cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Options and limitations in studies of successive pregnancy outcomes: an overview.

Summary This paper provides a brief overview of options and limitations in studies of successive pregnancy outcomes, largely derived from the author's personal experience on Danish registries. The issues discussed here by no means constitute an exhaustive list, but aim at providing an introduction for researchers interested in this topic.
Identification and quantification of 3-iodothyronamine metabolites in mouse serum using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Abstract 3-Iodothyronamine (T 1 AM) is an endogenous derivative of thyroxine. Recently there have been numerous reports of analytical methods to quantify endogenous T 1 AM levels, but substantial discrepancies in concentration depending on the method of analysis (LC–MS/MS or immunoassay) suggest endogenous T 1 AM may be covalently modified in vivo . Using information dependent acquisition methods to perform unbiased scans for T 1 AM metabolites following a single IP injection in mice, we have identified O-sulfonate-T 1 AM, N-acetyl-T 1 AM and T 1 AM-glucuronide as conjugates occurring in vivo , as well as the oxidatively deaminated 3-iodothyroacetic acid and non-iodinated thyroacetic acid. 3-iodothyroacetic acid, O-sulfonate-T 1 AM and T 1 AM-glucuronide are present in serum at greater concentrations that unmodified T 1 AM and all metabolites are extensively distributed to tissues. These results suggest covalent modifications of T 1 AM may play a critical role in regulating distribution and biological activity of T 1 AM, and analytical methods to quantify endogenous T 1 AM should be able to account for these metabolites as well.
Hourly measurements of fine particulate sulfate and carbon aerosols at the Harvard-U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Supersite in Boston.

Abstract Hourly concentrations of ambient fine particle sulfate and carbonaceous aerosols (elemental carbon [EC], organic carbon [OC], and black carbon [BC]) were measured at the Harvard–U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Supersite in Boston, MA, between January 2007 and October 2008. These hourly concentrations were compared with those made using integrated filter-based measurements over 6-day or 24-hr periods. For sulfate, the two measurement methods showed good agreement. Semicontinuous measurements of EC and OC also agreed (but not as well as for sulfate) with those obtained using 24-hr integrated filter-based and optical BC reference methods. During the study period, 24-hr PM2.5 (particulate matter [PM] ≤ 2.5 µm in aerodynamic diameter) concentrations ranged from 1.4 to 37.6 µg/m3, with an average of 9.3 µg/m3. Sulfate as the equivalent of ammonium sulfate accounted for 39.1% of the PM2.5 mass, whereas EC and OC accounted for 4.2 and 35.2%, respectively. Hourly sulfate concentrations showed no dist...
Sediment Dispersion in Northern Channel Island Passages, California: ABSTRACT

The presence of strong bottom currents in the northern Channel Island passages makes these areas ideal for the study of sediment dispersion and energy regimes by analysis of the textural properties of the sediments. A grid-sampling system was used to take 25, 36, and 37 grab samples from San Miguel Passage, Santa Cruz Channel, and Anacapa Passage, respectively. The sand fraction of each sample was analyzed texturally by an automatic settling tube. The data then were synthesized by an IBM 360 computer, which constructed 5th-degree trend surface maps for the mean, sorting, skewness, and kurtosis values for each of the passages. Of the primary agents available for transport of traction load, it is suggested that wind-driven currents are more important in accounting for the sediment distribution than either tidal currents or wave action. Although the last two are active continually, it is believed that their effect is superimposed on the net movement caused by wind-driven currents, and hence they are subordinate processes. San Miguel Passage is characterized by southeastward sediment dispersion. The energy level is highest in the center of the passage and there is a gradual decrease in energy toward the sides. A lobe of coarse sediment in the northern section of Santa Cruz Channel shows the southeastward dispersion; however, fine sediment from the east moves into the southern part of the area, where it is intercepted by currents at the head of Santa Cruz Canyon. Because there is dispersion both east and west, Santa Cruz Channel may represent a shear zone between two prominent currents. Anacapa Passage shows dominant westerly dispersion with a superimposed north-south tidal-current effect. All the passages are believed to be at or near equilibrium with respect to sediments and mechanical energy. End_of_Article - Last_Page 557------------
Genome-wide and single-cell analyses reveal a context dependent relationship between CBP recruitment and gene expression

