cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
hnRNP A2/B1 interacts with influenza A viral protein NS1 and inhibits virus replication potentially through suppressing NS1 RNA/protein levels and NS1 mRNA nuclear export

The NS1 protein of influenza viruses is a major virulence factor and exerts its function through interacting with viral/cellular RNAs and proteins. In this study, we identified heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2/B1 (hnRNP A2/B1) as an interacting partner of NS1 proteins by a proteomic method. Knockdown of hnRNP A2/B1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) resulted in higher levels of NS vRNA, NS1 mRNA, and NS1 protein in the virus-infected cells. In addition, we demonstrated that hnRNP A2/B1 proteins are associated with NS1 and NS2 mRNAs and that knockdown of hnRNP A2/B1 promotes transport of NS1 mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm in the infected cells. Lastly, we showed that knockdown of hnRNP A2/B1 leads to enhanced virus replication. Our results suggest that hnRNP A2/B1 plays an inhibitory role in the replication of influenza A virus in host cells potentially through suppressing NS1 RNA/protein levels and NS1 mRNA nucleocytoplasmic translocation.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone infusion as a novel treatment for postdural puncture headache.

Background and objectives In two patients, one scheduled for epidural anesthesia and the other for placement of a spinal catheter for operative procedures, severe postdural puncture headache developed and was refractory to conservative therapy. Methods The first patient had several unintentional dural punctures, and the second underwent a planned dural puncture with an 18-gauge needle for insertion of a 20-gauge catheter. When neither patient responded to conservative therapy following development of postdural puncture headache, an infusion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was given prior to consideration of epidural blood patching. Results Both patients obtained complete and permanent relief from their headaches. Conclusion A single treatment with ACTH may offer an alternative therapy in the treatment of postdural puncture headache.
Alveolar plate fenestrations and dehiscences of the human skull.

Summary A total of 108 adult Mexican Indian skulls were examined for the presence of alveolar plate fenestrations and dehiscences. The results of this study indicate the following: 1. Maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth exhibit more fenestrations and dehiscences than posterior teeth. 2. Maxillary first molars and cuspids and mandibular cuspids are most often associated with fenestrations and dehiscences. 3. Fenestrations and dehiscences are commonly associated with prominent tooth roots. 4. Fenestrations and dehiscences are also found in young adult skulls. 5. No relationship could be found between the number of fenestrations and dehiscences present and the age of the skull.
Excess molar isobaric heat capacities of (2-methylpentan-1-ol + n-hexane) and (2-ethylbutan-1-ol + n-hexane) at 298.15 K

Abstract Excess molar isobaric heat capacities are reported for (2-methylpentan-1-ol + n -hexane) and 2-ethylbutan-1-ol + n -hexane) at 298.15 K. For both mixtures, the curves are positive at all mole fractions x of the alcohol and are more skewed towards low x than our previous results for (hexan-1-ol + n -hexane).
Nefazodone treatment of comorbid alcohol dependence and Major depression

: Background: Major depression is a common comorbid condition among individuals with alcohol dependence. This study examined the effects of nefazodone, a norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake blocker and 5-hydroxytryptamine-2 receptor antagonist, on mood and anxiety symptoms and drinking behavior in a sample of depressed alcoholics. Methods: This study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled comparison of nefazodone (200–600 mg/day) or placebo in a sample of alcohol-dependent subjects (n= 41; 52% women) with current major depression. After a 1-week placebo lead-in period, subjects were randomly assigned to receive study medication and supportive psychotherapy for 10 weeks. Results: Depressive and anxiety symptoms declined significantly over time. Although the nefazodone group showed greater reductions in these symptoms, the effects did not reach statistical significance. Nonetheless, nefazodone-treated subjects showed a significantly greater reduction in heavy drinking days and in total drinks compared with placebo-treated subjects. Conclusions: The lack of significant effects on depression and anxiety symptoms may reflect limited statistical power. Despite the small sample size, nefazodone significantly reduced some measures of alcohol consumption in this sample of depressed alcoholics.
The impact of rent control on housing maintenance: A dynamic analysis incorporating European and North American rent regulations

Abstract This paper examines the widely accepted view that rent control leads to lower reinvestment in housing and, hence, lower housing quality. This view is based on fairly simple housing models and a very simple form of rent control that rarely occurs in practice. We consider the impact of rent control on housing maintenance within the framework of a dynamic model of housing reinvestment developed in Kutty (1995) that incorporates adjustment costs, durability of housing, uncertainty, and the role of future expectations. This paper develops a range of cases of rent control, incorporating particular features of actual rent control regulations prevalent in Europe and North America. We find that the impact of rent control on housing maintenance, within the theoretical framework of our dynamic model, is ambiguous. In most cases that we consider, though not in all, the level of reinvestment under rent control is lower than the level of reinvestment in the absence of rent control. Adjustment costs and future ...
Parallel SUMOylation-Dependent Pathways Mediate Gene- and Signal-Specific Transrepression by LXRs and PPARγ

