cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stationary solutions for the 1+1 nonlinear Schrödinger equation modeling attractive Bose-Einstein condensates in small potentials

Stationary solutions for the $1+1$ cubic nonlinear Schr\"odinger equation (NLS) modeling attractive Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) in a small potential are obtained via a form of nonlinear perturbation. The focus here is on perturbations to the bright soliton solutions due to small potentials which either confine or repel the BECs: under arbitrary piecewise continuous potentials, we obtain the general representation for the perturbation theory of the bright solitons. Importantly, we do not need to assume that the nonlinearity is small, as we perform a sort of nonlinear perturbation by allowing the zeroth-order perturbation term to be governed by a nonlinear equation. This is useful, in that it allows us to consider perturbations of bright solitons of arbitrary size. In some cases, exact solutions can be recovered, and these agree with known results from the literature. Several special cases are considered which involve confining potentials of specific relevance to BECs. We make several observations on the influence of the small potentials on the behavior of the perturbed bright solitons. The results demonstrate the difference between perturbed bright solitons in the attractive NLS and those results found in the repulsive NLS for dark solitons, as discussed by Mallory and Van Gorder, [Phys. Rev. E 88, 013205 (2013)]. Extension of these results to more spatial dimensions is mentioned.
Poster Abstract: Distributed Reasoning for Diagnosing Cascading Outages in Cyber Physical Energy Systems

The power grid incorporates a number of protection elements such as distance relays that detect faults and prevent the propagation of failure effects from influencing the rest of system. However, the decision of these protection elements is only influenced by local information in the form of bus voltage/current (V-I) samples. Due to lack of system wide perspective, erroneous settings, and latent failure modes, protection devices often mis-operate and cause cascading effects that ultimately lead to blackouts. Blackouts around the world have been triggered or worsened by circuit breakers tripping, including the blackout of 2003 in North America, where the secondary/ remote protection relays incorrectly opened the breaker. Tools that aid the operators in finding the root cause of the problem on-line are required. However, high system complexity and the interdependencies between the cyber and physical elements of the system and the mis-operation of protection devices make the failure diagnosis a challenging problem.
The repair of a congenital H-type urethrorectal fistula using a scrotal flap urethroplasty.

Abstract A rare case of a congenital urethrorectal fistula associated with stenosis of the normally positioned anterior urethra is described. Previously reported embryologic explanations, a detailed approach for surgical management and an alternative treatment are discussed.
Cl- channels in basolateral renal medullary membranes, VI. Cl- conductance expression in Xenopus oocytes.

Cl- channels from basolateral membranes of the mammalian thick ascending limb of Henle differ significantly, in certain of their functional characteristics, from Cl- channels in apical membranes of secretory epithelia such as trachea or small intestine and from certain Cl- channels in the central nervous system. Yet there is no sequence information available about basolateral thick ascending limb Cl- channels. As an initial step in the isolation of a Cl- channel from the thick ascending limb of Henle9s loop, we attempted a functional expression of a Cl- conductance in oocytes from Xenopus laevis. Oocytes injected with mRNA isolated from the outer medulla of rabbit kidney had a membrane conductance, measured using a two-electrode voltage clamp, which was sixfold greater than in water-injected oocytes (9.05 +/- 1.56 vs. 1.43 +/- 0.15 microS, respectively). Ion substitution experiments showed the conductance in the RNA-injected oocytes to be Cl- selective. In addition, the Cl(-)-channel blocker diphenylamine-2-carboxylate (1 mM) almost completely inhibited (79 +/- 6%) the increased conductance seen in the RNA-injected oocytes. Fractionation of the mRNA by sucrose gradient centrifugation revealed that peak Cl- channel activity was expressed using an mRNA fraction of 1.8–3.2 kb in size. These results demonstrate that a membrane Cl- conductance can be expressed in X. laevis oocytes injected with size-selected fractions of mRNA from rabbit outer renal medulla.
GATA-1, NF-E2 and EKLF/SP1 Binding Elements Cooperate To Specify Patterns of Histone Hyper-Acetylation at β-Globin LCR HS Core Elements.

