cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dietary manipulation of vulnerability to traumatic brain injury-induced neuronal plasma membrane permeability.

Abstract Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can produce physical disruptions in the plasma membranes of neurons, referred to as mechanoporation, which lead to increased cell permeability. We suspect that such trauma-induced membrane disruptions may be influenced by the physical properties of the plasma membrane, such as elasticity or rigidity. These membrane properties are influenced by lipid composition, which can be modulated via diet, leading to the intriguing possibility of prophylactically altering diet to confer resiliency to this mechanism of acute neuronal damage in TBI. In this proof-of-concept study, we used three different diets—one high in polyunsaturated fatty acids suggested to increase elasticity (Fish Oil), one high in saturated fatty acids and cholesterol suggested to increase rigidity (High Fat), and one standard rat chow (Control)—to alter brain plasma membrane lipid composition before subjecting rats to lateral fluid percussion injury (FPI). Lipid analysis (n = 12 rats) confirmed that diets altered brain fatty acid composition after 4 weeks of feeding, with the Fish Oil diet increasing unsaturated fatty acids, and interestingly, the High Fat diet increasing omega-6 docosapentaenoic acid. One cohort of animals (n = 34 rats) was assessed immediately after FPI or sham injury for acute changes in neuronal membrane permeability in the injury-adjacent cortex. Surprisingly, sham animals fed Fish Oil had increased membrane permeability, suggesting altered passive membrane properties. In contrast, injured animals fed the High Fat diet displayed less intense uptake of permeability marker, suggesting a reduced extent of injury-induced plasma membrane disruption, although the density of affected cells matched the other diet groups. In a separate cohort survived for 7 days after FPI (n = 48 rats), animals fed the High Fat diet exhibited a reduced lesion area. At both time points there were no statistically significant differences in inflammation. Unexpectedly, these results indicate that the High Fat diet, as opposed to the Fish Oil diet, beneficially modulated acute plasma membrane permeability and resulted in a smaller lesion size at 7 days post-injury. Additional studies are necessary to determine the impact of these various diets on behavioral outcomes post-TBI. Further investigation is also needed to understand the physical properties in neuronal plasma membranes that may underlie increased resiliency to trauma-induced disruptions and, importantly, to understand how these properties may be influenced by targeted dietary modifications for vulnerable populations.
Emergency Department Utilization Following Hepatopancreatic Surgery Among Medicare Beneficiaries

Care delivered in hospital-based emergency departments (ED) is a target for cost savings. ED utilization following hepatopancreatic surgery remains poorly defined. We sought to define the rate of ED utilization following liver and pancreatic resection, as well as to identify factors associated with ED visits post-discharge. The Medicare 100% Standard Analytic Files were used to identify Medicare beneficiaries who underwent hepatectomy or pancreatectomy between 2013 and 2017. Claims associated with ED services were identified using the relevant Revenue Center Codes. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes associated with ED care within 30 days of discharge were investigated. Among 37,707 patients who underwent hepatopancreatic surgery, 10,323 (27.4%) had at least one ED visit within 30 days of discharge. Patients presenting to the ED were more likely to be male (OR 1.13, 95%CI 1.07–1.18). Patients undergoing a pancreatectomy (OR 1.39, 95%CI 1.32–1.47), as well as patients who had a perioperative complication (OR 1.16, 95%CI 1.10–1.23) and patients not discharged home (OR 1.41, 95%CI 1.33–1.49), were more likely to require ED care. In contrast, patients undergoing resection for cancer or surgery for an elective basis were less likely to present to the ED postoperatively (OR 0.92, 95%CI 0.87–0.97 and OR 0.22, 95%CI 0.20–0.23, respectively). Patients often had multiple ED visits within 30 days of discharge as 37.2% of patients presented to the ED with at least 2 visits. Visits were also most common in the immediate postoperative period, with 30.9% of ED visits taking place in the first 2 days from discharge. Among patients requiring postoperative ED care, 53.9% were readmitted within 30 days. More than 1 in 4 patients undergoing hepatopancreatic surgery presented to the ED within 30 days of discharge, with most patients returning to the ED within the first week of discharge. A subset of patients had multiple ED visits. Future efforts should target patients most likely to be high ED utilizers to avoid the need for early post-discharge ED use.
Emma Frances Bloomleld, Communication Strategies for Engaging Climate Skeptics: Religion and the Environment

Emma Frances Bloomleld, Communication Strategies for Engaging Climate Skeptics: Religion and the Environment (London and New York: Routledge, 2019), 182 pp., $140 (hbk), ISBN: 978-1-138-58593-5.
A high fat, sugar, and salt Western diet induces motor-muscular and sensory dysfunctions and neurodegeneration in mice during aging: Ameliorative action of metformin

