cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2J2 gene transfection attenuates MMP‐9 via inhibition of NF‐κβ in hyperhomocysteinemia

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is associated with atherosclerotic events involving the modulation of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism and the activation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenase-2J2 (CYP2J2) is abundant in the heart endothelium, and its AA metabolites epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) mitigates inflammation through NF-kappabeta. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms for MMP-9 regulation by CYP2J2 in HHcy remain obscure. We sought to determine the molecular mechanisms by which P450 epoxygenase gene transfection or EETs supplementation attenuate homocysteine (Hcy)-induced MMP-9 activation. CYP2J2 was over-expressed in mouse aortic endothelial cells (MAECs) by transfection with the pcDNA3.1/CYP2J2 vector. The effects of P450 epoxygenase transfection or exogenous supplementation of EETs on NF-kappabeta-mediated MMP-9 regulation were evaluated using Western blot, in-gel gelatin zymography, electromobility shift assay, immunocytochemistry. The result suggested that Hcy downregulated CYP2J2 protein expression and dephosphorylated PI3K-dependent AKT signal. Hcy induced the nuclear translocation of NF-kappabeta via downregulation of IKbetaalpha (endogenous cytoplasmic inhibitor of NF-kappabeta). Hcy induced MMP-9 activation by increasing NF-kappabeta-DNA binding. Moreover, P450 epoxygenase transfection or exogenous addition of 8,9-EET phosphorylated the AKT and attenuated Hcy-induced MMP-9 activation. This occurred, in part, by the inhibition of NF-kappabeta nuclear translocation, NF-kappabeta-DNA binding and activation of IKbetaalpha. The study unequivocally suggested the pivotal role of EETs in the modulation of Hcy/MMP-9 signal.
Testican-1 promotes resistance against Pseudomonas aeruginosa-induced keratitis through regulation of MMP-2 expression and activation.

PURPOSE. Testican-1 (or SPOCK) is a highly conserved chimeric proteoglycan encoded by the SPOCK1 gene. Protease regulatory activity has recently been demonstrated by this molecule and its family members testican-2 and -3. The present study tested the hypothesis that testican-1 regulates corneal matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 expression, thus improving disease outcome after Pseudomonas aeruginosa–induced keratitis. METHODS. C57BL/6 (B6) and BALB/c mice were routinely infected with P. aeruginosa and were evaluated at various postinfection (pi) times for corneal expression of testican-1 and MMP-2, by PCR array, real-time RT-PCR, ELISA, activity assays, zymography, and immunohistochemistry. Next, B6 mice were treated with recombinant human (rh) testican-1, and expression was knocked down in BALB/c ice by siTestican-1 treatment, to determine the relationship between the two molecules. RESULTS. BALB/c versus B6 mice expressed significantly higher mRNA and protein levels of testican-1 after P. aeruginosainduced ocular infection. MMP-2 expression and activation was also disparate between the two mouse strains. After rhTestican-1 treatment in B6 mice, overall disease response was significantly improved, whereas siRNA treatment of BALB/c mice converted the normally resistant response to susceptible. Testican-1 was shown to influence MMP-2 expression, activation, and regulation, as well. CONCLUSIONS. This study demonstrates corneal expression of testican-1 and its temporal regulation of MMP-2 expression and activation after induction of bacterial keratitis. Furthermore, the data collectively indicate that testican-1 is a novel target for disease treatment to promote better disease outcome regarding chronic inflammation and infection and diseases involving pathologic tissue destruction. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2011;52:5339 –5346) DOI:10.1167/iovs.10-6920
Reliability and Concurrent Validity of the Sternberg Triangular Love Scale

This study was conducted to assess the reliability and concurrent validity of the Sternberg Triangular Love Scale. From introductory courses in psychology 90 students who were currently involved in...
Theory and implementation of the sine-Gabor wavelet frame

We unify two widely used image processing kernels, a Gaussian's first derivative (Canny's step edge detector) and the modulated Gaussian, by introducing a nonorthogonal wavelet family: the sine-Gabor functions. This parametrized wavelet trades off frame rightness and time-frequency localization; generating a `snug' frame of Gaussian's first derivatives and a `loose' frame of modulated Gaussians with nearly optimum time-frequency localization (easily tightened using voices). We review the discretization of the wavelet transform and its efficient computation when using nonorthogonal wavelets. We show that there exists wavelets (including the sine-Gabor function) for which the discrete wavelet transform is not invertible, describe how to evade this problem by modifying the strategy for selecting discrete filters, and show for the sine-Gabor wavelet that desirable properties such as constant phase and time- frequency localization are preserved by the alternative filters.
Anomalous structural evolution and liquid fragility signatures in Cu-Zr and Cu-Hf liquids and glasses