The active elements of the β-globin LCR are necessary for high-level expression of the linked globin genes. These active elements are contained within regions of unique, erythroid-specific chromatin structure characterized by the formation of positioned nucleosomal arrays, areas of approximately 150–200 bp which are highly accessible for protein-DNA interactions (DNase I HSs) and hyperacetylation of histones H3 and H4. At a DNA level, each of the LCR HS cores contain NF-E2, EKLF/Sp1 and tandem, inverted GATA binding elements. Our lab has shown that all of these transcription factor-binding sites are necessary for HS formation. We have previously proposed a model of HS formation in which Sp1 and/or EKLF first bind to the core regions and alter local chromatin structure allowing GATA-1 and NF-E2 to bind and stabilize the HS core structure. Additional factors could then bind to the core and flanking regions. An important aspect of HS core formation that our experiments have not previously addressed is the mechanism of histone acetylation. Based on our previous findings and the fact that GATA-1 and NF-E2 can both interact with histone acetyltransferases (HATs), we hypothesized that histone acetylation at the HS requires the binding of EKLF/Sp1 followed by GATA-1 and/or NF-E2 and therefor should be a late event in HS formation. To test this hypothesis, we have generated a series of 11 artificial HS core elements based on the structure of human HS4. These plasmid-based constructs contain different combinations of the six binding sites in their normal arrangement and spacing: (EKLF/Sp1)-(NF-E2)-(EKLF/SP1)-(GATA-1 x 2)-(EKLF/Sp1). These constructs were stably transfected into MEL cells and assayed for their ability to mediate histone H3 and H4 acetylation as determined by the ChIP assay. The endogenous murine β-globin LCR HS3 served as a positive internal control for histone acetylation. Previous results from our lab showed that all six factor-binding sites within the HS core are required for HS formation. However, when assayed for histone acetylation, the NF-E2 and the tandem inverted GATA sites are able to independently direct H3 and H4 acetylation to between 10 and 50% of that seen at the native HS site. Combination of the NF-E2 and GATA-1 sites results in 89% of normal H4 acetylation. Full HH4 acetylation (98% of the wild-type HS) is only seen with all six factor binding sites. These results indicate that NF-E2 and GATA-1 direct most of the acetylation of LCR HS core histones but that EKLF binding is also likely to contribute. They also indicate that extensive histone acetylation can occur without HS formation. Finally, in contrast to our model of HS formation, GATA-1 and NF-E2 appear able to direct the acetylation of HS core histones without the presence of binding sites for Sp1 or EKLF.
A wide-range bridge for dielectric measurements

Several years ago, an ultra-low-frequency bridge employing operational amplifiers and a two-phase source was described.1 Since that time, improved operational amplifiers and signal sources have become commercially available and permit the extension of this same technique to higher frequencies.
Utilization Management of Blood Derivatives

The blood bank is unique from a laboratory utilization management perspective, as it dispenses therapeutic products which not only incur costs but also pose direct risks to patients. Like traditional blood components such as red blood cells and platelets, blood “derivatives” including intravenous immunoglobulin, albumin, and clotting factor concentrates tend to be overutilized. In contrast to regular blood components, derivatives tend to be dispensed in low volumes, carry a high per-order cost, and have a complex structure of indications. Gatekeeping interventions, if implemented in collaboration with the leadership of the affected clinical departments, can be effective for managing utilization of blood derivatives. Examples of successful interventions targeting blood derivative use are discussed.
Current Concepts in the Management of Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is the ninth most common cancer in the world. Twenty to twenty-five percent of all newly diagnosed bladder cancers are muscle invasive in nature, and further, 20-25% of patients who are diagnosed with high-risk non-muscle invasive disease will eventually progress to muscle invasive disease in due course of time irrespective of adjuvant intravesical therapies. Availability of newer imaging modalities improves appropriate identification of patients with muscle invasive disease. Radical cystectomy remains the mainstay of treatment for management of muscle invasive disease. Availability of neoadjuvant chemotherapy has improved overall survival. Risk stratification systems are now in consideration to identify patients who benefit maximally from neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Urinary diversion is a major cause of morbidity in these patients, and several strategies are being employed to reduce morbidity. In this article, we review available literature on various aspects of management of muscle invasive disease.
Mechanisms and controversies in mutant Cul3-mediated familial hyperkalemic hypertension.

Autosomal dominant mutations in cullin-3 (Cul3) cause the most severe form of familial hyperkalemic hypertension (FHHt). Cul3 mutations cause skipping of exon 9, which results in an internal deleti...
Commuter College Student Adjustment: Peer Crowd Affiliation as a Driver of Loneliness, Belongingness, and Risk Behaviors:

Although previous research has clearly demonstrated the impact that peer crowd affiliation has on socioemotional and risk-related outcomes, very few studies have investigated this relation in sampl...
Glucose-induced increase in paracellular permeability and disruption of beta-receptor signaling in retinal endothelium.

Purpose To examine the effects of high glucose concentrations on retinal endothelial permeability in an in vitro model of the retinal microvasculature. Methods The permeability of the endothelial barrier to small solutes was measured in a chromatographic cell column consisting of bovine retinal endothelial cells cultured on porous fibronectin-coated microcarriers. In each cell column, permeability changes were evaluated by comparing the treatment permeability response over time with the initial baseline permeability. Short-term (2-hour) barrier effects of glucose were examined by measuring permeability at 15-minute intervals after an increase in perfusate concentration from baseline (5.5 mM) to high (25 mM) glucose. Long-term (to 57 days) effects were tested by addition of 25 mM glucose to microcarrier cultures. The effect of glucose on beta-receptor signaling was tested by measuring its effect on the permeability decrease produced by 1 microM isoproterenol. Results An increase from 5.5 mM to 25 mM glucose concentration did not change retinal endothelial cell monolayer permeability (n=6) during 2 hours. However, an increase in monolayer permeability was observed after 19 days (n=8) in the 25-mM glucose culture. Paralleling this time course, short-term exposure to 25 mM glucose did not prevent a decrease in permeability triggered by the beta-receptor agonist isoproterenol. However, the permeability effect of the agonist was blocked by long-term culture in 25 mM glucose. Permeability of retinal endothelial monolayers cultured in 5.5 mM glucose and treated with 1 microM isoproterenol decreased significantly to 0.71+/-0.06 of baseline (n=4; mean+/-SEM). However, permeability did not change in parallel cell columns made from microcarriers cultured in 25 mM glucose (0.97+/-0.2 of baseline permeability; n=4; mean+/-SEM). Conclusions High-glucose culture decreases the retinal endothelial barrier and blocks the response to beta-adrenergic receptors. This model may prove valuable in exploring other hypotheses of increased permeability associated with diabetic retinopathy or other retinal diseases that break down the retinal vascular barrier.
Infrared spectroscopy of cultured cells: II. Spectra of exponentially growing, serum-deprived and confluent cells