AIMS To explore the novel linkage between a Western diet combining high saturated fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) and neurological dysfunctions during aging as well as Metformin intervention, we assessed cerebral cortex abnormalities associated with sensory and motor dysfunctions and cellular and molecular insights in brains using HFSS-fed mice during aging. We also explored the effect of Metformin treatment on these mice. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were fed with HFSS and treated with metformin from 20 to 22 months of age, resembling human aging from 56 to 68 years of age (an entry phase of the aged portion of lifespan). RESULTS The motor and sensory cortexes in mice during aging after HFSS diet showed: (A) decreased motor-muscular and sensory functions; (B) reduced inflammation-resolving Arg-1+ microglia; (C) increased inflammatory iNOs+ microglia and TNFα levels; (D) enhanced abundance of amyloid-β peptide and of phosphorylated Tau. Metformin attenuated these changes. CONCLUSION A HFSS-combined diet caused motor-muscular and sensory dysfunctions, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration, whereas metformin counteracted these effects. Our findings show neuroinflammatory consequences of a HFSS diet in aging. Metformin curbs the HFSS-related neuroinflammation eliciting neuroprotection.
Study on semi‐active tuned mass damper with variable damping and stiffness under seismic excitations

SUMMARY In the present study, a semi-active tuned mass damper (STMD) with variable damping coefficient and stiffness is evaluated under seismic excitations. Variation of the damping ratio of the STMD is implemented through tracking the displacement of the STMD.If the tracked amplitude of the STMD is increasing, damping ratio of the STMD is set to zero, or else it is set to an appropriate nonzero value. Stiffness of the STMD is tuned through tracking the displacement of the primary structure, which is analyzed using a short-time Fourier transform-based control algorithm. Both far-field and near-fault ground motions are used to examine the effectiveness of the STMD and the control algorithm. Displacement time history and response (displacement and acceleration) spectra are obtained for the cases of an optimal passive TMD and an STMD. It is found that the STMD with variable damping ratio and frequency can effectively attenuate the seismic responses and outperform the optimal passive TMD. In addition, results are obtained for the case that damage occurs to the primary structure during an earthquake. The study indicates that the STMD controlled by the proposed algorithm can rapidly capture the variation of the structure and remains tuned with the primary structure, whereas the optimal TMD becomes off-tuned when damage occurs. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
VISION ALGORITHM FOR THE SOLAR ASPECT SYSTEM OF THE HIGH ENERGY REPLICATED OPTICS TO EXPLORE THE SUN MISSION

This work covers the design and test of a machine vision algorithm for generating high- accuracy pitch and yaw pointing solutions relative to the sun on a high altitude balloon. It describes how images were constructed by focusing an image of the sun onto a plate printed with a pattern of small cross-shaped fiducial markers. Images of this plate taken with an off-the-shelf camera were processed to determine relative position of the balloon payload to the sun. The algorithm is broken into four problems: circle detection, fiducial detection, fiducial identification, and image registration. Circle detection is handled by an "Average Intersection" method, fiducial detection by a matched filter approach, and identification with an ad-hoc method based on the spacing between fiducials. Performance is verified on real test data where possible, but otherwise uses artificially generated data. Pointing knowledge is ultimately verified to meet the 20 arcsecond requirement.
Density-dependent electron transport for accurate modeling of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs

We report on accurate modeling of GaN HEMTs for RF operation taking into account sheet charge density (n s ) dependence of electron velocity in 2-dimensional electron gases (2DEGs). Electron velocity characteristics of the channel directly impact DC and high frequency transistor performance, and it is critical to understand velocity at all charge density and field conditions to accurately predict large signal performance of GaN HEMTs. Previous models of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs have taken into account field dependence of electron velocity, but have not considered its dependence on channel sheet charge density [1]. In this work, we have directly measured velocity characteristics of 2DEGs as a function of field and sheet charge density, and used them to accurately simulate DC and small signal characteristics of GaN HEMTs. The work done here provides a method to accurately simulate DC and RF characteristics of GaN HEMTs over the entire bias range.
Neural stem cells as therapeutic agents for age-related brain repair.

Summary Neurogenesis occurs in two germinal centres of the adult brain and persists with increasing age, although at a reduced level. This observation, that the mature brain can support neurogenesis, has given rise to the hope that neural stem cells could be used to repair the brain by repopulating regions suffering from neuronal loss as a result of injury or disease. The aging brain is vulnerable to mild cognitive impairment, increasing incidence of stroke, and a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. However, most studies to date have focused on the young adult brain, and relatively little information is available about the regulation of neurogenesis in the aged brain or the potential of using neural stem cells to repair the aged brain. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on neurogenesis in the young adult brain and discusses the information available on age-related changes in neurogenesis. Possible therapeutic strategies using neural stem cells for repair of the aging brain are considered.
Further evidence for cyclic activation of the heterochromatic X chromosome in human females

Abstract The mucosa-cell sex chromatin count decreases at a fixed point in the menstrual cycle. It was predicted and shown that erythrocyte glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity rises significantly when the sex chromatin count decreases.
Recombination Distributions for Genetic Algorithms

Abstract Though genetic algorithms are loosely based on the principles of genetic variation and natural selection, the theory of mathematical genetics has not played a large role in most analyses of genetic algorithms. This paper reviews some well known results in mathematical genetics that use probability distributions to characterize the effects of recombination on multiple loci in the absence of selection. The relevance of this characterization to genetic algorithm research is illustrated by using it to quantify certain inductive biases associated with crossover operators. The potential significance of this work for the theory of genetic algorithms is discussed.
In situ detection of AP sites and DNA strand breaks bearing 3′-phosphate termini in ischemic mouse brain

