cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endothelin-1 Alters the Contractile Phenotype of Cultured Embryonic Smooth Muscle Cells

Abstract Smooth muscle tissues may be classified into phasic (fast) or tonic (slow) contractile phenotypes. This study was initiated to examine the specification of these phenotypes during development and the role of growth factors in this process. We used myosin light chain 17 (MLC 17 ) and myosin heavy chain transcript splice variants as markers of the tonic (aortic) and phasic (intestinal) smooth muscle phenotypes in chick embryos. By reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, we determined embryonic days 6 to 16 to be a critical period for the establishment of these phenotypes. During this period, endothelin-1 is present at 40-fold-higher levels in aortic compared with intestinal tissues. To test the hypothesis that endothelin-1 may be involved in establishing the aortic (tonic) phenotype, we developed a system in which embryonic smooth muscle cells exhibit phasic and tonic contractile properties in vitro. Single-cell force measurements showed that cultured embryonic gizzard (phasic) cells developed force more rapidly (8±2 seconds) and achieved greater force (3.0±0.7 μN) than did cultured embryonic aortic (tonic) cells (20±0.7 seconds, 0.76±0.01 μN; P 17 splicing to the tonic pattern. These results demonstrate that endothelin-1 is highly enriched in developing aortic compared with intestinal tissues and can convert phasic smooth muscle cells to the tonic type in vitro, suggesting a role for this growth factor during development in determining the contractile phenotype of smooth muscle cells.
Eicosanoids mediate nodulation reactions to bacterial infections in larvae of the butterfly, Colias eurytheme.

Abstract Nodulation is the first, and qualitatively predominant, cellular defense reaction to bacterial infections in insects. Treating larvae of the butterfly Colias eurytheme with the eicosanoid biosynthesis inhibitor dexamethasone, strongly impaired nodulation reactions to bacterial infections. The influence of dexamethasone was reversed by treating infected insects with arachidonic acid, an eicosanoid precursor. An eicosanoid biosynthesis system in C. eurytheme larvae is documented. Specifically, the presence of eicosanoid-precursor polyunsaturated fatty acids in tissue phospholipids was determined, an intracellular phospholipase A2 that can release arachidonic acid from tissue phospholipids was recorded, and eicosanoid biosynthesis, registered as conversion of exogenous radioactive 20:4n–6 into eicosanoids, was observed. These findings support the hypothesis that eicosanoids mediate cellular immune responses to bacterial infections in these butterfly larvae, and more broadly, in most, if not all, insects.
A Comparison of Three Theories of Nursing Used as a Guide for the Nursing Care of an 8-Year-Old Child With Leukemia:

This article evaluates three nursing theories that can be used to provide a framework for holistic pediatric oncology nursing practice: the Roy Adaptation Model, the Neuman Systems Model, and the Orem General Theory of Nursing. Each theory is compared in terms of its view of man, health, environment, nursing, and the nursing process. Critique of each theory is presented. The decision of which theorist to use as a basis for practice is left to the individual nurse. This article explicates the similarities and differences in the three theories.
Multiple utilities and weakness of will: A kantian perspective

Abstract This paper argues that a Kantian model of decision-making, one that incorporates moral duties alongside standard preferences and constraints, can account for the complexities of actual ethical choice within a model with a single (constrained) preference ranking. Multiple utilities are required only to explain the failure to make appropriate decisions. Such occasions, often referred to as cases of weakness of will or akrasia, are easily explained with this approach, which is also consistent with the recent work of philosopher John Searle on action theory and rational choice. More generally, this paper highlights the need for discussion of the will in economics.
A Synthetic Pabulum for the Preservation of Bull Semen

Summary The data presented suggest the following pertinent facts in relation to the storage of bull semen. The addition of blood-fibrin, or arginine, were without measureable effect upon motility of sperm. Glucose additions in concentrations of 0.02 to 0.04 M improved in most cases the storage of bull semen environed in egg yolk-buffer. Freshly purified lecithin, or lipositol from crude soybean lecithin free of free fats or fatty acids with 0.04 M glucose, or with a mixture of 0.02 M galactose and 0.04 M glucose provided a highly effective pabulum for the storage of the sperm. In many experiments a combination of galactose and glucose (conc. indicated above) was superior to glucose alone. Inositol in 0.05 to 0.1 M solutions and in combination with glucose and galactose likewise benefited sperm motility. The addition of certain gums was beneficial while gum damar and gum guaiac were definitely toxic. Certain antibiotics as well as certain of the sulfonamides were effective in controlling bacterial growth without impairment of sperm survival. On the basis of these data a synthetic pabulum for bull sperm storage may be used. Its essential ingredients should include freshly purified lipids, specific sugars—glucose and galactose, a buffer system, a gum to supply the proper physical consistency and an agent to control bacterial contamination.
“REVERSE ECOLOGY” AND THE POWER OF POPULATION GENOMICS

