cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Ion Solvation Environments in Solid-State Polymer Electrolytes through Free-Energy Sampling

Author(s): Sundararaman, S; Halat, DM; Choo, Y; Snyder, RL; Abel, BA; Coates, GW; Reimer, JA; Balsara, NP; Prendergast, D | Abstract: The success of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) in solid-state polymer electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries is well established. Recently, in order to understand this success and to explore possible alternatives, we studied polyacetal electrolytes to deepen the understanding of the effect of the local chemical structure on ion transport. Advanced molecular dynamics techniques using newly developed, tailored interaction potentials have helped elucidate the various coordination environments of ions in these systems. In particular, the competition between cation-anion pairing and coordination by the polymer has been explored using free-energy sampling (metadynamics). At equivalent reduced temperatures, with respect to the polymer-specific glass-transition temperature, two-dimensional free-energy plots reveal the existence of multiple coordination environments for the lithium (Li) ions in these systems and their relative stabilities. Furthermore, we observe that the Li-ion movement in PEO follows a serial, stepwise pathway when moving from one coordination state to another, whereas this happens in a more continuous and concerted fashion in a polyacetal such as poly(1,3-dioxalane) [P(EO-MO)]. The implication is that interconversion between coordination states of the Li ions may be easier in P(EO-MO). However, the overarching observation from our free-energy analysis is that Li-ion coordination is dominated by the polymer (in either case) and contact-ion pairs are rare. We rationalize the observed higher increase in glass-transition temperature (Tg) with salt loading in polyacetals as due to intermolecular Li-ion coordination involving multiple polymer chains, rather than just one chain for PEO-based electrolytes. This interchain coupling in the polyacetals, resulting in the higherTg, works against any gains due to variations in Li-ion coordination that might enhance transport processes over PEO. Further research is required to overcome the interdependence between local coordination and macroscopic properties to compete with PEO electrolytes at the same absolute working temperature.
National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center for Cell Manufacturing Technologies (CMaT)

The National Science Foundation-funded Engineering Research Center (ERC) for Cell Manufacturing Technologies (CMaT) and the philanthropically funded Marcus Center for Therapeutic cell Characterization and Manufacturing (MC3M) are two national centers focused on developing new engineering and computational tools to advance the scalable manufacture of cell-based therapies into a reproducible, lower-cost, consistent, high-quality industry product for broad clinical use. These centers have developed a robust infrastructure for academia, industry, and government organizations to work together towards deep cell characterization, multi-omics-driven predictive modeling of critical quality attributes and critical process parameters, standards and best practices development, innovative process analytical technologies, scale-up or scale-out technologies, and robust supply chain management. This chapter provides an overview of these supporting organizations in the current cell therapy manufacturing ecosystem.
Etude des états finals à deux bosons Z dans le canal leptons-neutrinos dans l'expérience CMS auprès du LHC au CERN

Une etude des etats finaux ZZ avec les premieres donnees acquises par le detecteur CMS est presentee dans cette these. Cette etude exploite les premieres donnees delivrees par le LHC et enregistrees par CMS en 2010 et 2011. La section efficace de production ZZ est mesuree et des limites sont posees sur deux constantes de couplages de jauge electrofaibles anomaux neutres. La presence de tels couplages serait une evidence de nouvelle physique au dela du Modele Standard et necessite d'etre etudiee en detail. De plus, le processus de creation de paire de boson Z dans le Modele Standard est un bruit de fond pour la recherche du boson de Higgs et doit etre connu avec precision. Une serie d'etudes prealables est effectuee sur le calorimetre electromagnetique de CMS : ces etudes portent sur le systeme de lecture selective et le systeme de controle laser. Une autre etude prealable porte sur le comportement et la mesure de l'energie transverse manquante dans des evenements contenant un boson electrofaible se desintegrant dans le canal electronique. Cette etude montre que l'empilement a un impact important sur la mesure de l'energie transverse manquante et que des corrections doivent etre deployees pour reduire ces effets. Les conclusions de ces analyses contribuent a la bonne comprehension des resultats obtenus sur les etats finaux a deux boson Z.
Estimating Conditional Probabilities of Terrorist Attacks: Modeling Adversaries with Uncertain Value Tradeoffs

Many analyses conducted to inform security decisions depend on estimates of the conditional probabilities of different attack alternatives. These probabilities are difficult to estimate since analysts have limited access to the adversary and limited knowledge of the adversary's utility function, so subject matter experts often provide the estimates through direct elicitation. In this article, we describe a method of using uncertainty in utility function value tradeoffs to model the adversary's decision process and solve for the conditional probabilities of different attacks in closed form. The conditional probabilities are suitable to be used as inputs to probabilistic risk assessments and other decision support techniques. The process we describe is an extension of value-focused thinking and is broadly applicable, including in general business decision making. We demonstrate the use of this technique with simple examples. Language: en
Quantum Monte Carlo impurity solver for cluster dynamical mean-field theory and electronic structure calculations with adjustable cluster base

