cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Free vascularized fibular graft salvage of complications of long-bone allograft after tumor reconstruction.

Background: Long-bone allograft reconstruction following tumor extirpation can be complicated by problems such as nonunion at the host-allograft junction, allograft fracture, or allograft infection. Free vascularized bone grafts can be used to address these complications. The purpose of the current study was to examine retrospectively the outcomes and complications following allograft reconstruction salvage with onlay vascularized fibular grafts. Methods: A tumor registry review was conducted to identify all patients who underwent a reconstruction with a vascularized fibular graft for allograft reconstruction complications following tumor resection (host-graft nonunion, allograft fracture, or allograft nonunion) in the last nineteen years. The records of these patients were analyzed for details regarding the neoplasms and the treatment thereof, details of the free vascularized fibular graft reconstruction, time to osseous union, functional outcome, and clinical outcome. Results: Thirty-three patients satisfied the criteria for this study. The involved bones were the femur (eighteen patients), tibia (eight), and humerus (seven). Osseous union was achieved in all patients at a mean of 7.7 months. The average duration of follow-up was seventy-three months. Twenty-three patients achieved a good or excellent functional outcome. Ultimately, seven patients had a failure of the allograft reconstruction, which resulted in limb loss in five of them. Postoperative complications were relatively common in this series. Conclusions: Free vascularized fibular grafting is a useful adjunctive surgical treatment for nonunion, fracture, and infection of an intercalary allograft reconstruction in limb salvage surgery. It has, however, a high rate of associated complications often resulting in failure. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia survival and use of extracorporeal life support at selected level III nurseries with multimodality support

Abstract Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has been cited to have a mortality rate of 50%. There have been multiple studies at individual institutions demonstrating potential benefits from various strategies including extracorporeal life support (ECLS), delayed repair, and lower levels of ventilator support. There has been no multicenter survey of institutions offering these modalities to describe the current use of ECLS and survival of these infants. In addition, the relationship between the number of patients with CDH managed at an individual institution and outcome has not been evaluated. Methods: We queried 16 level III neonatal intensive care centers on the use of ECLS and survival of infants with CDH who were treated during 2 consecutive years (1993 to 1995). Data are presented as mean ± SEM, median, and range. Results: Data were collected on 411 patients. Of these, 71% ± 8% were outborn and 8% ± 3% were considered nonviable. Overall survival of CDH infants was 69% ± 4% (range, 39% to 95%). The survival rate of infants on ECLS was 55% ± 4%, whereas survival of infants not requiring ECLS was significantly increased at 81% ± 5% (p = 0.005). The mean rate of ECLS use was 46% ± 2%. There was no correlation between the number of cases per year at an individual institution and overall survival, ECLS survival, or ECLS use (r = 0.341, 0.305, and 0.287, respectively). There was also no correlation between case volume at an individual institution and ECLS survival (r = 0.271). Conclusions: The current survival rate and rate of ECLS use in infants with CDH at level III neonatal intensive care units in the United States are 69% ± 4% and 46% ± 2%, respectively. There is no correlation between the yearly individual center experience with managing CDH and rate of ECLS use or outcome. (Surgery 1998;123:305-10.)
Basic optimality results for Bayesian group replacement policies

The optimal structure of Bayesian group replacement policies for a parallel system of n items with exponential failure times and random failure parameter is presented. The paper contains a proof of the fact that it is optimal to observe the system only at failure times. For the case of two items operating in parallel the exact form of the policy is derived.
Nickel Cadmium Battery Systems for Aerospace Support Equipment

This paper describes a sintered plate nickel cadmium battery system, including charge and discharge regulating circuitry capable of delivering 8 kilowatts of power within a 27.4 to 31 volt dc limit, and discusses the characteristics of these batteries in these applications. Flexibility for complete or temporary power interruptions are provided. Nickel cadmium batteries have been chosen for these operations because of (1) their capability of delivering high levels of current from small packages and (2) their proven high reliability in extended service. To optimize the performance of the nickel cadmium battery requires controlled charging profiles. Generally, energy must be restored to the battery at 140% of the discharge ampere hour rating. Circuitry for automatically accomplishing this charge are described. The regulation of output voltage between 31 and 27.4 volts was deemed critical in this application. End cell switching techniques and control methods are described for improving the voltage regulation of the system under conditions of high and low load values.
THE HELIUM AND CARBON ISOTOPE SYSTEMATICS OF A CONTINENTAL GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM : RESULTS FROM MONITORING STUDIES AT LONG VALLEY CALDERA (CALIFORNIA, U.S .A.)

