cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unveiling decaying mechanism through quantitative structure-activity relationship in electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract Understanding the decaying mechanism in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is critical to establishing a stable electrolyte system. Despite the advent of various novel electrolyte solvents designated for high-voltage LIBs, their working principles are not fully understood. Currently, oxidative decomposition of electrolytes is believed to be the major cause of capacity fade, and tremendous effort has been devoted to discovering a new electrolyte with enhanced anodic stability. However, the oxidative decomposition process cannot solely explain the rapid decay of some electrolyte systems with intrinsic high anodic stability when used with a high-nickel layered oxide cathode such as LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 (NMC622). In this report, a study of the quantitative structure-activity relationship was conducted to deepen the mechanistic understanding of the decay in high-voltage LIBs. The results obtained from the newly introduced molecular pair analysis and linear free-energy relationship (LFER) studies were highly consistent with the solvation-involved decaying mechanism in a high-nickel layered oxide cathode cycling at high voltage (> 4.5 V vs. Li/Li+). There was no evidence correlating the solvation ability of electrolyte solvents with the decay of a high-nickel layered oxide cathode cycling at a relatively low voltage (
COVID-19 pandemic response varies by clinical trial sponsor type

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted millions of lives globally. To learn more about this disease and find potential diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventative products, the healthcare community has initiated a staggering number of clinical trials. Methods: ClinicalTrials.gov was reviewed to determine if trial sponsor type had a relationship to time to COVID-19 response, which was defined as the date from disease discovery in Wuhan, China to ClinicalTrials.gov study “First Posted” date. Results: A total of 673 United States (US) sponsored, interventional study listings were retrieved, of which 293 (43.5%) were Industry-sponsored, 349 (51.9%) were Academic sponsored, and 31 (4.6%) were Other sponsor types. Of the Academic studies, 181 (51.9%) were Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) hubs. The average response time for all sponsor types was 189 days, with Academic sponsors having the shortest average response time of 172.6 days (P < 0.001). CTSA hubs had a significantly (P < 0.001) shorter average response time (168.1 days) compared to all other sponsor types (197.4 days). However, while shorter in duration by 9.4 days, response time was not significantly different from non-CTSA sponsors (177.5 days; P = 0.238). Additionally, ANOVA indicated significant relationships (P < 0.001) between funding type, study phase, number of sites, and enrollment size on response time. Conclusions: Studies posted with the shortest response time were Academic-sponsored trials and included smaller sized investigations of repurposed approved or investigational drugs for the treatment of COVID-19 symptoms. A small second wave of study postings occurred approximately 4 months later, and included small, unique therapies targeting prevention or treatment of COVID-19.
NMDA Receptor and Opioid Analgesic Tolerance

Opioids, the wonderful analgesics, remain the mainstay in the clinical management of moderate to severe pain. However, development of analgesic tolerance and increase in pain sensitivity are some of the major concerns following opioid treatment. Studies suggest that NMDA receptor-mediated intracellular events play a role in mediating these effects. Moreover, NMDA receptor antagonists effectively prevent and gradually reverse opioid analgesic tolerance. Collectively, these studies unfold the involvement of NMDA receptor in opioid tolerance.
Strategies for Support: Black Women Faculty Career Advancement at Historically Black Colleges and Universities:

Although there is an abundance of scholarship about the challenges presented to Black women faculty at Predominantly White Institutions, the career advancement of Black women faculty at Historicall...
5-Iodo-2-Pyrimidinone-2′-Deoxyribose (IPdR, NSC-726188) pharmacokinetic study in F344 rats

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 47, 2006 579 The purpose of this study was to generate non-clinical PK information for IPdR, a pro-drug for the radiosensitizer 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine (IUdR). Male and female (M/F) F344 rats (10/sex/group), 9 to 11 weeks of age, were administered IPdR (NSC-726188) p.o. for 28 days at dosages of 1200 mg/m2/day (0.2 g/kg/day) or 6000 mg/m2/day (1.0 g/kg/day). The dosing volume was 10 mL/kg. Serial blood samples were collected at specified time points after dosing on Days 1 and 28 (two samples/time point/sex/dosage group) and the plasma analyzed for IPdR and IUdR using a validated liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detection (LC-MS) method over a concentration range of 0.05 to 2 μg/mL (0.148 to 5.92 μM for IPdR, and 0.141 to 5.65 μM for IUdR). A one-compartment model with no lag phase and first order absorption and elimination were used to obtain a best fit curve for IPdR and noncompartmental analysis (NCA) was used to obtain a best fit curve for IUdR. For IPdR, absorption rate constant and half-life, Tmax, and apparent clearance (CL_F) parameters were similar for all dosage groups and sexes, following single and repeated administrations with overall mean (± sd) values of 0.0306 ± 0.018 min-1, 29.5 ± 16.0 min, 86.3 ± 27.8 min, and 0.705 L/min/m2, respectively. Predicted Cmax, apparent volume of distribution (V_F), and elimination half-lives were also similar for M/F following single and repeated administrations with overall mean (± sd) values of 21.9 ± 3.7 μM, 100 L/m2, and 124.0 ± 14.0 min for the 1200 mg/m2 group and 50.5 ± 4.9 μM, 300 L/m2, and 294.2 ± 137.9 min for the 6000 mg/m2 group, respectively. While AUC values were generally proportional to dosage, Day 1 AUCs were greater than Day 28 AUCs for a given dosage group. For IUdR, observed Cmax values were similar across all groups with overall mean (± sd) values of 3.12 ± 0.79 μM on Day 1 and 1.37 ± 0.52 μM on Day 28. Tmax generally occurred within 15 min of dosing. IUdR elimination half-lives on Day 1 were 3.4, 5.7, 5.0, and 8.3 hours and on Day 28 were 9.4, 6.7, 4.4, and 27.1 hours for the male and female 1200 and 6000 mg/m2 dosage groups, respectively. The IUdR Day 1 AUC values were similar for both males and females in a given dosage group. Variability precluded reliable interpretation of Day 28 IUdR AUC values. In summary, there were no sex-dependent effects observed, the absorption and elimination kinetics were first-order over the dose range studied, and repeated administration appeared to enhance elimination of IPdR, based on the decrease in AUC from Day 1 to Day 28. [Supported by NCI contract N01-CM-42200.] Page # of 1
Effects of thymol and diphenyliodonium chloride against Campylobacter spp. during pure and mixed culture in vitro