Abstract The results of high energy X-ray scattering studies of equilibrium and supercooled Cu 100− x Zr x ( x = 46 and 54) and Cu x Hf 100− x ( x = 55 and 60.8) liquids and the corresponding glasses are presented. The liquid data were obtained in a containerless environment using the beamline electrostatic levitation (BESL) technique. The total structure factor and total pair correlation functions were measured as a function of temperature for the liquids, and for the glasses at room temperature. A developing asymmetry in the peak of the first coordination shell in the total pair correlation function suggests chemical ordering in the liquids with cooling. This asymmetry takes the form of two prominent peaks, suggesting two prominent ordering length scales. When the magnitudes of these peaks are extrapolated to the glass transition temperature a discontinuity is observed, indicating that an abrupt increase in the magnitude is required to match the observed peak heights in the glass. This suggests that the structure of the supercooled liquid orders more rapidly near the glass transition temperature, a conclusion that is supported by molecular dynamics simulations. This observed structural evolution of the liquid indicates that the concept of fragility, typically defined from the behavior of viscosity with temperature, has a measurable structural signature as well, which can be observed in X-ray diffraction studies.
PREDATION BY SYCANUS INDAGATOR ON LARVAE OF GALLERIA MELLONELLA AND SPODOPTERA FRUGIPERDA1

Sycanus indagator (Stal), a reduviid predator imported from India, preferred greater wax moth larvae (Galleria mellonella (L.)), to larvae of the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)) when given a choice in the laboratory. Feeding to satiation by S. indagator appears to be intermittent rather than a sustained process. Linear regressions of the observed number of prey attacked on predicted number attacked using Holling's (1966) formula revealed a significant correlation after 5 days, but not after 8 days, of predator starvation. All feeding response parameters monitored for the predators inferred a general reduction in the capture and prey consumption activities after extended (8-day) starvation. Weight loss by satiated S. indagator occurred as a cyclic process with the highest % weight loss taking place during the first 8 hr. S. indagator lost 65% of their total body weight by the end of a 184-hr starvation period. Resume LA PREDATION PAR SYCANUS INDAGATOR SUR LES LARVES DE GALLERIA MELLONELLA ET SPODOPTERA FRUGIPERDA Sycanus indagator, (Hemiptera: Reduviidae), predateur imporTE de l'Inde, prefere les larves de Galleria mellonella aux larves de Spodoptera frugiperda lorsqu'on lui donne le choix, au laboratoire. S. indagator semble s'alimenter de faĉon intermittente plutot que de faĉon continue. La regression lineaire du nombre de proies effectivement attaquees par rapport au nombre prevu d'apres la formule de Hollings (1966) a revele une correlation significative apres 5 jours de jeune, mais pas apres 8 jours de jeune. En ce qui concerne les reactions des predateurs a l'egard des proies, les parametres etudies ont permis de constater une diminution generale dans les activiTEs de capture et de consommation des proies apres un jeune prolonge (8 jours). La perte de poids chez un S. indagator rassasie est un processus cyclique, le pourcentage de perte le plus eleve se produisant durant les 8 premieres heures. S. indagator avait perdu 65% de son poids corporel total a la fin d'une periode de jeune de 184 heures.
Stimulation of avoidance behavior by buprenorphine in rats.

The effects of buprenorphine and morphine on rates and temporal patterns of avoidance responding were studied in rats. Responding was maintained under a schedule of electric shock avoidance with 30-s response-shock and shock-shock intervals during 4-h sessions. Morphine (0.3–3.0 mg/kg) increased response rates, but a dose of 10 mg/kg disrupted bar pressing. Buprenorphine increased response rates (0.003–0.03 mg/kg) and produced maximal effects that plateaued over a greater than 300-fold dose range (0.03–10 mg/kg). Disruption of bar pressing was not observed with buprenorphine. Both drugs also produced dose-related shifts in the interresponse time distribution toward increased conditional probabilities of shorter interresponse times. Morphine (10 mg/kg) and buprenorphine (0.3–10 mg/kg) virtually abolished the temporal patterning of responding in that the conditional probability of a response occurring in any ‘class interval’ from 0.5 to 25.5 s was close to 0.5. These results demonstrate that lower doses of buprenorphine and morphine produce similar effects on avoidance behavior in rats. At higher doses, the effects of morphine differ from those of buprenorphine in that morphine disrupts bar pressing behavior, whereas the rate-increasing effects of buprenorphine platcau over a broad dose range.
Behavioral treatment of the traumatically brain-injured: a case study

The present case illustrates the application of behavioral modification methodology with a traumatically brain-injured adult. Such a treatment regime utilizing a report-card system and a response-cost procedure was implemented to decrease behaviors of using foul language and biting staff members. Dramatic improvement was demonstrated.
Shear‐velocity structure from regionalized surface‐wave dispersion in the basin and range

Lateral variations of shear velocity structure in the western United States are studied using observations of Rayleigh- and Love-wave phase velocity dispersion. We measured Rayleigh-wave dispersion in the 6-60 sec period range on over 80 paths using both single- and two-station methods. Love-wave dispersion was also measured on about 50 paths. A pure-path regionalization method employing a block-province grid is used to determine lateral variations of dispersion in the Basin and Range and adjacent geologic regions. Structural inversions of the regionalized Rayleigh-wave dispersion curves indicate significant lateral variations in the crust and upper mantle structure of the Basin and Range and transition areas. A pronounced low-velocity zone in the upper mantle is found under the Eureka heat flow province in the central Basin and Range. The lithospheric thickness in this province is 45 km in contrast to the Great Basin model of Priestley and Brune (1978; approx.65 km). Regionalization of Love-wave data, together with the Rayleigh-wave results, suggest the existence of polarization anisotropy in many areas of the Basin and Range. If verified, anisotropy must be accounted for in phase velocity inversions for the structure of the Basin and Range.
A microprocessor-controlled rate controller for use in cryopreservation.

