cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heat and mass transfer in packed bed liquid desiccant regenerators : An experimental investigation

Liquid desiccant cooling can provide control of temperature and humidity, while at the same time lowering the electrical energy requirement for air conditioning. Since the largest energy requirement associated with desiccant cooling is low temperature heat for desiccant regeneration, the regeneration process greatly influences the overall system performance. Therefore, the effects of variables such as air and desiccant flow rates, air temperature and humidity, desiccant temperature and concentration, and the area available for heat and mass transfer on the regeneration process are of great interest. Due to the complexity of the regeneration process, which involves simultaneous heat and mass transfer, theoretical modeling must be verified by experimental studies. However, a limited number of experimental studies are reported in the literature. This paper presents results from a detailed experimental investigation of the heat and mass transfer between a liquid desiccant (triethylene glycol) and air in a packed bed regenerator using high liquid flow rates. To regenerate the desiccant, it is heated to temperatures readily obtainable from flat-plate solar collectors. A high performance packing that combines good heat and mass transfer characteristics with low pressure drop is used. The rate of water evaporation, as well as the effectiveness of the regeneration processmore » is assessed based on the variables listed above. Good agreement is shown to exist between the experimental findings and predictions from finite difference modeling. In addition, the findings in the present study are compared to findings previously reported in the literature. Also, the results presented here characterize the important variables that impact the system design.« less
MILRINONE PLASMA CONCENTRATIONS ACROSS A SPECTRUM OF RENAL FUNCTION IN STAGE D HEART FAILURE PATIENTS

Milrinone exhibits a sigmoidal relationship between plasma concentrations and the percent increase of cardiac index, with no additional hemodynamic benefit above 500 ng/ml. Milrinone may accumulate in renal dysfunction and increase arrhythmic risk in a concentration dependent manner. We hypothesized
X-ray induction of microsatellite instability at autosomal loci in human lymphoblastoid WTK1 cells.

Abstract Many models of carcinogenesis posit that multiple genetic events are required for a normal cell to become cancerous. As the mutation rate of a single gene is in the range of 10 −8 to 10 −5 per cell division, a central question remains, how does a single cell acquire multiple mutations? One hypothesis, originally articulated by Loeb [10] , proposed that some mutations may not be isolated events, but are associated with a mutator phenotype that leads to the occurrence of additional mutations elsewhere in the cellular genome. To test this hypothesis, we utilized a human lymphoblastoid cell line (WTK1) that is known to be hypermutable at the autosomal thymidine kinase ( TK ) locus. We isolated 139 independent clones which were selected for new TK mutations that arose either spontaneously or as the result of a single X-ray exposure of 1.5 Gy. These clones were examined for second-site alterations in several microsatellite loci scattered throughout the genome using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification followed by both denaturing gel electrophoresis and single-stranded conformational polymorphism (SSCP) analysis. Of these clones, 21 exhibited second-site mutations primarily involving loss of heterozygosity, 17 arose from irradiated cells whereas the remaining four arose from non-irradiated cells. We further examined the 17 clones which exhibited alterations specifically at the D16S265 locus; alterations at this site were associated with an enhanced frequency of mutations at other loci in the same region of chromosome 16q, but were not associated with additional mutations at other sites in the genome. Furthermore, new mutations arose in loci on 16q when these clones were propagated for 6 months in culture. Overall, these results support the hypothesis that radiation can induce a type of genetic instability which may facilitate the occurrence of multiple mutations throughout the genome in a small population of exposed cells. Furthermore, some cells may possess localized regions in the genome which are highly sensitive to the induction of instability.
Nicotine treatment produces persistent increases in amphetamine-stimulated locomotor activity in periadolescent male but not female or adult male rats

Nicotine is a popular addictive drug used among the adolescent population, and it has long been questioned whether nicotine use in adolescence may lead to the use of other psychostimulant drugs. It is not fully understood, however, how nicotine alters behavior and brain neurochemistry in the adolescent age cohort and how this may affect subsequent illicit drug use. In the current study, periadolescent and adult male and female rats were treated with nicotine for 7 days. One day or 30 days after this treatment, the effects of amphetamine on locomotor activity were studied. Sensitization to nicotine occurred in periadolescent female and adult male and female rats, but not in periadolescent male rats over the course of the 7-day treatment period. On day 8 (1 day after treatment with nicotine ended) and on day 37 (30 days after treatment with nicotine ended), nicotine-pretreated periadolescent male rats were sensitized to the locomotor-activating effects of amphetamine. The response to amphetamine of periadolescent female and adult male and female rats was unchanged at either time point after nicotine pretreatment. Thus, adolescent males are more sensitive than adults or females to the stimulant effects of amphetamine after exposure to nicotine, and this effect is long-lasting. These data suggest that nicotine use during adolescence may carry a greater risk than during adulthood and that male adolescent smokers may be particularly vulnerable to the risk of stimulant abuse.
Group theory and representation of microstructure and mechanical behavior of polycrystals

