cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Residual Water in a Linear Quadrupole Ion Trap on the Protonation Sites of 4-Aminobenzoic Acid.

In solution, the most basic site in 4-aminobenzoic acid is the amino nitrogen, while the carboxylic acid oxygen is the most basic site in the gas phase. However, the protonation site in the gas phase has been demonstrated to depend on the ionization solvents when ionized using positive ion mode electrospray ionization (ESI). In many of these studies, collision-activated dissociation (CAD) was used to differentiate the protomers. To explore the influence of different CAD conditions on the manifested protonation site, 4-aminobenzoic acid dissolved either in 1:1 acetonitrile–water or 3:1 methanol–water was ionized by ESI and subjected to three different CAD experiments in a linear quadrupole ion trap/orbitrap mass spectrometer. Based on in-source CAD (ISCAD) and beam-type medium-energy CAD (MCAD), the proton resided on the nitrogen atom (N-protomer) when acetonitrile–water was used as the solvent system but on the oxygen atom (O-protomer) when methanol–water was used. Interestingly, a predominant N-protomer...
Implementation and perceived benefits of an after-school soccer program designed to promote social and emotional learning: A multiple case study

Social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies such as self-awareness and relationship skills are predictors of academic success, overall well-being, and avoidance of problematic behaviors. Among school-aged children, research has demonstrated that well-implemented programs teach SEL competencies and life skills (e.g., leadership, responsible decision making) that can transfer to other settings. Similar claims have been made in the field of sport-based youth development (SBYD), however, the SEL framework has not been widely applied in sport programming. Implementation, student learning, and transfer of learning in SBYD programs designed to promote SEL require further exploration. Therefore, the current study examined the implementation and perceived benefits of an after-school soccer program designed to promote SEL. Participants were six coaches and 51 students from three different sites where this program is offered. A multiple case study design was used, integrating data from customized feedback surveys, interviews, systematic observation, and field notes. Results indicated the program reflects many SBYD best practices. Although implementation varied between sites, program culture and core values were consistent. Evidence indicated students learned and applied SEL lessons in the soccer program and that transfer beyond the program was promoted. Participants were most likely to report transfer to the school setting, therefore, future studies should examine this topic more directly. Other implications for research and program implementation are discussed.
Turning the tide: targeting PfCRT to combat drug-resistant P. falciparum?

Resistance to the current first-line antimalarials threatens the control of malaria caused by the protozoan parasite Plasmodium falciparum and underscores the urgent need for new drugs with novel modes of action. Here, we present the argument that the parasite’s chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) constitutes a promising target to combat multidrug-resistant malaria. Resistance to the current first-line antimalarials threatens the control of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum and underscores the urgent need for new drugs with novel modes of action. Small-Saunders, Hagenah and Fidock present the argument that the parasite’s chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) constitutes a promising target to combat multidrug-resistant malaria.
Verifying the Use of Dress in Objectification Research

To objectify another person is to dehumanize and treat that person as an object. Objectification has interested dress scholars and some objectification scholars have acknowledged that clothing and bodies can facilitate or resist objectification. Research purposes were to determine the extent to which dress had been used to evoke objectification in experiments when objectification was an outcome and to determine if internal validity had been correctly established. Experimental objectification research was content analyzed using descriptive statistics. A database search resulted in 80 refereed empirical research articles containing 91 experiments. Dress was used to evoke objectification in 57 experiments; yet, many provided no rationale for using dress stimuli or conducted manipulation checks or stimulus pretests. These practices call into question the validity of research results and may explain inconsistent results. Opportunities for dress scholars and recommendations for teaching and for research best practices are offered.
Nonlinear stress waves in a perfectly flexible string

This paper discusses nonlinear stress-wave propagation in a perfectly flexible string obeying a quasilinear (rate-dependent) constitutive equation. Wave speeds and compatibility relations valid along various families of characteristics were determined. It was shown that the compatibility relations associated with the transverse as well as the longitudinal waves readily yield a physical interpretation when they are expressed in suitable variables and in vector form. Coding based on the present information was completed for the machine solution of a class of mixed initial- and boundary-value problems of practical interest. Computer simulation of the stress-wave interaction in the 40-foot lanyard in the Arcas 'Rocoz' system during deployment was carried out using a stress-strain relation for nylon at the strain rate of 30/second. A method for estimating the maximum tension and strain in a string during the initial loading phase is proposed.
Renal stone disease, hypercalciuria, and osteoporosis: use of thiazides and alkali for osteoporosis

Abstract Osteoporosis and nephrolithiasis are two common and overlapping medical conditions. A number of pathophysiologic mechanisms that lead to excessive urinary calcium excretion may contribute to decreased bone mass and greater fracture risk in kidney stone formers and patients with osteoporosis. In selected patients with low bone mass, treatment of hypercalciuria with thiazide diuretics and/or alkali therapy may improve bone mineral density and reduce fracture risk beyond what can be achieved with typical antiosteoporosis drugs. Thiazide diuretics may improve bone health indirectly by reducing urinary calcium excretion, but direct effects on osteoclasts and osteoblasts may contribute to the reduction in fracture risk with these agents. This chapter reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiologic mechanisms, evaluation, and management of hypercalciuria in patients with osteoporosis.
Cyber-Attacks and Mitigation in Blockchain Based Transactive Energy Systems

