cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using Low-Fidelity Simulation to Maintain Competency in Central Line Care

Abstract Purpose Many healthcare facilities require staff nurses to complete annual competency assessments on central line care. However, the question arises, could simulation provide a better assessment of competency and possibly help nurses retain competence longer? Review of Relevant Literature A thorough review of the literature revealed that limited investigation has been done regarding the perception or effectiveness of simulation as a tool for competency evaluation. Multiple authors have identified simulation as an advantageous method for training health care providers in central line care. Several studies have linked simulation based training with decreased central line associated bacteremia rates. There is also evidence in the literature that simulation has great potential as a competency validation technique. Discussion A sample of staff nurses participated in one of four central line care scenarios in a simulation environment. The participants were asked to complete a demographics survey as well as a self-assessment on central line competency prior to the simulation experience. Debriefing followed the simulation, offering the participant feedback on performance and verification of correct and incorrect actions. The self-assessment was then repeated to measure participant perception post-simulation. Implications for Clinical Practice No significant difference of performance in the simulation was inferred from baccalaureate-prepared nurses versus diploma or associate-prepared nurses. Almost all participants rated their competence in caring for a central line as either “competent” or “highly competent.” However upon demonstration of central line skills in the simulation, all but two participants omitted a critical step. Omitting these steps places the patient at risk for infection or other complications.
Magnetic susceptibility of the two-dimensional Hubbard model.

Using quantum Monte Carlo techniques we study the magnetic susceptibility of the Hubbard model on a two-dimensional square lattice for values of the coupling U/t ranging from 4 to 20, and as a function of temperature and doping. For U/t=4 the magnetic susceptibility has a maximum at half filling and decreases with doping, in qualitative agreement with recent random-phase-approximation calculations. However, for U/t=10 the susceptibility increases with hole doping near half filling resembling the experimental results obtained for ${\mathrm{La}}_{2\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$. At low electronic density the temperature dependence of the susceptibility is compatible with that of a Fermi liquid.
Far infrared electronic and vibronic transitions of Nd3+ in the tysonite lanthanide fluorides☆

Abstract An electronic transition near 45 cm −1 was observed directly in oriented single crystals of NdF 3 and Nd 3+ doped LaF 3 , CeF 3 and PrF 3 . An unpolarized Zeeman study confirmed the electronic nature of the transition.
Youth Perspectives on Violence and Injustice

This introduction presents the theoretical, methodological, and practical rationale for “Youth perspectives on violence and injustice,” a special issue of the Journal of Social Issues. Our approach to youth violence research raises questions about what counts as normative youth behavior and broadens the nature of inquiry so that understandings and goals of young people, especially those from discriminated groups, contribute to re-defining the problem and its analysis. We also underscore how the articles in this issue illuminate youth perspectives via novel theoretical and methodological tools. After presenting the organizing themes of social justice and development: youth perspectives through history, culture, and community, youth confronting public institutions, and youth transformations through relationships, we preview themes in the integrative summary. Questioning “Violence” and “Youth”
Lunar Cycle and Poison Center Calls

An analysis of calls to the Maryland Poison Center was performed to assess whether a relationship exists between the moon periods and poison exposure calls. A given period was defined as the day of...
The interstellar tunnel of neutral-free gas toward Beta Canis Majoris

Using high-resolution sodium absorption observations of early-type stars to determine the distribution of neutral interstellar gas in the direction of the star Beta CMa, the contours of a large feature in the local interstellar medium, some 50 pc in diameter and 300 pc long, that appears to be virtually free of neutral gas have been mapped. This rarefied 'interstellar tunnel' is an extension of a region of very low gas density surrounding the sun called the Local Bubble, which may well have been formed by the interaction of expanding interstellar cavities produced by multiple supernova events. This large region of unusually low gas density will be a prime area for study in the soft X-ray and EUV spectral regions.
Follow-up on ABIM maintenance of certification.

![Figure][1] In August 2014, we reviewed the response of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) to the American Board of Internal Medicine’s (ABIM’s) new Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requirements [(1)][2]. This latest report is intended to update the ACC membership on progress
Directional gas-flow measurement with pyroelectric anemometers (PA)

Abstract The directional flow characteristics of pyroelectric anemometers, fabricated using z-cut LiTaO3 plates, are studied. The heater resistor and the two sensor electrodes were evaporated NiCr films. The ratios of the lengths of the charge-sensing electrodes to the electrode—heater separation distance, β, were 32 and 54. The flow-angle dependence of the differential pyroelectric response was measured. The results yield a cos 1 2 α flow-angle dependence, where α is the fluid flow angle normal to the electrode length. Because of the large value of β, this angular dependence is in close agreement with the empirical formula often used for the hot wire anemometer.
Hallucinogenic botanicals of America : A growing need for focused drug education and research