Summary Transrepression is widely utilized to negatively regulate gene expression, but the mechanisms by which different nuclear receptors effect gene- and signal-specific transrepression programs remain poorly understood. Here, we report the identification of alternative SUMOylation-dependent mechanisms that enable PPARγ and LXRs to negatively regulate overlapping but distinct subsets of proinflammatory genes. Ligand-dependent conjugation of SUMO2/3 to LXRs or SUMO1 to PPARγ targets them to promoters of TLR target genes, where they prevent the signal-dependent removal of NCoR corepressor complexes required for transcriptional activation. SUMO1-PPARγ and SUMO2/3-LXRs inhibit distinct NCoR clearance mechanisms, allowing promoter- and TLR-specific patterns of repression. Mutational analysis and studies of naturally occurring oxysterol ligands indicate that the transactivation and SUMOylation-dependent transrepression activities of LXRs can be independently regulated. These studies define parallel but functionally distinct pathways that are utilized by PPARγ and LXRs to differentially regulate complex programs of gene expression that control immunity and homeostasis.
The synthesis and reactivity of β,γ-acetylenic and allenic sulfoxides and sulfones of dehydroepiandrosterone and their reactions with 1-butanethiol and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase

Abstract The synthesis of the β,γ-acetylenic sulfoxide 2a and sulfone 2b of 3β-hydroxy-androst-5-en-17-one (dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA) 1a are described. Isomerization of the β,γ-acetylenes 2a,b to their respective allenes 3a,b and their reactions with the nucleophile 1-butane-thiol, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were studied.
An Evaluation of the OECD 308 Water/Sediment Systems for Investigating the Biodegradation of Pharmaceuticals

In recent times, trace levels of pharmaceuticals detected in wastewater effluents and surface waters have raised the level of attention around the ultimate fate and the potential persistence of pharmaceuticals in the environment. We have seen the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicines (EMEA) recently include more rigorous environmental fate testing in European Union (EU) Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) guidance to assess the ultimate fate in water/sediment systems. Yet to date, there is little data available that covers the fate of pharmaceuticals in the water/sediment compartment, and little that assess whether current aerobic and anaerobic methods are appropriate for pharmaceuticals. In this study, the biodegradation profiles of 3 Pfizer products were investigated following the latest ERA guidance and its recommendation for OECD 308 water/sediment biodegradation testing. Experiments included 14C-labeled exemestane, azithromycin, and varenicline representing neutral and cationic pharmaceutic...
Identification of flow units in shaly sand reservoirs

Abstract The key to improving reservoir description and exploitation is to describe complex variations in pore geometry within different lithofacies. Variations in shale properties, shale distribution and pore geometrical attributes define the existence of distinct hydraulic (flow) units with similar fluid-flow characteristics in shaly sand reservoirs. This study proposes a new method for identifying hydraulic flow units in shaly sand reservoirs. The proposed method is based on the application of several shaly sand models, including the Coates—Dumanoir, and Waxman and Smits models, the Coates and Denoo, and Morris and Biggs correlations, and the Simandoux model. The developed equations indicate that for any flow unit, a log—log plot of a “reservoir quality index” (RQI) vs. porosity should yield a straight line with a characteristic slope; 1.5 for sand reservoirs, 2.5 for laminated shale and structural shale, and 3.5 for dispersed shale. The intercept of the straight line with φ = 1, designed as the “shale zone indicator” (SZI), is a unique parameter for each flow unit. The proposed technique has been successfully tested in shaly and very shaly sand reservoirs from Texas. The examples show that there are strong relationships between cation-exchange capacity, formation resistivity factor, permeability, and reservoir quality index and shale zone indicator. This paper includes the theoretical development, validates and characterizes the flow units to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed technique.
The contribution of elective delivery to severe respiratory distress at term