The design and operation of a microprocessor-controlled rate controller incorporated into a constant-rate cooling system used in the cryopreservation of cells is described. The controller differs from those currently available in that the actual temperature of the cell suspension being cooled is compared with a preselected ramp of the microprocessor. Differences between the two determine the opening of solenoid valves that permit entry of liquid N2 vapors into the freezing chamber. The heat of fusion, which is released as extracellular ice crystallizes, automates the opening of additional solenoid valves. The rapid entry of N2 vapors into the chamber cools the cell suspension, therefore restoring the programmed cooling rate. The functional recovery of murine splenic lymphocytes cooled at −1.0 °C/min using this system exceeds the recoveries given in most other reports.
Microtubules in Brain Homogenates

Microtubules from neurons are preserved in homogenates of mammalian brain by medium containing organic solvents at acidic pH. By means of negative staining and electron microscopy, the relative con...
Validation of a bioelectrical impedance analysis equation to predict appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM).

Abstract Rationale: Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) is useful in the evaluation of nutritional status because it reflects the body muscle protein mass. The purpose of this study was to validate, against dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), a BIA equation to predict ASMM to be used in volunteers and patients. Method: Healthy men (n = 246 men, BMI 25.3±2.9 kg/m2) and women (n =198, 24.1±3.6 kg/m2), and heart, lung and liver transplant patients (213 men, BMI of 24.6±4.4 kg/m2; 113 women, BMI 23.0±5.2 kg/m2) were measured by BIA (Xitron Technologies) and DEXA (Hologic QDR 4500). A BIA equation to predict ASMM (kg) that included height2/resistance, weight, gender, age and reactance, was developed by means of multiple regressions. Results: Men Women ASMM (kg) DEXA BIA DEXA BIA Volunteers 25.8±3.6 25.7±3.4 17.3±2.5 17.2±2.4 Patients 22.1±2.8 22.6±3.5* 15.2±2.8 15.2±3.0 Mean±SD, paired t-test between BIA and DXA * P Mean difference (Bland-Altman) for volunteers was 0.1±1.1 kg, r =0.95, SEE 1.12 kg and for patients −0.4±1.5 kg, r =0.91, SEE 1.5 kg.Best fitted multiple regression equation was −4.211 + (0.267×height2 / resistance) + (0.095×weight)+(1.909×sex (men = 1, women = 0)) + (−0.012×age) + (0.058×reactance). Conclusions: BIA permits the prediction of ASMM in healthy volunteers and patients between 22 and 94 years of age. A slightly larger, though clinically not significant, error was noted in patients.
Trade and sorcery accusations in East Africa

Gerald W. Hartwig. The Art of Survival in East Africa: The Kerebe and Long‐Distance Trade 1800–1895. New York: Holmes & Meier Publishers, Inc. Africana Publishing Company, 1976. Maps, appendix, references, and index. $24.00.
Allogeneic human tissue-engineered blood vessel

Background Arterial bypass graft implantation remains the primary therapy for patients with advanced cardiovascular disease; however, there is no available synthetic small-diameter vascular graft. Methods Tissue-engineered vessels were grown from human smooth muscle cells that were seeded on a biodegradable scaffold using a biomimetic perfusion system. The human tissue-engineered vessels (hTEV) were decellularized by a two-step process using a combination of detergents and hypertonic solutions. The mechanical characteristics were assessed by suture retention strength and burst pressure. The decellularized hTEV were implanted as aortic interpositional grafts in nude rats to evaluate in vivo performance as an arterial graft over a 6-week period. Results The human tissue-engineered structure formed a vessel composed of smooth muscle cells and the extracellular matrix proteins, including collagen. After decellularization, the collagen matrix remained intact while the cellular components were removed. The mechanical strength of the hTEV after decellularization was similar to human vein in vitro, with a burst pressure of 1,567 ± 384 mm Hg (n = 3) versus 1,680 ± 307 mm Hg for human saphenous vein. The hTEVs had a high patency rate (four of five grafts) without evidence of rupture or aneurysm over a 6-week period as an aortic interpositional graft in a nude rat model. Histologic analysis showed a thin neointima with a confluent endothelium and a subendothelial layer of smooth muscle cells on the explanted tissue-engineered vessels. Transmission electron microscopy on the explanted tissue demonstrated elastin formation in the neointima and intact residual collagen fibers from the tissue-engineered vessel. Conclusions The hTEV had a high patency rate and remained mechanically stable as an aortic interpositional graft in a nude rat. The vessel supported the growth of a neointima with endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. The host remodeling suggested the engineered matrix had a positive effect to create a regenerated vascular graft.
Was a carbon balance measured in the equatorial Pacific during JGOFS

