best channel code and packet size accordingly at different link path lengths. In this optimization, first the frame error rate of the channel code is expressed in terms of a simple exponential function of the transmitted bit signal-to-noise ratio (Eb/N0), obtained through curve-fitting. Then the standard throughput equation for the go-back-N protocol in terms of the channel codes frame error rate is derived. Next, using the equations for the throughput and the frame error rate, the received Eb/N0 is calculated as a function of transmitted Eb/N0. By minimizing this function, the throughput of the system is maximized for a given available spacecraft power. In the course of this optimization, we quantify the advantage afforded by a system that supports a set of possible code rates and bandwidths as opposed to a system that uses a single rate at different link path lengths.
Abnormal cytology of the cervix in pregnancy. The pathologic findings and selection of treatment.

Abstract In the course of performing routine Papanicolaou smears in a voluntary hospital, 67 abnormal smears were obtained from 21,244 delivered patients. Fifty-one of the biopsy specimens were reported as carcinoma in situ, 7 as cervicitis, 5 as “atypia,” and 4 were diagnosed as invasive squamous carcinoma. Vaginal delivery was the method of choice in all but the invasive carcinomas. The final management of the patients depended upon the pathology as seen in the cone biopsy. In the patients with carcinoma in situ we elected to use the cone biopsy as the definitive treatment where certain prerequisites were met and the lesion was well encompassed by the biopsy, according to a system of grading as previously described. In the patients with carcinoma in situ where margins were involved in the cone biopsy or if the grading as described was more advanced, the procedure selected was the modified radical hysterectomy. Invasive squamous carcinoma was treated by means of irradiation or radical surgery. The use of the cytologic smear is the important means of follow-up and without repeated smears the conservative plan would not be advised.
Including physiological data in a science of behavior: A critical analysis

The position of behavior analysts on the inclusion of physiological data in behavior analysis varies. David Schaal, a contemporary behavior analyst, addressed advantages of such inclusion to behavior analysis with four arguments: (a) identification of retention mechanisms of operant conditioning; (b) physiology provides explanations when descriptions are not sufficient; (c) elucidation of cellular and neural mechanisms of reinforcement; and (d) characterization of degenerative alterations in the brain. The present paper provides further discussion of these points as to whether they truly represent an advantage to behavior analysis. It is argued and exemplified that behavior analysis and neuroscience are not mutually exclusive. Finally, the conditions under which the inclusion of physiological data in behavior analysis represents an advantage to the field are delineated.
Female Rats Demonstrate Improved Locomotor Recovery and Greater Preservation of White and Gray Matter after Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Compared to Males

Abstract The possibility of a gender-related difference in recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a controversial subject. Current empirical animal research lacks sizable test groups to definitively determine whether significant differences exist. Evaluating locomotor recovery variances between sexes following a precise, clinically relevant spinal cord contusion model can provide valuable insight into a possible gender-related advantage in outcome post-SCI. In the current study, we hypothesized that by employing larger sample sizes in a reproducible contusive SCI paradigm, subtle distinctions in locomotor recovery between sexes, if they exist, would be elucidated through a broad range of behavioral tests. During 13 weeks of functional assessment after a thoracic (T8) contusive SCI in rat, significant differences owing to gender existed for the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan score and CatWalk hindlimb swing, support four, and single stance analyses. Significant differences in locomotor performance ...
Hollywood to Classroom: Writing Advice from a Master Storyteller (Book Review)

A review of William Goldman, Adventures in the Screen Trade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting (Warner Books 1983), 594 pp.
Cooperative equilibria in finite horizon noncooperative supergames

Abstract It is well known that cooperative outcomes can be supported by noncooperative equilibrium strategy combinations in games that are infinitely repeated; however, the example of the repeated prisoner's dilemma has led people to conclude that such cooperative outcomes cannot be sustained if the game is repeated finitely often. In this paper it is proved that the belief about finitely repeated games is false. Conditions are given that allow the existence of cooperative outcomes in finitely repeated games that are supported by subgame perfect noncooperative equilibrium strategies.
All aboard the cyclin train: subcellular trafficking of cyclins and their CDK partners

Progression through the cell cycle is governed by the periodic activation and inactivation of cyclin-dependent kinase complexes (CDK-cyclins). Although the enzymatic activity of these complexes is regulated tightly, it has recently been demonstrated that an additional facet of cell-cycle control involves the modulation of CDK-cyclin subcellular localization. Recent discoveries include the identification of nuclear transport factors responsible for ferrying some of the CDK-cyclins in and out of the nucleus, the demonstration that phosphorylation can regulate these transport processes and the establishment of potential links between cell-cycle checkpoints and the control of CDK-cyclin subcellular localization.
Assessment of endothelial glycocalyx disruption in term parturients receiving a fluid bolus before spinal anesthesia: a prospective observational study.

