cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Current pharmacological management of idiopathic overactive bladder in children in the UK: a national survey of practice.

Summary Background Children with daytime urinary incontinence secondary to idiopathic overactive bladder (IOAB) commonly present to paediatric urologists following failure of standard urotherapy and/or 1st-line anticholinergics. Off-label oral medications and intravesical botulinum toxin A (BtA) are being increasingly used for treatment-refractory IOAB, despite the paucity of high-quality evidence and guidelines. Knowledge of contemporary paediatric urologists' practice allows specialists to keep up-to-date with current trends in the management of IOAB in children. Objectives 1. To present an analysis of contemporary tertiary management of IOAB in children and 2. to highlight current trends in practice and identify areas of high variability in care for targeted research. Methods Paediatric urologists (55 individuals) who attended the 2018 national British Association of Paediatric Urologists (BAPU) congress responded to a 20-question survey presented at the congress. Respondents could submit one answer per question, and one survey was taken per respondent, using secure software to disable any manipulation. Answers were analysed prospectively by a single reviewer. Results Of UK paediatric urologists, 98% regularly manage children with IOAB, 48% use 48-h frequency/volume charts and others use three or seven-day bladder diaries to aid diagnosis. Oxybutynin is the 1st-line therapy for 85%, 2nd-line is tolterodine (53%), and 3rd-line is solifenacin (41%). Mirabegron is used either alone or in combination with solifenacin as 4th-line management by 55%. Those who use intravesical Botulinum toxin A (BtA) accounted for 81% and 84% of these perform invasive urodynamic assessment prior to BtA administration. Post-BtA, assessment was clinical in 18%, 24% use invasive urodynamics, whereas uroflowmetry is preferred by 58%. Of the paediatric urologists, 72% believe the most clinically significant outcome of treatment is patient-reported improvement. Treatment success is defined variably: 49% define success as completely dry, whereas 35% accept a 90% improvement as success. Conclusions Off-label medications are being used widely either alone or in combination by paediatric urologists. In oral therapy-resistant IOAB, BtA is being used by the majority of specialists, usually after formal urodynamic assessment. However, post-BtA assessment and evaluation of treatment success for IOAB are variable. Download : Download high-res image (370KB) Download : Download full-size image Summary Fig. .
Comparison of Fixation Target Stability for RareBit and Humphrey Visual Field Tests

Prior studies have demonstrated that RBP is as sensitive and specific as HVF with regard to detecting visual field abnormalities across a broad range of ophthalmic conditions. RBP does not, however, provide fixation monitoring, relying instead on a kinetic fixation target to encourage fixation. We measured how well subjects fixate on the RBP kinetic target in comparison to the static HVF fixation target.
Implementation of an EMR integrated pathway for the management of malignant bowel obstruction.

813Background: Despite published evidence based interventions for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO), implementation of a standard pathway is challenging. We hypothesized that using industrial engin...
Black Misandry and the Killing of Black Boys and Men

The ways in which Black boys and men are framed and projected within U.S. society reveal clear messages of Black misandry, Negrophobia, and scripting of Black male bodies. From “tar baby” to “thug”...
Heritage justice, conservation, and tourism in the Greater Caribbean

Heritage Justice in the Greater Caribbean is a vital component of the region’s sustainable development. Its Early Modern heritage is inextricably linked to the brutal regimes of European colonial e...
The effect of bupivacaine single use or combined with sufentanil for pregnant woman in caesarean operation with chills and pain

Objective To observe and explore the effect of bupivacaine (BUP) single use or combined with sufentanil (SUF) for pregnant woman in caesarean operation with chills and pain. Methods 96 pregnant women with caesarean section were selected, they were randomly divided into observation group and control group by random number method, each group with 48 cases.Patients in the observation group accepted BUP combined with SUF treatment, while the control group only received BUP treatment.The intraoperative and postoperative data of maternal chills and dragging pain, and the incidence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups. Results The sensory block onset time and duration of the observation group were (1.7±0.5)min and (126.2±9.5)min, which in the control group were (2.0±0.4)min and (9.1±11.0)min, the differences between the two groups were statistically significant (t=2.295, 15.88, all P<0.05).For chills and stretch of pregnant women, the number of the observation group were 2 casesand 3cases, which in the control group were 9cases and 10cases, the differences between the two groups were statistically significant (χ2=5.031, 4.360, all P<0.05).No patient had toxicity of local anesthetics between two groups.Total anesthesia effective rate of the observation group was 97.9%, which of the control group was 83.3%, the total anesthesia effect of the observation group was better than the control group (χ2=4.414, P<0.01). Conclusion BUP combined with SUF treatment has significant effect for pregnant women in caesarean operation, as well as can significantly relieve the pregnant women' chills and pain. Key words: Bupivacaine; Sufentanil; Cesarean section
Everything Illuminated-Clostridium perfringens β-toxin.