Abstract The likelihood that the carbon fluxes measured as part of the US-JGOFS field program in the equatorial Pacific ocean (EgPac) during 1992 yielded a balanced carbon budget for the surface ocean was determined. The major carbon fluxes incorporated into a surface carbon budget were: new production, particulate organic carbon (POC) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) export, CaC0 3 export, C0 2 gas evasion, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) supply, and the time rate of charge. The ratio of the measured concentration gradients of DOC and DIC provided a constraint on the ratio of POC/DOC export. Uncertainties of ±30–50% for individual carbon flux measurements reduce the likelihood that a carbon balance can be measured during a JGOFS process-type study. As a benchmark, carbon fluxes were prescribed to yield a hypothetical surface carbon budget that was, on average, balanced. Given the typical errors in the individual carbon fluxes, however, there was only about a 30% chance that this hypothetical budget could be measured to be balanced to ±50%. Using this benchmark, it was determined that there was a ∼ 95 % chance that the carbon flux measurements yielded a surface DIC budget balanced (to ±50%) during El Nino conditions in boreal spring 1992, when the total organic carbon export rate was - 5 mmol C m-2 day- 1 and the POC export was ∼ 3 mmol C m −2 day −1 . In boreal fall 1992, during cold period conditions, there was a ∼70% chance that the surface carbon DIC budget was balanced when the total organic carbon export rate was ∼ 20 mmol C m −2 day −1 and export was -13 mmol C m-2 day-'. The DOC to DIC concentration gradient ratio of - -0.15, measured in depth profiles down to 100m and in surface waters, was used as an important constraint that most (> 70%) of the organic carbon exported from the euphotic zone was POC rather than DOC. If a balanced surface DIC budget was used to test the compatibility of individual carbon fluxes measured during EgPac, then a three- to four-fold increase in total and particulate organic carbon export between spring and fall is indicated. This increase was not reflected in the POC loss rates measured by drifting sediment trap collections or estimated by 234 Th deficiencies coupled with the C/Th measured on suspended particles.
U.S. Earthquake Observatories: Recommendations for a New National Network

This publication summarizes recommendations of the NAS/NRC Panel on National, Regional, and Local Seismograph Networks, chaired by B.A. Bolt. The report's nine chapters and seven appendices deal with recommendations to upgrade and reorganize observational seismology in the United States by integrating all seismic stations in the country into a United States Seismograph System (USSS), by constructing a National Digital Seismograph Network (NDSN), and by establishing new lines of authority and responsibility to ensure that development of the new national seismic system proceeds along lines prescribed by the panel.
Age-related decreases in dopamine receptors in the caudate nucleus and putamen of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta)

Specific binding of the dopamine receptor ligand 3H-spiroperidol to cell membranes prepared from the caudate nuclei and putamens of 29 rhesus monkeys (M. mulatta), ranging in age from 2 to 22 years, was investigated. Receptor concentration (BMAX) decreased in the caudate nucleus and putamen with age at mean rates of 2.1 and 1.7% per year, respectively, whereas binding affinity (Kd) did not change significantly with age. The rate of decline in BMAX appeared to be more rapid before adulthood and in old age than during young adulthood and middle age. These data are compared with the results from similar studies of other animal species including human, rabbit, rat, and mouse. The rate of decline in striatal dopamine receptors is closely related to the rate of aging and maximal life span of the species. It may reflect both maturational and senescent processes modifying the behavior of animals as they age.
Acute mastoiditis in children: presentation and long term consequences.

UNLABELLED Acute mastoiditis, a destructive bacterial infection of the mastoid bone and air cell system, is relatively uncommon today but remains a potentially serious condition. There is a lack of information in the literature regarding the long term otological problems that children may face following an episode of this condition. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to examine the presentation, complications and hospital course in this patient population, and to ascertain whether these patients had long term otological problems. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients presenting with acute mastoiditis between January 1990 and December 2005. Patients' parents were contacted by telephone and questioned about further otological problems. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients were included in the study, and 27 of these patients' parents were contactable to complete the telephone questionnaire. Sixty-nine per cent of children had no previous history of acute otitis media prior to presentation. Forty-five per cent of patients had received oral antibiotics prior to presentation. Sixty-two per cent of patients developed complications, i.e. a subperiosteal abscess or failure to respond to medical therapy, resulting in the need for surgical intervention (in the form of incision and drainage of periosteal abscess, cortical mastoidectomy, or grommet insertion). Mean follow up of patients was eight years and one month; five (17 per cent) patients had been followed up for less than one year. Two (7 per cent) patients developed a further episode of mastoiditis within six weeks of initial presentation, both of whom required cortical mastoidectomy. Three (10 per cent) patients had further problems with recurrent acute otitis media, requiring tympanostomy tube insertion. One patient required a modified radical mastoidectomy for cholesteatoma (15 years later). Twenty-two patients (91 per cent) had been followed up for longer than one year; these patients had subjectively normal hearing and were asymptomatic at the time of study. CONCLUSION The majority of patients who had suffered an episode of acute mastoiditis had no adverse long term otological sequelae.
Calcium Adsorption on MgO(100): Energetics, Structure, and Role of Defects

