cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ionic mobility of the middle atmosphere

Abstract Positive ion mobilities are calculated for 40–75 km by computing the theoretical positive ion composition and combining it with laboratory-determined mobilities. Theoretical determinations for mobility appear to be especially apt for the 40–65 km region since oxonium ions are observed to be the principal positive ions and they should be subject to thermodynamic equilibrium. We compute a mean reduced mobility of 2.1 ± 0.1 cm 2 /V-s for 40–65 km using the 1976 U.S. Standard Atmosphere and a water vapor mixing ratio of 5 ppmv. The results are compared with atmospheric data for mobility. Observations of a lower mobility from about 35 km down to ground level are qualitatively compatible with the onset of the so-called non-proton hydrate ions at about this altitude and extending to lower heights. We note that the laboratory determined mobilities for oxonium ions average about 12 % less than the theoretical Langevin values. The total positive ion conductivity is determined also and compared with in-situ results.
Simultaneous determination of ABT-888, a poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor, and its metabolite in human plasma by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry

A reversed-phase liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of ABT-888 and its major metabolite (M8) in human plasma. Sample preparation involved a liquid-liquid extraction by the addition of 0.25 ml of plasma with 10 microl of 1 M NaOH and 1.0 ml ethyl acetate containing 50 ng/ml of the internal standard zileuton. The analytes were separated on a Waters XBridge C(18) column using a gradient mobile phase consisting of methanol/water containing 0.45% formic acid at the flow rate of 0.2 ml/min. The analytes were monitored by tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray positive ionization. Linear calibration curves were generated over the ABT-888 and M8 concentration ranges of 1-2000 ng/ml in human plasma. The lower limits of quantitation (LLOQ) were 1 ng/ml for both ABT-888 and M8 in human plasma. The accuracy and within- and between-day precisions were within the generally accepted criteria for bioanalytical method (<15%). This method was successfully employed to characterize the plasma concentration-time profile of ABT-888 after its oral administration in cancer patients.
Comparison of the cell cycle regulated synthesis and phosphorylation of stress proteins, actin isoforms and a novel actin-like protein following drug administration in cultured rat lymphocytes.

Administration of phytohemagglutinin initiated cycling of rat lymphocytes in vitro, and following treatment with this drug and other drugs in combination, lymphocytes were pulse labeled with [3H] leucine or [32P] phosphate. The nuclei were isolated from lymphocytes and collected from partitions of the cell cycle, and the proteins analyzed from fluorographs following gel electrophoresis for protein biomarkers after drug exposure. Stress proteins (sps) were dependent on a specific drug or drugs in combination (i.e., interleukin-2, bleomycin) for their synthesis that occurred only during the G1-phase of the cell cycle. An “actin-like” protein (A4) with electrophoretic mobilities similar to the actin complex, was synthesized in S and G2 phases and phosphorylated in all phases of the cell cycle only following the administration of drugs in combination. A4 exhibited a binding affinity for sp 24 that was cell cycle regulated (i.e., A4 from S phase did not bind with sp 24, but A4 from G2 phase did bind with the sp. Protein A4 appeared similar in some structural aspects to the nonmuscular actin isoform family but differed in epitope, suggesting a unique relationship and represented a stable protein, perhaps a product from the mutation of an actin gene. The dependence of certain sps and protein A4 for their induction by drugs in combination may serve as biomarkers of chemical interaction and toxicity.
11.5-Gb/s OFDM transmission over 640km SSMF using directly modulated laser

We show 11.5-Gb/s optical OFDM transmission over 640 km SSMF with directly modulated laser (DML) and direct-detection without dispersion compensation. DML can reduce the system complexity and cost.
Reclaiming sexuality in female incest survivors

This paper presents a comparison of female incest survivor sex therapy patients and other sex therapy patients. The focus is on family-of-origin dynamics and processes of teaching about sexuality, self-image and resulting interpersonal issues. The study also discusses nonincest survivor and incest survivor sex therapy clients with low sexual desire, their evaluation and treatment.
Plasma-assisted printing and doping processes for manufacturing few-layer MoS 2 -based electronic and optoelectronic devices

MoS 2 and other emerging two-dimensional layered transition metal dichalcogenides hold the promise for making novel nanoelectronic, optoelectronic, and biosensing devices with new or significantly improved functionalities. To realize this potential and especially enable scale-up device applications of such atomically layered materials, new nanomanufacturing and material processing methods are needed for producing device structures of MoS 2 and other layered materials over large areas and tailoring the band structures of as-produced raw materials to achieve desirable electronic and photonic properties. In this paper, we systematically review our recent progress in developing new plasma-assisted printing and doping technologies for paving few-layer and multilayer MoS 2 structures over centimeter-scale areas and demonstrating new device applications in non-volatile memory transistors and thin-film photovoltaics. Our presented methods, although in the early development stage, hold significant potential to be further developed into upscalable manufacturing systems.
Alpha-adrenergic receptors mediate imipramine/ alarm substance-induced reaction in rats