Aims To determine if the purported deaminase inhibitors diphenyliodonium chloride (DIC) and thymol reduce the growth and survivability of Campylobacter. Methods and results Growth rates of Campylobacter jejuni and Camp. coli were reduced compared to unsupplemented controls during culture in Muellar-Hinton broth supplemented with 0.25 micromol DIC or thymol ml(-1) but not with 0.01 micromol monensin ml(-1) or 1% ethanol. Recovery of Camp. jejuni and Camp. coli was reduced >5 log(10) CFU from controls after 24 h pure culture in Bolton broth supplemented with 0.25 or 1.0 micromol DIC ml(-1) or with 1.0 micromol thymol ml(-1). Similarly, each test Campylobacter strain was reduced >3 log(10) CFU from controls after 24 h mixed culture with porcine faecal microbes in Bolton broth supplemented with 0.25 or 1.0 micromol DIC ml(-1) or with 1.0 micromol thymol ml(-1). Treatments with 0.25 micromol thymol ml(-1), 0.01 micromol monensin ml(-1) or 1% ethanol were less effective. Ammonia production during culture or incubation of cell lysates was reduced by 0.25 or 1.0 micromol DIC ml(-1) but only intermittently reduced, if at all, by the other treatments. Conclusions Diphenyliodonium chloride and thymol reduced growth, survivability and ammonia production of Camp. jejuni and Camp. coli. Significance and impact of the study Results suggest a potential physiological characteristic that may be exploited to develop interventions.
Erlenmeyer–Plöchl azlactone synthesis

Formation of 5-oxazolones (or “azlactones”) by intramolecular condensation of acylglycines in the presence of acetic anhydride.
Sensitivity of the (Na+ + K+)-ATPase to state-dependent inhibitors: Effects of digitonin and triton X-100

Treatment of a purified (NA+ + 5+)-ATPase preparation from dog kidney with digitonin reduced enzymatic activity, with the (Na+ + k+)-atpase reaction inhibited more than the K+-phosphatase reaction that is also catalyzed by this enzyme. Under the usual assay conditions oligomycin inhibits the (Na+ + k+)-atpase reaction but not the K+-phosphatase reaction; however, treatment with digitonin made the K+-phosphatase reaction almost as sensitive to oligomycin as the (Na+ + k+)-atpase reaction. The non-ionic detergents, Triton X-100, Lubrol WX and Tween 20, also conferred sensitivity to oligomycin on the K+-phosphatase reaction (in the absence of oligomycin all these detergents, unlike digitonin, inhibited the K+-phosphatase reaction more than the (Na+ + k+)-atpase reaction). Both digitonin and Triton markedly increased the K0.5 for K+ as activator of the K+-phosphatase reaction, with little effect on the K0.5 for K+ as activator of the (Na+ + k+)-ATpase reaction. In contrast, increasing the K0.5 for K+ in the K+-phosphatase reaction by treatment of the enxyme with acetic anhydride did not confer sensitivity to oligomycin. Both digitonin and Triton also increased the inhibition of the K+-phosphatase reaction by ATP and increased the inhibition by inorganic phosphate and vanadate. These observations are interpreted as digitonin and Triton favoring the E1 conformational state of the enzyme (manifested by sensitivity to oligomycin and a greater affinity for ATP at the low-affinity substrate sites), as opposed to the E2 state (manifested by insensitivity to oligomycin, greater sensitivity to phosphate and vanadate, and a lower K0.5 for K+ in the K+-phosphatase reaction). In addition, digitonin blocked activation of the phosphatase reaction by Na+ plus CTP. This effect is consistent with digitonin dissociating the catalytic subunits of the enzyme, the interaction of which may be essential for activation by Na+ plus nucleotide.
Beta cage: A new, large-area multi-wire screening detector for surface beta contamination

We report on a design study for a new, dedicated, low‐radioactive‐background screening detector for low‐energy beta‐emitting contamination on surfaces. The detector, a large‐area gaseous detector with multi‐wire proportional readout, has sufficient sensitivity to screen materials at the level needed for the proposed SuperCDMS 1 ton dark matter experiment. Such capability does not currently exist. This detector would have additional applications in low‐radioactive‐background physics experiments, and radioactive trace analysis, such as 14C dating.
p27Kip1 localizes to detergent-insoluble microdomains within lymphocyte membranes.