In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe, Bruggisser et al. show that Clostridium perfringens β-toxin (CPB) binds platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) (also known as CD31) to induce membrane pores. The discovery explains the cell type specificity for CPB and, in large part, the basic pathophysiology of disease.
The Role of the Public Health Community in Detecting and Responding to Domestic Terrorism Involving Infectious Agents

The recognition of and response to actual terrorist use of an infectious agent are complicated. In contrast to chemical agents or explosive devices, whose destructive impacts are immediately recognizable, covert delivery of biological agents in the absence of notification of intent would cause disease only after an incubation period during which exposed persons could be widely dispersed. Immunohistochemical staining of autopsy tissues confirmed the existence of a previously unrecognized hantavirus approximately 1 month after the initial recognition of cases of the syndrome, but several months elapsed before the virus was finally isolated in cell culture. This experience highlights the critical importance of highly trained field and laboratory personnel, appropriate biocontainment facilities, and the laboratory reagents and sophisticated molecular techniques, all of which must be available for the detection of candidate agents that terrorists might use. The potential for bioterrorism emphasizes the urgency of strengthening the public health capacity to detect and respond to emerging infectious diseases, particularly the need to forge and strengthen partnerships between the public health and emergency response sectors. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains expertise in the detection of virtually all infectious agents pathogenic for humans and is able to use modem molecular techniques, traditional procedures for organism cultivation. Whether epidemics are the result of terrorism or natural factors, CDC and the public health community remain at the forefront of the global epidemic response.
IMACTIV: A Pilot Study of the Impact of Unrestricted Activity Following Urethral Sling Surgery.

Objectives To compare continence outcomes and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among women with limited activity restrictions vs. traditional restrictions following mid-urethral sling (MUS) surgery. Methods Thirty-six women who underwent MUS surgery were randomized: 1) the Restrictions group was given traditional postoperative restrictions for six weeks while 2) the Limited Restrictions group was instructed to resume normal activities other than pelvic rest. Patients undergoing concomitant surgery for Stage 3 and 4 prolapse were excluded. Participants completed questionnaires related to urinary symptoms (UDI-6, IIQ-7) for continence outcomes and HRQOL (SF-12®) at baseline, one to six weeks, three months, six months, and at least one year after surgery. Results There was no difference in mean scores on the UDI-6 or IIQ-7 between groups at baseline or any time after surgery. The Limited Restrictions group reported better scores than the Restrictions group on the SF-12® mental health component at one week (56.7 vs. 50.2, p=0.01) and four weeks (58.4 vs. 53.3, p=0.04). The Restrictions group reported better SF-12® physical health scores at five weeks (55.7 vs. 53.0, p=0.02) but there was no difference in HRQOL scores between the two groups at any other time. Conclusions In this pilot study, there was no difference in continence outcomes for women with traditional versus limited activity restrictions following MUS surgery. There were differences in HRQOL in the early post-operative period, but these differences were not sustained. Larger prospective studies are needed, but it appears that activity restrictions after MUS surgery may not be necessary.
Hunting for talent: Firm-driven labor market search in the United States

This article analyzes the phenomenon of firm-driven labor market search—or outbound recruiting—where recruiters are increasingly “hunting for talent” rather than passively relying on workers to search for and apply to job vacancies. Our research methodology leverages three approaches. We first develop a labor market model that incorporates firm-driven search and then derive the equilibrium conditions under which firms use outbound recruiting and study its effect on hiring strategy, performance, and worker outcomes. We then test our model’s predictions using two data sources representing worker outcomes and firm choices. First, data from a nationality representative survey of 13,000 US workers shows that the percentage of workers hired through recruiting has increased from 4.2% in 1991 to 17.8% in 2020. This share is larger for higher-skilled workers, those with online profiles on LinkedIn, and those employed in high-technology hubs (e.g., Silicon Valley). We complement this analysis with data on the near universe of online job postings from 2010 to 2020. Here, we find that firms, especially those that need high-skilled workers, are hiring more recruiters with significant skill in scouring the internet for passive candidates. Indeed, demand for such recruiters has tripled over the past decade. A key implication of our model and findings is that outbound recruiting is most beneficial for firms that have higher skill demands, and at the margin, may shift firms to seek out higher-skilled workers.
Using the AAHPERD Basketball Skill Test for Women

(1979). Using the AAHPERD Basketball Skill Test for Women. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 50, No. 9, pp. 72-73.
A new method of parameter-varying filter design for LPV systems with time-varying state delay

A filter design method for continuous-time linear parameter-varying (LPV) systems with time-varying delay is presented in this paper. The design objective is to ensure that the estimation error system is stable and a prescribed level of performance, namely, the induced energy-to-energy gain from the disturbance input to the estimation error signal, is satisfied. The filter synthesis conditions are formulated in terms of linear matrix inequality (LMI) optimization problems. The proposed design method is finally validated through a numerical example and the results are compared with a related study.
Prototype phantoms for characterization of ultralow field magnetic resonance imaging.