Abstract Objective: To determine the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) at 37, 38, 39, and 40 weeks of gestation and to determine whether elective delivery without documented fetal lung maturity accounts for a significant proportion of RDS requiring MV at 37–38 weeks of gestation. Methods: We identified all inborn neonates with RDS requiring MV delivered at 37 0/7–40 6/7 weeks of gestation from January 1, 1990 to December 31, 1999. Cases were excluded for sepsis, pneumonia, meconium aspiration, asphyxia, pulmonary hemorrhage, hydrops, chromosomal abnormality, or congenital malformations affecting respiration. Charts were reviewed to confirm gestational age, delivery reason (elective, spontaneous, or indicated), and the diagnosis of RDS: tachypnea, retractions, grunting, oxygen and ventilator requirement, chest X-ray indicating diffuse haziness, air bronchograms, granularity, and small lung volumes. Secondary neonatal outcomes included pulmonary air leak or severe pulmonary hypertension (ECMO or inhaled nitric oxide). Results: 35,031 deliveries occurred from 37 0/7–40 6/7 weeks of gestation, of which 18 (0.05%) were identified with RDS requiring MV. Nine infants were delivered at 37 0/7–37 6/7 weeks of gestation, mean 37.4 + 0.2 weeks (OR= 38.5; 95% CI= 8.3, 178.3); seven were delivered at 38 0/7–38 6/7 weeks of gestation, mean 38.4 + 0.2 weeks (OR= 13.3; 95% CI= 2.8, 64.0); and two were delivered at 39 0/7–40 6/7 weeks of gestation, mean 39.3 + 0.2 weeks (reference). Six of 18 infants were electively delivered without a mature lung profile. Secondary adverse neonatal outcomes occurred with similar frequency by gestational age. Conclusions: Infants born at 37 0/7–38 6/7 weeks of gestation experience RDS requiring MV significantly more often than infants delivered at 39 0/7–40 6/7 weeks of gestation. Six of 18 RDS cases (33%) may have been prevented by avoiding elective delivery before 39 weeks of gestation in the absence of documented fetal lung maturity.
Air and surface chlorpyrifos residues following residential broadcast and aerosol pesticide applications

Ambient air at three different heights and surface chlorpyrifos residues were measured for 7 days following broadcast (Dursban) and total release aerosol (K-RID) chlorpyrifos applications for flea control in four dormitory rooms. All rooms were ventilated with forced air for 30 min immediately following applications. One room of each type was then maintained with no ventilation, while the other rooms were ventilated by forced air for an additional 4 h and by ambient air on subsequent study days. Peak air concentrations of 118 μg/m3 (broadcast) and 82 μg/m3 (aerosol) were measured at 4−12 h postapplication. Concentrations decreased rapidly over the first 4 days post-application and remained low (1 μg/m3) and relatively constant on days 5−7. Forced air ventilation reduced air concentrations only transiently in the broadcast room, and subsequent ambient air ventilation had little effect. In the aerosol room, however, ventilation decreased air concentrations substantially. Broadcast applications resulted in 7...
The Interferon Regulatory Factor, IRF5, Is a Central Mediator of Toll-like Receptor 7 Signaling

Interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) are critical components of virus-induced immune activation and type I interferon regulation. IRF3 and IRF7 are activated in response to a variety of viruses or after engagement of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 3 and TLR4 by double-stranded RNA and lipopolysaccharide, respectively. The activation of IRF5, is much more restricted. Here we show that in contrast to IRF3 and IRF7, IRF5 is not a target of the TLR3 signaling pathway but is activated by TLR7 or TLR8 signaling. We also demonstrate that MyD88, interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinase 1, and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 are required for the activation of IRF5 and IRF7 in the TLR7 signaling pathway. Moreover, ectopic expression of IRF5 enabled type I interferon production in response to TLR7 signaling, whereas knockdown of IRF5 by small interfering RNA reduced type I interferon induction in response to the TLR7 ligand, R-848. IRF5 and IRF7, therefore, emerge from these studies as critical mediators of TLR7 signaling.
NUTRITIONAL AND SENSORY EVALUATION OF BREAD MADE FROM FERMENTED WHEAT MEAL AND CORN CHIPS MADE FROM FERMENTED CORN MEAL

Fermented wheat meal was significantly higher (P < 0.01) in relative nutritive value (% RNV), lysine, isoleucine and riboflavin than the nonfermented wheat meal. Even though there was a decline in % RNV, lysine and isoleucine in bread made from the fermented wheat meal, the % RNV, lysine and isoleucine contents were significantly higher in the bread made with fermented meal than in the control bread. The riboflavin content remained essentially the same in the bread made from fermented wheat meal as in the fermented meal. The loaf volume of bread was less than the control when fermented wheat meal was used. The same trend that was observed in the fermented and nonfermented wheat meal and bread occurred in the fermented and nonfermented corn meal and corn chips. The bread and corn chips were scored acceptable by consumer taste panel.
Analysis of the energy index as a benchmarking indicator of potential energy savings in the San Antonio, Texas single-family residential sector

Energy consumption baselines are essential in promoting energy efficiency programs in an effort to mitigate the environmental impacts of increasing consumption and increasing home sizes. This study calculates baselines, using site and source energy index (EI), of approximately 348,000 detached single-family homes in San Antonio, Texas to facilitate energy efficiency programs. The data analysis pairs building characteristics of individual houses with their energy consumption, allowing researchers to categorically study houses based on EI, vintage (year built), conditioned space (size), and type of fuel and energy utilized. This study found that the size of single-family detached houses has increased over time, while average site and source energy index values have decreased. The majority of single-family detached houses (45.8 % of total or 159,147 houses) have an energy index of 25–50 kBtu/sf/year (78.8–157.7 kWh/m2/year). The majority of all-electric single-family detached houses have been built since 1980, resulting in better performance than anticipated when compared with houses having access to natural gas. Most homes built after 1990 are distributed in the lower (more efficient) energy index categories, indicating that energy efficiency programs for newer, larger houses should be behavioral or educational in nature while programs for older houses should improve the infrastructure.
African-American Architects: In Current Practice