Abstract Infrared microspectroscopy (IR-MSP) is a spectroscopic technique that is able to monitor cell differentiation, maturation, and progression through the cell cycle. In order to establish this technique as a diagnostic tool in cellular biology and pharmacology, spectral patterns indicative of the stages of cell proliferation need to be collected. Thus, we have embarked on a systematic study of the effects of cell division and cell cycle progression on the infrared spectra of cells. In this paper, we modulated the level of cell proliferation and report the effects of this modulation on the observed infrared spectra of the cells. The modulation was achieved by serum deprivation of the growing cells, or by having the cell culture reach confluence. The progression of the cells through the cell cycle was monitored via flow cytometry, and correlated with changes in IR-MSP features in the spectral signatures due to nucleic acids (1250–1000 cm −1 ). In both these experiments, the majority of cells are in the G0/G1 stages, 3 with only a small percentage in the S and G2 phases. Nevertheless, spectral differences could be observed and interpreted in terms of the spectral changes of cellular DNA.
Reliability of predicting signal-to-noise ratio using NECR in PET imaging

55 Objectives Several investigators have shown that noise equivalent count rate (NECR) is linearly proportional to the square of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in FBP reconstruction in PET imaging. However to our knowledge, none have shown a similar relationship in fully 3D OSEM reconstruction. Our aim is to validate this relationship for OSEM reconstruction using scanners with BGO and LYSO detectors. Methods An anthropomorphic phantom was scanned on a DSTE PET/CT scanner(BGO)in 3D mode with initial activity concentration (AC) of 66 kBq/cc. PET data was acquired in dynamic mode (48 frames 3 min/frame and 12 min delay between frames). The same study was repeated with the same AC on a DRX scanner (LYSO). Care was taken to place the phantom at identical positions in both scans. All data were reconstructed using FBP and OSEM. NECR for each frame was determined from raw data, while SNR was calculated from the ratio of mean and standard deviation of 200 randomly selected non-neighboring voxels in a large VOI drawn in the uniform background. SNR square was plotted vs. NECR for each scanner and reconstruction method to validate their linear relationship. Results The plot of SNR squared vs. NECR is linear for FBP as expected. However, for OSEM this relationship is nonlinear at high AC (beyond peak NECR). On the other hand, the plot of the SNR squared versus the Trues rate rather than NECR shows a linear relationship across all AC. As expected the SNR of the DRX scanner was consistently higher by 36±23% than the DSTE when using FBP since the NECR of these two scanners favors the DRX system. However, for OSEM the two scanners had similar SNR (different by 6±9%) for all AC ≤ 20 kBq/cc despite them having different NECR Conclusions For clinical PET applications that require high injected AC (Cardiac imaging), the SNR can not be predicted by the scanner’s NECR when using OSEM but should be based on the measured Trues rate. Furthermore, our results suggest that scanners with better NECR do not result in better image quality when using OSEM
Mixing Models and Activity-Composition Relations

The functional forms of the expressions of activity coefficients in terms of composition have been developed from both macroscopic and atomistic reasonings. The macroscopic models are derived from considerations of the appropriate forms of ΔGXS as a function of composition, and operating on these empirical functions according to the relationships between \( {\tilde{\gamma }_i} \) and ΔGXS described in Chapter 1.II. Of these, the most generally useful formulation of ΔGXS(X) is due to Guggenheim (1937), who suggested the following polynomial form for a binary solution, which satisfies the required property that ΔGXS = 0 at the end-member compositions.
Kerberized credential translation: a solution to web access control

Kerberos, a widely used network authentication mechanism, is integrated into numerous applications: UNIX and Windows 2000 login, AFS, Telnet, and SSH to name a few. Yet, Web applications rely on SSL to estabilish authenticated and secure connections. SSL Provides strong authentication by using certificates and public key challenge response authentication. The expansion of the Internet requires each system to leverage the strength of the other, which suggets the importance of interoperability between them. This paper descirbes the design, implentation, and performance of a system that provides controlled access to Kerberized services through a browser. This system provides a singole sign-on that produces both Kerberos and public key credentials. The Web server uses a plugin that translates public key credentials to Kerberos credentials. The Web server's subsequent authenticated actions taken on a user's behalf are limited in time and scope. Performance measurements show how the overhead introduced by credential trnslation is amortized over the login session.
Thickening of the Infarcted Wall by Collagen Injection Improves Left Ventricular Function in Rats: A Novel Approach to Preserve Cardiac Function After Myocardial Infarction