We generalized the recently introduced impurity solver [P. Werner et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 97, 076405 (2006)] based on the diagrammatic expansion around the atomic limit and quantum Monte Carlo summation of the diagrams. We present generalization to the cluster of impurities, which is at the heart of the cluster dynamical mean-field methods, and to realistic multiplet structure of a correlated atom, which will allow a high-precision study of actinide and lanthanide based compounds with the combination of the dynamical mean-field theory and band-structure methods. The approach is applied to both the two-dimensional Hubbard and $t\text{\ensuremath{-}}J$ models within cellular dynamical mean-field method. The efficient implementation of the algorithm, which we describe in detail, allows us to study coherence of the system at low temperature from the underdoped to overdoped regime. We show that the point of maximal superconducting transition temperature coincides with the point of maximum scattering rate, although this optimal doped point appears at different electron densities in the two models. The power of the method is further demonstrated in the example of the Kondo volume collapse transition in cerium. The valence histogram of the dynamical mean-field theory solution is presented, showing the importance of the multiplet splitting of the atomic states.
Neurovascular coupling in the mammalian brain

Normal brain function requires proper supply of oxygen and glucose in a timely and local manner. This is achieved through an orchestrated intercellular communication between neurones, astrocytes and microvessels that results in a rapid and restricted increase in cerebral blood flow, a process known as neurovascular coupling. Astrocytic end-feet make close contacts with neuronal synapses and blood vessels and, given their ability to release vasoactive signals following neuronal activation, have been recognized as key intermediaries in the neurovascular response. Both dilating and constricting signals appear to be released from astrocytes upon increases in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration, and both dilatation and constriction of brain vessels have been observed in previous studies. In this article, we discuss the various astrocyte-derived vasodilating and vasoconstricting signals, their interactions and effects on astrocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells, and suggest the importance of the intrinsic properties of the latter cell type on the overall neurovascular response. We present a working model in which the rise in astrocytic Ca(2+) following neuronal activation leads not only to the rapid activation of calcium-activated K(+) channels in astrocytic end-feet, but also to their modulation by metabolites of the arachidonic acid pathway, which in general have been proposed to act on vascular smooth muscle cells rather than on astrocytes. We propose that this latter mechanism may in turn modulate K(+) signalling from astrocytes to smooth muscle cells, influencing the overall effects of the vasodilating and vasoconstricting signals released during neuronal activation.
As If Republican Interpretation

I agree with Cass Sunstein that the time has come to develop the impli? cations of republicanism, or "neo-republicanism," for American public law. After all, if being a republican means having a commitment to some version of democratic self-governance, combined with an aspiration for collective decisionmaking that goes beyond the mere aggregation of indi? vidual preference into some vector of "public" decisions, most of us can easily view ourselves as republicans. The crucial question has to do with the concrete meaning of republicanism for American public law and pub? lic institutions. The task for republicans involves at least two sorts of theorizing. First, we must sort out our normative commitments and give them determinate shape. Otherwise republicanism as a normative theory will give us no purchase on the problems that we confront. Second, we must have a posi? tive theory of legal and institutional dynamics. We must be able to specify how legal and political institutions?from electoral voting to legislative processes to judicial decisionmaking?work or can be made to work. Oth? erwise we cannot choose rules or construct institutions that will pursue our normative ends. In this regard we should be alert to the experience of other movements which favored "rational democracy." Our "progressive" forebearers surely were as aware of the corruptions of legislative politics as are contempo? rary neo-republicans, and surely they were as determined to attack the evils of their day through institutional reform. And yet they were required to confess within a few short years of the foundation of their movement that they had seriously misunderstood the dynamics of public opinion and, therefore, the probable effects of the principal reform strategies?direct democracy in the form of the initiative, referendum, and recall?that they had inherited from the populists. They were thus required to shift to a completely new theory of how rational democracy could be constructed.1 That theory ultimately exalted a bureaucratic process that many contem? porary critics, including neo-republicans,2 see as a major stumbling block
Evaluation of the RAAPS Risk Screening Tool for Use in Detecting Adolescents With Depression

PROBLEM: Screening is vital to quality adolescent care, but using multiple surveys to screen depression and interrelated risk behaviors is difficult. The aim of this study was to evaluate RAAPS (Rapid Assessment for Adolescent Preventive Services) effectiveness as a screening tool for adolescent depression. METHODS: Cronbach's α, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were assessed. FINDINGS: Cronbach's α was 0.66 overall. The ROC curve is 0.86. Sensitivity and specificity were 0.86 and 0.71, respectively. The positive predictive value is 0.46 and the negative predictive value is 0.95. CONCLUSION: Results indicate RAAPS may be an effective screening tool for identifying adolescent depression. Language: en
Present Status of Intermediate Energy Cross Section Measurements with Fast Choppers