(1993). African-American Architects: In Current Practice. Journal of Architectural Education: Vol. 47, No. 2, pp. 117-119.
Assessing the methods needed for improved dengue mapping: a SWOT analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is a growing threat to human health in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. There is a demand from public officials for maps that capture the current distribution of dengue and maps that analyze risk factors to predict the future burden of disease. METHODS: To identify relevant articles, we searched Google Scholar, PubMed, BioMed Central, and WHOLIS (World Health Organization Library Database) for published articles with a specific set of dengue criteria between January 2002 and July 2013. RESULTS: After evaluating the currently available dengue models, we identified four key barriers to the creation of high-quality dengue maps: (1) data limitations related to the expense of diagnosing and reporting dengue cases in places where health information systems are underdeveloped; (2) issues related to the use of socioeconomic proxies in places with limited dengue incidence data; (3) mosquito ranges which may be changing as a result of climate changes; and (4) the challenges of mapping dengue events at a variety of scales. CONCLUSION: An ideal dengue map will present endemic and epidemic dengue information from both rural and urban areas. Overcoming the current barriers requires expanded collaboration and data sharing by geographers, epidemiologists, and entomologists. Enhanced mapping techniques would allow for improved visualizations of dengue rates and risks.
The pharmacology of novel oral anticoagulants

Anticoagulation for the prevention of stroke is an important aspect of the management of atrial fibrillation. Novel anticoagulants including oral factor Xa inhibitors rivaroxaban and apixaban and the direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran have emerged as important therapeutic treatment options for prevention of stroke in non-valvular atrial fibrillation. These agents offer practical advantages over traditional vitamin K antagonists, however an understanding of their individual pharmacokinetic and other agent-specific differences is essential for identifying appropriate candidates for therapy, and for selecting the appropriate agent that will be effective and safe. Here, we review the pharmacokinetic process of oral medication use, summarize the newer anticoagulants, their pharmacology, individual pharmacokinetic features, and explore possible explanations for the differences in bleeding outcomes observed in the clinical trials.
Reproductive performance of postpartum beef cows after short-term calf separation and dietary energy and protein supplementation

Abstract Beef cows (n = 294) calving between November and April in six states were used to evaluate the effects of postpartum diet and calf separation on body weight, body condition score (BCS), reproductive performance, and weaning weight of calves. In each state, half of the 48 cows that calved during 60 d were group fed an additional 4.5 kg of a 20% crude protein supplement daily for 28 d starting an average of 30 d post partum (flush). Calves were separated from half of the flush and half of the nonflush cows for 48 h at 14 and 28 d after the beginning of flush. Progesterone was quantified in plasma samples obtained weekly during a 56-d breeding period to assess ovarian luteal activity. The breeding period started at the first calf separation. BCS ranged from 3.3 to 5.6 among states (on a scale of 1 to 9) at the start of the flush but was similar for treatments within a state. There was a state × flush (P
Fruits, vegetables, and football: Findings from focus groups with alternative high school students regarding eating and physical activity

Abstract Purpose To increase our understanding of factors that may influence the dietary and physical activity practices of adolescents attending an alternative high school (AHS). Methods Seventy students (36 girls, 34 boys) from urban and suburban AHSs in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area participated in 7 focus groups to discuss their perceptions and opinions about factors that influence their eating and physical activity behaviors and to offer suggestions regarding school-based strategies to support and to promote healthy physical activity and eating practices among students. Mixed-gender groups were facilitated by a trained moderator by using a set of standardized questions to guide the 45- to 60-minute discussions. Focus groups were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed using a 3-step process for qualitative analysis. Results Time, cost, availability, and convenience were identified as key factors that influenced students’ food choices and the choice to be active physically. Access to healthy foods and physical activity was problematic, especially at school. Students also reported that social support from their friends, family, and teachers, and role-modeling behaviors of adults enhanced their likelihood of eating healthy foods and being active. Conclusions Study findings suggest that programs that target social-environmental factors that include norms, role models, social support, and opportunities to practice a health behavior have the potential to affect positively the dietary and physical activity practices of teenagers attending an AHS. Interventions that aim to increase opportunities at school to practice healthy eating and physical activity may be effective, especially in promoting and supporting healthy behavior change among students.
Seasonal Variations in the Initiation of Smoking Among Adolescents