Rapid and inexpensive sequencing technologies are making it possible to collect whole genome sequence data on multiple individuals from a population. This type of data can be used to quickly identify genes that control important ecological and evolutionary phenotypes by finding the targets of adaptive natural selection, and we therefore refer to such approaches as “reverse ecology.” To quantify the power gained in detecting positive selection using population genomic data, we compare three statistical methods for identifying targets of selection: the McDonald–Kreitman test, the mkprf method, and a likelihood implementation for detecting dN/dS > 1. Because the first two methods use polymorphism data we expect them to have more power to detect selection. However, when applied to population genomic datasets from human, fly, and yeast, the tests using polymorphism data were actually weaker in two of the three datasets. We explore reasons why the simpler comparative method has identified more genes under selection, and suggest that the different methods may really be detecting different signals from the same sequence data. Finally, we find several statistical anomalies associated with the mkprf method, including an almost linear dependence between the number of positively selected genes identified and the prior distributions used. We conclude that interpreting the results produced by this method should be done with some caution.
Sub-gap photo-enhanced secondary electron emission from single-crystal CVD diamond

Secondary-electron-emission current measured from high-purity, single-crystal CVD diamond is found to increase when 3.1-eV photons are incident on the hydrogenated surface. Energy spectra indicate that the sub-gap illumination causes the band levels to shift in the bulk, thereby reducing the upwards band bending at the pinned surface.
Inverted metal-organic frameworks: solid-state hosts with modular functionality

Abstract Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline inorganic–organic hybrid materials that consist of metal ions and organic molecules connected in space to produce an infinite one-, two-, or three-dimensional framework. The modularity of MOFs, specifically, the ability to modify the organic and/or inorganic components, offers a ready means to modify and control properties of such materials (e.g. inclusion, magnetism). This review highlights the design and synthesis of cavity-containing and porous MOFs with emphasis on methods that enable the functionalization of interior void spaces with organic groups. A relatively new class of MOFs, known as inverted metal–organic frameworks (IMOFs), which enables organic functionalization using principles of supramolecular chemistry, is discussed. We also briefly outline methods to functionalize the interior spaces of mesoporous materials (MCMs) and zeolites, and suggest that MOFs offer a diverse space within which to place a wide range of organic functionalities.
Hydrodynamics and water quality in western Lake Ontario

Abstract The hydrodynamics and water quality parameters in the nearshore waters of western Lake Ontario (WLO) were examined using time series data from late-spring to early-summer of 2006. In general, the observed water quality parameters were within the expected limits of Lake Ontario. The observations suggest that in this region, the nearshore-offshore gradients of nutrients were influenced by the formation of a coastal boundary layer. Comparison of time series of physical and nutrient measurements reveal that upwelling due to winds from the west and downwelling due to winds from the east affect the water quality during the summer. These observations further confirm that moderate to significant taste and odour events in drinking water were due to strong downwelling episodes of surface water to intake depths in late summer. Resuspension of bottom material by surface wind waves was another mechanism that affects the water quality in WLO.
Comparison of Gingival Health and Gingival Crevicular Fluid Flow in Children With and Without Diabetes

A gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) flow meter was used to measure the GCF flow rate in 56 children with diabetes and 41 children without diabetes. The GCF readings were compared with clinical scores of gingival disease for the same teeth. The children with diabetes had significantly more gingival inflammation than the children without diabetes.
Self‐consistent electrostatic potential due to trapped plasma in the magnetosphere

A steady state solution for the self-consistent electrostatic potential due to a plasma confined in a magnetic flux tube is considered. A steady state distribution function is constructed for the trapped particles from the constants of the motion, in the absence of waves and collisions. Using Liouville's theorem, the particle density along the geomagnetic field is determined and found to depend on the local magnetic field, self-consistent electric potential, and the equatorial plasma distribution function. A hot anisotropic magnetospheric plasma in steady state is modeled by a bi-Maxwellian at the equator. The self-consistent electric potential along the magnetic field is calculated assuming quasineutrality, and the potential drop is found to be approximately equal to the average kinetic energy of the equatorially trapped plasma. The potential is compared with that obtained by Alfven and Falthammar [1963].
Examination of field emission from Lanthanum Hexaboride coated knife edge cathodes

We report experiments and analysis of field emission from metallic knife-edge cathodes coated with thin film Lanthanum Hexaboride (LaB6), a low work function material (∼2.5 eV). The emission current density is found to depend sensitively on film properties, particularly the thickness of the LaB6 layer. Films thinner than approximately 10 nm greatly enhance the emitted current. However, cathodes coated with a thicker layer of LaB6 are observed to emit less current than the uncoated metallic cathode even though the bare metal cathode possesses a higher work function (> 4 eV). A hypothesis is proposed to explain this surprising experimental finding, and a computational model is developed. This simulation model incorporates field emission as well as solid state electron transport from the metal substrate through the LaB6 thin film, and is found to support the proposed hypothesis and agree with experimental observations.
Monoclonal B lymphocytosis versus chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Factors affecting implementation of an absolute threshold