Genome-wide distribution of histone H3K18 and H3K27 acetyltransferases, CBP (CREBBP) and p300 (EP300), is used to map enhancers and promoters, but whether these elements functionally require CBP/p300 remains largely uncertain. Here we compared global CBP recruitment with gene expression in wild-type and CBP/p300 double-knockout (dKO) fibroblasts. ChIP-seq using CBP-null cells as a control revealed nearby CBP recruitment for 20% of constitutively-expressed genes, but surprisingly, three-quarters of these genes were unaffected or slightly activated in dKO cells. Computationally defined enhancer-promoter-units (EPUs) having a CBP peak near the enhancer-like element were more predictive, with CBP/p300 deletion attenuating expression of 40% of such constitutively-expressed genes. Examining signal-responsive (Hypoxia Inducible Factor) genes showed that 97% were within 50 kilobases of an inducible CBP peak, and 70% of these required CBP/p300 for full induction. Unexpectedly, most inducible CBP peaks occurred near signal-nonresponsive genes. Finally, single-cell expression analysis revealed additional context dependence where some signal-responsive genes were not uniformly dependent on CBP/p300 in individual cells. While CBP/p300 was needed for full induction of some genes in single-cells, for other genes CBP/p300 increased the probability of maximal expression. Thus, target gene context influences the transcriptional requirement for CBP/p300, possibly by multiple mechanisms.
Tectonic Patterns and Regional Stresses near Venusian Coronae

A stress analysis of tectonic patterns near Venusian coronae is reported. Combined local corona stresses and uniform regional stresses are used to predict patterns of surface tectonic features. The patterns are compared to those of coronae on Magellan images to determine the regional stress and elastic lithospheric thickness about the coronae. Regional stresses of 0.1-0.6 kbar and elastic lithospheric thicknesses of 10 +/- 5 km are estimated for three specific coronae.
Invasion of endothelial and epithelial cells by strains of Porphyromonas gingivalis

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a periodontal pathogen that may also be involved in the pathogenesis of coronary heart disease. This microorganism has the ability to invade several cell lines. In this study, 26 different strains of P. gingivalis were tested for invasion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and KB cells, a human oral epidermoid cell line. Abilities to invade both cell lines by an individual strain were similar, and their invasion efficiencies could be assembled into four groups: high, moderate, low and non-invasive. Of the 26 strains, only P. gingivalis AJW4 was non-invasive. Since the fimbriae are implicated as having a key role in invasion by this species, the presence of fimbriae on strain AJW4 was investigated. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), strain AJW4 was found to contain the fimA gene. Sequence analysis revealed it to be type IV according to the typing scheme developed by Amano et al. Further, fimA is transcribed in this strain as demonstrated by reverse transcription PCR and is expressed on the cell surface as visualized by negative staining and electron microscopy. The adherence+invasion of strain AJW4 was 38.7% of the most invasive strain (strain 381). However, the CFU ml−1 of strain AJW4 recovered from within cells was 2.9% of strain 381. Even though strains AJW4 and W50 have the same type IV fimbriae, strain AJW4 is 8.9-fold more adhesive yet is internalized 170-fold less. These data indicate that the invasion efficiency of P. gingivalis is variable among the different strains, and that the expression of FimA is not sufficient for invasion.
Disorders of Potassium: Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is defined as a serum [K+] >5.5 mEq/L. It is common in both outside and in-hospital patients. Hyperkalemia can be fatal if not recognized and treated. Proper treatment of hyperkalemia depends on the underlying cause. True hyperkalemia is caused by an excessive exogenous load of K+; it can also result from a decrease in cellular uptake, a massive release following cell lysis, or a decrease in renal excretion. A number of drugs also cause hyperkalemia (Table 16.1). Pseudohyperkalemia refers to a condition in which K+ is released from cells during venipuncture following prolonged application of a tourniquet in the arm. Hemolysis of red blood cells and an increased number of white blood cells (>100,000 cells) and platelets (>1,000,000 platelets) also release K+ and cause pseudohyperkalemia. A benign form of familial pseudohyperkalemia due to leakage of K+ from blood cells has been described in some families.
CORR Insights®: similar clinical outcomes for thas with and without prior periacetabular osteotomy.

This CORR Insights® is a commentary on the article “Similar Clinical Outcomes for THAs With and Without Prior Periacetabular Osteotomy” by Amanatullah and colleagues available at: DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-4026-7. The author certifies that he, or any member of his immediate family, has no funding or commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research ® editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request. The opinions expressed are those of the writers, and do not reflect the opinion or policy of CORR ® or the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons®. This CORR Insights® comment refers to the article available at DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-4026-7.
Computational Design of a Reconfigurable Origami Space Structure Incorporating Shape Memory Alloy Thin Films

The subject of origami design is garnering increased attention from the science, mathematics, and engineering communities. However, relatively little research exists on understanding the behavioral aspects of the material system undergoing the folding operations. This work considers the design and analysis of a novel concept for a self-folding structure. It consists of an active, self-morphing laminate that includes thermally actuated shape memory alloy (SMA) layers and a compliant passive layer. Multiple layers allow folds in both the positive and negative directions relative to the laminate normal. The layers are configured to allow continuously variable folding operations based only on which regions are heated. For the purposes of demonstration, an example problem is considered whereby a thin structure is designed that can be stored in a flat sheet configuration and then morph using sets of folds toward two distinct shapes. We examine the effects of fold width, layer thicknesses, and activation power history on the geometric configurations that can be obtained. The design efforts are supported by a comprehensive and accurate three-dimensional constitutive model for SMAs implemented into a finite element analysis (FEA) framework. Shell elements and laminate theory are used to increase the computational efficiency of the analysis. Discussion of the complex effects of active folding in an SMA laminate sheet with in-plane homogeneity, including transient effects, are discussed.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Effect of Coolant Density on Leading Edge Showerhead Film Cooling Using PSP Measurement Technique

