cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Calcium channel blockers as drug repurposing candidates for gestational diabetes: Mining large scale genomic and electronic health records data to repurpose medications.

Abstract New therapeutic approaches are needed for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but must show safety and efficacy in a historically understudied population. We studied associations between electronic medical record (EMR) phenotypes and genetic variants to uncover drugs currently considered safe in pregnancy that could treat or prevent GDM. We identified 129 systemically active drugs considered safe in pregnancy targeting the proteins produced from 196 genes. We tested for associations between GDM and/or type 2 diabetes (DM2) and 306 SNPs in 130 genes represented on the Illumina Infinium Human Exome Bead Chip (DM2 was included due to shared pathophysiological features with GDM). In parallel, we tested the association between drugs and glucose tolerance during pregnancy as measured by the glucose recorded during a routine 50-g glucose tolerance test (GTT). We found an association between GDM/DM2 and the genes targeted by 11 drug classes. In the EMR analysis, 6 drug classes were associated with changes in GTT. Two classes were identified in both analyses. L-type calcium channel blocking antihypertensives (CCBs), were associated with a 3.18 mg/dL (95% CI −6.18 to −0.18) decrease in glucose during GTT, and serotonin receptor type 3 (5HT-3) antagonist antinausea medications were associated with a 3.54 mg/dL (95% CI 1.86–5.23) increase in glucose during GTT. CCBs were identified as a class of drugs considered safe in pregnancy could have efficacy in treating or preventing GDM. 5HT-3 antagonists may be associated with worse glucose tolerance.
Threshold Progressions in a Variety of Covering and Packing Contexts

Using standard methods (due to Janson, Stein-Chen, and Talagrand) from probabilistic combinatorics, we explore the following general theme: As one progresses from each member of a family of objects ${\cal A}$ being "covered" by at most one object in a random collection ${\cal C}$, to being covered at most $\lambda$ times, to being covered at least once, to being covered at least $\lambda$ times, a hierarchy of thresholds emerge. We will then see how such results vary according to the context, and level of dependence introduced. Examples will be from extremal set theory, combinatorics, and additive number theory.
21-P: DETECTION OF DSA BY SPA AND ITS RELEVANCE TO CDC CROSS-MATCHING

Aim The aim of this study was to establish whether the presence of DSA detected by Luminex based solid-phase assay (SPA) correlates with the cross-match results performed by complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) in deceased donor kidney transplantation. Methods Between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2012, lymphocytes from a total of 398 deceased donors were cross-matched by our laboratory. For each donor, sera from an average of 6.24 patients were selected for direct cross-matching by CDC, amounting to a total of 2,485 cross-matches. Pre-transplant sera were screened by CDC on HLA reference panel, and by LABScreen using HLA class I and class II antigen coated beads. Results Of the 2,485 patients cross-matched, 870 had DSA and should have been excluded as potential transplant recipients on this basis. However, 39.3% (342/870) of the DSA positive population showed no cytotoxic antibodies to the putative donor reflecting the non-Complement fixing nature of the antibodies detected by SPA and/or their low affinity for their target antigen. Since 60.7% (528/870) of patients with DSA showed positive CDC cross-matches, there was still a highly significant correlation (P Conclusions In this study, we have shown that 39.3% of patients with DSA would have been denied the transplant if it was solely based on the virtual cross-match result. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference between graft function at one year in patients with or without DSA.
Parallelism in AI programs

A folk theorem is developing which suggests that parallel solution of AI programs will not afford a speedup of more than one order of magnitude. We critically review this folk theorem by analyzing some of the problems used to "prove" it, and then cite work that provide examples of better than one order of magnitude improvement for these problems. We examine two representative AI algorithms where parallelism would achieve speedups of two orders of magnitude with a reasonable number of processors.
Biology and ecology of Corynebacterium sepedonicum

Recent studies on the ecology and biology ofC. sepedonicurn have altered our perception of BRR. As additional research contributions broaden our knowledge base, this perception will continue to change. Disease eradication is not easy under ideal circumstances and an incomplete description of the organism and the ecological niche it occupies only makes the task more difficult. It is imperative that we continue to explore the ecology and biology of BRR and to share the fruits of those explorations. Realistic cost-benefit assessments for BRR eradication will be no better than the information utilized in making those assessments.
Improving Evaluation in Counselor Training and Credentialing through Standardized Simulations

Professional competence may be conceptualized in terms of three broad domains (Klemp, 1979; Loganbill, Hardy, and Delworth, 1982). The knowledge domain is comprised of “what one knows,” whereas the skill domain is comprised of “what one can do.” Finally, the affective domain is comprised of a variety of personal characteristics, including attitudes, values, beliefs, self-schema, and motives that influence professional behavior (Klemp, 1979; Scofield, Terzella, Berven, and Thomas, 1983). The three domains interact in complex ways, along with situational variables, to determine the actual performance of professionals in clinical situations.
Extrahepatic PPARα modulates fatty acid oxidation and attenuates fasting-induced hepatosteatosis in mice.