Numerous studies have identified a variety of reasons that youths give for starting smoking. Few efforts have been made, however, to identify seasonal variations in initiation. This study was an attempt to fill that void. We examined data from 342 youths participating in a mandated smoking education and cessation program in Texas. Data were collected based on responses to questions in participant workbooks, including an item asking participants about the month in which they started smoking. A total of 47% of the participants indicated that they started smoking in May through August (chi2 = 91.42, df = 3). Post-hoc analyses indicated that significantly more youths than expected began smoking in May and June, whereas significantly fewer youths than expected began smoking in September and November. Unsupervised time out of school during the first months of summer vacation is a period of increased danger for smoking initiation. The significantly lower rates during September seem to be related to the beginning of school.
Chemical, dissolution stability and microscopic evaluation of suspensions of ibuprofen and sustained release ibuprofen-wax microspheres

Chemical stability studies of suspensions of ibuprofen powder and ibuprofen-wax microspheres were performed using an accelerated stability protocol with a modified high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) procedure. The variables considered were pH, suspending agents and temperature. The study showed little or no chemical degradation in the different suspending agents after storage for three months. Dissolution stability was examined in suspensions of ibuprofen microspheres made from an optimized formulation with 17% drug loading. The storage temperature were 23, 37 and 45 degrees C. Other variables for the dissolution stability studies were suspending agents, wax types, suspending medium pH and microsphere size. Suspensions of ceresine wax microspheres stored at 37 degrees C showed faster drug release than room temperature storage, but suspensions stored at 45 degrees C showed an opposite effect. Microspheres suspended in syrup and stored at 37 degrees C had faster dissolution rates than microspheres suspended in methylcellulose at the same temperature, possibly as a result of an interaction between the syrup and the microsphere constituents. Suspensions of microcrystalline wax microspheres had better dissolution stability than microspheres made from ceresine wax. Higher suspending medium pH resulted in faster release of drug from the suspended microspheres, but particle size did not significantly affect the dissolution stability.
Restricting the ligand-linked heme movement in Scapharca dimeric hemoglobin reveals tight coupling between distal and proximal contributions to cooperativity.

Cooperative ligand binding in the dimeric hemoglobin from the blood clam Scapharca inaequivalvis results primarily from tertiary, rather than quaternary, structural changes. Ligand binding is coupled with conformational changes of key residues, including Phe 97, which is extruded from the proximal heme pocket, and the heme group, which moves deeper into the heme pocket. We have tested the role of the heme movement in cooperative function by mutating Ile 114, at the base of the heme pocket. Replacement of this residue with a Met did not disturb the hemoglobin structure or significantly alter equilibrium ligand binding properties. In contrast, substitution with a Phe at position 114 inhibits the ligand-linked movement of the heme group, and substantially reduces oxygen affinity and cooperativity. As the extent of heme movement to the normal position of the ligated state is diminished, Phe 97 is inhibited from its movement into the interface upon ligand binding. These results indicate a tight coupling betwee...
The role of platelet-rich plasma in inducing musculoskeletal tissue healing.

Background Platelet-rich plasma [PRP] has received increasing interest across many musculoskeletal disciplines and has been widely applied clinically to stimulate tissue healing in numerous anatomical regions. The known actions of platelet-derived factors suggest that PRP may have significant potential in the treatment of pathological conditions of cartilage, tendon, ligament, and muscle.
A Comparison of the Kinetics of Low-Density Lipoprotein Oxidation Initiated by Copper or by Azobis(2-Amidinopropane)

This article describes the kinetics of low density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation catalyzed by azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride, ABAP, or by copper. The LDLs were isolated from nonhuman primates fed diets enriched in one of three types of fatty acids: saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, predominantly, oleic acid, or polyunsaturated fatty acids, predominantly linoleic acid. Oxidation was followed by monitoring the formation of conjugated diene hydroperoxides from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). For both copper and ABAP-initiated oxidation, the rate of LDL oxidation depended on the concentrations of initiator, PUFA, and LDL. Except for the dependence on PUFA concentration the rate of LDL oxidation was not directly influenced by the fatty acid composition of the LDL particle. The two initiators had very different dependence on initiator concentration. Because LDL particles are essentially small, lipid-rich droplets, the kinetic descriptions of LDL oxidation assumed: (1), that there was only one chain per particle, and (2) that the radical chain was terminated when a second radical either entered or was formed in the particle. When two LDL samples having very different lag times were mixed, the oxidation profile was bimodal. This finding demonstrated that the oxidation of native LDL particles was independent of the oxidation state of the other native LDL particles in solution, i.e., LDL particles do not rapidly exchange radicals, for example, hydroperoxyl radicals. Oxidation initiated by ABAP was proportional to [ABAP]0.5, suggesting that hydroperoxyl radical recombination between the lipid hydroperoxyl radical and the ABAP-hydroperoxyl radical was the chain-terminating step. The reciprocal of the rate of copper oxidation was linearly related to the reciprocal copper concentration, demonstrating that the binding of copper to LDL was necessary to initiate oxidation. This binding constant showed considerable variability among LDL samples. The kinetic descriptions of LDL oxidation reflect the differences in the mechanisms of initiation and termination.
Open Peritoneal Drainage in Horses With Experimentally Induced Peritonitis