Abstract We Review the group theoretical basis of the result that the observed mechanical behavior of a material can be represented by constitutive (differential) equations which govern the evolution of state variables and that these variables are even-rank irreducible tensors. On the other hand, microscopic observations of the internal structure of a polycrystal produce functions that are defined on “curved” objects such as the unit sphere of directions or the set of distinct orientations of a cube, etc. We show, in terms of an example (the crystallite orientation distribution function for a macroscopically homogeneous polycrystal composed of grains of a cubic crystalline solid), that representations of such functions give rise to Fourier coefficients that are also irreducible tensors. The tensorial state variables will be related to these tensorial Fourier coefficients. A major problem of the mechanics of materials is to develop methods that enable one, for a given material and for a given purpose, to extract tensorial state variables and the laws for their evolution from the knowledge obtained from the studies of the microstructure and behavior of the material.
Learning Quantity Insensitive Stress Systems via Local Inference

This paper presents an unsupervised batch learner for the quantity-insensitive stress systems described in Gordon (2002). Unlike previous stress learning models, the learner presented here is neither cue based (Dresher and Kaye, 1990), nor reliant on a priori Optimality-theoretic constraints (Tesar, 1998). Instead our learner exploits a property called neighborhood-distinctness, which is shared by all of the target patterns. Some consequences of this approach include a natural explanation for the occurrence of binary and ternary rhythmic patterns, the lack of higher n-ary rhythms, and the fact that, in these systems, stress always falls within a certain window of word edges.
Unpacking the Tough Guise: Toward a Discursive Approach for Working with Men in Family Therapy

This article explores the potency of a discursive approach for better understanding the complexity of men’s masculinity within a therapeutic context. Two familiar accounts of masculinity are outlined and the limitations of these approaches for family therapy considered. The authors suggest that a social constructionist, discursive approach can lead to more productive therapeutic work with men. Toward this end, the concepts of discourse and positioning are presented. These discursive concepts make the cultural production of masculinity more visible, which provides men in family therapy more freedom to explore problems with less totalizing descriptions. In addition, it is proposed that a discursive analysis which acknowledges and honors the cultural context of masculinity invites men to resist those discourses that constrict and constrain them. Implications for practice are included.
First-line treatment with colchicine reduced recurrent pericarditis.

Source Citation Imazio M, Bobbio M, Cecchi E, et al. Colchicine as first-choice therapy for recurrent pericarditis: results of the CORE (COlchicine for REcurrent pericarditis) trial. Arch Intern Me...
QUALITATIVE SPOT TESTS FOR COMMON CONSTITUENTS IN GLASS

A procedure is outlined for routine qualitative analysis of certain common constituents of glass by means of spot tests using organic reagents according to the technique of Feigl. Sampling of the glass has been accomplished previously by using the powdered glass or by attacking the glass surface. A technique is discussed for the nondestructive testing of fabricated samples. Using this technique, a sample may be obtained by scratching the glass against a quartz plate. The method shows promise as a practical laboratory and plant tool.
Factors larger than 100 kd in post- hemorrhagic shock mesenteric lymph are toxic for endothelial cells

Abstract Background. Post-shock mesenteric lymph kills and injures endothelial cells (ECs), but neither the mechanism nor the mediators of lymph's toxic effect are known. Thus, in these studies we investigated and characterized potential factors that may be involved in lymph's toxic effect on ECs. Methods. Lymph was collected hourly from rats before shock, during the shock period, and for 6 hours post-shock and processed in several ways—including removal of cellular elements, freezing, heating, or separation by molecular weight—after which they were tested for toxicity (lactate dehydrogenase as a marker of cell injury and trypan blue as a marker of cell viability). Results. Controls consisting of medium, pre-shock lymph, and post-shock portal vein plasma had no EC toxicity. Lymph collected 1 to 3 hours post-shock resulted in the death of 90% to 95% of ECs and caused an 8- to 10-fold increase in lactate dehydrogenase release; however, this toxic effect waned by 4 hours post-shock. Endotoxin neutralization and immune cell removal did not decrease lymph cytotoxicity but complement inactivation did. By fractionating the toxic lymph samples by size, it appears that the putative EC cytotoxic mediator(s) is larger than 100,000 d. Conclusions. Mesenteric lymph collected 1 to 3 hours after hemorrhagic shock is toxic to ECs, but this effect is lost by 4- to 5-hours post-shock and is not dependent on the presence of immune cells or endotoxin but does involve complement and other putative mediators of greater than 100,000 d. (Surgery 2001;129:351-62.)
Epidemiology versus Cartesian dualism.