Abstract The mechanism of adverse imipramine-induced reactions (jitterness, convulsions) was investigated by precipitating such reactions in rats with three injections (IP) of imipramine (5–40 mg/kg) at 24, 5, and 1 h before testing, and comparing their occurrence with comparable treatments using specific noradrenergic and serotonergic reuptake inhibitors [nortriptyline (10 or 30 mg/kg, IP), citalopram (0.5–5.0 mg/kg, IP)]. This initial study indicated that these reactions were mediated by imipramine's noradrenergic effects. Subsequent combinations of imipramine and an α 2 agonist (clonidine, 5 mg/kg) and antagonist (yohimbine, 2 mg/kg), and a β-adrenergic antagonist (propranolol, 2 or 5 mg/kg) (all adminisitered IP 0.5 h after the last injection of imipramine) suggested imipramine's adverse effects were mediated by α 2 receptors. The possible involvement of the locus ceruleus in these effects was considered.
Predicting Prefix Availability in the Internet

The Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) maintains inter-domain routing information by announcing and withdrawing IP prefixes, possibly resulting in temporary prefix unreachability. Prefix availability observed from different vantage points in the Internet can be lower than standards promised by Service Level Agreements (SLAs). In this paper, we develop a framework for predicting long-term prefix availability, given short-duration prefix information from publicly available BGP routing databases. We compare three prediction models, and find that bagged decision trees perform the best when predicting for long future durations, whereas a simple model works well for short prediction durations. We show that mean time to failure and to recovery outperform past availability in terms of their importance for predicting availability for long durations. We also find that predictability is higher in the year 2009, compared to four years earlier. Our models allow ISPs to adjust BGP routing policies if predicted availability is low, and the models are useful for cloud computing systems, P2P, and VoIP applications.
The potential of extrachromosomal replicating vectors for gene therapy

Persistence of DNA vectors in target cells is advantageous in most applications of gene therapy. Particularly when target cells are undergoing proliferation, vector longevity will depend on either the integration of the vector into the chromosomes or the ability of the vector to replicate and be retained extrachromosomally. Vectors that efficiently integrate in a nonrandom fashion are currently unavailable, and those that can replicate extrachromosomally provide a major alternative strategy. Several classes of such vectors are under development, carrying mechanisms for prolonging DNA retention in mammalian nuclei that extend vector lifetime in non-proliferating cells as well. The vectors utilize either chromosomal or viral elements to mediate replication and retention, and have a large size capacity for insertion of genes of interest. I discuss the state of the art for these vectors, including the assets and limitations of their future use in gene therapy.
"T Scores for Change": An illustration of a regression approach to depicting change in clinical neuropsychology.

Abstract The interpretation of change scores in neuropsychological assessment is of increasing importance. In order to illustrate a regression approach to depicting change, 50 patients with chronic seizure disorders were assessed twice with the WAIS-R and the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised over an average interval of 7.8 months. Regression analysis was employed to develop norms for change that were converted into standardized scores. These T Scores for Change were analyzed with a MANOVA to compare the effects of epilepsy surgery on cognition and memory in 50 right-temporal lobectomy and 47 left-temporal lobectomy patients. Significant group, test, and interaction effects were found. A profile of the T Scores for Change permitted quick and accurate appreciation of the major findings. The characteristics of the regression-derived T Score approach are compared with a recently suggested reliability approach.
Epidemiology of cardiac arrest and resuscitation in children

A surveillance system identified all out-of-hospital cardiac patients under the age of 18 who received emergency care in suburban King County, Washington. The etiology, cardiac rhythm, and outcome were identified for each case. During a 6 1/2-year period, 119 cardiac arrests occurred (annual incidence, 12.7/100,000 among individuals less than 18). Sudden infant death was the most common etiology (32%), and drowning was the second most common (22%). The most common rhythm was asystole, accounting for 66% of all rhythms. Six percent of patients treated with basic EMT care were discharged, compared with 7% of patients treated with EMT and paramedic care. In contrast to resuscitation from cardiac arrest in adults, the likelihood of successful resuscitation in children is very poor. This is due to different etiologies and the higher proportion of asystole seen in pediatric cardiac arrest as compared with adults.
Magnetic Susceptibilities of Europium Sesquioxide and of Uranium Dioxide at Low Temperatures

FOR the ion Eu3+, in which the multiplet intervals are not very great compared to kT, Van Vleck1 gives theoretical magnetic susceptibilities which are almost independent of temperature below 80° K. The actual values depend on the screening constant, and extrapolation2 from the known levels of Sm3+ suggests that the screening constant, σ, for the Eu3+ ion should be 33. If this is correct, then the theoretical susceptibilities are as represented in the accompanying graph. Susceptibilities calculated for σ = 34 fire also shown.
A comparison of nitrogen values obtained utilizing the Kjeldahl nitrogen and Dumas combustion methodologies (Leco CNS 2000) on samples typical of an animal nutrition analytical laboratory

