cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Obstructing Nephrolithiasis in an 84-year-old Patient With a Diaphragmatic Herniated Ureter

Diaphragmatic herniations of the ureter are a rare occurrence overall, with fewer than 10 cases reported. Obstructing nephrolithiasis in the setting of diaphragmatic ureteral herniation has sparsely been documented. Management options to consider include ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy to alleviate obstruction in herniated ureters. The abnormal path of the ureter and surrounding structures pose unique risks that require careful attention and a high level of operator skill. We present imaging of an 84-year-old woman incidentally found to have right ureteral herniation through the diaphragm with an obstructing 8 mm stone in the right proximal ureter with moderate hydronephrosis.
Cardiac Segmental Strain Analysis in Pediatric Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy.

Background Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) is characterized by prominent left ventricular trabeculations, often leading to myocardial dysfunction and death or heart transplantation. Although diagnostic echocardiographic criteria exist for LVNC, segmental speckle-tracking strain patterns have not been described in pediatric LVNC. The objectives of this study were to characterize segmental noncompaction, evaluate segmental speckle-tracking strain, and characterize peak strain values in children with LVNC with adverse clinical outcomes. Methods Echocardiographic noncompaction/compaction ratios and segmental radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain were measured retrospectively in children with LVNC (January 2000 to June 2013). Segmental strain of the cohort was compared with that in control subjects matched by age and body surface area. Results One hundred one pediatric patients with LVNC were included (median age 2.8 years; range, 0–19.4 years); 71 patients survived (benign group) and 30 patients did not survive or required heart transplantation (adverse group). The adverse group was younger at diagnosis (P = .03), with lower ejection fractions (P Conclusions Segmental radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain are decreased in pediatric patients with LVNC compared with control subjects and lowest in those with adverse compared with benign outcomes. LVNC appears to be a global disease affecting deformation in all regions, including compacted myocardial segments.
Arts and Community Well-Being

This chapter reviews a broad array of community well-being literature and then specifies the dimensions of community well-being (i.e., individual, social, and economic well-being). Also, the notion of arts and cultural impacts within community well-being dimensions is discussed from several different perspectives. Specifically, this chapter provides an overview of the general concept of community well-being. A number of arts and cultural components that influence community well-being are then discussed. Lastly, based on the literature, this chapter proposes a conceptual model of arts and community well-being which can be used to examine the relationship between arts and cultural assets and community well-being outcomes.
The History of Estrogen Therapy.

Abstract Introduction Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) has proven an effective treatment for the amelioration of symptoms of menopause. The idea that a substance was the missing factor in a woman’s body after menopause dates to the 1800s, when cow ovarian tissue was injected into German women in a successful attempt to reverse the sexual symptoms of menopause. The early 1900s saw the rise of commercialized menopause “treatments” that ranged in substance and even theoretical efficacy. The role of estrogen was first accurately described in Guinea pigs in 1917 by Dr. Papanicolaou. Aim To tell the detailed history of how estrogen was discovered and the controversy surrounding MHT. Methods A literature search was conducted using PubMed to identify relevant studies and historical documents regarding the history of estrogen therapy. Results The history of estrogen supplementation and its controversies are interesting stories and relevant to today’s ongoing investigation into hormone replacement. Conclusion The controversy of MHT remained until the first randomized trials examining MHT in the early 1990s that suggested MHT is cardioprotective in postmenopausal women, although this conclusion was contradicted in subsequent trials. In the present day, MHT is approved only for short-term use for the symptomatic treatment of menopause. Kohn GE, Rodriguez KM, Hotaling J, et al. The History of Estrogen Therapy. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:416–421.
Towards Securing Data Transfers Against Silent Data Corruption

Scientific applications generate large volumes of data that often needs to be moved between geographically distributed sites for collaboration or backup which has led to a significant increase in data transfer rates. As an increasing number of scientific applications are becoming sensitive to silent data corruption, end-to-end integrity verification has been proposed. It minimizes the likelihood of silent data corruption by comparing checksum of files at the source and the destination using secure hash algorithms such as MD5 and SHA1. In this paper, we investigate the robustness of existing end-to-end integrity verification approaches against silent data corruption and propose a Robust Integrity Verification Algorithm (RIVA) to enhance data integrity. Extensive experiments show that unlike existing solutions, RIVA is able to detect silent disk corruptions by invalidating file contents in page cache and reading them directly from disk. Since RIVA clears page cache and reads file contents directly from the disk, it incurs delay to execution time. However, by running transfer, cache invalidation, and checksum operations concurrently, RIVA is able to keep its overhead below 15% in most cases compared to the state-of-the-art solutions in exchange of increasing the robustness to silent data corruption. We also implemented dynamic transfer and checksum parallelism to overcome performance bottlenecks and observed more than 5x increase in RIVA's speed.
Microbial colonization of intravascular catheter connectors in hospitalized patients.