Background: Laboratories utilize diverse methods to determine the absolute count used to distinguish chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) from monoclonal B lymphocytosis, with many using dual platform (DP) methods (flow cytometric percent of CLL-like B cells × hematology analyzer white blood cell count). However, flow cytometric tube-to-tube variation may make interpretation difficult, particularly when the CLL-like B-cell count straddles the recommended threshold. This study investigates the extent, and potential sources, of this variability. Methods: Flow cytometric enumeration was performed on 20 samples with CLL-like B cells and 10 control specimens using single platform (SP) and two DP tubes A: kappa, lambda, CD5, CD10, CD19, CD38, CD45, CD20 and B: FMC-7, CD23, CD19, CD5, with and without racking to remove doublets. In addition, reproducibility studies were performed. Results: Three specimens showed discordant CLL-like B-cell counts relative to the threshold of 5 × 109/L. Bland–Altman analysis demonstrated a systematic bias with DP Tube B > A (5.9%) and SP > DP Tube A (9.5%). The doublet percent varied between specimens, but did not account for the bias between DP tubes. Variation was also seen in enumeration of other cell types, suggesting multiple potential sources of inconsistency. Conclusions: Significant tube-to-tube variation may be seen in CLL-like B-cell counts. The precise cause of these differences is uncertain, but is likely multifactorial. If the clinical utility of an absolute threshold for the diagnosis of CLL can be confirmed, it will be important to establish recommendations for standardization, similar to those employed for CD4 and CD34 enumeration. © 2013 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Adamantinoid basal cell carcinoma: a predictor of more-aggressive clinical behavior.

Background Identifying histopathologic subtypes of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) associated with an aggressive clinical course helps the surgeon to anticipate the size of the postexcision defect and complexity of repair. During Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), we have observed that BCC with adamantinoid histopathologic features tend to be clinically more aggressive. Objective To characterize the subtype of BCC with adamantinoid histopathologic features and determine whether it is clinically more aggressive than other BCCs. Methods and Materials A chart review was conducted of consecutive cases of MMS performed at Stanford University Medical Center for BCC from June 2002 through March 2004. Cases had been prospectively categorized as adamantinoid BCC if they met histopathologic criteria, including uniform clear areas around the individual tumor cells within tumor islands. We retrospectively compared adamantinoid and control cases in terms of patient age, sex, tumor location, number of Mohs stages required, area of post-Mohs defect, and type of repair. Results Four hundred eighty-nine cases of MMS for BCC were reviewed. Forty-four (9%) were adamantinoid BCC. Patients with adamantinoid BCC did not differ statistically from the control group in terms of sex (23% vs 32% female, p = .20) but tended to be older (median age 73 vs 66, p = .04; mean age 70 vs 65 years, p = .05). The distribution of cases on the head and neck differed significantly between the adamantinoid and control groups (p = .02), with more adamantinoid cases located on the nose and ears. Adamantinoid BCC required more stages for clear histologic margins (median 3.00 vs 2.00, p < .001; mean 3.68 vs 2.34, p < .001) and had larger post-Mohs defects (median 3.00 vs 1.68 cm2, p < .001; mean 4.24 vs 2.78 cm2, p = .02). Only 4.5% of adamantinoid BCC cases were able to heal by second intention, with 20.4% requiring complex primary closure. Staged flaps were performed in 13.6% of individuals with adamantinoid BCC. Conclusion Adamantinoid BCC is an aggressive histopathologic subtype in terms of number of stages for clear margins and size of post-Mohs defect. It may also require more-complex repairs. Recognition of this aggressive variant may benefit future patients by facilitating prediction of the clinical extent of tumors.
The use of group programs to improve medication compliance in patients with chronic diseases.

Abstract Non-compliance with medication is one of the major factors in the failure of threrapeutic programs for patients having a chronic disease. The good results of a controlled study on the evolution of schizophrenic patients, who participated in a medication group program aimed at diminishing affective components of negative attitudes towards neuroleptics, are discussed. The building up of specific questionnaires could help in understanding the nature of the prejudices towards the use of medication in patients with chronic diseases. The organization of group programs could diminish patients' prejudices, thus improving compliance.
Assessing the Potential for Direct Feeding Interactions among Larval Black Bass and Larval Shad in Two Southeastern Reservoirs

Abstract We quantified diets of larvae of black bass Micropterus spp., threadfin shad Dorosoma petenense, and gizzard shad D. cepedianum in two Alabama reservoirs, and sampled limnetic and littoral crustacean zooplankton to evaluate the potential for feeding competition. Diet overlap between larval black bass and larval shad never exceeded 17%, was less than 5% on 12 of 14 sample dates, and was greatest early, when zooplankton was most abundant. Copepod nauplii and cyclopoid copepods were responsible for over 95% of the diet overlap between larval bass and shad; however, larval black bass consumed longer individuals within both prey taxa than did either shad species. Further, the timing of greatest diet overlap was during peak zooplankton abundance. We conclude that direct negative feeding interactions among larval shad and larval black bass are of little biological importance.
Transcriptional regulation of the human ADP-ribosylation factor 5 (ARF5) gene.