Our aims were to examine whether oxidative DNA damage was elevated in brain cells of male C57BL/6 mice after oxidative stress, and to determine whether neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) was involved in such damage. Oxidative stress was induced by occluding both common carotid arteries for 90 min, followed by reperfusion. Escherichia coli exonuclease III (Exo III) removes apyrimidinic or apurinic (AP) sites and 3'-phosphate termini in single-strand breaks, and converts these lesions to 3'OH termini. These ExoIII-sensitive sites (EXOSS) can then be postlabeled using digoxigenin-11-dUTP and Klenow DNA polymerase-I, and detected using fluorescein isothiocyanate-IgG against digoxigenin. Compared with the non-ischemia controls, the density of EXOSS-positive cells was elevated at least 20-fold (P < 0.01) at 15 min of reperfusion, and remained elevated for another 30 min. EXOSS mainly occurred in the cell nuclei of the astrocytes and neurons. Signs of cell death were detected at 24 h of reperfusion and occurred mostly in the neurons. Both DNA damage and cell death in the cerebral cortical neurons were abolished by treatment with 3-bromo-7-nitroindazole (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), which specifically inhibited nNOS. Our results suggest that nNOS, its activator (calcium), and peroxynitrite exacerbate oxidative DNA damage after brain ischemia.-Huang, D., Shenoy, A., Cui, J., Huang, W., Liu, P. In situ detection of AP sites and DNA strand breaks bearing 3'-phosphate termini in ischemic mouse brain.
Tensile and Fracture Behavior of a Nitrogen-Strengthened, Chromium-Nickel-Manganese Stainless Steel at Cryogenic Temperatures

J-integral fracture and conventional tensile properties are reported for an electroslag remelted Fe-21Cr-6Ni-9Mn austenitic stainless steel that contains 0.28 percent nitrogen as an interstitial strengthening element. Results at room (295 K), liquid-nitrogen (76 K), and liquid-helium (4 K) temperatures demonstrated that the yield strength and fracture toughness of this alloy are inversely related and strongly temperature dependent. Over the investigated temperature range, the yield strength tripled to 1.24 GPa (180 ksi) at 4 K. The fracture toughness, as measured using 3.8-cm-thick (1.5 in.) compact specimens, decreased considerably between 295 and 4 K. During plastic deformation at 295 K the alloy undergoes slight martensitic transformation, but at 76 and 4 K it transforms extensively to martensites. The amount of body-centered cubic (bcc) martensite formed during tension tests was measured as a function of elongation.
The Energetic Electron Response to Magnetic Storms: HEO Satellite Observations

Abstract : The energetic electron observations from the HEO 97-068 satellite are used to study the electron response to magnetic storms in the inner magnetosphere during 1998-2002. The observations cover L values in the range 2.5 less than or equal L less than or equal 6. The same L values are covered at both high (>2.3 Re) and low ( 1.5 MeV electron fluxes were ^10-16% of the high-altitude fluxes for L = 3-5.5, except during the rapid post-storm flux rises. The decay of the post-storm electron fluxes were examined to obtain the e-folding decay times at L = 3, near the peak of the outer zone. The high-altitude >1.5 MeV electron fluxes were found to have three distinct l/e decay times of about 5, 10.5, and 17.5 days. The 5 and 10.5 day e- folding times ocurred in the first several days after the post-storm fluxes peaked during 2000-2001 and 1998 periods, respectively. The longer e-folding times occurred late in the decay history. These results support the view that the acceleration and loss mechanisms are operating essentially simultaneously over much of the outer zone.
Scanning and Mapping Strategies for CMB Experiments

CMB anisotropy experiments seeking to make maps with more pixels than the 6144 pixels used by the COBE DMR need to address the practical issues of the computer time and storage required to make maps. A simple, repetitive scan pattern reduces these requirements but leaves the experiment vulnerable to systematic errors and striping in the maps. In this paper I give a time-ordered method for map-making with one-horned experiments that has reasonable memory and CPU needs but can handle complex COBE-like scans paths and 1/f noise.
Plastic flow of crystals

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of plastic flow of crystals. Plastic flow under multiple slip, particularly in metallic crystals, has been widely studied by materials scientists and applied mechanicians since the early 1900s. Finite strain crystal plasticity is a rigorous nonlinear continuum theory. With few exceptions, subtleties of this theory such as multislip hardening and non-Schmid effects have not been tested sufficiently in critical experiments. In particular, through the interplay between small secondary slips and hardening, there is now compelling evidence that important effects largely have been ignored. Furthermore, because intermetallic compounds are currently of growing interest in high-temperature applications, non-Schmid effects, which are also important in BCC metals and alloys, should also be considered more seriously. In this chapter, recent studies of multiple-slip interactions and hardening are brought together within a time-independent theory, and their influence on strain localization is explored. It discusses in detail about yield behavior including non-Schmid effects. Flow behavior including non-Schmid effects is elaborated. Concepts of hardening behavior and strain localization are also explained in the chapter.
The salience network in the apathy of late-life depression.

