cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental Design Methodology Applied to the Degradation of a Cytostatic Agent the Imatinib Mesylate Using Fenton Process

This manuscript investigates the degradation efficiency of a cytostatic agent imatinib mesylate (IM) by Fenton process. The objective of the study is to determine the effect of initial concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, ferrous ion and IM on the degradation process of IM. In this context, the overall research is conducted in two stages. The first stage of experiments involves the evaluation of the experimental parameters impact on the IM removal using the factorial design; whereas the second one includes the optimization conditions for IM degradation using Doehlert design. Different concentrations of H2O2 (10–50 mmol L−1), Fe(II) (0.5–3 mmol L−1) and IM (0.045–1.7 mmol L−1) are adopted both to assess the main effects of factors and their interactions on the anticancer destruction and to establish the optimum process variables that ensure its total removal. The factorial matrix considering different combinations of factors and levels demonstrates that the concentrations of Fe(II) and IM are the most determining parameters on the removal of the target molecule. The Doehlert matrix reveals that the maximum IM abatement is predicted to be 100.59% (± 0.63) when the optimized reaction conditions are set at 30 mmol L−1 for H2O2 and 2.5 mmol L−1 for Fe(II).
The Ecuador Pediatric Spine Deformity Surgery Program: An SRS-GOP Site, 2008-2016.

Abstract Study Design Retrospective case series. Objectives The purpose of this study is to (1) describe the development of our Spinal Deformity Program; (2) assess the surgical outcomes, including health-related quality of life (HRQOL), radiographic measures, and complications; and (3) explore predictors for HRQOL outcomes. Summary of Background Data The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) is very interested in international program site development to provide safe surgical care for children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). There is a need for reporting program development and outcomes from these sites. After several years of building local relations and infrastructure, our program started performing spine surgery in 2008. Methods All operations were performed at Roberto Gilbert Elizalde Children's Hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador. At a minimum of two years and average of four years postoperatively, patients received a clinical evaluation, radiographs, and the Spanish SRS-22r questionnaire. Results Twenty-eight (74%) of the 38 children who received spine surgery between May 2008 and 2015 are included in this study. Twenty-three (82%) were female with an average age of 14 years at the time of surgery and 18 years at follow-up. The mean total SRS-22r score was 4.3 and mean percentage major curve correction was 57%. Curve location was found to be a significant predictor of postoperative SRS-22r scores with double curves having poorer scores (p = .004). Two complications were pseudarthrosis and postoperative delayed paraplegia, both of which resolved after revision surgery. No infections or other long-term complications have occurred. Conclusions The development of equitable surgical care for all children is a primary goal of the SRS. Undertaking the task to perform surgery in LMIC comes with the responsibility to monitor and maintain the highest quality. Our program was safely developed to address the surgical needs of children with good midterm HRQOL outcomes, adequate radiographic curve correction, and no permanent complications. Level of Evidence Level IV.
Imaging Substance Use and Misuse: Psychostimulants

Neuroimaging provides a dynamic window on the effects of psychoactive substances on the structure and function of human brain. As a field, neuroimaging of substance abuse is broad and includes investigation of processes involved in chronic drug effects and addiction such as craving, compulsive drug seeking, and compulsive drug use; initial drug effects that include sedative, stimulant, cognitive, and behavioral effects; and potential between-person factors relevant to substance use and misuse such as gender, family history, age, and other factors. Given this scope, this chapter has been restricted to three main topical areas: (1) overarching research questions in neuroimaging of substance use and misuse, (2) methodological issues typically encountered in the field, and (3) between-person factors that may confer a vulnerability to, or protection from, the development and maintenance of substance use and misuse. Many substances have been studied using neuroimaging methods, including alcohol, nicotine, opiates, cannabinoids, cocaine, and amphetamine. The chapter focuses on the classic psychostimulants cocaine and amphetamine, which serve as archetypal drugs of abuse because of their impact on dopamine, which is processed by the brain as highly salient and motivates the approach and acquisition of the drug [Volkow et al. (Neuropharmacology 56(1):3–8, 2009)].
Lingering Mysteries about Organizing Centers in the Belousov—Zhabotinsky Medium and Its Oregonator Model

This chapter concerns the behavior of vortices of chemical activity in batch experiments with non-oscillatory variants of the bromate-ferroin-malonic acid excitable medium. It is largely organized around putatively corresponding computations in two or three spatial dimensions (‘2D’ or ‘3D’ henceforth) with the two-variable Oregonator model. This reduced model is far superior to ‘generic’ excitable systems or ‘lambda-omega’ equations for interpretation of Belousov—Zhabotinsky experiments, but it is taken by no one as a serious quantitative model of that complex reaction, and I will neither defend it nor critique it here. My attitude here is that the chemical and numerical experiments support enough mutual analogies to make comparison and contrast interesting in a heuristic way.
Autism and Adult Sex Education: A Literature Review Using the Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills Framework

