cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A seizure-induced gain-of-function in BK channels is associated with elevated firing activity in neocortical pyramidal neurons

A heritable gain-of-function in BK channel activity has been associated with spontaneous seizures in both rodents and humans. We find that chemoconvulsant-induced seizures induce a gain-of-function in BK channel current that is associated with abnormal, elevated network excitability. Action potential half-width, evoked firing rate, and spontaneous network activity in vitro were all altered 24 h following picrotoxin-induced seizures in layer 2/3 pyramidal cells in the neocortex of young mice (P13-P16). Action potential half-width and firing output could be normalized to control values by application of BK channel antagonists in vitro. Thus, both inherited and acquired BK channel gain-of-functions are linked to abnormal excitability. Because BK channel antagonists can reduce elevated firing activity in neocortical neurons, BK channels might serve as a new target for anticonvulsant therapy.
Continuous real-time viability assessment of kidneys based on oxygen consumption.

Abstract Background Current ex vivo quality assessment of donor kidneys is limited to vascular resistance measurements and histological analysis. New techniques for the assessment of organ quality before transplantation may further improve clinical outcomes while expanding the depleted deceased-donor pool. We propose the measurement of whole organ oxygen consumption rate (WOOCR) as a method to assess the quality of kidneys in real time before transplantation. Methods Five porcine kidneys were procured using a donation after cardiac death (DCD) model. The renal artery and renal vein were cannulated and the kidney connected to a custom-made hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) system equipped with an inline oxygenator and fiber-optic oxygen sensors. Kidneys were perfused at 8°C, and the perfusion parameters and partial oxygen pressures (pO2) were measured to calculate WOOCR. Results Without an inline oxygenator, the pO2 of the perfusion solution at the arterial inlet and venous outlet diminished to near 0 within minutes. However, once adequate oxygenation was provided, a significant pO2 difference was observed and used to calculate the WOOCR. The WOOCR was consistently measured from presumably healthy kidneys, and results suggest that it can be used to differentiate between healthy and purposely damaged organs. Conclusions Custom-made HMP systems equipped with an oxygenator and inline oxygen sensors can be applied for WOOCR measurements. We suggest that WOOCR is a promising approach for the real-time quality assessment of kidneys and other organs during preservation before transplantation.
Grain boundary chemistry and grain boundary dislocations in bulk YBa2Cu3O7-δ

We report the results of our microchemical analyses of low-Σ large-angle grain boundaries in bulk YBa2Cu3O7-δ using nanoprobe energy-dispersive-X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and electron-energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). We observed periodic variation in the concentration of Cu along the boundaries, and oxygen depletion at the boundaries. We found that the chemistry of the grain boundary is very sensitive to grain boundary dislocations (GBDs), while, in turn, the configuration of the GBDs is very sensitive to the boundary misorientation and the boundary plane normal. The strain field associated with closely spaced GBDs reduced the density of mobile holes at the boundary, which is expected to be detrimental to the superconducting properties of the boundary. The possible structural transition of the grain boundaries from an oxygen-deficient state to a fully oxygenated state near a coincidence orientation is discussed, based on the reduction of the elastic strain energy of the boundaries.
Different tradeoffs result from alternate genetic adaptations to a common environment

Fitness tradeoffs are often assumed by evolutionary theory, yet little is known about the frequency of fitness tradeoffs during stress adaptation. Even less is known about the genetic factors that confer these tradeoffs and whether alternative adaptive mutations yield contrasting tradeoff dynamics. We addressed these issues using 114 clones of Escherichia coli that were evolved independently for 2,000 generations under thermal stress (42.2 °C). For each clone, we measured their fitness relative to the ancestral clone at 37 °C and 20 °C. Tradeoffs were common at 37 °C but more prevalent at 20 °C, where 56% of clones were outperformed by the ancestor. We also characterized the upper and lower thermal boundaries of each clone. All clones shifted their upper boundary to at least 45 °C; roughly half increased their lower niche boundary concomitantly, representing a shift of thermal niche. The remaining clones expanded their thermal niche by increasing their upper limit without a commensurate increase of lower limit. We associated these niche dynamics with genotypes and confirmed associations by engineering single mutations in the rpoB gene, which encodes the beta subunit of RNA polymerase, and the rho gene, which encodes a termination factor. Single mutations in the rpoB gene exhibit antagonistic pleiotropy, with fitness tradeoffs at 18 °C and fitness benefits at 42.2 °C. In contrast, a mutation within the rho transcriptional terminator, which defines an alternative adaptive pathway from that of rpoB, had no demonstrable effect on fitness at 18 °C. This study suggests that two different genetic pathways toward high-temperature adaptation have contrasting effects with respect to thermal tradeoffs.
Proceedings of Prosthodontics 21. A national symposium on prosthodontics