Abstract Background Fluid bolus administration is a standard treatment for hypotension. However, the effectiveness of the traditional prophylactic bolus in parturients undergoing spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery has been questioned. One potential mechanism for the failure of a prophylactic fluid bolus to prevent hypotension is hypervolemia-induced destruction of the endothelial glycocalyx, a structure that plays a vital role in regulating intravascular fluid shifts. Methods Thirty healthy parturients undergoing elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia were recruited. Known endothelial glycocalyx biomarkers, heparan sulfate and syndecan-1 along with atrial natriuretic peptide, were measured before and after a 750-mL crystalloid fluid bolus. Cardiac performance parameters, cardiac index and systemic vascular resistance, were monitored during the fluid bolus using thoracic-impedance cardiography. Results A significant increase in both heparan sulfate 96ng/mg ( P =0.0098) and syndecan-1 2.4ng/mg ( P =0.045) were observed after the fluid bolus. There was a non-significant increase in atrial natriuretic peptide 0.6pg/mg ( P =0.293). Cardiac parameters showed a small but significant change; over an average of 15min, cardiac index increased by 0.1L/min/m 2 ( P =0.0005) and systemic vascular resistance decreased by 30.7dyn.s/cm 5 ( P =0.0025). Conclusions A prophylactic fluid bolus in parturients undergoing spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery disrupts the endothelial glycocalyx, as noted by a statistically significant increase in post-bolus heparan sulfate and syndecan-1 levels. Although studied in the past, atrial natriuretic peptide could not explain this disruption. Our fluid bolus did not have a clinically relevant effect on cardiac performance.
Correlation of Changes in Gravity, Elevation, and Strain in Southern California

Measurements made once or twice a year from 1977 through 1982 show large correlated changes in gravity, elevation, and strain in several southern California networks. Precise gravity surveys indicate changes of as much as 25 microgals between surveys 6 months apart. Repeated surveys show that annual elevation changes as large as 100 millimeters occur along baselines 40 to 100 kilometers long. Laser-ranging surveys reveal coherent changes in areal strain of 1 to 2 parts per million occurred over much of southern California during 1978 and 1979. Although the precision of these measuring systems has been questioned, the rather good agreement among them suggests that the observed changes reflect true crustal deformation.
Electron-donation by methylpolysilanyl groups: σ+ constants from 13C NMR spectroscopy

Carbon-13 NMR spectra have been determined for some methylpolysilanylbenzenes and trimethylsilymethylbenzenes. Relative electron-release of these groups toward the benzene ring was calculated as σ+ constants from the chemical shift of the para carbon atom. The orders of electron-donation found are (Me3Si)3Si > (Me3si)2SiMe ∼ cyclo-Si5Me9 ∼ cyclo-Si6Me11 > Me5Si2 ∼ Me3Si- (SiMe2)2 ∼ cyclo-Si5Me9SiMe2 ∼ Ph(SiMe2)2 ∼ Ph(SiMe2) > Me3Si > PhMe2Si; and (Me3Si)2CH > (Me3Si)3C > Me3SiCH2 > CH3.
Racial Differences in Life Satisfaction

The determination of life statisfaction in the United States has received considerable empirical attention in recent years. In the search for predictive correlates of satisfaction numerous variables have been examined including age (Robinson and Shaver, 1970), sex (Bradburn, 1969), race (Marans and Rodgers, 1972), socioeconomic status (Alston and Dudley, 1973), health (Youmans, 1973), and religiosity (Edwards and Klemmack, 1972). While most of these variables have consistently emerged as being related to life satisfaction (cf. Palmore and Luikart, 1972), the findings related to race have been ambiguous and often contradictory. One the one hand, Davis (1965), Bradburn (1969), and Marans and Rodgers (1972) found blacks to score lower on various indices of satisfaction with life than whites. Bradburn (1969: 49) best sums up the general interpretation of these results:
INCOMMENSURABLES AND TRADEOFFS IN WATER RESOURCES PLANNING

: Society has many objectives, many of which are not commensurable. This incommensurability problem is generally referred to as the multiple objective problem and leads to the notion of tradeoffs. Various approaches to calculating tradeoffs in water resource development have been advocated by several authors. Many have made errors in the context of the conceptural model presented in this paper. It is argued the correct framework for tradeoff analysis is the neoclassical economic model. The relevant tradeoffs, then, are really price ratios. These, in turn, must be calculated in such a manner as to allow comparison of product mixes where the expenditure on resources is the same. This is where several authors have erred. An empirical example which illustrates the correct application of the model is presented.
Robustness of Irt Parameter Estimation to Violations of The Unidimensionality Assumption