Abstract Modern comprehensive medicine, in order to be really accepted, must face the philosophical question of the mind-body problem. An example of a psychogenic epidemic shows the implicit value judgements which professionals as well as laymen make about somatic and mental disease. The obstacles to a comprehensive point of view are ingrained language and thought habits as well as personality characteristics. Research directed toward understanding personality and personal philosophy will aid in solving comprehensive medical problems as well as in understanding the issues underlying Cartesian dualism.
The Case for Industrial Dualism

I. The change from handicraft to machine, 384. — II. The intensification of capitalism, 386. — III. Strikes and the sterilization of capital, 387. — IV. Neither cooperation nor socialism possible as a remedy, 390. — V. Existing tendencies lead to capitalistic feudalism, 391. — VI. The alternative is industrial dualism, 393.— VII. Thus can democracy be maintained, capitalistic feudalism averted, 395.
d-Amino Acids Boost the Selectivity and Confer Supramolecular Hydrogels of a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

As systemically used therapeutics for treating acute or chronic pains or inflammations, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) also associate with the adverse gastrointestinal and renal effects and cardiovascular risks. Thus, it is beneficial to develop topical gels that selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) for the management of local inflammation. In this work, we demonstrate that the covalent conjugation of d-amino acids to naproxen (i.e., a NSAID) not only affords supramolecular hydrogelators for the topical gels but also unexpectedly and significantly elevates the selectivity toward COX-2 about 20× at little expense of the activity of naproxen. This work illustrates a previously unexplored approach that employs d-amino acids for the development of functional molecules that have dual or multiple roles and exceptional biostability, which offers a new class of molecular hydrogels of therapeutic agents.
Low-power Transverse Ultrasonic Treatment of Portal Vein Thrombosis in an Animal Model

PURPOSE The authors have recently developed a small-diameter, thin, flexible ultrasonic catheter device that permits the removal of thrombus by low-power transverse ultrasonic cavitation energy. In this study, the authors sought to determine whether this device could be used to eliminate portal vein thrombosis in an animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS In five anesthetized pigs, a total of six occlusions of the left portal vein were achieved with use of autologous clot with ( n = 2) or without ( n = 4) thrombin injection (250 U) introduced via a 7-F transhepatic catheter/sheath system. Angiographic examination documented complete occlusion of this vessel. The 75-cm-long, 21-gauge ultrasonic catheter (Resolution) was introduced into the clot under angiographic guidance via the transhepatic sheath. Transverse-wave ultrasonic energy was then delivered from the distal 5 cm of the probe at 3.5 W ± 10% power for up to 6 minutes. Repeat angiographic studies were performed to document patency. After the procedure, gross and histopathologic examinations were performed. RESULTS Restoration of patency of the main left portal vein was documented in all cases at angiography, with no evidence of residual clot fragments in the major branches. However, side branches demonstrated small thrombotic plugs on pathologic examination. No complications such as perforation of the vessel adjacent to the active ultrasonic tip were encountered. Virtually all thrombolysis was documented to occur within the first minute of energy application. At gross pathologic examination, there was no evidence of damage to the portal vein, and histopathologic examination demonstrated minimal intimal disruption without damage to the media. CONCLUSIONS This preliminary animal study suggests the feasibility of a percutaneous transhepatic approach to the treatment of portal vein thrombosis with use of low-power ultrasonic cavitation energy. With further study, this method may have potential for the treatment of thrombotic disease, thereby offering novel therapy to patients with thrombotic vascular occlusions.
Membrane trafficking factors are involved in the hypotonic activation of the taurine channel in the little skate (Raja erinacea) red blood cell.

In response to volume expansion, red blood cells of the little skate (Raja erinacea) initially swell and then release small organic compounds and osmotically obligated water in what is called a regulatory volume decrease (RVD) to restore cell volume. One of the major intracellular solutes lost during this process is the non-metabolized beta amino acid taurine. This hypoosmotic-induced increase in cell taurine permeability requires the anion exchanger, skAE1. The abundance of this transporter increases on the surface plasma membrane by a process of exocytosis. The second-messenger pathways involved in exocytosis of skAE1 were investigated with the use of inhibitors which affect membrane trafficking. Hypoosmotic-stimulated taurine uptake was significantly decreased by 42% with wortmannin, a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3 kinase) inhibitor. Additional evidence for the involvement of PI3K was obtained with a second inhibitor, LY294002, which decreased the hypoosmotic-stimulated taurine uptake by 28%. The state of actin is also involved, as the actin filament depolymerizer latrunculin B decreased hypoosmotic-stimulated taurine uptake by approximately 40%. Although hypoosmotic conditions did not stimulate changes in the distribution of actin between filamentous and globular forms, latrunculin stimulated a decrease in filamentous actin and increase in globular actin in both isoosmotic and hypoosmotic conditions. Disruptors of other potential cytoskeletal factors (myosin, kinesin, dynein, and microtubules) did not affect taurine uptake. The present results suggest that the exocytosis of skAE1 stimulated by hyposmotic-induced cell volume expansion requires activation of PI3 kinase and is regulated by the state of actin filaments. J. Exp. Zool. 305A, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
3-α-Chlorimperialine: an M2-selective muscarinic receptor antagonist that penetrates into brain