Botanical sources for medicines in America have been known since long before the arrival of Columbus. Nevertheless, both scientists and the general public are often unaware that some of these botanical drugs are also potent intoxicants. We provide a quick overview of hallucinogenic and dissociative drugs harvested from nature or that are openly and legally cultivated in the United States. Examples of harmful outcomes reported in the media are contrasted with existing responsible ingestion by others, some of whom have the protected right to do so for traditional or sacramental religious purposes. Despite an ongoing and expensive effort to warn people of the potential harms of recreational drug use, little is known about the extent of use of these psychoactive botanicals, and the recent explosion of information available via the Internet could herald a storm of morbidity to come. Mounting more targeted research and educational efforts today may reduce later use and abuse, inform society about the special circumstances of religious use, and better prepare clinicians and other health care providers about the issues involved when people choose to indigenously source psychoactive drugs for human consumption.
Comparison of the actions of γ-butyrolactone and 1,4-butanediol in Swiss-Webster mice

The abuse of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and two of its precursors, gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) are recognized as a public health concern. Here, we report dose-response and time-course analyses for effects of GBL and 1,4-BD on locomotor activity and body temperature in Swiss-Webster mice. Locomotor activity was measured for 2 h following a single injection of one of four doses of each agent plus a saline vehicle control. At 50 mg/kg, GBL produced an initial depression of locomotor activity which was followed by stimulation of locomotor activity. In contrast, 1,4-BD at 50 mg/kg stimulated locomotor activity without producing any depression of activity. At higher doses, GBL produced primarily a dose-dependent decrease in locomotor activity that returned to baseline within 50 min. In contrast, 1,4-BD produced an initial depression which was followed by stimulation of activity. Body temperature was measured rectally across a 2.5-h time course following injection with either agent. Both drugs produced hypothermia with peak effects occurring at 20 and 30 min for both drugs for the lower and higher dose, respectively. At 150 mg/kg, GBL produced a greater hypothermic response; however, no differences in hypothermic response were observed at 100 mg/kg. These studies demonstrate that the precursor drugs to GHB have some differential actions from each other.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of a Brief, Problem-Focused Couple Therapy for Depression

The aim of this study was to evaluate a brief couple therapy for depression targeted for mildly discordant or nondiscordant couples struggling with the negative impact of depression. Subjects included women with major depression or dysthymia who had husbands without clinical depression. Thirty-five couples were randomly assigned to the 5-week intervention (n=18) or a waitlist control group (n=17), and followed up 1 and 3 months later. Results showed a significant effect of treatment in reducing women's depressive symptoms, with 67% of women improved and 40% to 47% recovered at follow-up, compared to only 17% improved and 8% recovered among women in the control group. Treatment was also effective in secondarily improving women's marital satisfaction, reducing husbands' levels of psychological distress and depression-specific burden, and improving both partners' understanding and acceptance of depression. The treatment was implemented in five 2-hour sessions, representing an efficient, cost-effective approach. Findings support the growing utility of brief, problem-focused couple interventions that simultaneously target depression, relational functioning, and psychological distress experienced by the loved ones of depressed persons.
Non-equivalent roles of Drosophila Frizzled and Dfrizzled2 in embryonic wingless signal transduction.

Abstract The highly conserved Wnt family of growth factors is essential for generating embryonic pattern in many animal species [1]. In the fruit fly Drosophila , most Wnt-mediated patterning is performed by a single family member, Wingless (Wg), acting through its receptors Frizzled (Fz) and DFrizzled2 (Dfz2). In the ventral embryonic epidermis, Wg signaling generates two different cell-fate decisions: the production of diverse denticle types and the specification of naked cuticle separating the denticle belts. Mutant alleles of wg disrupt these cellular decisions separately [2], suggesting that some aspect of ligand–receptor affinity influences cell-fate decisions, or that different receptor complexes mediate the distinct cellular responses. Here, we report that overexpression of Dfz2, but not Fz, rescues the mutant phenotype of wgPE2 , an allele that produces denticle diversity but no naked cuticle. Fz was able to substitute for Dfz2 only under conditions where the Wg ligand was present in excess. The wgPE2 mutant phenotype was also sensitive to the dosage of glycosaminoglycans, suggesting that the mutant ligand is excluded from the receptor complex when proteoglycans are present. We conclude that wild-type Wg signaling requires efficient interaction between ligand and the Dfz2–proteoglycan receptor complex to promote the naked cuticle cell fate.
Theoretical and experimental impact of the bed aspect ratio on the axial dispersion coefficient of columns packed with 2.5 μm particles