The adsorption of Ca on the MgO(100) surface at 300 K has been studied using microcalorimetry, in combination with LEED, AES, ISS, work function, sticking probability measurements, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The MgO(100) thin films (∼4 nm thick) were grown epitaxially on a 1 μm thick Mo(100) single-crystal. The sticking probability of Ca on MgO(100) at 300 K is unity. On the basis of AES and ISS measurements, it was determined that Ca grows mainly as 3D particles on the MgO(100) surface with a density of ∼1 × 1012 islands/cm2. Ca adsorbs initially at defect sites with a very high heat of adsorption (∼410 kJ/mol). DFT calculations attribute this high initial heat to Ca binding to kink sites (376 kJ/mol), step sites (205 kJ/mol), and lower concentrations of stronger binding sites. The heat of adsorption decreases rapidly with coverage, reaching a minimum of 162 kJ/mol at ∼0.3 ML, where Ca is mainly adding to small 3D Ca clusters. Afterward, it increases to the value of bulk Ca heat of...
Clinical engineering: Evolution of a discipline

The incredible pace of technological innovation in the field of medical care has driven the development of modern, technologically sophisticated healthcare centers. As a result, engineering professionals have been increasingly drawn into the healthcare system to manage, develop, and maintain the medical devices and systems which these centers employ for the effective delivery of healthcare services. The continued advances and applications of medical technology have created a new and growing profession — clinical engineering — which relatively is still in the process of evolution. This paper presents some insights regarding the history and future direction of this discipline.
Heavy-ion damage of an amorphous metallic alloy

Abstract A Ni base amorphous alloy BN12 (Ni69.2Cr6.6Si13.7B7.9Fe2.6 supplied by Allied Corporation), with its shiny surface polished and covered with a 20–30 nm Al film to avoid contamination and sputtering, was irradiated with 70 MeV Ni+6 ions at a dose of about 10 16 cm 2 . The Al film was removed by 2 g NaOH dissolved in 1 liter water solution. A Dektak surface profilometer showed surface swelling of the irradiated spot by about 200 nm surrounded by higher ridges. Optical and scanning electron microscopic observations revealed considerable roughness within the irradiated spot. Annealing for 3 h at each 50 K. increment of temperature between 500 and 800 K did not remove the swelling. However, transmission electron microscopic studies gave no indication of voids. It seems that swelling may not associate with structural damage. This important possibility is discussed in the light of generation and disappearance of point defects.
Inequality and Intermarriage: A Paradox of Motive and Constraint

The widely varied meanings of the term "social structure" rob it of usefulness. Following Durkheim, social structure should refer to extra-individuial, positively ascertainable social facts that exert constraint on individuals. We examine the impact of inequality on association, specifically on marriage within and among social strata. The constraint that inequality exerts on intermarriage is less obvious than the notion that inequality increases the motive for status homogamy. A mathematical model, derived in the Appendix, indicates, however, that inequality constrains people to marry unequals. Data for 125 SMSAs for intermarriage with respect to education, socioeconomic index, and income show that the model works well for education and socioeconomic index. The paradox of structure and constraint is that greater structural inequality is imported into the pair relations among population members in the face of empirically evident aversion to relations bridging status distance. Inequality is antagonistic to homogamy. The notion of social structure has been used in so many ways that its meaning is deeply shrouded. One key intellectual function of the notion sustains its continued utility. Above all, social structure refers to constraints that collective life imposes on the individual. Although individual choices may create or sustain structures, those structures are the inescapable framework within which choices are made. This notion of structure may be traced to Durkheim. For all his concern with the moral and the sacred, he was a social realist and a positivist. The division of labor, for example, is a structural reality that imposes limitations on the individuals embedded in it. It is a reality that can
Spin – orbit DFT with analytic gradients and applications to heavy element compounds

We have implemented the unrestricted DFT approach with one-electron spin – orbit operators in the massively parallel NWChem program. Also implemented is the analytic gradient in the DFT approach with spin – orbit interactions. The current capabilities include single-point calculations and geometry optimization. Vibrational frequencies can be calculated numerically from the analytically calculated gradients. The implementation is based on the spin – orbit interaction operator derived from the effective core potential approach. The exchange functionals used in the implementation are functionals derived for nonspin – orbit calculations, including GGA as well as hybrid functionals . Spin – orbit Hartree – Fock calculations can also be carried out. We have applied the spin – orbit DFT methods to the Uranyl aqua complexes. We have optimized the structures and calculated the vibrational frequencies of both ( UO2 2+ ) aq and ( UO2+) aq with and without spin – orbit effects. The effects of the spin – orbit interaction on the structures and frequencies of these two complexes are discussed. We also carried out calculations for Th2 , and several low-lying electronic states are calculated. Our results indicate that, for open-shell systems, there are signifi cant effects due to the spin – orbit effects and the electronic confi gurations with and without spin – orbit interactions could change due to the occupation of orbitals of larger spin – orbit interactions.
Diphenhydramine Overdose with Intraventricular Conduction Delay Treated with Hypertonic Sodium Bicarbonate and IV Lipid Emulsion

Diphenhydramine toxicity commonly manifests with antimuscarinic features, including dry mucous membranes, tachycardia, urinary retention, mydriasis, tachycardia, and encephalopathy. Severe toxicity can include seizures and intraventricular conduction delay. We present here a case of a 23-year-old male presenting with recurrent seizures, hypotension and wide complex tachycardia who had worsening toxicity despite treatment with sodium bicarbonate. The patient was ultimately treated with intravenous lipid emulsion therapy that was temporally associated with improvement in the QRS duration. We also review the current literature that supports lipid use in refractory diphenhydramine toxicity.
Model study of the cross‐frontal water exchange on Georges Bank: A three‐dimensional Lagrangian experiment