Abstract As proposed by the Organizing Committee, the objectives for Prosthodontics 21 were: 1. Assess the current status of prosthodontics as a discipline and specialty of dentistry with regard to clinical practice, education, and research. 2. Encourage the exchange of ideas and stimulate thought among the assembled participants concerning pertinent socioeconomic issues facing prosthodontics. Among these are the need and demand for services, specialist-generalist relations, marketing of services, third-party support resources, dental laboratory relations, and the impact of denturism on the quality of patient care. 3. Appraise the current status of the delivery of prosthodontic services to an aging population requiring quality special care. 4. Make recommendations for future action related to proposals that evolve from discussions of clinical practice, education, and research pertaining to prosthodontics and related fields.
Gender differences in a comparison of two tested etiological models of cigarette smoking among elementary school students.

The theory of reasoned action (TRA), theory of planned behavior (TPB), and a revised TPB were evaluated using manifest variable structural equation modeling among 4th- through 6th-grade students for effectiveness in predicting lifetime cigarette use. TRA was an adequate model for female students, but not male students. TPB resulted in improved model fit over TRA for both male and female students, and a revised TPB model improved fit marginally among female students. Tests for differences across gender indicated that the relationship between intention to use and lifetime cigarette use was stronger among female compared to male students. The results indicate that the TPB is an effective model for predicting lifetime cigarette use among late elementary-school-aged children.
Identification and characterization of a locus inhibiting extrachromosomal maintenance of the Streptomyces plasmid SLP1.

We report here the existence and initial characterization of a genetic locus (imp) that inhibits maintenance of SLP1-derived plasmids as extrachromosomal replicons in a manner distinct from normal incompatibility between autonomous SLP1 replicons. Thetrans-actingimp function has been localized to a 1.8 kbEco47III restriction fragment present on integrated SLP1 elements. At least part of this DNA segment is absent from SLP1-derived plasmids. DNA sequence analysis of theimp region indicates that it contains three overlapping open reading frames (ORFs) that may constitute a polycistronic operon. The effects of insertions within theimp region indicate that uninterrupted transcription through all three ORFs is necessary forimp activity.
Linear response peculiarity of a two-dimensional Dirac electron gas at weak scattering

The conductivity of an electron gas can be alternatively calculated either from the current-current or from the density-density correlation function. Here, we compare these two frequently used formulations of the Kubo formula for the two-dimensional Dirac electron gas by direct evaluations for several special cases. Assuming the presence of weak disorder, we investigate perturbatively both formulas at and away from the Dirac point. While to zeroth order in the disorder amplitude both formulations give identical results, with some very strong assumptions though, they show significant discrepancies already in first order. At half-filling, we evaluate all second-order diagrams. Virtually none of the topologically identical diagrams yield the same corrections for both formulations. We conclude that a direct comparison of conductivities of disordered system calculated in both formulas is not possible. The density-density correlation function is preferable since it can be linked to diffusion via the Einstein relation.
Statistical reform: Evidence‐based practice, meta‐analyses, and single subject designs

Evidence-based practice approaches to interventions has come of age and promises to provide a new standard of excellence for school psychologists. This article describes several definitions of evidence-based practice and the problems associated with traditional statistical analyses that rely on rejection of the null hypothesis for the establishment of invention effectiveness. Meta-analysis as an approach to ascertain EBPs is reviewed along with the inherent difficulties associated with single subject design research such as autocorrelations. Four meta-analytic approaches are reviewed which include Percentage of Nonoverlapping Data points (PND), the Busk and Serlin: Assumption models, ITSACORR, and Hierarchical Linear Modeling (HLM). HLM is offered as the most promising approach for the analysis for single subject designs. Monte Carlo simulations are modeled with varying degrees of autocorrelations, differing numbers of data points, and simulated effects sizes to show that HLM is an acceptable approach for controlling the risk of Type I errors. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 44: 483–493, 2007.
Mercury volatilization from salt marsh sediments

[1] In situ volatilization fluxes of gaseous elemental mercury, Hg(0), were estimated for tidally exposed salt marsh sediments in the summer at the urban/industrial Secaucus High School Marsh, New Jersey Meadowlands (Secaucus, New Jersey) and in the early autumn at a regional background site in the Great Bay estuary (Tuckerton, New Jersey). Estimated daytime sediment-air mercury volatilization fluxes at the Secaucus High School Marsh ranged from −375 to +677 ng m−2 h−1 and were positive (land to air flux) in 16 out of 20 measurement events. At the Great Bay estuary, mercury fluxes measured continuously over a 48-h period ranged from −34 to +81 ng m−2 h−1 and were positive during the day and negative at night. At both sites, mercury volatilization fluxes peaked at midday, and cumulative mercury fluxes exhibited strong positive correlations with cumulative solar radiation (r2 = 0.97, p < 0.01) consistent with a light-driven mercury volatilization efficiency of about 15 ng Hg mol PAR−1 or about 0.06 ng Hg kJ−1. No significant correlations were found between mercury fluxes and wind speed, air temperature, or tide height at either site. Thus despite a tenfold difference in sediment mercury concentration, photochemistry appears to be the dominant factor controlling mercury volatilization from these salt marsh sediments. The average mercury volatilization flux estimated for the Great Bay salt marsh in this study (17 ng m−2 h−1) compares well with other micrometeorological mercury fluxes for nonpoint source contaminated salt marsh and forest soils (8–18 ng m−2 h−1) and is more than 10 times higher than the average mercury emission flux from land (∼1 ng m−2 h−1). Annual mercury emissions from salt marsh wetlands may be comparable to individual industrial emissions sources in coastal states of the eastern United States.
Computation of steady and oscillatory convection in saturated porous media