PPARα (PPARA), expressed in most oxidative tissues, is a major regulator of lipid homeostasis; hepatic PPARA plays a critical role during the adaptive fasting response by promoting FA oxidation (FAO). To clarify whether extrahepatic PPARA activity can protect against lipid overload when hepatic PPARA is impaired, lipid accumulation was compared in WT (Ppara+/+), total body Ppara-null (Ppara−/−), and hepatocyte-specific Ppara-null (PparaΔHep) mice that were fasted for 24 h. Histologic staining indicated reduced lipid accumulation in PparaΔHep versus Ppara−/− mice, and biochemical analyses revealed diminished medium- and long-chain FA accumulation in PparaΔHep mouse livers. Hepatic PPARA target genes were suppressed in both mouse models. Serum FFAs increased in all genotypes after fasting but were highest in Ppara−/− mice. In PparaΔHep mice, FAO genes were increased in brown adipose tissue, heart, and muscle, and total lipase activity was elevated in the muscle and heart, suggesting increased lipid utilization. Thus, extrahepatic PPARA activity reduces systemic lipid load when hepatic lipid metabolism is impaired by elevating FAO and lipase activity in other tissues and, as a result, protects against fasting-induced hepatosteatosis. This has important clinical implications in disease states with impaired hepatic PPARA function, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Development of a Secure, Heterogeneous Cloud Robotics Infrastructure: Implementing a Mesh VPN and Robotic File System Security Practices

Robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) are enveloping our society at an exponential rate due to lessening costs and better availability of hardware and software. Additionally, Cloud Robotics and Robot Operating System (ROS) can offset onboard processing power. However, strong and fundamental security practices have not been applied to fully protect these systems., partially negating the benefits of IoT. Researchers are therefore tasked with finding ways of securing communications and systems. Since security and convenience are oftentimes at odds, securing many heterogeneous components without compromising performance can be daunting. Protecting systems from attacks and ensuring that connections and instructions are from approved devices, all while maintaining the performance is imperative. This paper focuses on the development of security best practices and a mesh framework with an open-source, multipoint-to-multipoint virtual private network (VPN) that can tie Linux, Windows, IOS., and Android devices into one secure fabric, with heterogeneous mobile robotic platforms running ROSPY in a secure cloud robotics infrastructure.
Free Gracilis Muscle Flap for Sarcoma Reconstruction: 19 Years of Clinical Experience.

Background. Sarcoma treatment necessitates high-dose chemoradiation therapy and wide surgical margins that create wounds that are difficult to reconstruct. Many techniques have been developed to cover these defects, originating with muscle flaps such as the rectus abdominis and latissimus dorsi. The gracilis flap, which is best known in contemporary practice as a microneurovascular flap for functional reconstructions, is not usually considered a robust option for reconstruction after sarcoma extirpation. Methods. We reviewed records of 22 patients (9 women) at our institution who underwent reconstructive surgery after sarcoma extirpation using gracilis flaps for soft-tissue coverage from 1998 to 2017. Neurotized gracilis flaps were excluded. The mean patient age was 51 years (range, 18–85 years), and mean length of follow-up was 53 months (range, 9–156 months). Patients had 7 tumor types, with fibrosarcomas and undifferentiated tumors being most common. There were 23 defects (mean size, 118 cm2 (range, 54–200 cm2)). Defects were located most commonly in the foot and leg ( each), upper extremity ( ), and head and neck ( ). The primary outcome was the flap success rate. Secondary outcomes were rates of major complications (unplanned reoperations, infections requiring intravenous antibiotics, and amputations); minor complications (superficial infections, partial skin-graft loss, partial flap necrosis, fluid collections treated in the office, and cosmetic reoperations); and sarcoma recurrence. Results. Twenty-one flaps (91%) survived. Six patients (27%) experienced a major complication, and 12 patients (54%) experienced a minor complication. There were 2 amputations, for a limb salvage rate of 91%. Conclusions. This series shows that the gracilis is well suited to covering large, compromised wounds across diverse anatomic features, which are the hallmark of sarcoma resections. The high rate of limb salvage and minimal donor-site morbidity further support the use of this flap as a first-line option for sarcoma reconstruction.
Riding the Waiver: In re American Express Merchants' Litigation and the Future of the Vindication of Statutory Rights

On February 1, 2012, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit held in In re American Express Merchants’ Litigation that a class action waiver was unenforceable because class litigation was the only economically feasible way for the plaintiffs to vindicate their statutory rights under the Sherman Act. In doing so, the Second Circuit properly balanced the policy underlying the Federal Arbitration Act and the policy favoring the vindication of rights provided by federal statute. This Comment argues that the Second Circuit properly interpreted the vindication of statutory rights analysis in light of U.S. Supreme Court jurisprudence.
Development and verification of the open source platform, HAM-Tools, for hygrothermal performance simulation of buildings using a stochastic approach