Low levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1 are associated with poor prognosis in cancer. It is unclear whether this is related strictly to p27Kip1-mediated cell cycle inhibition or to other, possibly extranuclear, roles of this protein. In this study, we examined p27Kip1 expression in quiescent and activated lymphocytes. T-cell membranes have been shown to possess sphingolipid and cholesterol-rich microdomains that are insoluble in non-ionic detergents. These “rafts” provide a scaffold for signaling proteins. Signal transduction coincides with coalescence of these microdomains into larger complexes. Localization of p27Kip1 was studied by electron and confocal microscopy. Association of p27Kip1 with membrane microdomains in unstimulated and stimulated lymphocytes was determined using Western blots analysis of isolated membranes variably treated with detergents. We demonstrated that p27Kip1 was present in clusters associated with the plasma membrane in normal lymphocytes. The solubility profile of p27Kip1 in isolated membranes indicated that it was localized to raft structures. When lymphocytes were stimulated, however, p27Kip1 was excluded from aggregated raft complexes. This study identifies, for the first time, the localization of p27 within a membrane microdomain associated with signaling. Because some cell surface signaling complexes lose p27Kip1 upon cellular activation, p27Kip1 may play a functional role in modulating membrane signaling.
ASe der Biologie

In 52 und 53 wird ein AS aufgestellt, das ein kleiner Teil (mit einigen Modifikationen) desjenigen AS ist, das Woodger [Biology] fur gewisse Grundbegriffe der Biologie, besonders der Genetik, aufgebaut hat. Dieser Paragraph enthalt den ersten Teil, der sich mit Dingen im allgemeinen befast, noch nicht spezialisiert fur Biologie. Dieses AS kann auch fur manche andere Gebiete als Grundlage verwendet werden. Im nachsten Paragraphen wird dieses AS erweitert zu einem AS mit gewissen biologischen Grundbegriffen. (52a und b sind in Formulierung A lesbar nach 17, in Formulierung C nach 35.)
Heavy Quarkonia: Recent Results from CLEO

Before it stopped data taking in 2008, CLEO had accumulated a large amount of e+e- data in the bottomonium and charmonium regions. These data have led to valuable contributions in the spectroscopy of both |ccbar> and |bbbar> quarkonia, and their continuing analysis is leading to new physics results. In this presentation I want to describe some of the results obtained since HADRON 2009. More than a dozen papers on spectroscopy have been published since then, and my choice for this time-limited presentation is necessarily a subjective one.
Monitoring for GE Reflux: Is Normal the New Normal?

Forty years have elapsed since Johnson and DeMeester’s seminal studies on prolonged intraluminal esophageal pH monitoring [1] that led to the now popular notion of using ambulatory studies to detect abnormal gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Major technical diagnostic advances coupled with the evolution of highly effective acid suppressing medications have enhanced diagnosis and treatment of
Polyphenol Oxidase System in Red Delicious Apples

The polyphenol oxidase system (E.C. 1.14.18.1) in‘Red Delicious’apples (Malus domestica) was investigated. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) revealed two active isoenzymes as detected with pyrocatechol substrate. The crude enzyme extract (acetone powder) was found to have one optimum pH of 6.2 and one optimum temperature for the browning reaction of 30°C with the experimental conditions described. The Michaelis constant (Km) as an average of the two active enzyme forms was 2.2 × 10−lM pyrocatechol and the average maximum velocity (Vmax) was 4.8 × 10−l AA390 per minute.
Sensation-seeking and video choice in second grade children

Abstract One hundred and twenty-three second grade students were asked to choose a video about “scary sharks” or “bunnies.” Two versions of each video were shown, one high in excitement and one low in excitement. Children high in sensation-seeking and boys were more likely to choose the scary video, while those low in sensation-seeking and girls most often chose to see the bunny video. When content was manipulated for high and low excitement, those choosing the scary video liked the exciting versions and somewhat disliked the less exciting versions, while those who had chosen the bunny video liked the less exciting version and disliked the exciting versions. These findings extend to young children previous research showing that sensation-seeking operates in media selection.
Markedly elevated cytokines in pleural effusion during the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: transudate or ascites?