Multidimensional item response data were created from a hierarchical factor model under a variety of conditions. The strength of a second-order general factor, the number of first-order common factors, the distribution of items loading on those common factors, and the number of items in simulated tests were systematically manipulated. The computer program LOGIST effectively recovered both item parameters and trait parameters implied by the general factor in nearly all of the experimental conditions. Implications of these findings for computerized adaptive testing, investigations of item bias, and other applications of item response theory models are discussed.
Precise structural vulnerability assessment via mathematical programming

Network vulnerability assessment is an indispensable component of attack risk reduction and proactive response. However, traditional assessment methods simply assume the attacks only target at nodes with high degree or betweenness centrality, thus fail to capture the worst-case scenarios under simultaneous failures. In our previous work, we formulated assessing network vulnerability as optimization problems, so-called β-edge disruptor and β-vertex disruptor, to identify the minimum cost critical infrastructures that removal expose the network to a certain disruption level. Here, the disruption is measured as the fraction of node pairs with no paths between them in the residual network. In this paper, we present an exact analytical solution for the vulnerability assessment problems i.e. an exact branch-and-cut algorithm to solve the integer programming formulation of the β-vertex disruptor. The two intriguing aspects of the algorithms are an efficient Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) formulation, called sparse metric, and vertex-cut inequalities, a specialized cutting plane procedure that tightens the bound on the optimal solutions. Experiments on both synthetic and real-world networks suggest that our algorithm yields a significant improvement on a large variety of network instances, raising the size of the largest instance solved from several dozen to several hundred nodes. Our techniques can be easily extended to many graph partitioning and connectivity optimization problems.
Prazosin and presynaptic alpha-receptors in the cardioaccelerator nerve of the dog

In vagotomized, spinal-sectioned dogs, prazosin and phentolamine enhanced positive chronotropic responses to cardiac accelerator nerve stimulation. In additional dogs the inhibition by clonidine of heart rate response to continuous accelerator nerve stimulation (presynaptic effect), and the vasopressor effect of clonidine (post-synaptic effect), were antagonized by prazosin, phentolamine and yohimbine; cumulative doses for 50% antagonism of the cardiac chronotropic effect were 103, 50 and 13 microgram/kg i.v., respectively, and those for 50% antagonism of the vasopressor effect were 39, 38 and 3 microgram/kg i.v., respectively. On isolated rabbit pulmonary artery, prazosin antagonized electrically evoked contractions but had no effect on 3H output, whereas yohimbine enhanced both. The results indicate that prazosin, like phentolamine and yohimbine, blocks presynaptic alpha-adrenergic receptors on the cardiac accelerator nerve of the dog but, unlike yohimbine, prazosin does not block these receptors on noradrenergic nerves of rabbit pulmonary artery. It is concluded that the relative activity of a compound at pre- and postsynaptic alpha-receptors is not the same for all organs. The results are discussed relative to the fact that prazosin causes hypotension without significant reflex tachycardia in dog and man.
Low-power, high-gain, and high-linearity SiGe BiCMOS wide-band low-noise amplifier

We present the design of two wide-band, low-power and low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) using SiGe BiCMOS technology. The distributed LNA demonstrated 0.1-23-GHz bandwidth and 14.5-dB gain with less than /spl plusmn/1-dB gain flatness. It exhibited 5-dB noise figure and 14.8-dBm output IP3, and dissipated 54-mW dc power. Comparable circuit performance was also obtained in the lumped LNA while utilizing only one-fifth the chip area of the distributed LNA.
Neutron detection via bubble chambers

Research investigating the application of pressure-cycled bubble chambers to fast neutron detection is described. Experiments with a Halon-filled chamber showed clear sensitivity to an AmBe neutron source and insensitivity to a (137)Cs gamma source. Bubble formation was documented using high-speed photography, and a ceramic piezo-electric transducer element registered the acoustic signature of bubble formation. In a second set of experiments, the bubble nucleation response of a Freon-134a chamber to an AmBe neutron source was documented with high-speed photography.
A neural synaptic compression codec for efficient image transmission

For efficient cellular communication channel usage, we propose a neural computation model for image coding. In a constant-time unsupervised learning, our neural model approximates optimal pattern clustering from training example images through a memory adaptation process, and builds a compression codebook in its synaptic weight matrix. This neural codebook can be distributed to both ends of a transmission channel for fast codec operations on general images. The transmission is merely the indices of the codebook entries best matching the patterns in the image to be transmitted. These indices can further be compressed through a classical entropy coding method to yield even more transmission reduction. Other advantages of our model are the low training time complexity, high utilization of neurons, robust pattern clustering capability, and simple computation. A VLSI implementation is also highly suitable for the intrinsic parallel nature of neural networks. Our compression results are competitive compared to JPEG and wavelet methods. We also reveal the general codebook's cross-compression results, filtering effects by special training methods, and learning enhancement techniques for obtaining a compact codebook to yield both high compression and picture quality.
Solid Optics: The Application Of Precision Manufacturing To Small, Complex Optical Systems

The Application of Precision Manufacturing to Small, Complex Optical SystemsH. John CaulfieldCenter for Applied OpticsUniversity of Alabama in HuntsvilleHuntsville, AL 35899AbstractA variety of approaches have been proposed in recent years for construction of Solid Optics. After abrief review of the goals and history, we describe a new, systematic approach. The new approach involvesthe total removal of air gaps from the system. This requires "solid air" for light propagation.
Optimization of ex vivo inducible nitric oxide synthase gene transfer to vein grafts.