Power grids are undergoing major changes due to the rapid adoption of intermittent renewable energy resources and the increased availability of energy storage devices. These trends drive smart-grid operators to envision a future where peer-to-peer energy trading occurs within microgrids, leading to the development of Transactive Energy Systems. Blockchains have garnered significant interest from both academia and industry for their potential application in decentralized TES, in large part due to their high level of resilience. In this paper, we introduce a novel class of attacks against blockchain based TES, which target the gateways that connect market participants to the system. We introduce a general model of blockchain based TES and study multiple threat models and attack strategies. We also demonstrate the impact of these attacks using a testbed based on GridLAB-D and a private Ethereum network. Finally, we study how to mitigate these attack.
Impact of Insurance Type on Self-Reported Symptom Severity at the Preoperative Visit for Carpal Tunnel Release.

Purpose Prior studies evaluated the impact of insurance type on access to hand care. However, there is limited literature quantifying whether patient symptoms are worse at the time of intervention. Our primary null hypothesis was that insurance type would not be associated with Patient-Reported Outcomes Measure Information System (PROMIS) Upper-Extremity (UE), Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression scores at the preoperative visit before carpal tunnel release (CTR). Methods Between December 2016 and November 2018, patients with known carpal tunnel syndrome presenting to a tertiary academic hand clinic for the preoperative visit within 3 months of CTR, completed PROMIS UE, PF, PI, and Depression computer adaptive tests. Patient characteristics were recorded, including insurance type as commercial, Medicare, Medicaid, or workers’ compensation. Multivariable linear regression was used to determine which variables were associated with PROMIS scores at the preoperative visit before CTR. Results A total of 301 patients were included in the analysis. All PROMIS domains were significantly different by insurance type; Medicaid patients had the worst preoperative score for all domains in bivariate analysis . In multivariable linear regression modeling, commercial insurance was associated with better preoperative PROMIS UE, PF, PI, and Depression scores. Conclusions Commercial insurance is associated with significantly better preoperative PROMIS PF, PI, and Depression scores compared with other insurance types (ie, Medicaid, Medicare, and Workers’ compensation). This may be the result of a number of factors, including differences in access to hand care or life circumstances that allow for only certain individuals to seek hand care early on in the disease process. However, further research is warranted to determine more definitively why this association exists. Type of study/level of evidence Prognostic II.
Abstract IA10: Building improved personal cancer vaccines

Multiple lines of evidence have convincingly demonstrated tumor neoantigens as an important class of immunogenic tumor antigens, and have motivated the development of personalized cancer neoantigen targeting approaches. Neoantigens arise from amino acid changes encoded by somatic mutations in the tumor cell and have the potential to bind to and be presented by personal HLA molecules. Because the immune response has the capacity of addressing multiple tumor neoantigens simultaneously, immune-based therapy has a potential for directly address tumor heterogeneity. As a field, we have now successfully moved beyond the first wave proof-of-concept studies that have demonstrated the safety, feasibility and high immunogenicity of these personalized neoantigen-targeting vaccines. An imperative now is to address the challenges of discovering and optimizing the selection of antigens to target, the delivery approach, and extending this promising approach to a broader array of cancer settings. Citation Format: Catherine J. Wu. Building improved personal cancer vaccines [abstract]. In: Abstracts: AACR Virtual Special Conference: Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy; 2020 Oct 19-20. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2021;9(2 Suppl):Abstract nr IA10.
PI Techniques and Tools

In this chapter, we discuss the most commonly used tools and educational systems in PI. We discuss some of the more popular PI tools and methods and discuss how leaders in PI shaped PI throughout the country. The TOPIC course by the Society for Trauma Nursing is discussed as well as other tools that can enhance the PI process.
The Ethics of Migration: Aspiring to Just Mercy in Immigration Policies

This chapter explores the ethics of immigration and of contemporary immigration policies in Western liberal states. It puts in bold relief the moral arguments undergirding the current rancorous public debate on immigration policy globally. I argue first that by excavating the ethical principles implicit in the different poles of this debate, we might find a way forward that is consistent with principles of liberal democracy, that acknowledges the rights of individuals and states and that is fundamentally humane as well as just. I further argue, from a virtue ethics perspective, that if we start with a principle of compassion for the individual both open and closed borders can become more humane in practice. Compassion is about what the policy is and how we implement it. Both justice and mercy matter.
Supracervical hysterectomy: … A time for reappraisal