Background Central line–associated bloodstream infections may be due to catheter connector colonization and intraluminal migration of pathogens. We assessed the colonization of the split septum catheter connector system, and subsequently the luer lock catheter connector system. Methods This was a prospective, 2 phase, quality improvement study at a tertiary referral center. Each phase of the study was performed over 3 consecutive days in hospitalized patients receiving an active infusion; first with a split septum lever lock connector and second with a luer lock connector and alcohol port protector. The connectors were inoculated onto blood agar plates and incubated. Plates were assessed for microbial growth after 48-72 hours. Results In phase I, 98 (41.9%) of 234 split septum connectors yielded microbial growth. In phase II, 56 (23.1%) of 243 luer lock connectors yielded microbial growth. In phase II only, there was a significant increased rate of contamination in peripheral catheters compared with all other catheters, and the rate of contamination on the acute care wards was significantly higher when compared with the intensive care units. Conclusions Bacterial colonization of the lever lock system was unacceptably high among all catheter types and hospital locations. Transition to luer lock catheter connectors and alcohol port protectors decreased the colonization; however, colonization still remained substantial. Causation of colonization cannot be determined with these results.
The Impact of Substance Abuse on HIV-Mediated Neuropathogenesis in the Current ART Era

Abstract Approximately 37 million people worldwide are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). One highly significant complication of HIV infection is the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in 15–55% of people living with HIV (PLWH), that persists even in the antiretroviral therapy (ART) era. The entry of HIV into the central nervous system (CNS) occurs within 4–8 days after peripheral infection. This establishes viral reservoirs that may persist even in the presence of ART. Once in the CNS, HIV infects resident macrophages, microglia, and at low levels, astrocytes. In response to chronic infection and cell activation within the CNS, viral proteins, inflammatory mediators, and host and viral neurotoxic factors produced over extended periods of time result in neuronal injury and loss, cognitive deficits and HAND. Substance abuse is a common comorbidity in PLWH and has been shown to increase neuroinflammation and cognitive disorders. Additionally, it has been associated with poor ART adherence, and increased viral load in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), that may also contribute to increased neuroinflammation and neuronal injury. Studies have examined mechanisms that contribute to neuroinflammation and neuronal damage in PLWH, and how substances of abuse exacerbate these effects. This review will focus on how substances of abuse, with an emphasis on methamphetamine (meth), cocaine, and opioids, impact blood brain barrier (BBB) integrity and transmigration of HIV-infected and uninfected monocytes across the BBB, as well as their effects on monocytes/macrophages, microglia, and astrocytes within the CNS. We will also address how these substances of abuse may contribute to HIV-mediated neuropathogenesis in the context of suppressive ART. Additionally, we will review the effects of extracellular dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is increased in the CNS by substances of abuse, on HIV neuropathogenesis and how this may contribute to neuroinflammation, neuronal insult, and HAND in PLWH with active substance use. Lastly, we will discuss some potential therapies to limit CNS inflammation and damage in HIV-infected substance abusers.
Data compression in cosmology: A compressed likelihood for Planck data

We apply the massively optimized parameter estimation and data compression technique (MOPED) to the public Planck 2015 temperature likelihood, reducing the dimensions of the data space to one number per parameter of interest. We present CosMOPED, a lightweight and convenient compressed likelihood code implemented in python. In doing so we show that the $\ensuremath{\ell}l30$ Planck temperature likelihood can be well approximated by two Gaussian-distributed data points, which allows us to replace the map-based low-$\ensuremath{\ell}$ temperature likelihood by a simple Gaussian likelihood. We make available a python implementation of Planck's 2015 Plik_lite temperature likelihood that includes these low-$\ensuremath{\ell}$ binned temperature data (Planck-lite-py). We do not explicitly use the large-scale polarization data in CosMOPED, instead imposing a prior on the optical depth to reionization derived from these data. We show that the $\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Lambda}}\mathrm{CDM}$ parameters recovered with CosMOPED are consistent with the uncompressed likelihood to within $0.1\ensuremath{\sigma}$, and test that a 7-parameter extended model performs similarly well.
Factor XIII deficiency does not prevent FeCl3-induced carotid artery thrombus formation in mice.

Background The compositions of venous (red blood cell-rich) and arterial (platelet-rich) thrombi are mediated by distinct pathophysiologic processes; however, fibrin is a major structural component of both. The transglutaminase factor XIII (FXIII) stabilizes fibrin against mechanical and biochemical disruption and promotes red blood cell retention in contracted venous thrombi. Previous studies have shown factor XIII (FXIII) inhibition decreases whole blood clot mass and therefore, may be a therapeutic target for reducing venous thrombosis. The role of FXIII in arterial thrombogenesis is less studied, and the particular contribution of platelet FXIII remains unresolved. Objective To determine whether FXIII reduction prevents experimental arterial thrombogenesis. Methods Using wild-type mice and mice with genetically imposed deficiency in FXIII, we measured thrombus formation and stability following ferric chloride-induced arterial thrombosis. We also determined the impact of FXIII on the mass of contracted platelet-rich plasma clots. Results Following vessel injury, F13a+/+ , F13a+/- , and F13a-/- mice developed occlusive arterial thrombi. FXIII deficiency did not significantly reduce the incidence or prolong the time to occlusion. FXIII deficiency also did not alter the timing of reflow events or decrease platelet-rich clot mass. Conclusions FXIII does not significantly alter the underlying pathophysiology of experimental arterial thrombus formation.
Periods and classifications of RR Lyrae stars in the globular cluster M15