Abstract Objective: To study levels of proinflammatory cytokines in pleural fluid during the severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Design: Case report. Setting: Tertiary academic medical center. Patient(s): A 35-year-old female with a 6-year history of unexplained infertility on menotropin therapy and 28 healthy normal controls. Intervention(s): Thoracentesis for severe pleural effusion and venipunctures. Main Outcome Measure(s): Interleukin-1β (IL-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were measured by ELISA and compared between pleural effusion and serum from normal controls. Result(s): Pleural effusion IL-1β and IL-6 levels were higher than serum. Interleukin-6 levels were elevated particularly in pleural effusion (1,961.89 pg/mL) compared with serum (3.9 ± 0.41 pg/mL). Conclusion(s): Our results confirm the high cytokine levels observed in OHSS. Cytokines have been implicated in capillary permeability, extravasation of fluid, oliguria, and shock. We have postulated that these mediators are released from the corpora lutea into the peritoneum and systemic circulation. Alternatively, the presence of high cytokine levels in pleural fluid maybe the result of diaphragmatic defects, which allow for the migration of ascites into the pleural space.
Ordered perovskites in the A2+(Li1/4Nb3/4)O3–A2+(Li2/5W3/5)O3 (A2+=Sr, Ca) systems

Single-phase 1:2 B-site ordered perovskites are formed in the (1-x)A{sup 2+}(Li{sub 1/4}Nb{sub 3/4})O{sub 3}-(x)A{sup 2+}(Li{sub 2/5}W{sub 3/5})O{sub 3} systems, A{sup 2+}=Sr and Ca, within the range 0.238=<x=<0.333. The X-ray and electron diffraction patterns are consistent with a P2{sub 1}/c monoclinic supercell, a=6ac, b=2ac, c=32ac, {beta}{approx}125 deg., where the 1:2 order is combined with b{sup -}b{sup -}c{sup +} octahedral tilting. Rietveld refinements of the ordered A(B{sup I}{sub 1/3}B{sup II}{sub 2/3})O{sub 3} structures give a good fit to a model with B{sup I} occupied by Li and Nb, B{sup II} by W and Nb, and a general stoichiometry (Sr,Ca)(Li{sub 3/4+y/2}Nb{sub 1/4-y/2}){sub 1/3}(Nb{sub 1-y}W{sub y}){sub 2/3}O{sub 3}, y=0.9x=0.21-0.30. The Sr system also includes regions of stability of a 1:3 ordered phase for 0.0=<x=<0.111, and a 1:1 ordered double perovskite for 0.833=<x=<1.0. The formation of the non-stoichiometric 1:2 ordered phases is associated with the large site charge/size differences that can be accessed in these systems, and restricted by local charge imbalances at the A-sites for W-rich compositions. These concepts are used to generate stability maps to rationalize the formation of the known 1:2 ordered oxide perovskites.
Assessment of burnout in veterinary medical students using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educational Survey: a survey during two semesters

Burnout among veterinary students can result from known stressors in the absence of a support system. The objectives of this study were to evaluate use of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educator Survey (MBI-ES) to assess burnout in veterinary students and evaluate the factors that predict the MBI-ES scores. The MBI-ES was administered to first (Class of 2016) and second year (Class of 2015) veterinary medical students during the 2012-2013 academic year in the fall and spring semesters. Factor analysis and test reliability for the survey were determined. Mean scores for the subscales determining burnout namely emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and lack of personal accomplishment (PA) were calculated for both classes in the 2 semesters. Multiple regression analysis was performed to evaluate other factors that predict the MBI-ES scores. A non-probability sampling method was implemented consisting of a voluntary sample of 170 and 123 students in the fall and spring semesters, respectively. Scores for EE, DP and PA were not different between the 2 classes within the same semester. Mean ± SD scores for EE, DP and PA for the fall semester were 22.9 ± 9.6, 5.0 ± 4.8 and 32.3 ± 6.7, respectively. Mean ± SD scores for EE, DP and PA the spring semester were 27.8 ± 10.7, 6.5 ± 6.1and 31.7 ± 6.8, respectively. The EE score was higher in spring compared to fall while DP and PA scores were not different between the 2 semesters. Living arrangements specifically as to whether or not a student lived with another veterinary medical students was the only variable significantly associated with the MBI-ES scores. Students in this study had moderate levels of burnout based on the MBI-ES scores. The MBI-ES was an acceptable instrument for assessing burnout in veterinary medical students. The EE scores were higher in the spring semester as compared to the fall semester. Thus students in the first and second years of veterinary school under the current curriculum experience the greatest levels of emotional exhaustion during the spring semester. This has administrative implications for the school, when considering the allocation and use of resources for student support systems during each semester.
ECOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION OF INSTREAM FLOW-HABITAT MODELS

Methodologies for recommending instream flows for protecting lotic ecosystems are evolving amid constructive criticism. During this period of change it is important that all concerned parties are aware of the ecological factors that control stream ecosystems and fish populations. Ecological factors relating to stream ecology, population dynamics, energetics, predation, and competition are reviewed to explain why indices of microhabitat availability are not expected to be consistent predictors of fish population density. Implications of these concepts for development and application of instream flow-habitat models for recommending instream flow regimes are discussed. Current ecological theory and empirical studies support the hypothesis that microhabitat availability may limit fish populations but not continuously. Therefore, assessments must consider the limiting habitat events as well as temperature and water quality constraints. Also, invertebrates and non-game fishes must be considered in instream flow assessments because of their importance in stream ecosystems.
Finite-difference imaginary-distance beam propagation method for modeling of the fundamental mode of photonic crystal fibers

The finite-difference imaginary-distance beam propagation method is successfully employed to investigate the effective index of the fundamental mode in the air-filled silica index-guiding photonic crystal fibers (PCFs). A PCF characterized by a hexagonal distribution of air holes with a central defect is taken as example. The convergence behavior of the modal index versus the air hole radius is investigated. It is demonstrated that the converging speed is proportional to the air hole radius. The modal birefringence in the HE state is numerically investigated and demonstrated to strongly depend on the precision of the numerical mesh.
Dynamics of structured populations with inherited properties