Abstract Muscarinic M 2 receptors have been found to be severely depleted in post-mortem brains of Alzheimer's patients. This loss of receptor may represent a useful diagnostic marker, if it could be quantitatively imaged with single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. In order to develop a radioligand with selectivity for muscarinic M 2 receptors, we now report that 3-α-chlorimperialine is a potent M 2 receptor antagonist with a K i of 0.32 nM at M 2 receptors, a 12-fold selectivity for M 2 over M 1 receptors, and a 5-fold selectivity for M 2 over M 4 receptors. Furthermore, 2% of the injected dose of 3-α-chlorimperialine per gram tissue penetrates into brain within 30 min, then washes out gradually. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that 3-α-chlorimperialine is a potent M 2 -selective muscarinic antagonist that penetrates into brain and may be a useful substrate for radioiodination and subsequent imaging of brain muscarinic M 2 receptors.
Looking for Sustainability: Environmental Coalitions across the State-Society Divide

This paper compares environmental policymaking in two Brazilian cities, Rio de Janeiro and Cubat?o. It examines the formation of state society synergistic interactions in the public policymaking process and their effect on long term sustainability of social mobilization. It concludes that whereas social capital can be constructed in the context of policymaking, it is critically dependent on a concerted effort from both state and society actors to build trust in their daily interactions. The Cubat?o and Carioca River cases show that state-society synergy had little effect on the ability of the policy coalitions formed for pollution clean up to sustain themselves over time. Instead, there are indications that rather than a constraint, the flexible and informal nature of such coalitions may have been a critical factor in their ability to carry out policy successfully.
Correlation between optical properties and chemical composition of sputter-deposited germanium oxide (GeOx) films

Abstract Germanium oxide (GeOx) films were grown on (1 0 0) Si substrates by reactive Direct-Current (DC) magnetron sputter-deposition using an elemental Ge target. The effects of oxygen gas fraction, Г = O2/(Ar + O2), on the deposition rate, structure, chemical composition and optical properties of GeOx films have been investigated. The chemistry of the films exhibits an evolution from pure Ge to mixed Ge + GeO + GeO2 and then finally to GeO2 upon increasing Г from 0.00 to 1.00. Grazing incidence X-ray analysis indicates that the GeOx films grown were amorphous. The optical properties probed by spectroscopic ellipsometry indicate that the effect of Г is significant on the optical constants of the GeOx films. The measured index of refraction (n) at a wavelength (λ) of 550 nm is 4.67 for films grown without any oxygen, indicating behavior characteristic of semiconducting Ge. The transition from germanium to mixed Ge + GeO + GeO2 composition is associated with a characteristic decrease in n (λ = 550 nm) to 2.62 and occurs at Г = 0.25. Finally n drops to 1.60 for Г = 0.50–1.00, where the films become GeO2. A detailed correlation between Г, n, k and stoichiometry in DC sputtered GeOx films is presented and discussed.
Benzothiazines in organic synthesis. Synthesis of fluorescent 7-amino-2,1-benzothiazines

Fluorescent 7-amino-2,1-benzothiazines were prepared in high yields using the palladium-catalyzed reaction of 4-amino-2-chlorobenzaldehydes with a sulfoximine or the reaction of 7-fluoro-2,1-benzothiazines with amines.
Direct laparoscopic entry using a sharp and dull trocar technique

For direct laparoscopic entry using a sharp and dull trocar technique, the sharp trocar is inserted with a twisting motion under constant pressure, then replaced with a dull trocar when a slight loss of resistance is felt. A slow, gradual entry into the peritoneal cavity is accomplished by twisting the dull trocar under constant pressure. Previous major abdominal or pelvic surgery is not a contraindication to this procedure, and use of these trocars, which can be resterilized for every use, may reduce surgical costs by decreasing the need for disposable trocars. This technique has been used in 1655 patients without complication or failure.
Optimal multicompartmental sampling designs for parameter estimation: Practical aspects of the identification problem

Abstract A computer program is described for the determination of optimal multicompartmental sampling designs as a handle on numerical identifiability. A design measure approach is used which automatically chooses the number of sample times and sites of sampling. A two-input four-pool output example is presented.
A Base-Excitation Approach to Polynomial Chaos-Based Estimation of Sprung Mass for Off-Road Vehicles

This paper presents a novel method for identifying in real-time the sprung mass of a 2-DOF quarter-car suspension model. It does so by uniquely combining the base-excitation concept with polynomial chaos estimation. This unique combination of the two methods provides two important benefits. First, the base-excitation concept makes it possible to estimate the sprung mass without explicitly measuring or knowing the terrain profile prior to estimation. Second, the polynomial chaos estimation strategy makes it possible to perform such mass estimation using sprung and unsprung acceleration measurements without pseudo-integration filters that can be difficult to tune. This paper derives the proposed method in detail and presents computer simulations to evaluate its convergence speed and accuracy. The simulation results consistently converge to within 10% of the true mass value typically within 120 seconds.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Renormalized eddy viscosity and Kolmogorov's constant in forced Navier-Stokes turbulence.