Building envelope design and analysis through simulation tools are areas of research and professional practice within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries that can have substantial economic outcomes. Approximately 20% of whole building capital costs are associated with building envelopes. High moisture content within building envelopes is known to promote mold and corrosion while also reducing thermal resistance. Thus, simulating envelope moisture behavior is useful in evaluating designs. To allow for future stochastic and degradation modeling this project has augmented the open source platform, HAM-Tools and verified its results by using WUFI Pro 6.1 software. HAM-Tools is a robust one-dimensional H.A.M. analysis software using MATLAB and Simulink computational environments which allows for further development and research. In this work, wind-driven rain, rain penetration, as well as heat & moisture sources in air layers have been added to HAM-Tools. The paper compares the results from HAM-Tools and WUFI for a set of common ventilated cladding scenarios. Insulation degradation (which cannot be analyzed in WUFI) is also integrated into HAM-Tools and moisture content is simulated over a 10-year period to demonstrate how the platform can be used to examine long term moisture impact. The results of the study show that HAM-Tools and WUFI can produce relatively close results for moisture content within the envelope given the same ventilated scenarios. The 10-year studies with and without insulation degradation show that there are times where there are significant differences in the moisture content predicted with and without insulation degradation.
Product Development Resource and the Scope of the Firm

Based on the adjustment-cost theory of the firm and the resource-based view, we argue that many resources contributing to successful new product development make it more attractive for firms to have wider scope. We test the predictions by looking at both actual firm behavior and production functions.
Essay #22: Rudolf Carnap on False Propositions & Specificity

The late Rudolf Carnap attempted to develop in Meaning and Necessity a purely “objective” meaning analysis, which he called the method of extension and intension. One task of the essay is to determine how Carnap understood the relationship between propositions, sentences, subjective mental entities, facts, truth, falsity and the physical world. My major criticisms are directed at Carnap’s notion of the physical interpretability of false propositions and at his further notion of specificity.
Oil and Inflation Compensation: Evidence from Treasury Inflation-Protected Security Prices

Why did the correlation between oil prices and 10-year TIPS Break-even Inflation, a measure of long-term inflation compensation, increase dramatically after the financial crisis? Using a shadow-rate no-arbitrage term structure model, we demonstrate that this is because when nominal interest rates bind at the zero lower bound (ZLB), investors doubt the effectiveness of monetary policy to control deflation. As a result, investors adjust their long-term inflation expectations more rapidly after negative oil price changes and pay higher premiums to hedge long-run deflation risks. We explain these findings by a stylized dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model including oil supply shocks, oil demand shocks, and a Taylor rule with the ZLB constraint.
Prevention of Unlicensed and Rejected ICs from Untrusted Foundry and Assembly

In Chap.10, we discussed the emergence of IP reuse and the challenges it has created with respect to IP piracy. Another recent trend is the transition of most semiconductor companies to a fabless business model. In the past, a company would have full control of their product from design to fabrication/assembly.
Intangible Assets, Information Complexity, and Analysts’ Earnings Forecasts

We examine the relation between analysts' earnings forecasts and firms' intangible assets, including technology-based intangibles, brand names, and recognized intangibles. We predict that high information complexity of intangible assets increases the difficulty for analysts to assimilate information and increases analysts' forecast error of intangibles-intensive firms. We find a positive association between analysts' forecast error and the firm's intangible intensity that deviates from the industry norm. We also find that analysts' forecast errors are greater for firms with diverse and innovative technologies. In contrast, analysts' forecast errors are smaller for biotech/pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms that are subject to intangibles-related regulation.
Witten-Helffer-Sjostrand Theory for a Generalized Morse Functions

In this paper, we extend the Witten-Helffer-Sj\"{o}strand theory from Morse functions to generalized Morse functions. In this case, the spectrum of the Witten deformed Laplacian $\Delta(t)$, for large t, can be seperated into the small eigenvalues (which tend to 0 as $t\rightarrow\infty$), large and very large eigenvalues (both of which tend to $\infty$ as $t\rightarrow\infty$). The subcomplex $\Omega_{0}^{\ast}(M,t)$ spanned by eigenforms corresponding to the small and large eigenvalues of $\Delta(t)$ is finite dimensional. Under some mild conditions, it is shown that $(\Omega_{0}^{\ast}(M,t),d(t))$ converges to a geometric complex associated to the generalized Morse function as $t\rightarrow\infty$.
Kinetics of Passive Oxidation of Hi-Nicalon-S SiC Fibers in Wet Air: Relationships between Si02 Scale Thickness, Crystallization, and Fiber Strength (Preprint)

Abstract : The strengths of Hi-NicalonTM-S SiC fibers were measured after oxidation in wet air between 700 deg and 1300 deg C. The oxidation and scale crystallization kinetics were also measured. Thicknesses of amorphous and crystalline scale were measured by TEM. Oxidation initially produces an amorphous scale that starts to crystallize to cristobalite and tridymite in 100 hours at 1000 deg C or in one hour at 1300 deg C. Crystallization kinetics for oxidation in wet air were slightly slower than those for dry air. The activation energy of 249 kJ/mol for parabolic oxidation to uncrystallized SiO2 scale in wet air was indistinguishable from that for dry air oxidation, but the pre-exponential factor was 2x higher. SiC fiber strength changes with oxidation in dry and wet air were very similar. The fiber strength increased by approximately 10% for SiO2 scale thickness up to 100 nm, and decreased for thicker scales. No significant strength degradation was observed for amorphous scales. All fibers with significantly degraded strength had crystallized or partially crystallized scales.
Adaptive Learning Systems: A Model for Business Entrepreneurs to Implement IT