Abstract This study reports fumarole and hot spring gas chemistry of a 3-year monitoring programme (1986–1988) at the seismically-active Long Valley caldera (LVC) in the Sierra Nevada, eastern California. The focus is on helium and carbon dioxide (isotopes and concentrations) and their variation in response to seismic activity in the region. Within the caldera, both species are predominantly magmatic in origin but their isotopic and elemental characteristics appear to be established prior to shallow-level intrusion and/or are influenced by pre-eruptive degassing. In response to intra-caldera and regional seismicity over the monitoring period, CO2 and helium show markedly different behaviour: the greatest change in various carbon-related parameters (CO2%; δ13C(CO2; CO 2 3 He ) occurred in 1986 and were most likely related to regional seismicity in the nearby Chalfont Valley. Helium did not respond to these events. The largest change (up to ∼ 25%) in 3 He 4 He ratios was seen in 1987 with the occurrence of both increases and decreases relative to the almost constant values observed in 1988. The increases are consistent with magma intrusion occurring within the caldera in 1987 whilst the decreases occurred significantly later (> 6 months) than any seismic activity. It is suggested that decreases in 3 He 4 He are related to the regional seismicity and that the hydrothermal system exerts a (temporal) control on the release of near-surface 4He. At LVC this is related to the timing of the late spring thaw. Results from previous monitoring programmes (when the level of seismicity in the caldera was higher) are evaluated against variations in the present work. There appears to be a convincing link between higher 3 He 4 He values and the level of seismicity in the caldera although factors related to location, magnitude and frequency of seismic events are difficult to quantify. Because of the inferred small isotopic contrast between new magma and presently-degassing magma at LVC, it is anticipated that large variations in 3 He 4 He within the central caldera are unlikely to occur until the magmatic volatile signal wanes as a function of degassing and time. Alternatively, only at those localities situated at significant distances from the region of magma intrusion (i.e. away from the resurgent dome vicinity) are helium and/or carbon likely to respond dramatically to intra-caldera seismicity.
Staging worms for next-generation analysis

Automated stage-specific sorting of Caenorhabditis elegans embryos enables next-generation molecular and biochemical analysis of development.
Behavior modification as therapeutic paradox.

Book reviewed in this article: Techniques of behavior modification are reinterpreted according to a communication analysis, instead of the learning paradigm rationale. In this communication analysis, the effectiveness of the behavior modification techniques is viewed as depending on the establishment of a therapeutic paradox for the client. Although this robs the techniques of their simplicity, important implications emerge for the role of the therapist, individual differences in clients, the learning vs. choosing distinction, and for the achievement of long-range and complex changes.
Regulation of gonadotropin, thyrotropin subunit, and prolactin messenger ribonucleic acid expression by pulsatile or continuous protein kinase-C stimulation

The present study investigated the importance of pulsatile vs. continuous protein kinase-C (PKC) stimulation in regulating pituitary gene expression. Adult female rat pituitaries were dissociated, and cells were plated for 48 h, then inserted into perifusion chambers (n = 5-8/group). Chambers received pulses of GnRH (100 pM) plus TRH (4 nM) or sn-1,2-dioctanoylglycerol (DOG; peak chamber concentration, 0.2, 1, or 5 mM; vehicle pulses to controls) every 60 min or a continuous infusion of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA; 20 nM). Secretory responses were determined in perifusate fractions collected after 2 and 22 h of perifusion. After 24 h of treatment, the cells were recovered, total RNA was extracted, and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were measured by dot blot hybridization. The data revealed that GnRH plus TRH and both pulsatile (DOG) and continuous (PMA) PKC stimulation increased LH, FSH, TSH, and PRL secretory activity. Pulses of GnRH plus TRH increased PRL, alpha, TSH beta, and FSH beta mRNAs, but not L...
A simple model of solvation within the molecular orbital theory

A simple model of solvation within the molecular orbital method is proposed whereby the effect of solvent molecules is simulated by the inclusion of fractional point charges at the solvent atomic centers. The method is applied to three solvation problems: the hydration of Li+ and F− and the solvation effect on the interaction between NH3 and HF. The results of the first two calculations indicate that the point charge model is capable of reliably predicting solvation energies. The calculations for H3N···HF demonstrate that the hydration has a profound effect on the potential energy surface favoring a proton transfer structure H3NH+···F−.
The Transition Experiences, Activities, and Supports of Four College Students with Disabilities.

An increased focus on expanding and synthesizing the transition evidence base, while important, should be supplemented with research highlighting the lived experiences of young adults with disabili...
Micro-analysis of sulfur-isotope ratios and zonation by laser microprobe

The University of Wisconsin laser microprobe/mass spectrometer system combines high spatial resolution with precise, accurate, and rapid analysis of sulfur-isotope ratios. Spot sizes of 100–200 μm are routine and much higher spatial resolution may be possible. Analytical precision ranges from 1σ = ±0.15%. (pyrite, pyrrhotite, sphalerite) to 1σ = ±0.43%.. (galena, chalcopyrite). Comparison of laser microprobe and conventional combustion analyses indicates that laser δ34S values are approximately equal to or lower than combustion values for these minerals, and an empirical correction of −0.1‰ (sphalerite) to +1.4%. (pyrrhotite) is required. Variations in δ18O of SO2, laser power density, and burn duration affect the magnitude of this correction; thus, consistent technique is critical. Natural samples were analyzed by laser microprobe to evaluate the extent of sulfur-isotope ratio zonation. Coexisting sulfide mineral pairs from the Rua Cove Mine, Alaska, show that isotopic equilibrium exists in the stockwork feeder zone, while disequilibrium characterizes coexisting pairs from the overlying, more rapidly cooled massive sulfide blanket. Conventional sulfur isotope extraction data on these samples are not valid due to the fine-grained, intergrown nature of the sulfide phases, which precludes satisfactory mineral separation. Isotopically homogeneous sphalerite and pyrite crystals were found in samples from the amphibolite facies Balmat Mine, while isotopically heterogeneous pyrite crystals were found in a sample from the upper greenschist facies Sullivan Mine. Sulfur-isotope zonation up to 2.9%. in 200 μm was found in banded sphalerite blacksmoker chimney material from the Bayda Mine (Oman). Retrograde sulfides from the Marcy Anorthosite Massif vary by 4.2%. over <1 cm, and finely disseminated sulfides from an amphibolite-granulite facies transition zone sample, southern India, are in disequilibrium across the 25 cm facies transition. These results show that sulfur isotope homogeneity may be attained in the cores of annealed high-grade metamorphic minerals while lower temperature, retrograde, or hydrothermally deposited minerals are often isotopically zoned due to temporal variations in fluid chemistry and temperature.
Convergent and divergent effects of costimulatory molecules in conventional and regulatory CD4+ T cells.