Objectives We determined whether collagen implantation could thicken the infarcted left ventricular (LV) wall and improve LV function. Background We hypothesized that thickening the infarcted wall by using collagen might result in some benefits that are similar to what previously had been reported when the infarcted wall was thickened with cells. Methods Fischer rats with one-week-old myocardial infarcts were injected with collagen or saline (100 μl) into the scar (n = 12 each group). Six weeks later, LV angiograms, hemodynamics, and regional myocardial blood flow were assessed. The hearts were processed for measurements of postmortem LV volume and histology. Results Collagen injection significantly increased scar thickness (719 ± 26 μm) compared with the saline-treated group (440 ± 34 μm, p = 2.6 × 10−6). By LV angiography, stroke volume was significantly larger in the collagen-treated group (163 ± 8 μl) than in the saline-treated group (129 ± 6 μl, p = 0.005), and LV ejection fraction was also greater in the collagen-treated group (48.4 ± 1.8%) than in the saline-treated group (40.7 ± 1.0%, p = 0.002). Analysis of regional wall motion demonstrated paradoxical systolic bulging in 5 of 10 saline-treated rats that averaged 20.3 ± 2.6% of the LV diastolic circumference, but in none of the 11 collagen-treated rats (p = 0.012). The LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were 319 ± 12 μl and 190 ± 7 μl in the saline-treated group, respectively. There was a trend for larger LV end-diastolic volumes (343 ± 23 μl), but smaller end-systolic volumes (180 ± 16 μl) in the collagen-treated group. Conclusions This study shows that collagen injection thickens an infarct scar and improves LV stroke volume and ejection fraction, and prevents paradoxical systolic bulging after myocardial infarction.
Atmospheric circulation and inland flooding in twentieth century North Carolina, USA: Implications for climate change impacts?

Widespread inland floods for 20th century North Carolina, USA were defined from stream flow records as events where flow was more than one standard deviation above the mean annual peak for at least two contiguous drainage basins simultaneously. Thirty-one events were identified. One snowmelt flood was detected. For the others, synoptic causes were identified from precipitation and circulation data. Eight events were directly related to hurricanes. Each required a precursor storm, often another hurricane, to provide sufficient precipitation to overcome the dry soils and low stream flows of the autumnal hurricane season. The decadal frequencies of these floods were poorly correlated with the total number of hurricanes, with no hurricane floods between 1955 and 1999 despite frequent hurricanes. Further, most events involved slow-moving decaying systems, not intense ones. An increase in hurricane intensity, often suggested as a consequence of climate change, may lead to fewer floods. The other floods were produced by either extra-tropical storms or squall lines, and precursor systems were also needed. These floods were common in the first and last three decades of the century, virtually absent in the middle four. This corresponded to a small dip in the total number of cyclones, and to periods of rising temperature statewide. This suggests a future increase in North Carolina floods as global temperatures increase. However, the synoptic causes of the relationship are not clear, and detailed quantitative analyses of recent events are required.
Interrelationship of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Problems

There is now considerable evidence documenting high rates of substance use disorders and other forms of mental illness around the world. Such research illustrates the enormous toll that both sets of disorders take on individuals and society, and shows how both types of disorders contribute substantially to poor functioning and compromised well-being. We are now starting to understand much about substance use disorders and other forms of mental illness. We have good evidence regarding the nature and course of many types of mental and substance use disorders, and for many we have studied a range of psychosocial and pharmacological treatments with efficacy ranging from promising to clearly beneficial.
Autologous Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Lymphoid Malignancies

During the ten year period from 1987 to 1997, the Division of Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) at Stanford University has treated 1731 patients (pts) with malignancies using myeloablative therapies followed by allogeneic or autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). The largest group of autologous HCT recipients (n=726) were treated for lymphoid malignancies, i.e., non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL, n=419), Hodgkin’s disease (HD, n=183) or multiple myeloma (MM, n=124).
Adolescent E-Cigarette, Hookah, and Conventional Cigarette Use and Subsequent Marijuana Use

OBJECTIVES: Noncigarette tobacco products may confer a risk of marijuana use similar to combustible cigarettes. We examined whether adolescent electronic cigarette (e-cigarette), hookah, or combustible cigarette use is associated with initiating and currently using marijuana as well as using both tobacco and marijuana concurrently. METHODS: Adolescents from 10 public schools in Los Angeles, California, completed in-classroom surveys at baseline (fall 2013, ninth grade) and at a 24-month follow-up (fall 2015, 11th grade). Among adolescents who never used marijuana at baseline (N = 2668), associations of baseline e-cigarette, hookah, or combustible cigarette use with ever marijuana use (initiation), current marijuana use (past 30 days), and current dual use of marijuana and these tobacco products at the 24-month follow-up were examined. RESULTS: Baseline ever versus never e-cigarette use was associated with initiation (odds ratio [OR] 3.63; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.69–4.90) and current (OR 3.67; 95% CI 2.51–5.36) marijuana use 24 months later. Ever versus never hookah use was associated with initiation (OR 3.55; 95% CI 2.49–5.08) and current (OR 4.10; 95% CI 2.69–6.25) marijuana use 24 months later. Similar associations were observed for combustible cigarette smoking and initiation (OR 4.30; 95% CI 2.79–6.63) and current use of marijuana (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.05–3.68). Current use of any of these tobacco products at baseline was associated with current use of both tobacco and marijuana (OR 2.28; 95% CI 1.47–3.55) 24 months later. CONCLUSIONS: The association between tobacco use and subsequent marijuana use across adolescence extends to multiple tobacco products.
Effects of Mantra Meditation versus Music Listening on Knee Pain, Function, and Related Outcomes in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis: An Exploratory Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT).