The impact of the ratio of the column diameter to the average particle size (or bed aspect ratio) on the column performance was investigated from theoretical and experimental viewpoints. The experiments were conducted for two series of 100mm long columns, 2.1, 3.0, and 4.6mm in diameter, packed with 2.5 μm fully porous particles of Bridge Ethylene Hybrid (BEH) for one series and Charged Surface Hybrid (CSH) for the other. The heights equivalent to a theoretical plate (HETP) of two low molecular weight compounds, uracil (non-retained, k=0) and naphthalene (retained, k=2.5), were determined from the true moments of the recorded peak profiles. The results showed a systematic decrease of the column performance for uracil at high flow velocities with decreasing column inner diameter, in agreement with the theoretical predictions of the variation of the trans-column eddy dispersion HETP term with decreasing bed aspect ratio. This result is consistent with the increasing volume fraction of the wall region of the column, in which the average linear velocity of the mobile phase over a distance of 5 particle diameters from the column wall is about 10% larger than in the bulk center of the column (infinite diameter column). For the retained compound, the discrepancies are levelled out due to the longer average residence time and larger particle diffusivities of retained compounds, which allow a more efficient relaxation of the radial concentration gradients. Further improvements of the performance of the larger I.D. columns (3.0 and 4.6mm I.D.) may be achieved by decreasing the harmful effect of this trans-column velocity bias by injecting and/or collecting the sample molecules in a wide central zone of the column. For 2.1mm I.D. columns, this approach would prove useful only when HPLC instruments providing a lower extra-column band broadening contribution will become available. Finally, the further minimization of the trans-column eddy dispersion HETP term and the design of new, better inlet/outlet column endfitting/frit assemblies requires newer and more accurate models of eddy dispersion in packed columns than those previously provided by Gunn and Giddings and the numerical calculation of band profiles using original functions to account for the distribution and collection of the sample molecules at the inlet and outlet of the column.
Detecting dynamical changes in time series using the permutation entropy

Timely detection of unusual and/or unexpected events in natural and man-made systems has deep scientific and practical relevance. We show that the recently proposed conceptually simple and easily calculated measure of permutation entropy can be effectively used to detect qualitative and quantitative dynamical changes. We illustrate our results on two model systems as well as on clinically characterized brain wave data from epileptic patients.
Ion–atom interaction potentials and transport properties

The computation of gaseous ion transport coefficients from knowledge of the ion-neutral interaction potential is now routine for atomic ion-atom systems. It is shown that good agreement with experiment is possible, however, only for potentials of extremely high accuracy. These results suggest that it is not worthwhile to perform a rigorous treatment for systems with polyatomic ions or neutrals. The approximation proposed by Monchick and Mason is shown to be sufficiently accurate to test the potentials presently available for such systems.
States and PACs: The legacy of established decision rules

The growth of political action committees (PACs) and their growing role in campaign finance have led to calls for placing limits on campaign contributions by PACs. State decisions regarding whether to limit PAC contributions appear to result from established policy orientations regarding other campaign finance issues: states with a history of previous efforts to regulate campaign finances are more likely to limit PAC contributions.
Study of isotope effects in the photoionization of HI and DI using phase lag spectroscopy

Phase lag spectroscopic measurements are performed for HI and DI in the 5d(π,δ) resonance region. Measurements of the phase lags for both molecules reveals a strong isotopic effect, especially pronounced in the ionization channel. The energy dependence of the phase lag provides clear examples of continuum and resonance coupling effects that were previously predicted theoretically but have not yet been observed. It is demonstrated that phase lag spectroscopy is a sensitive technique for studying properties of molecular continua, furnishing information that is not available from phase-insensitive observables.
Role of K+ efflux in apoptosis induced by AMPA and kainate in mouse cortical neurons

Activation of ionotropic glutamate receptors can induce neuronal apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. We showed previously that activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) subtype of glutamate receptors in a low Ca2+ and low Na+ condition induced apoptotic neuronal death, and that the K+ efflux via NMDA receptor channels was likely a key event in NMDA-induced apoptosis. Since non-NMDA receptors, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate (AMPA) and kainate receptors, are also permeable to K+, we tested the hypothesis that stimulating K+ efflux via non-NMDA receptor channels could induce apoptosis in cultured cortical neurons. Using a Ca2+-free and Na+-free external solution, application of kainate revealed outward membrane currents carried by K+ efflux. In a low Ca2+/low Na+ medium, a 5-h exposure to 50–500 μM AMPA in the presence of the NMDA receptor antagonist MK801 induced dose-dependent neuronal death 24 h after the onset of the insult, accompanied by intracellular K+ reduction and caspase-3 activation. The AMPA-induced cell death was attenuated by the caspase inhibitor Z-Val-Ala-Asp(OMe)-fluoromethyl ketone (Z-VAD-FMK) and by the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. Reducing K+ efflux by raising extracellular K+ concentration from 5 to 25 mM attenuated AMPA-triggered cell death, the Ca2+ channel antagonist nifedipine showed no effect on the AMPA toxicity. Kainate induced similar neuronal death sensitive to attenuation by Z-VAD-FMK or elevated extracellular K+. We suggest that the non-NMDA receptor-mediated K+ efflux may participate in apoptotic process and that blocking excessive K+ efflux mediated by NMDA and non-NMDA receptors may selectively prevent neuronal apoptosis under certain pathological conditions.
Effects of Cytosolic Ca Buffering on Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca Leak in Permeabilized Rabbit Ventricular Myocytes