Abstract We report on computational methods and results for convection of a constant property liquid in a saturated porous medium. Flow is examined in a square domain with insulated side walls, a cold top and a hot bottom boundary. An ADI finite difference method which is fourth order in space and second order in time is compared with a method of lines code which is based on fourth order finite differences in space and a Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg fourth order ODE solver. A coordinate transformation is used with the ADI scheme in an attempt to improve resolution in the boundary layer. The accuracy of the ADI method is studied by application to steady flow at Rayleigh number R = 200. A comparison of the methods is also made for solutions at R = 400, some of which display oscillations in time. An attempt is made to study the structure of these oscillatory solutions. A nearly steady “single-cell” solution at R = 400 is also described. We find five distinct long-time solutions at R = 400, each of which is generated by a different initial condition.
The influence of block copolymer microstructure on the toughness of compatibilized polylactide/polyethylene blends

Abstract Poly( l -lactide) (PLLA) was melt blended with a set of polyethylenes (PE) in an effort to increase the impact strength of the PLLA. As compatibilizers, we prepared a series of molecularly distinct polylactide–polyethylene block copolymers. The influence of the copolymer structure on the matrix/dispersed phase interfacial adhesion was correlated with the mechanical properties of the PLLA composites. For the lowest modulus PE dispersed phase, the block copolymer that gave the strongest interfacial adhesion was necessary to achieve the most significant improvement in toughening. Whereas with the stiffest PE, the block copolymer that gave the weakest interfacial adhesion resulted in the greatest improvement in impact strength. For the intermediate stiffness PE, an intermediate degree of adhesion was necessary to obtain the largest increase in the impact properties. The impact properties of the composites were also found to be highly dependent on the dispersed phase properties.
The Pre-Professional Skills Test: How It Affects Teacher Aspirants and Predicts Performance in Teacher Preparation Programs.

In Arizona, students must pass the Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) prior to admission to a teacher preparation program. This study first summarized all Arizona PPST data from 1985 to 1989; the second phase then analyzed the effectiveness of PPST scores in predicting students' subsequent performance in teacher preparation programs. The most notable result was that in those five years, 51% of Arizona minority students failed the PPST compared to 21% of whites. The study revealed inconclusive correlations between PPST scores and three criterion measures of educational performance. This may be important because the preliminary phase showed that the PPST has blocked minority students from entering teacher preparation programs.
A design approach for a power plant feedwater control system

A design approach for a nuclear power plant feedwater control system is presented. Manual operations and high probability actuator failures are addressed by the controller modes. Boolean variables are used in the observer in modeling process structure changes, such as pumps being manually taken offline and control valves failing wide open. The observer generates estimates of unknown plant disturbances which are used in a modified feedforward control scheme. The modified feedforward control makes the design of many modes of control analytically tractable. Results from testing the controller design on a high order, detailed plant model are presented.
Identification of a novel GPI-anchored CRISP glycoprotein, MAK248, located on the posterior head and equatorial segment of cynomolgus macaque sperm.

To identify a sperm-surface component that is highly antigenic, we immunized female cynomolgus macaques with glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored sperm surface proteins that were released following treatment with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC). Five different adjuvants were used in combination with the PI-PLC-released proteins, and three of these proteins (24, 48, and 53 kDa) were shown to be potent antigens for immunization of female monkeys. The 53 kDa protein was found to be a surface coating protein and not a GPI-anchored protein. Polyclonal antibodies to the 24 kDa protein and the 48 kDa protein were produced in rabbits. The two antibodies recognized both proteins on Western blots. The same rabbit antibodies recognized 28, 18, and 10 kDa bands on a Western blot of chemically reduced PI-PLC-released proteins, suggesting that the 48 kDa protein is a dimer of the 24 kDa protein, which we refer to as MAK248. Rabbit polyclonal antibodies developed to reduced fragments of the 24 kDa protein showed that the 18 and 10 kDa bands are proteolytic peptide fragments of the 24 kDa protein. Screening of tissues from male macaques showed that MAK248 is expressed only in the epididymis. Microsequencing of two proteolytic fragments of the 18 kDa component showed 100% amino acid homology to a 233 deduced amino acid sequence previously identified in human testes genome. Antibodies to MAK248 recognized a 24 kDa protein released from human sperm exposed to PI-PLC. Antibodies to MAK248 recognized the equatorial segment and posterior head regions of capacitated cynomolgus macaque sperm. Structural analysis suggests that MAK248 is a novel CRISP protein and a member of the CAP (CRISP, Ag 5, PR-1) family of proteins. Based on amino acid sequence homology, it is possible that MAK248 functions as a protease inhibitor.
No interaction between competition and herbivory in limiting introduced Cirsium vulgare rosette growth and reproduction