Adults on the autism spectrum report comparable levels of desire for sex and sexual satisfaction as adults who are not on the spectrum. However, there has been little empirical focus on the need for sexual and relationship-oriented education for youth on the spectrum as they transition to adulthood. In this review, we use the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills Model of sexual health behavior change as a lens through which to understand the experiences of adults on the autism spectrum. We present those insights infused with emerging data and best practices in the field. Overall, it appears clear from the extant literature that providers need to recognize the specific characteristics of autism when developing sexual education curricula. Specifically, the social communication and sensory profile of people on the autism spectrum appears to interact with access to information, motivation to engage in healthy sexual activities, and the development of skills needed to engage in healthy sexual behavior. Finally, the voice of adults on the spectrum is essential to guide the emerging understanding of healthy sexuality.
Exercise Is Medicine on Campus Programs: A Descriptive Study:

Exercise is Medicine® on Campus (EIM-OC) calls upon campuses to promote physical activity (PA) through education, outreach, assessment of PA levels, and referral programs. Twenty-eight EIM-OC super...
The Effects of the Aggregate Stock Market on Mergers and Acquisitions

We exploit changes in the aggregate stock market conditions as an exogenous shock to an individual M&A deal to explore the economic motivations behind these deals. Equity deals exposed to negative stock market returns after deal announcements are less likely to be completed and deliver lower abnormal returns for both acquirers and targets, especially when acquirers' market betas are high. In contrast, cash deals are not affected by the negative post-announcement market conditions. Further analyses indicate that synergies, rather than mispricing, are the leading motive behind deals affected by changes in stock market conditions.
2.20 – Perceptual Learning

The idea of learning and experience-dependent modification of perception can be traced back more than a century, but the underlying neural mechanisms have only recently begun to be elucidated. Owing to the rapid advances in the methodology of neuroscience and to a heightened interest in the field, profound insights have been gained into the characteristics of perceptual learning and its neural basis. The first part of this chapter summarizes the findings from psychophysical studies of perceptual learning, which have implications for the cortical mechanisms. Several important aspects of perceptual learning are highlighted, including its time course and specificity, and the roles of stimulus context and top-down control. The second part of this chapter focuses on physiological studies of cortical changes associated with perceptual learning. In particular, we will discuss the changes in early cortical areas that can account for perceptual learning and its specificity. These changes include the expansion of cortical representation; changes in stimulus selectivity and responsiveness of neurons; task-dependent modulation of neuronal responses; and shifts of cortical representation of the learned stimuli. The third part of this chapter introduces models of perceptual learning. In the last part, the possible cellular and molecular substrates of cortical plasticity are briefly discussed in the context of perceptual learning. Our primary focus is perceptual learning in the visual system, though some related findings in the other sensory modalities are considered for comparison.
Short Communication: Effects of planting density on nutritive value, dry matter yield, and predicted milk yield of dairy cows from 2 brown midrib forage sorghum hybrids

ABSTRACT Objective Our objective was to evaluate the effects of 5 planting densities (148,000, 198,000, 247,000, 297,000, and 346,000 seeds/ha) on the nutritive value, DM yield, and predicted milk yield from 2 brachytic dwarf (shortening of plants by reducing length between internodes) brown midrib-6 forage sorghum hybrids (Advanta Seeds, AF7401; Advanta Seeds, ADV F7232; Irving, TX). Materials and Methods Replicated plots were planted and harvested on the same day. At harvest, weights of whole-plant sorghum forage were obtained to calculate DM yields. A commercial laboratory (Dairyland Laboratories Inc., Arcadia, WI) analyzed nutrients and predicted ruminal NDF digestibility at 30 h using near-infrared spectroscopy. Estimated milk yield per unit of forage and per hectare were calculated using Milk2006. Summative equations were used to predict TDN and NEl. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design with a 5 (planting density) × 2 (hybrid) factorial arrangement of treatments. Results and Discussion Differences were detected between hybrids for DM, starch and NDF concentrations, NDF digestibility at 30 h, DM yield (Mg/ha), kilograms of predicted milk per megagram of DM, and kilograms of predicted milk per hectare, highlighting the importance of hybrid selection. Because of increased tillering at lower planting densities, reductions in NDF concentration and uNDF240om were observed as well as a lack of effects on DM yield and predicted milk yields, emphasizing the tolerance of brachytic dwarf brown midrib-6 forage sorghum to decreases in planting density. Implications and Applications Because of greater DM yield and predicted milk yield, Advanta Seeds ADV F7232 outperformed Advanta Seeds AF7401. Furthermore, increasing planting density above 247,000 seeds∙ha−1 may not be feasible during a summer planting in Florida as biomass yield was not increased. Due to tillering, increasing planting density above 247,000 seeds∙ha−1 may be unnecessary and production costs may be reduced with the use of these reduced densities when similar hybrids are planted during the summer in the southeastern United States and grown under irrigation.
Approach to Eosinophilia Presenting With Pulmonary Symptoms.