Peritonitis was induced in 12 horses by median celiotomy and 1 hour of small intestinal ischemia. Six horses had primary closure of the incision, whereas six horses had a plastic mesh sutured to the ventral abdominal wall leaving the abdomen open for ventral drainage. The mesh was removed after 5 days and the abdominal wall was closed by apposition of the linea alba and subcutaneous tissues and approximation ef the skin edges. Peritoneal fluid was collected and analyzed for nucleated cell count and total protein concentration on days 0 and 5. Serum biochemical profiles, serum electrolyte concentrations, and complete blood counts were performed on days 0, 1, 2, 5, 6, 10, and 14. Body weight, rectal temperature, and physical examination findings were recorded daily for 30 days, then horses were euthanatized and the abdominal cavity was examined for the presence of adhesions. Histological examination was performed to assess the inflammatory response of the healing body wall; inflammation scores were significantly lower in horses that had primary closure of the incision. The mesh was well tolerated by all horses and allowed egress of peritoneal fluid for 5 days. Adhesions were present in four control horses and in two horses that had open peritoneal drainage. All horses that had open drainage developed incisional infections after mesh removal. Abdominal wall herniation did not occur in any of the horses. The mild peritonitis induced in this study was insufficient to establish the efficacy of open peritoneal drainage for an established peritonitis in horses; however, the results of this study indicate that open peritoneal drainage is feasible in horses.
Effect of the anode microstructure on the enhanced performance of solid oxide fuel cells

Abstract Anode microstructure has a vital effect on the performance of anode supported solid oxide fuel cells. High electrical conductivity, gas permeability and low polarization are the required features of anodes to achieve high power densities. The desired properties of the anodes were obtained by modifying their microstructural development using pyrolyzable pore former particles without introducing any functional layers and compositional modifications. The microstructures of fabricated anodes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry techniques while their electrochemical properties were identified using impedance spectroscopy and voltammetric measurements. Detailed investigations demonstrated that the pore structure has a major impact on the electrical conductivity, polarization and gas permeability of the anodes. Through tailoring of conventional anode microstructures, a significantly high power density of 1.54 W/cm 2 was achieved at 800 °C using diluted hydrogen (10% H 2 in argon) as fuel.
Tailoring HCCI heat-release rates with partial fuel stratification: Comparison of two-stage and single-stage-ignition fuels

Abstract This work concerns one of the major issues restricting the application of homogeneous charge compression-ignition (HCCI) engines, overly rapid combustion at high-load conditions, which can lead to engine knock and potential engine damage. To overcome this problem, partial fuel stratification was used, where most fuel was premixed with intake air and the rest of the fuel was directly injected during the compression stroke. To be effective, this technique depends critically on the fuel autoignition chemistry. PRF73, a mixture of 73 vol% isooctane and 27 vol% n -heptane that exhibits two-stage ignition under these conditions, successfully enabled control of the combustion heat-release rate with properly adjusted injection parameters. More than a 70% reduction in the maximum pressure-rise rate (PRR max ) was achieved, compared to the fully premixed case at the same combustion phasing. Meanwhile, combustion remained stable, efficient, and clean. In particular, NO x emissions were kept well below the US-2010 limits. On the other hand, isooctane, which exhibits single-stage ignition under the present conditions, responded much differently to partial fuel stratification. Instead of reducing PRR max , isooctane partial stratification increased PRR max and drastically raised NO x emissions and combustion instability. Such differences between single- and two-stage fuels result from the different response of their autoignition rates to the variations in equivalence ratio produced by partial fuel stratification, termed ϕ -sensitivity.
Multiple vortex formation in steady laminar axisymmetric impinging flow

Abstract Steady confined laminar axisymmetric impinging flow of a Newtonian fluid is relevant in many situations, an important application being heat and mass transfer from a solid surface to an impinging jet. This paper focuses on the evolution of the structure of the radial flow field in the channel region beyond the impingement zone. We employ an upwind scheme with an established numerical technique to solve the stream function and vorticity equations for a range of Reynolds numbers Re and geometrical aspect ratios e. Our results show the progressive complexity in the radial flow due to multiple points of flow separation and reattachment, and we provide a detailed demarcation of the Re–e plane based on flow separation behavior. In addition to the primary and secondary vortices anchored on the confining and impinging surfaces, respectively, we describe the formation and properties of a tertiary vortex which is wholly enclosed within the primary vortex. At a fixed Reynolds number, the tertiary vortex is observed only for a specific range of the aspect ratio, and we catalog its birth, growth and demise as the aspect ratio is varied. The range of aspect ratios over which the tertiary vortex exists is seen to increase with the Reynolds number. These results show that the fine structure of the radial flow at high Reynolds number continues to be dependent on the aspect ratio in a complex manner. At a given aspect ratio, the sizes of the vortices increases with Reynolds number, scaling as ∼Re1/3, and for sufficiently large Re, the length of the tertiary vortex can exceed that of the secondary vortex. The primary and secondary vortex lengths satisfy an asymptotic relationship V L P ∼ α V L S independent of Re and e, the numerically computed value of α being ∼2. Similarly, the locations of these vortices bear simple linear relationships independent of Re and e. Furthermore, despite the complex fine structure of the flow field, macroscopic flow properties such as vortex circulation and excess pressure loss continue to exhibit relatively simple dependence on Re and e, in accordance with previous results at much lower Reynolds numbers. Finally, some comments are made regarding the possibility of additional cascaded or isolated vortices occurring at even higher Reynolds numbers and aspect ratios.
Micromedullary Thyroid Cancer: How Micro Is Truly Micro?