The free-decay renormalization-group theory for Navier-Stokes turbulence [Zhou, Vahala, and Hossain, Phys. Rev. A 37, 2590 (1988)] is extended to the case of forced turbulence. An eddy-damping function is obtained, which is nonlocal in time and space. Using a multitime scale perturbation analysis, a time-local renormalized eddy viscosity is determined as a fixed point of an integro-difference recursion relation. It exhibits a mild cusp behavior for the particular forcing exponent that gives the Kolmogorov energy spectrum, similar to that for free-decaying turbulence. As in the free-decay theory, the triple nonlinearity in the renormalized Navier-Stokes equation is essential for the cusp to occur near the boundary between the unresolvable and resolvable scales. Unlike the \ensuremath{\epsilon}-expansion theory, however, the renormalized eddy viscosity exhibits a wave-number dependence in the supergrid scales. The standard inertial wave-number scaling of the eddy viscosity is recovered for the Kolmogorov energy spectrum. A numerical value for the Kolmogorov constant is obtained using the Yakhot-Orszag equivalence assumption ${C}_{K}$=1.44. .AE
Franchise medicine: how I avoid being a commodity in a global market.

As facial plastic surgery becomes more global, pressures for practices to become commoditized will increase. Commoditized practices are those in which price drives the quality of the product. Franchised surgical practices have also recently increased within the United States and abroad. These are always commoditized by their corporate philosophies. There are better ways to create value than to lower price to compete with a neighboring practice. By establishing a Transcendent Relationship™ of growth, both the surgeon and the patient are more satisfied with their facial plastic surgical experiences. Key tools helpful in predicting future directions for a practice, the Four Compass Points™ and the Average Best Patient™, will be introduced.
High-frequency oscillatory ventilation for acute respiratory distress syndrome in adult patients.

Introduction: High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) using an open-lung strategy has been demonstrated to improve oxygenation in neonatal and pediatric respiratory failure, without increasing barotrauma. Animal studies using small ( 7 days). A recently published randomized, controlled trial in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients (n = 148) comparing HFOV with a pressure-control ventilation strategy (Pao 2 Fio 2 ratio of ≤200 mm Hg on positive end-expiratory pressure of >10 cm H 2 O) demonstrated early ( 15 cm H 2 O). It is currently unknown whether initiating HFOV at a lower severity threshold would result in reduced ventilator-associated lung injury or mortality. Future Directions: Future studies should compare different algorithms of applying HFOV to determine the optimal techniques for achieving oxygenation and ventilation, while minimizing ventilator-associated lung injury. The potential role of adjunctive therapies used with HFOV (e.g., prone ventilation, inhaled nitric oxide, aerosolized vasodilators, liquid ventilation) will require further research.
TEM characterization of yttrium silicide layers synthesized by ion implantation

The structure of Si implanted with high doses of yttrium has been investigated by varying implantation doses and energies. As implantation doses increase into the low 1017 cm−2 range, silicide precipitates form. The precipitates are thin and long and lie parallel to {111} planes in the Si matrix. As dopant concentrations increase, the precipitates themselves become more equiaxed, aspect ratios decrease, and precipitates densities increase until the precipitates coalesce to form a continuous buried layer of yttrium silicide within the Si matrix. The layer thickness is relatively uneven. As implant doses increase to ∼ 4×1017 cm−2, the layer thicknesses become more uniform although there are still defects present. As the implant doses increase further, the precipitate bands on either side of the continuous layer decrease due to gettering of yttrium to the layer. As the energy of the implant is increased, the appearance of the sample is similar to that of the lower energy implants except that the layer is buried deeper in the Si matrix. Observations of the silicide are consistent with its having the AlB2 structure with ordered vacancies on the Si sublattice.
On the Place of Linguistic Resources in the Organization of Talk-in-Interaction: Grammar as Action in Prompting a Speaker to Elaborate

Specific parts of grammatical structure can be employed by speakers to accomplish specifiable actions in talk-in-interaction. In this article, I describe the interactional use of "parts of speech" ordinarily used by individual speakers to connect elements within single turn-constructional units. The items employed for these held-in-common grammatical practices can also be deployed as stand-alone contributions that by their very incompleteness prompt a prior speaker to add another increment to their turn. As such, this constitutes a recipient-administered practice for expanding a turn at talk. I show that this usage constitutes another (previously undescribed) form of other-initiated repair that is designed to prompt a prior speaker to add a type-specific element found missing from an otherwise completed turn.
Cardiac Troponins and Renal Failure The Evolution of a Clinical Test

In this issue of Circulation , Khan and colleagues present the results of an elegantly performed meta-analysis of the prognostic implications of elevated levels of troponin T and I among asymptomatic patients with end-stage renal disease.1 After systematically collating the results of 28 cohort studies involving 3931 patients, they noted that an elevated troponin T level identified a group of end-stage renal disease patients with high mortality risk. Although elevated troponin I was also associated with increased risk, the exact effect size was difficult to assess because of a lack of standardization of current assays. The authors noted that despite the consistent association between elevated troponin T and mortality, the effect might be overestimated because of publication bias and study heterogeneity. Nonetheless, this meta-analysis, along with the specific reports of the largest published cohort studies,2,3 provides robust evidence that troponin T elevation in the setting of end-stage renal disease is ominous. Article p 3088 The development of troponin measurement in the absence of end-stage renal disease is an excellent paradigm for the modern evolution of clinical tests. Troponin T and troponin I are both integral parts of the cardiac muscle infrastructure and play critical roles in excitation-contraction coupling.4 The diagnostic importance of troponin elevation stems from its release into the bloodstream when there is some type of damage to cardiac myocyte cell-wall integrity.5 The high sensitivity of troponin for detecting even small myocardial infarctions has led to widespread recommendations for its routine measurement for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction.6 It could be argued, though, that were elevated troponin to diagnose myocardial infarctions that were of little prognostic …
Photoelectron spectroscopy of unstable species. The PN molecule