Hybridization of a blot containing 50 human RNAs with an ADP-ribosylation factor 5-specific (ARF5) oligonucleotide probe revealed that the ARF5 gene is expressed in all tissues; however, the level of expression varies significantly with highest levels in pancreas, pituitary gland, and placenta. The 5′-flanking region of the human ARF5 gene lacks a TATA or CAAT box and is highly GC-rich. Primer extension analysis indicates that transcription initiates at a discrete site 62 bp 5′ to the start of translation; however, the sequence surrounding the transcription initiation site does not resemble the initiator elements described for other TATA-less genes. Transient transfection of ARF5/luciferase deletion constructs into human IMR-32 neuroblastoma cells revealed that sequences within 169 bp of the transcription initiation site were necessary for full expression. Two GC boxes within this region were modified by site-directed mutagenesis and found to be critical for expression of the reporter constructs. Electrophoretic mobility-shift assays demonstrated specific DNA/protein complexes could be formed with oligonucleotides containing each of the GC boxes and these complexes could be effectively competed by oligonucleotides containing either ARF5 Sp1 site or by an oligonucleotide containing a previously characterized Sp1-binding sequence. The level of ARF5 gene expression, therefore, is dependent upon Sp1 or an Sp1-like factor but does not rely upon a canonical initiator element for accurate transcription initiation.
The role of individual recognition by odors in the social interactions of the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus).

This study attempts to determine the importance of individual recognition by odors in the social interactions of male Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus). The first experiment tested the effects of anosmia on social interactions. Twentyfour pairs of male gerbils were divided into two groups (experimental and control). Experimental animals were made anosmic by bathing their nasal mucosa with 7% solution of ZnSO4. Control animals were treated with distilled water. Following treatment, control and experimental animals were tested with both familiar and unfamiliar conspecifics, and the frequency and types of social behaviors were compared. The results showed that anosmic animals apparently cannot distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar conspecifics and, therefore, that they treat all other gerbils in the same manner that they treat familiar animals. Control animals, on the other hand, showed significant differences in the frequency and types of behaviors directed towards familiar and unfamiliar conspecifics. The second experiment tested the effects of unfamiliar odors on social behaviors. Twelve pairs of familiar male gerbils were tested under three conditions : with soiled shavings from their own home cage (own familiar odors), with clean shavings, and with soiled shavings from the cage of an unfamiliar pair of conspecifics (unfamiliar odors). The results showed that gerbils can detect unfamiliar conspecific odors and that the presence of such odors can affect the social behaviors of a pair of familiar animals. Pairs of familiar gerbils showed a high frequency of social interactions when in the presence of their own familiar odors, but a reduced frequency when tested with unfamiliar conspecific odors or with clean shavings. It is suggested that this decrease in social behaviors could have been due to changes in levels of arousal or to competing exploratory responses. These experiments thus demonstrate that individual differences in the biological odors of the Mongolian gerbil play an essential role in the recognition of individuals and in the normal pattern of social behaviors of this species.
The inhibitory properties of avian ovoinhibitors against proteolytic enzymes

Abstract 1. 1. Ovoinhibitors were isolated from egg whites of chicken, turkey, duck, penguin, and quail. Those from chicken, turkey, duck, and quail inhibited the proteolytic enzymes bovine trypsin, bovine α-chymotrypsin, subtilisin, and Aspergillus oryzae alkaline proteinase. Combining ratios of 2 trypsin and 2 α-chymotrypsin per 48 000 mol. wt. of ovoinhibitor were found. α-Chymotrypsin and subtilisin competed for the same binding areas. Sites for trypsin and α-chymotrypsin (or subtilisin) were independent and noncompetitive. The ovoinhibitor from penguin egg white inhibited trypsin, subtilisin, and A. oryzae proteinase, but not α-chymotrypsin. 2. 2. Reductive methylation of amino groups of chicken, turkey, or quail ovoinhibitors had no effect on their capacity to inhibit trypsin, α-chymotrypsin, subtilisin or A. oryzae proteinase. Modification of the same ovoinhibitors with 1,2-cyclohexane-dione, an arginine reagent, abolished their trypsin-inhibitory activity. Arginine residues were thus found essential for the trypsin-inhibitory activity of these ovoinhibitors.
Acetylation of MKP-1 and the Control of Inflammation

Innate immune responses mediated by Toll-like receptors (TLRs), a class of pattern-recognition receptors, play a critical role in the defense against microbial pathogens. However, excessive TLR-mediated responses result in sepsis, autoimmunity, and chronic inflammation. To prevent deleterious activation of TLRs, cells have evolved multiple mechanisms that inhibit innate immune reactions. Stimulation of TLRs induces the expression of the gene encoding the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), a nuclear-localized dual-specificity phosphatase that preferentially dephosphorylates p38 MAPK and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), resulting in the attenuation of TLR-triggered production of proinflammatory cytokines. MKP-1 is posttranslationally modified by multiple mechanisms, including phosphorylation. A study now demonstrates that MKP-1 is also acetylated on a key lysine residue following stimulation of TLRs. Acetylation of MKP-1 promotes the interaction of MKP-1 with its substrate p38 MAPK, which results in dephosphorylation of p38 MAPK and the inhibition of innate immunity.
Single crystal susceptibility measurements of a one-dimensional Ising ferromagnet, FeTAB