In this study we tested the hypothesis that local Ca-induced Ca release (CICR) within ryanodine receptor (RyR2) release clusters plays an important role in defining spark-mediated sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca leak. We studied to what degree changes of cytosolic Ca buffer capacity affect single RyR activity in lipid bilayers, Ca spark properties, and SR Ca leak in permeabilized ventricular myocytes. No substantial changes in single RyR2 function were observed if BAPTA (a fast Ca buffer) was added (holding free Ca constant) to the EGTA-buffered cytosolic solution. However, the same cytosolic BAPTA addition almost completely eliminated Ca sparks in cells. The elimination of Ca sparks by BAPTA was not due to a decrease in SR Ca load. The addition of the fast cytosolic Ca buffer significantly decreased SR Ca leak, particularly at high [Ca]SR (>400 μM) where Ca sparks significantly contribute to SR Ca leak. In contrast, lowering cytosolic Ca buffer capacity (by decreasing EGTA from 0.36 to 0.1 mM; keeping free Ca constant) drastically increased Ca spark frequency and width, leading to generation of multifocal (or propagating) Ca sparks. This decrease in cytosolic Ca buffer capacity also significantly accelerated SR Ca leak as a result of augmentation of Ca spark-mediated component of SR Ca leak. In conclusion, by changing cytosolic Ca buffering (capacity or affinity) we were able to experimentally separate Ca spark- and non-spark- mediated component of the overall SR Ca leak in ventricular myocytes. These data also suggest that changes in the dynamics of local cytosolic Ca handling (buffering, extrusion, etc.) are physiologically important in determining the degree of spark and non-spark mediated SR Ca leak.
Effect of piperoxane on serum prolactin: possible role of epinephrine-mediated synapses in the inhibition of prolactin secretion.

Intravenous administration of 2.5 mg/kg piperoxane produced a rapid and significant increase in serum PRL concentrations in four non-human primates. This PRL increase was maximal 15 min after piperoxane infusion and significant, when compared with baseline levels, in the +15, +30, +45, +60, and +90-min samples. The iv administration of 5 mg/kg piperoxane also produced a rapid and significant increase, whereas saline, 0.5 mg/kg or 1.0 mg/kg, did not change serum PRL levels. The iv administration of 10 μg/kg clonidine, but not saline, produced a rapid and significant reduction in serum PRL levels. PRL levels were significantly reduced +15, +30, and +60 min after the clonidine infusion. Pretreatment with a bolus of 10 μg/kg clonidine at –15 min caused a significant attenuation of the piperoxaneinduced elevation in serum PRL in two monkeys. These data support the hypothesis that α-adrenergic receptors are involved in the inhibition of PRL secretion. These data are compatible with noradrenergic or adrenergic m...
Isotretinoin and psychopathology: a review

Isotretinoin, a synthetic oral retinoid that is used against severe nodulocystic acne, has been associated with various psychiatric side effects such as depression, suicidality and psychotic symptoms. A great number of reports on its effects have been published since its introduction into the market. However, a causal relationship has not been established and the link between isotretinoin use and psychiatric events remains controversial. The present paper reviews the available evidence regarding the association of isotretinoin and psychiatric side effects. All published material reporting psychiatric side effects following isotretinoin treatment, including case reports, case series, reports from adverse drug event reporting systems, prospective surveys and retrospective case-control studies, are presented. In addition, the neurobiology of the retinoids and possible biological mechanisms that may lead to psychopathology are described.
Multiaperture SAR target detection using hidden Markov models

Multi-aperture SAR (MASAR) is an extension of conventional SAR imagery that allows anisotropic returns from man-made objects to be exploited for detection. In this paper, we propose a MASAR ATD algorithm based on hidden Markov models (HMMs). We show that this algorithm economically locates anisotropic target returns. Using simulated L-band MASAR imagery containing M35 trucks, generated by the Xpatch-es software written by Loral, we derive HMM structures that efficiently model the sub-aperture radar return trajectories for target, grass, and tree pixels. We compare HMM detection results for the simulated MASAR imagery over a 105 degree angle of integration with two alternative methods: MASAR split-aperture (SA) change detection and conventional SAR two-parameter CFAR detection. To obtain our results we group detected pixels into target-sized clusters using a clustering algorithm. The results show that HMM detection far outperforms CFAR detection while requiring 1/10th as many FLOPS per pixel. Further, HMM ATD is nearly as accurate as SA change detection while requiring less than 1/500th as many FLOPS per pixel. Finally, for a more practical 45 degree angle of integration, we show that HMM detection and SA chnage detection have equivalent performance, while HMM detection requires less than 1/185th as many FLOPS per pixel.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Gender classification using 2-D ear images and sparse representation

Gender classification attracted the attention of researchers in computer vision for its use in many applications. Researches have addressed this issue based on facial images. In this paper, we present the first approach for gender classification using 2-D ear images based upon sparse representation. In sparse representation, the training data is used to develop a dictionary based on extracted features. In this work, Gabor filters are used for feature extraction. Classification is achieved by representing the test data using the dictionary based upon the extracted features. Experimental results conducted on the University of Notre Dame (UND) collection J dataset, containing large appearance, pose, and lighting variability, yielded gender classification rate of 89.49%.
Role of the mucous surface coat, dietary bulk and mucosal cell turnover in the intestinal disposition of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)