Objective. Disease-modifying treatments for OA remain elusive, and commonly used medications can have serious side effects. Although meditation and music listening (ML) have been shown to improve outcomes in certain chronic pain populations, research in OA is sparse. In this pilot RCT, we explore the effects of two mind-body practices, mantra meditation (MM) and ML, on knee pain, function, and related outcomes in adults with knee OA. Methods. Twenty-two older ambulatory adults diagnosed with knee OA were randomized to a MM (N=11) or ML program (N=11) and asked to practice 15-20 minutes, twice daily for 8 weeks. Core outcomes included knee pain (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS] and Numeric Rating Scale), knee function (KOOS), and perceived OA severity (Patient Global Assessment). Additional outcomes included perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), mood (Profile of Mood States), sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and health-related quality of life (QOL, SF-36). Participants were assessed at baseline and following completion of the program. Results. Twenty participants (91%) completed the study (9 MM, 11 ML). Compliance was excellent; participants completed an average of 12.1±0.83 sessions/week. Relative to baseline, participants in both groups demonstrated improvement post-intervention in all core outcomes, including knee pain, function, and perceived OA severity, as well as improvement in mood, perceived stress, and QOL (Physical Health) (p’s≤0.05). Relative to ML, the MM group showed greater improvements in overall mood and sleep (p’s≤0.04), QOL-Mental Health (p<0.07), kinesiophobia (p=0.09), and two domains of the KOOS (p’s<0.09). Conclusions. Findings of this exploratory RCT suggest that a simple MM and, possibly, ML program may be effective in reducing knee pain and dysfunction, decreasing stress, and improving mood, sleep, and QOL in adults with knee OA.
A Fully Integrated RF-Powered Energy-Replenishing Current-Controlled Stimulator

This paper presents a fully-integrated current-controlled stimulator that is powered directly from on-chip coil antenna and achieves adiabatic energy-replenishing operation without any bulky external components. Adiabatic supply voltages, which can reach a differential range of up to 7.2 V, are directly generated from an on-chip 190-MHz resonant LC tank via a self-cascading/folding rectifier network, bypassing the losses that would otherwise be introduced by the 0.8 V system supply-generating rectifier and regulator. The stimulator occupies 0.22 mm $^2$ in a 180 nm silicon-on-insulator process and produces differential currents up to 145 $\mu$ A. Using a charge replenishing scheme, the stimulator redirects the charges accumulated across the electrodes to the system power supplies for 63.1% of stimulation energy recycling. To benchmark the efficiency of stimulation, a figure of merit termed the stimulator efficiency factor (SEF) is introduced. The adiabatic power rails and energy replenishment scheme enabled our stimulator to achieve an SEF of 6.0.
Determining the effective resolution of advection schemes. Part I: Dispersion analysis

Abstract The effective resolution of a numerical scheme describes the smallest spatial scale (largest wavenumber) that is completely resolved by that scheme. Using dispersion relation analysis allows the effective resolution of a numerical scheme for the advection equation to be calculated. The advection equation is a fundamental building block of dynamical cores of atmospheric and ocean models, and this analysis provides an indication of the effective resolution of the numerical methods used by dynamical cores. Using a variety of finite-difference schemes, the effect on effective resolution of using explicit diffusion and hyper-diffusion terms is examined. The choice of order-of-accuracy, and the time-stepping of the numerical scheme is also investigated with regard to effective resolution. Finally, we apply this analysis to methods that are commonly used in dynamical cores of atmospheric general circulation models, namely semi-Lagrangian and finite-volume methods.
All About the Bass

In a previous chapter on vision, the description of light energy was placed upon a spectrum. At one end were the long wavelengths of infrared and red, and at the other end were the short wavelengths of violet and ultraviolet light. In the middle of this spectrum was human vision extending from 390 (red) to 700 (violet) nm. In a very similar fashion, sound can be placed along a scale, but with frequency instead of wavelength as the measurement. Sound waves are pressure waves and can be visualized as a slinky stretched out on a flat surface. If one were to just casually lay out a slinky on a desk or table, the rings on the slinky would likely be randomly spaced out along the toy. Some of the rings would be jammed closer together, and others would be pulled or spaced apart. The same type of distribution occurs with sound waves. When the rings of the slinky are closer together, this would represent what is called a compression in the sound wave. This is a higher pressure point on the sound wave. A rarefaction occurs where the slinky’s rings are spaced further apart and is associated with a lower pressure. In a different view of the slinky, the compression of rings can be considered the “crest” of a wave (despite the height of the slinky remaining constant), and the rarefaction is the “trough” of the wave. Just like the slinky, the sound wave is a series of crests and troughs traveling through space.
Gross and Subgross Anatomy of Lungs, Pleura, Connective Tissue Septa, Distal Airways, and Structural Units