Costimulatory molecules of the CD28 family on T lymphocytes integrate cues from innate immune system sensors and modulate activation responses in conventional CD4+ T cells (Tconv) and their FoxP3+ regulatory counterparts (Treg). To better understand how costimulatory and coinhibitory signals might be integrated, we profiled the changes in gene expression elicited in the hours and days after engagement of Treg and Tconv by anti-CD3 and either anti-CD28, -CTLA4, -ICOS, -PD1, -BLA, or -CD80. In Tconv, a shared “main response” was induced by CD28, ICOS, and, surprisingly, BTLA and CD80, with very limited CD28-specific (primarily Il2) or ICOS-specific elements (including Th1 and Th2 but not the follicular T signature). CTLA4 and PD1 had a very subtle impact in this system, similarly inhibiting the response to anti-CD3. Treg responded to the same costimulatory hierarchy and to the same extent as Tconv, but inducing different clusters of genes. In this reductionist system, costimulatory or coinhibitory engagement mainly elicits generic responses, suggesting that the variability of their effects in vivo result from temporal or anatomical differences in their engagement, rather than from inherently different wiring.
Apurinic DNA endonuclease activities in repair-deficient human cell lines

Several autosomal recessive diseases are associated with apparent DNA repair defects in cell culture. It seemed likely that a defect in excision repair reported for ataxia telangiectasia cells might reflect a lack of apurinic endonuclease activity. We report here normal levels of apurinic endonuclease activity in extracts of cell lines derived from patients with ataxia telangiectasia, xeroderma pigmentosum (complementation group D), Cockayne dwarfism, Fanconi anemia and Bloom syndrome.
Fouling and protein adsorption effect of low-temperature plasma treatment of membrane surfaces

Adsorption of proteins and the effect of the chemical nature of membrane surfaces on protein adsorption were investigated using14C-tagged albumin and several microporous membranes (polyvinilydene fluoride, PVDF; nylon; polypropylene, PP; and polycarbonate, PC). The membrane surfaces were modified by exposing them to low-temperature plasma of several different monomers (n-butane, oxygen, nitrogen alone or as mixtures) in a radiofrequency plasma reactor. Transients in the permeability of albumin solutions through the membranes and changes in flux of distilled water through the membranes before and after adsorption of albumin were used to investigate the role of protein adsorption on membrane fouling. The results show that the extent of adsorption of albumin on hydrophobic membranes was considerably more than that on hydrophilic membranes. The hydrophilic membranes were susceptible to electrostatic interactions and less prone to fouling. A pore-blocking model was successfully used to correlate the loss of water flux through pores of defined geometry
Photocatalytic oxidation of aqueous trichloroethylene using dye sensitized buoyant photocatalyst monitored via micro-headspace solid-phase microextration gas chromatography/electron capture detection and mass spectrometry

Abstract Trichloroethylene (TCE), a useful industrial agent which unfortunately exhibits carcinogenic properties, has become an extremely prevalent environmental contaminant. As such, new rapid, sensitive, and cost effective detection methods are needed for the identification of potential point sources of contamination. A new analytic micro-headspace method is described, utilizing solid phase micro-extraction (SPME) fibers and routine gas chromatography/electron capture detection (GC/ECD) for the detection of TCE to the 3.89 ppb level in aqueous samples. The polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) fiber was shown to have the greatest analytical promise, with excellent sensitivity and minimal carry over. This method was employed in the monitoring of the photo-oxidation of TCE using buoyant TiO 2 coated microspheres, which were sensitized using natural anthocyanin dyes obtained from fruits. Solar mediated photo-oxidation was shown to be a successful method for the removal of aqueous organic contaminants. The dye sensitized system yielded excellent remediation with 93% of the TCE removed from the system within 12 h. As irradiation was executed, overall TCE concentrations were reduced, while the expected mineralization product of hydrochloric acid was produced. The micro-headspace SPME procedure described here, offers considerably improved sensitivity, with orders of magnitude improvement in method detection limits, over previously published micro-headspace methods.
IgG4-related lymphadenopathy and IgG4-related lymphoma: moving targets