Abstract FeTAB, [((CH3)3NH)FeBr3·2H2O], is the ferrous bromide member of a family of one-dimensional isostructural compounds which consist of chains of well isolated bihalide-bridged metal ions. The previously studied chloride analog, FeTAC, has been shown to be an excellent example of a one-dimensional Ising ferromagnet. In this paper we present the single crystal susceptibilities of FeTAB. The intrachain exchange strength has been determined to be 5.4 K, a factor of three lower than that of FeTAC. The interchain exchange strength is found to be z'J' / k = -0.04 K. The critical ratio (kTc / J) for FeTAB is 0.24 and is therefore intermediate between those of the corresponding iron and cobalt chlorides, FeTAC (kTc/J = 0.18) and CoTAC (kTc/J = 0.30).
Short response time fiber-coupled photorefractive ultrasonic demodulator

An improved phase demodulator for the detection of ultrasound based on two wave mixing (TWM) in semi-insulating photorefractive GaAs crystal is presented. A new optical layout is proposed in which the total laser power is injected into the crystal to reduce the grating buildup time. The device is then less sensitive to ambient vibrations or motion of the inspected part. To reduce the sensitivity of the device to amplitude fluctuations, a balanced receiver with a large etendue was developed. The measured rejection ratio of this balanced receiver is 50 dB. However, in this new optical configuration the signal and pump beam paths cannot be made equal which results in some sensitivity to high frequency laser phase noise. In this paper the results and performances of this novel configuration operating with CW and pulsed lasers are discussed. A comparison with the conventional confocal Fabry-Perot demodulator is also presented.
Modulation of Chloride Secretion Across the Pigmented Rabbit Conjunctiva

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether active Cl−secretion in the pigmented rabbit conjunctiva was subject to cAMP, Ca2+and protein kinase C (PKC) modulation. The excised pigmented rabbit conjunctivas were mounted in the modified Ussing-type chambers for measurement of unidirectional36Cl fluxes under the open-circuit condition and of the short-circuit current (Isc), potential difference, and transconjunctival electrical resistance. The results indicate that Cl−secretion across the conjunctiva was abolished by mucosal application of 1 m M N-phenylanthranilic acid and was reduced by 40% by serosal application of 10 μ M bumetanide. Net Cl−flux was stimulated by 133% by 1 m M 8-Br cAMP, 107% by 10 μ M A23187, and 87% by 1 μ M phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), suggesting that cAMP, Ca2+, and PKC all modulated active Cl−secretion, respectively. There existed a linear correlation between measured changes in net Cl−flux and observed changes in Isc(r2=0.99). The serial treatment of the conjunctiva with (a) 1 m M 8-Br cAMP and 10 μ M A23187 and (b) 10 μ M A23187 and 1 μ M PMA resulted in sequence-independent, additive stimulation of Isc. In the case of 1 m M 8-Br cAMP and 1 μ M PMA, additive stimulation of Iscwas observed only when 1 m M 8-Br cAMP was added prior to 1 μ M PMA. These results suggest that a given pharmacological agent may affect more than one channel type and that there might be a possible connection among the channels at the signal transduction level. In summary, Cl−appears to enter the pigmented rabbit conjunctiva from the serosal fluid via Na+-(K+)-2Cl−cotransport process and exit to the mucosal fluid via channels, resulting in active Cl−secretion. Active Cl−secretion in the pigmented rabbit conjunctiva appears to be modulated by cAMP, Ca2+, and PKC.
Common infection control practices in the emergency department: A literature review

Background Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are a major health concern, despite being largely avoidable. The emergency department (ED) is an essential component of the health care system and subject to workflow challenges, which may hinder ED personnel adherence to guideline-based infection prevention practices. Methods The purpose of this review was to examine published literature regarding adherence rates among ED personnel to selected infection control practices, including hand hygiene (HH) and aseptic technique during the placement of central venous catheters and urinary catheters. We also reviewed studies reporting rates of ED equipment contamination. PubMed was searched for studies that included adherence rates among ED personnel to HH during routine patient care, aseptic technique during the placement of central venous catheters and urinary catheters, and rates of equipment contamination. Results In total, 853 studies was screened, and 589 abstracts were reviewed. The full texts of 36 papers were examined, and 23 articles were identified as meeting inclusion criteria. Eight studies used various scales to measure HH compliance, which ranged from 7.7% to 89.7%. Seven articles examined central venous catheters inserted in the ED or by emergency medicine residents. Detail of aseptic technique practices during urinary catheterization was lacking. Four papers described equipment contamination in the ED. Conclusion Standardized methods and definitions of compliance monitoring are needed to compare results across settings.
Molar enthalpy and molar volume of methylene and benzene homologues in reversed-phase liquid chromatography