Supracervical or subtotal hysterectomy is a procedure that largely was discarded in the middle part of this century. This decision was made because of the reduction in morbidity and mortality associated with total hysterectomy, the only known and available method for the prevention of cervical cancer. This rationale, appropriate earlier in the century, has become somewhat undermined with the advent of Papanicolaou smear screening, colposcopic diagnosis, and simple outpatient therapy for preinvasive cervical neoplasia. Furthermore, some have argued that supracervical hysterectomy better preserves bladder and sexual function, and may be associated with reduced surgical and postoperative morbidity. Recently, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy has been introduced as another operative alternative with putative advantages over the procedure performed via laparotomy. However, for routine cases, the available literature does not confirm that one procedure is superior, regardless of the route of access. In selected cases, where benign conditions significantly distort the cervical anatomy complicating the dissection, supracervical hysterectomy would seem a prudent choice. It is clear that appropriately designed comparative studies are in order, to better determine the place for supracervical hysterectomy in the contemporary management of women with benign uterine disease.
Ray path-length-dependent slowness model

By introducing a new parameter, slowness deviation, a ray-path-length-dependent slowness model has been previously developed. Synthetic tests indicate that for a horizontal layered slowness structure, the new model gives a good estimate of the weighted average slowness of a ray when the rays considered cover a small range of take-off angles. When the rays considered cover a large range of take-off angles, the new model gives good estimates of the weighted average slowness for the long rays, but large errors still remain for the short rays.
Prüfmaschinen für schwingende Beanspruchung

Die Dauerprufmaschinen fur schwingende Beanspruchung sollen zur Bestimmung der Dauerfestigkeit (Schwingungsfestigkeit) an Probestaben und ganzen Konstruktionsteilen dienen. Sie mussen mit allen Einrichtungen versehen sein, die zur Aufnahme von einwandfreien Wohler-Schaubildern (vgl. Bd. II, Abschn. III B 1 b) benotigt werden. Es sind dies im wesentlichen: 1. Einrichtungen zur Erzeugung und Messung der Wechselbeanspruchung. 2. Regeleinrichtungen, die dafur sorgen, das die Grenzen, zwischen denen die Belastung schwingt, wahrend der gesamten Versuchsdauer mit genugender Genauigkeit gleichgehalten werden1. 3. Einspannvorrichtungen zur Einspannung oder Lagerung des Probekorpers in der Prufmaschine und zur einwandfreien Ubertragung der Wechselkraft auf den Probekorper. 4. Vorrichtungen, welche die Maschine beim Eintritt des Dauerbruches der Probe selbsttatig abschalten und die Anzahl der vom Beginn des Versuches bis zum Bruch ertragenen Lastspiele selbsttatig anzeigen.
Salt Marsh Linkages to Productivity of Penaeid Shrimps and Blue Crabs in the Northern Gulf of Mexico

Secondary production derived from coastal marshes of the northern Gulf of Mexico exceeds that of other regions in the United States and is exemplified by large fishery catches of penaeid shrimps (Farfantepenaeus aztecus, F. duorarum, and Litopenaeus setiferus – 66% of U.S.) and blue crabs (Callinectessapidus −25% of U.S.). We believe that this production arises from coastal wetlands, and is driven by wetland geomorphology and hydrology resulting from the delta building and wetland loss cycles of the Mississippi River. Quantitative surveys document that high densities of shrimps and blue crabs directly use northern Gulf marsh surfaces. Manipulative experiments demonstrate that such marshes provide these fishery species with increased resources for growth and with protective cover to reduce predator-related mortality. Thus, access to the marsh surface is an important component in controlling the link between secondary productivity and coastal wetlands. Marsh access is influenced by tidal flooding patterns, amount of marsh/water edge, and extent of connections between marsh systems and the Gulf. Low-elevation Gulf marshes are flooded nearly continually during some seasons and are extensively fragmented; such characteristics provide maximum access. By contrast, U.S. Atlantic coast marshes have less fragmentation and less flooding. These geomorphic and hydrologic differences coincide with differences in secondary production between the regions, e.g., marsh-derived fishery production is lower on the Atlantic coast. Despite the linkage between coastal wetlands and secondary production, the current rapid loss of wetlands in the Gulf does not appear to be causing a decline, but instead is associated with an increase in fishery productivity. This paradox may be explained by changes in access and habitat function during areal loss of wetlands. Wetland loss is accompanied by increased marsh inundation and fragmentation, expansion of saline zones, and shortened migratory routes. These processes extend the utilization of remaining marsh and support temporary increases in secondary production.
Initial results from 50mm short SSC dipoles at Fermilab

Several short model SSC 50mm bore dipoles are being built and tested at Fermilab. Mechanical design of these magnets has been determined from experience involved in the construction and testing of 40mm dipoles. Construction experience includes coil winding, curing and measuring, coil end part design and fabrication, ground insulation, instrumentation, collaring and yoke assembly. Fabrication techniques are explained and construction problems are discussed. Similarities and differences from the 40mm dipole tooling and magnet components are outlined. Test results from the first models are presented.
Ecdysteroids regulate secretory competence in Inka cells