Abstract IgG4 is the least common of all the IgG subclasses. In recent years an uncommon systemic disease characterized by variable manifestations that may include the presence of tumour-like sclerosing lesions in a variety of extranodal sites, lymphadenopathy, presence of increased numbers of IgG4+ plasma cells in affected tissues, elevated serum IgG4 level, frequent presence of autoantibodies and often, a good response to steroid therapy or Rituximab has been described. The disorder has been called IgG4-related sclerosing disease, IgG4-related systemic disease and IgG4-related autoimmune disease; currently the preferred designation is IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD). In addition to other changes that may be found in association with IgG4-RD, some investigators have suggested that IgG4-RD may serve as a substrate for the development of lymphoma. This review focuses on lymphadenopathy associated with IgG4-RD and also explores the significance of isolated lymphadenopathy with increased numbers of IgG4+ plasma cells. Emerging data on lymphomas arising in association with IgG4-RD and the possibility of an increased risk of lymphoma in patients with IgG4-RD are also discussed.
Effects of valinomycin on lymphocytes independent of potassium permeability.

Abstract 10−7 M valinomycin affects human lymphocytes in the following manner: (1) it is non-toxic; (2) it inhibits mitogenesis; (3) it causes a reduction in cell ATP; and (4) it causes a marked increase in steady-state Na+ exchange. However, it has a minimal effect on cell ion (K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+) contents and no effect whatever on K+ exchange. Neither the fast nor the slow fraction of steady-state K+ exchange is affected by 10−7 M valinomycin. The various reported effects of valinomycin on lymphocyte functions cannot be assumed to be due to changes in plasma membrane K+ permeability. The mechanism of the increase in steady-state Na+ exchange, and whether or not it is related to inhibition of mitogenesis, are unsettled issues.
Multiphase flow and transport modeling in heterogeneous porous media: challenges and approaches

Abstract We review the current status of modeling multiphase systems, including balance equation formulation, constitutive relations for both pressure-saturation-conductivity and interphase mass transfer, and stochastic and computational issues. We discuss weaknesses and inconsistencies of current approaches based on theoretical, computational, and experimental evidence. Where possible, we suggest new or evolving approaches.
The Homestead kimberlite, central Montana, USA: mineralogy, xenocrysts, and upper-mantle xenoliths

Abstract The Homestead kimberlite was emplaced in lower Cretaceous marine shale and siltstone in the Grassrange area of central Montana. The Grassrange area includes aillikite, alnoite, carbonatite, kimberlite, and monchiquite and is situated within the Archean Wyoming craton. The kimberlite contains 25–30 modal% olivine as xenocrysts and phenocrysts in a matrix of phlogopite, monticellite, diopside, serpentine, chlorite, hydrous Ca–Al–Na silicates, perovskite, and spinel. The rock is kimberlite based on mineralogy, the presence of atoll-textured groundmass spinels, and kimberlitic core-rim zoning of groundmass spinels and groundmass phlogopites. Garnet xenocrysts are mainly Cr-pyropes, of which 2–12% are G10 compositions, crustal almandines are rare and eclogitic garnets are absent. Spinel xenocrysts have MgO and Cr2O3 contents ranging into the diamond inclusion field. Mg-ilmenite xenocrysts contain 7–11 wt.% MgO and 0.8–1.9 wt.% Cr2O3, with (Fe+3/Fetot) from 0.17–0.31. Olivine is the only obvious megacryst mineral present. One microdiamond was recovered from caustic fusion of a 45-kg sample. Upper-mantle xenoliths up to 70 cm size are abundant and are some of the largest known garnet peridotite xenoliths in North America. The xenolith suite is dominated by dunites, and harzburgites containing garnet and/or spinel. Granulites are rare and eclogites are absent. Among 153 xenoliths, 7% are lherzolites, 61% are harzburgites, 31% are dunites, and 1% are orthopyroxenites. Three of 30 peridotite xenoliths that were analysed are low-Ca garnet–spinel harzburgites containing G10 garnets. Xenolith textures are mainly coarse granular, and only 5% are porphyroclastic. Xenolith modal mineralogy and mineral compositions indicate ancient major-element depletion as observed in other Wyoming craton xenolith assemblages, followed by younger enrichment events evidenced by tectonized or undeformed veins of orthopyroxenite, clinopyroxenite, websterite, and the presence of phlogopite-bearing veins and disseminated phlogopite. Phlogopite-bearing veins may represent kimberlite-related addition and/or earlier K-metasomatism. Xenolith thermobarometry using published two-pyroxene and Al-in-opx methods suggest that garnet–spinel peridotites are derived from 1180 to 1390 °C and 3.6 to 4.7 GPa, close to the diamond–graphite boundary and above a 38 mW/m2 shield geotherm. Low-Ca garnet–spinel harzburgites with G10 garnets fall in about the same T and P range. Most spinel peridotites with assumed 2.0 GPa pressure are in the same T range, possibly indicating heating of the shallow mantle. Four of 79 Cr diopside xenocrysts have P–T estimates in the diamond stability field using published single-pyroxene P–T calculation methods.
Structure Development during Stretching and Heating of Isotactic Propylene–1-Butylene Random Copolymer: From Unit Cells to Lamellae