[1] Characteristics of the cross-frontal water exchange over Georges Bank are investigated through a sequence of numerical model experiments featuring realistic three-dimensional (3-D) bathmetry, bi-monthly averaged climatological stratification, tidal forcing, and mean and observed wind-forcing. The model used in this study is the ECOM-si version of the Blumberg and Mellor [1987] primitive equation model with Mellor-Yamada [1982] level 2.5 turbulence closure. The model domain includes Georges Bank and the Gulf of Maine, and is forced at the open ocean boundary by the semidurnal M2 tide. Fluid particles were tracked in the 3-D, time-dependent Eulerian flow field to examine the Lagrangian flow field, and passive tracer experiments were conducted to investigate the relative roles of advection and turbulent diffusion on cross-frontal exchange. Two distinct paths for the on-bank water movement were detected on Georges Bank: one is over the northwestern flank of the bank where the bottom topography changes sharply in both along- and cross-bank directions, and the other is near the bottom around the bank where the tidal mixing front is located. Over the northern flank, the cross-bank component of the Lagrangian residual current is generally opposite in direction to that of the Eulerian residual current, resulting in an on-bank, cross-frontal water transport near the bottom. Over the southern flank, the near-bottom water tends to converge toward the tidal mixing and shelf-break fronts, so that the near-bottom flow over the shelf between these two fronts is divergent. The response to wind-forcing varied with ambient stratification and water depth. In winter, strong winds can drive a significant off-bank water transport, tending to “wash out” the bank. In summer, winds are generally too weak to alter the general pattern of tidal-driven particle motion within the mixed region on the crest of the bank and the surrounding tidal mixing front. Some wind-driven off-bank transport occurs near the surface in the stratified region on the outer southern flank, but this has little influence on water movement near the bottom. Passive tracer experiments reveal that the net cross-frontal water flux near the bottom is caused primarily by advection and horizontal diffusion. Tidal-induced vertical diffusion tends to make the tracer mix rapidly upward, thus reducing the percent of the cross-frontal flux due to advection. Our new model results are consistent with previous model studies of Georges Bank, and agree in general with drifter and dye patches observed in the U.S. GLOBEC NW Atlantic/Georges Bank program.
A music intervention to reduce anxiety before vascular angiography procedures

Patients scheduled for vascular angiography are often anxious and frightened. High levels of anxiety may result in more difficult and painful procedures. Past research has reported mixed results for anxiety reduction techniques in other procedures settings, such as education, cognitive-behavioral skills, coping and relaxation skills, combinations of techniques, and music. Music as an intervention for pre-procedural anxiety prior to vascular angiography has not been studied. A randomized controlled trial of 170 patients was undertaken to determine whether 15 minutes of self-selected music reduced pre-procedure anxiety. The State Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to measure patients' anxiety. One-hundred sixty-six men and 4 women comprised the sample with an average age of 66.8 years (SD 9.95, range 37 to 85 years). Patients who listened to music (n=89) reduced their anxiety score from 38.57 (SD 10.46) to 35.2 (SD 9.7), while those who did not listen to music (n=81) reduced their anxiety score from 36.23 (SD 10.54) to 35.1 (SD 10.59); the difference between the groups was statistically significant (t=1.95, df 161, p=0.05). Pulse achieved a statistically significant reduction in the music group (t=2.45, df 167, p=0.02). Music is a noninvasive nursing intervention that patients enjoy and reduces their anxiety and their pulse rate. Further research should address using music to reduce anxiety in other interventional vascular angiography settings with equal numbers of men and women and comparing self-selected versus investigator-selected music.
Demonstration of Capability of Water Flux Measurement in a Scramjet Combustor using Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Tomography and Stereoscopic PIV

Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Tomography (TDLAT) is a non-intrusive measurement technique for determining two-dimensional spatially resolved distributions of temperature and species concentration in high enthalpy flows. TDLAT combines infrared laser absorption spectroscopy with tomographic image reconstruction. The TDLAT technique has been implemented at the University of Virginia's Aerospace Research Laboratory supersonic combustion tunnel. Spatially resolved temperature and water vapor concentration measurements at the exit of the supersonic combustion tunnel have been obtained using the TDLAT technique. The tomographic reconstructions at the exit plane are presented. Water vapor concentration measurements from TDLAT are combined with velocity measurements obtained by Stereoscopic PIV to provide direct measurement of water vapor flux at the exit of the supersonic combustion tunnel. Comparison of this value to the known water vapor injected provides a demonstration of the capability of the TDLAT/SPIV technique. Such a measurement of water flux with combustion will enable combustion efficiency to be evaluated. A measurement of a high temperature non-reacting case for a water vitiation level of 12% is presented.
Concentration and Diversity Revisited: Production Logics and the U.S. Mainstream Recording Market, 1940-1990*

What shapes the diversity of media markets? A literature on the U.S. recording industry offers competing accounts. The cyclical account stresses the negative effect of market concentration, where high concentration dampens diversity. The open system account stresses a mitigated effect, where the logic of decentralized production reduces concentration's negative effect. However, both accounts contain notable gaps. This article fills these gaps and consequently advances this literature. Most notably, it adjudicates these accounts by analyzing time series data on two carriers of diversity: performing acts and recording firms. When decentralized production is low, as in the 1940s, high concentration reduces the number of new performers and new firms. When decentralized production grows more pronounced, as in the 1980s, concentration's negative effect is reduced and eventually eliminated.
Drug-resistant tuberculosis after gastrectomy. Double jeopardy?