Publisher Summary There still is a place for choppers in the field of low energy neutron spectroscopy but certainly not for total cross section measurements of large samples at high energies. The chapter discusses capture measurements, scattering measurements, fission measurements, the measurement of eta, and γ-ray spectra measurements. The fast choppers and their associated reactors can be very stable pieces of equipment. They run routinely for days or weeks and provide a very steady source of pulsed neutrons. Not only does the chopper run well but also the auxiliary electronic equipment such as the multichannel analyzers are developed in a way that they operate about 90% of the time. For many of the partial cross section measurements and for high resolution total cross section measurements, the pulsed machines are very high intensity sources of narrow pulses of neutrons.
Biomarker-Guided Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure

As more patients are diagnosed with heart failure each year, heart failure management has become a growing public health issue. The development of new therapies and effective implementation of existing therapies for heart failure remain a challenge. Biomarkers, such as natriuretic peptides, offer consistent and cost-effective means of monitoring response to therapy. There is growing interest in using biomarkers to guide heart failure therapy due to their objectivity, reproducibility, and accessibility. There have been several trials to date, including the New Zealand Natriuretic Peptide-Guided Heart Failure Therapy study, the Trial of Intensified vs Standard Medical Therapy in Elderly Patients With Congestive Heart Failure Studies, the NT-proBNP–Assisted Treatment to Lessen Serial Cardiac Readmissions and Death trial, and the Plasma Brain Natriuretic Peptide–Guided Therapy to Improve Outcome in Heart Failure trial, that examined the effectiveness of biomarker-guided heart failure therapy with very promising results. When compared with intensive medical management, natriuretic peptide-guided heart failure therapy was shown to be noninferior in general and slightly superior in certain patient populations. Although larger trials are required to validate their results, these studies have provided evidence for the effectiveness of biomarker-guided heart failure therapy and paved the way for the integration of biomarkers into routine evaluation and management of patients with heart failure. Congest Heart Fail. 2010;16(4)(suppl 1):S62–S67. ©2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immune responses of mice against poly(glu lys ala) terpolymers and linkage with h-2.

The immune responses of inbred mice to the terpolymers poly(glu48-Iys32 ala20) GLA20, poly(glu36lys24ala40) GLA40, and poly(glu24lys16ala60) GLA60 were studied. Antibody levels were measured with the homologous, as well as with the crossreacting polymers (glu60ala40) GA and (glu60lys40) GL. It was determined that the terpolymers consist of many determinants of varying immunogenic strengths which account for the dose dependency requirements for responsiveness as follows: mice ofH-2 haplotypesa, b, d, k, ands respond to ten and 100μg GLA20 and GLA40 and to one, ten, and 100 μg GLA60; mice ofH-2 haplotypesp, q, andr do not respond well to any concentration of GLA20 but respond well to 100 μg GLA40 and tenμg GLA60. That the congenic mice C3H.NB (H-2 p) and B10.R111 (H-2 r), having responder backgrounds of C3H (H-2 k) and C57BL/10 (H-2 b) mice, respectively, do not respond would suggest strongly that there is linkage of responsiveness toH-2 in the above strains. In addition, the responsiveness of AQR mice to GLA60 would map theIr gene(s) to the right of theK region, and most likely in theI region. The antibody against GLA20 was directed against GL. Responses of miceof H-2 haplotypesp, q, andr against GLA40 and GLA60 were directed predominantly against unique GLA determinants that were neither GA nor GL. Mice of the other respondingH-2 haplotypes (a, b, d, k, ands) produced antibody against these unique GLA specificities, as well as against GL and/or GA determinants. The importance of measuring responses with the homologous polymer is therefore demonstrated. It was postulated that the recognition of GLA20 at the T-cell level is via GLA determinants having a limited amount of alanine, which are different from those helical GLA determinants recognized in the polymers GLA40 and GLA60.
Integrating ligand-based and protein-centric virtual screening of kinase inhibitors using ensembles of multiple protein kinase genes and conformations.

The rapidly growing wealth of structural and functional information about kinase genes and kinase inhibitors that is fueled by a significant therapeutic role of this protein family provides a significant impetus for development of targeted computational screening approaches. In this work, we explore an ensemble-based, protein-centric approach that allows for simultaneous virtual ligand screening against multiple kinase genes and multiple kinase receptor conformations. We systematically analyze and compare the results of ligand-based and protein-centric screening approaches using both single-receptor and ensemble-based docking protocols. A panel of protein kinase targets that includes ABL, EGFR, P38, CDK2, TK, and VEGFR2 kinases is used in this comparative analysis. By applying various performance metrics we have shown that ligand-centric shape matching can provide an effective enrichment of active compounds outperforming single-receptor docking screening. However, ligand-based approaches can be highly sen...
Replica plating of mammalian cells using low melt agarose.