Structure changes in propylene–1-butylene (P–B) random copolymer having low content of butylene concentration (5.7 mol %) during stretching and heating were investigated by combined wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) techniques. On the basis of 2D data analysis, two crystal modifications with three orientation modes were determined: γ-phase lamellae with “tilted cross-β” configuration, aligned α-phase lamellae (with respect to the stretching direction) and α-phase daughter lamellae. It was found that γ-phase was unstable and could be transformed into α-phase by stretching. The early stage “four-point” SAXS pattern was attributed to the coexistence of both α- and γ-phase lamellae. The c-axis in the γ-phase was parallel to the lamellar long axis, where corresponding polymer chains were perpendicular to this axis. On the other hand, the c-axis in the α-phase was aligned to the stretching direction. After yielding, the SAXS pattern changed into a “two-point” pattern al...
Adsorption and Desorption of PEO−PPO−PEO Triblock Copolymers on a Self-Assembled Hydrophobic Surface

We report on the adsorption from solution of a family of triblock copolymers, copoly(ethylene oxide−propylene oxide−ethylene oxide) (PEO−PPO−PEO), on a gold surface modified by a methyl-terminated, self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of a long-chain alkanethiol (CH3(CH2)10SH). We employed a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique to determine polymer-adsorbed amounts. We also performed atomic force microscopy (AFM) in the liquid environment on a selected number of cases to discern the morphology of the copolymer-coated surfaces. This study shows that the adsorbed amounts go through a maximum near the critical micelle concentration (cmc) and that the process is only partially reversible. Trends in the adsorbed amounts with varying relative composition of the copolymer blocks are consistent with scaling law predictions for the adsorption of block copolymers from selective solvents. AFM imaging shows micellar aggregates at the surface for a copolymer with higher relative hydrophobic content. In contrast, for a ...
Heat Conduction in an Eccentrically Hollow, Infinitely Long Cylinder With Internal Heat Generation

The steady temperature distribution nn an infinitely long, eccentrically hollow cylinder with uniform rate of internal heat generation is discussed. An exact theoretical solution ns presented. The result is applied to the special case of no internal heat generation, and the rate of heat conduction is obtained. (auth)
Inositol Trisphosphate Mobilizes Intracellular Calcium in Permeabilized Adrenal Chromaffin Cells

: Using permeabilized chromaffin cells and the fluorescent probe Quin 2 (an indicator of free Ca2+), we found that inositol trisphosphate (IP3) specifically triggered an immediate and dose-dependent release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Desensitization of the response was observed at nonsaturating concentrations of inositol trisphosphate and resequestration of Ca2+ was not observed. While representing only a small fraction of the total cellular Ca2+, the amount released by IP3 could significantly raise cytosolic Ca2+ and may account for muscarinic effects on Ca2+ metabolism in chromaffin cells.
EPO and super-EPO: erythropoietins direct neoangiogenesis by cardiac progenitor cells.

Erythropoietin, the red blood cell-making cytokine, is also a potential cytoprotective agent in heart disease. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Hoch et al. (2011) use two heart failure models, including chemotherapeutic cardiotoxicity, to reveal a mechanistic connection between reduced cardiomyocyte production of erythropoietin and neoangiogenesis by cardiac progenitors.
Processing partially coherent large seismic array for discrimination

Seismic signals in a band of frequencies near 1.0 Hz. can be detected from underground explosions and earthquakes at distances of several thousand kilometers. A stochastic model has been proposed to characterize observed signal variations within a Large Aperture Seismic Array (LASA). The model assumes that the observed signal spectrum at a seismometer is some average spectrum multiplied by a random gain and phase. Within a subarray (7 km. aperture) the mean value of the modulus squared of the random term is approximated by 1.0 +0.18 f2 where f is frequency in Hz. For sensors drawn from the full LASA (200 km. aperture) the value is 1.0 +2.0 f2. Two alternative methods for extracting spectral information above 1.0 Hz for discrimination between event types are compared. Beamforming spectra are obtained from the Fourier transform of the average received signal. An alternative incoherent processing method, spectraforming, is to calculate the average spectrum from individual seismometers. Both can be corrected for bias. It is demonstrated that although beamforming will give more noise rejection than spectraforming, that the latter can be superior in terms of output signal to noise ratio when input signal variations between sensors are large. Spectraforming may be of significant value for obtaining spectral information in the 1.0 - 3.0 Hz band for events with Richter magnitudes in the range 4.0 - 4.5. This magnitude range is of considerable current interest for the purpose of nuclear test detection and discrimination.
Responses of transgenic maize hybrids to variant western corn rootworm larval injury

In 2005 and 2006, transgenic insecticidal maize hybrids (YieldGard Rootworm, MON 863, Cry3Bbl, Vector ZMIR 13L) were evaluated for their ability to limit root injury caused by western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte) larval feeding. Hybrids in each year of the experiment were planted in plots that had been devoted to a trap crop (late-planted maize interplanted with pumpkins) the previous growing season. All maize hybrids were provided by Monsanto Company and the genetic backgrounds remain unknown to the investigators. In 2005, the experiment was conducted in Urbana, Illinois. Urbana is located in east central Illinois, an area of the state in which a variant of the western corn rootworm has overcome the pest management benefits of crop rotation. Variation in root injury was noted across the maize hybrids in 2005 and the level of pruning increased from 20 July to 9 August for most hybrids. In 2006, the experiment was conducted in two locations, Monmouth and Urbana, Illinois. Monmouth is located in north-western Illinois and is within an area of the state in which densities of the variant of the western corn rootworm are lower than in east-central Illinois. In 2006, variation in root protection was again observed across the maize hybrids. Root injury differences among the hybrids were more prominent at the Urbana site. Similar to the previous year, root injury increased from the third week in July to the first week of August at both locations with this increase most noticeable at the Urbana location. We hypothesize that the variant western corn rootworm may be able to inflict more root injury to these transgenic insecticidal maize hybrids than the non-variant population of this species.
Specific heat of the organic metal bis(tetrathiotetracene) tri-iodide from 20 to 100 K, the vicinity of the metal-nonmetal phase transition