The aggressive nature of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is evidenced by its propensity to present early with lymph node (LN) metastases. The clinical significance of sporadic MTC ≤1 cm (micro-MTC) is not clearly defined. We performed a retrospective review of the clinical, laboratory, and pathologic data for all patients treated or followed at our institution for sporadic micro-MTC from 1987 through 2008. A total of 18 patients met the criteria for inclusion in our study. All tumors were unifocal and C-cell hyperplasia distant from the tumors was uniformly absent. Fourteen (78%) patients underwent total thyroidectomy, and the remaining four (22%) patients with tumors ≤0.5 cm had lobectomy with isthmusectomy alone. Four (22%) patients were found to have LN metastases. However, none of the nine patients with tumors <0.5 cm had clinical evidence of LN metastases. Patients were followed for a median of 3.3 (mean, 4.5) years, and there were no deaths. Postoperative calcitonin levels were available for all patients, of whom 14 had normal levels (range, 0–3.9 pg/ml). The four patients with elevated postoperative calcitonin levels (range, 6.3–644 pg/ml) had tumors ranging from 0.7–0.9 cm in size. Tumors <0.5 cm were associated with a complete absence of clinically detectable nodal disease or elevated postoperative calcitonin levels. The complete absence of multifocal or bilateral disease argues against the need for completion thyroidectomy for sporadic micro-MTC.
Redefining Political-Military Relations in Latin America: Issues of the New Democratic Era:

With the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new democratic era, Latin America's militaries have plunged into a period of dramatic redefinition. New issues have emerged regarding how militaries are (or are not) incorporated into new democracies, and what those militaries should now be doing. At the same time, these changes have created fresh opportunities for deepening studies of military involvement in politics, comparing Latin American cases to cases outside the region, and furthering historical analysis. This article looks at new developments in the study of political-military relations in Latin America, beginning by exploring some new perspectives on more traditional questions in this area. It then moves on to explore some of the major new issues that have emerged in this period, from transitions to democracy and democratic consolidation, to alternative military missions in the post-Cold War period.
Eight Stages in Learning Motivational Interviewing

ABSTRACT Motivational interviewing (MI) is a clinical method for helping people to resolve ambivalence about change by evoking intrinsic motivation and commitment. Based on our research and experience in providing training on MI, practitioners acquire expertise in this method through a sequence of eight stages: (1) openness to collaboration with clients' own expertise, (2) proficiency in client-centered counseling, including accurate empathy, (3) recognition of key aspects of client speech that guide the practice of MI, (4) eliciting and strengthening client change talk, (5) rolling with resistance, (6) negotiating change plans, (7) consolidating client commitment, and (8) switching flexibly between MI and other intervention styles. These key skills are acquired roughly in order, with earlier steps representing logical prerequisites for later stages of skill acquisition.
Constant Stress Creep of XD ™ TiAl Containing Nitrogen

Ti-47at%Al+7vol%(TiN+TiB 2 ) alloys, produced by the Martin Marietta XD ™ process, were subjected to tensile constant stress creep deformation in the range 760-850°C temperature and 138–276 MPa (20–40 ksi) stress. These alloys have a matrix of TiAl and Ti 3 Al initially containing 1 to 10 μm diameter equiaxed particles of Ti 2 B and Ti 2 AlN. Microstructures were examined using optical, SEM and TEM methods in an attempt to correlate the substructures with the property data. In particular, fine coherent particles have been observed to decorate dislocations and the interior of TiAl grains. The presence of these particles is thought to explain the creep resistance of this alloy.
Expression of Sox9, Mis, and Dmrt1 in the gonad of a species with temperature‐dependent sex determination