We have developed a technique to replica plate mammalian cells grown on plastic dishes using low melt agarose. This method is simpler than previously described methods that use polyester membranes to grow and transfer cells. We have tested the effectiveness of this technique on normal and immortal cell lines and have found that we can transfer cells with an efficiency of 80–90%. We have used this technique to rapidly screen clones for insertion of a lentivirally encoded gene without a selectable marker.
Citalopram reduces endotoxin-induced fatigue

Abstract Increased levels of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) may play a role in depression. Mild depressive-like symptoms can be induced in humans through activation of the innate immune system with endotoxin. Whether preventive treatment with antidepressants can reduce endotoxin-induced symptoms has never been tested. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study, we administered intravenous low-dose endotoxin (0.8 ng/kg) or placebo to 11 healthy subjects who had received oral pre-treatment with citalopram (10 mg twice a day) or placebo for 5 days. The Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale, the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory, and a visual analog scale were used to measure depressive and anxiety symptoms and social anhedonia. Serum levels of TNF and IL-6 were measured with immunoassays. Compared to placebo, endotoxin administration increased serum levels of TNF and IL-6, and caused mild depressive-like symptoms, in particular lassitude and social anhedonia. While citalopram pre-treatment had no effect on the innate immune response to endotoxin, it reduced the endotoxin-induced MADRS total score by 50%, with a moderate effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.5). Most of the MADRS total score was due to the lassitude item, and citalopram pre-treatment specifically reduced endotoxin-induced lassitude with a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.9). These results suggest that subchronic pre-treatment with the serotonin-reuptake inhibitor citalopram blunts mood symptoms induced by acute immune system activation with endotoxin without inhibiting the peripheral immune response.
Stimulation by pteridines of the uptake of amethopterin by human lymphocytes

Abstract Triamterene (2,4,7-triamino-6-phenylpteridine) and certain other pteridines stimulate the uptake of amethopterin by human small lymphocytes, apparently by removing a barrier to amethopterin transport. This stimulation did not extend appreciably to other cell types or to other lymphocyte transport systems tested.
The Relation between Individual Differences and Accountants' Fraud Detection Ability

This report examines the potential application of the deception detection literature to auditing research. A pilot study focusing on auditor quality perceptions post Enron is used to explore the potential relevance of deception detection research theory and techniques. The pilot study findings highlight some potential areas for researchers to focus on in terms of construct, internal, external and statistical validity.
Determination of enzyme/substrate specificity constants using a multiple substrate ESI-MS assay

The traditional method used to investigate the reaction specificity of an enzyme with different substrates is to perform individual kinetic measurements. In this case, a series of varied concentrations are required to study each substrate and a non-regression analysis program is used several times to obtain all the specificity constants for comparison. To avoid the large amount of experimental materials, long analysis time, and redundant data processing procedures involved in the traditional method, we have developed a novel strategy for rapid determination of enzyme substrate specificity using one reaction system containing multiple competing substrates. In this multiplex assay method, the electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) technique was used for simultaneous quantification of multiple products and a steady-state kinetics model was established for efficient specificity constant calculation. The system investigated was the bacterial sulfotransferase NodH (NodST), which is a host specific nod gene product that catalyzes the sulfate group transfer from 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS) to natural Nod factors or synthetic chitooligosaccharides. Herein, the reaction specificity of NodST for four chitooligosaccharide acceptor substrates of different chain length (chitobiose, chitotriose, chitotetraose, and chitopentaose) was determined by both individual kinetic measurements and the new multiplex ESI-MS assay. The results obtained from the two methods were compared and found to be consistent. The multiplex ESI-MS assay is an accurate and valid method for substrate specificity evaluation, in which multiple substrates can be evaluated in one assay.
A family of threshold based robust adaptive algorithms for active impulsive noise control

Abstract The common active noise control (ANC) algorithm, namely the filtered-x least mean square (FxLMS) algorithm, becomes unstable for the non-Gaussian impulsive noise. This is because the typical FxLMS algorithm is based on the minimization of variance of the error signal (the second order moment in L 2 space), which does not exist for the non-Gaussian impulsive noise. In this study, a family of threshold based algorithms is proposed by minimizing several robust objective error functions as well as thresholding the reference signal to further refine the robustness of the ANC system for impulsive noise. The proposed algorithms are also expected to generalize the existing adaptive algorithms for impulsive noise control. These robust error functions are typically represented by (1) robust space vectors: L p and Log space; and (2) re-descending M-estimators: Huber, Fair and Hampel threshold functions. The threshold parameters in the reference signal and those M-estimators can be determined by using online and/or offline statistical estimation approaches. Numerical simulations are carried out to verify the performance of proposed algorithms by using synthesized impulsive noise following symmetric α-stable ( S α S ) distribution. Results show the improved robustness and convergence performance of the proposed algorithms for ANC of impulsive noises as compared to the conventional algorithms.
Carnot-like limits to steady-state productivity