Specific-heat measurements on pressed pellet samples of highly disordered bis(tetrathiotetracene) tri-iodide (TT${\mathrm{T}}_{2}$${\mathrm{I}}_{3}$) have been made from 20 to 100 K using thermal relaxation methods. An anomaly at 50 K in the form of a broad bump is reported which is coincident with magnetic susceptibility structure and occurs approximately 25 K above anomalies in electrical and optical behavior. The specific-heat discontinuity is consistent with a mean-field model for a Peierls phase transition with correction for fluctuations.
Troponin I Serine 150 Phosphorylation Inhibits pH-Induced Troponin Calcium Desensitization

A hallmark of cardiac ischemia is decreased intracellular pH which can affect a number of cellular processes. Such an acidic environment alters cardiac troponin (Tn) myofilament regulation to decrease the Ca2+ sensitivity of force production. Tn also undergoes cardiac ischemic-induced AMPK troponin I (TnI) Ser-150 phosphorylation. We recently characterized the effect of TnI Ser-150 phosphorylation demonstrating it to increase myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity and blunt TnI PKA phosphorylation-induced desensitization. The effect of an acidic environment on Tn myofilament regulation in the presence of the ischemic-induced TnI Ser-150 phosphorylation is unknown. In this study we investigate the effect of pH on myofilament regulation in the presence of TnI Ser-150 phosphorylation. Myofilament regulation was determined by measuring troponin C Ca2+ binding properties at normal and acidic pH. Results demonstrate acidic pH decreases steady-state Ca2+ binding to troponin C in thin filaments reconstituted with either WT or Ser-150 pseudo-phosphorylated TnI (Tn S150D) such that Tn S150D Ca2+ sensitivity at pH 6.5 is similar to WT at pH 7. Furthermore, while Tn S150D slowed Ca2+ dissociation compared to Tn WT at pH 7.0, decreasing the pH to 6.5 did not further alter isolated Tn S150D Ca2+ dissociation indicating a lack of pH to modulate Tn Ca2+ dissociation kinetics. Thin filament dissociation kinetics are ongoing. We conclude that TnI Ser-150 phosphorylation imparts resistance to acidic pH induced myofilament Ca2+ desensitization similar to that present during ischemia without alteration of Tn Ca2+ dissociation. Future investigations are aimed at examining the effect of TnI Ser-150 phosphorylation in the presence of TnI Ser-23/24 phosphorylation at low pH.
Effect of previous exposure of sheep to monoterpene odors on intake of alfalfa pellets treated with camphor or α-pinene

Lambs were subjected to odors of two monoterpenes (camphor and α-pinene) that decreased intake in a previous study to determine if exposure during feeding modified their effects on subsequent intake. In two experiments, 36 ewe lambs were group-fed alfalfa pellets in enclosed portable buildings each morning for 56 d (phase 1). Camphor (25 g, Experiment 1) or α-pinene (50 ml, Experiment 2) was placed in feeders in a mesh-covered container immediately before feeding. In phase 2, lambs were individually fed alfalfa pellets for 20 min each morning for 10 d (5-d adaptation, 5-d collection). Treatments were sprayed on alfalfa pellets at levels representing the concentration of that chemical in tarbush (Flourensia cernua) or at 10-fold that concentration. No day by treatment interactions were detected for intake during adaptation or collection periods for either chemical (P > 0.05); therefore, data were pooled across day. Exposure to the volatile aroma for 56 d had no effect on intake during the subsequent 10-d interval for either monoterpene (P > 0.05). Moreover, intake during the collection period was not affected by treatment concentration (P > 0.05). Neither concentration of the terpene applied to alfalfa pellets nor previous exposure to the volatile aroma of camphor or α-pinene altered feed intake under the conditions of this study.
Mnemonic Techniques Used by College Students in Serial Learning

College students reported 8 categories of memory aids that they would employ in learning a serial task. Although no significant differences were found between males and females by category of memor...
Is the Vando Scale a valid measure of perceptual reactance

A test of the validity of the Vando Scale of perceptual reactance was made by correlating Vando Scale scores with objective pain tolerance, subjective discomfort, distortion in estimation of duration of discomfort, and assertiveness. 84 college women participated in an ice water-tolerance task. Higher scores associated with less subjective discomfort, greater time distortion and reduced submissiveness. Objective tolerance was not correlated with scale scores. It was concluded that the Vando Scale has relatively low construct validity and may be very sensitive to the demand characteristics of the research situation.
Structural and vascular changes accompanying the resorption of the proctodaeal processes after birth in the embryos of the Goodeidae, a family of viviparous fishes