We present measurements of the periods, amplitudes, and types of 74 RR Lyrae stars in the globular cluster M15 derived from Nickel 1 m telescope observations conducted at LickObservatory in 2019 and 2020. Of these RR Lyrae stars, two were previously reported but without a determination of the period. In addition, we identify five Type II Cepheid variable stars for which we report three novel period determinations, and a further 34 stars with uncertain classifications and periods. We discuss the development and subsequent application to our data of a new Python package, Period-determination and Identification Pipeline Suite(PIPS), based on a new adaptive free-form fitting technique to detect the periods of variable stars with a clear treatment of uncertainties.
Reinforced composite masonry shear walls

The results of testing six brick-to-block reinforced composite masonry panels subjected to gravity and in-plane shear loads are dis­ cussed herein. Each wall contained two wythes with a nominal 2-inch collar joint. In the first 5 walls, this joint was grouted and rein­ forced with either welded wire fabric or vertical and horizontal bars. For the last wall, vertical bars were placed and grouted in the block openings and the collar joint was not grouted. Instead, the two wythes were connected by a horizontal truss joint reinforcement in the bed mortar. The vertical load was applied first and held constant for all walls, followed by the horizontal (in-plane) load. The loads (either vertical or horizontal) were applied as distributed loads along the top of the wall (which was free to move), with the base fixed. The wall panels were approximately 4 feet wide, 6 feet high, and 9 inches thick. One-wythe and composite prisms were built corresponding to each wall to determine the strength properties. A comparison of strength characteristics of the tested walls is discussed herein.
Sweet potato starch and a protein-based edible coating minimize the fat-uptake in deep-fat fried chicken

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a newly developed batter containing sweet potato starch and a chicken protein-based edible coating (0, 5, 10, and 15% chicke...
What the Eyes Can Tell: Analyzing Visual Attention with an Educational Video Game

3D video games show potential as educational tools that improve learner engagement. Integrating 3D games into school curricula, however, faces various challenges. One challenge is providing visualizations on learning dashboards for instructors. Such dashboards provide needed information so that instructors may conduct timely and appropriate interventions when students need it. Another challenge is identifying contributive learning predictors for a computational model, which can be the core algorithm used to make games more intelligent for tutoring and assessment purposes. Previous studies have found that students' visual-attention is a vital aspect of engagement during gameplay. However, few studies have examined whether attention visualization patterns can distinguish students from different performance groups. Complicating this research is the relatively nascent investigation into gaze metrics for learning-prediction models. In this exploratory study, we used eye-tracking data from an educational game, Mission HydroSci, to examine visual-attention pattern differences between low and high performers and how their self-reported demographics affect such patterns. Results showed different visual-attention patterns between low and high performers. Additionally, self-reported science, gaming, and navigational expertise levels were significantly correlated to several gaze metric features.
Yard tractors: Their path to zero emissions

Abstract Yard tractors (YTs) are trucks used for moving trailers and containers short distances around freight terminals and port facilities, and their diesel engines contribute significantly to nitric oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions to a port’s inventory for the cargo handling equipment (CHE) category. Over time, tougher regulations have forced the introduction of new engine and emission control technologies to reduce emissions from YTs. This paper reviews the history and emissions from a range of technologies that were introduced during the past years with the understanding that a variety of technology solutions may be used by ports worldwide to address air pollution concerns. These new technologies included: cleaner engines, new liquid and gaseous fuels (natural gas [NG] and liquified petroleum gas [LPG]), and new emission control technology. The results show how technology improvements in YT emissions control technology have led to reductions of >70% in NOx and >90% in PM in the emissions inventories for CHE at ports in Southern California.
The regional economic impact of oil and gas extraction in Texas

Abstract This paper empirically investigates the regional economic impact of oil and gas extraction in Texas during the recent shale oil boom. Regressions with county-level data over the period 2009–2014 support smaller multiplier effects on local employment and income than corresponding estimates drawn from popular input–output-based studies. Economic impacts were larger for extraction from gas wells than oil wells, while the drilling phase generated comparable impacts. Estimates of economic impacts are greater in a dynamic spatial panel model that allows for spillover effects across local economies as well as over time.
Defensive Management: Does the Sarbanes-Oxley Act Discourage Corporate Risk-Taking?