In this study, thermodynamic properties are measured for methylene and benzene homologues in reversed-phase liquid chromatography using octadecylsilica stationary phases and methanol mobile phase. The change in molar enthalpy (delta H degree) is determined from graphs of the logarithm of the capacity factor versus the inverse temperature (15 to 60 degrees C), whereas the change in molar volume (delta V degrees) is determined from graphs of the logarithm of the capacity factor versus pressure (830 to 5000 p.s.i.). For octadecylsilica phases with low bonding density (2.7 mumol m-2), delta H degree and delta V degree are small and are relatively unaffected by temperature and pressure. These thermodynamic parameters are linearly related to the homologue number for the methylene homologues, but not for the benzene homologues. For the ethylene group, delta delta H degree and delta delta V degree are in the order of -0.41 kcal mol-1 and -1.0 cm3 mol-1, respectively, at 30 degrees C. As the bonding density increases (5.4 mumol m-2), the molar volume and molar enthalpy decrease in a significant and nonlinear manner with the homologue number. Moreover, these thermodynamic parameters are markedly affected by temperature and pressure. For the ethylene group, delta delta H degree and delta delta V degree are in the order of -3.65 kcal mol-1 and -14.1 cm3 mol-1, respectively, at 30 degrees C. The theoretical and practical implications of these measurements are discussed with respect to the retention mechanism in reversed-phase liquid chromatography.
Analytical performance evaluation for autonomous sensor fusion

A distributed data fusion system consists of a network of sensors, each capable of local processing and fusion of sensor data. There has been a great deal of work in developing distributed fusion algorithms applicable to a network centric architecture. Currently there are at least a few approaches including naive fusion, cross-correlation fusion, information graph fusion, maximum a posteriori (MAP) fusion, channel filter fusion, and covariance intersection fusion. However, in general, in a distributed system such as the ad hoc sensor networks, the communication architecture is not fixed. Each node has knowledge of only its local connectivity but not the global network topology. In those cases, the distributed fusion algorithm based on information graph type of approach may not scale due to its requirements to carry long pedigree information for decorrelation. In this paper, we focus on scalable fusion algorithms and conduct analytical performance evaluation to compare their performance. The goal is to understand the performance of those algorithms under different operating conditions. Specifically, we evaluate the performance of channel filter fusion, Chernoff fusion, Shannon Fusion, and Battachayya fusion algorithms. We also compare their results to Naive fusion and "optimal" centralized fusion algorithms under a specific communication pattern.
The seasonal evolution of reactive chlorine in the northern hemisphere stratosphere.

In situ measurements of chlorine monoxide (ClO) at mid- and high northern latitudes are reported for the period October 1991 to February 1992. As early as mid-December and throughout the winter, significant enhancements of this ozone-destroying radical were observed within the polar vortex shortly after temperatures dropped below 195 K. Decreases in ClO observed in February were consistent with the rapid formation of chlorine nitrate (ClONO2) by recombination of ClO with nitrogen dioxide (NO2) released photochemically from nitric acid (HNO3). Outside the vortex, ClO abundances were higher than in previous years as a result of NO(x) suppression by heterogeneous reactions on sulfate aerosols enhanced by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo.
RADIANT HEAT TRANSFER TO ABSORBING FLUID MEDIA

Radiant heat transfer from heated cylindrical enclosure with black/gray walls to absorbing gas or gas having black particles, calculating absorption coefficients
Post-transcriptional control of cytokine production

The cytokine-encoding messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules transcribed in the nucleus acquire a protein coat that facilitates nuclear export, influences cytoplasmic localization, and determines stability and translational competence. The composition of this coat is determined by sequence elements that recruit proteins that influence the rate of translation and/or mRNA decay. Some of these regulatory proteins direct their associated mRNA molecules to discrete cytoplasmic foci (stress granules and processing bodies) that are essential in 'programming' mRNA 'metabolism'. Studies have begun to identify how these various mechanisms are integrated and regulated to determine the amount of cytokine production in cells involved in immune responses. Understanding of these mechanisms has identified targets for the development of new classes of immunomodulatory drugs.
Redness as a measure of the production cost of ornamental coloration

Understanding the relative costs of different forms of ornamental displays is fundamental to research on the evolution of such traits. For traits such as elongated tails, assessing the degree of ex...
Building organizational capabilities in the Canadian energy sector

The article discusses the relationship between proactive environmental strategies, organizational capabilities and competitive benefits of the oil and gas industry in Canada. Data from a survey of the Canadian oil and gas industry has found that investments by the industry in proactive environmental initiatives should pay off in increased competitiveness. Interviews of 27 managers in the Canadian oil and gas industry found that the managers of the more environmentally proactive firms felt their environmental practices led to several competitive benefits. These included reduced costs, increased innovations, and improved relations with stakeholders.
Uses of GnRH Agonists