The types of processes encountered in the various species investigated are described. There is included the topography and structure before birth of the gonads, mesonephric ducts, urinary sinus and gut. Following birth, there are but slight changes in the topography of these organs. The most important structural change involves a complete ectodermal reconstitution of the end of the gut to form a true rectum. The vascular supply to the processes in the different species is similar and varies only in the minute details. The arterial supply is furnished by an extension of a single mesenteric artery along the gut. The number of arteries and their position at the gut opening depends on the number and position of the processes at that point. Two venous channels drain the processes; one is somatic and drains into the caudal vein, the other is visceral and empties into the hepatic portal through the subintestinal vein. The former drains the posterior process, the latter, the anterior processes. This basic pattern is constant in all species investigated. A description of the rich capillary plexus on the surface of the processes is included. With the resorption of the processes after birth, vessels that supply them become variously modified. The vein to the anterior processes and the single artery are discontinued. The vein that drains the posterior processes either disappears or is retained in part, undergoing secondary connections.
Inter-rater reliability for witnessed collapse and presence of bystander CPR.

Summary Objective Witnessed collapse and bystander CPR are the variables most frequently associated with good outcome from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OOHCA). The reliability of abstracting witnessed collapse and bystander CPR from prehospital Emergency Medical Services (EMS) patient care records (PCRs) is not known. We sought to determine the inter-rater reliability for different methods of ascertaining and defining witnessed collapse and performance of bystander CPR. Methods A sample of 100 PCRs for patients with OOHCA was selected at random from a pool of 325 PCRs between May 2003 and January 2005. Paramedics used a drop down menu to indicate witnessed collapse and bystander CPR, and completed a narrative description of the event. An on-scene EMS physician also completed a data sheet. The PCR was examined by two separate evaluators to determine the presence of witnessed collapse and bystander CPR. A consensus was reached by three other reviewers using all available data sources. Inter-rater agreement was quantified using the unweighted kappa statistic. Results For witnessed collapse, there is substantial agreement between the following: individual evaluators (kappa = 0.76, S.D. = 0.07), individual evaluators and consensus group (kappa = 0.61, S.D. = 0.07 and 0.66, S.D. = 0.07), and physician and consensus group (kappa = 0.68, S.D. = 0.08). Agreement between individual evaluators and the physician was fair to moderate (kappa = 0.38, S.D. = 0.07 and 0.44, S.D. = 0.07). Agreement between individual evaluators, physician, consensus group and the PCR drop down menu was fair to moderate (kappa range 0.33, S.D. = 0.09 to 0.54, S.D. = 0.09). For bystander CPR, there is substantial agreement between the individual evaluators and the consensus group (kappa = 0.64, S.D. = 0.07 and 0.63, S.D. = 0.06) and between the physician and the consensus group (kappa = 0.61, S.D. = 0.08). Agreement between the two individual evaluators is moderate (kappa = 0.59, S.D. = 0.07). Agreement between the physician and individual evaluators is fair (kappa = 0.36, S.D. = 0.07 and 0.38, S.D. = 0.07). The PCR drop down menu had moderate to substantial agreement with the individual evaluators, physician, and consensus group (kappa range 0.50, S.D. = 0.09 to 0.75, S.D. = 0.09). Conclusions Determination of witnessed collapse and bystander CPR during OOHCA may be less reliable than previously thought, and differences between methods of rating could influence study results.
Surface oxidation energetics and kinetics on MoS2 monolayer

In this work, surface oxidation of monolayer MoS2 (one of the representative semiconductors in transition-metal dichalcogenides) has been investigated using density functional theory method. Oxygen interaction with MoS2 shows that, thermodynamically, the surface tends to be oxidized. However, the dissociative absorption of molecular oxygen on the MoS2 surface is kinetically limited due to the large energy barrier at low temperature. This finding elucidates the air stability of MoS2 surface in the atmosphere. Furthermore, the presence of defects significantly alters the surface stability and adsorption mechanisms. The electronic properties of the oxidized surface have been examined as a function of oxygen adsorption and coverage as well as substitutional impurities. Our results on energetics and kinetics of oxygen interaction with the MoS2 monolayer are useful for the understanding of surface oxidation, air stability, and electronic properties of transition-metal dichalcogenides at the atomic scale.
The effect of drainage reorganization on paleoaltimetry studies: An example from the Paleogene Laramide foreland