Adaptive Learning Systems [ALS] have garnered tremendous attention in recent years from academia, practitioners and trade press [Jennings et al. 1998; Nwana 1996]. The numerous agent conferences and World Wide Web agent sites developed lately evidence this prevailing trend [Murch 1999; http://www.agentlink.com]. ALS are part of the agent paradigm 'invading' the research world that provides new ways of analyzing, designing and implementing complex software systems [Jennings et al. 1998]. Although varied in description, these systems are characterized by behaviors that are adaptable (by selfautomation of actions) and flexible (by learning the user's preferences, styles, and cognitive levels thereby offering proactive forms of interaction/support). ALS are usercentered, and have the potential to revolutionize the way users interact with computers, overcoming many of the limitations of current systems. A review of the literature indicates that researchers have been complaining about the lack of these systems' use as practical tools for real world problems [Bradshaw 1997; Hook 1996; Jennings et al. 1998; Maes 1994; Nwana 1996]. This dissertation agrees with these researchers and identifies a domain that can significantly benefit from this technology.
Sufficient Conditions for Zeno Behavior in Lagrangian Hybrid Systems

This paper presents easily verifiable sufficient conditions for the existence of Zeno behavior in Lagrangian hybrid systems, i.e., hybrid systems modeling mechanical systems undergoing impacts.
Superconducting magnets for mirror machines

The simple mirror configuration, consisting of a long solenoid with increased field strength at the ends (magnetic mirrors), proved to be an unstable plasma container and was replaced by the minimum absolute value of B mirror configuration. The Yin-Yang minimum absolute value of B coil was chosen for the Mirror Fusion Test Facility (MFTF) experiment and recent conceptual designs of standard mirror reactors. For the multicell field-reversed mirror reactor concept we returned to the long solenoid configuration, augmented by normal copper mirror coils and Ioffe bars placed at the first wall radius to provide a shallow magnetic well for each field-reversed plasma layer. The central cell of the tandem mirror is also a long solenoid while the end plug cells require a minimum absolute value of B configuration.
New Stx2e Monoclonal Antibodies for Immunological Detection and Distinction of Stx2 Subtypes.

Background Stx2e is a primary virulence factor in STEC strains that cause edema disease in neonatal piglets. Though Stx2a and Stx2e are similar, many antibody-based Stx detection kits are designed to detect Stx2a and do not recognize the Stx2e subtype. Methods and Findings Four monoclonal antibodies against Stx2e were developed and characterized. Two of these mAbs recognize the B subunit of Stx2e, Stx2f, and to a lesser extent, Stx2b, Stx2c, and Stx2d. The other two mAbs recognize the A subunit of Stx2e, and cross-react with all Stx2 subtypes except Stx2f. The most sensitive sandwich ELISA using these mAbs has a limit of detection for Stx2e of 11.8 pg/mL. The ability of the neutralizing antibody Stx2e-2 to block Stx2e-receptor binding in Vero cells was visualized using immunofluorescence. Combinations of these and previously developed mAbs permit ELISA-based differentiation between closely related Stx2a, Stx2c, and Stx2d (using mAbs Stx2-5/2-1, Stx2-5/2e-2, and Stx2e-3/2e-2, respectively). Conclusions The sensitive immunoassays developed in this study should augment our capacity to detect Stx2e in porcine environments and biological samples. Moreover, immunoassays that can distinguish between the closely related Stx2a, Stx2c, and Stx2d subtypes can be useful in quickly analyzing Stx subtypes in samples containing more than one strain of STEC.
Pain Intensity Moderates the Relationship Between Age and Pain Interference in Chronic Orofacial Pain Patients.

Background/Study Context: Chronic pain is associated with increased interference in daily functioning that becomes more pronounced as pain intensity increases. Based on previous research showing that older adults maintain well-being in the face of pain as well as or better than their younger counterparts, the current study examined the interaction of age and pain intensity on interference in a sample of chronic orofacial pain patients.Methods: Data were obtained from the records of 508 chronic orofacial pain patients being seen for an initial evaluation from 2008 to 2012. Collected data included age (range: 18–78) and self-reported measures of pain intensity and pain interference. Bivariate correlations and regression models were used to assess for statistical interactions.Results: Regression analyses revealed that pain intensity positively predicted pain interference (R2 = .35, B = 10.40, SE = 0.62, t(507) = 16.70, p < .001). A significant interaction supported the primary hypothesis that aging was assoc...
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Laser-Materials Interactions: General and Material-Specific Mechanisms of Material Removal and Generation of Crystal Defects

Molecular dynamics simulations of laser-materials interactions are capable of providing detailed information on the complex processes induced by the fast laser energy deposition and can help in the advancement of laser-driven applications. This chapter provides a brief overview of recent progress in the atomic- and molecular-level modeling of laser-materials interactions and presents several examples of the application of atomistic simulations for investigation of laser melting and resolidification, generation of crystal defects, photomechanical spallation, and ablation of metals and molecular targets. A particular focus of the analysis of the computational results is on revealing the general and material-specific phenomena in laser-materials interactions and on making connections to experimental observations.
A novel incubation direct injection LC/MS/MS technique for in vitro drug metabolism screening studies involving the CYP 2D6 and the CYP 3A4 isozymes.