Abstract The Dumas combustion procedure using Leco's CNS 2000 analyzer has been shown to give nitrogen values comparable to those obtained with the Kjeldahl procedure for soil and plant products (slightly higher for most samples). These procedures were compared for a range of samples more typical for an animal nutrition laboratory (feed, excreta, carcass, egg yolk, milk and urine). For the 36 samples compared, the Kjeldahl procedure gave N values slightly lower than the Dumas procedure: N Kjeldahl =0.0103+0.9855×N CNS . The coefficient of variation for standard AAFCO broiler and cattle feeds (measured repeatedly over an 18-month period) were 2.23 ( n =90) and 2.12 g/100 g ( n =177), respectively. It was concluded that the Dumas combustion procedure is capable of replacing the Kjeldahl procedure for routine animal nutrition laboratory N analyses. The Dumas procedure has the advantages of using fewer strong reactants, requiring less labor, and uses a more efficient temperature to release the nitrogen from the samples than the Kjeldahl procedure.
New dimensions for adolescent substance use prevention

The primary focus of this issue of The Journal of Primary Prevention (JPP)—adolescent substance use—is particularly important to me. As a researcher in adolescent health and the parent of a teenager, I continually monitor the challenges adolescents face in the complex world we live in and examine the most effective ways to prepare them to meet those challenges. Thus, I benefit greatly when research converges to address health and behavioral outcomes that impact me not only professionally (as a researcher) but also personally (as a parent). I trust that JPP readers will feel similarly. Adolescent substance use continues to be a major public health problem in the United States. While tobacco and alcohol use have declined among U.S. teens over the past 20 years, marijuana use has increased. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2012), past-month alcohol use decreased by 24 %, binge drinking by 24 %, and past-month cigarette use by 34 % among U.S. high school students from 1991 to 2011. However, during this same time period, marijuana use increased by 60 %, with 23 % of U.S. high school students reporting having smoked marijuana in the past 30 days. It is important to emphasize that adolescent substance use is not only a national public health problem but also an international one, impacting teens in various communities around the world. Two studies in this issue examined the potential impact of religiosity and spirituality on adolescent substance use. Both of these studies are intriguing given growing evidence suggesting that religiosity and spirituality are protective against substance use, especially among urban adolescents. In a sample of predominantly African American youth, aged 13–20 years and living in Philadelphia, Mason et al. tested whether three dimensions of religiosity (social religiosity, perceived religious support, and private religiosity) as well as proximity to religious institutions were protective against various types of substance use. Contributing to the novelty of this study is the fact that the authors investigated the impact of multiple dimensions of religiosity, which in adolescent substance use research has typically been assessed using a single dimension. Logistic regression analysis revealed that two dimensions of religiosity were protective against at least one type of substance use: Social religiosity was protective against marijuana use, and perceived religious support was protective against tobacco use. However, the third dimension of religiosity, private religiosity, was not protective against any type of substance use. As Mason et al. conclude, in addition to providing initial evidence that proximity to religious institutions is protective against alcohol use, their findings point to the importance of examining religiosity as a multidimensional construct when investigating substance use in urban youth populations. S. R. Tortolero (&) University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA e-mail: Susan.Tortolero@uth.tmc.edu
Structure−Reactivity Relationships in Bimolecular-Activated Monomer Polymerization of (Meth)acrylates Using Oxidatively Activated Group 14 Ketene Acetals

Highly active, bifunctional propagating species that contain both nucleophilic and electrophilic catalyst sites as well as bring about efficient living/controlled (meth)acrylate polymerization at a...
Autoignition of methylcyclohexane at elevated pressures

Autoignition of methylcyclohexane (MCH) is investigated in a rapid compression machine (RCM). Experiments are conducted for homogeneous MCH/O{sub 2}/N{sub 2}/Ar mixtures with equivalence ratios varying from 0.5 to 1.5, at compressed charge pressures of 15.1 and 25.5 bar, and over a compressed gas temperature range of 680-905 K. In the RCM experiments, the mole percentage of MCH is kept constant at 1.047%, while the equivalence ratio is varied through variation in oxygen mole percentage. Ignition delay measurements demonstrate the features of two-stage ignition characteristics and strong negative temperature coefficient (NTC) behavior. The NTC behavior is also noted to shift to higher temperatures at higher pressures and for oxygen-rich mixtures. In addition, both the first-stage and total ignition delays show significant dependence on oxygen mole fraction. Furthermore, the current ignition delay measurements provide additional benchmark data for the validation of the oxidation kinetics of MCH. Comparison of the experimental ignition delays with the simulated results using an available detailed kinetic mechanism is conducted and discussed. (author)
Nonconvex, lower semicontinuous piecewise linear optimization

A branch-and-cut algorithm for solving linear problems with continuous separable piecewise linear cost functions was developed in 2005 by Keha et al. This algorithm is based on valid inequalities for an SOS2 based formulation of the problem. In this paper we study the extension of the algorithm to the case where the cost function is only lower semicontinuous. We extend the SOS2 based formulation to the lower semicontinuous case and show how the inequalities introduced by Keha et al. can also be used for this new formulation. We also introduce a simple generalization of one of the inequalities introduced by Keha et al. Furthermore, we study the discontinuities caused by fixed charge jumps and introduce two new valid inequalities by extending classical results for fixed charge linear problems. Finally, we report computational results showing how the addition of the developed inequalities can significantly improve the performance of CPLEX when solving these kinds of problems.
Pneumothorax volume expansion in helicopter emergency medical services transport.