Abstract A mathematical model of an age-structured proliferating cell population is analyzed. The model allows the inheritance of cycle length from mother cells to daughter cells. It is proved that the solutions have the property of asynchronous exponential growth provided the transition kernel of inheritance satisfies smoothness and positivity requirements. The method of proof uses the theory of semigroups of operators and the theory of positive operators.
Exploring the Influence of Leisure on Adjustment: Development of the Leisure and Spinal Cord Injury Adjustment Model

While recent studies have demonstrated the significance of leisure in the initial phases of spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation, the impact of leisure experience on adjustment and the dynamics of that influence have yet to be adequately clarified. Development of skills to effectively manage leisure becomes critical in the community reintegration process, especially for those who are at risk for poor social and psychological adjustment after injury. Although leisure activities may contribute to well-being among individuals with SCI, the lack of understanding of the dynamics of that influence offers little direction for selection of activity alternatives and design of leisure interventions. This study attempted to answer the following research questions: (1) Does leisure engagement influence the adjustment of individuals with SCI? (2) If leisure engagement does influence adjustment, what influence do variations in leisure activity have on the adjustment of individuals with SCI? (3) Does social support m...
On estimating the fracture toughness of Al–7Si–Mg alloys by sharp-notch tensile test results

Abstract Plane-strain fracture toughness and notch-yield ratio data reported in the literature for Al–7Si–0.6Mg alloy castings were reanalyzed. A new empirical equation was developed to estimate K Ic from notch tensile strength. Statistical analysis showed that the distribution of K Ic in A357-T6 castings is two-parameter Weibull. By using the moments method to estimate the Weibull modulus, empirical equations for lower bound estimates of K Ic were introduced. It is proposed that the empirical equations developed in this study be used to estimate K Ic from round sharp-notch tensile test results from Al–7Si–0.6Mg alloy castings.
Investigating low volume planar surface fluorescent immunoassays with QDs for spatial and spectral multiplexing

Abstract The simultaneous detection of two analytes, chicken IgY (IgG) and Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), in a single spot of a planar surface fluorescent immunoassay was demonstrated using luminescent semiconductor quantum dot nanocrystal (QD) tracers. This spectral multiplexing is made possible by employing one laser to serve as the excitation source for detecting two distinct QD signals from different analytes. Spatial multiplexing – detection of two analytes in different regions of the planar surface – was also demonstrated using fluid handling constructs that allowed for very low solution volumes when performing the assay. The limits of detection for detecting both chicken IgG and SEB within a single spot were 25 ng/mL and 1.6 ng/mL, respectively. A novel slide reading detection platform involving evanescent wave excitation of a planar surface was created in-house for assay measurement. This platform is potentially more amenable to a point-of-care (POC) environment than conventional slide readers because of its modular design architecture and lack of moving parts. The result is a platform which is simple to repair using primarily off-the-shelf consumer components.
Nuclear degeneration in the myxomycete Physarella oblonga

Nuclear degeneration is a distinct and normal process occurring during sporogenesis in the myxomycete,Physarella oblonga. About 30% of the nuclei present in the developing sporangium abort. Nuclei that undergo degeneration are first surrounded by vacuoles. The membranes of the vacuoles and nuclear envelope are 75 Ā thick. As degeneration progresses the vacuoles fuse resulting in a nucleus surrounded by a single, narrow vacuole. The membrane next to the nucleus degenerates while the membrane adjacent to the sporangial cytoplasm thickens to 100 Ā. Lysosomes then fuse with the vacuole, and digestion of the nucleus begins. The undigested remains of nuclei (residual bodies) are excreted from the protoplast. Acid phosphatase is localized in the lysosomes and degenerating nuclei.
Contrasting behavior of light rare earth and actinide intermetallics

Abstract We discuss the occurrence and consequences of a two-ion anisotropic interaction coming from band electron - f electron hybridizatin effects in cerium and uranium metallic compounds. This interaction is pertinent to understanding a number of the experimental anomalies associated with the magnetic ordering in cerium and uranium monopnictides and monochalcogenides of NaCl-structure. The theory is pertinent to systems with a moderate amount of hybridization and conceptually follows from the model of Coqblin and Schrieffer, developed in the late 1960s, to treat single-ion hybridization effects for cerium. Our work has involved detailed calculations for magnetic structural behavior, including transitions in temperature and applied field, as well as for magnetic excitation behavior in cerium systems. Very recent theoretical work on uranium systems offers the possibility of understanding transitions in temperature between collinear and noncollinear magnetic structures.
FT-Raman spectroscopy as a method for screening collagen diagenesis in bone