Abstract The dispositon of 3 H-benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) equivalents from the diet was examined at the lumen-mucosal cell interface of the proximal, medial and distal regions of the catfish intestine. 3 H-BaP (500 μd, 20 μg/kg) was administered via gavage in maintenance diet to two groups of catfish. One group was fed daily after dosing while the other was fasted until collection of intestinal tissues. Autoradiography of cryosectioned tissues and computer-enhanced image analysis allowed examination of BaP disposition. BaP was found to selectively localize at high concentrations in the mucous surface coat and corresponding villi of the colon. Supplemental feeding of uncontaminated diet lowered BaP concentrations in these regions. In a similar but separate experiment, 3 H-thymidine (666 μCi) was administered to two groups of catfish by i.p. injection to examine mucosal cell turnover in relation to BaP turnover. 3 H-Thymidine incorporation was greatest in the distal regions of both fasted and fed groups. Thymidine dynamics indicated that feeding was related to only marginal changes in cell turnover, which suggests that losses in intravillus BaP with feeding may not be wholly explained by intestinal cell turnover. Results from this study suggest that the mucous surface coat of the intestine is a major factor in the regional disposition of dietary carcinogens and removal of BaP from this mucin layer is related to the intake of dietary bulk.
Art as a diagnostic: assessing social and political transformation through public art in Cairo, Egypt

Since January 2011, Egypt has undergone several waves of political upheaval in order to craft a new form of governance. Central to this process has been the role of art. This article argues that artistic interventions that engage with the idea of public space and that take place in the public space of the city engender interactions that illuminate the complexities and difficulties currently facing Egyptian society. More so than serving as documentation of what has taken place or as acts of protest, public art can serve as a diagnostic of issues that simmer underneath the surface of national politics. Based on interviews, focus groups, and observations conducted between 2011 and 2013 with Cairo-based artists and arts advocates, the paper explores the way in which public art has signaled tensions regarding class, gender and increasing political polarization. By exploring the relationship between art, artists and urban space, this paper extends analyses on political transitions to take account of the effects...
Effects of carbon additions on iron reduction and phosphorus availability in a humid tropical forest soil

Abstract In the highly weathered soils of humid tropical forests, iron (Fe) plays a key role in ecosystem biogeochemical cycling through its interactions with carbon (C) and phosphorus (P). We used a laboratory study to explore the role of C quantity and quality in Fe reduction and associated P mobilization in tropical forest soils. Soils were incubated under an ambient atmosphere headspace (room air) with multiple levels of leaf litter leachate or acetate additions. Net Fe reduction occurred in all the treatments and at every time point. The more complex mixture of organic compounds in leaf litter leachate stimulated Fe reduction as much acetate, an easily fermentable C source. At the end of the experiment, Fe reduction was generally greater with higher C additions than in the low C additions and controls. The microbial biomass P had increased significantly suggesting rapid microbial uptake of P liberated from Fe. This occurred without increases in the available (NaHCO 3 ) P pool. The immobilization of P by microbes during the incubation provides a P conservation mechanism in these soils with fluctuating redox potential, and may ultimately stimulate more C cycling in these highly productive ecosystems. Iron cycling appears to be an important source of P for the biota and can contribute significantly to C oxidation in upland tropical forest soils.
The Social Background of Political Liberty in the Early Italian Renaissance

An attempt at a synopsis of Mr. Becker's and Mr. Hicks' findings requires an enlargement of focus. They have much in common in their approaches: both are sympathetic to reactions in Italian scholarship against a school which had conceived the history of the Italian city-states chiefly in terms of social clashes caused by antagonistic economic class interests. About 1900 that had been the perspective shared by most students. During the late 13th century (it was then argued), the half-chivalric magnati, owners of landed property, were replaced by the capitalistic merchants and industrialists of the arti maggiori; these, in turn, by the middle of the 14th century were followed by the artisans of the arti minori who, for a short revolutionary period in 1378, opened the door for the laborers of the great textile industries, the Ciompi. After class struggle had thus sapped the public spirit, Florence and other cities were ripe for the heavy, but pacifying hand of despotism.
Changes in adrenal corticosterone concentration in rats: method of bio-assay for ACTH.

Adrenal corticosterone concentration changes in response to various doses of ACTH and time pattern of changes in hypophysectomized rats
Submerged Jet Impingement Boiling of Saturated Water Under Sub-Atmospheric Conditions

An experimental study of mini-jet impingement boiling is presented for saturated conditions. Unique to this study is documentation of boiling characteristics of a submerged water jet under sub-atmospheric conditions. Data are reported at a fixed nozzle-to-surface distance that corresponds to a monotonic decrease in heat transfer coefficient for single-phase jet impingement. A mini nozzle is used in the present study with an internal diameter of 1.16 mm. Experiments are performed at three sub-atmospheric pool pressures of 0.2 bar, 0.3 bar and 0.5 bar. At each pressure, jet impingement boiling at four Reynolds numbers are characterized and compared with the pool boiling heat transfer. Enhancements in critical heat flux with increasing Re are observed for all pressures.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Preparation of volatile, monomeric copper(I) β-diketonate complexes