Both competition and herbivory have been shown to reduce plant survival, growth, and reproduction. Much less is known about whether competition and herbivory interact in determining plant performance, especially for introduced, weedy plant species in the invaded habitat. We simultaneously evaluated both the main and interactive effects of plant neighbors and insect herbivory on rosette growth and seed reproduction in the year of flowering for Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle, spear thistle), an introduced Eurasian species, in tallgrass prairie in 2 years. Effects of insect herbivory were strong and consistent in both years, causing reduced plant growth and seed production, whereas the effects of competition with established vegetation were weak. The amount of herbivore damage inflicted on rosettes did not depend on the presence of neighbor plants. We also found no interaction between competition and herbivory on key parameters of plant growth and fitness. The results of this study contradict the hypothesis that competitive context interacts with insect herbivory in limiting the invasiveness of this introduced thistle. Further, the results provide additional, experimental evidence that high levels of herbivory on established rosettes by native insects exert significant biotic resistance to the invasiveness of C. vulgare in western tallgrass prairie.
Cropping Systems for Stretching Limited Irrigation Supplies

Declining groundwater levels in irrigated areas of the Great Plains may require a shift to limited irrigation or a return to dryland production. A field study was developed to determine the yields that could be attained in minimum till cropping systems that included winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), corn (Zea mays L.), soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] under dryland farming, and limited and full irrigation. The limited irrigation allocation was 6 in./crop/year. The experiment began in 1981 on a Cozad silt loam (fine-silty, mixed, mesic Fluventic Haplustoll) at North Platte, NE, where average annual precipitation was 19.4 in. Management practices for fertilizer, herbicide, variety selection, and pest management were modified as improved varieties, technology, and products became available [...]
Internal mammary artery grafts: the shortest route to the coronary arteries.

Abstract Inadequate length can limit the use of the internal mammary artery (IMA) for coronary revascularization. By following the shortest route from its origin to the recipient coronary artery. IMA use can be maximized. Seven cadavers were studied to determine that shortest route for the left and right IMAs. The shortest route for the left IMA to the left anterior descending coronary, diagonal, and circumflex coronary arteries was through the pericardium ( p ≤ 0.01). For the right IMA, the significantly shortest routes were across the anterior heart for the left anterior descending and diagonal arteries, through the right pericardium for the right coronary artery or posterior descending artery, and through the pericardium and transverse sinus for the circumflex artery. Thus, any coronary artery can be reached with an in situ IMA, and the route through the pericardium is markedly shorter to ipsilateral coronary arteries.
Myxopapillary ependymomas presenting in the soft tissue over the sacrococcygeal region

Seven myxopapillary ependymomas presenting in the soft tissue over the sacrococcygeal area are described. Clinically, a mass, thought to be a pilonidal cyst or sinus, was a common presenting feature. An origin from heterotopic ependymal tissue over the sacrococcygeal area best explains the location of these tumors. Histologically, the myxopapillary ependymoma has a typical papillary pattern with mucinous degeneration of the stroma beneath the covering ependymel cells. The best therapy is complete surgical excision; however, if removal is incomplete, recurrence would be expected, possibly after a long period. Irradiation therapy must be considered as palliative treatment. Myxopapillary ependymomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of soft tissue or subcutaneous tumors in the sacrococcygeal area.
Stair negotiation time in community-dwelling older adults: normative values and association with functional decline.

Abstract Oh-Park M, Wang C, Verghese J. Stair negotiation time in community-dwelling older adults: normative values and association with functional decline. Objectives To establish reference values for stair ascent and descent times in community-dwelling, ambulatory older adults, and to examine their predictive validity for functional decline. Design Longitudinal cohort study. Mean follow-up time was 1.8 years (maximum, 3.2y; total, 857.9 person-years). Setting Community sample. Participants Adults 70 years and older (N=513; mean age, 80.8±5.1y) without disability or dementia. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Time to ascend and descend 3 steps measured at baseline. A 14-point disability scale assessed functional status at baseline and at follow-up interviews every 2 to 3 months. Functional decline was defined as an increase in the disability score by 1 point during the follow-up period. Results The mean±SD stair ascent and descent times for 3 steps were 2.78±1.49 and 2.83±1.61 seconds, respectively. The proportion of self-reported and objective difficulty was higher with longer stair ascent and descent times ( P P =.001). Conclusions The stair ascent and descent times are simple, quick, and valid clinical measures for assessing the risk of functional decline in community-dwelling older adults including high-functioning individuals.
SCALE-6 Sensitivity/Uncertainty Methods and Covariance Data