Purpose Prototype phantoms were designed, constructed, and characterized for the purpose of calibrating ultralow field magnetic resonance imaging (ULF MRI) systems. The phantoms were designed to measure spatial resolution and to quantify sensitivity to systematic variation of proton density and relaxation time, T1. Methods The phantoms were characterized first with conventional magnetic resonance scanners at 1.5 and 3 T, and subsequently with a prototype ULF MRI scanner between 107 and 128 . Results The ULF system demonstrated a 2-mm spatial resolution and, using T1 measurements, distinguished aqueous solutions of MnCl2 differing by 20 [Mn2+]. Conclusion The prototype phantoms proved well-matched to ULF MRI applications, and allowed direct comparison of the performance of ULF and clinical systems. Magn Reson Med 72:1793–1800, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bipartisanship in a Polarized Age: The U.S. Congress and Foreign Policy Sanctions

Rising partisanship and ideological polarization are defining features of contemporary American politics, but relatively little attention has been given to how this growing polarization and partisanship are affecting U.S. foreign policy making. I argue that foreign policy bipartisanship still occurs with some frequency because many foreign policy issues do not break down along partisan ideological lines, and lawmakers of both parties tend to see the world differently than the president. I apply my argument to the issue of foreign policy sanctions – an issue on which Congressional Republicans and Democrats often favor highly punitive measures that are resisted by the president. My analysis of three recent major U.S. sanctions debates shows that bipartisan majorities in Congress have driven the enactment of strict human rights and nonproliferation sanctions concerning Russia and Iran, and have nearly succeeded in sanctioning China for its currency policies – even though the president has resisted these laws and bills in whole or in significant part. The analysis demonstrates that foreign policy bipartisanship remains alive; that Congress remains capable of challenging the president successfully on important foreign policy issues; and that congressional activism on sanctions issues is motivated not only by interest group pressure, but also by ideational differences in the foreign policy approaches of lawmakers and the president.
Variability in composition of individual botanical fractions of Miscanthus × giganteus and their blends

Biorefineries require a consistent biomass feedstock to ensure optimal processing efficiency and a convenient method to evaluate biomass delivered at the factory gate. The combination of fractionation, selective blending of biomass streams, and densification is one strategy of ensuring feedstock with uniform quality attributes. In this study, dry mass fraction and compositional variability of botanical fractions of Miscanthus × giganteus harvested post-senescence were determined. Fourier transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy was used to monitor composition of blends. Results showed that the majority of miscanthus stalks were composed of rind (48–63%) followed by sheath (17–28%), nodes (10–16%), and pith (8–13%). Rind had the highest glucan content (46.1%) while lignin content was highest in node (25.5%) and rind fractions (24.2%). Ash content was highest in blade fractions (8.9%) and was less than 1% in rind, pith, and nodes. Variability in composition was reflected in the 4250–4350 cm−1 and 5500–...
Strategic Assessments: Assessing Opportunities and Strategies in the Obama Presidency

In The Strategic President, I argued that presidential power is not the power to persuade. Presidents cannot reshape the contours of the political landscape to pave the way for change by establishing an agenda and persuading the public, Congress, and others to support their policies. Instead, successful presidents facilitate change by recognizing opportunities in their environments and fashioning strategies and tactics to exploit them. These conclusions lead us to predict that governing strategies dependent on persuasion will fail. The Obama administration provides an excellent test for these predictions, because it adopted two governing strategies highly dependent upon persuasion: going public and bipartisanship in Congress. In this paper, I analyze the prospects of these strategies for governing adopted by the Obama White House. I find that Barack Obama is only the latest in a long line of presidents who have not been able to transform the political landscape through their efforts at persuasion. When he succeeded in achieving major change, it was by mobilizing those predisposed to support him and driving legislation through Congress on a party-line vote. Moreover, it is entirely possible that the president’s failure to understand the nature of presidential power has undermined his ability to govern in the remainder of his term.
Design of special purpose parallel hardware for real time applications

A methodology for developing special purpose hardware for real time signal processing applications has been described. The developed methodology is used to explain previously developed architectures for two different applications. First application is for the DOA estimation of sonar signals using the MUSIC algorithm. The second application is for separating large number of channels for on-board satellite communication applications. >
Physical and genetic maps of the genome of the heterocyst-forming cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. strain PCC 7120

A restriction map of the chromosome of the cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. strain PCC 7120 was generated by the determination of the order of restriction fragments of the infrequently cleaving restriction endonucleases AvrII, SalI, and PstI. These restriction fragments were resolved by the pulsed homogeneous orthogonal field gel electrophoresis system of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (I. Bancroft and C. P. Wolk, Nucleic Acids Res. 16:7405-7418, 1988). Other infrequently cutting restriction endonucleases (AhaII, Asp718, AsuII, BanII, BglII, BssHII, FspI, NcoI, NruI, SphI, SplI, SstII, and StuI) were identified that could prove useful for higher-resolution mapping. The chromosome was found to be 6.4 megabases in size and circular. Three apparently circular large plasmids (410, 190, and 110 kilobases) were also identified. A genetic map was constructed by hybridization with gene-specific probes. Genes encoding components of the photosynthetic electron transport chain were not within a single tight cluster.
Assessing diets of children and adolescents