Ecdysis, or molting behavior, in insects requires the sequential action of high levels of ecdysteroids, which induce accumulation of ecdysis-triggering hormone (ETH) in Inka cells, followed by low levels of ecdysteroids, permissive for the onset of the behavior. Here, we show that high ecdysteroid levels suppress the onset of the behavioral sequence by inhibiting the development of competence to secrete ETH. In pharate pupae of Manduca sexta, Inka cells in the epitracheal glands normally develop competence to secrete ETH in response to eclosion hormone (EH) 8 h before pupation. Injection of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) into precompetent insects prevents this acquisition of competence, but does not affect EH-evoked accumulation of the second messenger cyclic GMP. Precompetent glands acquire competence in vitro after overnight culture, and this can be prevented by the inclusion of 20E at concentrations greater than 0.1 microg ml(−1)in the culture medium. Actinomycin D completely inhibits the acquisition of competence, demonstrating that it is dependent on transcriptional events. Cultured epitracheal glands become refractory to the inhibitory effects of 20E in the acquisition of competence at least 3 h earlier than for Actinomycin D, indicating that 20E acts on an early step in a sequence of nuclear events leading to transcription of a structural gene. Our findings suggest that declining ecdysteroid levels permit a late event in transcription, the product of which is downstream of EH receptor activation and cyclic GMP accumulation in the cascade leading to ETH secretion.
The Images Used to “Sell” and Represent Retirement Communities

As spaces created with the intention of encouraging consumption through the promotion of a specific lifestyle, retirement communities' success rests partially on the images employed to promote that lifestyle. This article uses a content analysis of the promotional brochures provided to potential retirement community residents to examine the type of images used to sell retirement communities. The results show that descriptions of the physical features of and amenities offered in retirement communities are the most numerous. Images in keeping with the idea of successful aging also occur repeatedly. References to the physical decline associated with later life occur infrequently.
Prediction of Plant MicroRNA Targets

We predict regulatory targets for 14 Arabidopsis microRNAs (miRNAs) by identifying mRNAs with near complementarity. Complementary sites within predicted targets are conserved in rice. Of the 49 predicted targets, 34 are members of transcription factor gene families involved in developmental patterning or cell differentiation. The near-perfect complementarity between plant miRNAs and their targets suggests that many plant miRNAs act similarly to small interfering RNAs and direct mRNA cleavage. The targeting of developmental transcription factors suggests that many plant miRNAs function during cellular differentiation to clear key regulatory transcripts from daughter cell lineages.
Effects of channel shapes on MOSFET hot-electron resistance

Transistors with funnel-shaped channel regions are studied in terms of hot-electron effects. Experimental results indicate that funnel-shaped transistors are more resistant to hot-electron effects when operating with the wider-channel region close to the drain. It is suggested that future transistor design could take advantage of this effect in obtaining optimum hot-electron-resistant transistors.
Intracellular ionized calcium and increasing doses of lithium chloride therapy in healthy Sprague-Dawley rats

Abstract The use of lithium salts in the prophylaxis and treatment of several psychiatric and neurologic disorders continues to be well accepted despite the apparent lack of understanding regarding its mode of action at the molecular level. This lack of delineation in the mechanism of action is supported by numerous conflicting publications. Despite the lack of understanding, a role for calcium in the manifestation of lithium's action is a constant singular consensus. Intracellular ionized calcium ([Ca++]i) is involved in the proper functioning of cells because of its role in the second messenger pathway. It is therefore essential to evaluate the effect of lithium on intracellular calcium metabolism in a well-defined system. In this study, platelets loaded with Fura-2-Acetoxymethyl were used to evaluate the effect of intraperitoneally administered lithium chloride at 0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 mmol/kg body wt. on [Ca++]i. The results showed a slight relative increase in serum Ca++ that correlated well with the dose of LiCl administered to the rats. The baseline [Ca++]i were comparable in the study groups, but the response to thrombin stimulation was more pronounced at LiCl doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5/kg body wt. compared with control and rats treated with 10 mmol LiCl/kg body wt. This finding suggests a dose-dependent response of [Ca++]i to LiCl treatment. The observation may therefore explain the variations that have been reported in [Ca++]i studies with respect to LiCl therapy using different doses.
An ontology based framework for Shariah sustenance in the west

The efficient linking of endless bits of information has not led to truly mature communication, which connects the right to the right semantic place. This deficiency is further complicated by the continuous adaptability of information to each user's changing context, such as environment and objective. This phenomenon has caused greater complication within Islam, because Islamic discourses are often thousands of years old, and so have produced abundant unconnected information that lacks ontological connection. Each day the strain to link the scriptural text with everyday life is getting more difficult. Moreover, the pluralistic feature of Shariah makes it more convoluted to the lay people in the West. The framework proposed in this paper provides an automated hierarchical compilation of laws and commandments, both historical and contemporary, to develop an integral knowledge base for efficient representation and easy reasoning. Such representation and reasoning will remove the controversial shroud of Shariah by bringing transparency into the existing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The novelty and efficiency of this knowledge base lies in a series of back end processing namely semantic text mining. This approach sort concepts, enriches the existing texts and creates greater relevancy of texts. The paper attempts to abridge three different areas. First it offers a brief overview of the Shariah life cycle. This foundation set the stage for the second area of identifying the macro scope of the integrated IT framework for Shariah. Finally, it dives deep into the logical architecture of the framework.
Lack of evidence for increased operative morbidity after hepatectomy with perioperative use of bevacizumab: a matched case-control study.