Although an increased incidence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection is found in patients after subtotal gastrectomy, to my knowledge, the potential for gastrectomy to alter the course and outcome of typical mycobacterial disease has not been noted. I report the case of a patient who developed tuberculosis after a Billroth II subtotal gastrectomy, malabsorbed his antibiotics, and subsequently manifested infection with a drug-resistant strain of M tuberculosis. Altered drug pharmacokinetics should be considered as an important metabolic consequence of subtotal gastrectomy. (Chest 1991; 99:245–47)
Does Hospital Proficiency Vary for Melanoma Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsies? An Evaluation of Hospital-Level Adjusted Node Positivity Rates and Outcomes

Does Hospital Proficiency Vary for Melanoma Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsies? An Evaluation of Hospital-Level Adjusted Node Positivity Rates and Outcomes Christine V Kinnier, MD, Jeanette W Chung, PhD, Jennifer L Paruch, MD, Jeffrey D Wayne, MD, Merrick I Ross, MD, David P Winchester, MD, FACS, Karl Y Bilimoria, MD, MS, FACS Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
Fully-depleted SOI CMOS for analog applications

Fully-depleted (FD) SOI MOSFETs offer near-ideal properties for analog applications. In particular their high transconductance to drain current ratio allows one to obtain a higher gain than from bulk devices, and the reduced body effect permits one to fabricate more efficient pass gates. The excellent behavior of SOI MOSFETs at high temperature or at gigahertz frequencies is outlined as well.
Fimbriation of Pseudomonas cepacia.

Fimbriae (pili) on the surface of bacteria have been suggested to facilitate adherence to mucosal epithelial surfaces. Three Pseudomonas cepacia cystic fibrosis isolates were screened for their ability to agglutinate erythrocytes (HA), a characteristic of some fimbrial types. One strain, designated PC103, was HA+, while another, PC109, was HA-. A fimbriated (f+) HA+ derivative of PC109 (PC2(13)) was selected by repeated erythrocyte adsorption. The two HA+ strains were shown by transmission electron microscopy to possess fimbriae which averaged 4.8 +/- 1.36 nm in width and 200 to greater than 2,100 nm in length (PCE2(13)) and 3.4 to 11.4 nm in diameter and 280 to 720 nm in length (PC103). Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of outer membrane proteins prepared from PC103, PC109, and PCE2(13) indicated that the putative fimbrial subunit had a mass of 16 kDa. Western blot (immunoblot) analysis of sheared cell supernatants indicated that the 16-kDa subunit from PC103 and PCE2(13) reacted with antibody to the P. aeruginosa PAK pilin subunit. Southern blot analysis of a SalI digest of PC103 DNA showed DNA fragments which hybridized to P. aeruginosa PAK probes containing either the pilin structural gene (pilA) or the pilin accessory genes (pilB, -C, and -D) but not the conserved N-terminal region of pilA. A 15-kb band was common to both hybridizations, indicating that this fragment contains the PC103 fimbrial gene cluster. These results indicated the presence of homology between P. aeruginosa PAK and PC103 fimbriae but also suggested that the P. cepacia fimbriae are not type IV-like. The importance of fimbriae in adherence to A549 cells (type II pneumocytes) was assessed with PC109 (f-) and PCE2(13) (f+). PCE2(13) had an approximately 20-fold-higher level of adherence to A549 cells than PC109. This suggested that fimbriation of P. cepacia is associated with increased adherence in vitro. Images
Homeownership for the Poor in Distressed Neighborhoods: Does This Make Sense?

Abstract Several recent studies have found that homeownership has positive effects on children's development. This article extends these studies by testing whether these effects depend on neighborhood conditions. This extension is important because many low‐income families that become homeowners under current policies promoting homeownership for the poor are likely to purchase homes in troubled or distressed neighborhoods. Homeownership in almost any neighborhood is found to benefit children, while neighborhood effects are weak. This suggests that the children of most low‐income renters would be better served by programs that help their families become homeowners in their current neighborhoods instead of helping them move to better neighborhoods while remaining renters. However, the positive effects of homeownership on children are weakened in distressed neighborhoods, especially those that are residentially unstable and poor. Thus, helping low‐income families purchase homes in good neighborhoods is likel...
A statistical fault coverage metric for realistic path delay faults

The path delay fault model is the most realistic model for delay faults. Testing all the paths in a circuit achieves 100% delay fault coverage according to traditional path delay fault coverage metrics. These metrics result in unrealistically low fault coverage if only a subset of paths is tested, and the real test quality is not reflected. For example, the traditional path delay fault coverage of any practical test for circuit c6288 is close to 0 because this circuit has an exponential number of paths. In this paper, a statistical and realistic path delay fault coverage metric is presented. Then the quality of several existing test sets (path selection methods) is evaluated in terms of local and global delay faults using this metric, in comparison with the transition fault and traditional path delay fault coverage metrics.
Topic‐Prominence in Interlanguage*