Abstract A direct injection LC/MS/MS method involving a novel incubation technique was developed for the inhibition screening of CYP 2D6 and CYP 3A4 isoenzymes using dextromethorphan and midazolam as probe substrates. Both assays were performed using an electrospray ionization source in the positive ion mode. Direct injection was possible by using a short C 18, LC column (2 mm × 20 mm) with large particle diameter packing (10 μm). Analytical characteristics of the direct injection technique were studied by examining matrix effects, which showed suppression of the ESI signal between 0.20 and 0.65 min. The retention times for analytes were adjusted to approximately 0.8 min ( k ′ > 3), resulting in no matrix effect. Column lifetime was evaluated and determined to be approximately 160 direct injections of the matrix. The precision and accuracy of the control samples for the quantitation of dextromethorphan was between −0.53 and −12.80, and 3.73 and 6.69% respectively. Unlike conventional incubation techniques, incubations were carried out in an autosampler equipped with a heating accessory. This novel incubation method, which involved no stirring of the incubation mixture, estimated the Cl int in vitro for dextromethorphan and midazolam in human liver microsomes to be 1.65 ± 0.22 ml/(h mg) and 0.861 ml/(min mg) respectively. The autosampler tray maintained uniform temperature and was sensitive to changes in temperature between 33 and 41 °C. High-throughput screening was performed using known inhibitors of the CYP 2D6 isozyme, and the system was evaluated for its ability to differentiate between these inhibitors. The strong inhibitor quinidine resulted in a 25.6% increase in t 1/2 , the medium potency inhibitor chlorpromazine resulted in an increase of 6.14% and the weak inhibitor primaquine had no significant effect on half-life. This technique involves no sample preparation, demonstrated run times of 2 min per injection and can be fully automated. The method should therefore prove to be a valuable tool in the drug discovery process.
Late survival after valve operation in patients with left ventricular dysfunction.

Abstract Background . Left ventricular dysfunction is a predictor of hospital mortality after cardiac valve operation. We evaluated late survival in a large cohort of these patients. Methods . From 1980 to 1993, 257 patients with a preoperative ejection fraction of 0.40 or less underwent aortic (n = 177), mitral (n = 72), or combined (n = 8) valve operation, with or without concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting. Results . Hospital mortality was 12.5%. Follow-up was 98% complete. Logistic regression analysis showed that an ejection fraction of less than 0.30, mitral regurgitation, concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting, emergency operation, and reoperation were independent correlates of hospital mortality (all at p p Conclusions . The liability of left ventricular dysfunction with regard to diminished long-term survival is not completely reversed by valve operation. If operation is not performed before left ventricular dysfunction develops, postoperative medical treatment of these dilated, remodeled ventricles should be considered.
Electromyographic analysis of jaw movements

P REVIOUS ARTICLES have reported the frequency response requirements encountered in dental electromyography and have outlined a practical means of obtaining electromyograms of jaw muscle activity under optimal conditions. The influence and inadequacy of a single electrode reference on electromyograms was demonstrated and the necessity for using the multielectrode or standard generalized reference was established.l*2 The impetus of electromyography has reached beyond the determination of simple muscle function or dysfunction into the areas of orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery. The electromyographer must be cognizant of the limitations of his instrumentation, and the dental profession likewise must realize the limit of its usefulness. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the range of variability of muscular activity in jaw movements for a group of patients, (2) to determine the range of variability in a series of electromyograms of one patient, (3) to provide electromyographic data obtained with high-fidelity techniques for future reference, and (4) to provide an analysis of the role played by the external pterygoid muscles in trained (learned) jaw movements. In order to accomplish these objectives, statistical techniques were employed to analyze data derived from the electromyograms.
Forming spherical gold nanoparticles from polymorphic nanoparticles using a single laser pulse

A method is presented for using a single laser pulse to transform polymorphic polycrystalline gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) into crystalline nanospheres. Transmission electron microscope analysis of the nominally 60-nm-diameter Au NP starting material and the product suspension confirms the production of slightly smaller particles that exhibit greater crystallinity and feature reduced caliper diameter aspect ratios and anisotropy. Centrifugation followed by ultrasonic resuspension into citrate solution separates the nanospheres from the <15 nm ablation fragments, providing a route to monodisperse spherical crystalline Au NPs.
Pharmacoradiologic disimpaction of esophageal foreign bodies: Review and recommendation