Abstract Objective In accordance with Boyle's law (as barometric pressure decreases, gas volume increases), thoracostomy is often recommended for patients with pneumothoraces before helicopter EMS (HEMS) transport. We sought to characterize altitude-related volume changes in a pneumothorax model, aiming to improve clinical decisions for preflight thoracostomy in HEMS patients. Methods This prospective study used 3 devices to measure air expansion at HEMS altitudes. The main device was an artificial pneumothorax model that mimicked a human pulmonary system with a 40 mL pneumothorax. In addition, volume changes were calculated in 2 spherical balloons (6 L and 25 L) by measuring equatorial circumferences. Measurements were recorded at 500-foot altitude increments from 1000 to 5000 feet above ground level. Results The 3 models exhibited volume increases of 12.7%–16.2% at 5000 feet compared to ground level. Univariate linear regression yielded similar increases, 1.27%–1.52%, in volume per 500-foot altitude increase for all 3 models. Bivariate indexed linear regression identified no association between volume increase and assessment model (P values .19 and .29). Locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (lowess) plots indicated linearity of the altitude-volume relationship. Conclusion This study demonstrated predictable pneumothorax volume changes at typical HEMS altitudes. Increased understanding of altitude-related volume changes will aid decision making before transport.
Exact and approximate nonlinear waves generated by the periodic superposition of solitons

Toda [1], Boyd [2], Zaitsev [3], Korpel & Banerjee [4], and Whitham [5] have proved that many species of solitons may be cloned and superposed with even spacing to generateexact nonlinear, spatially periodic solutions (“cnoidal waves”). The equations solved by such “imbricate” series of solitary waves include the Korteweg-deVries, Cubic Schroedinger, Benjamin-Ono, and resonant triad equations. However, all existing theorems apply only when the solitons arerational ormeromorphic functions and the cnoidal waves areelliptic functions. In this note, we ask: does the exact soliton-superposition apply to non-elliptic solitons and cnoidal waves?
Effect of verapamil and procainamide on atrial fibrillation-induced electrical remodeling in humans.

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) shortens the atrial effective refractory period (ERP) and predisposes to further episodes of AF. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of verapamil and procainamide on these manifestations of AF-induced electrical remodeling. Methods and Results In adult patients without structural heart disease, the atrial ERP was measured before and after AF after pharmacological autonomic blockade and administration of verapamil (17 patients), procainamide (10 patients), or saline (20 patients). AF was then induced by rapid pacing. Immediately on AF conversion, the post-AF ERP was measured at alternating drive cycle lengths of 350 and 500 ms. In the saline group, the pre-AF and first post-AF ERPs at the 350-ms drive cycle length were 206±19 and 179±27 ms (P<.0001), respectively, and at the 500-ms drive cycle length, the values were 217±16 and 183±23 ms, respectively (P<.0001). There was a similar significant shortening of the first post-AF ERP in the procainamide grou...
Social Networks of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Older Adults

Purpose:This study examines global social networks—including friendship, support, and acquaintance networks—of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) older adults.Design and Methods:Utilizing data from a large community-based study, we employ multiple regression analyses to examine correlates of social network size and diversity.Results:Controlling for background characteristics, network size was positively associated with being female, transgender identity, employment, higher income, having a partner or a child, identity disclosure to a neighbor, engagement in religious activities, and service use. Controlling in addition for network size, network diversity was positively associated with younger age, being female, transgender identity, identity disclosure to a friend, religious activity, and service use.Implications:According to social capital theory, social networks provide a vehicle for social resources that can be beneficial for successful aging and well-being. This study is a first step at un...
Slide Preparation for Teaching and Scientific Paper Presentation

Abstract Excellent slides can be prepared for classroom use and paper presentation at various types of meetings with a single lens reflex camera and a black changeable letter board with yellow molded plastic letters. The size of the board limits the amount of data that can be presented on a single slide, thus the audience is able to follow the presentation with clarity.
Removing autocorrelation sidelobes of phase-coded waveforms

This paper studies autocorrelation properties of a train of identical signals overlaid with a phase coding in the case when the uncoded signal forming the train consists of several groups of identical bits. It is shown that, if the coding patterns are the rows of a mutually orthogonal complementary set matrix, the waveform's autocorrelation sidelobes around the main lobe area can be completely removed. At the same time, repetition of some bits of the uncoded signal can be used to achieve a low sidelobe level in the close vicinity of the main lobe.
Personality Differences between Online and Face-to-Face Students

(2002). Personality Differences Between Online and Face-to-Face Students. The Journal of Continuing Higher Education: Vol. 50, No. 3, pp. 14-23.
PHARMACODYNAMIC EFFECTS OF EV–077 IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS ON CLOPIDOGREL MONOTHERAPY: RESULTS OF AN IN VITRO PILOT INVESTIGATION

Diabetes mellitus (DM) patients have increased thromboxane A2 (TXA2) which activate TX prostanoid receptors (TPR). In DM patients, EV–077, a combined TXA2 synthase inhibitor and TPR antagonist, achieves more effective platelet inhibition compared with aspirin. However, the effects of EV–077 in
Improved polyethylene cannulation techniques

Abstract A method is described for modifying polyethylene cannulas to maintain them firmly in the blood vessels. The device and associated circuitry for forming the cannulas is described. Techniques in which the cannulas have been used to sample blood or to infuse substances into the cerebral circulation are detailed.
Chicken interferon consensus sequence-binding protein (ICSBP) and interferon regulatory factor (IRF) 1 genes reveal evolutionary conservation in the IRF gene family.