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists are a relatively new class of drugs, which, when chronically administered, result in marked reductions in blood levels of testosterone and estrogen. These drugs include leuprolide acetate (Lupron); the first GnRH agonist to be approved in the United States, nafarelin acetate (Synarel); and goserelin acetate (Zoladex). Approved indications for these drugs, depending on the specific agent, include advanced prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty. These and other investigational GnRH agonists are also being evaluated in many other diseases, including uterine fibroids, polycystic ovarian disease, breast cancer, fibrocystic breast disease, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and irritable bowel syndrome. Because of their therapeutic potential in many endocrinologic disorders, the GnRH agonists represent one of the most important advances in hormonal therapy in the past few decades. Thus, it appears likely that in the 1990s a greater number of patients will be receiving these agents. This article summarizes the application of GnRH agonist drugs in clinical practice, their side effects, and important information for patient use.
Optical transfer function bench for aerial cameras

An optical bench has been constructed specifically for the evaluation of image quality in aerial survey cameras of up to 23- × 23-cm format and focal lengths to 310 mm. It is able to study the full field of super-wide-angle cameras without auxiliary arrangements. Line spread functions are measured directly, recorded digitally, and converted to OTF by computation. Design considerations are given, system components described, and first results presented.
Kinetic model of 2-deoxyglucose metabolism using brain slices.

A six-compartment, nine-parameter kinetic model of 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) metabolism, which includes bidirectional tissue transport, phosphorylation, two-step dephosphorylation, phosphoisomerization, and conjugation to UDP and macromolecules, has been derived. Data for analysis were obtained from 540- and 1,000-μm-thick hippocampal and hypothalamic brain slices, which were incubated in buffer containing [14C]2DG, frozen, extracted with perchlorate, and separated on anion-exchange columns. Solutions of the equations of the model were fit to the data by means of nonlinear least-squares analysis. These studies suggest that dephosphorylation is adequately described by a single reaction so that the model reduces to eight parameters. The in vitro rate constants for transport, phosphorylation, and dephosphorylation are very similar to prior in vivo results. The phosphoisomerization rate constant is similar to dephosphorylation, so glycosylated macromolecules slowly accumulate and gradually assume larger relative i...
Design and performance of an electron-positron pair detector

Abstract An electron-positron pair spectrometer with nearly 4π acceptance is described. The spectrometer can detect e + e − emission from nuclear 0 → 0 transitions and can be operated in coincidence with (backscattered) particles from a reaction exciting the pair-emitting state. The spectrometer has a cylindrical design with the target at the center. A cylinder of thin plastic scintillator divided into four segments identifies the electrons and positrons ( ΔE ) and is surrounded by a cylinder of thicker plastic scintillator also segmented into four quadrants to determine the total pair energy ( E ). The four ΔE scintillators are rotated 45° relative to the four thick E scintillators to increase the probability of identifying both members of the electron-positron pair. The efficiency of the spectrometer is determined at two different pair energies from measurements of the pair branches (100%) of the 0 2 + → 0 1 + transitions in 40 Ca and 16 O. Pair detection efficiencies of (23.6±0.3)% and (36.3±0.7)% are obtained for the 3.35 MeV, 40 Ca and 6.05 MeV, 16 O transitions, respectively.
A Thermoelastic Asperity Contact Model Considering Steady-State Heat Transfer

One of the important issues in mixed lubrication is the contact problem involving frictional heating in the interface of contacting bodies. Due to contact and rubbing, temperature in the solid media varies, causing the contact conditions to change as a consequence of thermal distortion. A thermoelastic model for rough surfaces is developed for asperity contact subject to steady-state heat transfer. In this model, asperity distortion due to thermal and elastic-plastic deformations is considered. The thermal deformation is related to the contact pressure through a thermal influence function. Matrices for thermal and elastic influence functions are solved with the finite element method and the contact problem is computed with a mathematical programming method. Numerical analyses on the thermoelastic contact involving a rough surface reveal that asperity thermal distortion affects the contact pressure and surface separation at high frictional heat and deep asperity penetration. Presented at the 54th Annual Me...
Iterative Symbol Decoding of Distributed Channel Encoded Fixed-Length Codes for Cooperative Communications

In this paper, we study the iterative decoding of distributed channel encoded fixed-length codes for power-efficient cooperative transmissions. By exploiting the technique of iterative source channel decoding (ISCD), the iterative decoding for cooperative transmissions exploits two types of the redundant information: the residual redundancy inherently remaining in the source codes, and the artificial redundant information provided by the distributed channel coder. To avoid the information loss on the bit-to-symbol conversion, we adopt symbol-level ISCD scheme consisting of the symbol-level channel decoder and the symbol-level source decoder. Our proposed iterative decoding can improve parameter signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) performances by iteratively refining the extrinsic information for the source and the distributed channel decoders. Furthermore, the proposed source decoding algorithm based on the symbol-level BCJR algorithm enables the iterative decoding to efficiently exploit the extrinsic information conveyed by relay and source nodes. Simulation results show that the proposed iterative decoding scheme with the proposed source decoder and the symbol-level BCJR channel decoder delivers the robust power-efficient performance, and outperforms conventional decoding schemes.
LIVE: A Work-Centered Approach to Support Visual Analytics of Multi-Dimensional Engineering Design Data With Interactive Visualization and Data-Mining