The density ratio effect on leading edge showerhead film cooling has been studied experimentally using the pressure sensitive paint (PSP) mass transfer analogy method. Leading edge model is a blunt body with a semi-cylinder and an after body. There are two designs: seven-row and three-row of film cooling holes for simulating vane and blade, respectively. The film holes are located at 0 (stagnation row), ±15, ±30, and ±45 deg for seven-row design, and at 0 and ±30 for three-row design. Four film holes configurations are used for both test designs: radial angle cylindrical holes, compound angle cylindrical holes, radial angle shaped holes, and compound angle shaped holes. Coolant to mainstream density ratio varies from DR = 1.0, 1.5, to 2.0 while blowing ratio varies from M = 0.5 to 2.1. Experiments were conducted in a low speed wind tunnel with Reynolds number 100,900 based on mainstream velocity and diameter of the cylinder. The mainstream turbulence intensity near leading edge model is about 7%. The results show the shaped holes have overall higher film cooling effectiveness than cylindrical holes, and radial angle holes are better than compound angle holes, particularly at higher blowing ratio. Larger density ratio makes more coolant attach to the surface and increases film protection for all cases. Radial angle shaped holes provides best film cooling at higher density ratio and blowing ratio for both designs.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
The Effects of Biopsy on the Incidence of Metastases in Hamsters Bearing Malignant Melanoma

Biopsies are often essential in establishing a diagnosis in lesions suspected of being malignant melanoma. Many physicians question the safety of such biopsies. Data on this point have been conflicting both with respect to animal and human studies. A high degree of variability in both tumor and host limits adequately controlled melanoma biopsy experiments in man. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of incisional and excisional biopsies on the incidence of metastases. Fortner's melanotic melanoma #1, a hamster tumor, was chosen for study because of morphologic and behavioral similarity to human melanoma. Incisional biopsies of this hamster melanoma tacked significant adverse effect on the incidence of metastases. Excisional biopsies of these tumors resulted in significantly fewer metastases than incisional biopsies or no biopsies.
Tobacco and Other Drug Use among High School Students with Asthma

The 2003 national Youth Risk Behavior Survey data were analyzed to compare drug use among high school students with and without asthma. High school students with current asthma used cigarettes, cigars, marijuana, and inhalants (huffing) at rates equal to or greater than high school students without current asthma.
Embedded wavelet packet transform technique for texture compression

A highly efficient texture compression scheme is proposed in this research. With this scheme, energy compaction of texture images is first achieved by the wavelet packet transform, and an embedding approach is then adopted for the coding of the wavelet packet transform coefficients. By comparing the proposed algorithm with the JPEG standard, FBI wavelet/scalar quantization standard and the EZW scheme with extensive experimental results, we observe a significant improvement in the rate-distortion performance and visual quality.
Network performance: Does it really matter to users and by how much?

Network performance has been the subject of much research over the past decades. However, the impact of performance on a network's users is much less understood from a scientific standpoint. This gap in our knowledge is particularly stark since the primary role of real-world network performance is to increase user satisfaction, and encourage user behaviors that lead to greater monetization. As an example, consider the video delivery ecosystem consisting of content delivery networks (CDNs), video content providers, and their users. Content providers use CDNs to deliver videos to their users with higher performance. In turn, content providers expect the higher quality stream delivery to translate into lesser viewer abandonment, greater viewer engagement, and more repeat viewers, all of which lead to greater profits. Thus, whether and to what extent video performance causally impacts viewer behavior is at the core of the online video ecosystem. We review our prior research that for the first time derives the causal impact of video performance as measured by failures, startup delay and freezes on metrics of user behavior that content providers care about. A centerpiece of our work is a novel technique based on quasi-experimental designs (QEDs) that enable us to derive cause-effect relationships between performance and behavior with a greater degree of confidence than just correlation. While QEDs are used extensively in the social and medical sciences, we adapt the technique for network measurement research that is likely to be useful in a number of other contexts. We hypothesize that the availability of large amounts of performance and behavioral data and the development of novel analytical tools will finally put the users back at the center of network performance research, revolutionizing both how networks are architected for performance and how business models are evolved for real-world networks.
A class of compression systems with model-free encoding

Practical compression systems are constrained by their bit-stream standards, which define the source model together with the coding method used. We introduce a model-free coding architecture that separates the two aspects of compression and allows the design of potentially more powerful source models, as well as more flexible use of the compressed information stream. We show that this architecture is capable of producing competitive performance while supporting new use cases.
Three-Dimensional Characteristics of Diurnally Varying Boundary-Layer Flows