This study investigates the role of topic-comment structure in the acquisition of English as a second language by adults. Oral narratives, both native and interlanguage, from speakers of three highly topic-prominent languages (Chinese, Japanese, and Korean) and three relatively less topic-prominent languages (Arabic, Farsi, and Spanish) were analyzed. We found that 1) there were no differences in topic-prominence in the English interlanguage narratives of speakers in the two groups and 2) the interlanguage narratives as a whole were more topic-prominent than native English, and intermediate in topic-prominence between topic-prominent and non-topic-prominent native languages. These results support the hypothesis that second-language acquisition is, in general, characterized by an early topic-comment stage, independent of the learner's native language.
Using Hierarchical Classes to Analyze Organization of the Self-Concept

This study evaluated in several ways the concurrent and discriminant validity of measuring self-concept organization via Hierarchical Classes (HICLAS) analysis of interview-derived self-descriptions. College students (N = 85) listed and then described using their own words various self-aspects, and they completed standardized measures of depressive symptoms, self-esteem, and verbal ability. As expected, self-views were multifaceted and hierarchically organized. The proportion of negative self-descriptors provided was positively correlated with depressive symptoms and negatively correlated with self-esteem. Positive and negative self-descriptors were compartmentalized across self-aspects. These results supported the concurrent validity of the information yielded by HICLAS analysis. Supporting the discriminant validity of the method, indices of the elaboration of the self-concept were not correlated with depressive symptoms. No HICLAS variables were significantly confounded by individual differences in verb...
Media divergence in ideal linear phased arrays

Electromagnetic waves propagating within a homogenous media exhibit properties of non-divergence. Non-divergence, as applied to electromagnetic waves, occurs when the wave (carrier) speed and the wave modulation (code) speed appear equal. Thus for GPS applications both code and carrier measurements through non-divergent media are equal, otherwise the media exhibits "code-carrier divergence". This paper explores mathematically the sources of code-carrier divergence within ideal phased arrays. Specifically phased arrays with phase and amplitude steering are described mathematically and tests for divergence applied to special cases. It is shown that even for ideal phased arrays (i.e. perfect isometric elements with no mutual coupling) that code-carrier divergence is the rule and non-divergence is the exception. Only under specific conditions does phased arrays appear as a homogenous media.
Oxidative stress‐induced phosphorylation, degradation and aggregation of α‐synuclein are linked to upregulated CK2 and cathepsin D

Intracellular accumulation of alpha-synuclein (alpha-Syn) as filamentous aggregates is a pathological feature shared by Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies and multiple system atrophy, referred to as synucleinopathies. To understand the mechanisms underlying alpha-Syn aggregation, we established a tetracycline-off inducible transfectant (3D5) of neuronal lineage overexpressing human wild-type alpha-Syn. Alpha-Syn aggregation was initiated by exposure of 3D5 cells to FeCl2. The exposure led to formation of alpha-Syn inclusions and oligomers of 34, 54, 68 kDa and higher molecular weights. The oligomers displayed immunoreactivity with antibodies to the amino-, but not to the carboxyl (C)-, terminus of alpha-Syn, indicating that C-terminally truncated alpha-Syn is a major component of oligomers. FeCl2 exposure also promoted accumulation of S129 phosphorylated monomeric alpha-Syn (P alpha-Syn) and casein kinase 2 (CK2); however, G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 was reduced. Treatment of FeCl2-exposed cells with CK2 inhibitors (DRB or TBB) led to decreased formation of alpha-Syn inclusions, oligomers and P alpha-Syn. FeCl2 exposure also enhanced the activity/level of cathepsin D. Treatment of the FeCl2-exposed cells with pepstatin A or NH4Cl led to reduced formation of oligomers/inclusions as well as of approximately 10 and 12 kDa truncated alpha-Syn. Our results indicate that alpha-Syn phosphorylation caused by FeCl2 is due to CK2 upregulation, and that lysosomal proteases may have a role in producing truncated alpha-Syn for oligomer assembly.
Lumbar cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure measured in a flexed lateral decubitus position in children

Objective. Lumbar punctures in children are generally performed in a flexed position. Published normal ranges for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure require measurement in an extended position, and flexion is known to increase lumbar CSF pressure. This study sought to determine a normal range (mean ± 2 SD) for lumbar CSF opening pressure measured in a flexed lateral decubitus position in children. Methods. Opening pressure was measured in 33 children receiving diagnostic lumbar punctures or prophylactic intrathecal chemotherapy. Measurements were performed in a flexed lateral decubitus position. Patients with medical conditions affecting CSF pressure were excluded. Results. Opening pressure (mean ± SD) was 19.0 ± 4.4 cm H2O. Opening pressure was not significantly affected by patient age or sex. Intrathecal chemotherapy and sedation also did not affect CSF pressure. Conclusions. The normal range for lumbar CSF opening pressure measured in a flexed lateral decubitus position in children is 10 to 28 cm H2O.