Abstract In the lung, there is much anatomical diversity between species, which may affect how the animal responds to disease. To correlate animal studies to human disease, we need to understand what these differences are. These differences include the branching geometry of the airways, variations in breathing rate and depth, and the subgross architecture of the lungs. The purpose of this chapter is to examine the basic anatomical units of the lungs in a variety of mammalian species and discuss their functional significance.
Airway Mucins ldquo Aircraft Carriers rdquo in the Apical Surface Fluid

Airway mucins the major component of airway mucus or apical surface fluid that covers the entire surface of the airways have been shown to possess multi factorial functions that are necessary for first line defense the major function of airway mucus In this mini review I will provide some evidence both theoretical and experimental that the multi factorial functions of airway mucins are most likely due to various bioactive proteins that are tightly associated with mucins Thus the first line defense of airway mucus requires both the mucociliary clearance and the activity of various bioactive proteins tightly associated with mucins which depend on the quality and quantity of airway mucins
Testing an Individual Systems Model of Response Evaluation and Decision (RED) and Antisocial Behavior Across Adolescence

This study examined the bidirectional development of aggressive response evaluation and decision (RED) and antisocial behavior across five time-points in adolescence. Participants (n = 522) were asked to imagine themselves behaving aggressively while viewing videotaped ambiguous provocations, and answered a set of RED questions following each aggressive retaliation (administered at Grades 8 and 11 [13 and 16 years]). Self- and mother-reports of antisocial behavior were collected at Grades 7, 9/10, and 12 (12, 14/15, and 17 years). Using structural equation modeling, we found a partial mediating effect at each hypothesized mediational path, despite high stability of antisocial behavior across adolescence. Findings are consistent with an individual systems perspective by which adolescents' antisocial conduct influences how they evaluate aggressive interpersonal behaviors, which affects their future antisocial conduct.
Bimetallic uranyl/cobalt(II) isothiocyanates: structure, property and spectroscopic analysis of homo- and heterometallic phases

We report the synthesis and characterization of a family of UO22+/Co2+ isothiocyanate materials containing [UO2(NCS)5]3− and/or [Co(NCS)4]2− building units charged balanced by tetramethylammonium cations and assembled via S⋯S or S⋯Oyl non-covalent interactions (NCIs), namely (C4H12N)3[UO2(NCS)5], (C4H12N)2[Co(NCS)4], and (C4H12N)5[Co(NCS)4][UO2(NCS)5]. The homometallic uranyl phase preferentially assembles via S⋯S interactions, whereas in the heterometallic phase S⋯Oyl interactions are predominant. The variation in assembly mode is explored using electrostatic surfaces potentials, revealing that the pendant –NCS ligands of the [Co(NCS)4]2− anion is capable of outcompeting those of the [UO2(NCS)5]3− anion. Notably, the heterometallic phase displays atypical blue shifting of the uranyl symmetric stretch in the Raman spectra, which is in contrast to many other compounds featuring non-covalent interactions at uranyl oxygen atoms. A combined experimental and computational (density functional theory and natural bond orbital analyses) approach revealed that coupling of the uranyl symmetric stretch with isothiocyanate modes of equatorial –NCS ligands was responsible for the atypical blue shift in the heterometallic phase.
Experiences of Adverse Childhood Events and Racial Discrimination in Relation to Depressive Symptoms in College Students.

Problem The college years mark a critical period for experiencing multiple stressors and mental health problems. This study applied minority stress theory to examine adverse childhood events (ACEs) and experiences of racial discrimination, and their relationships to depressive symptoms among racially/ethnically diverse college students. Methods We analyzed cross-sectional data from 2,685 college students attending seven colleges/universities in the state of Georgia. Measures included sociodemographics, ACEs, experiences of racial discrimination, and depressive symptoms. Results Participants' average age was 20.51 (SD=1.94) years; 63.9% were female, 21.9% Black, and 7.8% Hispanic. Multivariable regression indicated that more ACEs predicted more experiences of racial discrimination, and both ACEs and discrimination experiences predicted greater depressive symptoms (p's<.001). Experiencing more ACEs was associated with being older, female, sexual minorities, White (vs. Asian), Hispanic, having less educated parents, and students at public colleges/universities or technical colleges (vs. private colleges/universities, p's<.05). More reports of racial discrimination were associated with being sexual and/or racial/ethnic minorities (p's<.05). Greater depressive symptoms were associated with being younger, female, sexual minorities, White (vs. Black), and students from public (vs. private) colleges/universities (p's<.01). Conclusions College campuses should provide resources to address ACEs, racial discrimination, and mental health to support students' academic and psychosocial success.
Adaptively stacking ensembles for influenza forecasting