Abstract A series of (β-diketonate)Cu(PMe3), where β-diketonate = acetylacetonate (acac) (1), trifluoroacetylacetonate (2) and hexafluoroacetylacetonate (3), compounds have been prepared by the reaction of β-diketones with (η5-C5H5)CuPMe3. A single crystal X-ray diffraction study of (tfa)CuPMe3 reveals that it is monomeric in the solid state with a trigonal planar copper coordination environment. All three new compounds are volatile and soluble in hydrocarbon solvents.
Detection of lipopolysaccharides blotted on nylon membranes

A sensitive method for the detection of Gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) blotted on nylon membranes is described. LPSs are separated by SDS-PAGE and then electrophoretically transferred to nylon membranes. Immobilized LPS is oxidized with periodate and then reacted with a hydrazide conjugated to the steroid, digoxigenin. LPS is visualized by alkaline phosphatase labelled antibodies against the steroid and the enzyme substrate 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate/nitro blue tetrazolium. LPS banding patterns of both rough (R-) and smooth (S-) type LPSs from over 15 different bacterial species are similar to those of silver stained companion gels, but without nonspecific staining of proteins. The detection of S-LPS from Pseudomonas aeruginosa F-D type 1 and R-LPS from Escherichia coli K12 is sensitive to 10-20 ng per lane. The use of this detection system in combination with antibody or lectin studies on identical blots can provide an effective tool in locating the precise position of certain...
'Krokodil' and other home-produced drugs for injection: a perspective from Ukraine.

ahr, M., Freudenmann, R., Hiemke, C., Gunst, I., Connemann, B., & SchonfeldtLecuona, C. (2012). Desomorphine goes crocodile. Journal of Addictive Diseases, 31, 407–412. rund, J.-P. C., Latypov, A. B., & Harris, M. (2013). Breaking worse: The emergence of krokodil and excessive injuries among people who inject drugs in eastern Europe. International Journal of Drug Policy (in press). issouri State Highway Patrol. (2013). Meth Lab Stats. Retrieved from http:// www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/DevelopersPages/DDCC/methLab Disclaimer.html ulvey, E. (2007). First Arrest In The Nation For Violating The Combat Methamphetamine Act: Over 29 grams of ephedrine purchased within a month. Washington, DC: U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Retrieved from http://www.justice.gov/dea/divisions/nyc/2007/nyc033007p.html National Drug Intelligence Center. (2002). Crystal methamphetamine national drug intelligence center information bulletin. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice. Reinerman, C., & Levine, H. G. (2004). Crack in the rearview mirror: Deconstructing drug war mythology. Social Justice, 31, 182–199. Siebel, T. M., & Mange, S. A. (2009). The montana meth project: Unselling a dangerous drug. Stanford Law and Policy Review, 20, 405–416. Smith, P. H., & Toro, M. C. (1997). Drug trafficking in Mexico. In B. Bosworth, S. M. Collins, & N. Lustig (Eds.), Coming together?: Mexico-United States relations. Washington, DC: Brookings Institution Press. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. (1996). Methamphetamine: A Growing Domestic Threat. Retrieved 17.05.13.
Parkin-mediated K63-polyubiquitination targets ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 for degradation by the autophagy-lysosome system

Ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) is a key neuronal deubiquitinating enzyme which is mutated in Parkinson disease (PD) and in childhood-onset neurodegenerative disorder with optic atrophy. Furthermore, reduced UCH-L1 protein levels are associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases, whereas up-regulation of UCH-L1 protein expression is found in multiple types of cancer. However, very little is known about how UCH-L1 protein level is regulated in cells. Here, we report that UCH-L1 is a novel interactor and substrate of PD-linked E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase parkin. We find that parkin mediates K63-linked polyubiquitination of UCH-L1 in cooperation with the Ubc13/Uev1a E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme complex and promotes UCH-L1 degradation by the autophagy-lysosome pathway. Targeted disruption of parkin gene expression in mice causes a significant decrease in UCH-L1 ubiquitination with a concomitant increase in UCH-L1 protein level in brain, supporting an in vivo role of parkin in regulating UCH-L1 ubiquitination and degradation. Our findings reveal a direct link between parkin-mediated ubiquitin signaling and UCH-L1 regulation, and they have important implications for understanding the roles of these two proteins in health and disease.
The reaction of tetranitromethane with human chorionic gonadotropin