Abstract The He(I) photoelectron spectrum of the PN molecule, produced by the vaporization of P3N5 at 1100 K, has been recorded. The assignment of the observed bands on the basis of vibrational fine structure indicates that this molecule constitutes another example of the qualitative failure of Koopmans' theorem.
Creating Exact Bezier Representations of CST Shapes

The paper presents a method of expressing CST shapes pioneered by Kulfan into stan­ dard Bezier curves and surfaces. Out of the seven standard shape classes identified by Kulfan as representable using CST curves, four of them, including airfoils, can be repre­ sented as Bezier curves exactly. For the other three, a convergent series expansion proves insufficient to achieve any practical accuracy, however these three classes are not the most commonly used of the CST classes. With the ability to express most common CST curves and surfaces as generic Bezier curves and surfaces, CST shapes can be used in CAD, solid modeling, meshing or any other geometry tool that does not explicitly support CST.
Antineoplastic agents 157. Quassia kerstingII1

Abstract The oxacanthin alkaloid components of Quassia kerstingu L. have been found to be 2-hydroxy- and ll-hydroxy-canthin-6-one (1a and 1b). Structure 1a was confirmed by results of methylation (1a → 1c + 2a) and NOE studies. A selective INEPT NMR technique was employed to support unequivocally the 11-hydroxy-canthin-6-one (1b) assignment.
An Epigenetic Trap Stabilizes Singular Olfactory Receptor Expression

The molecular mechanisms regulating olfactory receptor (OR) expression in the mammalian nose are not yet understood. Here, we identify the transient expression of histone demethylase LSD1 and the OR-dependent expression of adenylyl cyclase 3 (Adcy3) as requirements for initiation and stabilization of OR expression. As a transcriptional coactivator, LSD1 is necessary for desilencing and initiating OR transcription, but as a transcriptional corepressor, it is incompatible with maintenance of OR expression, and its downregulation is imperative for stable OR choice. Adcy3, a sensor of OR expression and a transmitter of an OR-elicited feedback, mediates the downregulation of LSD1 and promotes the differentiation of olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). This novel, three-node signaling cascade locks the epigenetic state of the chosen OR, stabilizes its singular expression, and prevents the transcriptional activation of additional OR alleles for the life of the neuron.
The Thermoelastic Behavior of Thrust Washer Bearings Considering Boundary Lubrication and Asperity Contact

The behavior and life of a tilted flat thrust washer bearing is modeled by a comprehensive numerical code. The goal is to investigate the conditions that distress thrust washer bearings through numerical techniques. This work includes thermo-mechanical deformations (which have been neglected in previous studies). The thrust washer bearing supports non-axisymmetric loads within the planetary gear sets of automatic transmissions and consists of flat-faced washers placed between an idle helical gear and its contacting face. Various coupled numerical schemes model sliding friction, boundary lubrication, asperity contact, thermo-mechanical deformation, thermo-viscous effects, and full film lubrication. The model provides predictions of frictional torque, bearing temperature, hydrodynamic lift and other indicators of bearing performance. The experimental and numerical results show that the bearing is very susceptible to the mechanism of thermoelastic instability (TEI). Theoretical predictions indeed predict that the washer may operate in the range of TEI.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Streamflow variability in the Southern Appalachians and atmospheric teleconnections

We have examined streamflow variability in the Southern Appalachian region of the United States for the period 1950–2009. In particular, we have analysed the monthly discharge time series at two stations along the following rivers in North Carolina: (1) Little Tennessee River (LTR) near Prentiss and (2) French Broad River in Asheville. These two gauging stations are part of the Hydro-Climatic Data Network (HCDN) system. The HCDN system was developed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to provide a long-term database for tracking changes in flow and water quality of streams and rivers, with minimal human interventions. Using continuous wavelet transform (CWT), we have identified the dominant oscillatory modes in the monthly discharge data at these two rivers, and delineated the time intervals over which these modes may persist. It is found that in addition to the annual hydrologic cycle, the monthly discharge fluctuates at interannual timescales. These interannual variations may be linked to the Pacific North American (PNA) teleconnection pattern. Knowledge of the interannual periodicities may be useful for understanding long-term streamflow variability in the Southern Appalachian region. Understanding patterns of streamflow variability may be important for water resources management operations in the surrounding area. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hormonal control of somatic cell oocyte interactions during ovarian follicle development

In the mammalian ovarian follicle, paracrine signaling between the oocyte and somatic granulosa cells is bidirectional but the structural basis and physiological regulations of communication between gametic and somatic compartments remain unknown. The present experiments were designed to test the hypothesis that follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) regulates the ability of granulosa cells to make connections with the oocyte. We show that in prepubertal unprimed mice and mice carrying a targeted deletion of the FSHbeta subunit gene, granulosa cells exhibit orientation towards the oocyte manifest by the elaboration of transzonal projections (TZPs) and "apical" centrosome positioning at sites of granulosa-zona contact. In vivo FSH treatment results in a retraction of TZPs. Coincident with TZP retraction induced by FSH are changes in oocyte transcriptional activity and meiotic competence, which suggests one means by which the oocyte-granulosa cell dialogue may be modulated during development of ovarian follicles.
Semiconductor diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in patients with glaucoma.