Abstract Background: Vein graft failure as the result of intimal hyperplasia (IH) remains a significant clinical problem. Ex vivo modification of vein grafts using gene therapy is an attractive approach to attenuate IH. Gene transfer of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene effectively reduces IH. However, iNOS activity after gene transfer may be impaired by the availability of cofactor, such as tetrahydrobiopterin (BH 4 ). The purpose of this study is to determine the optimal conditions for ex vivo adenoviral-mediated iNOS gene transfer into arterial and venous vessels. Methods: Porcine internal jugular veins and carotid arteries were infected ex vivo with the adenoviral iNOS vector (AdiNOS) and with an adenovirus carrying the cDNA encoding guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase I (AdGTPCH), the rate-limiting enzyme for BH 4 synthesis. The production of nitrite, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), and biopterin were assessed daily. Results: Nitric oxide (NO) production after iNOS gene transfer was maximal when vessels were cotransduced with AdGTPCH. NO production in these vessels persisted for more than 10 days. Vein segments generated approximately 2-fold more nitrite, cGMP, and biopterin than arterial segments infected with AdiNOS/AdGTPCH. Submerging vein segments into adenoviral solution resulted in improved gene transfer with greater nitrite and cGMP release compared with infections carried out under pressure intraluminally. Similarly, injury to the vein segments before infection with AdiNOS resulted in less nitrite production. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that AdiNOS can efficiently transduce vein segments ex vivo and that the cotransfer of GTPCH can optimize iNOS enzymatic activity. This cotransfer technique may be used to engineer vein grafts before coronary artery bypass to prevent IH. (Surgery 1999;126:323-9.)
Effects of a Hospital Based Wellness and Exercise Program on Quality of Life of Children with Severe Burns

Abstract Objective To examine the effect of a 12-week Wellness and Exercise (W&E) program on the quality of life of pediatric burn survivors with burns of ≥40% total body surface area. We hypothesized this comprehensive regimen would improve physical and psychosocial outcomes. Methods Children were recruited for participation upon their discharge from the ICU. They were not taking anabolic/cardiovascular agents. Seventeen children participated in the W&E group and 14 children in the Standard of Care (SOC) group. Quality of life was assessed with the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) at discharge and 3 months. Children completed the CHQ-CF 87 and caregivers completed the CHQ-PF 28. Results The mean age of children in the W&E group was 14.07 ± 3.5 years and mean TBSA was 58 ± 11.8%. The mean age of children in the SOC group was 13.9 ± 3.1 years and mean TBSA was 49 ± 7.8%. ANOVA did not reveal statistically significant differences between the groups. Matched paired t-tests revealed that parents with children in the W&E group reported significant improvements with their children's physical functioning, role/social physical functioning, mental health, overall physical and psychosocial functioning after exercise. Conclusions These results are clinically relevant in that a comprehensive W&E program may be beneficial in promoting physical and psychosocial outcomes.
The Prevalence of Metacognitive Routes to Judgment

Metacognitive routes to judgment may be taken more often than suggested by Schwarz (2004). First, judgments that appear to be consistent with a systematic processing account may be based on higher order metacognitive theories. Specifically, individuals’ inferential judgments based on naive theories about retrieval ease may be interpreted to be potentially biased, resulting in an adjustment in the opposite direction of the initial judgment to correct for the bias. Second, whereas favorable attitudes may reflect the positive experience of processing fluency, favorable attitudes may also reflect naive theories at work. When the target (e.g., brand name, logo, etc.) can be more easily processed, the hedonic experience of processing fluency gives rise to more favorable attitudes toward the target. However, when information about the target (e.g., an ad highlighting benefits of the brand) can be more easily processed, individuals may interpret the experience of processing fluency based on naive theory and attribute the experience to the information being more persuasive, resulting in more favorable attitudes toward the target.
Smoking and attention: A review and reformulation of the stimulus-filter hypothesis

Abstract An accumulation of evidence suggests that smoking may be reinforcing, in part, due to nicotine's capacity to enhance attentional processing. Correspondingly, the stimulus-filter model of nicotine reinforcement asserts that nicotine facilitates cognitive performance by acting as a stimulus-barrier, thereby screening irrelevant and annoying stimuli from the smoker's awareness. A review of the available data suggests that while nicotine does appear to reliably enhance sustained, divided, and focused attention, the stimulus-filter model falls short of adequately explaining the findings. An alternative, attention allocation model of nicotine reinforcement is reviewed, the tenets of which suggest that nicotine differentially augments attentional processing via its propensity to: 1. (a) induce attentional narrowing, and 2. (b) increase perceptual processing capacity. The motivational implications of the model, including smokers ' use of nicotine to dampen stress, are discussed.
Pulmonary valve replacement after tetralogy of Fallot repair in preadolescent patients.