The use of pharmacologic agents to relieve distal esophageal food impaction has been reported with varying degrees of success. This review defines the role of pharmacoradiologic disimpaction and outlines a radiologic strategy of examination and disimpaction. All reports using glucagon and other pharmacologic agents to relieve esophageal food impaction were reviewed, and the reasons for the variability of their results were assessed. Glucagon has a reported success rate of 37–75%. The technique of examination appears to be the most important factor in determining the success of intervention. Performed as outlined in this review, pharmacoradiologic disimpaction of a lower esophageal food bolus is a reasonable, efficient, safe, and inexpensive first line of management.
The interaction of silicic acid with iron(III) and uranyl ions in dilute aqueous solution

Abstract The interaction of iron(III) and uranyl ions with dissolved silica is studied by a spectrophotometric technique. The interaction with iron is studied as a function of the degree of polymerization of the silica. For uranyl ion, a complex with monomeric silica is inferred. An equilibrium constant pQ1 ∼ 2·0 for the equilibrium UO22+ + Si(OH)4 = UO2SiO(OH)31+ + H+ is measured.
The vitamin-like dietary supplement para-aminobenzoic acid enhances the antitumor activity of ionizing radiation.

Purpose: To determine whether para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) alters the sensitivity of tumor cells to ionizing radiation in vitro and in vivo . Methods and Materials: Cellular proliferation was assessed by WST-1 assays. The effects of PABA and radiation on tumor growth were examined with chick embryo and murine models. Real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to quantify p21 CIP1 and CDC25A levels. Results: Para-aminobenzoic acid enhanced (by 50%) the growth inhibitory activity of radiation on B16F10 cells, whereas it had no effect on melanocytes. Para-aminobenzoic acid enhanced (50–80%) the antitumor activity of radiation on B16F10 and 4T1 tumors in vivo . The combination of PABA and radiation therapy increased tumor apoptosis. Treatment of tumor cells with PABA increased expression of CDC25A and decreased levels of p21 CIP1 . Conclusions: Our findings suggest that PABA might represent a compound capable of enhancing the antitumor activity of ionizing radiation by a mechanism involving altered expression of proteins known to regulate cell cycle arrest.
Body mass index, physical activity, and mortality in women diagnosed with ovarian cancer: Results from the Women's Health Initiative☆

Abstract Background Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at late stages and consequently the 5-year survival rate is only 44%. However, there is limited knowledge of the association of modifiable lifestyle factors, such as physical activity and obesity on mortality among women diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The purpose of our study was to prospectively investigate the association of (1) measured body mass index (BMI), and (2) self-reported physical activity with ovarian cancer-specific and all-cause mortality in postmenopausal women enrolled in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI). Methods Participants were 600 women diagnosed with primary ovarian cancer subsequent to enrollment in WHI. Exposure data, including measured height and weight and reported physical activity from recreation and walking, used in this analysis were ascertained at the baseline visit for the WHI. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to examine the associations between BMI, physical activity and mortality endpoints. Results Vigorous-intensity physical activity was associated with a 26% lower risk of ovarian cancer specific-mortality (HR=0.74; 95% CI: 0.56–0.98) and a 24% lower risk of all-cause mortality (HR=0.76; 95% CI: 0.58–0.98) compared to no vigorous-intensity physical activity. BMI was not associated with mortality. Conclusions Participating in vigorous-intensity physical activity, assessed prior to ovarian cancer diagnosis, appears to be associated with a lower risk of ovarian cancer mortality.
Ribosome-membrane interactions: Characterization of ribosomal proteins from loose and tight bound ribosomes

Membrane-bound ribosomes were isolated from a post-mitochondrial supernatant fraction of mouse liver homogenate by sedimentation in a sucrose density gradient. Loose ribosomes were released from the membrane fragments with 0.5 M KCl, while tight bound ribosomes were not released. After purification of the loose and tight ribosomes subclasses, ribosomal subunit proteins were isolated and compared by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. No differences in the ribosomal protein composition was detected.
Deferring trust in fluid replication

Mobile nodes rely on external services to provide safety, sharing, and additional resources. Unfortunately, as mobile nodes move through the networking infrastructure, the costs of accessing servers change. Fluid replication allows mobile clients to create replicas where and when they are needed. Unfortunately, one must trust the nodes holding these replicas, and establishing trust in autonomously administered nodes is a difficult task. Instead, we argue that trust should be deferred. In this position paper, we present the design of Stonewall, a system that defers trust decisions through the use of two mechanisms: packages and receipts. The former ensure confidentiality and detect breaches of integrity; the latter detect breaches of non-repudiation.
Enhanced Characterization of Complex Proteomic Samples Using LC−MALDI MS/MS: Exclusion of Redundant Peptides from MS/MS Analysis in Replicate Runs

Due to the complexity of proteome samples, only a portion of peptides and thus proteins can be identified in a single LC−MS/MS analysis in current shotgun proteomics methodologies. It has been shown that replicate runs can be used to improve the comprehensiveness of the proteome analysis; however, high-intensity peptides tend to be analyzed repeatedly in different runs, thus reducing the chance of identifying low-intensity peptides. In contrast to commonly used online ESI-MS, offline MALDI decouples the separation from MS acquisition, thus allowing in-depth selection for specific precursor ions. Accordingly, we extended a strategy for offline LC−MALDI MS/MS analysis using a precursor ion exclusion list consisting of all identified peptides in preceding runs. The exclusion list eliminated redundant MS/MS acquisitions in subsequent runs, thus reducing MALDI sample depletion and allowing identification of a larger number of peptide identifications in the cumulative dataset. In the analysis of the digest of a...
Fabrication of a Demountable TM{sub 020} Cavity from Large Grain Ingot Methods