We used the semiconductor diode laser to perform transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in 14 patients with glaucoma. Laser settings used for this procedure were 990 milliseconds, 100-μm spot size, and 1,200 mW of power. Applications were placed 1 mm posterior to the surgical corneoscleral limbus and 1 mm defocused toward the ciliary body. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure was 34.8 ± 13 mm Hg, and the mean intraocular pressure six months after a single treatment session was 24.3 ± 18 mm Hg (P > .001, paired t -test). The mean number of glaucoma medications decreased from 2.2 preoperatively to 1.4 postoperatively. Complications included conjunctival burns and uveitis in 14 patients, and pain in one patient. These results suggested that semiconductor diode transscleral cyclophotocoagulation may be useful as a treatment to reduce the intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma.
Vaginal birth after cesarean in California.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To estimate rates at which women were offered and consented to trial of labor in California hospitals with high and low risk-adjusted cesarean delivery rates. METHODS: From 267 nonfederal acute-care hospitals in California that performed more than 678 deliveries in 1992–1993, 51 hospitals were selected in a stratified sample. Hospitals in the sample were categorized as having high, medium, and low risk-adjusted cesarean rates using a logistic regression model based on data from the California Patient Discharge Data System. We reviewed medical records of women with previous cesareans for evidence of counseling regarding trial of labor, other clinical variables, and method of delivery. Differences in proportions between the three groups of hospitals were compared. RESULTS: According to records of 369 women with previous cesareans, after excluding contraindications, 312 were potentially eligible for trial of labor. Hospitals with low risk-adjusted cesarean rates documented counseling women for trial of labor in over 99% of records reviewed, compared with 85% and 79%, respectively, of hospitals with intermediate and high rates (P CONCLUSIONS: California hospitals with high cesarean rates in 1992–1993 had markedly higher rates of repeat elective cesarean delivery without evidence of counseling regarding trial of labor. Informed patient choice is a critical element of the decision for trial of labor or elective repeat cesarean, and lack of documented counseling is cause for concern.
Evaluation of THIP in standard tests for analgesic activity: occurrence of antinociception and hyperalgesia

THIP (4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol), a structurally rigid analog of the GABA-agonist muscimol, was investigated for antinociceptive activity in a variety of preclinical tests for analgesic activity. Antinociceptive activity was observed in the mouse writhing, mouse hot plate, rat tail flick, rat inflamed paw, and monkey shock titration tests. In the mouse writhing, mouse hot plate, and rat tail jerk experiments, periods of significant hyperalgesia were noted either prior to or following the occurrence of THIP-induced antinociception. At those times when an antinociceptive effect of THIP could be demonstrated in the test systems employed in this study, a variety of unfavorable effects were noted including sedation, ataxia, myoclonic jerks, and vomiting. These side-effects of THIP first appeared near the dose that produced antinociception in 50% of the animals (ED50 value) and became progressively more intense as the dose increased. Neither the narcotic antagonist naloxone, the cholinergic antagonist atropine, nor the GABA-antagonists bicuculline or picrotoxin blocked the antinociceptive activity of THIP. The synthesis of prostaglandins was not inhibited by THIP. The antinociceptive activity of THIP is an interesting lead in the search for a novel analgesic that lacks the undesirable effects of opiates. However, the occurrence of hyperalgesia and marked side-effects at doses near the effective analgesic dose may limit THIP's therapeutic potential.
Hormone replacement therapy in children with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: where do we stand?

Objective: To characterize hormone replacement therapy in a cohort of adolescent males and females with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) with a focus on changes in management during the past 10 years.Methods: Medical records of patients followed for HH during the past 10 years were reviewed.Results: A total of 45 patients (22 female: 23 male) with HH were identified. The average age at HH diagnosis was 14.48 ± 2.02 years in females and 14.89 ± 1.64 years in males (P = .53). In females, the average age of pubertal induction was 14.53 ± 1.86 years. Conjugated equine estrogen was used in 54.5%, transdermal estradiol in 41%, and oral estradiol in 4.5%. The average duration to cycling was 1.96 ± 0.78 years. A progressive increase in the use of transdermal estradiol was noted over time, with 100% of females being started on this regimen since 2008. In males, the average age of induction was 15.22 ± 1.41 years. All were started on intramuscular testosterone cypionate at various doses. The average duration to f...
THERMOSTAT FOR LOWER TEMPERATURES

Details are given concerning the construction and operation of relatively simple thermostats which permit maintaining precise temperatures down to 0°C. (with water), or temperatures above that of the ordinary room, and in which the temperature may be quickly altered at short intervals to new levels.
Non-Lipschitz minimizers of smooth uniformly convex functionals.