Because of the increased interest in the diets of children and adolescents and the possible relation between those diets and adulthood diseases, we reviewed nutritional assessment methods used specifically in young people. The assessment of diets of individual children and adolescents has evolved from Hasse's study of Swiss and Russian girls in 1882 to Burke's development of the dietary history to the Ten State Nutrition Survey. Currently, various government-sponsored surveys and several other assessment programs are studying the nutritional status of children and adolescents. We discuss the methods used in these investigations, compare the available dietary assessment tools (the dietary record, 24-h dietary recall, and food-frequency questionnaire), describe the development of a new food-frequency questionnaire (the Youth-Adolescent Questionnaire), and review new approaches. The data emerging from reproducibility studies suggest that food-frequency questionnaires provide enough accuracy in studies of adolescents to permit individual diets to be related to subsequent health outcomes.
Environmental impacts of on-farm poultry waste disposal - a review.

Abstract This paper reviews information regarding the disposal of on-farm poultry wastes (manure, litter and dead birds) and the effects of poultry waste disposal on environmental quality. Waste composition and production rates are presented. Land disposal of the wastes and subsequent agronomic implications are extensively discussed, but alternative methods of disposal such as composting, biogas generation and others are presented as well. Results of experimental investigations into transformations of poultry waste constituents, particularly nitrogen, are summarized. Both surface and ground water quality are reviewed in relationship to customary methods of poultry waste disposal. The body of available literature is used as a basis for recommended future research, which includes more precise characterization of wastes, improved understanding of the dynamics of poultry waste constituents, and increased efforts to quantify and model water quality impacts of waste disposal.
New definition of remission in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

The extent of clearance of leukemic cells from the blood or bone marrow during the early phase of therapy is an independent prognostic factor in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Several methods are available to measure the minimal residual disease (MRD) remaining after initial intensive chemotherapy. The most promising are flow cytometric detection of aberrant immunophenotypes and polymerase chain reaction analysis of clonal antigen-receptor gene rearrangements. When applied together, these techniques enable one to monitor MRD in virtually all cases of ALL. Patients who achieve an 'immunologic' or 'molecular' remission (ie leukemic involvement of or =5% blast cells in the bone marrow (ie induction failures). Sequential monitoring of MRD can improve the clinical utility of risk assessment still further. Additional studies are needed to determine the critical levels of MRD at various times of treatment and whether therapeutic intervention based on MRD findings can improve clinical outcome.
Importance of hyperexcitability of DRG neurons in neuropathic pain.

Abstract: A number of good animal models have been developed in recent years that provide insights into the mechanisms of neuropathic pain. It now becomes evident that there are two separate peripheral components influencing neuropathic pain: one dependent on the hyperexcitability of axotomized dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and the other independent of this hyperexcitability. The purpose of this review is to consider one of these components, the hyperexcitability of axotomized DRG neurons, as one of the important mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain. Several hours after nerve lesions, some axotomized DRG neurons become hyperexcitable and begin to show ongoing discharges that last many days or weeks. These ectopic discharges then enter the spinal cord and induce central sensitization, the underlying central mechanism for the generation of pain and allodynia. Although the exact causes of the development of hyperexcitability and ectopic discharges are not clear, various ion channels seem to play important roles, particularly sodium channels. In addition, important modulatory factors for ectopic discharges are purinergic and adrenergic components of the sympathetic nervous system. These findings suggest that manipulating sodium channels and/or adrenergic and purinergic receptors on axotomized DRG cells may give neuropathic pain sufferers some relief that is not available from present treatment regimens.
The effects of the perceived behavioral integrity of managers on employee attitudes: A meta-analysis

Perceived behavioral integrity involves the employee’s perception of the alignment of the manager’s words and deeds. This meta-analysis examined the relationship between perceived behavioral integrity of managers and the employee attitudes of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, satisfaction with the leader and affect toward the organization. Results indicate a strong positive relationship overall (average r = 0.48, p<0.01). With only 12 studies included, exploration of moderators was limited, but preliminary analysis suggested that the gender of the employees and the number of levels between the employee and the manager are potential moderators of the relationship. In the current sample of studies, country where the research was conducted did not seem to have any moderating effects. In addition to suggesting further investigation of potential moderators, we call for research that examines the relationship between behavioral integrity and outcomes that include individual behavior and organizational performance.
Sea urchin embryos exposed to thalidomide during early cleavage exhibit abnormal morphogenesis later in development.