During the process of trade space exploration, information overload has become a notable problem. To find the best design, designers need more efficient tools to analyze the data, explore possible hidden patterns, and identify preferable solutions. When dealing with large-scale, multi-dimensional, continuous data sets (e.g., design alternatives and potential solutions), designers can be easily overwhelmed by the volume and complexity of the data. Traditional information visualization tools have some limits to support the analysis and knowledge exploration of such data, largely because they usually emphasize the visual presentation of and user interaction with data sets, and lack the capacity to identify hidden data patterns that are critical to in-depth analysis. There is a need for the integration of user-centered visualization designs and data-oriented data analysis algorithms in support of complex data analysis. In this paper, we present a work-centered approach to support visual analytics of multi-dimensional engineering design data by combining visualization, user interaction, and computational algorithms. We describe a system, Learning-based Interactive Visualization for Engineering design (LIVE), that allows designer to interactively examine large design input data and performance output data analysis simultaneously through visualization. We expect that our approach can help designers analyze complex design data more efficiently and effectively. We report our preliminary evaluation on the use of our system in analyzing a design problem related to aircraft wing sizing.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Antithrombin Concentrates in Heparin-Resistant Cardiopulmonary Bypass Patients

Antithrombin, a serine protease inhibitor, plays an important role in the regulation of the coagula tion cascade. It inhibits thrombin as well as factors Xa, IXa, XIa, and XIIa. Heparin markedly accelerates the rate at which antithrombin inhibits these enzymes. To prevent the formation of clots in the extracorporeal cir cuit, heparin is used during cardiopulmonary bypass sur gery (CPB). However, in a small proportion of patients, adequate anticoagulation, defined as an activated clotting time (ACT) of >400 s after an intravenous bolus of hep arin in a dose of 300 U/kg, is not achieved. Conventional treatment of heparin resistance includes fresh frozen plasma or large doses of heparin. Antithrombin concen trates were given to 12 patients who were considered to be heparin resistant at our institution. All patients had received >300 U/kg of heparin before antithrombin con centrates were infused. In all patients, the ACT pro longed to >400 s after concentrates were infused, and in nine of 12 cases to >600 s. ...
Use of cold-restraint to examine psychological factors in gastric ulceration

Abstract The influence of prior classical conditioning and predictability of shock on stress-induced gastric ulceration produced by cold-restraint was examined. Optimal durations of cold-restraint treatment were first determined. Secondly, the ulcerogenic effect of reserpine and the ulcer-inhibiting influence of atropine were demonstrated using cold-restraint. Next, it was found that neither prior classical conditioning nor the psychological manipulation of predictability of shock affected gastric ulceration produced by cold-restraint. The final study suggests the hypothesis that hypothermia produced by cold-restraint inhibits the influence of the psychological factors on stress ulceration. Cold-restraint is viewed as an inappropriate technique to use in the further examination of the influence of specific psychological factors on stress-induced ulceration.
On the born approximation in the potential scattering of particles with arbitrary spins

Abstract The Born approximation to the scattering amplitude is discussed for the potential scattering problem with many channels and arbitrary spins. This is done for the full amplitude in both the representation in which magnetic quantum numbers are diagonal and in the helicity representation, and for the partial wave amplitude in the helicity representation. Spin-orbit interactions are also treated. A discussion of the asymptotic behavior for large momentum transfer is given, on the basis of which it is conjectured that for a specified class of potentials the Regge poles will retreat to the left-hand J -plane for high energies.
Protective role of small pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) peptide in diabetic renal injury

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a multifunctional protein with antiangiogenic, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties. PEDF is involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopa...
Copper-catalyzed phosphinidene transfer to ethylene, acetylene, and carbon monoxide: A computational study

A DFT study of phosphinidene transfer by copper model catalysts is reported. PR-transfer pathways are highly exergonic with respect to catalyst and phosphinidene transfer reagent. Calculated free energy barriers by which (dhpe)Cu(PMe) active species yields functionalized products are reasonable for modeled substrates—ethylene, acetylene, and carbon monoxide. Calculations suggest a (dhpe)CuI(-PMe·−) formulation as more appropriate than (dhpe)CuII(=PMe2−). The preferred pathway for production of phosphirane (phosphirene) is via direct [1 + 2] addition of ethylene (acetylene) to the PMe group of (dhpe)Cu(PMe), which contrasts the [2 + 2] mechanism for the reaction of ethylene with Ni0-phosphinidenes. In light of simulations for neutral and cationic models, it is concluded that the extra electron in copper destabilizes [2 + 2] pathways. Calculated energetics for (dhpe)Cu(PMe) versus (en)Cu(PMe), dhpe = 1,2-bis(dihydrophosphino)ethane, en = ethylenediamine, indicate that the former is a more potent for PR-transfer. Thus, it is inferred that modifications that result in a more electron deficient metal center will yield better group transfer catalysts. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010