Abstract This study examines Fourier transform (FT) Raman spectroscopy as a non-destructive screening method to determine collagen quality in archaeological and paleontological bones. Bone samples were characterized for collagen quality using well-established elemental abundance analyses (i.e., percentage nitrogen and C:N) as the primary criteria for classification. FT-Raman spectra were collected from outer surfaces and freshly cut cross-sections of both well-preserved and poorly-preserved historic mammal bones. Peak heights and peak areas were studied visually and with bivariate and multivariate statistics. Raman spectra from cross-sections provided the most accurate determination of collagen quality. A ratio of the 960 cm −1 and 1636 cm −1 peak heights provided the most unambiguous distinction between bones with well-preserved and poorly-preserved collagen. The 960 cm −1 and 1636 cm −1 peaks represent phosphate anion stretching in the bone mineral and amide carbonyl stretching in the collagen, respectively. FT-Raman spectra from bones with well-preserved collagen produced a 960 cm −1 :1636 cm −1 ratio of 19.4 or less (after peaks were baseline corrected). This mineral to collagen ratio was typically greater in poorly-preserved samples as organic material tends to be more susceptible to early stages of diagenesis. These criteria now can be used to accurately determine collagen quality in bones before sacrificing samples to the lengthy and destructive chemical extractions necessary for carbon-14 dating, stable isotope analyses, proteomic analyses, and other techniques of archaeological or paleontological interest.
Current Practices in Antimicrobial Dosing

There has been minimal utilization of pharmacologic principles in the establishment of treatment programs for many infectious diseases. Drugs with markedly different half-lives and peak levels in serum have been prescribed at the same dosage intervals. No attempt has been made to determine if the efficacy of dosing programs in which levels in serum that exceed bactericidal levels are achieved but in which doses are administered infrequently is greater than or equal to that of current programs. Double-blind studies of therapeutic programs in which drugs with different pharmacokinetic properties are compared are the only means of eliminating the current confusion regarding dosing practices.
Wet or Dry Cooling

Two major aspects related to water use in solar power plants are examined. First we compare the water used in various approaches to power generation. These include water requirements for cooling (where applicable) and other needs within the plant. Included is attention to water requirements for makeup in Rankine cycles, as well as for cleaning of concentrating solar systems. In the second thrust, we examine the impacts of using dry cooling for Rankine cycles. It is generally established that this approach requires premiums in both capital and operating costs (the latter is dependent upon the cost of water), as well as a penalty in performance when compared to wet systems. We examine the trends associated with this technology and outline some for the current performance issues with various cooling approaches.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
On the origin of isolated olivine grains in type 2 carbonaceous chondrites

Two possibilities exist for the origin of aggregates and isolated grains in C2 meteorites: (1) high-temperature phases that condensed directly from a solar nebular gas accumulated as aggregates and single grains on the parent bodies of carbonaceous chondrites and remained unaltered since, or (2) all high-temperature phases in these meteorites are now, or once were, insided chondrules and have been melted out. Petrographic evidence for these two alternative models is examined critically. Four different scenarios to account for the kinds of aggregates and isolated grains in the Murchison C2 meteorite are studied. It is concluded that the majority of isolated olivine grains in the matrix never underwent melting in a chondrule-making stage. These crystal fragments and aggregates can thus be accounted for by direct condensation from a solar nebular gas.
EEG evidence of stimulus-directed response dynamics in human somatosensory cortex

Dense multichannel recordings of scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) were obtained in the vicinity of primary somatosensory cortex, time-locked to repetitive vibrotactile stimulation of sites on the right index finger of a single human subject. Frequency-domain analysis of cross-trial averages revealed prominent 'driving' responses in the EEG at the frequency of stimulation, which under specific stimulus conditions displayed pronounced changes in amplitude and topographic organization over brief (4 s) durations of stimulus exposure. The changes were systematic and physiologically coherent, evolving toward driving-response topographies observed in the same subject in conjunction with periodic microstimulation of single mechanoreceptive afferents whose receptive fields occupied corresponding positions on the digit. This dynamic process was orderly and reproducible, and could be controlled by manipulating factors such as the amplitude, frequency, and temporal spacing of the stimuli. The results are tentatively interpreted in light of a previously proposed neurophysiological model of stimulus-driven response plasticity in mammalian somatosensory cortex.
Benchmark dose profiles for joint-action quantal data in quantitative risk assessment.

Benchmark analysis is a widely used tool in public health risk analysis. Therein, estimation of minimum exposure levels, called Benchmark Doses (BMDs), that induce a pre-specified Benchmark Response (BMR) is well understood for the case of an adverse response to a single stimulus. For cases where two agents are studied in tandem, however, the benchmark approach is far less developed. This paper demonstrates how the benchmark modeling paradigm can be expanded from the single-dose setting to joint-action, two-agent studies. Focus is on response outcomes expressed as proportions. Extending the single-exposure setting, representations of risk are based on a joint-action dose-response model involving both agents. Based on such a model, the concept of a benchmark profile (BMP) – a two-dimensional analog of the single-dose BMD at which both agents achieve the specified BMR – is defined for use in quantitative risk characterization and assessment. The resulting, joint, low-dose guidelines can improve public health planning and risk regulation when dealing with low-level exposures to combinations of hazardous agents.
Enhancement of penicillin effectiveness by traces of cobalt.

Addition of trace amounts of cobalt to the nutrient agar in test plates increases approximately four- to eightfold the effectiveness of relatively dilute penicillin solutions in producing inhibition zones on plates seeded with Staphylococcus aureus and decreases to approximately one-third or less, depending upon the test organism that is used, the minimum or threshold concentration of penicillin that can be detected by the cylinder-plate technic.
Separate physiological roles for two isozymes of pyridine nucleotide-linked glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in chicken.