Abstract The reaction of tetranitromethane with human chorionic gonadotropin and its subunits has been investigated. The hormone consists of two subunits, α and β, containing four and three tyrosyl residues, respectively. Introduction of 1 nitrated tyrosine residue into the native hormone was accompanied by a 20% loss in immunological reactivity and a 50% loss in biological activity. This initial reaction occurred at α Tyr-88 and/or α Tyr-89. Exhaustive nitration of the hormone modified α tyrosines 65, 88, and 89 and resulted in 75% inactivation biologically and 50% immunologically. Either nitrated α subunit obtained by dissociation of the nitrated hormone recombined with the native β subunit to give a hormone whose activity was in reasonable agreement with that of the corresponding nitrated monomer. These results indicate involvement of α Tyr-88 and/or α Tyr 89 in binding of the hormone to its receptor. These residues are not required for binding to the β subunit, however. Tyr-65 of the α subunit is probably not involved in binding to either the β subunit or the hormone receptor. The β subunit obtained from the exhaustively nitrated hormone was unmodified and recombined with native α to give fully active hormone. About 25% of the protein was recovered as polymeric material following nitration; lesser amounts of crosslinked monomer were formed. Both were biologically inactive. The polymer products retained about 30% of the native immunological competence. Nitration of the isolated α subunit fully converted the remaining tyrosine (Tyr-37) to 3-nitrotyrosine in a two-step reaction. The fully nitrated α subunit did not recombine well with the native β subunit and the recombinant hormone has 10% or less of the native activity. Involvement of α Tyr-37 in binding to the β subunit is suggested by these data. However, exposure of this residue by a conformational change in the α subunit after dissociation of the native hormone, while it seems unlikely in view of the high disulfide content, is also consistent with the data. Reaction of the free β subunit with tetranitromethane resulted in complete nitration of Tyr-37, 85% nitration of Tyr-59, and 25% nitration of Tyr-82. The nitrated β subunit did not recombine well with native α but the isolated recombinant had two-thirds of the native activity. From these data we conclude that β Tyr-37 and/or β Tyr-59 are possibly involved in binding to the α subunit but do not have a role in the biological activity. Tyr-82 of β is apparently not involved in either subunit interactions or hormone-receptor binding.
Surges of FSH during the follicular and early luteal phases of the estrous cycle in heifers

Abstract Surges of FSH were characterized in each of 12 Holstein heifers using a computerized cycle detector program, and as mean changes averaged over all heifers. Blood samples were collected 6 times a day at 4-h intervals beginning at late diestrus. Concentrations of FSH were adjusted relative to the preovulatory LH peak (Hour 0) and profiled beginning 48 h before and ending 120 h after the LH peak. Peak concentrations of FSH and LH occurred synchronously in 11 of 12 (92%) heifers, and only a 4-h interval separated peak concentrations in the remaining heifer. The FSH surge that was synchronous with the LH surge was designated FSH Surge 1 and was used as a reference to designate other FSH surges. Surge −1 of FSH was detected in 58% of the heifers at mean Hour −21.2, and Surges 2, 3 and 4 were detected in 92%, 92% and 75% of the heifers, respectively, at mean Hours 25.1, 57.8 and 78.7. Mean peak levels and duration of FSH Surges-1, 2, 3 and 4 were significantly lower than for FSH Surge 1. Mean concentrations of FSH significantly increased and decreased before and after the LH peak, resulting from the synchrony between FSH Surge 1 and the LH surge in individual heifers. Additionally, there was a tendency (P
Total power optimization through simultaneously multiple-vDD multiple-vTH assignment and device sizing with stack forcing

In this paper, we present an algorithm for the minimization of total power consumption via multiple VDD assignment, multiple VTH assignment, device sizing and stack forcing, while maintaining performance requirements. These four power reduction techniques are properly encoded in genetic algorithm and evaluated simultaneously. The overhead imposed by the insertion of level converters is also taken into account. The effectiveness of each power reduction mechanism is verified, as are the combinations of different approaches. Experimental results are given for a number of 65 nm benchmark circuits that span typical circuit topologies, including inverter chains, SRAM decoders, multiplier and a 32bit carry adders. From the experimental results, we show that the combination of four low power techniques is the effective way to achieve low power budget.
Pentagon Strategy Recognizes Need for Increased Research in the Arctic

A new Arctic strategy issued by the Pentagon recognizes the changing state of the Arctic and the need for increased scientific research efforts to better understand the Arctic environment. In addition, the strategy identifies an end goal of securing and stabilizing the Arctic region so that U.S. interests are safeguarded and nations can work cooperatively on issues.
Why is Tc of the oxide superconductors so low

An analysis of the resistivity above ${\mathrm{T}}_{\mathrm{c}}$ in the oxide superconductors shows that the inelastic-scattering rate is several times kT. This inelastic scattering yields pair breaking which suppresses ${\mathrm{T}}_{\mathrm{c}}$ relative to the energy gap. The large energy scale in the problem suggests an electronic pairing mechanism, which we believe leads to d-wave pairing. The inelastic scattering has contributions from electron-phonon and from electron-electron scattering in a two-dimensional square lattice near half filling. In the latter case, the pair breaking can be reduced in a more three-dimensional structure.
A sensitive rosetting assay for detection of acetylcholine receptor antibodies using BC3H-1 cells: positive results in 'antibody-negative' myasthenia gravis.