Abstract Members of the IRF family mediate transcriptional responses to interferons (IFNs) and to virus infection. So far, proteins of this family have been studied only among mammalian species. Here we report the isolation of cDNA clones encoding two members of this family from chicken, interferon consensus sequence-binding protein (ICSBP) and IRF-1. The predicted chicken ICSBP and IRF-1 proteins show high levels of sequence similarity to their corresponding human and mouse counterparts. Sequence identities in the putative DNA-binding domains of chicken and human ICSBP and IRF-1 were 97% and 89%, respectively, whereas the C-terminal regions showed identities of 64% and 51%; sequence relationships with mouse ICSBP and IRF-1 are very similar. Chicken ICSBP was found to be expressed in several embryonic tissues, and both chicken IRF-1 and ICSBP were strongly induced in chicken fibroblasts by IFN treatment, supporting the involvement of these factors in IFN-regulated gene expression. The presence of proteins homologous to mammalian IRF family members, together with earlier observations on the occurrence of functionally homologous IFN-responsive elements in chicken and mammalian genes, highlights the conservation of transcriptional mechanisms in the IFN system, a finding that contrasts with the extensive sequence and functional divergence of the IFNs.
Antibody to Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Nasal Secretions and Sputa of Experimentally Infected Human Volunteers

After experimental infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, 42% of 67 volunteers developed a threefold or greater rise in antibody in nasal secretions as measured by radioimmunoprecipitation. Development of an antibody increase in sputum was detected more often, i.e., in 73% of the volunteers. Each of the antibody increases involved immunoglobulin (Ig) A. Twelve rises in IgG antibody were detected in the specimens which exhibited a rise in IgA antibody. In almost every instance the rise in IgA antibody exceeded that seen with IgG antibody. Analysis of the response to experimental challenge with M. pneumoniae of volunteers with different levels of preexisting respiratory tract IgA antibody suggested that this secretory antibody was related to host resistance to M. pneumoniae disease. Further, respiratory tract IgA antibody appeared to be more directly related to host resistance than was antibody in serum.
New Pharmacotherapy for Hepatitis C

Chronic hepatitis C infection remains a major global public health burden associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Recent advances in antiviral therapy with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the oral protease inhibitors boceprevir and telaprevir introduce a new era of treatment for hepatitis C based on directly acting antiviral agents, which are associated with significant improvements in viral eradication rates in combination with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin. Newer classes targeting the hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease, polymerase, NS5A, and other components of the viral genome demonstrate great promise to further enhance viral eradication with superior efficacy, improved tolerability, shorter duration of therapy, and diminished requirement for interferon. Current and future strategies for HCV pharmacotherapy are reviewed. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2012); 92 3, 294–305. doi:10.1038/clpt.2012.103
Molecular determinants of hyperosmotically activated NKCC1-mediated K+/K+ exchange.

Na+–K+–2Cl− cotransport (NKCC) mediates the movement of two Cl− ions for one Na+ and one K+ ion. Under isosmotic conditions or with activation of the kinases SPAK/WNK4, the NKCC1-mediated Cl− uptake in Xenopus laevis oocytes, as measured using 36Cl, is twice the value of K+ uptake, as determined using 86Rb. Under hyperosmotic conditions, there is a significant activation of the bumetanide-sensitive K+ uptake with only a minimal increase in bumetanide-sensitive Cl− uptake. This suggests that when stimulated by hypertonicity, the cotransporter mediates K+/K+ and Cl−/Cl− exchange. Although significant stimulation of K+/K+ exchange was observed with NKCC1, a significantly smaller hyperosmotic stimulatory effect was observed with NKCC2. In order to identify the molecular determinant(s) of this NKCC1-specific activation, we created chimeras of the mouse NKCC1 and the rat NKCC2. Swapping the regulatory amino termini of the cotransporters neither conferred activation to NKCC2 nor prevented activation of NKCC1. Using unique restrictions sites, we created additional chimeric molecules and determined that the first intracellular loop between membrane-spanning domains one and two and the second extracellular loop between membrane-spanning domains three and four of NKCC1 are necessary components of the hyperosmotic stimulation of K+/K+ exchange.
Effect of Laceration of Chopped Forage on Preservation and Feeding Value of Alfalfa-Orchardgrass Silage