The isozymes considered are designated 'liver type' and 'muscle type' based on the tissue of highest concentration. Electrophoretic analysis shows that the liver type is found in small amounts or is undetectable in all tissues studied except liver. The muscle type is found in skeletal muscles and kidney. Presumptive hybrid enzymes occur at low levels in chicken liver and kidney. The tissue distribution of glyceron-3-P dehydrogenase in several birds capable of sustained flight is different than in chicken.
Transmissibility of 1918 pandemic influenza

The 1918 influenza pandemic killed 20-40 million people worldwide, and is seen as a worst-case scenario for pandemic planning. Like other pandemic influenza strains, the 1918 A/H1N1 strain spread extremely rapidly. A measure of transmissibility and of the stringency of control measures required to stop an epidemic is the reproductive number, which is the number of secondary cases produced by each primary case. Here we obtained an estimate of the reproductive number for 1918 influenza by fitting a deterministic SEIR (susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered) model to pneumonia and influenza death epidemic curves from 45 US cities: the median value is less than three. The estimated proportion of the population with A/H1N1 immunity before September 1918 implies a median basic reproductive number of less than four. These results strongly suggest that the reproductive number for 1918 pandemic influenza is not large relative to many other infectious diseases. In theory, a similar novel influenza subtype could be controlled. But because influenza is frequently transmitted before a specific diagnosis is possible and there is a dearth of global antiviral and vaccine stores, aggressive transmission reducing measures will probably be required.
Statistical Algorithm for Attitude Estimation from Real-Time Aerial Video

Almost all autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles are used for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering roles. This means that cameras, video transmitters, and/or video recorders are already integrated in the system and are part of the unmanned aerial vehicle payload. Current attitude estimation sensors are expensive, heavy, and consume more power than most micro aerial vehicles can tolerate. Vision-based attitude estimation can be used to augment inertial sensors for increased accuracy, or as primary pitch and roll sensing resulting in reduced vehicle cost, size, and weight. This paper presents a fast, real-time algorithm to estimate pitch and roll angles for an aerial vehicle from video frames captured using a downward-pointingcamerawithamountedfisheyelens.Thefisheyelensisinstalledtoensure the visibility of most of the earth’s horizon at sufficient altitudes. Attitude angles are estimated by the horizontal and vertical movement of the horizon circle, which moves in relation to the center of the video frame image. The system was tested and implemented on a radio controlled plane and the results proved to be successful with over 85% of the results within ±3 ◦ when compared to a traditional inertial measurement unit.
Probing the folding and unfolding dynamics of secondary and tertiary structures in a three-helix bundle protein.

Fast relaxation kinetics studies of the B-domain of staphylococcal protein A were performed to characterize the folding and unfolding of this small three-helix bundle protein. The relaxation kinetics were initiated using a laser-induced temperature jump and probed using time-resolved infrared spectroscopy. The kinetics monitored within the amide I‘ absorbance of the polypeptide backbone exhibit two distinct kinetics phases with nanosecond and microsecond relaxation times. The fast kinetics relaxation time is close to the diffusion limits placed on protein folding reactions. The fast kinetics phase is dominated by the relaxation of the solvated helix (ν = 1632 cm-1), which reports on the fast relaxation of the individual helices. The slow kinetics phase follows the cooperative relaxation of the native helical bundle core that is monitored by both solvated (ν = 1632 cm-1) and buried helical IR bands (ν = 1652 cm-1). The folding rates of the slow kinetics phase calculated over an extended temperature range i...
Mechanisms underlying epigenetic effects of early social experience: The role of neuropeptides and steroids

In mammals the neonatal period is a time of significant social interaction. This is true even in solitary species as females spend a significant amount of time nursing and caring for their offspring. In social species interactions may also include the father, older siblings and extended family members. This period is a time of significant development, including organization of the central nervous system, and therefore a time when the degree and type of social interaction influences the development and expression of social behavior in adulthood. The purpose of this review is to examine the possible mechanisms for the epigenetic effects of early social experience on the subsequent expression of social behavior. We propose that social interactions during the neonatal period organize the subsequent expression of behavior by altering sensitivity to neuropeptides and steroids. Both neuropeptides (e.g. oxytocin and arginine vasopressin) and steroids (e.g. estrogen) regulate or influence the expression of behaviors such as affiliation, aggression, sociosexual behavior, parental behavior, and responses to stress. Therefore, changes in sensitivity to these hormones via reorganization of receptors or changes in hormone production and secretion are potentially powerful mechanisms through which early social experience can mold subsequent social behaviors.
Intrinsic tone of cerebral artery segments of human infants between 23 weeks of gestation and term.