Abstract Numerical models of three-dimensional, diurnally varying, boundary-layer flows are integrated to study the effect of fluctuating pressure gradients and eddy stresses within different circulation systems. The computational problem is reduced by expanding the horizontal dependence of solutions into Taylor series truncated at the first two terms. Within this simplification, sufficient generality is retained to reproduce axially symmetric similarity solutions and solutions of the nonlinear balance equation. For the time-dependent cases, substantial deviations from linearized (horizontally uniform) theory are predicted. Diurnally periodic pressure gradient and eddy stress oscillations cause greatly differing responses for various circulation systems. The magnitude of the balanced vorticity and the nature of the local deformation field have great bearing on the development of boundary-layer jets and secondary vertical circulations.
Selenium detoxification in wetlands by permanent flooding: I. Effects on a macroalga, an epiphytic herbivore, and an invertebrate predator in the long-term mesocosm experiment at Kesterson Reservoir, California

Storage of Se-rich agricultural drainwater in an inland saline marsh (Kesterson Reservoir) resulted in heavily contaminated biota (100 to 300 ppm Se as dw). A hypothesis was proposed that permanent flooding of the marsh with low-Se water (to create anoxic sediments) would immobilize Se in an insoluble fraction unavailable to aquatic biota. This was tested in a 0.4 ha mesocosm at Kesterson Reservoir over 2.3 yr by measuring the decline in Se in plants and animals. The study was part of a larger project, only data for soluble and particulate Se, in the submerged macroalga Chara, and in the aquatic and aerial forms of typical epifloral invertebrates — a herbivore (chironomid), and one of its predators (damselfly) are reported here. Permanent flooding resulted in biologically immobile Se. A rapid initial decline in Se lasting a few months was followed by a slower, irregular but persistent decrease. Soluble Se declined most quickly, followed by that in damselfly and chironomid populations. Declines in the vegetation were slowest but Se fell to a lower level (3 to 4 ppm) than in the animals (14 to 15 ppm), although Se levels were still dropping in all biota at the end of the experiment. Between 85 and 93% of initial Se was lost by the 3 types of organisms over 2.3 yr. There was little difference in loss rates between predator and herbivore. Because Chara was the most common submerged vegetation, its loss of 94% of initial Se to concentrations considered safe for wildlife, is most important to detoxification of the entire wetland.
Noise Suppression in VLSI Circuits Using Dummy Metal Fill

Modern IC processes require metal fill patterning to achieve global uniformity of the metallization/oxide layers. Electrically these fills are often viewed as parasitics to be minimized. In this paper we actively use metal fill to suppress crosstalk noise between coupled traces by selectively grounding metal fills. However, the tradeoff of this improvement is higher total capacitance leading to increased interconnect delay times. We propose design rules that optimize this tradeoff between crosstalk and delay. The design parameters considered include placement of grounded fills, buffer distance and fill shapes. We show that it is best to start grounding metal fills farthest away from the signal traces.
Looking Into the Vessel: The More You See, the More You Want to See

From the first time man pondered his universe, the quest to see better has never ceased. The telescope permitted a better view of the heavens and the earth. The microscope brought a new inner world into view. New ways of imaging created new science. The quest continues in our time and in our field
Adaptive Master-Slave Interleaving method for boundary conduction mode (BCM) buck PFC converter

An interleaved boundary conduction mode power factor correction buck converter that maintains high efficiency across entire load and line range is proposed. The Adaptive Master-Slave Interleaving (AMSI) method maintains stable 180° out of phase operation during any transient. By interleaving two parallel connected buck converters, the input current ripple is halved while the ripple frequency is doubled, which leads to smaller differential mode line filter. The line current harmonic distortion is analyzed to examine the allowable output voltage range while meeting harmonic regulations. The operation and performance of the proposed circuit is verified on a 300W, universal line experimental prototype with 80V output. The measured efficiencies remain above 96% down to 20% of full load across the entire universal line range. Even at 10% of full load condition, the efficiency remains above 94%. The input current harmonics also meet the IEC61000-3-2 (class D) standard.
Nanoclay and crystallinity effects on the hydrolytic degradation of polylactides

Abstract Polylactide (PLA)–montmorillonite micro- and nanocomposites based on semicrystalline and amorphous polymers and unmodified and organomodified clays at 5 wt% content were produced by melt mixing and subjected to accelerated hydrolytic degradation over a temperature range of 50–70 °C. Degradation rate constants were higher for amorphous PLA and its composites than semicrystalline PLA and its composites as a result of increased permeation through the amorphous domains. Since the effective pH of the nanofillers and their hydrophilicity change through treatment with organomodifiers the degradation rate constants of the nanocomposites were significantly higher than those of the unfilled polymers; by contrast, those of the microcomposites were lower or slightly lower than those of the unfilled polymers possibly due to the reduction of the carboxyl group catalytic effect through neutralization with the hydrophilic alkaline filler. Although the degradation rate constants increased with increasing temperature from 50 to 70 °C, based on calculated activation energies the degradation kinetics did not differ significantly above and below the assumed T g of 58–60 °C. Higher activation energies were observed for the semicrystalline polymer and its composites. It appears that bulk hydrolytic degradation starts from the interface between polymer and fillers for all samples resulting in significant morphological differences between nanocomposites, microcomposites and unfilled polymer.
Oil Spill Response Systems of South Florida and the Country of Qatar