The classical Carnot analysis provides means to calculate, relative to a specified heat supply and relative to specified temperature bounds, a limit on the work that can be obtained in any cyclic process consistent with those specifications. Moreover, the Carnot analysis indicates that the calculated limit is sharp, to the extent that it can be attained by a special process (a Carnot cycle) which cannot itself be realized but which can be approximated arbitrarily closely by actual processes. We indicate how, in the spirit of the Carnot analysis, theoretical limits to the productivity of steady-state reactor−separator systems can be calculated relative to specified commitments of resources and relative to specified constraints. We also indicate a sense in which those limits are sharp, to the extent that they might be attained by certain idealized reactor−separator systems which, like Carnot cycles, cannot be realized in practice but which might be approached by actual processes.
A stochastic model of committee voting with exogenous costs: Theory and experiments†

This paper develops a model which provides a rational, game-theoretic explanation for the experimentally observed phenomenon that committees often stop and adopt some outcome before all the dominating alternatives have been considered. The model is then tested experimentally on three-person majority rule committees with induced preferences making decisions under strict Roberts Rule of Order (1970). The model is an extension of the stochastic solution concept to a committee which faces real decision costs. The major result is that decision costs may significantly alter the distribution of outcomes predicted by the stochastic solution if an endogenous decision-theoretic stopping rule is allowed. In particular, if a fully dominating core exists, it will not be chosen with probability 1 in the presence of decision costs. In the experiments, the probability of choosing a core which dominates all other alternatives is reduced to almost one half. The experimental outcomes are consistent with the distribution predicted by the model and not consistent with a variety of other solution concepts without costs, which all predict the dominating core.
Management of hybrid (AC-DC) micro-grids

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the sharing of demanded power in a single-phase hybrid micro grid operating in autonomous island mode. We assume that we have DC power sources such as a photovoltaic array and wind turbine in the DC sub-grid that are tied to the AC sub-grid consisting of two uninterruptible power sources (UPS) through a bi-directional single phase inverter. Demand-droop control is used to manage power sharing between power sources in each sub-grid; however, managing the power flow through the entire grid is still a challenge. To overcome this we develop droop control strategies for each sub-grid, and droop control for the interfacing converter. Simulation results using MATLAB are used to demonstrate the performance of the power sharing methodology developed. Four different scenarios have been tested: (1) both sub-grids are heavy loaded, (2) both sub-grids have are lightly loaded, (3) a heavy DC load with a light AC load, and (4) a heavy AC load with a light DC load.
Intonation-contingent adaptation to speech

Contingent adaptation effects have previously been reported with vowel, amplitude, ear, and duration of formant transition. The present study presents evidence that adaptation to place of articulation can be made contingent on intonation contour, as defined by pitch changes occurring during the second half of the vowel portion of the stimuli. It is argued that the most satisfactory account of this effect is that adaptation has induced changes in response bias rather than fatigue of feature detectors.
Preparative and Analytical Separation of Insulin-Dextran Conjugates From Native Insulin: Application to Preparation and Characterization of Insulin-Dextran Conjugates

AbstractA high-performance size exclusion chromatographic (HPSEC) method was developed for analysis and separation of insulin-dextran conjugates and native insulin. The separation is achieved on a size-exclusion analytical column with a mobile phase of 0.05 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.0): acetonitrile (80:20, v/v) delivered at a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min. The conjugates are detected using a UV detector at a wavelength of 280 nm, based on the UV absorbance of the attached insulin. Under these conditions, the conjugates of insulin with dextrans with MWs of 500 kD, 70 kD, and 40 kD eluted at 4.3, 4.6, and 4.9 min, respectively. The conjugates were resolved from the native insulin which eluted at 6.3 min. Additionally, a method for preparative separation of the conjugates from the native insulin was developed. The method is based on a glass column packed with silica gel powder and elution of the conjugates with distilled water in less than 80 min.The application of these methods to preparation and characterization...
Human monocytes synthesize eicosanoids from T lymphocyte-derived arachidonic acid

Abstract T lymphocytes prelabeled with [ 14 C] arachidonic acid failed to synthesize any eicosanoids even following stimulation with phytohemagglutinin, but they did release free [ 14 C] arachidonic acid. Co-culture of unlabeled monocytes with the prelabeled T lymphocytes resulted in the sysnthesis of [ 14 C] thromboxane B 2 , a major monocyte-derived eicosanoid. These data show that monocytes can utilize T lymphocyte-derived arachidonic acid for the synthesis of eicosanoids.
RECENT RESEARCH IN MAGNETO-AERODYNAMICS

Abstract The resurgence of magneto-aerodynamics research has exposed several uncertainties for this rapidly evolving interdisciplinary endeavor, but has also shown promise to become a new technical frontier. This rejuvenated discipline, aided by modern computational technique and experimental innovation, reveals the potential to provide a new dimension for improving aerospace vehicle performance. Combining technology developments in electromagnetics, aerodynamics, and chemical kinetics may lead to a multidisciplinary breakthrough in aerospace science. Recent theoretical, computational, and experimental research in magneto-aerodynamics is summarized for sustained efforts and synergism. Preliminary computations of magneto-aerodynamics and related scientific issues are discussed. Specifically, several unique features of the shock structure in the presence of an electromagnetic field are demonstrated.
Increased Indomethacin Dosing for Persistent Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Trial