Objective Apathy is prevalent in late-life depression and predicts poor response to antidepressants, chronicity of depression, disability, and greater burden to caregivers. However, little is known about its neurobiology. Salience processing provides motivational context to stimuli. The aim of this study was to examine the salience network (SN) resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) pattern in elderly depressed subjects with and without apathy.
Preparation of cellulose triacetate and cellulose tricarbanilate by nondegradative methods

A method for obtaining triacetate having a D.S. of 3.0 has been obtained by acetylating the cellulose with acetic anhydride–pyridine reagent containing a catalytic amount of acetyl chloride. The process is rapid and nondegradative. Cellulose tricarbanilate can be prepared without recourse to pyridine solutions by using dimethylformamide (DMF) as solvent and triethylenediamine (1,4-diazobicyclo[2.2.2]octane) as catalyst. The DMF solution of the cellulose tricarbanilate can be cast directly into films or the polymer easily recovered owing to the solubility of the reaction solvent and impurities in water.
Cognitive patterns of two types of aggressive felons.

Summary.-This investigation concerned a comparison of the opinions and attitudes of male felons incarcerated for homicidal or assaultive behavior and matched with subjects of a normal, control group. The 5 0 incarcerated and 50 control subjects were closely matched on age, sex, race, and education. A specially designed questionnaire of 330 items was administered one-to-one or in groups of rwo to five subjects. The felons were screened for current psychotic disturbance, heavy medication, and mental retardation. They were classified as either homicidal or assaultive by review of their official records and the judgment of two three-member panels of judges. The data were subjected ro one-way analysis of variance and an item analysis using the Lawshe and Baker technique for testing the significance of differences becween percentages. There have been some efforts, although not large scale ones to use psychological evaluations and psychometric scales to assess the traits of convicted felons. This effort is increasing; yet need for research continues. Notable has been the work of Megargee and Bohn (1979) in classifying criminal offenders. Studies have concerned differentiating between violent and nonviolent felons (Justice & Birkman, 1972; Wilds, 1973; Perdue & Lester, 1974; Justice, Justice, & Kraft, 1974; Lester, et dl., 1975; Hays, Roberts, & Solway, 1981; Wolfgang & Ferracuti, 1982 ) . METHOD An inmate group of aggressive felons was divided into two groups. Homicidal felons were 50 incarcerated men serving time for first-degree murder in a maximum security prison. These inmates were first identified by examination of their institutional records and then qualified by two panels of judges, one of three psychologists and the other of three experienced correctional officers who knew the felons. The assaultive felons were 50 men convicted for assaultive crimes other than murder. Examples would be assault, malicious cutting and wounding, or malicious shooting and wounding. These subjects were also classified on the basis of their official records. The normal control group of 50 male factory/industrial workers was comprised mostly of hourly employees and some college students with no previous record of a conviction for adult felony.
Pelvic exenteration for recurrent gynecologic malignancy: Survival and morbidity analysis of the 45-year experience at UCLA

Abstract Objective. To retrospectively assess the outcome of patients undergoing pelvic exenteration for recurrent or persistence gynecologic malignancy and the clinical features associated with outcome and survival. Methods. A review was conducted of patients who underwent pelvic exenteration over a 45-year period (1956–2001) at the UCLA Medical Center. Numerous clinical variables were analyzed, including time to relapse, type of exenteration and reconstructive operation, early ( 60 days) morbidity, and survival. Variables were analyzed by chi-square and life-table analysis. Results. Seventy-five patients (ages 26–74 years) had persistent cervical and vaginal (67) and uterine (8) cancer. Forty-six patients underwent total exenteration, 23 anterior, and 6 posterior. Sixty-nine (92%) patients underwent urinary diversion or neocystoplasty, 54 (72%) patients had a simultaneous neovagina created, and 43 of 52 (83%) patients who had a low colon resection had a primary reanastomosis. Twenty-nine patients died from recurrent malignancy, 28 were alive without disease, 11 were alive with disease, and 7 died from other causes at last follow-up. Survival for patients with cervical and vaginal cancer was 73% at 1 year, 57% at 3 years, and 54% at 5 years. Survival for patients with uterine cancer was 86% at 1 year, 62% at 3 and 5 years. The most frequent early morbidity was urinary tract infection, wound infection, and intestinal fistula; the most frequent late morbidity was urinary tract infection and intestinal obstruction. Conclusion. Pelvic exenteration in patients with recurrent cervical and vaginal malignancy is associated with a durable > 50% 5-year survival. Simultaneously performed pelvic reconstructive operations with a continent urinary diversion, the creation of a neovagina, and the reanastomosis of the colon with the formation of a J-pouch is now our standard; and these operations tend to improve the outcome of patients. Based on our initial experience, recurrent uterine corpus cancer in young women (
Cultured human leukemic non‐T/non‐B lymphoblasts and their stimulating capacity in “one‐way”mixed lymphocyte reaction. Suggestive evidence for early T‐cell or B‐cell precursors