Both South Florida and Qatar have unique needs and requirements for oil spill response, yet both have basic needs for a contingency plan for responding to oil spills. South Florida has a diverse coastal environment that is important not only for its ecosystem but for the revenue it generates from tourism and fishing. Qatar is sitting on the world's largest natural gas fields and some larger oil fields and is one of the world's richest countries. The oil spill response system of South Florida differs in operational structure from that of Qatar. South Florida's response system is a network-based operation controlled by county or city officials, depending on the degree of the spill and availability of resources. Qatar's system is a central control operation, with primary authority and control of any oil spill response assumed by the Qatar General Petroleum Corporation (QGPC). Local industries are expected to protect their own facilities, but QGPC also responds to those spills that threaten public and governm...
Thermodynamics of the Zr–H binary system related to nuclear fuel sheathing and pressure tube hydriding

Abstract The thermodynamic database of the Zr–H system was updated using Density Functional Theory (DFT). In the present work, the first-principles calculations were performed using VASP (Vienna ab initio Simulation Package), which is based on pseudo-potentials and a plane wave basis set. The enthalpies of formation of ɛ-ZrH2, δ-ZrH2−x, and γ-ZrH were calculated at 0 K and it is shown that the formation of all three hydrides is spontaneous, under predicted PWR and CANDU reactor core electrochemical conditions.
Turning Remote-Controlled Military Systems into Autonomous Force Multipliers

Conducting military combat missions requires manpower and places our service members? lives at risk. The military has begun employing remotely controlled assets, such as unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned ground vehicles, to improve personnel safety. Despite this obvious advantage, there is one particular drawback: current unmanned systems still require one or more personnel to control each system. In some cases this takes more manpower than the manned system alternative. Thus the operator workload for a given unmanned system is high, and the operator must be engaged at all times to render the system useful. The requirement to actively focus on operating these remote-controlled systems consumes valuable human resources and lowers their situational awareness in combat environments. The benefit of these unmanned systems can be greatly increased if the demand on the operator is reduced or eliminated; there is a need for these unmanned systems to function more autonomously.
Controlling oriented aggregation using increasing reagent concentrations and trihalo acetic acid surfactants

Abstract Zinc oxide particle growth from homogenous solutions prepared with isopropyl alcohol was monitored using in situ UV–vis spectroscopy, and results show that the rate of ZnO particle growth and the final ZnO nanoparticle size depend strongly upon the concentrations of precursors and the identity of surfactants used. In addition, particle size versus time data was fit using the coarsening model and the simultaneous oriented aggregation and coarsening model in order to evaluate the effect of changing synthetic variables on the mechanism of nanoparticle growth. In general, an increase in growth by oriented aggregation with increasing precursor concentrations was observed, a result that was consistent with results from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) characterization. The increase in precursor concentrations resulted in an increase in the number concentration of ZnO nanoparticles, which resulted in a higher probability of particle–particle interactions and hence increased growth by oriented aggregation. Additionally, particle growth in solutions of trifluoro-, trichloro-, and tribromoacetate surfactants was studied, and growth by oriented aggregation followed the trend expected based on the number concentration of zinc oxide particles. Growth with trifluoroacetate was an exception, with growth by oriented aggregation substantially suppressed.
Alternative Approaches in Gene Discovery and Characterization in Alzheimer’s Disease

Uncovering the genetic risk and protective factors for complex diseases is of fundamental importance for advancing therapeutic and biomarker discoveries. This endeavor is particularly challenging for neuropsychiatric diseases where diagnoses predominantly rely on the clinical presentation, which may be heterogeneous, possibly due to the heterogeneity of the underlying genetic susceptibility factors and environmental exposures. Although genome-wide association studies of various neuropsychiatric diseases have recently identified susceptibility loci, there likely remain additional genetic risk factors that underlie the liability to these conditions. Furthermore, identification and characterization of the causal risk variant(s) in each of these novel susceptibility loci constitute a formidable task, particularly in the absence of any prior knowledge about their function or mechanism of action. Biologically relevant, quantitative phenotypes, i.e., endophenotypes, provide a powerful alternative to the more traditional, binary disease phenotypes in the discovery and characterization of susceptibility genes for neuropsychiatric conditions. In this review, we focus on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as a model neuropsychiatric disease and provide a synopsis of the recent literature on the use of endophenotypes in AD genetics. We highlight gene expression, neuropathology and cognitive endophenotypes in AD, with examples demonstrating the utility of these alternative approaches in the discovery of novel susceptibility genes and pathways. In addition, we discuss how these avenues generate testable hypothesis about the pathophysiology of genetic factors that have far-reaching implications for therapies.
U.S. Geological Survey silicate rock standards