Prior studies find that foreign firms subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act ("SOX") suffered significant declines in market valuation; these declines are too large to be fully explained by the increased costs of direct compliance. This paper investigates one possible source of losses - the charge that SOX discourages corporate risk-taking. I use a triple difference methodology to estimate the effect of SOX on risk-taking by SOX-exposed foreign firms. I match each foreign cross-listed firm to a similar non-cross-listed firm from the same country based on propensity to cross-list. I measure the "pair" risk - the difference between the risk of a cross-listed firm and the risk of its match (first difference). I then estimate the after-minus-before SOX change in pair risk (second difference). Finally, I compare the after-minus-before changes in pair risk for SOX-exposed pairs (where the cross-listed company is listed on level 2 or 3 and is thus subject to SOX) to the change for SOX-unexposed pairs (where the cross-listed company is listed on level 1 or 4 and is thus not subject to SOX) (third difference). I use three sets of proxies for risk: volatility of returns, financial leverage, and cash hording. I find that the risk of SOX-exposed foreign firms declined significantly after SOX on all three measures. High-Tobin's Q firms suffered larger declines in risk. Firms that were riskier before SOX lost more of their value after SOX. This evidence is consistent with the view that SOX induced cross-listed firms to take fewer risks, and placed a particular burden on riskier and better-governed firms.
Hierarchical multi-label framework for robust face recognition

In this paper, we propose a patch based face recognition framework. First, a face image is iteratively divided into multi-level patches and assigned hierarchical labels. Second, local classifiers are built to learn the local prediction of each patch. Third, the hierarchical relationships defined between local patches are used to obtain the global prediction of each patch. We develop three ways to learn the global prediction: majority voting, l 1 -regularized weighting, and decision rule. Last, the global predictions of different levels are combined as the final prediction. Experimental results on different face recognition tasks demonstrate the effectiveness of our method.
Affinity labeling of dihydrofolate reductase with an antifolate glyoxal

Dihydrofolate reductases from different species contain several highly conserved arginines, some of which have been shown by x-ray crystallography to have their guanido groups near the p-aminobenzoyl glutamate moiety of enzyme-bound methotrexate. The orientation of one of these (Arg-52) appears to be completely reversed in comparing the crystal structures of Escherichia coli with Lactobacillus casei enzyme (Bolin, J. T., Filman, D. J., Matthews, D. A., Hamlin, R. C., and Kraut, J. (1982). J. Biol. Chem. 257, 13650-13662). We synthesized a novel antifolate containing a glyoxal group designed to react specifically with active-site guanido groups which are able to approach the p-aminobenzoyl carbonyl of methotrexate. The binding of this compound to the enzyme was competitive with dihydrofolate (DHF) in ordinary buffers. In borate buffer at pH 8.0 it inactivated dihydrofolate reductases from both E. coli and L. casei at similar maximum rates, while the chicken liver enzyme was more slowly inactivated. The inactivation was stoichiometric, paralleled the loss of the glyoxal chromophore, and showed saturation kinetics. Inhibitor binding and thus inactivation was enhanced by NADPH, while DHF protected the enzyme. This allowed calculation of the Kd for DHF which was found to be identical with its Km. The stoichiometrically inactivated enzyme displayed the 340-nm chromophore characteristic of 4-aminopteridines bound to dihydrofolate reductase confirming active-site labeling with normal orientation of the ligand. The ligand remained covalently bound to inactivated enzyme upon denaturation at low pH but dissociated at neutral pH. Computer graphic modeling of the crystal structures predicted reaction of Arg-31 but not Arg-52 in L. casei dihydrofolate reductase and of only Arg-52 in the E. coli enzyme. Purification of the CNBr fragments from the inactivated enzymes gave a single labeled peptide for each species. The particular peptide tagged in each case was unaffected by the presence of NADPH and was in excellent agreement with the crystallographic predictions.
Results from Shallow Research Drilling at Inyo Domes, Long Valley Caldera, California and the Salton Sea Geothermal Field, Salton Trough, California

A goal of the thermal regimes sector of the U.S. Continental Scientific Drilling Program is to understand the intrusion of magma into the crust, the release of heat and volatiles from these intrusions, and the development of associated hydrothermal systems. These processes result in the formation and modification of continental crust. Magmatic processes of interest include tectonic constraints on intrusions, intrusion mechanisms, cooling behavior, geochemical evolution, interaction with crustal rocks and fluids, degassing, volcanic eruption mechanisms, and coupling of the hydrothermal system to the heat source. Hydrothermal processes of interest include interaction between magma and near-surface fluids, fluid flow pathways, circulation patterns, flow rates, barriers to flow, rock/water interactions, and development of mineral deposits.
Finite element modelling of machinery vibration isolation systems

Vibration isolation of ship machinery is needed to achieve low radiated and habitable space noise levels. Shipboard isolation systems can be more difficult to design than similar systems on land due to space restrictions, weight limitations and ship motion considerations. Supporting foundation structures are often lightweight and relatively flexible and can influence the isolation system effectiveness. DREA is enhancing an in-house finite element vibration and strength analysis code VAST to facilitate the analysis of passive vibration isolation systems. The author describes the application of VAST to two problems. The first examines a simple machine decoupled from a flexible foundation structure using sixteen resilient isolators. The second considers the prediction of the natural frequencies of vibration of a helical compression spring isolator
Identification of cell membrane proteins that bind visna virus.