Seasonal influenza infects between 10 and 50 million people in the United States every year. Accurate forecasts of influenza and influenza-like illness (ILI) have been named by the CDC as an important tool to fight the damaging effects of these epidemics. Multi-model ensembles make accurate forecasts of seasonal influenza, but current operational ensemble forecasts are static: they require an abundance of past ILI data and assign fixed weights to component models at the beginning of a season, but do not update weights as new data on component model performance is collected. We propose an adaptive ensemble that (i) does not initially need data to combine forecasts and (ii) finds optimal weights which are updated week-by-week throughout the influenza season. We take a regularized likelihood approach and investigate this regularizer's ability to impact adaptive ensemble performance. After finding an optimal regularization value, we compare our adaptive ensemble to an equal-weighted and static ensemble. Applied to forecasts of short-term ILI incidence at the regional and national level, our adaptive model outperforms an equal-weighted ensemble and has similar performance to the static ensemble using only a fraction of the data available to the static ensemble. Needing no data at the beginning of an epidemic, an adaptive ensemble can quickly train and forecast an outbreak, providing a practical tool to public health officials looking for a forecast to conform to unique features of a specific season.
Exposing Image Tampering with the Same Quantization Matrix

Image tampering, being readily facilitated and proliferated by today’s digital techniques, is increasingly causing problems regarding the authenticity of images. As the most popular multimedia data, JPEG images can be easily tampered without leaving any clues; therefore, JPEG-based forensics , including the detection of double compression, interpolation, rotation, etc., has become an active research topic in multimedia forensics. Nevertheless, the interesting issue of detecting image tampering and its related operations by using the same quantization matrix has not been fully investigated. Aiming to detect such forgery manipulations under the same quantization matrix, we propose a detection method by using shift-recompression -based reshuffle characteristic features. Learning classifiers are applied to evaluating the efficacy. Our experimental results indicate that the approach is indeed highly effective in detecting image tampering and relevant manipulations with the same quantization matrix.
Metabolomics Analysis of Phenylketonuria and Wild Type Mice Fed Casein, Amino Acid and Glycomacropeptide Diets

Background: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is caused by mutations in the phenylalanine (phe) hydroxylase gene and requires a low-phe diet plus amino acid (AA) or glycomacropeptide (GMP) formula to prevent c...
Ion transport by heart mitochondria: XXIII. The effects of lead on mitochondrial reactions

Abstract The interaction of lead with isolated beef heart mitochondria and submitochondrial particles has been investigated. The amount of lead bound by the membrane, and consequently the effects of lead on a number of mitochondrial parameters, depends on the anionic composition of the suspending medium. Up to about 140 nmoles of lead per milligram of protein can be bound passively in the absence of phosphate. The binding of increasing amounts of lead alters the passive permeability of the mitochondrial membrane to cations and to anions differentially. Lead has been shown to activate the energy-linked uptake of ions by the mitochondrion, and lead itself is accumulated by an energy-dependent reaction under a variety of conditions. The energy-dependent uptake of lead shares many of the features of the Ca2+ accumulation reaction. The effects of lead on mitochondrial respiration appear to result from an interplay between, (a) the intrinsic susceptibility of certain enzyme systems, such as succinic dehydrogenase, to inhibition by the heavy metal, (b) activation of energy-dependent ion movements by lead and the resulting increased respiration which supports these movements, (c) energy-dependent movements of lead itself, and (d) effects of lead on substrate uptake and retention.
INTERVERTEBRAL AND INTRAVERTEBRAL RATIOS IN DOBERMAN PINSCHER DOGS WITH CERVICAL SPONDYLOMYELOPATHY

No screening method is currently available to differentiate dogs with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. Intravertebral and intervertebral ratios are used in horses and can predict cervical vertebral malformation. Intervertebral ratios could be a useful screening method for canine cervical spondylomyelopathy. Our purpose was to compare cervical intervertebral and intravertebral ratios in normal vs. affected Doberman pinschers. Forty dogs were studied, 27 affected and 13 normal. Cervical radiographs were obtained in all dogs. The minimum intra- and intervertebral sagittal diameter ratios were established for each cervical vertebrae and disc space from C 2 to C 7 . Comparisons were made between groups and specific vertebral body and disc levels. The effect of gender, age, and method of measurement (analog or digital radiographs) was also studied. There was no difference in either the intervertebral or intravertebral ratio between normal vs. affected dogs. The ratios decreased progressively along the cervical spine, being smallest at C 6 ‐C 7 and C 7 , respectively. Age, gender, and method of measurement had a significant influence on both inter- and intravertebral ratios, with smaller ratios seen as dogs aged and in male dogs. Based on our results, inter- or intravertebral ratios have no value to distinguish between clinically normal Doberman pinschers and Doberman pinschers with cervical spondylomyelopathy. C � 2012 Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound.
Piezoelectric polymer transducers.