Bevacizumab (bev) is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Perioperative bev is now commonly used in patients undergoing hepatic resection. Little is known, however, about the safety of perioperative bev use in the setting of hepatic resection. Computerized pharmacy records were used to identify all patients who received bev between January 2004 and June 2005. Patients who underwent hepatectomy for colorectal metastases and received bev within 12 weeks of surgery were identified and compared with a group of matched historical controls. Thirty-two patients underwent hepatic resection of colorectal cancer metastases and received bev within the specified perioperative period. Sixteen patients received bev before surgery and 24 received bev after surgery. A subset of eight patients received bev both before and after surgery. The median time between bev administration and surgery was 6.9 weeks before (range, 3–15 weeks) and 7.4 weeks after (range, 5–15 weeks). Perioperative complications occurred in 13 patients (40.6%), two of which were considered major complications. There was no statistically significant difference in perioperative morbidity and severity of complications when compared with a set of matched controls. Clinical experience thus far does not indicate a statistically significantly increased risk of perioperative complications with the incorporation of bev into pre- and/or postoperative treatment paradigms. Given the long half-life of bev and the potential for anti-VEGF therapy to impede wound healing and/or liver regeneration, we continue to favor a window of 6 to 8 weeks between bev administration and surgery.
Actinide microdistributions in the enstatite meteorites

Oldhamite is a major Th and U bearing phase in the enstatite meteorites. Oldhamite from E-6 chondrites has mean Th and U abundances of 1550 ± 80 ppb Th and 410 ± 20 ppb U, with Th/U = 3.8 ± .2. With the exception of ferroan alabandite which contains 25 ± 1 ppb U, no other Th or U enriched phases were located in the E-6 chondrites, and nearly all of the total rock Th and U can be accounted for by oldhamite. In Khairpur (E6), excess fossil fission tracks were observed in enstatite grains in contact with oldhamite which indicates the presence of ^(244)Pu in oldhamite. Oldhamite from St. Mark's (E5) and Abee (E4) also shows actinide enrichments but at levels about half the E-6 results. Niningerite in Abee contains 45 ± 5 ppb U and due to its high reported modal abundance is an important U reservoir in Abee. The U content of oldhamite from the aubrite Pena Blanca Spring is 1920 ± 100 ppb. All Th/U values measured in this study cluster tightly around a value of 4 which indicates a lack of Th-U fractionation in both oldhamite and in the enstatite meteorites, themselves. This lack of fractionation, along with the presence of ^(244)Pu in oldhamite and reported rare earth enrichments also in oldhamite, suggests that the enstatite chondrites may be well-suited for Pu-U chronology and for providing the initial Pu-U value in the early solar system.
Electrophysiological effects of paraoxon on the giant interneurons in the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana

Abstract Effects of the organophosphate insecticide, paraoxon, on the ventral grant interneurons of the American cockroach ( Periplaneta americana ) were studied by using intracellular microelectrodes. Within 5 min after paraoxon treatment, the efficacy of transmission at the cercal-to-giant interneuron synapse was markedly reduced or blocked, and alternating waves of depolarization and repolarization were initiated in the giant interneurons. Superimposed on these waves were high-frequency bursts of overshooting and nonovershooting spikes. Comparisons of paraoxon-induced activity in the cell body and at sites along the axon of the giant interneurons indicated that the cyclical waves, as well as high-frequency spikes, originated in the sixth abdominal ganglion rather than at more anterior sites. The effects of paraoxon were not mimicked by the application of exogenous acetylcholine, the latter causing a sustained depolarization and repetitive spiking of giant interneurons but not cyclical bursting or alternations in membrane potential. Although the precise origin of the paraoxon-induced activity is not known, several lines of evidence (e.g., results from chronic deafferentation experiments) suggest that cholinergic inputs from cercal afferent fibers are not involved in initiating the bursting.
Treatment and Outcomes for Anxiety Disorders Among Children and Adolescents: A Review of Coping Strategies and Parental Behaviors

This article reviews the current literature on the treatment of anxiety disorders in children and adolescents and describes the factors that are essential to address in treatment. Coping deficits and parental behaviors are highlighted as factors that contribute to anxiety in youth. Interventions for anxious youth are described, with particular emphasis on cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders. Finally, a review of the longitudinal course of anxiety and suggestions for future directions in treatment and research are provided.
Rapid Oxidation of Geothermal Arsenic(III) in Streamwaters of the Eastern Sierra Nevada

Arsenic redox cycling was examined in source waters of the Los Angeles Aqueduct, specifically at Hot Creek, a tributary of the Owens River. Elevated arsenic concentrations in Hot Creek result from geothermal inputs. Total arsenic and As(III) concentrations were determined in the creek and in hot spring pools along its banks. Samples were processed in the field using anion-exchange columns to separate inorganic As(III) and As(V) species. Downstream of the geothermal inputs, decreasing contribu tions of As(III) to total arsenic concentrations indicated rapid in-stream oxidation of As(III) to As(V) with almost complete oxidation occurring within 1200 m. Based on assumed plug flow transport and a flow velocity of about 0.4 m/s, the pseudo-first-order half-life calculated for this reaction was approximately 0.3 h. Conservative transport of total dissolved arsenic was observed over the reach. Pseudo-first-order reaction rates determined for As(III) oxidation in batch studies conducted in the field with aquatic macrophytes and/or macrophyte surface matter were comparable to the in-stream oxidation rate observed along Hot Creek. In batch kinetic studies, oxidation was not observed after sterile filtration or after the addition of antibiotics, which indicates that bacteria attached to submerged macrophytes are mediating the rapid As(III) oxidation reaction.
HYDROGEN TRAPPING IN PRECIPITATION-HARDENED ALLOYS