Eosinophilia with pulmonary involvement is characterized by the presence of peripheral blood eosinophilia, typically ≥500 cells/mm3, by pulmonary symptoms and physical examination findings that are nonspecific, and by radiographic evidence of pulmonary disease and is further supported by histopathologic evidence of tissue eosinophilia in a lung or pleura biopsy specimen and/or increased eosinophils in BAL fluid, usually >10%. Considering that there are a variety of underlying causes of eosinophilia with pulmonary manifestations and overlapping clinical, laboratory, and radiologic features, it is essential to approach the evaluation of eosinophilia with pulmonary findings systematically. In this review, we will describe a case presentation and discuss the differential diagnosis, a directed approach to the diagnostic evaluation and supporting literature, the current treatment strategies for pulmonary eosinophilia syndromes, and the levels of evidence underlying the recommendations, where available. Overall, optimal management of eosinophilic lung disease presentations are directed at the underlying cause when identifiable, and the urgency of treatment may be guided by the presence of severe end-organ involvement or life-threatening complications. When an underlying cause is not easily attributable, management of eosinophilia with pulmonary involvement largely relies on eosinophil-directed interventions, for which biologic therapies are increasingly being used.
A Smartphone-Based Technique to Detect Dynamic User Preferences for Tailoring Behavioral Interventions: Observational Utility Study of Ecological Daily Needs Assessment.

Background: Mobile health apps are promising vehicles for delivering scalable health behavior change interventions to populations that are otherwise difficult to reach and engage, such as young adults with psychiatric conditions. To improve uptake and sustain consumer engagement, mobile health interventions need to be responsive to individuals’ needs and preferences, which may change over time. We previously created an ecological daily needs assessment to capture microprocesses influencing user needs and preferences for mobile health treatment adaptation. Objective: The objective of our study was to test the utility of a needs assessment anchored within a mobile app to capture individualized, contextually relevant user needs and preferences within the framework of a weight management mobile health app. Methods: Participants with an iOS device could download the study app via the study website or links from social media. In this fully remote study, we screened, obtained informed consent from, and enrolled participants through the mobile app. The mobile health framework included daily health goal setting and self-monitoring, with up to 6 daily prompts to determine in-the-moment needs and preferences for mobile health–assisted health behavior change. Results: A total of 24 participants downloaded the app and provided e-consent (22 female; 2 male), with 23 participants responding to at least one prompt over 2 weeks. The mean length of engagement was 5.6 (SD 4.7) days, with a mean of 2.8 (1.1) responses per day. We observed individually dynamic needs and preferences, illustrating daily variability within and between individuals. Qualitative feedback indicated preferences for self-adapting features, simplified self-monitoring, and the ability to personalize app-generated message timing and content. Conclusions: The technique provided an individually dynamic and contextually relevant alternative and complement to traditional needs assessment for assessing individually dynamic user needs and preferences during treatment development or adaptation. The results of this utility study suggest the importance of personalization and learning algorithms for sustaining app engagement in young adults with psychiatric conditions. Further study in broader user populations is needed.
Rebeldía y disciplina en Prometeo y Luz de domingo, de Pérez de Ayala: el fracaso del intelectual regeneracionista en el entresiglo XIX–XX

Prometeo y Luz de domingo, de Ramon Perez de Ayala, pueden ser leidas como presentacion con ironica malicia de los proyectos del 98 y del 14, que nunca se concretan en un plan de accion efectivo. El autor plantea en Prometeo, en el personaje de Juan Perez de Setignano, un ideal titanico y agonista de regeneracion de Espana. En Luz de domingo situa en mitad de la sociedad espanola, en el interior del sistema politico, a Castor Cagigal, un intelectual auto-contenido que parece definir a la generacion del 14.
Health-Related Priorities, Perceptions, and Values of University Students: Implications for Wellness Education

Background: University wellness education can have a long-term impact on the health-related knowledge and behaviors of individuals. Moreover, individual perceptions influence the likelihood of part...
Towards Reusable Surrogate Models: Graph-Based Transfer Learning on Trusses

Surrogate models have several uses in engineering design, including speeding up design optimization, noise reduction, test measurement interpolation, gradient estimation, portability, and protection of intellectual property. Traditionally, surrogate models require that all training data conform to the same parametrization (e.g. design variables), limiting design freedom and prohibiting the reuse of historical data. In response, this paper proposes Graph-based Surrogate Models (GSMs) for trusses. The GSM can accurately predict displacement fields from static loads given the structure's geometry as input, enabling training across multiple parametrizations. GSMs build upon recent advancements in geometric deep learning which have led to the ability to learn on undirected graphs: a natural representation for trusses. To further promote flexible surrogate models, the paper explores transfer learning within the context of engineering design, and demonstrates positive knowledge transfer across data sets of different topologies, complexities, loads and applications, resulting in more flexible and data-efficient surrogate models for trusses.
Flexible Low-Cost Power-Efficient Video Memory With ECC-Adaptation