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (CH2-CF2)n is a tough, flexible polymer readily available in the form of thin film which can be made piezoelectric by the temporary application of a high electric field. The areas of the film which become piezoelectric can be controlled to be the areas where metal electrodes are evaporated onto the film. The same electrodes and associated leads are subsequently used to detect the electric charge generated by the application of pressure to the active area. Such films may have applications in the measurement of occlusal forces.Many of the problems that might be encountered in an occlusal gauge have been addressed separately in other applications. For example, polymer transducers less than 100 μm thick have been developed and tested for measuring the nip pressure on an intaglio printing press. Piezoelectric polymer gauges have been successfully encased in a protective layer of another polymer to prevent the sharp edges of sand particles from breaking through the piezoelectric film. ...
Outcomes with R-CEOP for R-CHOP-ineligible patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma are highly dependent on cell of origin defined by Hans criteria

Rituximab-based chemoimmunotherapy using R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) is the standard frontline treatment for patients with diffuse large B-cell ly...
Material science experiments at the Atlas facility

Summary form only given, as follows. Three experimental campaigns designed for fielding on the Atlas Pulsed Power Facility are discussed. The foci of these experiments are directed toward a better understanding of three material science issues; (1) strength at high strain and high strain rate, (2) friction at material interfaces moving at high relative velocities, and (3) material failure in convergent geometry. Atlas provides an environment for investigating these problems in parameter regimes and geometries that are inaccessible with standard techniques. For example, flow stress measurements of material strength using conventional Hopkinson bar experiments are limited to strain rates /spl sim/10/sup 4/ sec/sup -1/. Atlas will be capable of imploding metal shells to combined strains of 200% and strain rates >10/sup 6/ sec/sup -1/. Data obtained regimes is used to test different constitutive strength models used in several Los Alamos hydrocodes. Dynamic friction has been investigated for nearly 300 years, but a first-principles understanding of this phenomenon does not exist. In the second set of experiments, the relative motion produced,at and near the surface separating two materials, is studied using multi-frame radiography. The motion is produced from using a high-velocity liner to impact a segmented target having two materials with different shock speeds. The third campaign is devoted to spall investigations. Both the effects of varying the driving pressure profile and the effect of convergence on spall is investigated. Through proper design of an Atlas liner, shock profiles ranging from flat-top to Taylor-like pressure pulse can be produced in a suitable target, and the resultant effects of these different profiles on damage can be inferred by using VISAR to measure pull-back velocities. Atlas will also be used study the growth, or healing, of spalled material in a converged geometry.
Prognostic significance of abnormal P wave morphology and PR-segment displacement after ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Introduction Atrial infarction is uncommonly diagnosed and data on its significance are limited. Its incidence in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) reportedly ranges from 0.7–42%. Certain atrial ECG changes, such as abnormal P wave morphology suggestive of atrial involvement have been associated with 90-day mortality after STEMI. However, whether atrial ECG changes are associated with short (30-day) or long-term (1-year) mortality have not been studied. Methods We examined index ECG in 224 consecutive STEMI. Demographics, clinical variables, peak troponin I, ejection fraction, and angiographic data were collected. Atrial ECG patterns were examined and correlated with mortality. Results Length of stay was longer with abnormal P waves ( p =0.008) or PR displacement in any lead ( p =0.003). Left main coronary disease was more prevalent with abnormal P wave ( p =0.045). Abnormal P wave morphology in any lead was associated with higher 30-day (OR 3.09 (1.35–7.05)) and 1-year mortality (OR 5.33 (2.74–10.36)). PR displacement in any lead was also associated with increased 30-day (OR 2.33 (1.03–5.28)) and 1-year mortality (OR 6.56 (3.34–12.86)). Abnormal P wave, PR depression in II, III and AVF, and elevation in AVR or AVL were associated with increased 1-year mortality (OR 12.49 (5.2–30.0)) as was PR depression in the precordial leads (OR 21.65 (6.82–68.66)). After adjusting for age, ejection fraction, peak troponin I, and left main disease, PR displacement in any lead was associated with increased 1-year mortality (adjusted OR 6.22 (2.33–18.64)). Conclusion PR segment displacement in any lead, found in 31% of patients with STEMI, independently predicted 1-year mortality.
Effect of the jimpy mutation on expression of myelin proteins in heterozygous and hemizygous mouse brain

The levels of myelin basic protein, proteolipid protein, and 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphohydrolase (EC 3.1.4.37) in cerebral hemispheres of wild-type, heterozygous jp/+, and hemizygous jp/Y mice of different ages were determined by radioimmunoassay and immunoblotting. In jp/Y brain the level of myelin basic protein was 8% that of wild-type at all ages. All forms of the protein were reduced although the 21.5K Mr form was relatively spared at early ages compared to the 18.5K, 17K, and 14K Mr forms. The level of 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphohydrolase was 8% that of wild-type at all ages, and proteolipid protein was undetectable at any age. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the jimpy mutation blocks myelin morphogenesis subsequent to incorporation of 21.5K Mr myelin basic protein but prior to incorporation of proteolipid protein. In jp/+ brain the levels of the three proteins were reduced commensurately to 60-70% those of wild-type. The deficit was apparent as early as 10 days after birth and remained proportionately constant throughout development. These results suggest that in jp/+ mice, X-chromosome inactivation produces a mosaic population of functionally wild-type and functionally jimpy oligodendrocytes. The former elaborate normal amounts of myelin but do not completely compensate for the myelin deficit due to the latter.