The ingress of hydrogen in three precipitation-hardened alloys (Inconel 718, Incoloy 925, and 18 Ni maraging steel) exposed to an acetate electrolyte (1 mol L−1 HAc/1 mol L−1 NaAc where Ac = acetate) was studied using a potentiostatic pulse technique. The data were shown to fit a diffusion/trapping model under interface control, and values were determined for the irreversible trapping constants (k) and the flux of hydrogen into the alloys. The density of irreversible trap defects in Inconel 718 and Incoloy 925 was calculated from k and found to be in excellent agreement with the concentration of NbTi(CN) and TiC particles, respectively. The maraging steel was characterized by two trapping constants; one is associated with quasi-irreversible traps that saturate, leaving only irreversible traps thought to be TiC/Ti(CN) particles. The irreversible trapping constants for these alloys are consistent with their relative susceptibilities to hydrogen embrittlement. Moreover, a comparison of the trapping constants with those for AISI 4340 steel and two other nickel-base alloys (Monel K-500 and MP35N) indicates that a strong correlation exists between hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility and trapping capability over all the alloys.
Static versus dynamic fluctuations in the one-dimensional extended Hubbard model

The extended Hubbard Hamiltonian is a widely accepted model for uncovering the effects of strong correlations on the phase diagram of low-dimensional systems, and a variety of theoretical techniques have been applied to it. In this paper the world-line quantum Monte Carlo method is used to study spin, charge, and bond order correlations of the one-dimensional extended Hubbard model in the presence of coupling to the lattice. A static alternating lattice distortion (the ionic Hubbard model) leads to enhanced charge density wave correlations at the expense of antiferromagnetic order. When the lattice degrees of freedom are dynamic (the Hubbard-Holstein model), we show that a similar effect occurs even though the charge asymmetry must arise spontaneously. Although the evolution of the total energy with lattice coupling is smooth, the individual components exhibit sharp crossovers at the phase boundaries. Finally, we observe a tendency for bond order in the region between the charge and spin density wave phases.
Circulating Interleukin-18 as a Biomarker of Total-Body Radiation Exposure in Mice, Minipigs, and Nonhuman Primates (NHP)

We aim to develop a rapid, easy-to-use, inexpensive and accurate radiation dose-assessment assay that tests easily obtained samples (e.g., blood) to triage and track radiological casualties, and to evaluate the radioprotective and therapeutic effects of radiation countermeasures. In the present study, we evaluated the interleukin (IL)-1 family of cytokines, IL-1β, IL-18 and IL-33, as well as their secondary cytokines’ expression and secretion in CD2F1 mouse bone marrow (BM), spleen, thymus and serum in response to γ-radiation from sublethal to lethal doses (5, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 12 Gy) at different time points using the enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA), immunoblotting, and cytokine antibody array. Our data identified increases of IL-1β, IL-18, and/or IL-33 in mouse thymus, spleen and BM cells after total-body irradiation (TBI). However, levels of these cytokines varied in different tissues. Interestingly, IL-18 but not IL-1β or IL-33 increased significantly (2.5–24 fold) and stably in mouse serum from day 1 after TBI up to 13 days in a radiation dose-dependent manner. We further confirmed our finding in total-body γ-irradiated nonhuman primates (NHPs) and minipigs, and demonstrated that radiation significantly enhanced IL-18 in serum from NHPs 2–4 days post-irradiation and in minipig plasma 1–3 days post-irradiation. Finally, we compared circulating IL-18 with the well known hematological radiation biomarkers lymphocyte and neutrophil counts in blood of mouse, minipigs and NHPs and demonstrated close correlations between these biomarkers in response to radiation. Our results suggest that the elevated levels of circulating IL-18 after radiation proportionally reflect radiation dose and severity of radiation injury and may be used both as a potential biomarker for triage and also to track casualties after radiological accidents as well as for therapeutic radiation exposure.
Hybrid control strategies for a five-finger robotic hand