Objective We conducted a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial to determine whether higher doses of indomethacin would improve the rate of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure. Study design Infants ( Results Despite increasing serum indomethacin concentrations by 2.9-fold in the higher-dose group, we failed to detect a significant decrease in the rate of persistent PDA (low = 52%; higher=45%, P = .50). The higher-dose group had a significantly higher occurrence of serum creatinine >2 mg/100 mL (low = 6%, higher=19%, P P P Conclusion Increasing indomethacin concentrations above the levels achieved with a conventional dosing regimen had little effect on the rate of PDA closure but was associated with higher rates of moderate/severe ROP and renal compromise.
Investigation of substrate temperature effect on the surface morphology of excimer laser deposited YBa2Cu3O7/CeO2 films on sapphire

Excimer laser ablation is an excellent means of depositing high temperature superconducting (HTS) thin films because of high quality electrical properties of the resulting films and also because of the relative simplicity of the deposition system. The principal disadvantage of laser ablation is the contamination of the deposited film by particles, leading to a rough film surface. The influence of substrate temperature on surface morphology in YBa2Cu3O7 thin films deposited by excimer laser on r-plane sapphire with a CeO2 buffer layer has been investigated. The substrate temperature was measured using gold-nickel thermocouples on the substrate surface during deposition. The optimal deposition temperatures were found to be lower in comparison with films deposited on LaAlO3 because damage occurs to the buffer layer. Special attention was paid to the occurrence of droplets and outgrowths in the films. The ablation process produces droplets that range from 0.1 micrometers to a maximum of 1 micrometers in size. In the course of film growth these droplets undergo metamorphosis and form the basis of outgrowths.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Temperature-dependent oxygen and carbon isotope fractionations of biogenic siderite

Isotopic compositions of biogenic iron minerals may be used to infer environmental conditions under which bacterial iron reduction occurs. The major goal of this study is to examine temperature-dependent isotope fractionations associated with biogenic siderite (FeCO 3). Experiments were performed by using both mesophilic (,35°C) and thermophilic (.45°C) iron-reducing bacteria. In addition, control experiments were performed to examine fractionations under nonbiologic conditions. Temperature-dependent oxygen isotope fractionation occurred between biogenic siderite and water from which the mineral was precipitated. Samples in thermophilic cultures (45-75°C) gave the best linear correlation, which can be described as 10 3 lnasid-wt 5 2.56 3 10 6 T 22 (K) 1 1.69. This empirical equation agrees with that derived from inorganically precipitated siderite by Carothers et al. (1988) and may be used to approximate equilibrium fractionation. Carbon isotope fractionation between biogenic siderite and CO 2, based on limited data, also varied with temperature and was consistent with the inorganically precipitated siderite of Carothers et al. (1988). These results indicate that temperature is a controlling factor for isotopic variations in biogenic minerals examined in this study. The temperature-dependent fractionations under laboratory conditions, however, could be complicated by other factors including incubation time and concentration of bicarbonate. Early precipitated siderite at 120-mM initial bicarbonate tended to be enriched in 18 O. Siderite formed at ,30 mM of bicarbonate tended to be depleted in 18 O. Other variables, such as isotopic compositions of water, types of bacterial species, or bacterial growth rates, had little effect on the fractionation. In addition, siderite formed in abiotic controls had similar oxygen isotopic compositions as those of biogenic siderite at the same temperature, suggesting that microbial fractionations cannot be distinguished from abiotic fractionations under conditions examined here. Copyright © 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd
Acute cardiovascular response to exercise and its implications for exercise testing.

Exercise remains the preferred stress testing modality for patients because of its ability to provide more information than that obtained from the presence or absence of ischemia alone. A basic knowledge of the acute cardiac response to exercise can help us to obtain the greatest amount of information from this remarkably simple testing modality.
A High Legume Low Glycemic Index Diet Improves Serum Lipid Profiles in Men

Clinical studies have shown that fiber consumption facilitates weight loss and improves lipid profiles; however, the beneficial effects of high fermentable fiber low glycemic index (GI) diets under conditions of weight maintenance are unclear. In the Legume Inflammation Feeding Experiment, a randomized controlled cross-over feeding study, 64 middle-aged men who had undergone colonoscopies within the previous 2 years received both a healthy American (HA) diet (no legume consumption, fiber consumption = 9 g/1,000 kcal, and GI = 69) and a legume enriched (1.5 servings/1,000 kcal), high fiber (21 g/1,000 kcal), low GI (GI = 38) diet (LG) in random order. Diets were isocaloric and controlled for macronutrients including saturated fat; they were consumed each for 4 weeks with a 2-4 week break separating dietary treatments. Compared to the HA diet, the LG diet led to greater declines in both fasting serum total cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively). Insulin-resistant (IR) subjects had greater reductions in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; P < 0.01), and triglycerides (TAG)/HDL-C (P = 0.02) after the LG diet, compared to the HA diet. Insulin-sensitive (IS) subjects had greater reductions in TC (P < 0.001), LDL-C (P < 0.01), TC/HDL-C (P < 0.01), and LDL-C/HDL-C (P = 0.02) after the LG diet, compared to the HA diet. In conclusion, a high legume, high fiber, low GI diet improves serum lipid profiles in men, compared to a healthy American diet. However, IR individuals do not achieve the full benefits of the same diet on cardiovascular disease (CVD) lipid risk factors.
Coupling of a purified goldfish brain kainate receptor with a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein.