BACKGROUND: Clinical use of thalidomide has increased drastically, pushing the questions concerning the teratogenic mechanisms of this drug back to the forefront. Progress in understanding the teratogenic mechanisms has been slow, with the lack of non-primate vertebrate animal models susceptible to the classic reduction deformities remaining a concern. Sea urchin embryos have been used as model organisms for developmental studies for the last century. Like vertebrates, they are deuterostomes and share similar developmental and signaling pathways suggesting they may be an effective system for thalidomide studies. Therefore, we tested sea urchin embryos to see if they were sensitive to the effects of thalidomide. METHODS: Sea urchin embryos were obtained using standard spawning and fertilization techniques. Thalidomide dissolved in DMSO was added to embryo cultures either at fertilization or during early cleavage. Samples of the embryos were evaluated during specific development stages. RESULTS:Lytechinus pictus embryos exposed to 400 µM thalidomide at fertilization or within a window during early cleavage (2–6 hours post-fertilization) exhibit significant levels of abnormal embryos (60–82%) at the pluteus stage, compared to controls levels (≤10%). Strongylocentrotus purpuratus embryos exposed at initial fertilization or during early cleavage (2–6 hours post-fertilization) exhibit similar responses with significant abnormal levels ranging from (55–70%) at pluteus stage. CONCLUSIONS: Both species of sea urchin tested were susceptible to thalidomide-induced teratogenesis during cleavage (4–16 cell stages). This response during cleavage stages warrants further study and indicates that sea urchin embryos may prove to be a useful tool for studying thalidomide effects early in development. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 86:496–505, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Some aspects of methionine metabolism by Trypanosoma equiperdum, in vitro.

Abstract Homogenates of Trypanosoma equiperdum contained approximately 2.3 g methionine per 100 g crude protein, as determined by two independent methods. Radioactivity derived from both l -methionine-14CH3 and d,l -methionine-14COOH was recovered in the acid-soluble, lipid, nucleic acid, and protein fractions of trypanosomes after their incubation in the presence of these labeled substrates. Methionine served as the source of methyl groups for the biosynthesis of choline, and possibly also for methylated purine and pyrimidine bases present in RNA and DNA. Most of the radioactivity derived from l -ethionine-ethyl-1-14C was recovered in the acid-soluble fraction of T. equiperdum incubated in the presence of this labeled substrate, but small amounts were also detected in the protein and nucleic acid fractions. l -Ethionine depressed the uptake of methionine by the trypanosomes to a greater extent than did the d -isomer.
Induced maturation and development of pinfish eggs

Abstract Pelagic eggs of pinfish ( Lagodon rhomboides ), a common marine teleost found along the Atlantic coast of the southeastern United States, were induced to mature with mammalian gonadotropins and steroid hormones. The eggs were artificially fertilized and subsequent development of the eggs and yolk-sac larvae appeared normal. Yolk-sac larvae at 18°C utilized 50% of the yolk stores in 15 h, and of the oil droplet in 17.4 h.
Emulsion and bubble-chamber statistics for the determination of track density

The likelihood function is given as a function of the coefficient of the exponent. From this function the exponential coefficient is calculated and the statistical accuracy determined. It is also shown how, with a given amount of experimental data, the maximum statistical accuracy is achieved in the determination of the track density.
An evaluation of the economic effects of higher energy prices in Mexico

Abstract The analysis of this study examines the impact of an increase in the prices of gasoline and electricity on the Mexican economy. The analytical approach used consists of a general equilibrium model composed of 13 producing sectors, 14 consuming sectors, 4 household categories classified by income and one government. The effects of the recently implemented increase in the price of gasoline and electricity of 26.2% on prices and quantities are examined. The results are revealing. For example, the consequences of an increase in the prices of gasoline and electricity would be a decrease in output by all producing sectors of about 0.31%, a fall in the consumption of goods and services by about 0.56%, a reduction in total utility by 1.29% and higher revenue for the government of 0.31%. When subjected to a sensitivity analysis, the results are reasonably robust with regard to the assumption of the values of the substitution elasticities.
Environmentally-defined enhancer populations regulate diversity of tissue-resident macrophages

Macrophages represent a class of cells specialized for phagocytosis that occurs in multiple, phenotypically distinct populations throughout the body. Two studies published in Cell demonstrate that these phenotypic differences reflect drastic differences in the populations of enhancers that regulate transcription, and that this epigenomic diversity is, in fact, highly plastic and sensitive to environmental cues.
Treatment Options for Transformed Lymphoma: Incorporating Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in a Multimodality Approach