Abstract The U.S. Geological Survey has processed six silicate rocks to provide new reference samples to supplement G-1 and W-1. Complete conventional, rapid rock, and spectrochemical analyses by the U.S. Geological Survey are reported for a granite (replacement for G-1), a granodiorite, an andesite, a peridotite, a dunite, and a basalt. Analyses of variance for nickel, chromium, copper, and zirconium in each rock sample showed that for these elements, the rocks can be considered homogeneous. Spectrochemical estimates are given for the nickel, chromium, copper, and zirconium contents of the samples. The petrography of five of the six rocks is described and CIPW norms are presented.
Engineered Recombinant Single-Chain Fragment Variable Antibody for Immunosensors

A recombinant single-chain fragment variable (scFv) antibody (designated A10B) was engineered to contain two histidines within the linker peptide used to join the scFv heavy and light chains. A piezoimmunosensor using the scFv was successfully developed. A10B scFv bound to the gold piezoimmunosensor surface were correctly oriented, retained antigen-binding activity, and coupled at high surface concentration. These results, and results obtained from an earlier study using an scFv containing a linker cysteine, suggest that the location on the linker sequence in which the amino acids were incorporated was well tolerated by the scFv and did not interfere with scFv antigen-binding activity. The scFv-modified QCM sensor was thoroughly characterized and used to specifically detect antigen in crude serum sample and had a sensitivity of 2.3 ± 0.15 nM (n = 4) with a linear range over 2.3 × 10-9−3.3 × 10-8 M. The piezoimmunosensor was also used to study the kinetics and thermodynamics of antigen/scFv antibody binding.
Semigroups that tree order sets on which they act

Characterizations are given of semigroupsS for which everyS-system is tree ordered and semigroupsS for which everyS-system is a free sum of tree semilattices.
Inducibility of NADP‐specific isocitrate dehydrogenase with endurance training in skeletal muscle

NADP + -specific isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH-NADP:EC 1.1.1.42) is primarily a mitochondrial matrix enzyme in both mammalian skeletal muscle and heart and has markedly higher activity levels than the NAD + -specific isozyme. To date, it is unknown whether ICDH-NADP activity is inducible with in vivo exercise training in locomotor or respiratory skeletal muscle. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to quantify alterations in ICDH-NADP activity in respiratory muscles (costal and crural diaphragm) and locomotor muscles (medial gastrocnemius, plantaris and soleus) following 8 weeks of treadmill endurance training
Vaccination Against Marek’s Disease and Infectious Bursal Disease III. Growth Rate of Both Turkey Herpesvirus and Infectious Bursal Disease Virus in Coinfected Cell Cultures

Titers of the turkey herpesvirus (HVT) and infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) in coinfected cell cultures, used to produce a live bivalent HVT/IBDV vaccine, were determined daily. Based on the daily titers, cells harvested either 2 or 3 days after inoculating the second virus (IBDV) into HVT infected cell cultures yielded the maximum titers for both viruses. Harvesting coinfected cell cultures on either day provided the most suitable source of the live HVT/IBDV vaccine against Marek's disease and infectious bursal disease.
Correlates of HIV risk in a random sample of street youths in San Francisco.

In a random sample of 203 street youths recruited in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco, the authors found significant differences between those who reported that they could go home if they wanted to compared to those who perceived that they could not go back home. Those who could not go home were significantly more likely to report having been away from home for more than 3 years, having run away before age 13, having been kicked out of their home, and not being in touch with their parents compared to the other group. Those who could not go home reported significantly more injection drug use, which puts them at high risk for HIV. Health care providers can identify street youths at highest risk by asking the question “Could you go back home today if you wanted to do so?”
Experimental Damage Characterization of Hexagonal Honeycombs Subjected to In-Plane Shear Loading

Experimental study on the damage of hexagonal honeycombs under in–plane shear loading does not appear to be available in the literature. In this paper, shear damage behaviors of five different hexagonal mesostructures are investigated with rapid prototyped polycarbonate (PC) honeycomb coupon samples and proper design of a fixture for shear loading. Effective shear stress-strain curves of PC honeycomb coupons are generated for each shear test and the corresponding local cell wall failure is investigated. Two different failure modes of PC honeycombs were observed primarily depending on the cell wall thickness: The PC honeycombs having a lower cell wall thickness induce the plastic post buckling, resulting in preventing propagation of initial cracks through the cell wall end up with higher plastic load bearing. On the other hand, the failure mode of the honeycombs having a high cell wall thickness is the cell wall fracture by crack propagation through wall without severe buckling.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Circadian clock disruption in neurodegenerative diseases: cause and effect?