It is now well recognized that a large proportion of cases with acute lymphoblastic leukemia are classified as non-T/non-B neoplastic disease. The origin of leukemic non-T/non-B cells is at present not known. It has been shown that fresh or cultured leukemic T lymphoblasts exert no stimulating capacity while leukemic B lymphoblasts exert a strong stimulation in "one-way" mixed lymphocyte reaction. It has also been shown that fresh leukemic cells from some patients with non-T/non-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia possess a strong stimulation while leukemic cells from other patients with this disease possess no stimulation on allogeneic lymphocytes. The present study shows that cultured leukemic lymphoblasts from 3 non-T/non-B cell lines (NALL-1, NALM-6 and NALM-16) consistently exert a strong stimulation on allogeneic lymphocytes. On the other hand, cultured leukemic lymphoblasts from 2 non-T/non-B cell lines (REH and KM-3) consistently fail to stimulate in "one-way" mixed lymphocyte reaction. Our data clearly support the speculation that leukemic non-T/non-B cells which possess the stimulating capacity may represent less differentiated leukemic B lymphoid cells (pre-B cells) and leukemic non-T/non-B cells which possess no stimulating capacity may represent less differentiated leukemic T lymphoid cells (per-T cells).
Toxins of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: New Perspectives

Toxin A is a protein with a molecular mass of approximately 66,000 daltons whose production is regulated by iron. The toxicity of toxin A is due to its ability to inhibit protein synthesis. A role for toxin A in infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa is supported by its extreme toxicity, its production by most clinical isolates, the decreased virulence of nontoxic mutants, and the results of immunologic studies of animals and humans.
MHD equilibrium properties of tokamak fusion reactor designs

The equilibrium properties of several Tokamak Reactor Designs are analyzed and compared for varying pressure and current profiles using the Princeton Equilibrium Code. It is found that the UWMAK configuration has a broader range of equilibria than the Princeton Reference Design configuration, but that the safety factor on axis is less than unity for peaked current distributions. The Argonne Experimental Power Reactor has a satisfactory range of equilibria, but a means of limiting or diverting the plasma has not yet been proposed, and this may substantially change the results obtained. (auth)
On the existence, uniqueness and regularity of the exterior stokes problem in R3

Conditions, under which a solution exls-ts, and 1s, unique for the statlonarp ftofces, pattern in exterior domains, in R3are dlscussed. The domains, constdered are the complements. In R3 of lounded star shaped-sets and the class of functions, for which existence ta. dlsplayed have "physically reasonable" lehavlor at infinity. 7hls class is. characterized ly, a finite Dieichlet intearal. We use a method that employs, a variational formulation of the p-rollem and avoids, the use of a Helmhoetz decomposltlon of vector fields in unlounded domains
Scaffolding morality: Positioning a socio-cultural construct

Abstract The concept of scaffolding, as originally introduced by Wood, Bruner, and Ross [(1976). The role of tutoring in problem solving. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry 17 , 89–100)] and later embedded within Vygotskian theory, has proven to be extremely valuable in its application to educational and psychological theory and practice. In recent years, there have been several attempts to alternatively expand and restrict the terminology and conceptual framework of the scaffolding concept. While movements within the fields of moral development and character education have not yet embraced this socio-cultural concept, it offers a useful tool in justifying and understanding common findings and practices. The character education movement seems particularly well-suited to benefit from scaffolding, within its original socio-cultural framing, in providing an improved understanding of current best practices as well as using the concept as a framework for future research and theoretical direction.
The Effects of Discredited Eyewitness Testimony: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract Attempts to replicate Loftus' (1974) finding that a discredited eyewitness was as influential as an eyewitness whose credibility was not challenged have met with conflicting results. In an attempt to resolve these conflicts, a meta-analysis was conducted to determine the overall results of the studies. The discredited witness was found to be more influential than a no-witness control condition but less influential than the unchallenged witness. These results are discussed in light of the methodological limitations of the studies reviewed.
Structural determination and quantitative analysis of bacterial phospholipids using liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry

Abstract This report presents a comprehensive spectral analysis of common bacterial phospholipids using electrospray/mass spectrometry (ESI/MS) under both negative and positive ionization conditions. Phospholipids under positive ionization yield sodium-adduct molecular ions which are most useful to determine the molecular mass of the compounds. Nitrogen-containing phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylserine yield abundant protonated ions, which are absent in the mass spectra of nitrogen-free phospholipids, (e.g. phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidylglycerol). Phospholipids generally fragment at the glycerol-phosphate bond, resulting in diglyceride ions and ions of the polar head groups of the compounds. Negative ESI/MS spectra provide salient information on the regiochemistry of the phospholipids. Fatty acid composition and distribution can be clearly assigned based on the intensity ratio of sn−2/sn−1 fragment ions. Interfacing liquid chromatography with ESI/MS enables the preseparation and quantitative determination of phospholipids with high sensitivity (picomoles/μl). This is an order of magnitude higher than that of previously published methods. Results of phospholipid analyses of a Type II methylotrophic bacterium Methylosinus trichosporium (strain OB3b) showed that the determination of intact phospholipids is promising in bacterial identification.
Association of influenza vaccination on decreased stillbirth rate.