Abstract Visna virus infects cells of ovine origin by attaching to a cell surface receptor via its envelope glycoprotein. The identity of the visna virus receptor is not known. To identify the molecule responsible for binding the virus to target cells, virus overlay protein blot assays were used to examine the molecular weights of cell surface molecules which bind purified virus. Molecules on the surface of goat synovial membrane (GSM) cells and sheep choroid plexus (SCP) cells of approximately 15, 30, and 50 kDa bound to visna virus. The binding of visna virus to these proteins was reduced by preincubating virus with neutralizing antibodies. 125I-labeled cell membrane preparations of GSM and SCP cells were used to affinity purify these virus-binding proteins. These proteins were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and had molecular masses of 15, 30, and 50 kDa. Antibodies to the 50-kDa protein bound to the surface of both live SCP and GSM cells in immunofluorescence assays. In addition, antibodies to the 50-kDa protein blocked the binding of [35S]methionine-labeled visna virus to SCP cells in culture. Antibodies raised against the 15- and 30-kDa proteins did not block virus binding to cells. The blocking activity of antibody of the 50-kDa protein provided data that this protein is the molecule which visna virus recognizes and binds to on the surface of target cells.
Visual servoing with dynamics: control of an unmanned blimp

Image-based control of free-flying mechanical systems is addressed, with application to an indoor vision-guided blimp. A methodology is developed for incorporating the physical parameters of a mechanical system into the image plane for performing visual servoing. It is noted that under suitable conditions, namely the existence of a diffeomorphism between image features and robot pose, many tools from mechanical system control theory can be used directly when applied in the image plane. It is shown that when a suitable Jacobian map exists between pose and features, dynamics for vision-based control of aerial and underwater vehicles can easily be formulated. Experimental results show initial success at spatial tracking of simple objects.
Real-time visual analysis of microvascular blood flow for critical care

Microcirculatory monitoring plays an important role in diagnosis and treatment of critical care patients. Sidestream Dark Field (SDF) imaging devices have been used to visualize and support interpretation of the micro-vascular blood flow. However, due to subsurface scattering within the tissue that embeds the capillaries, transparency of plasma, imaging noise and lack of features, it is difficult to obtain reliable physiological data from SDF videos. Therefore, thus far microcirculatory videos have been analyzed manually with significant input from expert clinicians. In this paper, we present a framework that automates the analysis process. It includes stages of video stabilization, enhancement, and micro-vessel extraction, in order to automatically estimate statistics of the micro blood flows from SDF videos. Our method has been validated in critical care experiments conducted carefully to record the microcirculatory blood flow in test animal subjects before, during and after induced bleeding episodes, as well as to study the effect of fluid resuscitation. Our method is able to extract microcirculatory measurements that are consistent with clinical intuition and it has a potential to become a useful tool in critical care medicine.
Consomic strategies to localize genomic regions related to vascular reactivity in the Dahl salt-sensitive rat

Chromosomal substitution strains afford the opportunity to discover regions of the rat genome that contain genes related to cardiovascular traits with the long-range goal of linking these genes to ...
Angiogenesis and Direct Myocardial Revascularization

Roger J. Laham, MD, Donald S. Baim, MD, eds 357 pages. Hoboken, NJ: Humana Press; 2005. $145.00. ISBN 1–58829–153–7 “The ability to perceive or think differently is more important than the knowledge gained” — David Bohm The concept of creating networks of blood vessels through the simple infusion of growth factors has caught the imagination of physicians and lay public alike since its first description. Although the heady days of unbridled enthusiasm have now been replaced with the grim reality of the challenges, this notion nonetheless was critical in spearheading new concepts and approaches to entice the body to create blood vessel networks with the ultimate goal of improving form and function. A variety of strategies ranging from the simple direct infusion of growth factors to the expression of genes delivered via plasmids and adenoviral approaches has been tried for the treatment of myocardial and peripheral disorders with limited success. Despite these initial failures, what is remarkable about this …
Collage as Analysis Remixing in the Crisis of Doubt

In this article, the authors take up the question of what they do when they do analysis in post-qualitative research contexts. Working as a/r/tographers who see their artist/researcher/teacher practices as simultaneous and non-hierarchical, they use theory, writing, and collaging to think beyond work produced by “positivist, scientific storytellers.” Art-making within inquiry becomes a rigorous articulation process through which sense (rather than meaning) is tentatively fabricated. The article includes a three-part assemblage that conveys how the authors articulate thought through pieced fragments of data in ongoing movements of hoarding, mustering, and folding, the aim of which is not to conclude with answers but to pause, gather energy, and invite comments until questions spur them on again.
Dinitrogen silylation and cleavage with a hafnocene complex.