Disturbance of the circadian system, manifested as disrupted daily rhythms of physiologic parameters such as sleep, activity, and hormone secretion, has long been observed as a symptom of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer Disease. Circadian abnormalities have generally been considered consequences of the neurodegeneration. Recent evidence suggests, however, that circadian disruption might actually contribute to the neurodegenerative process, and thus might be a modifiable cause of neural injury. Herein we will review the evidence implicating circadian rhythms disturbances and clock gene dysfunction in neurodegeneration, with an emphasis on future research directions and potential therapeutic implications for neurodegenerative diseases.
PROTEASE FROM Saccharomyces carlsbergensis: ACTIVITY ON FOOD PROTEINS

Partially purified protease from S. carlsbergensis was tested for its ability to hydrolyze several food proteins. At pH 6.0 it hydrolyzed casein well and soy proteins and acid-denatured hemoglobin to a moderate degree. However, it did not hydrolyze bovine serum albumin, egg albumen, nor collagen. Hydrolysis of succinylated casein by yeast protease was almost as rapid as the hydrolysis of casein.
Schoenberg and Mythic Conception

This article considers certain aspects of Schoenberg’s music and thought in light of non-European frameworks, with a focus on three such aspects: Schoenberg as a mythic mediating force linking the ...
A general method of systematic interval computation for numerical integration of initial value problems

A procedure is given for continuously computing and monitoring the step size to be used by a self-starting, pth-order numerical integration method to solve an initial value problem. The procedure uses an estimate of the truncation error to calculate the step size.
Disorganized care: the findings of an iterative, in-depth analysis of surgical morbidity and mortality.

Abstract Introduction Performance improvement driven by the review of surgical morbidity and mortality is often limited to critiques of individual cases with a focus on individual errors. Little attention has been given to an analysis of why a decision seemed right at the time or to lower-level root causes. The application of scientific performance improvement has the potential to bring to light deeper levels of understanding of surgical decision-making, care processes, and physician psychology. Methods A comprehensive retrospective chart review of previously discussed morbidity and mortality cases was performed with an attempt to identify areas where we could better understand or influence behavior or systems. We avoided focusing on traditional sources of human error such as lapses of vigilance or memory. An iterative process was used to refine the practical areas for possible intervention. Definitions were then created for the major categories and subcategories. Results Of a sample of 152 presented cases, the root cause for 96 (63%) patient-related events was identified as uni-factorial in origin, with 51 (34%) cases strictly related to patient disease with no other contributing causes. Fifty-six cases (37%) had multiple causes. The remaining 101 cases (66%) were categorized into two areas where the ability to influence outcomes appeared possible. Technical issues were found in 27 (18%) of these cases and 74 (74%) were related to disorganized care problems. Of the 74 cases identified with disorganized care, 42 (42%) were related to failures in critical thinking, 18 (18%) to undisciplined treatment strategies, 8 (8%) to structural failures, and 6 (6%) were related to failures in situational awareness. Conclusions On a comprehensive review of cases presented at the morbidity and mortality conference, disorganized care played a large role in the cases presented and may have implications for future curriculum changes. The failure to think critically, to deliver disciplined treatment strategies, to recognize structural failures, and to achieve situational awareness contributed to the morbidities and mortalities. Future research may determine if focused training in these areas improves patient outcomes.
Sak57, an acidic keratin initially present in the spermatid manchette before becoming a component of paraaxonemal structures of the developing tail

We have previously reported that Sak57 (for Spermatogenic cell/Sperm-associated keratin of molecular mass 57 kDa) is an acidic keratin found in rat spermatocytes, spermatids, and sperm. Sak57 displays conserved amino acid sequences found in the 1A and 2A regions of the alpha-helical rod domain of keratins in human, rat, and mouse. We now report indirect immunofluorescence, confocal laser scanning microscopy and immunogold electron microscopy data showing that Sak57 is associated with the microtubular mantie of the manchette, a transient microtubular structure largely regarded as formed by tubulin and microtubule-associated proteins. The immunocytochemical localization of Sak57 was detected with a polyclonal antiserum to a multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) containing an amino acid sequence known to be present in the 2A region of the alpha-helical rod domain. During spermiogenic steps 8-12, Sak57 immunoreactive sites were restricted to microtubular mantie of the manchette which encircles the spermatid nucleus during shaping and chromatin condensation. At later stages (spermiogenic steps 12-14), Sak57 immunoreactive sites in the spermatid head region disappeared gradually as specific immunoreactivity appeared along the already assembled axoneme of the developing spermatid tail. Immunogold electron microscopy confirmed the presence of Sak57 immunoreactivity among microtubules of the manchette and on outer dense fibers and the longitudinal columns linking the ribs of the fibrous sheath. Mature spermatids (spermiogenic step 19) displayed tails with an immunofluorescent banding pattern contrasting with the lack of Sak57 immunoreactivity in the head region. Results from this study suggest that, during early spermiogenesis, a microtubular-Sak57 scaffolding is associated with the spermatid nucleus during shaping and chromatin condensation. During late spermiogenesis, the dispersion of the manchette coincides with the progressive visualization of Sak57 in the paraaxonemal outer dense fibers and longitudinal columns of the fibrous sheath in the developing spermatid tail.
A global Newton method II: Analytic centers