Abstract Chopped alfalfa-orchardgrass forage was further lacterated to an almost pulpy consistency and compared with the same forage chopped by a conventional forage chopper. Experimental silages were stored in 3.05- by 12.19-m concrete stave tower silos. Lacerated silage had a lower ammoniacal nitrogen, butyric acid, and propionic acid content, and a higher per cent lactic acid in the top 20% of the silage than the chopped silage. There were no chemical differences in the bottom 80% of the silage, indicating that pressure within the lower part of the chopped silage mass probably acomplished an effect similar to the laceration process. There was no significant difference in the feeding value of the two silages.
Circulating IL-6 mediates lung injury via CXCL1 production after acute kidney injury in mice

Serum IL-6 is increased in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and is associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation and increased mortality. Inhibition of IL-6 in mice with AKI reduces lung injury associated with a reduction in the chemokine CXCL1 and lung neutrophils. Whether circulating IL-6 or locally produced lung IL-6 mediates lung injury after AKI is unknown. We hypothesized that circulating IL-6 mediates lung injury after AKI by increasing lung endothelial CXCL1 production and subsequent neutrophil infiltration. To test the role of circulating IL-6 in AKI-mediated lung injury, recombinant murine IL-6 was administered to IL-6-deficient mice. To test the role of CXCL1 in AKI-mediated lung injury, CXCL1 was inhibited by use of CXCR2-deficient mice and anti-CXCL1 antibodies in mice with ischemic AKI or bilateral nephrectomy. Injection of recombinant IL-6 to IL-6-deficient mice with AKI increased lung CXCL1 and lung neutrophils. Lung endothelial CXCL1 was increased after AKI. CXCR2-deficient and CXCL1 antibody-treated mice with ischemic AKI or bilateral nephrectomy had reduced lung neutrophil content. In summary, we demonstrate for the first time that circulating IL-6 is a mediator of lung inflammation and injury after AKI. Since serum IL-6 is increased in patients with either AKI or acute lung injury and predicts prolonged mechanical ventilation and increased mortality in both conditions, our data suggest that serum IL-6 is not simply a biomarker of poor outcomes but a pathogenic mediator of lung injury.
Advances in three-dimensional magnetotelluric modeling using integral equations

Recent progress in integral equation modeling of three‐dimensional magnetotelluric responses includes the ability to simulate 3-D structures which outcrop (excluding topography), which transect layer interfaces, and which extend indefinitely in one or more directions. The most important factor in achieving this capability is an accurate treatment of the electric surface charge. In particular, a previous integro‐difference formulation for evaluating charges has been abandoned in favor of true surface integrations over the source cells with potential differencing across the field cells in the 3-D body. The new procedure constitutes a good approximation to Galerkin’s method while preserving internal consistency in terms of pulse basis functions. To verify outcropping structures, juxtaposed conductive and resistive prisms at the surface are simulated and compared to 2-D results. An elongate version of the 3-D model shows good agreement with both transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes of the 2-D res...
The Role of Depression and Negative Affect Regulation Expectancies in Tobacco Smoking Among College Students

Objective: Expectancies about nicotine's ability to alleviate negative mood states may play a role in the relationship between smoking and depression. The authors examined the role of negative affect regulation expectancies as a potential mediator of depression (history of depression and depressive symptoms) and smoking among college students. Participants and Methods: As part of a larger study, 315 undergraduate smokers completed a 296-item survey from January to May of 2001 and 2002. Results: Cross-sectional analyses revealed that negative affect regulation expectancies fully mediated the positive relationship between depressive symptoms and level of smoking. Conclusions: Although depressive symptoms are associated with higher levels of tobacco smoking, the expectation that smoking will reduce negative emotions is 1 factor that accounts for this relationship.
Application of the Structured Life‐Review Technique in Counseling Elders

Reminiscence, termed life review, is a natural phenomenon of aging. This article examines the applications of a structured life-review technique in counseling elderly clients.
Gestational weight gain and obesity, adiposity and body size in African-American and Dominican children in the Bronx and Northern Manhattan.

Gestational weight gain (GWG) is potentially modifiable and is associated with infant size and body composi- tion; however, long-term effects on childhood obesity have not been reported among multi-ethnic urban populations. We examined the association between GWG and child anthropometric measures and body com- position at 7 years (waist circumference (WC), body mass index z-score (BMIZ), obesity (BMIZ ≥95%ile) and bioelectrical impedance analysis estimates of percentage body fat (%fat)) in African-American and Dominican dyads (n = 323) in the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health prospective birth cohort study from 1998 to 2013. Linear and logistic regression evaluated associations between excessive GWG (>Institute of Medicine (IOM) 2009 guidelines) and outcomes,adjusting for pre-pregnancy BMI and covariates.Pre-pregnancy BMI (mean ± standard deviation, all such values) and total GWG were 25.8 ± 6.2 kg m 2 (45% overweight/ obese) and 16.4 ± 7.9 kg (64% > IOM guidelines), respectively. Excessive GWG was associated with higher BMIZ {0.44 (95% confidence interval (CI):0.2,0.7),P < 0.001},WC (β:2.9 cm (95% CI:1.1,4.6),P = 0.002),%fat at 7 years (β: 2.2% (95% CI: 1.0, 3.5), P = 0.001)) and obesity (odds ratio: 2.93 (95% CI: 1.5, 5.8), P = 0.002). Pre-pregnancy BMI was positively associated with child size, adiposity and obesity (all P < 0.05). Excessive GWG was highly prevalent and was associated with child obesity, greater percentage body fat and abdominal adiposity. Strategies to support healthy GWG are warranted to promote healthy growth and prevent childhood obesity.
Synthesis and Duplex‐Stabilizing Properties of Fluorinated N‐Methanocarbathymidine Analogues Locked in the C3′‐endo Conformation