Silylation of a hafnocene complex containing a strongly activated dinitrogen ligand, [(η5-C5H2-1,2,4-Me3)2Hf]2(μ2,η2,η2-N2), by addition of CySiH3 resulted in N–Si and Hf–H bond formation and a compound poised for subsequent N2 cleavage. Warming the silane addition product to 75 °C triggered N–N scission, for which the requisite electrons were provided by silyl migration. Dinitrogen cleavage coupled to N–C bond formation was also accomplished by carbonylation of the silylated product, yielding an unprecedented μ-formamidide ([NC(H)O]2–) ligand. Subsequent treatment with HCl yielded free formamide, demonstrating that an important organic molecule can be synthesized from N2, CO, an organosilane, and protons.
EFFECT OF SEASONAL CHANGES IN DAYLENGTH ON HUMAN NEUROENDOCRINE FUNCTION

The circadian pacemaker imposes stereotypic patterns of daily variation on the activity of human neuroendocrine systems. In a number of cases, these patterns exhibit waveforms that are characterized b
Alkene-1,1-diboronic esters from the condensation of triborylmethide anions with ketones or aldehydes

Abstract The triborylmethide ions, [(RO)2B]3C−, from the reaction of methyllithium with the methyl ester of methanetetraboronic acid, C[B(OMe)2]4, or the pinacol ester, C(BO2C2Me4)4, condense readily with ketones, R′2CO, to form alkene-1,1-diboronic esters, R′2CC[B(OR)2]2. The reaction is a general one and tolerates other functional groups, including α-chloro, carbethoxy, and tertiary amino substituents. Acetaldehyde and benzaldehyde also undergo the condensation. The alkene-1,1-diboronic esters are potentially useful synthetic intermediates. Their reactions include conversion to carboxylic acids by hydrogen peroxide, conversion to α-bromoalkeneboronic esters by bromine, and conversion to alkenyl-1,1-dimercuric chlorides by mercuric chloride and sodium acetate.
Microdamage in bone: implications for fracture, repair, remodeling, and adaptation.

Abstract Fatigue microdamage accumulates in bone as a result of physiological loading. The damage is often manifested as microcracks, which are typically 50-100 mum long. These types of cracks develop in the interstitial bone and frequently abut osteon cement lines. In vitro experimentation has shown that an accumulation of fatigue damage reduces the material properties of bone (e.g., elastic modulus). An accumulation of fatigue damage has been implicated in the etiology of stress fractures and fragility fractures. However, bone has a remarkable ability to detect and repair fatigue microdamage. This article reviews the experimental techniques for identifying and quantifying different types of microdamage in bone, the density of in vivo microcracks at different skeletal locations, the effect of microdamage on bone material properties, the role of microdamage in bone fracture, and the biological mechanisms for the detection and repair of fatigue microdamage.
Inertially referenced instrument pointing platform with momentum compensated articulation

The characteristics of the Mariner Mark II Integrated Platform Pointing and Attitude Control System (IPPACS) microstep actuator with momentum compensation and the IPPACS optical reference tracker are examined, and the advantages of this new technology are identified. The momentum-compensated articulation acts to prevent platform articulation activity from disturbing the spacecaft. This guarantees dynamic stability, ensures a quiescent pointing environment, and decouples the design of the platform from the design of the spacecraft. A microstep actuator with harmonic drive provides platform angular step resolution to 0.5 arcsec for precision pointing of instruments. An optical reference tracker boresighted with scientific instruments guarantees accurate target-referenced closed-loop pointing. An IPPACS star and target tracker with 1 to 10 arcsec accuracy and wide 11 x 17 degrees field of view has been derived from Advanced Star and Target Reference Optical Sensor (ASTROS) CCD star tracker technology, greatly enhancing the optical referencing capabilities of future multimission interplanetary spacecraft.
Designing PXI-Based Systems for Field and Flight-Line Applications

PXI has become a mainstream test and data acquisition platform in the MIL/Aero market. Numerous programs addressing Depot and intermediate-level test requirements now use PXI as the core of the product. While the Mil/Aero market and specifically the military would prefer the use of PXI based systems for field and flight-line test applications due to its small size, weight, and cost, the question of suitability needs to be addressed. Is PXI suitable as a platform for field and flight-line applications? Can PXI be used in harsh environments? This paper addresses these issues and demonstrates how PXI can be used in harsh environments, and how commercial off the shelf (COTS) solutions can replace the once traditional solutions of custom test equipment.
Photodetachment Cross Section of the Negative Hydrogen Ion

The results of the first precise measurement of the wavelength dependence of the photodetachment cross section of the negative atomic hydrogen ion in the range from 0.4 to 1.3 mu are reported. The measurement was accomplished by improving signal-to-noise ratio in the experiment through improvement of preamplifier detection sensitivity and elimination of background signals and by developing a direct, reliable method for relative determination of light intensity in the photon beam. (W.D.M.)
The blood: bone disequilibrium. I. The active accumulation of K+ into the bone extracellular fluid.