Transformed non-Hodgkin lymphoma (TL) arising from follicular lymphoma carries a poor prognosis, and the median survival time after transformation is approximately 10 to 12 months. Standard chemotherapy and radioimmunotherapy have offered promising responses; however, the duration of response does not appear to last long. Several studies evaluating the role of autologous stem cell transplantation (auto-SCT) as a salvage regimen have been reported, and a subset of patients benefit from this modality of treatment. With an improvement in supportive care, outcome after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) has been improved significantly over past decades; however, very limited data are available for TL. In the era of emerging novel therapies, the actual timing, optimal conditioning regimens, and long-term impact of the type of stem cell transplantation (auto-SCT vs allo-SCT) is unclear. This review addresses the approaches to the management of patients with TL.
Vibration–Rotation Bands of Deuterium Cyanide and Hydrogen Cyanide*

Six vibration–rotation bands of DCN between 2 and 6 μ have been analyzed. All the rotational constants have been obtained through the terms quadratic in vibrational quantum numbers. Two quadratic and seven cubic vibrational anharmonic constants have been obtained explicitly. Seven combinations of quadratic and cubic vibrational constants have also been obtained. Data are given on the analysis of the two parallel fundamental bands of D13CN, as well as the ν3 bands of DC15N, HI3CN, and HC15N. Δ–Δ transitions of both DCN and HCN in the ν3 fundamental regions have been analyzed. The splitting of the Δ levels was clearly observed for the first time and is in agreement with the l-type resonance calculations. The line structure of the Q branches of both Π–Π and Δ–Δ “hot bands” has also been resolved. By means of the Ritz principle the levels 2ν20, 2ν22, and ν21 of DCN and 2ν22 of HCN have been determined.
A simple model for estimating the transmittance of direct solar radiation through clear atmospheres

Abstract The clear-day all-wavelength transmittance τ of solar radiation directly through the 1962 standard atmosphere to a surface at altitude A is found to fit a simple mixed-gray-gas model (1 black, 1 gray, 1 clear) with a maximum error of 0.4 per cent. The relation is τ= a o +a 1 e k/cos z where z is the zenith angle of the sun. The constant a0, a1 and k are functions only of altitude and of haze model (visibility range). Allowance is made for the effect of four climate types (tropical, midlatitude summer and winter, and subarctic summer) by modifying the 3 constants by ratios which depend on climate type only (not on altitude or haze model) and which lie between 0.92 and 1.04. This simple model should be capable of being combined with sunshine or cloud records, plus generalizations covering diffuse radiation, to yield predictions of insolation for use in design optimizations.
Nalbuphine and droperidol in combination for sedation and prevention of nausea and vomiting during intra-carotid BCNU infusion.

A therapeutic regimen is described for sedative, analgesic, and anti-emetic effect in patients receiving intraarterial carmustine (BCNU) for malignant gliomas. This regimen consists of nalbuphine, 30 mg, i.v., and droperidol, 2.5 mg, i.v., given immediately prior to intra-carotid BCNU infusion. Droperidol, 2.5 mg, i.v., is then administered on four hour intervals for sixteen hours post-procedure. This combination provided excellent effect in nine patients treated for twelve intra-carotid infusions. None of the nine patients experienced vomiting, one experienced mild nausea several hours post-infusion, and non complained of severe pain or discomfort. Thirteen additional patients received diazepam, 10 mg, P.O., prior to the intra-carotid BCNU infusion, with fentanyl, 100 mcg, i.v., and prochlorperazine, 10 mg, i.m. at the onset of infusion. All thirteen patients suffered from severe nausea, vomiting, and orbital pain. The nalbuphine/droperidol combination is thought to provide a superior alternative to the traditional narcotic/pheonothiazine/benzodiazepine combination for carotid BCNU infusion. This combination has theoretical advantages for the patient with intracranial mass lesions by providing analgesia and sedation with minimal potential for respiratory depression and carbon dioxide retention.
Seasonal changes of gonadotropin-releasing hormone in the Atlantic hagfish Myxine glutinosa

Abstract To investigate seasonal reproduction in Myxine glutinosa , we measured total brain gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and determined gonadal stages of hagfish collected from the Gulf of Maine once a month for 12 months. Thirty hagfish from each of three different size classes of small (20–35 cm), medium (35–45 cm), and large (50–60+ cm) were sampled for brains and gonads. In the medium and large class hagfish there was an increase in GnRH concentrations during April and May that correlated with male and female gonadal maturity. Also in these size classes of female hagfish, there was a similar rise in GnRH in November and then again in January that preceded the highest incidence of large eggs (stage 7). The elevated GnRH may be influencing the onset of ovarian recrudescence which has been shown in other vertebrates. These data suggest an association of the concentration of brain GnRH with gonadal maturity and provide supportive evidence of a possible seasonal reproductive cycle in M. glutinosa shown in recent studies of [J. Exp. Zool. 301A (2004) 352], correlating steroid production with gonadal maturation.
Ascension Submarine Canyon, California - Evolution of a multi-head canyon system along a strike-slip continental margin