Computational methods and data used for sensitivity and uncertainty analysis within the SCALE nuclear analysis code system are presented. The methodology used to calculate sensitivity coefficients and similarity coefficients and to perform nuclear data adjustment is discussed. A description is provided of the SCALE-6 covariance library based on ENDF/B-VII and other nuclear data evaluations, supplemented by “low-fidelity” approximate covariances.
Sensory processing sensitivity and its relation to parental bonding, anxiety, and depression

Sensory processing sensitivity is a recently proposed construct referring to a tendency to process a variety of information more strongly and deeply than others. Although some research has found links between sensory processing sensitivity and psychological difficulties, highly sensitive people may not necessarily be predisposed to negative affect, but may be more sensitive to poor parenting. Two hundred thirteen college students were given a measure of sensory processing sensitivity (the HSPS), the parental bonding scale (measuring parental care and over-protection), the trait anxiety scale, and the Beck depression inventory. Sensory processing sensitivity predicted both anxiety and depression above and beyond parental factors, indicating that it may be an independent risk factor. An interaction was found between sensory processing sensitivity and parental care when measuring depression. Highly sensitive people may be particularly sensitive to uncaring parents. Results indicate that sensory processing sensitivity may be a temperamental disposition that interacts meaningfully with environmental factors.
Differential pressure measurements in a slugging fluidized bed

Abstract Detailed information on local fluid bed behavior cannot be obtained using global instrumentation. However, dual static pressure probes (DSPP) which measure local axial differential pressures can be used to infer the presence of bubbles or slugs in a fluid bed. DSPP consist of two probe stems, one positioned vertically above the other, connected to a differential pressure transducer. Response of DSPP has been modeled and is fast enough to capture transient phenomena in a fluid bed, provided that a low-dead-volume transducer is used. DSPP with 1.27-cm, 1.9-cm, and 2.54-cm stem spacings have been used to measure slugging properties of a 13.97-cm diameter air-fluidized bed filled with 3.175-mm nylon spheres. Over 500 20-second pressure traces were digitally recorded for two distributor types, a variety of bed heights, air flow rates and probe positions. Slugging frequency was found from selected traces using the autocorrelation function, Fourier transform and power spectral density function, and was shown to decrease with bed height. Slug velocity was found using cross-correlation of signals from two DSPP, and was shown to increase with air throughput and decrease slightly with bed height.
Type II InAs/GaSb superlattice focal plane arrays for high-performance third generation infrared imaging and free-space communications

Free-space optical communications has recently been touted as a solution to the "last mile" bottleneck of high speed data networks providing highly secure, short to long range, and high bandwidth connections. However, commercial near infrared systems experience atmospheric scattering losses and scintillation effects which can adversely affect a link's uptime. By moving the operating wavelength into the mid or long wavelength infrared enhanced link uptimes and increased range can be achieved due to less susceptibility atmospheric affects. The combination of room temperature, continuous wave' high power quantum cascade lasers and high operating temperature type II superlattice photodetectors offers the benefits of mid and long wavelength infrared systems as well as practical operating conditions.
Helium flow characteristics of rewetted specimens of dried hydrated portland cement paste

Abstract In an effort to determine how and when water re-enters interlayer spaces the helium flow technique is applied to the dried hydrated portland cement system during re-exposure to water vapour. Two sets of samples at four water-cement ratios were exposed consecutively, to 11, 32, 42, 66, 84 and 100 per cent RH. After each exposure they were reconditioned to 11 per cent RH before measurements were made. Measurements were also taken following second drying. Results show that water re-enters the interlayer structure after exposure to the lowest humidity. Measurements following second drying show that rewetting regenerates the process that occurred on first drying.
Comparing an immediate cessation versus reduction approach to smokeless tobacco cessation.