The efficient synthesis, antiviral activity, and duplex-stabilizing properties of both isomers of the 2'-fluoro analogue of Northern methanocarbathymidine (N-MCT), 2 and 3, are reported. We show that 2'-F incorporation on the N-MCT scaffold has a strong stabilizing effect on duplex thermal stability.
Unsteady free-surface wave-induced separation: analysis of turbulent structures using detached eddy simulation and single-phase level set

Turbulent structures of the unsteady free-surface wave-induced separation around a surface-piercing NACA0024 are studied using a detached-eddy simulation with a single-phase level set method. Quantitative verification and validation show good agreement with experimental data. Instantaneous and mean flows show an owl-type separation with the same instability frequencies identified by unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes. Anisotropy invariant maps show that turbulence is anisotropic in the middle of the separation region and is at a two-component state near the foil surface. The turbulent kinetic energy and its budget have similarities to that of a separated turbulent boundary layer near the toe and a backward-facing step flow in the recirculation region, but with large three-dimensional and free-surface effects. The free-surface damps velocity and pressure fluctuations and moves the peaks of turbulence quantities from the high-speed to the low-speed side of the free shear layer.
Preparation of ansa-Niobocene and ansa-Tantalocene Olefin Hydride Complexes as Transition State Analogues in Metallocene-Catalyzed Olefin Polymerization

To examine the effects of cyclopentadienyl and olefin substitution on preferred stereochemistry, a series of singly [SiMe2]-bridged ansa-niobocene and -tantalocene olefin hydride complexes has been prepared via reduction and alkylation of the corresponding dichloride complexes. In this manner, [Me2Si(η5-C5H4)(η5-C5H3-3-R)]M(CH2CHR‘)H (M = Nb, Ta; R = CHMe2, CMe3; R‘ = H, C6H5; M = Ta; R = CHMe2, CMe3; R‘ = Me), rac- and meso-[Me2Si(η5-C5H3-3-R)(η5-C5H3-3-R)]Nb(CH2CH2)H (R = CMe3), and [Me2Si(η5-C5H4)(η5-C5H2-2,4-(CHMe2)2)]Ta(CH2CHR‘)H (R‘ = H, C6H5) have been prepared and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and, in some cases, X-ray diffraction. The doubly [SiMe2]-bridged ansa-tantalocene ethylene hydride complex [(1,2-SiMe2)2(η5-C5H-3,5-(CHMe2)2)(η5-C5H2-4-CMe3)]Ta(CH2CH2)H has been prepared from thermolysis of the methylidene methyl complex [(1,2-SiMe2)2(η5-C5H-3,5-(CHMe2)2)(η5-C5H2-4-CMe3)]Ta(CH2)CH3. Addition of an excess of propylene or styrene to the tantalocene ethylene hydride results in olefin exch...
Functional comparison of hemoglobin purified by different methods and their biophysical implications

Hemoglobin (Hb) that is purified from red blood cells (RBCs) is commonly subjected to harsh processing conditions, such as high temperatures and extensive column separation, which may damage the Hb by altering the heme prosthetic group and/or the Hb protein structure. In this study, bovine and human Hb purified by tangential flow filtration (TFF) was compared to commercial preparations of human Hb (Hemosol, Inc., Toronto, Canada) and bovine Hb (Biopure, Inc., Cambridge, MA). Purified Hbs were characterized by measuring their overall purity (SDS-PAGE, SEC, and ESI-MS), susceptibility to oxidation (k(ox)), responses to physiological conditions (pH, [Cl(-)], [IHP], and T), and ligand binding kinetics (O(2), NO, and CO). All Hbs evaluated possessed comparable biophysical properties, however, a small amount of catalase was detected in the TFF-purified Hbs that reduced the rate of autoxidation. Mass changes observed by mass spectrometry suggest that structural alterations may be introduced into Hbs that are purified by extensive chromatographic separations. These results demonstrate that TFF is a suitable process for the purification of Hb from RBCs with a quality equivalent to that of commercial Hb preparations that employ more extensive purification strategies. This work also shows that TFF can yield highly pure Hb which can be used for Hb-based O(2) carrier synthesis.
A Language for a Scientific and Engineering Database System