Abstract Antibodies to acetylcholine receptor (AChR) were measured in a group of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG), some of whom had previously been classified as “antibody negative” using the standard anti-AChR radioimmunoassay (RIA). AChR antibodies were measured using the resotting assay, a new detection method which utilizes protein A-coated red blood cells and live BC 3 H-1 cells, a murine cell line which expresses muscle nicotinic AChR. The results of the rosetting assay were compared with those obtained in the anti-AChR RIA. 76% of all myasthenic sera tested showed rosetting at titers higher than any of the control sera (from patients with non-myasthenic neurologic disease and normal individuals). Of the myasthenic patients previously classified as ‘antibody negative’ in the RIA using human AChR, 71% demonstrated positive rosetting. There was no correlation between the anti-AChR antibody titer obtained in the rosetting assay and that obtained in the RIA using either human or denervated rat AChR. The results suggest that the rosetting assay may meausure a subpopulation of antibodies that differs from those detected in the RIA.
Kinetics and plasma concentrations of 26-hydroxycholesterol in baboons.

Abstract 26-Hydroxycholesterol (26OHC), a major oxysterol in human blood, is believed to play an important role in reverse cholesterol transport, bile acid formation, and regulation of various cellular processes. Using isotope dilution mass spectrometry, we measured plasma 26OHC concentrations in baboons fed either a high cholesterol/saturated fat (HC-SF) or normal chow diet. Plasma 26OHC levels in baboons were comparable to those reported for humans and were positively correlated with plasma cholesterol concentrations. Animals on the HC-SF diet had significantly higher 26OHC levels (0.274±0.058 μM, mean±S.D.) than those on the chow diet (0.156±0.046 μM). In separate experiments, [3H]26OHC was injected into four tethered baboons, and multiple blood samples drawn over a 1-h period were analyzed for [3H]26OHC and 26OHC. Fitting the specific radioactivity data to a two-pool compartmental model indicated a rapidly turning over plasma compartment (t1/2 2.9–6.0 min) and a second compartment with slow turnover (t1/2 76–333 min). The calculated 26OHC production rate was 2.5 μmol/kg body weight/day. Assuming all 26OHC is converted to bile acids, the 26OHC production rate corresponds to about 10% of total bile acid production in adult baboons. These results indicate that rapid turnover of plasma 26OHC at submicromolar concentrations could significantly contribute to bile acid synthesis.
Experience with continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis during the first year of life

The clinical experience in eight infants aged 5.8±2.3 (SD) months at the initiation of continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) is described. BUN, creatinine, albumin, calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase measurements were performed serially and no changes were seen throughout the follow-up period. Mean total energy and protein intake were 94±8% and 79±9% of the recommended. The initial and final standard deviation scores (SDS) for height were −1.42±1.32 and −2.47±1.36 (P<0.001), respectively. The SDS for body weight and head circumference were −1.67±0.71 and −1.67±1.04, respectively, at the beginning of the study and −1.83±0.98 and −1.88±1.52, respectively, at the end of the period of observation. The incidence of peritonitis was one episode every 11.6 patient months; six patients developed nine hernias. The present study demonstrates that CCPD is an acceptable dialytic modality, with minimal morbidity, for the management of infants awaiting renal transplantation.
Robust control of processes subject to saturation nonlinearities

Abstract Motivated by current practice, a two-step design technique for saturating systems is studied. First an “optimal” (for example in the H∞ sense) linear controller is designed neglecting saturation. Then a saturation compensation scheme (anti-windup) is designed which provides graceful degradation of closed-loop performance in the face of saturation. The focus in this paper is on the second step, and obtaining general results and insights applicable to any (linear) system subject to saturation. A design technique is developed which results in effective saturation compensation for a given multivariable plant and linear compensation design. For particular controller choices the resulting saturation compensator is shown to be equivalent to proven techniques includin g anti-rest windup and internal model control (IMC). Tools are developed for robust stability and performance analysis of nonlinear systems. Well-known structured singular value robustness tests for linear systems are extended to a class of nonlinear systems. Sufficient conditions are developed which guarantee closed-loop stability for all plants in a structured uncertainty set and for all nonlinearities of a specified form. These tests result in simple conditions on the initial linear controller design which must be satisfied in order to guarantee robust stability of the saturating plant. In some instances this requires that the original linear design be detuned. A procedure for performing this detuning is outlined. A promising single-step procedure for the synthesis of optimal robust linear controllers for saturating systems is also outlined. While this approach lacks the simplicity of the two-level decomposition, it appears to have promise for situations where the impact of the saturation on the closed loop is severe.
Considerations for very-high-power accelerators

Abstract A Heavy Ion Fusion powerplant driver, if built today, would become the highest average-power accelerator ever built, probably by at least an order of magnitude. However, if some of the projects being planned now are constructed, there will be several plants of comparable or greater average power. We will look at ways in which large science projects are supported and at what steps must be taken for a project to obtain international support. We will also note how large science construction projects are being organized as costs and visibility increase. The physics aspects of large, high-power accelerators will be noted with the particular vantage of the advisory committee for the 170 MW proton linac being designed by the Los Alamos team for the Accelerator Production of Tritium (APT). Although a cw proton linac is very different from a driver with its pulsed beams of heavy ions, designers of both facilities need to be extraordinarily careful to protect against beam loss. Also, both facilities are required to have very high availability. Utilities have made reliability and availability extremely important requirements, while the APT requires high reliability to achieve its production goals.