Introduction: Relatively few studies have investigated pharmacological or behavioral treatment of smokeless tobacco (ST) users who do not have immediate quit plans. In this study, we compared a reduction treatment approach with an immediate cessation approach in a population of ST users who reported no immediate plans to quit.
A temperature-programmed-reduction study on alkali-promoted, carbon-supported molybdenum catalysts

Abstract The reducibility of a series of carbon-supported, molybdenum-based catalysts with or without a potassium promoter was investigated using temperature-programmed reduction (TPR). The Mo loading and the K-doping level influence the reducibility of the K-Mo/C catalysts. The TPR spectra of both Mo/C and K-promoted Mo/C catalysts generally consist of four peaks. Two of these (located around 350 and 440°C) are attributed to the reduction of octahedrally coordinated Mo [Mo(O)], and a third peak (located around 740°C) is attributed to the reduction of tetrahedrally coordinated Mo [Mo(T)]. The fourth peak (located around 850°C) is assigned to CO desorption from the decomposition of the oxidized carbon support. The distribution of the different Mo species is greatly affected by the Mo loading and the K-doping level. In the absence of the K promoter, Mo(O) species predominate at relatively low metal loadings while Mo(T) species predominate at higher loadings. The reducibility of both species, quantified by the hydrogen consumed, or the average Mo valence, decreases with increasing Mo loadings. The K/C runs indicate that K itself is not reduced, but it may modify the reducibility of other metal compounds. A small amount of K, when added to the Mo/C, increases the area of the low-temperature Mo(O) peaks at the expense of the high-temperature Mo(T) peak. Under these conditions, the Mo(T) is significantly more reduced than is the Mo(O). Larger amounts of K decrease the Mo(T) peak area and cause less reduction in both the Mo(T) and Mo(O) species. K and Mo interact in K-promoted Mo/C catalysts, with the interaction being most pronounced for molar ratios of K/Mo between 0.2 and 1.
Office of Clinical Pharmacology Science Day: A Forum to Stimulate Innovation in Clinical Pharmacology

The Office of Clinical Pharmacology (OCP) of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has hosted an office-wide event called Science Day (SD) since 1999. SD 2012 included presentations on physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, exposure-response analyses, and other research projects. SD provides a forum for showcasing clinical pharmacology (CP) research within the OCP and provides an opportunity for professional development. This article discusses the evolution of Science Day and then focuses on SD 2012 as an example platform for promotion of regulatory research.
Electron spin resonance studies of chemically and electrochemically generated C60 and (CH3)2C60 monoanions

Abstract Electron spin resonance (ESR) data on several chemically generated C 60 − salts as well as electrochemically generated (CH 3 ) 2 C 60 − are presented. The g values for a series of tetraalkylammonium, pyridinium, phosphonium and arsonium salts are independent of the identity of the cation whereas their linewidth varies from 10.0 to 53.6 G. The anion of (CH 3 ) 2 C 60 − has a g value of 2.000 and an ESR linewidth of 2.8 G, typical of a system containing a non-degenerate LUMO.
A Multiscale, Bayesian and Error-In-Variables Approach for Linear Dynamic Data Rectification

Abstract A multiscale approach to data rectification is proposed for data containing features with different time and frequency localization. Noisy data are decomposed into contributions at multiple scales and a Bayesian optimization problem is solved to rectify the wavelet coefficients at each scale. A linear dynamic model is used to constrain the optimization problem, which facilitates an error-in variables (EIV) formulation and reconciles all measured variables. Time-scale recursive algorithms are obtained by propagating the prior with temporal and scale models. The multi-scale Kalman filter is a special case of the proposed Bayesian EIV approach.
The nature of NO adsorption on chromia

Abstract The interaction of nitric oxide with chromia catalysts has been investigated. Infrared spectra are reported which suggest that NO adsorbs in two forms: a cis-N2O2 dimer and a chelating NO2 group. Two forms of surface sites have been postulated for these adsorbed species and have been confirmed by selective poisoning experiments with oxygen. Infrared observations are consistent with NO adsorption at chromium cations with either one or two coordination positions. This model has been supported by quantitative adsorption measurements.
Ferredoxin-dependent carbon assimilation in Rhodospirillum rubrum.

Evidence has been presented that a soluble fraction from R. rubrum cells contains two new primary carboxylation reactions which depend on the reducing power of ferredoxin: (a) pyruvate synthase which brings about a synthesis of pyruvate from acetyl-CoA and CO2 and (b) α-ketoglutarate synthase which brings about a synthesis of α-ketoglutarate from succinyl-CoA and CO2. The soluble fraction of R. rubrum cells contains also a series of other enzymes which, together with the ferredoxin-dependent enzymes, constitutes a reductive carboxylic acid cycle—a new cyclic pathway for CO2 assimilation that was first found in the photosynthetic bacterium, Chlorobium thiosulfatophilum.
In-situ formation of metal-ceramic microstructures by partial reduction reactions

The formation of metal-ceramic multi-phase microstructures by partial reduction of ternary or higher ceramic oxides has been experimentally investigated in the model system Fe-Mn-O and in the more practical system Al-Ni-O by changing the oxygen partial pressure at constant temperature and total pressure. In the Fe-Mn-O system the addition of impurities such as Al 2 O 3 , CaO, Cr 2 O 3 and ZrO 2 to the initial, polycrystalline oxide solid solution (Fe 1-x Mn x )O strongly influences the location of the metal precipitation during reduction. The experimental observations are discussed based on solubility limits and segregation of impurities. In the Al-Ni-O system, depending on the reduction temperature, two different morphologies of nearly pure Ni particles, equiaxed and rod-like, form within an oxide matrix. Equiaxed Ni particles (0.02 to 0.5 μm in diameter) embedded in α-Al 2 O 3 were formed at 1350°C, while rod-like Ni particles (∼5 μm in length and 0.1 μm in diameter) in a metastable «defect spinel» phase, containing much less Ni than NiAl 2 O 4 , were formed at 1100°C. Electron microscopy studies were performed for microstructural characterization, phase identification and chemical analysis
The use of fiber concentrations for ration formulation.