This paper modifies the convergence conditions of a "back-tracking" global Newton method announced in Goldstein (1991), making them sharper and easier to apply. A new version of the Kantorovich inequalities is presented that is simple to state and prove. An application is made to the centering problem for polytopes. Based on an idea of Ye (1989), an algorithm is given for the feasibility problem of linear inequalities.
Higgs boson production in heavy ion collisions

The idea of producing neutral particles via fusion of virtual photons accompanying ultra-relaitivistic heavy ions is reviewed. In particular, the possibility that such a mechanism could provide a method for producing and detecting intermediate mass Higgs bosons (MZ ≲ MH ≲ 2MW) is discussed.
Time-Series Analysis of Eulerian Density Fluctuations in Gas Fluidized Beds

Fluctuating solids concentrations in fluidized beds, measured by capacitance probes, provide local Eulerian information on the bed dynamics. The objective of this research was to determine if time-series analysis of such measurements can determine the operating locus for the fluidized bed on a generalized fluidization regime map. Using traditional statistical analysis together with deterministic chaos theory, it is shown that the density fluctuation measurements indeed can be related to the dimensionless gas velocity and mean particle size, thus enabling location of the operational state on regime maps. This result holds promise as a means for monitoring of fluidized reactors during actual operations.
Divergent mechanisms for the dealkoxycarbonylation of a 2-(3-azetidinyl)malonate by chloride and cyanide

Abstract The reaction of dimethyl 2-(1-benzylazetidin-3-yl)propane-1,3-dioate with NaCN in wet DMSO at high temperature afforded methyl 2-(1-benzylazetidin-3-yl)acetate, whereas similar treatment with NaCl gave methyl 3-benzylazabicyclo-[3.1.0]hexane-2-onecarboxylate. These results provide additional evidence that chloride- and cyanide-mediated cleavages of esters may proceed by different mechanisms.
Electroproduction of pions from deuterons

Abstract The inelastic scattering of electrons by deuterons resulting in pion production is studied using the impulse approximation. For calculational purposes, the amplitude for the production from a single nucleon is taken from the work of Fubini, Nambu and Wataghin. Since in the experimental arrangement, only the final electron is observed, a summation has to be made over the final di-nucleon states and an integration over the pion direction. The charge and magnetic moment from factors determined from electron scattering experiments by Hofstadter are used in the present numerical computation. The cross sections obtained for the electro-production of pions from deuterons are compared with the experimental results of Ohlsen and also the ratio of the deuteron to the proton cross section is estimated.
Phase field modeling of electrochemistry. I. Equilibrium.

A diffuse interface (phase field) model for an electrochemical system is developed. We describe the minimal set of components needed to model an electrochemical interface and present a variational derivation of the governing equations. With a simple set of assumptions: mass and volume constraints, Poisson's equation, ideal solution thermodynamics in the bulk, and a simple description of the competing energies in the interface, the model captures the charge separation associated with the equilibrium double layer at the electrochemical interface. The decay of the electrostatic potential in the electrolyte agrees with the classical Gouy-Chapman and Debye-Huckel theories. We calculate the surface free energy, surface charge, and differential capacitance as functions of potential and find qualitative agreement between the model and existing theories and experiments. In particular, the differential capacitance curves exhibit complex shapes with multiple extrema, as exhibited in many electrochemical systems.
Evidence for an essential role for arginyl residues for yeast phosphoglycerate kinase

Abstract Reaction of yeast phosphoglycerate kinase with either butanedione or cyclohexanedione can result in modification of up to all 13 arginyl residues with total loss of activity; however, extrapolation to zero activity for partially modified preparations indicates that up to 7 arginyls are essential. Whereas 20 m m 3-phosphoglycerate affords partial protection of activity toward both reagents, 20 m m MgATP affords complete protection of activity and protects 2 arginyls against modification by butanedione and 1 arginyl against modification by cyclohexanedione. With butanedione the modification could be reversed with total recovery of activity, suggesting that only arginyl groups were modified, which is consistent with the amino acid analysis of the modified protein. Only at high cyclohexanedione concentrations or long reaction times was a yellow product obtained that showed loss of lysyl residues. Circular dichroism spectra show that even when all the arginyls are modified by butanedione or up to 10 modified by cyclohexanedione there is no change observed in the far or near ultraviolet, indicating that there is no detectable conformational change concomitant with modification, which is confirmed by hydrodynamic studies. It is concluded that at least one, possibly two, arginyls of yeast phosphoglycerate kinase are essential for its action on ATP.
Serious Illness in the Analyst: Transference, Countertransference, and Reality Responses:

Serious illness in the analyst has a disruptive effect on the therapeutic process. Transference and countertransference responses are highly idiosyncratic and variable, but must be dealt with effectively when the therapeutic process is resumed. Some effects are relatively brief and immediate; others become manifest only after a significant delay. This paper uses the experience of such an illness to call attention to this topic which has been relatively ignored in the psychoanalytic literature.