In this article, a flexible power-efficient video memory is presented that can dynamically adjust the strength of error correction code (ECC), thereby enabling power-quality tradeoff based on application requirements. Specifically, we utilize the bit significance characteristics of video data to develop a low-cost parity storage scheme that supports both hamming code-74 (ECC74) and hamming code-1511 (ECC1511). Based on this, we propose a flexible memory with three dynamic power-quality adaptation schemes (i.e., ECC74, ECC1511, and no ECC) to meet different video application requirements. Our simulation results in 45-nm CMOS technology show that the proposed memory can enable up to 35.37% power savings without a noticeable degradation in video quality, as compared to the conventional design. We also design an integrated ECC encoder/decoder that handles both ECC74 and ECC1511, which reduces area overhead. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed technique, we further develop a system-level video storage embedded test platform based on a commercial 65-nm SRAM chip, which shows that the proposed technique results in significant supply voltage reduction without noticeable video quality degradation.
Polarization-dependent optical responses in natural 2D layered mineral teallite

Multi-element layered materials enable the use of stoichiometric variation to engineer their optical responses at subwavelength scale. In this regard, naturally occurring van der Waals minerals allow us to harness a wide range of chemical compositions, crystal structures and lattice symmetries for layered materials under atomically thin limit. Recently, one type of naturally occurring sulfide mineral, ternary teallite has attained significant interest in the context of thermoelectric, optoelectronic, and photovoltaic applications, but understanding of light-matter interactions in such ternary teallite crystals is scarcely available. Herein, polarization-dependent linear and nonlinear optical responses in mechanically exfoliated teallite crystals are investigated including anisotropic Raman modes, wavelength-dependent linear dichroism, optical band gap evolution, and anisotropic third-harmonic generation (THG). Furthermore, the third-order nonlinear susceptibility of teallite crystal is estimated using the thickness-dependent THG emission process. We anticipate that our findings will open the avenue to a better understanding of the tailored light-matter interactions in complex multi-element layered materials and their implications in optical sensors, frequency modulators, integrated photonic circuits, and other nonlinear signal processing applications.
The Invisibility of Online Slavery

Sex trafficking is a form of modern slavery that strips its victims of basic human dignity. It is a global pandemic, impacting geographically and socioeconomically diverse communities. Academic scholars have responded to sex trafficking by analyzing its state as a global network, and have repeatedly argued that the Internet plays an integral role in modern sex trafficking and that the Internet is being shaped by current trafficking practice. However, books, film, and news articles often fail to recognize the intimate connection between the Internet and sex trafficking, focusing instead on the physical constraints and geographical dislocation of trafficking victims. If the Internet is referenced in these sources, it is treated as an outside actor that enables trafficking, but that is not itself influenced by its interactions with trafficking. My research consisted of analyzing the body of literature created by STS scholars and other academics and analyzing representative case studies from public media. I argue that the Internet’s ephemeral nature, its momentum as a deregulated system, and its global ubiquity all contribute to public media’s general failure to depict it as an integral component of the trafficking network. In response to these problems, which inhibit the accurate depiction of the role technology plays in sex trafficking, I propose that Internet trafficking must be made tangible in local discourse despite its inherent ephemerality, and that there must be an investigation of the effectiveness of U.S. policy regarding Internet regulation as it applies to individual privacy concerns.
Scanning micro-X-ray fluorescence elemental mapping: A new tool for the study of laminated sediment records

[1] The utility of elemental mapping by scanning X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in the study of annual laminated sedimentary records was investigated on eight annually laminated sediment types. The examples were chosen to illustrate the potential of this approach in environments dominated by terrigenous, biological and chemical deposition. Individual laminae were identifiable in elemental maps of all sediment types and were enhanced through the use of data reduction techniques (e.g., principal components transformation). Laminae were least apparent in clastic dominated systems with no seasonal changes in sediment sources. In biologically dominated systems, element maps provided insights into the composition of the varve subcomponents, related to alternating terrigenous and biologically dominated seasonal periods of deposition. Chemically precipitated structures were more prevalent than expected from visual investigations alone and may provide an underutilized paleoenvironmental signature of changing limnological conditions. Elemental mapping offers a valuable tool for the study of laminated records that complements existing techniques (e.g., SEM, digital image analysis).
Novel mechanism of transient outward potassium channel current regulation in the heart: implications for cardiac electrophysiology in health and disease.