Background After tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) repair, severe pulmonary insufficiency is known to impair biventricular function. Pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) alleviates symptoms, normalizes right ventricular volumes, and improves ventricular function. Most studies addressing the role of PVR have examined older adolescents or adults. Less is known about the potential benefits of PVR in preadolescents with TOF and significant right ventricular dilatation. Methods We reviewed the clinical data for all preadolescents (≤13 years) with TOF who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) or PVR, or both. Serial cMRI data were analyzed to determine the change in indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume (RVEDV) and biventricular ventricular ejection fractions. Available cMRI data after PVR were compared with data before PVR. Results During the study period, 101 preadolescents with TOF had cMRI. The median age of complete repair was 6 months (range, 6 days to 3.4 years). The mean RVEDV at the first study was 135 ± 39 mL/m 2 . For 32 with serial cMRI studies, the RVEDV increased at a mean yearly rate of 9 mL/m 2 . Ventricular systolic function was impaired in 46 (46%). Forty-two patients underwent PVR at a mean age of 8 ± 3 years. No hospital deaths occurred, and no pulmonary valve reinterventions have been required. Conclusions Significant right ventricular dilatation is common in preadolescents after transannular patch repair of TOF. Routine follow-up of this population should incorporate cMRI. Further studies will be needed to determine whether a strategy of early PVR might improve intermediate-term outcome.
Cell‐type‐specific activation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase by salicylates

Salicylates inhibit signaling by tumor necrosis factor (TNF), including TNF-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). On the other hand, we recently showed that in normal human diploid fibroblasts sodium salicylate (NaSal) elicits activation of p38 MAPK but not activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Here we show that NaSal treatment of COS-1 or HT-29 cells produced a sustained c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation. Activation of JNK or p38 MAPK by NaSal (or aspirin) was not due to a nonspecific hyperosmotic effect because much higher molar concentrations of sorbitol or NaCl were required to produce a similar activation. Three structurally unrelated nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and indomethacin) failed to induce significant activation of JNK or p38 MAPK, suggesting that cyclooxygenase inhibition is not the underlying mechanism whereby salicylates induce p38 MAPK and JNK activation. Activation of JNK and p38 MAPKs may be relevant for some antiinflammatory actions of salicylates. J. Cell. Physiol. 179:109–114, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Isoelectric Focusing/Western Blotting: A Novel and Practical Method for Quantitation of Carbohydrate‐Deficient Transferrin in Alcoholics

Carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) has been described as the single, most accurate marker of chronic alcohol consumption. Rapid, sensitive, and specific measurement of serum CDT levels can thus provide important clinical information concerning patient diagnosis and treatment. To date, however, methods used for assessing CDT concentrations [e.g., analytical isoelectric focusing combined with immunofixation and micro anion-exchange chromatography followed by radioimmunoassay (RIA)] have not been practical enough for widespread laboratory application. In the present study, we examined the use of a different technique, namely isoelectric focusing (IEF) combined with Western blotting (IEF/WB). Serum proteins (20–40 μg) were first focused according to isoelectric points (pl) on highresolution agarose IEF gels (ampholyte pH range of 5–8) containing nonionic detergent. The focused proteins were transferred electrophoretically to nitrocellulose filters, and then stained immunochemically with antihuman transferrin IgG. IEF/WB completely resolved CDT (focusing at pl 5.7 and 5.9) from other serum transferring isoforms, as assessed with neuramidase-generated CDT standards. Computerized densitometric scanning of the immunoblots allowed CDT levels to be quantitated directly rather than as a quotient. Serum CDT content determined by IEF/WB was highly correlated (r2= 0.962; n= 17) with values determined previously by RIA. In a larger subject group, CDT levels (mg/liter) measured by IEF/WB were 139 ± 54 in recently-drinking alcoholics (n= 58), 81 ± 8 in abstaining alcoholics (n= 7), and 68 ± 16 in healthy control subjects (n= 16). These IEF/WB values for serum CDT are highly similar to those reported using other quantitation methods. Importantly, CDT levels as measured by IEF/WB were not influenced by the severity of liver disease among the recently-drinking alcoholics nor did nondrinkers with liver disease exhibit elevated IEF/WB CDT values. Serum CDT/total transferrin ratios (the latter measured by ELISA) offered no advantage over serum CDT alone to distinguish active and heavy drinking. In conclusion, we have developed a sensitive, accurate, and most importantly, practical method for quantitation of serum CDT, a highly-reliable marker of chronic alcohol consumption. Routine implementation of this technique by clinical laboratories can rapidly provide the physician with a powerful diagnostic tool.
Stochastic evolution equations in Hilbert spaces