Objective We have previously shown a decrease in the overall stillbirth rate at our institution in women receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine during pregnancy. The goal of this study was to ascertain factors associated with this decrease. Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study examining the stillbirth rate, etiology, autopsy findings, and placental pathology in pregnant women receiving the seasonal trivalent inactive influenza vaccine during five influenza seasons between 2003 and 2008. All stillbirths at our institution are investigated by a committee and an etiology is assigned. Autopsy is offered to all patients and placental evaluation is performed routinely. Results During the study period, 8,690 pregnant women received the seasonal influenza vaccine antepartum and delivered at our institution. Thirty of these births were complicated by stillbirth as compared with 436 stillbirths in the 76,153 women not vaccinated (0.35 vs. 0.57%, p = 0.006). No association was identified between assigned causes of stillbirth when comparing vaccinated and nonvaccinated women. Conclusion No specific etiology commonly associated with stillbirth was identified to have been affected by maternal antepartum influenza vaccination.
Comment on “Electromagnetic momentum conservation in media”, by I. Brevik and S. Å. Ellingsen, Ann. Phys. 326 (2011) 754

Abstract A recent article by Brevik and Ellingsen discusses electromagnetic momentum in a configuration consisting of a point charge and a long solenoid, immersed in a dielectric medium of uniform permittivity. Because they neglect the “hidden” momentum in the solenoid, their treatment is potentially misleading.
The metabolic syndrome and the clinician

The diagnosis of the Metabolic Syndrome is somewhat controversial, with many definitions and some arguments as to the need for a diagnosis. From the viewpoint of clinical medicine, however, the concept is highly useful in organizing our interest in prevention of the consequences of this condition.
Constrictive pericarditis as a late complication of meningococcal pericarditis.

Abstract Meningococcal pericarditis is a rare illness seen as a complication of meningococcal meningitis, 1 with a reported incidence ranging from 0 of 8,844 cases to 6 of 32 cases treated in young Army trainees. 2 Pericardial tamponade and, rarely, acute pericardial constriction have been described. We report a case of constrictive pericarditis that occurred 13 years after an episode of meningococcal pericarditis.
Automated diagnosis of software configuration errors

The behavior of a software system often depends on how that system is configured. Small configuration errors can lead to hard-to-diagnose undesired behaviors. We present a technique (and its tool implementation, called ConfDiagnoser) to identify the root cause of a configuration error - a single configuration option that can be changed to produce desired behavior. Our technique uses static analysis, dynamic profiling, and statistical analysis to link the undesired behavior to specific configuration options. It differs from existing approaches in two key aspects: it does not require users to provide a testing oracle (to check whether the software functions correctly) and thus is fully automated; and it can diagnose both crashing and non-crashing errors. We evaluated ConfDiagnoser on 5 non-crashing configuration errors and 9 crashing configuration errors from 5 configurable software systems written in Java. On average, the root cause was ConfDiagnoser's fifth-ranked suggestion; in 10 out of 14 errors, the root cause was one of the top 3 suggestions; and more than half of the time, the root cause was the first suggestion.
A photo-electroanalyzer for determination of volatile nitrosamines

Abstract An apparatus is described in which an aqueous stream of 5 mM NaOH is irradiated by a xenon arc lamp. Nitrosamines injected into the aqueous stream are photochemically decomposed to give nitrite as a product. The nitrite is concentrated by adsorption on an anion-exchange column and subsequently stripped with 0.01 M HClO 4 . The effluent stream containing nitrite is mixed with a stream of 9 M HC1 and the nitrite is detected electrochemically by a flow-through platinum electrode. The detection limit corresponds to injection of approximately 1 ng of N -nitrosodipropylamine.
Turbulence Measurements from a Towed Body

Abstract A towed body suitable for measuring oceanic velocity and temperature microstructure is described. The development was motivated by i) a requirement for long times series to produce statistically reliable estimates of dissipation rates, ii) the desire to observe salt fingers directly, and iii) the need to map the horizontal distribution of turbulence. The major problem with towed measurements is the contamination of the velocity signal by body vibrations which has been reduced by making the body almost neutrally buoyant and by minimizing aerodynamic forces. System noise in terms of ϵ, the rate of dissipation of kinetic enemy, is 2 × 10−6 W m−3, less than “typical” values of 10−4 W m−3 in wind mixing layers and 10−5 W m−3 in the seasonal thermocline. Observations over the continental slope off Monterey Bay show a 1700 meter long turbulent layer in the seasonal thermocline. Values of log10ϵ are normally distributed with a standard deviation of 0.3. There is a significant excess of small dissipation ...
Studies of the in vitro human plasma degradation of methionine-enkephalin