Abstract Using multiple isotope systems, we examine the complex effects of drainage reorganization in the Laramide Foreland in the context of stable isotope paleoaltimetry. Strontium, oxygen and carbon isotopic data from lacustrine carbonates formed in the southwestern Uinta Basin, Utah between the Late Cretaceous and late Middle Eocene reveal a two stage expansion in the drainage basin of Lake Uinta beginning at ~ 53 Ma culminating in the Mahogany highstand at 48.6 Ma. A marked increase in 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios of samples from the Main Body of the Green River Formation is interpreted as the result of water overflowing the Greater Green River Basin in Wyoming and entering Lake Uinta from the east via the Piceance Creek Basin of northwestern Colorado. This large new source of water caused a rapid expansion of Lake Uinta and was accompanied by a significant and rapid increase in the O isotope record of carbonate samples by ~ 6‰. The periodic overspilling of Lake Gosiute probably became continuous at ~ 49 Ma, when the lake captured low- δ 18 O water from the Challis and Absaroka Volcanic Fields to the north. However, evaporation in the Greater Green River and Piceance Creek Basins meant that the waters entering Lake Uinta were still enriched in 18 O. By ~ 46 Ma, inflows from the Greater Green River Basin ceased, resulting in a lowstand of Lake Uinta and the deposition of bedded evaporites in the Saline Facies of the Green River Formation. We thus show that basin development and lake hydrology in the Laramide foreland were characterized by large-scale changes in Cordilleran drainage patterns, capable of confounding paleoaltimetry studies premised on too few isotopic systems, samples or localities. In the case of the North American Cordillera of the Paleogene, we further demonstrate the likelihood that (1) topographic evolution of distal source areas strongly influenced the isotopic records of intraforeland basins and (2) a pattern of drainage integration between the hinterland and foreland may correlate in space and time with the southward sweep of hinterland magmatism.
Ski overexpression impairs TGF-B signaling and results in loss of growth control in human pancreatic cancer

Abstract Introduction: Ski is an oncogenic protein that binds to and inhibits the TGF-B signaling proteins, Smad 2/3, and thereby prevents gene transcription. We hypothesized that human pancreatic cancer resists TGF-B signaling through Ski overexpression. Methods: Immunohistochemistry and western blots confirmed Ski overexpression in human pancreatic cancer. In vitro experiments assessed Ski function in Panc-1 cells by TGF-B-induced transcriptional reporter activation and growth assays in the presence of control or Ski short interfering RNAs (siRNA). Panc-1 cells were inoculated in the flank of nude mice and tumor volume measured after Ski siRNA vector or control administration. Results: Ski overexpression was detected in human pancreatic cancer specimens by immunohistochemistry (91%) and immmunoblot (67%), and in Panc-1 cells. In vitro, Ski siRNA maximally inhibited protein levels 48 hours after transfection, and TGF-B transcriptional activity was increased 2-fold compared to control siRNA treated cells (p Conclusions: Human pancreatic cancers overexpress Ski. Inhibition of Ski through RNA interference restored TGF-B signaling and growth inhibition in vitro and decreased tumor growth in vivo. These findings support a role for Ski as a suppressor of TGF-B signaling in pancreatic cancer.
Thermoelectric microfluidic sensor for bio-chemical applications

Abstract A thermoelectric microfluidic sensor (TMS) was developed for characterizing biochemical reactions. The device consists of a 100 μm deep microfluidic channel with a Bi/Sb thin-film thermopile attached to its bottom surface. The thermopile has a Seebeck coefficient of ∼7 μV (m K)−1 and excellent rejection of common mode thermal signals. The design and geometry of the microfluidic device and thermopile in combination with hydrodynamic fluid focusing facilitates the detection of small dynamic temperature changes in the order of 10−4 K without the control of ambient temperature or the thermopile reference junction temperature. Response of the thermopile for interaction of water with various concentrations of ethanol was studied to demonstrate the operation of the sensor. CoventorWare® simulations were performed to demonstrate the hydrodynamic focusing effect and the extent of mixing for different device flow rates. The device has the sensitivity of 0.045 V-s J−1 when known quantities of energy are applied to a nichrome heater incorporated on the inner side of the microfluidic sensor bottom channel wall, while continuously injecting deionized (DI) water. A low ethanol sample volume of 5 μL is used in the microfluidic device. Effects of flow rates on the ethanol response were characterized. Results showed an increased ethanol response with a decrease in the relative inlet flow rates.
COMPARISON OF QUANTUM MECHANICAL METHODS TO COMPUTE THE BIOLOGICALLY RELEVANT REACTIVITIES OF CYCLOPENTA-POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS

In computational studies to understand the interaction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with biomolecular systems, the semiempirical method AM1 has been used previously to determine the geometry of the PAH and its metabolites and relevant intermediates. A number of studies have shown that AM1 provides geometries for parent PAHs that are acceptably close to experimentally determined structures. However, many of the properties that determine the manner by which PAHs interact with biological nucleophiles depend on the structure of metabolites and reactive intermediates where less experimental information is available. In a previous study, we used AM1 to obtain the molecular geometries of reactive intermediates of cyclopenta-PAHs (cPAHs) and then used single-point Hartree-Fock calculations, with the gaussian 3-21g basis set, to obtain molecular energies and charge distributions, in order to predict the direction of epoxide ring opening. Recent advances in the availability of computational hardware and software have provided other, more rigorous, methods for approaching this problem. In this study, we used hartree-fock methods in the gaussian series of programs employing the 3-21g and 6-31g basis sets and the local density functional method Dmol to obtain molecular geometries, energies, and charge distributions of the epoxides and the two potential hydroxycarbocations that could result from protonated ring opening, for a series of cPAHs. We have also performed the same calculations with AMSOL/SM2, a semiempirical method that adds the effect of the aqueous environment to the AM1 Hamiltonian. The division of the cPAHs into classes is not altered by these more rigorous calculations. The inclusion of water in the Hamiltonian has a greater effect on the results than using the ab initio methods to obtain the structure. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.