Sex determination in vertebrates, the process of forming an ovary or testis from a bipotential gonad, can be initiated by genetic or environmental factors. Elements of the downstream molecular pathways underlying these different sex-determining mechanisms have been evolutionarily conserved. We find the first evidence that Sox9 expression is preferentially organized in the testis early in the temperature-sensitive period in a species with temperature-dependent sex determination (Trachemys scripta). This pattern occurs before sexually dimorphic Mis expression and in a temporal hierarchy that is similar to mammals. Furthermore, we extend previous findings that Dmrt1 expression at early stages of sex determination has a dimorphic pattern consistent with a possible upstream role in determining the fate of the bipotential gonad.
Infinite horizon optimization for finite state Markov chain

We consider the infinite horizon optimal control of a finite state Markov chain from the point of view of overtaking optimality and the long-run average cost. The stochastic model is cast into a deterministic framework by considering the distribution of the original state as a new state. We characterize and prove existence of stationary strategies which have minimal cost growth rate in the class of all nonanticipative strategies. Restricting attention only to stationary strategies we show that for every given initial state there exists an overtaking optimal strategy. Finally, under more restrictive conditions, we establish the existence of a stationary overtaking optimal strategy for all the initial conditions.
Coherent phonon dynamics in short-period InAs/GaSb superlattices

Abstract We have performed ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopy studies on a series of InAs/GaSb-based short-period superlattice (SL) samples with periods ranging from 46 A to 71 A. We observe two types of oscillations in the differential reflectivity with fast ( ∼ 1–2 ps) and slow ( ∼ 24 ps) periods. The period of the fast oscillations changes with the SL period and can be explained as coherent acoustic phonons generated from carriers photoexcited within the SL. This mode provides an alternative method for determining the SL period. The period of the slow mode depends on the wavelength of the probe pulse and can be understood as a propagating coherent phonon wavepacket modulating the reflectivity of the probe pulse as it travels from the surface into the sample.
Significant protection against high-dose simian immunodeficiency virus challenge conferred by a new prime-boost vaccine regimen

We constructed vaccine vectors based on live recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and a Semliki Forest virus (SFV) replicon (SFVG) that propagates through expression of the VSV glycoprotein (G). These vectors expressing simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) Gag and Env proteins were used to vaccinate rhesus macaques with a new heterologous prime-boost regimen designed to optimize induction of antibody. Six vaccinated animals and six controls were then given a high-dose mucosal challenge with the diverse SIVsmE660 quasispecies. All control animals became infected and had peak viral RNA loads of 106 to 108 copies/ml. In contrast, four of the vaccinees showed significant (P = 0.03) apparent sterilizing immunity and no detectable viral loads. Subsequent CD8+ T cell depletion confirmed the absence of SIV infection in these animals. The two other vaccinees had peak viral loads of 7 × 105 and 8 × 103 copies/ml, levels below those of all of the controls, and showed undetectable virus loads by day 42 postchallenge. The vaccine regimen induced high-titer prechallenge serum neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) to some cloned SIVsmE660 Env proteins, but antibodies able to neutralize the challenge virus swarm were not detected. The cellular immune responses induced by the vaccine were generally weak and did not correlate with protection. Although the immune correlates of protection are not yet clear, the heterologous VSV/SFVG prime-boost is clearly a potent vaccine regimen for inducing virus nAbs and protection against a heterogeneous viral swarm.
Treatment paradigms of sex offenders of children: An analysis of professional journals

The purpose of this study is to: (1) examine the types of paradigms in the professional literature on sex offenders of children between 1993 and 2002, (2) address paradigm change in the treatment models of sex offenders based on the work of Thomas Kuhn, (3) comprehensively analyze the professional journal literature available on the theories and treatments of sex offenders. These journals include: the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy (JSMT), The Journal of Sex Research (JSR), the Journal of Sex Education and Therapy (JSET), the Archives of Sexual Behavior (ASB), the Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality (CJHS), Child Abuse and Neglect (CAN), and the Journal of Interpersonal Violence (JIV). The articles chosen in this study were expected to focus on either the medical or three-pronged approach in the treatment of sex offenders: antiandrogens, psychotropic medications, and psychotherapy. However, this was not the case. The psychological paradigm remains the dominant paradigm in this professional literature, although sex research and therapy journals were more likely to have medically based theories and interventions than the abuse and neglect oriented journals. The implications of these findings are discussed.
painless, a Drosophila gene essential for nociception

We describe a paradigm for nociception in Drosophila. In response to the touch of a probe heated above 38°C, Drosophila larvae produce a stereotypical rolling behavior, unlike the response to an unheated probe. In a genetic screen for mutants defective in this noxious heat response, we identified the painless gene. Recordings from wild-type larval nerves identified neurons that initiated strong spiking above 38°C, and this activity was absent in the painless mutant. The painless mRNA encodes a protein of the transient receptor potential ion channel family. Painless is required for both thermal and mechanical nociception, but not for sensing light touch. painless is expressed in peripheral neurons that extend multiple branched dendrites beneath the larval epidermis, similar to vertebrate pain receptors. An antibody to Painless binds to localized dendritic structures that we hypothesize are involved in nociceptive signaling.