The cardiac action potential (AP) results from the summation of ion channel activity that depolarizes and then repolarizes the plasma membrane, allowing for contraction and relaxation of the atrial and ventricular chambers. After the initial depolarization, a brief repolarization event occurs in human hearts that sets the critically important plateau phase of the AP during which calcium enters the cytosol, leading to contraction; alteration of the plateau predisposes to arrhythmia. The brief repolarization before the plateau phase results from rapid activation of voltage-gated potassium channels known collectively as transient-outward potassium channels. The K+ efflux through these channels causes a transient outward current known as I to.1 Article, see p 1655 I to may be further subdivided into a fast component I to,f and a slow component I to,s.2 Both I to subtypes activate rapidly at membrane voltages positive to −30 mV; the primary difference between them is the time to inactivation because I to,f inactivates over tens of milliseconds, whereas I to,s inactivates over hundreds of milliseconds.3 I to,f is comprised of pore forming alpha subunits Kv4.2 and Kv4.3, encoded by the KCND2 and KCND3 genes, respectively. The alpha subunit coassembles with accessory subunits KChIP2 and DPP6 to form the functional channel.4 I to,f is abundantly expressed throughout the human heart, with a greater I to,f current density present in the atria and Purkinje fibers than in the ventricular myocardium.2 The regional differential expression of I to,f within the human heart contributes to the observed differences in the morphology of AP waveforms throughout different cells in the heart. For example, atrial myocytes, where I to,f is …
Early Childhood Nutrition, Education and Fertility Milestones in Guatemala

Data on fertility milestones were collected in 1994 and linked to information collected in a trial conducted in eastern Guatemala between 1969 and 1977, to examine whether early childhood nutrition was associated with the timing of fertility milestones. In the original trial, two pairs of villages were randomly allocated to receive either a high energy, high protein supplement (Atole) or a low energy, no-protein supplement (Fresco). Mean age at follow-up was 23.47 y (n = 240). About 62% of women had experienced first birth (median age at first birth = 19.83 y). The median intervals from menarche to first intercourse and from first intercourse to first birth were 5.67 and 0.95 y; they were 1.68 and 0.06 y shorter, respectively, for the Atole group than for the Fresco group. Women who had received Atole in utero and/or during early childhood experienced earlier milestones even after adjusting for socioeconomic status (SES), education and age at the prior event. Median age at first birth was 1.17 y earlier for the Atole group. Better growth during early childhood (not severely stunted) led to earlier milestones (median age at first birth was 1.04 y earlier), primarily among women with illiterate fathers. Completion of primary school significantly delayed fertility milestones; the median age at first birth was 4.27 y later for those who completed primary school compared with those who did not (P < 0.05). In sum, improved nutrition during early childhood results in earlier fertility milestones, but the effects of schooling in delaying fertility milestones are greater in magnitude. Intervention programs that improve early childhood nutrition should be accompanied by investments in education that ensure that girls complete primary school.
Cardiac electrolytes and water in thyroparathyroidectomized rat

Abstract The effect of thyroparathyroidectomy (TPTX) on myocardial extracellular space (ECS), water and electrolytes was studied in young, female, Sprague-Dawley rats. Eight weeks after TPTX the ventricular ECS, measured in vivo with [ 35 S]sulfate, was found to be 0.219 ± 0.004 (g H 2 O/g tissue as compared to 0.177 ± 0.006 in euthyroid control rats. Measurement of ECS in the same ventricular tissue of TPTX rat by a morphometric procedure confirmed the increase: 0.209 ± 0.004 (cm 3 /cm 3 ). This increase in ECS was only relative to the size of the cellular compartment, for the absolute volume of the ECS in the ventricular myocardium fell. Thus, the relative expansion of the ECS at the expense of the cellular compartment appears to be due to a greater sensitivity of the parenchyma to the inhibitory effects of hypothyroidism on growth. This finding is compatible with a decrease in cellular size of the hearts of hypothyroid rats; a compartmental shift in water from the cellular to the extracellular compartment need not be postulated. Most or all of the enlargement of ECS is due to an expansion of the interstitial compartment. No changes in tissue water content were detected. Plasma concentrations of potassium, calcium and magnesium declined, whereas the concentrations of sodium and chloride remained constant. Depending on whether the electrolytes are predominantly intracellular or extracellular, tissue electrolyte contents showed alterations appropriate to the relative changes in compartmental volumes. Assuming homogeneous distributions of the electrolytes throughout the ECS, the calculated cellular concentrations slightly increased for sodium and potassium, decreased for magnesium, and remained unchanged for calcium and chloride.
Fetal Surgical Interventions and the Development of the Heart in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Abstract Selective left ventricular hypoplasia is a recognized feature of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). It is speculated that the herniated viscera act as a space occupying lesion that inhibit normal cardiac development. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of two separate fetal surgical interventions on subsequent cardiac development in CDH. CDH lambs were created at 80 days gestation and underwent either tracheal ligation (CDH + TL) or diaphragmatic repair (CDH + repair) at 110 days gestation. At term (141 days gestation) the hearts were harvested and fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde solution. Anatomic dissections were performed and component heart weights determined. Fresh specimens were analyzed for DNA and protein content. All weights are expressed in grams/kilogram body weight and all data as mean ± SEM. All measurements are compared to control and CDH tissues. There were seven CDH lambs, five control lambs, five CDH + TL lambs, and five CDH + repair lambs. There were no differences in body weight (kg) between CDH, CDH + TL, CDH + repair, and control littermates. CDH lambs have significantly decreased total heart (4.88 ± .25* vs 6.75 ± .49,P
Full-scale wind tunnel study of nacelle shape on cooling drag