Abstract Ascension Submarine Canyon, which lies along the strike-slip (transform) dominated continental margin of central California, consists of two discrete northwestern heads and six less well defined southeastern heads. These eight heads coalesce to form a single submarine canyon near the 2700 m isobath. Detailed seismic stratigraphic data correlated with 19 rock dredge hauls from the walls of the canyon system, suggest that at least one of the two northwestern heads was initially eroded during a Pliocene lowstand of sea level ∼3.8 m.y. B.P. Paleogeographic reconstructions indicate that at this time, northwestern Ascension Canyon formed the distal channel of nearby Monterey Canyon and has subsequently been offset by right-lateral, strike-slip faulting along the San Gregorio fault zone. Some of the six southwestern heads of Ascension Canyon may also have been initially eroded as the distal portions of Monterey Canyon during late Pliocene-early Pleistocene sea-level lowstands (∼2.8 and 1.75 m.y. B.P.) and subsequently truncated and offset to the northwest. There have also been a minimum of two canyon-cutting episodes within the past 750,000 years, after the entire Ascension Canyon system migrated to the northwest past Monterey Canyon. We attribute these late Pleistocene erosional events to relative lowstands of sea level 750,000 and 18,000 yrs B.P. The late Pleistocene and Holocene evolution of the six southeastern heads also appears to have been controlled by structural uplift of the Ascension-Monterey basement high at the southeastern terminus of the Outer Santa Cruz Basin. We believe that uplift of this basement high sufficiently oversteepened submarine slopes to induce gravitational instability and generate mass movements that resulted in the erosion of the canyon heads. Most significantly, though, our results and interpretations support previous proposals that submarine canyons along strike-slip continental margins can originate by tectonic trunction and lateral offset.
Antipyrine disposition in milk and saliva of lactating women

Widely used to study hepatic drug metabolism, antipyrine rapidly distributes in total body water. Antipyrine distribution was studied in seven lactating women. Duration of lactation ranged from 2 to 19 mo. In all subjects the drug was rapidly absorbed; in five women peak concentrations were attained in milk and saliva by 1 hr and in the other two women by 3 hr (first point at which collections were made). In two women in whom antipyrine was measured at 10-min intervals during the first hour, peak concentrations in both milk and saliva were attained by 10 min after antipyrine. The time course for antipyrine disappearance from milk paralleled that from saliva for each subject. Antipyrine half-life (t½) varied from 5.6 to 20.3 hr for saliva (x ± SD = 11.5 ± 4.8) and from 5.7 to 21.7 hr for milk (x ± SD = 11.6 ± 5.4). In the two women with the shortest salivary antipyrine t½ (5.6 and 7.5 hr), antipyrine was readministered many months later, after they had stopped lactating. The salivary antipyrine t½ rose from 5.6 to 13.3 hr in one subject and from 7.5 to 14.6 hr in the other. The corresponding decrease in antipyrine clearance was 0.93 to 0.55 and 1.41 to 0.60 ml/min/kg. This observation suggests that in some subjects lactation may influence drug metabolism. The amount of antipyrine available to each nursing infant was estimated by assuming that the infant nursed 3 ounces every 4 hr for 24 hr after maternal antipyrine administration. The amount of antipyrine available to the nursing infant was calculated to range from 3.0 to 11.1 mg (x ± SD — 6.4 ± 2.9 mg) or from 0.25% to 1.07% (x ± SD = 0.59 ± 0.29%) of the maternal dose. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1982) 31, 38–44; doi:10.1038/clpt.1982.6
Indirect evidence of wind erosion trends on the Southern High Plains of North America

Abstract Detecting and quantifying changing regional patterns of wind erosion activity is complicated by a lack of long-term records of direct wind erosion measurements. Here, we attempt to piece together indirect evidence of changing wind erosion activity on the Southern High Plains. Sources of indirect evidence include visibility-based observations of blowing dust as well as past measurements of ambient particulate matter concentration. Both the visibility record and particulate matter record suggest independently that there have been significant declines in blowing dust during the last 40 years. There are three key factors that may have contributed to the observed reduction of blowing dust—natural climatic variations, changing land use, and improved agricultural practices. Historical climatic records suggest that there have been no appreciable climate shifts that could account for the observed decline in blowing dust. Although it is not possible to rule out land use as a factor in the reduction of blowing dust, one can point to periods when land use changed very little while annual dust levels decreased significantly. Overall, the relatively minor changes in land use, including the removal of land from production, cannot fully account for the magnitude of the observed reduction of ambient dust levels on the Southern High Plains. We are left to conclude that the adoption of improved agricultural practices has played a crucial role in reducing wind erosion activity and dust emissions on the Southern High Plains.
Pattern of stylet penetration activity by Homalodisca vitripennis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) adults in relation to environmental temperature and light conditions.