Abstract 1. 1. Incubation of [ 3 H]tyrosine methionine-enkephalin (6 × 10 −9 M final concentration) with human platelet-poor plasma (1:9 ratio to Trizma Base buffer, pH 7.4) results mostly (>95%) in hydrolysis of the tyrosyl-glycine peptide bond. This enzymatic reaction is essentially completed within 90 min, showing a half-life, K m and V max of 12.8 ± 2.5 min, 0.70 ± 0.01 mM and 17.90 ± 1.05 μ mol/L/min, respectively. These values are comparable to those previously reported for the human plasma degradation of leucine-enkephalin. 2. 2. As expected hydrolysis of the methionine-enkephalin tyrosyl-glycine peptide bond was blocked by the known aminopeptidase inhibitors bestatin and puromycin (IC 50 1.2 ± 0.4 and 4.3 ± 2.4 μ M, respectively) but not by either thiorphan or captopril. 3. 3. Neither the storing (up to 60 days) nor the freezing and thawing (up to ten times during a 60 days periods) significantly changed the above kinetic parameters, showing the stability of the plasma methionine-enkephalin degrading aminopeptidase.
EFFECTS OF VALPROIC ACID, NALOXONE AND HYDROCORTISONE IN NELSON'S SYNDROME AND CUSHING'S DISEASE

Two patients with Nelson's syndrome and one patient after bilateral adrenalectomy for Cushing's disease, without any evidence of Nelson's syndrome, were studied with respect to the effect of hydrocortisone, naloxone and valproic acid (a GABA transaminase inhibitor) on ACTH secretion. Hydrocortisone suppressed plasma ACTH concentrations to normal in the patient without Nelson's syndrome, but failed to do so in the two patients with Nelson's syndrome. Naloxone and valproic acid caused a decline in plasma ACTH concentrations in the patients with Nelson's syndrome, but produced no change in the patient without Nelson's syndrome. Secretion of ACTH may thus be influenced by both opiate peptide and by gamma aminobutyric acid, as well as by the cortisol concentration, these agents may act at different sites to inhibit ACTH release by the tumour.
Simulating instrumental phase errors for SIM

The Space Interferometer Mission (SIM) has considerably capabilities for imaging of complex targets with the resolution of a diffraction-limited 12 m telescope. The exact performance of SIM in this regard depends--among other factors--critically on its mechanical stability. For example, structural vibrations will lead to errors in the delay line position and thus in the derived phase of the incoming wavefront. Depending on the time constants of such vibrations and on whether or not they are random in nature, image reconstruction can be affected in different ways.
Alternative theoretical bases: Toward a presuppositional critique

The more mature sciences began with extensive descriptions and interpretations of their objects of study. Communication has largely bypassed this necessary first step and has proceeded to questions of theory construction. The three position papers presuppose the existence of communicative phenomena appropriate for subsumption by their modes of explanation. This presupposition has been responsible, in part, for the theoretical confusion which gave rise to the perceived need for this symposium. We must engage in basic descriptive and interpretational work before we know what, if anything, needs theoretical accounting.
Reduced Atrial Tachyarrhythmia Susceptibility After Upgrade of Conventional Implanted Pulse Generator to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With Heart Failure

Reduced Atrial Tachyarrhythmia Susceptibility After Upgrade of Conventional Implanted Pulse Generator to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With Heart FailureDemetris Yannopoulos, Keith ...
Sensitive and selective detection of mycoplasma in cell culture samples using cantilever sensors

In this article we report a new biosensor-based method that is more sensitive and rapid than the current approach for detecting mycoplasma in cell culture samples. Piezoelectric-excited millimeter-sized cantilever (PEMC) sensors respond to mass change via resonant frequency change. They are sensitive at femtogram level and can be used directly in liquid for label-free detection. Common cell culture contaminant, Acholeplasma laidlawii was detected in both buffer and cell culture medium. Two different sources (positive control from a commercial kit and ATCC 23206) were analyzed using antibody-immobilized PEMC sensor. Resonant frequency decrease caused by binding of A. laidlawii was monitored in real-time using an impedance analyzer. Positive detection was confirmed by a second antibody binding. The limit of detection (LOD) was lower than 10(3) CFU/mL in cell culture medium using PEMC sensor while parallel ELISA assays showed LOD as 10(7) CFU/mL. This study shows that PEMC sensor can be used for sensitive and rapid mycoplasma detection in cell culture samples.
Λ -Nucleon Scattering and the Pion-Hyperon Coupling Constants

Using the prescription laid down by Brueckner and Watson, we have calculated the pion contribution to the hyperon-nucleon potentials for both even and odd $\ensuremath{\Sigma}$ parity. The coupled Schr\"odinger equations are solved numerically taking into account the $\ensuremath{\Lambda}\ensuremath{\Sigma}$ mass difference. Fitting the $\ensuremath{\Lambda}$-nucleon scattering lengths, as obtained from the hyperfragment data, we have determined the coupling constants. When we use the same core (${x}_{c}=0.35$ ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$) in all channels and ${{f}_{\mathrm{NN}}}^{2}=0.08125$, we find ${{f}_{\ensuremath{\Lambda}\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{2}={{f}_{\ensuremath{\Sigma}\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{2}=0.0841$ for the even $\ensuremath{\Sigma}$-parity case and ${{f}_{\ensuremath{\Sigma}\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{2}=0.0225$ (${f}_{\ensuremath{\Sigma}\ensuremath{\Sigma}}l0$) and ${{g}_{\ensuremath{\Lambda}\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{2}=0.578$ for the odd $\ensuremath{\Sigma}$-parity case. The rationalized pseudovector coupling constant we denote by $f$ and the rationalized scalar coupling constant by $g$. For these coupling constants and cores, we have calculated the cross sections for $\ensuremath{\Lambda}$-nucleon scattering below $\ensuremath{\Sigma}$ threshold. The results suggest the presence of attractive spin-orbit potentials.
Absorption of the biomimetic chromium cation Triaqua-μ3-oxo-μ-hexapropionatotrichromium(III) in rats