A novel TM020 demountable test cavity has been fabricated by the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) from large grain niobium ingot sheets. This TM020 cavity is designed to have a demountable test plate at the base of the cavity to allow for measuring RF properties as well as performing surface science analysis in an aim to develop plasma processing as a cleaning method for niobium cavities. Large grain ingot sheet fabrication methods were chosen to reduce the cost of the cavity and to produce smooth surfaces at high electric field locations with standard chemistry techniques, i.e. buffered chemical polish.
Concept Of Critical Shear Stress In Loose Boundary Open Channels

The problem of defining critical flow condition associated with the initial instability of bed material particle has been studied in relation to existing concepts. The data has been collected and analysed to indicate that a distinct condition for the beginning of movement doe not exist. The bed load transport in the proximity of so called critical shear stress is governed by certain well defined law. For all practical purpose, a limiting bed shear stress for a bed material can be defined below which the bed load transport is of no practical importance.
Does Patient Gender Impact Resident Physicians’ Approach to the Cardiac Exam?

Background Physical examination remains an important part of the initial evaluation of patients presenting with chest pain but little is known about the effect of patient gender on physician performance of the cardiovascular exam.
Bidding in real estate: A game theoretic approach

Taking advantage of recent developments in bargaining theory, we examine the bidding process for residential real estate. Within this game theoretic context, we consider whether the phenomenon of buyer's remorse is compatible with the rationality required of participants.
Low cost environmental sensors for Spaceflight : NMP Space Environmental Monitor (SEM) requirements

An outstanding problem in spaceflight is the lack of adequate sensors for monitoring the space environment and its effects on engineering systems. By adequate, we mean low cost in terms of mission impact (e.g., low price, low mass/size, low power, low data rate, and low design impact). The New Millennium Program (NMP) is investigating the development of such a low-cost Space Environmental Monitor (SEM) package for inclusion on its technology validation flights. This effort follows from the need by NMP to characterize the space environment during testing so that potential users can extrapolate the test results to end-use conditions. The immediate objective of this effort is to develop a small diagnostic sensor package that could be obtained from commercial sources. Environments being considered are: contamination, atomic oxygen, ionizing radiation, cosmic radiation, EMI, and temperature. This talk describes the requirements and rational for selecting these environments and reviews a preliminary design that includes a micro-controller data logger with data storage and interfaces to the sensors and spacecraft. If successful, such a sensor package could be the basis of a unique, long term program for monitoring the effects of the space environment on spacecraft systems.
Dispersive behaviors of black drum and red drum: Is otolith Sr:Ca a reliable indicator of salinity history?

We tested the hypothesis that strontium:calcium (Sr:Ca) in otoliths are reflective of environmental salinity experienced by two estuarine fishes during early life. Laboratory and field experiments were performed to examine the effects of salinity and temperature on Sr:Ca in otoliths of black drum (Pogonias cromis) and red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus). Otolith Sr:Ca of juveniles reared at four salinities (5‰, 15‰, 25‰, 35‰) differed significantly forP. cromis while no salinity effect was observed forS. ocellatus. Otolith Sr:Ca of both species were not affected by temperature (23°C and 30°C), suggesting that partitioning of Sr in otoliths of these taxa is constant over the temperature range examined. A field verification trial was conducted forP. cromis and a positive relationship between otolith Sr:Ca and ambient salinity was observed, even though the percent variability explained was modest. A series of Sr:Ca point measurements were taken from the core to the edge of the otoliths of wildP. cromis andS. ocellatus, and otolith Sr:Ca chronologies of both species showed conspicuous declines during the first few months of life. While Sr:Ca chronologies of both species suggest that ingress is associated with a reduction in otolith Sr:Ca, inconsistencies in laboratory and field experiments intimate that Sr uptake in the otolith may be insensitive to salinity and regulated by other factors (aqueous chemistry, ontogenetic shifts in habitat, or physiology). Results from early life history transects of otolith Sr:Ca conform to expected patterns of estuarine ingress-egress during early life and indicate that the approach may be useful for detecting large-scale habitat transitions (marine to estuarine habitats).
Coordination chemistry of complexes with metalmetal multiple bonds: Reversible coordination of cyanide ion by dimolybdenum and ditungsten hexaalkoxides