Abstract Goldfish brain has a high density of [3H]kainate-binding sites, a subpopulation of which appears to be coupled to a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein. We show here that a purified kainate receptor preparation reconstituted into phospholipid vesicles exhibits guanine nucleotide-sensitive high-affinity [3H]kainate binding. Pertussis toxin treatment abolishes the guanine nucleotide-sensitive portion of the [3H]kainate binding, and kainate promotes [3H]guanosine 5'-[beta,gamma-imido]triphosphate binding and [gamma-32P]GTP hydrolysis. Guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (GTP[gamma S]) decreases the apparent Stokes radius of the soluble purified receptor preparation, consistent with dissociation of the kainate receptor-G protein complexes. The affinity-purified preparations contain proteins of 45, 41, and 35 kDa. The 45- and 41-kDa proteins crossreact with antibodies against the kainate receptor cloned from frog brain. The 35-kDa protein is recognized by an antiserum (SW) directed against the beta subunit of G proteins. When kainate receptors are purified in the presence of GTP[gamma S], the 35-kDa protein is no longer present. Also, [3H]kainate affinity is decreased and is no longer guanine nucleotide sensitive. Upon reconstitution with purified G proteins, high-affinity guanine nucleotide-sensitive binding and kainate-stimulated GTPase activity can be restored. These observations indicate that a kainate receptor from goldfish brain functionally interacts with a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein.
Adsorption of automotive paint solvents on activated carbon. III: Equilibrium adsorption of binary mixtures

The use of activated carbon adsorption systems to remove volatile organic compounds released during automobile paint spray operations has received considerable attention in the past few years. In this paper, adsorption equilibria of eight automotive paint solvent pairs on activated carbon are presented. The data were obtained at total vapor concentrations of 365 ppm by volume, typical of those found in automobile assembly plant spraybooth exhaust air. Correlations of the data using two different modifications of the Polanyi adsorption potential theory in order to accommodate multicomponent equilibria are also presented and discussed. The correlations evaluated predict equilibrium compositions reasonably well for some binary mixtures. However, neither of the methods evaluated appeared to be satisfactory to correlate the equilibrium composition of all of the vapor pairs studied. A possible explanation for this behavior is that very small errors in the data available for the adsorption of pure components res...
Assessing the Role of Treatment Manuals: Have They Become Necessary but Nonsufficient Ingredients of Change?

We argue that the controversies and ambivalence surrounding treatment manuals are in part due to three somewhat inconsistent functions that these manuals serve, or may soon be serving: (1) to provide detailed guidelines to clinicians, (2) to operationalize developmental steps in psychotherapy research programs, and (3) to serve as a list of options that might soon be guiding, and potentially dictating, treatment reimbursements. We also argue that although the slow pace of scientific development is at odds with the immediate needs of clinicians, the inconsistency between the first and second functions of treatment manuals is not a problem per se—it simply reflects the intrinsic dilemma underlying the Boulder model. A key problem, however, is the possibility that our current state of empirical knowledge might be used in the near future as the main basis for prescribing psychotherapy (i.e., the inconsistency between the second and third functions of manuals). Treatment manuals are described as necessary but nonsufficient tools that may be best used as the “first line of attack” in narrowly defined treatment conditions. The creation of a new task force is suggested to delineate such treatment conditions, to generate possible guidelines for addressing clinical situations that have not yet been empirically investigated, and to recommend future research directions to improve psychotherapy effectiveness. Finally, clinicians and researchers are encouraged to use a treatment strategy that has been empirically supported to entice third-party payers to fund future psychotherapy research.
Learning to Make Sense of Division of Fractions: One K–8 Preservice Teacher's Perspective

Current reform documents in mathematics education recommend that teachers help students develop both conceptual and procedural understandings. However, teachers often do not possess the in-depth mathematical reasoning necessary to accomplish this goal. The purpose of this article is to provide one way in which preservice teachers can come to better understand the mathematics they will teach.
Hydrate Molecular Ballet

Hydrates are crystalline solids in which guest molecules are trapped within polyhedral water cages ( 1 ). They are important in hydrocarbon processing ( 2 ) and could play a major role in sustainable energy production ( 3 , 4 ). Methane hydrate occurs naturally and in vast quantities on ocean floors and in permafrost, with implications for climate change and energy recovery ( 2 ). However, the molecular mechanisms leading to hydrate formation are poorly understood; this knowledge gap affects not just the science and technology of these materials, but our comprehension of hydrophobicity ( 5 ) and of disorder-order phase transitions. On page 1095 of this issue, Walsh et al. report a computational tour de force that offers a fascinating glimpse of the molecular events leading to methane hydrate formation ( 6 ).
Nuclear-spin relaxation and spin-wave collective modes in a disordered two-dimensional electron gas.