Abstract This paper presents a hybrid controller of soft control techniques, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and fuzzy logic (FL), and hard control technique, proportional-derivative (PD), for a five-finger robotic hand with 14-degrees-of-freedom (DoF). The ANFIS is used for inverse kinematics of three-link fingers and FL is used for tuning the PD parameters with 2 input layers (error and error rate) using 7 triangular membership functions and 49 fuzzy logic rules. Simulation results with the hybrid of FL-tuned PD controller exhibit superior performance compared to PD, PID and FL controllers alone.
N-glycosylation site mapping of human serotransferrinby serial lectin affinity chromatography, fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry, and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Abstract This report describes the N-glycosylation site mappingof human serotransferrin (h-STF). Reduced and S-carboxymethylated h-STF was digested with trypsin or chymotrypsin. Glycopeptides in the proteolytic digests were isolated by serial concanavalin A (Con A), Sambucus nigra agglutinin (SNA), and Phaseolus vulgaris leukoagglutinin (LPHA) affinity chromatography and subjected to preliminary analysis by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The glycopeptide fractions were then individually digested with N-glycanase. One part of the digest of each fraction was analyzed by fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) to identify the peptide sequences of the glycosylation sites. The other part was used to isolate the oligosaccharide by the corresponding lectin affinity chromatography and to characterize the structures of the isolated oligosaccharides by 1H NMR spectroscopy and FAB-MS. The oligosaccharides in the Con A-bound fraction were shown to have bi-α(2→6)-sialyl, diantennary structures. The SNA-bound fraction was shown to contain trisialyl, triantennary structures. Di- and triantennary oligosaccharides were found to occur on each of the two N-glycosylation sites of h-STF (Asn413 and Asn611) in the ratio of ∼85:15. The SNA-bound glycopeptides were further fractionated by LPHA affinity chromatography. Two different oligosaccharides were characterized, namely, a trisialyl2,4-triantennary and a trisialyl2,6-triantennary glycan. The ratio of 2,4-triantennary vs 2,6-triantennary oligosaccharides attached to glycosylation site Asn413 was found to be ∼5:1, whereas the two isomeric triantennary oligosaccharides were found to be attached to glycosylation site Asnell in the ratio ∼1:1.
Superoxide enhances tubuloglomerular feedback by constricting the afferent arteriole

Superoxide enhances tubuloglomerular feedback by constricting the afferent arteriole. Background Superoxide (O 2 − ) has been shown to augment tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) both in vivo and in vitro by scavenging nitric oxide (NO) in the macula densa (MD). We hypothesized that in addition to this mechanism O 2 − potentiates TGF by acting directly on the afferent arteriole (Af-Art). Methods Microdissected Af-Arts and adherent tubular segments containing the MD were simultaneously microperfused in vitro, maintaining Af-Art pressure at 60 mm Hg. TGF response was determined by measuring changes in Af-Art diameter while increasing NaCl in the MD perfusate from 11/10 to 81/80 mmol/L Na/Cl. Results To determine whether O 2 − acts at the MD in the absence of MD NO, we inhibited MD nNOS with 7-nitroindazole (7-NI) and added Tempol to the lumen. When 7-NI was added to the MD lumen, it increased TGF from 2.3 ± 0.2 to 4.2 ± 0.2 μm ( P 2 − has any effect via the Af-Art in the absence of MD NO, we inhibited MD nNOS with 7-NI and added Tempol to the bath to scavenge O 2 − in the Af-Art. Adding Tempol to the bath with 7-NI in the MD lumen reduced TGF from 3.9 ± 0.3 to 2.8 ± 0.5 μm ( P 2 − scavenging NO production by the endothelium, we repeated the experiment in Af-Arts with damaged endothelium and found that adding Tempol to the bath lowered TGF from 3.4 ± 0.9 to 1.2 ± 0.6 μm ( P Conclusion We concluded that it is O 2 − rather than H 2 O 2 that enhances TGF response, both directly by constricting the Af-Art and indirectly by scavenging NO in the MD.
Primal interface formulation for coupling multiple PDEs: A consistent derivation via the Variational Multiscale method

Abstract This paper presents a primal interface formulation that is derived in a systematic manner from a Lagrange multiplier method to provide a consistent framework to couple different partial differential equations (PDE) as well as to tie together nonconforming meshes. The derivation relies crucially on concepts from the Variational Multiscale (VMS) approach wherein an additive multiscale decomposition is applied to the primary solution field. Modeling the fine scales locally at the interface using bubble functions, consistent residual-based terms on the boundary are obtained that are subsequently embedded into the coarse-scale problem. The resulting stabilized Lagrange multiplier formulation is converted into a robust Discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method by employing a discontinuous interpolation of the multipliers along the segments of the interface. As a byproduct, analytical expressions are derived for the stabilizing terms and weighted numerical flux that reflect the jump in material properties, governing equation, or element geometry across the interface. Also, a procedure is proposed for automatically generating the fine-scale bubble functions that is inspired by a performance study of residual-free bubbles for the interface problem. A series of numerical tests confirms the robustness of the method for solving interface problems with heterogeneous elements, materials, and/or governing equations and also highlights the benefit and importance of deriving the flux and stabilization terms.
Impact of antibodies against human leukocyte antigens on long-term outcome in pediatric heart transplant patients: an analysis of the United Network for Organ Sharing database.