In this paper we consider Ito's stochastic differential equation in Hilbert spaces. A strong solution is generated by the difference approximation. A regularity result is obtained for solutions to a class of parabolic stochastic partial differential equations. Hyperbolic stochastic evolution equations are also discussed.
Effects of adenosine and its derivatives on protein kinase activity of beef thyroid.

Abstract Effects of adenosine and some of its derivatives on beef protein kinase activity were investigated in vitro. Adenosine rapidly inhibited protein kinase activity in a dose-dependent manner. Significant inhibition occured with 10 μM and half-maximal inhibition at 100 μM adenosine. Inhibition was almost complete with 5 mM adenosine. Inhibition was similar whether protein kinase activity was assayed with or without cyclic AMP. The inhibition by adenosine was reversed by increasing the concentration of ATP and Lineweaver-Burk analysis indicated that adenosine inhibition was competitive with ATP. Addition of adenosine deaminase to the incubation medium prevented the inhibition induced by adenosine. Intact 1 and N6 positions of adenosine were important for the inhibition since their mondification was associated with loss of inhibition. Modification of the 8 position of adenosine decreased, but did not abolish, the inhibition. The 2 and 3 position of ribose did not seem to be critical since 2- and 3-deoxyadenosine produced inhibition similar to that of adenosine.
Integrated aircraft-controller design using linear matrix inequalities

A new methodology is presented for solving the problem of optimizing the aircraft parameters, such as the size of its control surfaces, while meeting openand closed-loop static and dynamic performance requirements. The approach proposed involves rewriting these requirements as linear matrix inequalities and solving a related constrained optimization problem for which efficient numerical solutions are available.
A quality-assurance assessment for constituents reported by the national atmospheric deposition program and the national trends network

Abstract A continuing quality-assurance program has been operated by the U.S. Geological Survey to evaluate any bias introduced by routine handling, shipping, and laboratory analyses of wet-deposition samples collected in the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) and National Trends Network (NTN). Blind-audit samples having a variety of constituent concentrations and values were selected. Only blind-audit samples with constituent concentrations and values less than the 95th-percentile concentration for natural wet-deposition samples were included in the analysis. Of the major ions, there was a significant increase of Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , Na 2+ , K + , SO 4 2− and Cl −1 in samples handled according to standard protocols and shipped in NADP/NTN sample-collection buckets. For 1979–1987, graphs of smoothed data showing the estimated contamination in blind-audit samples indicate a decrease in the median concentration and ranges of Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ and SO 4 2− contamination of blind-audit samples shipped in sample-collection buckets. Part of the contamination detected in blind-audit samples can be attributed to contact with the sample-collection bucket and lid; however, additional sources also seem to contaminate the blind-audit sample. Apparent decreases in the magnitude and range of sample contamination may be caused by differences in sample-collection bucket- and lid-washing procedures by the NADP/NTN Central Analytical Laboratory. Although the degree of bias is minimal for most constituents, summaries of the NADP/NTN data base may contain overestimates of Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , Na − , K + and SO 4 2− and Cl − concentrations, and underestimates of H + concentrations.
Asymmetric information, dividends, and external financing

We analyze a signaling game where firms' dividend announcements convey private information but the possible need to externally finance the dividend creates an incentive conflict between inside and outside investors. Consequently, the attempt to address an adverse selection problem creates (or exacerbates) moral hazard. The interaction of these two imperfect information problems results in equilibria that may be separating or pooling. Additionally, the equilibrium may be only partially separating, i.e., firms are incompletely identified.
Evaluation of Tarsal Navicular Stress Fracture Fixation Using Intraoperative O-arm Computed Tomography

Stress fractures of the tarsal navicular are high-risk injuries that can result in displacement, avascular necrosis, malunion, and nonunion. Delayed diagnosis and improper treatment can lead to lon...
Regulation of the cloned L-type cardiac calcium channel by cyclic-AMP-dependent protein kinase

Hormones can regulate cardiac L-type Ca2+ channels via cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) phosphorylation. However, regulation of the cloned L-type Ca2+ channel has been difficult to demonstrate conclusively. We stably transfected a human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cell with the cardiac alpha 1 and beta 2 subunits, then examined PKA modulation of the Ca2+ current. Although forskolin did not increase basal Ca2+ current, the PKA inhibitors, H-89 and Rp-cAMPS, could inhibit basal current. We reversed H-89 inhibition with either forskolin or okadaic acid. We conclude that the channel was phosphorylated under basal conditions, and that inhibition of PKA allowed dephosphorylation. These studies demonstrate that reversible PKA regulation of cloned Ca2+ channels can be studied in HEK-293 cells.
Spectral analysis for periodic solutions of the Cahn–Hilliard equation on \({\mathbb{R}}\)