Dairy cattle require fibrous feedstuffs in the diet. However, defining the fiber requirements requires knowledge of many interacting components within the diet as well as how the feed is allocated and processed. To meet the demands of high producing dairy cows for energy, diets consist of large quantities of concentrates and high quality forages containing relatively low amounts of fiber. However, to maintain normal rumen function and milk fat percentage, a large portion of the fiber needs to come from forage. Current National Research Council recommendations are a minimum of 25 to 28% dietary neutral detergent fiber, 75% of which is supplied from forage. Chemical measures of fiber alone are not adequate for ration balancing; fiber varies in its effectiveness at stimulating chewing. This variation is greater when feeds contain high amounts of by-products in place of forages. The effectiveness in stimulation of chewing of fiber is variable as the particle size and retention times of indigestible and digestible fiber vary. Currently, little information exists about the fiber requirements of the cow from immediately postcalving until peak lactation. Early lactation cows are clearly more limited by physical fill than are cows in mid and late lactation. Rations based on nonforage fiber sources (>45% neutral detergent fiber on a dry matter basis) are being evaluated for early lactation cows. Information is needed to determine the variation in the amount of fermentation acids produced, chewing activity, and amount of saliva secreted as these all contribute to the physical effectiveness of fiber.
Texas/Mexico toll bridge study

A recurring need of Texas border communities is the provision of more bridge crossings over the Rio Grande. Work has also focused on developing a comprehensive international study database requiring extensive bi-national networking, including visits to federal agencies in Mexico and the U.S., and to every border city. The final products consist of a comprehensive description of the Texas-Mexico border, electronically organized in data base format, as well as recommendations about the feasibility of additional toll bridges at each sector of the Texas- Mexico border.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Statistical distribution of strength of fiber‐reinforced composite materials

The Weibull distribution is presented as a physically consistent description of strength distribution in brittle composites. Methods are developed for obtaining point and one-sided interval estimates for the parameters of the Weibull distribution. Strength data are obtained for 25 replicates of nine different sheet molded and injection molded composites, and the developed statistical methods are applied to these data. Details of the materials and processing are given. Strength results indicate that the reliability calculations using the one-sided interval estimates are uniformly conservative for all materials. In addition, it is shown that composites produced with a less automated production process show more strength variability. Machining of an injection molded composite surface appears to lower strength and increase strength variability by introducing flaws which act as fracture initiation sites.
The Association Between Maternal Depression During Pregnancy and Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study of PRAMS Participants

Women of reproductive age are at higher risk for depression than men; and depressive behaviors and endocrine imbalances could lead to adverse birth outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether maternal depression during pregnancy affected adverse birth outcomes, specifically preterm birth and small for gestational age (SGA). This study included 4123 women who participated in the 2009-2011 Utah Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, an ongoing surveillance project that investigates maternal behaviors in women who have recently had a live birth. Women self-reported information on depression and outcome data were obtained from birth certificates. Logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Women who self-reported a diagnosis of depression during pregnancy had statistically significant increased odds of preterm birth as compared to women who had not been diagnosed with depression (OR 1.51; 95% CI 1.07, 2.12); there was no association between depression and SGA (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.63, 1.34). After adjustment for prenatal care visits, the depression-preterm birth association was attenuated and no longer statistically significant (OR 1.29; 95% CI 0.90, 1.85). After adjustment for smoking, there continued to be no strong association between depression and SGA (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.54, 1.20). The findings of this study do not support a maternal depression-adverse birth outcomes relationship among a predominantly healthy population of non-Hispanic White, well educated women. Future studies should focus on other diverse populations of women to determine if there is an association for these subgroups.
Peptides derived from high oleic acid soybean meals inhibit colon, liver and lung cancer cell growth

Abstract Soybean meal, a co-product after oil extraction from seeds, is rich in protein. Our objective was to utilize this co-product, obtain gastrointestinal (GI) resistant peptides from the isolated protein, and test for bioactivity against colon, liver and lung cancer cell lines. N98-4445A, S03-543CR high oleic acid soybean lines, and R95-1705 high protein soybean line were used for this study. Protein isolates were prepared at alkaline pH and hydrolyzed using alcalase enzyme to generate peptide hydrolysates. After determining gastrointestinal resistance of the peptide hydrolysates they were fractionated into definite molecular sizes of
Thrombospondin-1 induces tyrosine phosphorylation of adherens junction proteins and regulates an endothelial paracellular pathway.