Databases are an important part of many Computer Assisted Design (CAD) applications. Real world knowledge is often defined by a database which is managed by a database system. Unlike most traditional database applications, the CAD process involves significant amounts of scientific and engineering computation on database contents to produce a result. Existing standalone language database systems often cannot meet this computational need. Users can either forego the use of a database system and its conveniences or interface conventional Procedure Oriented Language (POL) programs to database systems for the computational work. This paper describes EXTRAS, a relational algebra query language with extensions for numerical computation. This language has the advantages of a unified approach to computation and database query capabilities and of offering a high level language for numerical computation based on relations.
Defining the role of immunotherapy and radioimmunotherapy in the treatment of low-grade lymphoma.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW To critically assess recent advances in the treatment of indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma with a focus on immunologically based therapies. RECENT FINDINGS Modern treatment strategies, including monoclonal antibodies targeting lymphoma-associated antigens, radioimmunotherapy, therapeutic vaccination and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, have the potential to profoundly impact clinical outcomes in indolent lymphoma therapy. The results of randomized phase III trials now indicate that the addition of rituximab to combination chemotherapy prolongs progression-free and overall survival compared to chemotherapy alone. It is anticipated that similar improvements in outcomes will be associated with other immunologic strategies. SUMMARY Many questions remain unanswered regarding the optimal treatment approach for patients with indolent lymphoma. Randomized phase III trials addressing the key issues in patient management are ongoing. Continued follow-up of treated patients will be required to assess the character and frequency of long-term toxicities, and to provide insights into the best sequencing of treatments. It is likely that combinations of new treatment strategies will have the greatest impact on long-term clinical outcome. New insights into the underlying biology of the indolent lymphomas are anticipated to help guide therapy for individual patients and to provide new therapeutic targets.
A poly-framed LDD sub-half-micrometer CMOS technology

A novel LDD spacer technology that uses disposable silicon nitride spacers on a sacrificial polysilicon frame has been developed for a sub-half-micrometer CMOS technology. An improvement in short-channel behavior is achieved due to a reduction in lateral LDD n/sup -/ and p/sup -/ diffusion, and the effect of substrate bias on the drain junction leakage caused by sidewall spacer formation is eliminated. The DC hot-carrier lifetime for the 0.3- mu m-channel-length poly-framed LDD NMOS devices, defined as the time associated with a 10% shift in peak transconductance, is in excess of 10 years for a power supply voltage of 3.3 V. >
Motion estimation from noisy image data

The problem of motion estimation is formalized as a problem in nonlinear optimization. The algorithm is based on modeling the displacement fields as Markov random fields. The Markov random fields-Gibbs distribution equivalence is used to convert the problem into one of finding an appropriate energy function that describes the motion fields. Mean field annealing, a technique for finding the global minima in nonconvex optimization problems, is used to minimize the Hamiltonian. The estimated displacement vector fields are accurate, even for scenes containing noise of intensity discontinuities. >
Admission screening for secondhand tobacco smoke exposure.

Objectives: Secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure is an important and preventable cause of mortality and morbidity among children; hospitalization represents a sentinel event that may offer opportunities for intervention. The goal of this study was to determine the frequency and validity of SHS exposure screenings by emergency department (ED) providers, residents, and nurses. Methods: A total of 140 inpatient pediatric families consented to a salivary cotinine measurement, in-person SHS exposure interview, and chart review to assess ED provider, pediatric resident, and nurse SHS exposure screenings and documentation validity. Results: ED providers documented screening for SHS exposure 46% of the time, pediatric residents 42% of the time, and nurses 79% of the time. ED providers, pediatric residents, and nurses reported 18%, 38%, and 12% of patients exposed to SHS, respectively, whereas 46% of patients were identified as smoke-exposed according to cotinine level and/or parent report. Those with SHS exposure outside the home were least likely to be identified as exposed. Conclusions: The majority of smoke-exposed children were not identified as exposed based on documentation of admission screenings. Future research is important to identify accurate and efficient methods of screening for and identifying SHS exposure among children admitted to the hospital.
A Framework for Training Public Health Practitioners in Crisis Decision-Making

Three sets of issues tend to be overlooked in public health emergency preparedness and response, which can be addressed with new training protocols. The first issue is procedural and concerns the often intuitive (as opposed to deliberative) nature of effective crisis decision-making. The second issue is substantive and pertains to the incorporation and prioritization of ethical, political, and logistical concerns in public health emergency guidelines. The third issue is affective and concerns human feelings and human frailty, which can derail the most well designed and best practiced procedural and substantive approaches to emergency response. This article offers an outline for a decision-making framework for public health emergencies that addresses and incorporates these issues within relevant guidelines and training.
Hematologic manifestations of systemic disease.

The wide range of systemic disorders covered in this article includes infections, collagen disease, congenital heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, endocrine disease, inherited disorders, and poisoning.
Life Cycle and Behavior of Muscidifurax zaraptor (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)

A complete life table was constructed for the parasitoid, Muscidifurax zaraptor , and the major statistics of it are reported. The intrinsic rate of increase (rmax) was 0.195; generation time, T, was 26 days. Four larval instars were determined by head capsule measurements. High numbers of ♀ progeny were produced early in adult life, peaking at 24 days and 32 days and then declining until death at 53 days. A significant level of discrimination during oviposition against parasitized hosts occurred. Host age had an effect on both the number and size of progeny produced. Biological attributes support the classification of M. zaraptor as a low fecundity, highly competitive species.