Effects of ambient spring air temperature and light intensity on stylet penetration activities of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar), were studied under field conditions by using an electrical penetration graph. Electrical penetration graph waveforms representing salivary sheath formation and searching (pathway phase),xylem contact (X waves), and ingestion of xylem fluid (waveform C) were analyzed. Previous research supported the concept that acquisition of Xylella fastidiosa, the Pierce's disease bacterium, occurs during ingestion, whereas inoculation occurs during xylem contact periods (X waves). Diel patterns of H. vitripennis stylet activity showed that, regardless of light condition, xylem ingestion occurred for the longest duration when temperature remained above the feeding threshold (10°C), and only occurred at temperatures below the threshold when ingestion was continued from a preceding, warmer time. Regression analysis indicated that mean waveform durations per insect (WDI) for combined stylet activities (pathway and ingestion) as well as X wave frequencies were significantly influenced by temperature, but there was no significant impact of light intensity or interaction between temperature and light intensity. The relationship between temperature and stylet activities in terms of WDI and X wave frequency was described using linear and nonlinear models. Validation of the nonlinear models indicated that they well predicted the WDIs for both ingestion and combined stylet activities, using temperature only as a single input. Overall, findings clearly demonstrate that temperature is an important factor that influences the H. vitripennis feeding behaviors responsible for transmission (acquisition and inoculation) of the Pierce's disease bacterium, with implications for vector ecology and management, as well as disease epidemiology.
Physiologic Effects of Surface Transfers on Low Birthweight Infants 1196

Low birthweight infants (LBW) are frequently moved between radiant warmers and incubators to facilitate care. The effects of these transfers, however, are unclear. It was hypothesized that LBW infants ( .004. Temperatures did not return to baseline 1 hour following transfer. Post hoc examination revealed significant differences between the baseline temperature with the temperature immediately following transfer (t=2.60, >.019); baseline temperature with temperature 1 hour after the transfer (t=2.61, p>.018). No other significant differences were found over time. Videotapes were reviewed to determine number of personnel needed for transfers, transfer time and number of times the incubator portholes were opened over a 24 hour period. Average time to complete a bed surface transfer was 20 minutes; average time weight was 3.5 minutes. Approximately 2 nurses were needed for bed surface transfers; 1 for weighing. The incubator portholes were opened 14-36 times per 24-hour period; open for 10 seconds to 12 minutes. Conclusions: Infants experience significant fluctuations in temperature during bed surface transfers and do not recover 1 hour following the transfer. This in addition to frequent care interruptions may contribute to infant instability. Using a combination of incubators and radiant warmers necessitates infant transfers. Ideally, a neonatal bed that contains the appropriate combination of incubator and radiant warmer utilities would eliminate the need for transferring infants to facilitate care. The provision of excellent thermal support coupled with a bed that shields the infant from harmful environmental sound and light has the potential for improving infant stability and growth.
An Expected Utility Approach to Influence Diagnostics

Abstract We consider the problem of defining the influence of a set of observations in a parametric modeling framework. An expected utility approach, motivated by the amount of information to be gained from an experiment, is developed with regard to the parameter of interest. In some linear model cases simple closed-form expressions for our criterion may be found. In more complicated settings an adaptive Monte Carlo integration technique known as the Gibbs sampler provides a natural framework for evaluating the influence diagnostic. We demonstrate that the influence diagnostic obtained performs well in flagging aberrant subsets of the data, exemplified in the cases of a two-stage linear model, a hierarchical model, and a nonlinear Michaelis-Menten model.
Prospects for peptidomimetic drug design

Summary Peptidomimetic drug design offers many exciting opportunities and challenges for the basic research scientist interested in understanding the chemical and physical principles critical for drug action, and for medicinal chemists, biochemists, molecular biologists and others to apply these principles to the next generation of drugs. Considerable success already has been achieved, and it is likely that continued research in peptide and protein structural chemistry, coupled with the development of novel scaffolds and templates that can predictably mimic the stereoelectronic, stereo-structural and dynamic properties of peptides and proteins, will provide the tools for successful de novo peptidomimetic design.
Energy efficient algorithms for Electric Vehicle charging with intermittent renewable energy sources

Renewable energy and Electric Vehicles (EV) show potential to be promising solutions for energy cost saving and emission reduction. However, the integration of renewable energy generation into the electric grid can be difficult, because of the source intermittency and inconsistency with energy usage. In this paper, we study the problem of allocating energy from renewable sources to EVs in an energy efficient manner. We assume that the renewable energy supply is time variant and possibly unpredictable. EVs' charging requests should be satisfied within a specified time frame, which may incur a cost of drawing extra energy (possibly non-renewable energy) if the renewable energy supply is not sufficent to meet the deadlines and may also reduce energy efficiency. We formulate a stochastic optimization problem based on queueing model to minimize the time average cost of using other energy sources (and hence make most usage of the renewable energy source). The proposed approach fully considers the individual charging rate limit and deadline of each EV. The Lyapunov optimization technique is used to solve the problem. The developed dynamic control algorithm does not require knowledge of the statistics of the time-varying renewable energy generation, EV charging demand process, or extra energy pricing.