We construct non-Lipschitz minimizers of smooth, uniformly convex functionals of type I(u) = ∫Ω f(Du(x))dx. Our method is based on the use of null Lagrangians.
Sonographically depicted breast clustered microcysts: is follow-up appropriate?

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to evaluate outcomes of lesions prospectively classified on breast sonography as clustered microcysts without a discrete solid component.SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Over a 4-year interval during which 1,900 consecutive breast sonography examinations were obtained at the University of Maryland, 110 examinations (5.8%) yielded 123 lesions so classified. Sonography was performed by a physician using a linear-array broadband transducer (L7.5–12 or L7–13 MHz). Follow-up of at least 24 months was available for 66 lesions, and 14-gauge core biopsy was performed on another 13 lesions. The median patient age was 48 years (range, 32–71 years), and the median lesion size was 8 mm (range, 5–30 mm).RESULTS. Of the 79 lesions with acceptable follow-up, all were depicted sonographically, 57 (72%) were seen mammographically, and four (5%) were palpable. Of the 13 lesions biopsied, five (38%) showed apocrine metaplasia; five (38%), fibrocystic changes; two (15%), cysts; and one (8%), a...
The Entner-Doudoroff pathway in Escherichia coli is induced for oxidative glucose metabolism via pyrroloquinoline quinone-dependent glucose dehydrogenase

Abstract The Entner-Doudoroff pathway was shown to be induced for oxidative glucose metabolism when Escherichia coli was provided with the periplasmic glucose dehydrogenase cofactor pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). Induction of the Entner-Doudoroff pathway by glucose plus PQQ was established both genetically and biochemically and was shown to occur in glucose transport mutants, as well as in wild-type E. coli. These data complete the body of evidence that proves the existence of a pathway for oxidative glucose metabolism in E. coli. PQQ-dependent oxidative glucose metabolism provides a metabolic branch point in the periplasm; the choices are either oxidation to gluconate followed by induction of the Entner-Doudoroff pathway or phosphotransferase-mediated transport. The oxidative glucose pathway might be important for survival of enteric bacteria in aerobic, low-phosphate, aquatic environments.
Utility of a 0.014″ pressure-sensing guidewire to assess renal artery translesional systolic pressure gradients

Renal ischemia due to renal artery stenosis (RAS) is an important cause of secondary hypertension and renal insufficiency. Several methods are available to diagnose RAS; however, the identification of clinically significant lesions remains problematic. We measured the translesional systolic pressure gradient (TSPG) with a 4 Fr catheter and a 0.014" pressure-sensing guidewire and compared these data to angiographic findings. The TSPG obtained by pressure-sensing guidewire correlated more strongly with angiographic minimal lumen diameter (r(2) = 0.801) than those obtained by 4 Fr catheter (r(2) = 0.360). The relationship of TSPG with percent stenosis was not strong, regardless of the method used (r(2) = 0.228 with pressure-sensing guidewire, 0.358 with 4 Fr catheter). Using a 0.014" pressure-sensing guidewire is effective for assessing TSPG and provides a more reliable indication of stenosis significance than use of a 4 Fr catheter.
DNA Polymerase η, the Product of the Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Gene and a Target of p53, Modulates the DNA Damage Checkpoint and p53 Activation

DNA polymerase η (PolH) is the product of the xeroderma pigmentosum variant (XPV) gene and a well-characterized Y-family DNA polymerase for translesion synthesis. Cells derived from XPV patients are unable to faithfully bypass UV photoproducts and DNA adducts and thus acquire genetic mutations. Here, we found that PolH can be up-regulated by DNA breaks induced by ionizing radiation or chemotherapeutic agents, and knockdown of PolH gives cells resistance to apoptosis induced by DNA breaks in multiple cell lines and cell types in a p53-dependent manner. To explore the underlying mechanism, we examined p53 activation upon DNA breaks and found that p53 activation is impaired in PolH knockdown cells and PolH-null primary fibroblasts. Importantly, reconstitution of PolH into PolH knockdown cells restores p53 activation. Moreover, we provide evidence that, upon DNA breaks, PolH is partially colocalized with phosphorylated ATM at γ-H2AX foci and knockdown of PolH impairs ATM to phosphorylate Chk2 and p53. However, upon DNA damage by UV, PolH knockdown cells exhibit two opposing temporal responses: at the early stage, knockdown of PolH suppresses p53 activation and gives cells resistance to UV-induced apoptosis in a p53-dependent manner; at the late stage, knockdown of PolH suppresses DNA repair, leading to sustained activation of p53 and increased susceptibility to apoptosis in both a p53-dependent and a p53-independent manner. Taken together, we found that PolH has a novel role in the DNA damage checkpoint and that a p53 target can modulate the DNA damage response and subsequently regulate p53 activation.