Tests were made in the NASA-Ames 40- by 80 Foot Wind Tunnel of a wing semispan with a nacelle (no propeller) from a typical, general aviation twin-engine aircraft. Measurements were made of the effect on drag of the cooling air flow through the nacelle. Internal and external nacelle pressures were measured. It was found that the cooling flow accounts for about 13% of the estimated airplane drag and about 42% of the cooling flow drag is associated with the internal flow. It was concluded that improvements could be made by relocating both the inlet and the outlet of the cooling air.
Intestinal microvascular growth during maturation in diabetic juvenile rats

To determine if intestinal microvascular growth is impaired in diabetic juvenile animals, a segment of the terminal ileum was marked and the microvasculature of this segment observed at the age of 5 weeks and again at the age of 10-11 weeks in normal and diabetic Sprague Dawley rats. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin after the first observation period and the plasma glucose concentration exceeded 500 mg% by the age of 10-11 weeks. Microvascular growth was quantitated by measurements of the number, length, and maximally dilated inner diameters of specific arterioles and by intercapillary distances in the marked intestinal region at both ages. Although intestinal enlargement was much greater in diabetics, there was no change in the number of arterioles during maturation and intercapillary distances were equivalent in diabetic and normal rats. In normal and diabetic animals, the arteriolar length increased to match bowel elongation, however, increases in bowel and arteriolar lengths in diabetic animals were about twice that of normal rats. During juvenile maturation, the maximally dilated inner diameters of the small arterioles in diabetic animals were increased compared with their normal counterparts. Thus, arteriolar growth during maturation is characterized by changes in the length but not in the number of vessels in intestine of both normal and diabetic rats. The perfusion of about 90% more tissue by mass for each arteriole in diabetic rats is facilitated by arteriolar dilation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Tracking T-cells in vivo with a new nano-sized MRI contrast agent

Abstract Non-invasive in vivo tracking of T-cells by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can lead to a better understanding of many pathophysiological situations, including AIDS, cancer, diabetes, graft rejection. However, an efficient MRI contrast agent and a reliable technique to track non-phagocytic T-cells are needed. We report a novel superparamagnetic nano-sized iron-oxide particle, IOPC-NH 2 series particles, coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), with high transverse relaxivity (250 s −1 mM −1 ), thus useful for MRI studies. IOPC-NH 2 particles are the first reported magnetic particles that can label rat and human T-cells with over 90% efficiency, without using transfection agents, HIV-1 transactivator peptide, or electroporation. IOPC-NH 2 particles do not cause any measurable effects on T-cell properties. Infiltration of IOPC-NH 2 −labeled T-cells can be detected in a rat model of heart-lung transplantation by in vivo MRI. IOPC-NH 2 is potentially valuable contrast agents for labeling a variety of cells for basic and clinical cellular MRI studies, e.g., cellular therapy. From the Clinical Editor In this study, a novel PEG coated superparamagnetic nano-sized iron-oxide particle was investigated as a T-cell labeling agent for MRI studies. The reported particles can label T-cells with over 90% efficiency, without using transfection agents, HIV-1 transactivator peptide, or electroporation, therefore may enable more convenient preclinical call labeling studies.
Elemental Fractionation of Glass Using Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Three laser wavelengths (1064, 532, and 266 nm) were employed for laser ablation at varied laser pulse energies to study the effect of irradiance and wavelength upon analytical results for laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). Two important results were observed and are reported here: (1) the intensity of the MS signal came to a local minimum when the laser focal point was on the sample surface, and (2) elemental fractionation based upon laser wavelength and laser pulse energy was observed. For the waste glass simulant studied, ablation with 1064-nm (IR) and 532-nm (green) radiation produced elemental fractionation that relates to the melting point of the elemental oxide, whereas with 266-nm (UV) ablation the response was independent of the elemental oxide melting point. At high laser powers, ablation at 266 nm produced an elemental bias based upon the mass of the elements. These observations suggest the use of ultraviolet radiation at low pulse energies to obtain improved analytical results.
Delayed rod dark adaptation in patients with Stargardt's disease.