Objectives Controversy exists regarding the importance of circulating antibodies as determined by panel-reactive antibody screening as a risk factor for graft failure in pediatric patients undergoing heart transplantation. This study sought to determine the association of elevated anti-human leukocyte antibodies with long-term survival in pediatric heart transplant patients. Methods The United Network for Organ Sharing registry was queried for pediatric patients (aged Results Panel-reactive antibodies were obtained before transplantation from 3534 patients, median age 4 years (interquartile range 0–12 years). Most, 2711 (77%), had no detectible panel-reactive antibodies, 436 (12%) had panel-reactive antibodies of 1% to 10%, and 387 (11%) had panel-reactive antibodies greater than 10%. Patients with panel-reactive antibodies greater than 10% were more likely to be older ( P = .04), have congenital heart disease ( P P = .006). Patients with panel-reactive antibodies greater than 10% had significantly worse graft survival and patient survival than did patients with undetectable panel-reactive antibodies and panel-reactive antibodies of 1% to 10% ( P P = .04 and P = .02, respectively). Conclusions Elevated panel-reactive antibodies are independently associated with worse long-term graft survival in pediatric patients undergoing heart transplantation. Further study is needed to determine the optimal management of this high-risk population.
An investigation of hemispheric specialization and visual event related potentials in discriminations of line length

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to examine possible hemispheric differences in discriminations of line length and to determine whether the visual event related potential (ERP) recorded from over left and right hemispheres was related to performance. Twelve right-handed subjects participated on each of 2 separate days. The visual ERPs were derived from left occipital (O 1 ) and right occipital (O 2 ) placements. Eye blinks and vertical and lateral eye movements were also monitored. A single vertical 1.0 cm line (Standard) was displayed for 40 ms and was followed 2 s later by either a 0.9 cm, 1.0 cm or 1.1 cm (Comparison) line (also 40 ms). Subjects were asked to judge whether the second of the lines (Comparison) was “shorter” or “longer” than the first. Stimuli appeared at the center of a screen or at 1° 24′ to the left and right of central fixation. Accuracy of line length judgements were similar in all 3 visual fields indicating a lack of hemispheric performance asymmetry for this type of discrimination task. In addition, there was no evidence of hemispheric asymmetry in the ERPs. The ambiguous discrimination involving the 1.0 cm standard and comparison lines seems to have influenced P3 latencies at both hemispheres. Namely, P3 latency was significantly longer in response to the 1.0 cm line than to the 0.9 cm or 1.1 cm lines. We propose that the ambiguous discrimination required a greater time for simulus evaluation and that this was reflected in the delayed P3 latencies.
QUANTITATIVE INHIBITION OF PROGESTERONE BY ESTROGENS IN DEVELOPMENT OF DECIDUOMATA1

IT HAS been known since the observation of Loeb (1907) that the properly sensitized uterine endometrium in laboratory rodents responds to a traumatic stimulus with a rapid local proliferation initiating the maternal portion of the placenta. Since this discovery, many workers have shown that estrogen tends to inhibit the reaction. In a review on estrogen-progesterone interactions on the uterus, Courrier (1950) has performed a commendable task in summarizing the literature to date. In quantitating the inhibitory action of several estrogens on progesterone in the decidual reaction, we have used the ovariectomized pseudo-pregnant rat. For this purpose, it was necessary to determine the proper amount of progesterone required to obtain a deciduoma comparable to that elicited in the intact animal. After determining the amount of progesterone required to duplicate a normal response,
Polyaniline: conformational changes induced in solution by variation of solvent and doping level

Abstract The reduced viscosity of mixtures of polyaniline (emeraldine base, EB) and d,l-camphorsulfonic acid (HCSA) in solutions of m-cresol or chloroform (or in mixtures of these solvents) was investigated. Viscosity measurements as a function of (a) increasing m-cresol content in the mixed solvent for a fully protonated ‘EBH+/CSA−’ polymer, and (b) increasing protonation level of EB by increasing amounts of HCSA in m-cresol, indicate that the fully protonated polymer adopts a maximized expanded molecular conformation in a good solvent such as m-cresol. These results suggest that the greatly different conductivities obtained for ‘EBH+/CSA−’ films cast from m-cresol or chloroform solutions result primarily from their different molecular conformations in these solvents.
Diagnostic room-air pulse oximetry: effects of smoking, race, and sex ☆ ☆☆

Abstract Objective We sought to determine the distribution of oximetry (Spo 2 ) values in awake, asymptomatic adults and the effect of personal characteristics on these values. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, we sampled oximetry readings in awake, asymptomatic adults in an emergency department setting. Personal characteristics were analyzed using logistic regression, with lower oximetry readings, defined by the 20th percentile, as the dependent variable. Results Of 871 eligible subjects, 50 (5.7%) had an Spo 2 value less than 97%, and 13 (1.5%) had an Spo 2 value less than 96%. Lower readings were associated with the following characteristics (odds ratio with 95% confidence interval): male sex, 3.8 (2.5-5.6); age ≥60 years, 2.4 (1.3-4.5); white race, 5.3 (3.6-7.8); obesity, 3.2 (2.1-4.8); history of asthma, 3.2 (1.6-6.2). Smoking was not associated with lower Spo 2 values. Conclusion Room-air Spo 2 values less than 97% are rare in asymptomatic, awake adults. White race and male sex are associated with lower Spo 2 readings.