The cation [Cr3O(O2CCH2CH3)6(H2O)3]+ has been shown in vitro to mimic to the oligopeptide chromodulin’s ability to stimulate the tyrosine kinase activity of insulin receptor and shown in healthy and type 2 diabetic model rats to increase insulin sensitivity and decrease plasma total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides concentrations. However, the degree to which the complex is absorbed after gavage administration to rats had not been previously determined. The biomimetic cation at nutritional supplement levels is absorbed with greater than 60% efficiency, and at pharmacological levels, it is absorbed with greater than 40% efficiency, an order of magnitude greater absorption than that of CrCl3, Cr nicotinate, or Cr picolinate, currently marketed nutritional supplements. The difference in degree of absorption is readily explained by the stability and solubility of the cation.
Low temperature chemical vapor deposition of titanium nitride films from tetrakis(ethylmethylamido)titanium and ammonia

Abstract Titanium nitride films were deposited from tetrakis(ethylmethylamido)titanium and ammonia at 250–350°C and 0.7–2 Torr by thermal chemical vapor deposition. The effect of process parameters such as deposition temperature, precursor temperature, carrier gas flow, and ammonia flow on the film properties was studied, the apparent activation energy of film growth was calculated and the film composition was determined. The film step coverage was better than for films grown from tetrakis(dimethylamido)titanium and ammonia.
Studies on the sialic acid content of thyroid glands.

When TSH is injected into chicks with I131-labeled thyroids there is a concomitant depletion of I131, I127 and sialic acid from the thyroid gland during about 24 hr, presumably as components of thyroglobulin. The ratio of iodine to sialic acid in the material lost appears to be independent of the TSH dosage. However, the ratio of iodine to sialic acid changes with time during repletion after the thyroid has been depleted by TSH treatment. The data suggest that, under fasting conditions, the sialic acid content of the thyroid returns to normal levels more rapidly than does the iodine content.
The neural basis of a sensory filter in the Jamming Avoidance Response: No grandmother cells in sight

The Jamming Avoidance Response (JAR), during which weakly electric fish modulate their electric organ discharge rate in response to a foreign electric signal of nearly the same frequency is strongest for frequency differences (Δfs) between 3–8 Hz. We have searched for neural correlates of this behavioral specificity. Single unit recordings in the anterior lateral line ganglion (ALLG), the posterior lateral line lobe (PLLL) and the torus semicircularis (TS) ofEigenmannia virescens were made during electrical stimulation simulating jamming by a nearby conspecific.
A linear programming approach for synthesizing origin-destination trip tables from link traffic volumes

Abstract We present a nonproportional-assignment, user-equilibrium motivated, linear programming model for estimating origin-destination (O-D) trip tables from available data on link traffic volumes. The model is designed to determine a traffic equilibrium network flow solution that reproduces the link volume data, if such a solution exists. However, it recognizes that due to incomplete information, the traffic may not conform to an equilibrium flow pattern, and moreover, there might be inconsistencies in the observed link flow data. Accordingly, the model permits violations in the equilibrium conditions as well as deviations from the observed link flows but at suitable incurred penalties in the objective function. A column generation solution technique is presented to optimally solve the problem. This methodology is extended to the situation in which a specified prior target trip table is available and one is required to find a solution that also has a tendency to match this table as closely as possible. Implementation strategies are discussed and the proposed method is illustrated using some sample test networks from the literature.
Covariant gauge theory of strings

String theories are reformulated as gauge theories based on the reparametrization invariance. The differential geometry needed for such an approach is developed, leading to a set of constraint equations and an invariant action.
Diuretic-Induced Hypokalaemia and Ventricular Arrhythmias

In the past, adverse cardiac effects of potassium depletion in non-digitalised patients and in patients without cardiac disease were considered to be minimal. However, several studies have now demonstrated a significant incidence of ventricular ectopic activity in diuretic-treated patients, particularly in those who become hypokalaemic. Potassium repletion with potassium-sparing diuretics or with potassium chloride supplementation has generally demonstrated a beneficial therapeutic effect in reducing ventricular ectopic activity. However, occasional patients may have persistent ventricular ectopic activity after diuretic therapy which may result from focal myocardial lesions associated with potassium depletion. In addition, factors other than potassium depletion appear to initiate or magnify diuretic-induced ventricular ectopic activity. Thus, to avoid these adverse cardiac effects, normokalaemia should be maintained during long term diuretic therapy.
Newer strategies for effective evaluation of primary melanoma and treatment of stage III and IV disease

Our objective in this article is to update dermatologists on the clinical management of malignant melanoma, including the role of sentinel node biopsy and options for the treatment of stage III and stage IV disease. The role of the dermatologist throughout the continuum of care is emphasized, and the essential partnership with medical oncology in recognizing promising new options for patients with advanced disease is examined.