Abstract Twelve patients with Stargardt's dystrophy were each found to have a prolongation in rod dark adaptation. All had a normal rate of recovery during the early portion of rod dark adaptation but a selective prolongation of the later segment of rod recovery. This observation was apparent in patients with limited fundus flecks and those with extensive fundus flecks, whether or not a dark choroid was observed and independent of the presence or absence of an atrophic-appearing macular lesion. A defect within retinal pigment epithelial cells of an enzyme or intracellular transport mechanism involved in the visual pigment regeneration cycle could account for these findings.
The electrochemistry of proteins and related substances part III. Bovine serum albumin

Abstract The electroreduction of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in pH 7.4 solution was studied at the hanging mercury drop electrode by double potential step chronocoulometry and cyclic voltammetry, and at a mercury pool electrode by controlled potential coulometry. The proposed mechanism involves reduction of an adsorbed monolayer of BSA (maximum coverage 3.3 μC−2); at short times 3 or 4 disulfide bonds are reduced, the product remains adsorbed and may be reoxidized. On the coulometric time scale (hours) 8 or 9 of the total 17 disulfide bonds are broken and an insoluble product which cannot be oxidized is formed.
SERUM CONCENTRATIONS AND ALLOTYPES OF IMMUNO-GLOBULINS IN TWO LINES OF MICE GENETICALLY SELECTED FOR "HIGH" OR "LOW" ANTIBODY SYNTHESIS

Random-bred Swiss mice were selectively bred for 16 generations; selection was based on their agglutinin response to sheep and pigeon erythrocytes to produce a high and a low responder line. The serum levels of individual immunoglobulins differed significantly in these two lines before immunization. The differences in the levels of immunoglobulins were much more marked after immunization with pigeon or sheep erythrocytes. Greater differences between the two lines were noted in IgM and IgG levels than in IgA. Another remarkable finding was the presence of different immunoglobulin phenotypes in the two lines. The high responders were homozygous or heterozygous for heavy-chain linkage groups found separately in the prototype BALB/c and C57BL inbred strains. The low responders were homozygous for a heavy-chain linkage group not present in bred mice in the United States, but observed as a recombinant type among wild mice probably representing a crossover between the heavy-chain linkage groups of the prototype DBA/2 and NH inbred mice.
Recognition of ring pairs in the data analysis of Cherenkov detectors

We present a new algorithm for the identification of ring pairs in Cherenkov detectors. The approach combines linear regression methods for the construction of an appropriate reference quantity, methods from statistics for the evaluation of hypotheses and Monte Carlo simulation runs for the tuning of threshold levels.
Single and multiple scattering XAFS in BaZrO3: A comparison between theory and experiment

Abstract A comparison between theory and experiments is made for the XAFS of the Zr and Ba K-edges in BaZrO 3 . BaZrO 3 is chosen because of its simple and well-understood structure but combines metallic atoms with oxygens. It is found that adding phase corrections to the theoretical XAFS significantly improves the accuracy of the structural parameters. These corrections are changes in the core electron threshold energy E 0 for each single scattering path involving a different type of backscattering atom. This, together with the fact that no corrections were needed for pure metal Cu, suggests that the phase corrections needed are due to charge distribution effect which are neglected in the theory.
Replacement of fluorescent lamps with high-brightness LEDs in a bridge lighting application

There are many advantages that LEDs offer for use in general illumination. The use of LEDs in certain applications can provide improved energy efficiency. For example, in traffic lights in the United States, LED technology has taken over the market not only because of the energy savings as compared to standard incandescents, but also because of the reduced maintenance costs associated with bulb replacement and improved reliability. With useful lifetimes exceeding 40,000 hours or more, today's high flux LEDs can provide illumination solutions with replacement periods of 8 to 10 years or more. This paper will examine a bridge roadway lighting feasibility study which the authors' company recently undertook. The application required the LED units to reproduce the photometric performance of 64-inch (1.625m) fluorescent lamps. In addition, the LED units were required to survive a harsh, outdoor marine environment with an expected lifetime of 7 years or more. To achieve these results, a number of design elements were studied including: optimum heat dissipation in a sealed enclosure, ease of installation, and design of power supplies having expected lifetimes to match the LED light engines. Results of these studies will be discussed as well as illustrations of the designs chosen.
Application of Carbon Nanotubes in Cartilage Tissue Engineering

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are cylindrical allotropes of carbon that are nanometers in diameter and posses unique physical properties, positioning them as ideal materials for studying physiology at a single cell level. CNTs have the potential to become a very important component of medical therapeutics, likely acting as (a) drug delivery system [1], (b) existing as an interfacial layer in surgical implants [2,3], or (c) acting as scaffolding in tissue engineering [4,8]. While some studies have explored the use of CNTs as a novel material in regenerative medicine, they have not yet been fully evaluated in cellular systems. One major limitation of CNTs that must be overcome is their inherent cytotoxicity. The goal of this study is to assess the long-term biocompatibility of CNTs for chondrocyte growth. We hypothesize that CNT-based material in tissue engineering can provide an improved molecular sized substrate for stimulation of cellular growth, and structural reinforcement of the scaffold mechanical properties. Here we present data on the effects of CNTs on chondrocyte viability and biochemical deposition examined in composite materials of hydrogels + CNTs mixtures. Also, the effects of CNTs surface functionalization with polyethlyne glycol (PEG) or carboxyl groups (COOH) were examined.
The Computer Worker in the Labor Force New Occupations and Old Problems