We consider the spectrum associated with the linear operator obtained when the Cahn–Hilliard equation on \({\mathbb{R}}\) is linearized about a stationary periodic solution. Our analysis is particularly motivated by the study of spinodal decomposition, a phenomenon in which the rapid cooling (quenching) of a homogeneously mixed binary alloy causes separation to occur, resolving the mixture into regions of different crystalline structure, separated by steep transition layers. In this context, a natural problem regards the evolution of solutions initialized by small, random (in some sense) perturbations of the pre-quenching homogeneous state. Solutions initialized in this way appear to evolve transiently toward certain unstable periodic solutions, with the rate of evolution described by the spectrum associated with these periodic solutions. In the current paper, we use Evans function methods and a perturbation argument to locate the spectrum associated with such periodic solutions. We also briefly discuss a heuristic method due to Langer for relating our spectral information to coarsening rates.
Epigenetic priming: the target?

Despite major advances made over the past 2 decades in our understanding of underlying disease mechanisms, prognostication, risk-adapted treatment stratification, and patient care, clinical outcomes in AML (acute myeloid leukemia) remain overall poor.[1][1] This lack of improvement stresses the
The analysis of a two way factorial design with Weibull response

Samples of size n, type II censored at the r-th ordered observation are presumed to be drawn randomly from Weibull populations whose scale parameters are affected by the the levels of two external factors. The factor levels form the rows and columns of a two-way data layout. The Weibull shape parameter, though unknown, is presumed not to vary with the factor levels. Five hypotheses are considered for the scale parameter. The most general is that it is multiplicatively composed of row, column and interaction effects. Four further cases correspond to i) no interaction effect, ii) only a row effect, iii) only a column effect, and iv) no effects at all. Maximum likelihood estimates of the shape parameter and the factor effects are derived under each of the five hypotheses. It is established that the ratio of respective shape parameter estimates may be used to test each of the latter four hypotheses against the first. Tables of critical values determined by Monte Carlo simulation are given for analyzing the 2×...
Interaction of d, l-erythro- and d,l-threo-γ-fluoromethotrexate with human leukemia cell dihydrofolate reductase

Gamma-fluoromethotrexate (FMTX) is a poorly glutamylated mimic of the anti-cancer drug methotrexate (MTX) which is useful in studies of the roles of MTX poly-y-glutamates. A second chiral center occurs at C-4 of the 4-fluoroglutamate used to synthesize FMTX and, as a consequence, FMTX occurs as both D,L-eryrhro and D,L-the0 diastereomers. The interaction of both diastereomers with intracellular dihydrofolate reductase has been examined in the human leukemia cell line CCRF-CEM, using a centrifugal column technique. Measurements of the rate at which radiolabel was displaced from (3H)MTX-saturated dihydrofolate reductase following suspension of the cells in unlabeled drug indicated that MTX and the erythro isomer of FMTX gave essentially the same rate of displacement; the rate of displacement by the three isomer of FMTX was slower, but the interpretation of these data was ambiguous since the rate of transport of three-FMTX may have been limiting. In reciprocal experiments in which dihvdrofolate reductase was saturated with 13Hlervlhro-FMTX. the ervrhro isomer and MTX again behaved equivalently in terms of displacement. 'Whkn-dihydrofolate reductase was saturated with (3H)threo-FMTX, the radiolabel was clearly displaced at a much faster rate than either other radiolabel regardless of whether the displacing agent was MTX or the isomer. These results indicate a distinct stereospecificity for interaction of inhibitor with dihydrofolate reductase in which the rhreo isomer has a faster off-rate. Of the two FMTX diastereomers, the erythro isomer thus most closely mimics the properties of MTX. The role(s) of the poly(y-glutamyl)metabolites of MTXO in the cytotoxic mechanism and in the thera- peutic efficacy of this agent are currently topics of wide interest. The results from a number of lab- oratories using different model systems (reviewed in Refs 1 and 2) are consistent with these metabolites being involved in retaining intracellular concen- trations of MTX in excess of those in the extracellular space and above the level of DHFR, as is required for cytotoxicity (3). MTX polyglutamates may also directly inhibit sites in folate metabolism other than DHFR, such as thymidylate synthase (4) or amino- imidazolecarboxamide ribotide transformylase (S), thereby increasing the blockade of the pyrimidine and purine biosynthetic pathways caused by the MTX-induced decrease in reduced folate co-factors. These conclusions have been supported, in general, by investigations in which the rate and/or amount of synthesis of MTX polyglutamates has been cor- related with the property of interest.
Companions in Presence: Animal Assistants and Eldercare