The role of periosteal and endosteal cellular envelopes in the control of the K+ and Na+ content of embryonic chick calvaria was investigated. Data have been presented which suggest that the K+ in extracellular fluid of calvaria may be under a direct membrane control similar to the pump-leak systems hypothesized for most cells. Based on DNA and K+ analysis of cell water, volume and DNA content, the K+ in the bone extracellular fluid was calculated to account for 75% of the total K+ content of intact calvaria. The bulk of K+ is therefore extracellular and its accumulation there was found to be sensitive to the presence of ouabain, iodoacetate, CCCP, and to temperature. Losses of 70% of calvaria K+ were found one hour after addition of 250 μM ouabain. If the exposure to ouabain was brief, the K+ loss was partially reversed. The rate of42K+ uptake was found to be depressed by ouabain, decreased pH, and La2+. The total Na+ content of these calvaria was found not to vary when incubated with ouabain, iodoacetate, or CCCP.
Mass transfer and biochemical reaction in enzyme membrane reactor systems—I. Single enzyme reactions

Abstract The effective use of an enzyme as a biological catalyst for process scale conversion is greatly enhanced by immobilizing the enzyme within the matrix of a membrane whose walls are permeable to the substrate and product. The enzyme is thus stabilized for reuse, but the apparent activity is reduced compared to that obtained with the free enzyme because of transport resistances in the bulk fluid near the membrane and within the membrane itself. To account for this reduction, solutions to the differential equations describing the mass transport-kinetic models can be obtained for certain important cases. The reaction is considered to be first-order and isothermal, and to occur in one of two modes of operation: fixed-bed or batch (limited volume). Irreversible and reversible reactions and plane sheet and spherical geometries of the membrane are considered. An example of the application of these solutions to actual data obtained with a laboratory scale immobilized enzyme reactor is presented.
Atomic size, ionization energy, polarizability, asymptotic behavior, and the Slater–Zener model

Abstract We employ the Slater–Zener model to relate effective atomic radius to ionization energy: r e = na 0 I H / I ¯ v ; n is the principal quantum number of the valence shell, a0 is the Bohr radius, IH is the ionization energy of the hydrogen atom, and I ¯ v is the average valence ionization energy. Along a given row in the periodic table, these semi-empirical radii correlate linearly with theoretical Hartree–Fock radii, semi-empirical radii derived from static dipole polarizability, and empirical covalent radii. Correlation of radii column by column is not as accurate, but still respectable. The asymptotic electron density varies as exp ( - 2 2 I ¯ v r ) , which reverts to exp ( - 2 2 I 0 r ) upon invoking the frozen orbital approximation.
Identification of a novel LIM domain gene, LMCD1, and chromosomal localization in human and mouse.

A new human LIM domain gene LMCD1 was identified from RT-PCR products, and partial sequencing of two expressed sequence tag clones flanking the assembled cDNA contig revealed a 1743-bp full-length cDNA with 1098-bp open reading frame. The coding sequence of the putative protein is 57.6% identical to murine testin 1 gene (Tes1), whereas the predicted 365-amino-acid protein is 49.5% identical to the mouse Tes1 protein. The predicted LMCD1 protein contains a novel cysteine-rich domain residing in the amino-terminal region and two LIM domains with regular spacing in the carboxy-terminal region. Northern blot analysis indicated expression of the 1.7-kb transcript in many tissues, with highest abundance in skeletal muscle. Radiation hybrid mapping localized human LMCD1 to the telomeric region of chromosome 3p, and genetic mapping assigned the mouse Lmcd1 locus to the central region of chromosome 6.
High-performance and low-cost lung cancer sensor array based on self-assembled graphene

The lung cancer sensor array (LCSA) based on layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembled graphene presented in this paper is capable of detecting different lung cancer biomarkers selectively with advantages of high sensing performance and low cost due to graphene inherent properties and self assembly technique. According to the resistance change of graphene, the detection limit of LCSA is down to 0.1 pg/mL.
Experimenting in Distance Education: The African Virtual University (AVU) and the Paradox of the World Bank in Kenya--A Rejoinder.

Abstract This rejoinder is in response to criticism against the African Virtual University (AVU), an internet-based education modality, by Amutabi and Oketch [2003. Experimenting in distance education: the African Virtual University (AVU) and the Paradox of World Bank in Kenya. International Journal of Educational Development 23, 57–73]. By closely focusing on AVU “foreignness”, its equity effects, as well as questions about its sustainability, this riposte argues that the origins, developments and modus operandi of the new virtual educational system mirrors that of the state universities in Kenya. The paper concludes by arguing in favor of the theory of isomorphism as a more comprehensive analytical framework for assessing complexities of the development and role of internet-based education in developing countries.
Polyamines Accelerate Codon Recognition by Transfer RNAs on the Ribosome