Segments of basilar and middle cerebral arteries of eight human preterm and early postnatal infants have been examined using the resistance artery myograph technique for wire-mounted segments and the pressure perfusion arteriograph. Myographmounted segments spontaneously developed tone of varying duration and time course. Perfused segments showed maintained tone levels of approximately 40% of maximum possible constriction when the intraluminal pressure was 60 mm Hg. This level is not different from that found in adult human pial arteries of similar lumen diameter. Indomethacin (10-5 M) either initiated tone increase or potentiated existing tone in the isometrically mounted segments. After washout of vasoconstrictors norepinephrine (10-6 M) and angiotensin II (10-8 M), indomethacin caused a pronounced, long lasting increase in basal tone. Spontaneous tone was reversed by acetylcholine (10-6 M), isoproterenol(10-8 to 10-5 M), histamine (10-8 to 10-5 M), and papaverine (10-5 M). Low levels of tone were increased and higher levels decreased by intraluminal flow. The pressure/diameter curves of these vessels were of similar shape as those of the equivalent size in the adult. It is concluded that intrinsic tone is a prominent feature of these large cerebral arteries, and it is modified by an endogenous indomethacin-sensitive process.
The Burden of Deportation on Children in Mexican Immigrant Families

In 2011, a record number of foreign-born individuals were detained and removed from the United States. This article looks at the impact enforcement policies have had on Mexican families more broadly and children specifically. Drawing on interviews with 91 parents and 110 children in 80 households, the author suggests that, similar to the injury pyramid used by public health professionals, a deportation pyramid best depicts the burden of deportation on children. At the top of the pyramid are instances that have had the most severe consequences on children's daily lives: families in which a deportation has led to permanent family dissolution. But enforcement policies have had the greatest impact on children at the bottom of the pyramid. Regardless of legal status or their family members' involvement with immigration authorities, children in Mexican immigrant households describe fear about their family stability and confusion over the impact legality has on their lives.
Partial salvage cryoablation of the prostate for recurrent prostate cancer after radiotherapy failure.

OBJECTIVES To determine the efficacy of partial cryoablation of the prostate in the salvage setting. METHODS All patients who were treated between April 2004 and September 2007 for recurrent prostate adenocarcinoma after failure of primary radiotherapy by means of partial cryoablation were identified. RESULTS Nineteen patients met inclusion criteria; 15 had >6 months' follow-up. Mean age was 71 years. Men received salvage therapy a mean of 6 years after primary radiotherapy. Median follow-up was 18 months (range, 6-33 months). The biochemical recurrence-free survival rate (according to the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology definition) was 89%, 67%, and 50% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. One of 10 patients harbored residual carcinoma on routine follow-up biopsy at 1 year, whereas 50% harbored residual benign prostate tissue. Complications included incontinence (1), urethral stricture (1), and urethral ulcer (1). CONCLUSIONS In properly selected patients with a unilateral focus of disease recurrence after radiotherapy, acceptable oncologic results can be achieved with partial cryoablation of the prostate, with low morbidity.
Fiberoptic Bronchoplasty: Description of a Simple Adjunct Technique for the Management of Bronchial Stenosis following Lung Transplantation

Bronchostenosis is a well-recognized complication of pulmonary transplantation occurring at the site of the anastomosis and occasionally spreading distally from the original site of obstruction. The management of these airway complications has relied heavily on stent placement that usually involves the use of a rigid bronchoscope and is a relatively complicated procedure in the patient requiring mechanical ventilation. Another has been the use of laser therapy in selected patients. We report three cases of postoperative bronchostenosis managed with bronchoscopically directed balloon dilatation. This relatively simple procedure performed under local anesthesia using a fiberoptic bronchoscope and a modification of the Seldinger technique for balloon placement permitted accurate and atraumatic dilatation of significant posttransplant stenosis. This technique may have potential for emergency and/or palliative management of postoperative, posttraumatic, or malignant airway obstruction.
Dependence of runoff phosphorus on extractable soil phosphorus

The sustainable management of fertilizer and manure P to minimize freshwater eutrophication requires identification of soil P levels that exceed crop P requirements and have the potential for P enrichment of runoff. Although several states have established such P levels, insufficient data are available to theoretically justify them. Thus, this study investigates the relationship between the concentrations of P in runoff and in soil. Surface samples (0-10 cm) of 10 Oklahoma soils were packed in 0.15 m 2 boxes, incubated for 7 d with poultry litter (0-20 Mg ha -1 ) to obtain a range in Mehlich-3 P contents (7-360 mg kg -1 ), and received five 30-min rainfalls applied at 1-d intervals. The concentration of dissolved, bioavailable, and particulate P in runoff was related (r 2 > 0.90 ; P < 0.1) to the Mehlich-3 P content of surface soil (0-1 cm), with regression slopes ranging from 2.0 to 7.2, increasing as soil P sorption maxima increased (r 2 = 0.93). Two soils of 200 mg kg -1 Mehlich-3 P supported a dissolved P concentration in runoff of 280 μg L -1 (San Saba clay ; fine, montmorillonitic, thermic Udic Pellustert) and 1360 μg L -1 (Stigler silt loam ; fine, mixed, thermic Aquic Paleudalf). Thus, relationships between runoff and soil P will have to be soil specific for use in management recommendations. A single linear relationship described the dependence of dissolved (r 2 = 0.86) and bioavailable P (r 2 = 0.85) on soil P sorption saturation. The added complexity of the P saturation approach may limit its application ; however, the approach integrates the effect of soil type with soil P content to better estimate the potential for P loss in runoff than soil P alone.