Abstract The dimetal-hexaalkoxides of molybdenum and tungsten (MM) [1a : W2(OtBu)6, 1b : W2(OCH2tBu)6, 1c : Mo2(OtBu)6, 1d : Mo2(OtPr)6, 1e : Mo2(OCH2tBu)6] react reversibly with one equivalent of cyanide ion as its nBu4N salt in non-polar media to form mono-adducts of formula [nBu4N]+[M2(OR)6(CN)]− (2a–e). The spectroscopic data are consistent with the presence of a μ-CN moiety which interacts predominantly as a σ-donor, but do not discount alternative structures which exhibit rapid fluxionality. Addition of a second equivalent (or more) of nBu4NCN leads to the reversible formation of 1,2-diadducts of formula [nBu4N]2+[M2(OR)6(CN)2]2− (3a, 3b, 3d, 3e). Coordination of a second equivalent of cyanide is significantly less favorable than the first so that the consecutive equilibria may be measured. Determination of Keq for the equilibrium M2(OR)6+CN− ⇋ [M2(OR)6(CN)]− allows the first quantitative comparison of the Lewis acidity of the reactive dimetal hexaalkoxides. The identity of the metal and steric factors have a significant effect as shown by the following data: for the formation of 2a, ΔH° = − 11.2(1) kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 18.6(7) eu; 2c, ΔH° = − 8.8(1) kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 18.8(9) eu; 2d, ΔH° = − 10.5(1) kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 18.0(8) eu. Complexes 2b and 2e showed no signs of dissociation under similar conditions and thermodynamic parameters associated with their formation may only be estimated (ΔH° = − 16.9 kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 18.5 eu and ΔH° = − 13.5 kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 18.5 eu respectively). At high temperatures the equilibrium becomes fast relative to the NMR time scale for molybdenum, and this allows an estimation of the rate of dissociation by dynamic lineshape analysis. For [Mo2(OtBu)6 (CN)]− (2c) ΔH‡ = 22.0(5) kcal mol−1, ΔS‡ = 13.5(8) eu while for [Mo2(OCH2tBu)6 (CN)]− (2e) ΔH‡ = 22.2(5) kcal mol−1, ΔS‡ = 13.9(8) eu. Line broadening was not observed for the tungsten alkoxide complexes 2a–b consistent with the greater thermodynamic strength of the W2(CN) bond (ΔΔH° = − 2.4 kcal mol−1). The second equilibrium [M2(OR)6(μ-CN)]− + CN− ⇋ [M2(OR)6(CN)2]2− shows a similar dependence on the nature of the metal and alkoxide: for formation of 3a, ΔH° = − 9.3(5) kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 29(2) eu; for 3e, ΔH° = − 11.6(5) kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 29(2) eu. In contrast, 3c was not detected under any conditions (ΔH° = − 6.9 kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 29.2 eu, estimated) while 3b was undissociated under similar conditions (ΔH° = − 15.0 kcal mol−1, ΔS° = − 29.2 eu, estimated).
Selection of Materials for Use as Electrical Insulation- A Philosophical and Systematic Approach

The selection of a material for use can be simplified by listing the use-requirements/material-properties systematically so that a workable combination of properties can be found. The requirements are organized under the headings of mechanical, thermal, environmental, electrical, and economic. These are generally in decreasing order of importance except where economic factors override.
Brain amino acid concentration changes during status epilepticus induced by lithium and pilocarpine.

Abstract Amino acid concentrations were measured in specific structures from the brains of rats decapitated before and during the course of status epilepticus induced by lithium and pilocarpine, with the stages of status defined by the electroencephalographic (EEG) pattern displayed. Early status was marked by discrete seizures on EEG, mid status by continuous spiking, and late status by periodic epileptiform discharges. Aspartate levels were lower than control levels in most regions prior to the onset of status. The decline continued and reached statistical significance in different regions at times from early to late status. Glutamate concentrations were typically higher than control just prior to status onset and then decreased in a manner similar to aspartate, but with less percentage change. γ-Aminobutyric acid increased during status, with the earliest statistically significant differences observed in mid status. These changes were observed in most forebrain structures studied, but the largest percentage changes in excitatory amino acid concentration were found in substantia nigra, where they fell to less than half of control.
Depolarization Cross Sections for the Metastable Noble Gases by Optical Pumping

The relaxation times of optically oriented metastable atoms of Ne, Ar, and Xe in buffers of noble gases have been measured, and depolarization cross sections obtained. The cross sections range from 0.43 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ for ${\mathrm{Xe}}^{m}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{Xe}$ collisions to 190 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ for ${\mathrm{Ne}}^{m}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{He}$.
Multiple molecular forms of human alanine aminopeptidase: Immunochemical properties

Abstract Human pancreas, kidney, and liver alanine aminopeptidases have similar if not identical antigenic determinants even though these three isoenzymes have distinctly different electrophoretic mobilities. Single precipitin lines without spur formation were obtained for all three enzymes with antisera obtained from rabbits immunized with these three purified enzymes. Treatment of these enzymes with neuraminidase eliminated the differences in their electrophoretic migration on polyacrylamide gels and on agarose immunoelectrophoresis gels. Treatment of the pancreas, kidney, and liver alanine aminopeptidases with their respective antibodies yielded enzymes that displayed non-competitive inhibition when the dependence of velocity upon substrate concentration was determined for each enzyme i.e. the antibodies did not cause a change in the Km values obtained in the absence of the antibody whereas Kcat was reduced to the same extent for each enzyme. The removal of sialic acid(s) from these enzymes did not alter their immunochemical characteristics or their kinetic characteristics.