Honoring the scholarship and teaching of Professor William M. Clements, this critically reflective essay expands the possibilities for a ministry of presence. The paper argues that animals can be helpful companions in care with elderly adults. The author draws from experiential stories, object relations theory, process theology, and empirical studies, to argue the beneficial aspects of animal assistants for human care receivers and caregivers. A creation-inclusive relational theology informs strategies for care.
Investigating Event Nitrate Dynamics in Paired Vegetative Treatment Areas Receiving Silage Bunker Runoff Using a Simple Mixing Approach

Groundwater nitrate, often found in areas containing intensive agriculture, poses a human health risk at concentrations greater than 10 mg/L NO3--N. Vegetative Treatment Areas (VTAs) are alternative treatment systems that have been proposed and implemented for the treatment of silage bunker runoff and other agricultural wastewaters on Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) and other farms. The objective of this study was to temporally and spatially characterize runoff movement and nitrate dynamics on the surface and in the groundwater within paired VTAs treating silage bunker runoff following a precipitation event. A conservative tracer was applied prior to rainfall, and tracer and nitrate concentrations were then monitored in surface-water collector and monitoring well networks in the VTAs. Preferential movement of runoff was observed on the surface and to the groundwater in both VTAs. Nitrate dynamics were localized within the VTAs and did not correlate well with runoff movement. Nitrate concentrations not attributable to bunker runoff in excess of 20 mg/L NO3--N were observed on the surface and in the shallow (61 cm) groundwater during the study. Observed groundwater nitrate concentrations were all less than 10 mg/L NO3--N at a 162 cm depth.
Downstream fining through selective particle sorting in an equilibrium drainage network

The phenomenon of downstream fining has been attributed to both particle abrasion and selective particle sorting; the latter is generally considered to play the dominant role within resistant lithologies. It has been recognized that tributaries can disrupt fining patterns; however, few downstream-fining studies have considered the entire fluvial network structure. Here we combine a theory for selective transport with a model of river-basin evolution in order to simulate the dynamics of selective sorting throughout a drainage network. Previous numerical modeling studies of single-thread or braided channels have treated downstream fining as a phenomenon driven by differential deposition rates. We show, however, that in an eroding drainage network, downstream fining emerges as a natural dynamic adjustment to variable water, sediment, and energy inputs, even under conditions of uniform size distribution in sediment flux. Thus, although selective deposition and abrasion clearly can and do play a role in some fluvial systems, neither is necessary to produce downstream fining within a drainage network.
Reversible immortalization of human primary cells by lentivector-mediated transfer of specific genes

We exploited the ability of lentiviral vectors to govern the stable transduction of cells irrespective of their cycling status to induce the reversible immortalization of human primary cells. First, bicistronic HIV-derived lentiviral vectors expressing GFP- and the HSV1 thymidine kinase and containing the LoxP sequence in their LTR (HLox) were used to transduce HeLa cells. Cre expression led to efficient proviral deletion, and unexcised cells could be eliminated by ganciclovir treatment. A human liver biopsy was then exposed to a combination of HLox vectors that harbored either the SV40 large T (TAg) or the human telomerase (hTERT) DNAs in place of GFP. This led to the isolation of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) clones that exhibited an immortalized phenotype while retaining most of the features of primary hLSEC. Complete growth arrest of these cells was observed in 2 days of Cre expression, and the resulting stationary culture could be kept for at least 2 weeks. Transduction of human adult pancreatic islets with HLox vectors coding for Tag and Bmi-1 also induced the proliferation of insulin-positive cells. These results indicate that lentivectors can be used to mediate the reversible immortalization of primary nondividing cells and should allow for the production of large supplies of a wide variety of human cells for both therapeutic and research purposes.
Implementing an E-Prescribing System in Outpatient Mental Health Programs

This study describes the implementation and evaluation of an electronic prescription ordering system and feedback report in three community-based mental health outpatient agencies and the usefulness of the system in improving psychiatrists’ prescribing behavior. Using the e-prescribing system as a data collection tool, feedback on evidence based prescribing practices for patients diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder or major affective disorder was provided to agency directors and prescribers via a monthly report. The results of the project were that e-prescribing tools can be installed at a reasonable cost with a short start up period. Although the feedback intervention did not show a significant reduction in questionable prescribing patterns, we should continue to investigate how to best use HIT to improve safety, reduce costs, and enhance the quality of healthcare. A better understanding of what prescribers find useful and the reasons why they are prescribing non-evidenced based medications is needed if interventions of this type are to be effective. Given the availability of administrative claims data and electronic prescribing technology, considerable potential exists to provide useful information for monitoring and clinical decision making in public mental health systems.