The spin-polarization of nuclei near a two-dimensional electron gas (2D EG) may be relaxed by spin-flip excitations of the electron system. The spectrum of low-energy electronic spin-flip excitations depends on the disorder broadening of Landau levels and on the interaction enhancement of the Landau-level spin splitting. Disorder vertex corrections to the spin-flip response function capture the fact that the nuclear relaxation rate depends on local rather than thermodynamic Landau-level broadening, while interaction vertex corrections can strongly enhance the relaxation rate. We illustrate these effects by summing the disorder and interaction ladder diagrams for the spin-flip response function in the strong-magnetic-field limit. Our approach is also able to describe the effect of disorder on the spin-wave collective modes of a spin-polarized 2D EG.
Processing speed, speech rate, and memory.

In each of 2 studies, 24 nine-year-olds and 24 adults were administered measures of memory and measures of processing speed. In addition, in Study 2, articulation rate was measured. Age was correlated positively with memory but was correlated negatively with processing speed and articulation rate. The results of path analyses were consistent with the hypothesis that age and processing speed independently contribute to articulation rate, which determines memory
Identification of acetic acid as an acylating agent of anthocyanin pigments in grapes

Abstract Acetic acid has been identified by i.r., NMR, and mass spectrometry as a major acylating acid in acylated anthocyanin-3-monoglucosides in grapes.
Factors associated with substance use problem among Maryland Medicaid enrollees affected by serious mental illness

The objective of this study was to identify long-term factors associated with substance use problem among individuals affected by severe mental illness. Prospective data come from the 1994, 1998, and 2000 waves of the Maryland Mental Health Outcomes Survey conducted among a sub-cohort of adult Medicaid recipients affected by serious mental illness. We estimated factors associated with alcohol and drug problem, as well as a hierarchy of substance use problem severity constructed from the alcohol and drug problem outcomes. Drug problem was the strongest factor associated with alcohol problem, and vice versa. Conceptualizing alcohol and drug problem separately, and as a hierarchy of severity, revealed distinct profiles of significant factors. Further research is warranted to explore the utility of modeling substance use problem in terms of a hierarchy of severity.
Export Stagnation and Autarkic Development in Brazil, 1947–1962

I. Data on export stagnation, 286. — II. Causes of export stagnation. 287. — III. Effects of export stagnation, 292. — IV. Possibilities for change, 296. — V. Conclusions, 299.
Pharyngitis and Epiglottitis

Acute pharyngitis is one of the most common illnesses for which patients visit primary care physicians. Most cases are of viral origin, and with few exceptions these illnesses are both benign and self-limited. The most important bacterial cause is the beta-hemolytic group A streptococcus. There are other uncommon or rare types of pharyngitis. For some of these treatment is required or available, and some may be life threatening. Among those discussed in this article are diphtheria, gonorrhea, HIV infection, peritonsillar abscess, and epiglottitis.
A planar finite element model of bolus containment in the oral cavity

As individuals age, one of the objective changes that occurs in the oropharyngeal swallow is the development of a delay between bolus entry into the pharynx and the initiation of airway protection mechanisms. For longer delays, this phenomenon is sometimes referred to as ''premature spillage,'' and it has been suggested that such spillage, which is a risk factor for dysphagia, may be associated with pre-swallow lingual gestures, or ''tongue pumping.'' The goal of the current study was to develop a simplified two-dimensional computational model of the oropharynx to simulate the containment of a Newtonian fluid bolus within the oral cavity in response to a given pattern of lingual gestures for different viscosities. An arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian simulation was performed using the commercial finite element software package, LS-Dyna. It was found that for a given lingual motion, higher viscosity Newtonian boluses, consistent with those offered therapeutically, were able to be contained within the simulated oral cavity while a lower viscosity bolus would be ''spilled,'' suggesting a potential mechanisim by which thickened liquids may reduce aspiration. Although the current data must be validated with more realistic, three-dimensional geometric information and for a wider range of bolus rheologies, they represent an exciting first step towards realistic modeling of oropharyngeal bolus flow.
Positive Affect and Processes of Recovery among Treatment-Seeking Methamphetamine Users

Background Revised Stress and Coping Theory proposes that positive affect serves adaptive functions, independent of negative affect. However, scant research has examined whether, how, and under what circumstances positive affect is associated with decreased substance use.