Mail survey and interview data are used to examine the work characteristics of persons employed in the computer field. The middle- and upper-middle strata of computer workers (programmers, analysts, engineers, academics and first-line managers) were studied. Specific job features examined include job content, pay and hours worked, employment and subemployment, job autonomy, and supervision. A new concept based on job content, "techno-metier", indicating the worker's relationship to technology, is found to differentiate among workers more clearly than the use of traditional job titles.
Kidney function in adults born with unilateral renal agenesis or nephrectomized in childhood

We have evaluated the long-term prognosis in an unselected group of adult patients either uni-nephrectomized in childhood because of hydronephrosis or born with unilateral renal agenesis. Thirty-six patients aged 7–47 years were followed for 7–40 years. In 23 control subjects aged 20–47 years the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and thep-aminohippuric acid clearance (CPAH) did not change significantly with age. In patients with a single kidney the size of that kidney was larger and GFR and CPAH were higher than single kidney values in control subjects. However, in patients with a single kidney since childhood the GFR and the CPAH declined slowly but significantly during the follow-up period. Significant microalbuminuria occurred in 47% of the patients with a single kidney and was more frequent with a longer follow-up period. No patient had renal insufficiency or a marked increase in arterial blood pressure. We conclude that in patients with a single kidney since childhood the long-term prognosis is good, but the late decrease in GFR and increase in albumin excretion may indicate a moderate risk for premature renal damage.
PHYSIOLOGICAL STUDIES ON PHYMATOTRICHUM OMNIVORUM IV. EFFECT OF pH AND THE INTERACTION OF TEMPERATURE, MINERALS AND CARBON SOURCE ON GROWTH IN VITRO

The influence of pH, and the combined effect of temperature, minerals and carbon source on the vegetative growth of cotton root rot fungus.P. omnivorum were studied on both liquid and agar media. The optimum temperature and pH for growth were 28 °C and 5, respectively. There was a direct correlation between growth and substrate concentration.
Data-Driven Thermal Modeling of Residential Service Transformers

Sales of privately-owned plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are projected to increase dramatically in coming years and their charging will impact residential service transformer loads. Transformer life expectancy is strongly related to the cumulative effects of internal winding temperatures, which are a function of loading. Thermal models exist (e.g., IEEE Standard C57.91) for predicting these internal temperatures, the most sophisticated being the Annex G model. While this model has been validated with measurements from large power transformers, small residential service transformers have been given less attention. Given increasing PEV loads, a better understanding of service transformer aging could be useful in replacement planning processes. Empirical data from this paper indicate that the Annex G model over-estimates internal temperatures in small 25 kVA 65 °C rise mineral-oil-immersed transformers. This paper presents an alternative model to Annex G by using a genetic program. Empirical results using a thermally-instrumented transformer suggest that this model is both simpler and more accurate at tracking empirical transformer data. We conclude that one can use a simple thermal model in combination with data from advanced metering infrastructure to more accurately estimate service transformer lifetimes, and thus better plan for transformer replacement.
Specificity of the α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) effect on lifespan and fecundity of bdelloid rotifers

Experiments were undertaken to determine molecular specificity of Vitamin E-effects on lifespan and fecundity in four bdelloid rotifers (Habrotrocha sp., Philodina sp., Pleuretra sp., and Rotaria sp.). Results indicate that lifespan and fecundity could be significantly increased by addition of any one of three tocopherol compounds (d-α-, β, and δ-tocopherol) to the rotifer medium. Life table functions were increased the most by the d-α-tocopherol form. Improvement of these life table functions was not achieved by substitution of tocopherol analogs or other antioxidants in the rotifer medium.
Possible satellite perspective effects on the reported correlations between solar activity and clouds

[1] Recently some correlations between low cloud cover and solar activity have been reported in the literature. In this paper we show how the flux of GCR is found to correlate positively with the low clouds and negatively with higher clouds, supporting previous theoretical predictions linking atmospheric ionization by cosmic rays and cloud cover at different altitudes. All these correlations are however only marginally significant and the only strongly significant (negative) correlation is found between low and higher cloud layers. Thus, there is strong evidence that the solar-like variability in low cloud may be artificially induced by the satellite observing perspective.
Demonstration of Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering by Tunable, Plasmonic Gallium Nanoparticles

Size-controlled gallium nanoparticles deposited on sapphire were explored as alternative substrates to enhance Raman spectral signatures. Gallium’s resilience following oxidation is inherently advantageous in comparison with silver for practical ex vacuo nonsolution applications. Ga nanoparticles were grown using a simple molecular beam epitaxy-based fabrication protocol, and monitoring their corresponding surface plasmon resonance energy through in situ spectroscopic ellipsometry allowed the nanoparticles to be easily controlled for size. The Raman spectra obtained from cresyl fast violet (CFV) deposited on substrates with differing mean nanoparticle sizes represent the first demonstration of enhanced Raman signals from reproducibly tunable self-assembled Ga nanoparticles. Nonoptimized aggregate enhancement factors of ∼80 were observed from the substrate with the smallest Ga nanoparticles for CFV dye solutions down to a dilution of 10 ppm.