The selection of aminoacyl-tRNAs by the ribosome is a fundamental step in the elongation cycle of protein synthesis. tRNA selection is a multistep process that ensures only correct aminoacyl-tRNAs are accepted while incorrect aminoacyl-tRNAs are rejected. A key step in tRNA selection is the formation of base pairs between the anticodon of the aminoacyl-tRNA and the mRNA codon in the A site, called “codon recognition”. Here, we report the development of a new, fluorescence-based, kinetic assay for monitoring codon recognition by the ribosome. Using this assay, we show that codon recognition is a second-order binding step under optimal conditions. Additionally, we show that at low Mg2+ concentrations, the polyamines spermine and spermidine stimulate codon recognition by the ribosome without a loss of fidelity. Polyamines may accelerate codon recognition by altering the structure and dynamics of the anticodon arm of the aminoacyl-tRNA.
Brooding Perfectionism: Refining the Roles of Rumination and Perfectionism in the Etiology of Depression

The current study examines the hypothesized interaction between certain dimensions of both perfectionism and rumination as diatheses for depressive symptoms. Three hundred and five participants completed measures of perfectionism, rumination, and depressive symptoms at Time 1, and then returned 4 weeks later at Time 2 to complete measures of stress and depressive symptoms. In line with our hypotheses, results indicated that individuals with high levels of certain dimensions of perfectionism (i.e., self-oriented and socially prescribed, but not other-oriented), high levels of brooding rumination (but not the reflection dimension of rumination), and high stress experienced the greatest increases in depressive symptoms over time. Moreover, results revealed that the role of self-oriented and socially prescribed perfectionism as diatheses for depression is dependent upon brooding rumination. This work has potential benefits for understanding the cognitive mechanisms that lead to depression.
High capacity carbon anode materials: Structure, hydrogen effect, and stability

The local structure of several disordered carbons, obtained from radial distribution function analysis of elastic neutron scattering data, consists of small isolated graphene fragments. The effect of residual hydrogen which presumably saturates the dangling bonds in low-temperature pyrolyzed materials was studied by inelastic neutron vibrational spectroscopy and computer modelling of lithiated polyaromatic hydrocarbons. We discuss the possibility of exploiting the high-pressure crystal phase LiC2 in primary batteries, by demonstrating that trace boron substitition greatly enhances the (meta) stability of this phase at atmospheric pressure.
Real-time predictive control for vibration suppression of aircraft with structural damage

This paper presents an investigation of a real-time predictive control technique for robust vibration suppression and disturbance rejection of aircraft with structural damage. A generalized predictive control approach with damage identification is developed for time-varying systems with damage. The real-time identified model, which is expressed as the prediction matrices, is updated from time-domain input/output data. The on-line damage detection is implemented by comparing the changes of the identified model with the changes of the analytical model due to damage. The predicted response error for the system with the identified damage is integrated into the predictive control design process for the performance of robustness and control under damage. The proposed method is demonstrated by application to the Benchmark Active Controls Technology wind-tunnel model.
A Digital Survey Fathometer&#174; Providing a Chart Display and a Digital Output

The Digital Survey Fathometer®(DSF- 600) is a portable, dual frequency recording depth sounder with a permanent chart display, digital output, and features automatic phase changing of the chart display. Operating at frequencies of 40kHz and 200kHz (frequency switch selected), the DSF-600 provides high resolution, quality bathymetric profiles in water depths to 310 fathoms. By interconnecting it with position finding equipment and a suitable digital tape recorder or data logger, depth and position data is generated in permanent digital form for precision bathymetric survey operations. The DSF-600 system is offered with several options, allowing the user to choose the combination that best meets his surveying needs.
Magnitude and Patterns of Change in Submerged Aquatic Vegetation of the Tidal Freshwater Hudson River

Three aerial photography inventories were used to examine change in submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) in the tidal freshwater Hudson River over the interval 1997 to 2007. Overall, there was about a 30 % net decline in SAV coverage although there were also many individual areas of expansion. The invasive water chestnut (Trapa natans) did not change appreciably in net cover over the interval, and there was replacement of SAV by water chestnut along with slightly fewer cases of SAV replacing the exotic. A fine-scale (100 m by 100 m quadrats) analysis showed that about 30 % of quadrats that supported vegetation changed by more than 10 % in plant cover and overall SAV was quite dynamic. SAV in the Hudson is limited by light which is in turn controlled by suspended sediment. SAV was rarely found at depths >1 m below low water, and interannual differences in clarity affected the ability of SAV beds to maintain locally supersaturated levels of dissolved oxygen. We found that location within the River channel (proximity to shore) influenced the magnitude and variability in change in SAV between census periods. The physical nature of the adjacent shoreline also affected the magnitude of change with greater declines in cover in areas next to hard-engineered shore types. SAV in the Hudson is highly dynamic, apparently quite resilient, and the control of light by suspended sediment rather than phytoplankton growth offers a contrast to eutrophication-influenced changes in other estuaries. Management and protection of SAV habitat must recognize the highly variable nature of plant cover and that absence in any particular year does not preclude future appearance of submerged plants at that location.