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP) induces endothelial cell (EC) actin reorganization and focal adhesion disassembly and influences multiple EC functions. To determine whether TSP might regulate EC–EC interactions, we studied the effect of exogenous TSP on the movement of albumin across postconfluent EC monolayers. TSP increased transendothelial albumin flux in a dose-dependent manner at concentrations ≥1 μg/ml (2.2 nM). Increases in albumin flux were observed as early as 1 h after exposure to 30 μg/ml (71 nM) TSP. Inhibition of tyrosine kinases with herbimycin A or genistein protected against the TSP-induced barrier dysfunction by >80% and >50%, respectively. TSP-exposed monolayers exhibited actin reorganization and intercellular gap formation, whereas pretreatment with herbimycin A protected against this effect. Increased staining of phosphotyrosine-containing proteins was observed in plaque-like structures and at the intercellular boundaries of TSP-treated cells. In the presence of protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibition, TSP induced dose- and time-dependent increments in levels of phosphotyrosine-containing proteins; these TSP dose and time requirements were compatible with those defined for EC barrier dysfunction. Phosphoproteins that were identified include the adherens junction proteins focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, γ-catenin, and p120Cas. These combined data indicate that TSP can modulate endothelial barrier function, in part, through tyrosine phosphorylation of EC proteins.
Protected–Permissive Left-Turn Signal Control Mode: New Analytical Approach to Estimate Operational Benefit and Safety Cost

Protected-permissive left-turn (PPLT) and protected only (PO) left-turn signal control modes have been widely used at signalized intersections. The selection between these two control modes is a complicated process in which practitioners need to consider safety and operational impacts. In this study researchers developed analytical models for estimating the operational benefits and the safety risks associated with the use of the PPLT control mode. Evaluation results demonstrated that the proposed models could provide accurate and reliable estimates for the delay reduction and the potential conflicts caused by the use of the PPLT mode. Results of this study will be useful for developing quantitative criteria for the selection between the PO and PPLT modes.
ZSA-ZSA: A Self-Policed Data Handling Facility for Multiple Detector Experiments

Dual Zone Spatial Analysis (ZSA2 or ZSA-ZSA) performs spatial (position) analysis of detector data, applying techniques familiar in two-parameter pulse-height analysis. ZSA-ZSA is designed to police multiple-detector (hodoscope) nuclear experiments during initial setup and throughout data accumulation and readout. Interconnection, timing, and operational errors, equipment failure, detector misalignment, and noise pulses are detected, annunciated, localized, and tallied. Programmed test routines simulate the experiment. Data logging further assures integrity. Simultaneous studies are readily performed by steering data to different memory locations. The current version handles two 32 detector arrays plus control detectors. Capacity is limited by the 1024 word (17 bit words) ferrite core memory.
SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING UNDERGROUND PIPELINE RENEWAL OPTIONS

Trenchless technology (TT) consists of a wide range of methods to install or rehabilitate existing underground pipelines with minimal excavation of the ground. In the past, excavation was used almost exclusively to restore old and deteriorated sewers and water pipelines. However, as cities become more congested, the disruption and expense associated with excavation becomes less acceptable. The development, selection, and utilization of TT have expanded rapidly over the past 10 years. The benefits of TT are quite apparent when compared with the conventional open-cut process. However, it is necessary to evaluate the suitability and appropriateness of any rehabilitation system, trenchless or otherwise, on a project-by-project basis through consideration of all project criteria such as site conditions, geotechnical conditions, condition of existing pipeline, and design life of new pipe. This paper presents a decision support system to assist design engineers and sewer system managers in selecting the most appropriate technology for a project by systematically evaluating groups of criteria with respect to the knowledge-based preference of the user and the project-specific situation.
Upper Bound on Gauge Fermion Masses

A large class of broken supersymmetry theories is shown to imply the existence of fermions ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ and ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{0}$, lighter than or nearly degenerate with the ${W}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ and ${Z}^{0}$ gauge bosons, and with vanishing baryon and lepton number. If the ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ is appreciably lighter than the ${W}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ it can be readily produced in ${W}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ decay, as well as in ${e}^{+}\ensuremath{-}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collisions.
A complex profile of protein elongation: translating chemical energy into molecular movement

Abstract The recently solved structures of the protein elongation factor complexes, EF-Tu–GDPNP–phenylalanyl-tRNA and EF-T–Ts, complete the atomic profile of four EF-Tu conformational states. As a set, the three-dimensional structures suggest an atomic model for movement during protein elongation and, by molecular mimicry with EF-G, translocation as well.