cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ionic strength-induced formation of smectite quasicrystals enhances nitroaromatic compound sorption.

ionicstrengths of 0.015 and 0.15 M remained essentially the same.The“salting-out”effectonthedecreaseof1,3-dinitrobenzeneaqueous solubility within this ionic strength range was<1.5% relative to the solubility in pure water. This decreaseof solubility is insufficient to account for the observedincrease of sorption by K-smectite with increasing KCl ionicstrength. X-ray diffraction patterns and light absorbanceof K-clay suspensions indicated the aggregation ofclay particles and the formation of quasicrystal structuresas KCl ionic strength increased. Sorption enhancementis attributed to the formation of better-ordered K-clayquasicrystals with reduced interlayer distances rather thanto the salting-out effect. Dehydration of 1,3-dinitrobenzeneis apparently a significant driving force for sorption,and we show for the first time that sorption of small, planar,neutral organic molecules, namely, 1,3-dinitrobenzene,causes previously expanded clay interlayers to dehydrateand collapse in aqueous suspension.
Hyaluronan Binding and Degradation byStreptococcus agalactiae Hyaluronate Lyase

Abstract Streptococcus agalactiae hyaluronate lyase is a virulence factor that helps this pathogen to break through the biophysical barrier of the host tissues by the enzymatic degradation of hyaluronan and certain chondroitin sulfates at β-1,4 glycosidic linkages. Crystal structures of the native enzyme and the enzyme-product complex were determined at 2.1- and 2.2-A resolutions, respectively. An elongated cleft transversing the middle of the molecule has been identified as the substrate-binding place. Two product molecules of hyaluronan degradation were observed bound to the cleft. The enzyme catalytic site was identified to comprise three residues: His479, Tyr488, and Asn429. The highly positively charged cleft facilitates the binding of the negatively charged polymeric substrate chain. The matching between the aromatic patch of the enzyme and the hydrophobic patch of the substrate chain anchors the substrate chain into degradation position. A pair of proton exchanges between the enzyme and the substrate results in the cleavage of the β-1,4 glycosidic linkage of the substrate chain and the unsaturation of the product. Phe423 likely determines the size of the product at the product release side of the catalytic region. Hyaluronan chain is processively degraded from the reducing end toward the nonreducing end. The unsulfated or 6-sulfated regions of chondroitin sulfate can also be degraded in the same manner as hyaluronan.
Autonomy-related behaviors of patient companions and their effect on decision-making activity in geriatric primary care visits.

The objective of this study, undertaken in the USA, was to investigate the consequences of autonomy-related companion behaviors on patient decision-making activity during geriatric primary care visits. Videotapes were analyzed to characterize patient and companion decision-making activity and related companion behaviors. These behaviors were coded throughout the visit using an autonomy-based framework that included both autonomy enhancing (i.e. facilitating patient understanding, patient involvement, and doctor understanding) and detracting behaviors, (i.e. controlling the patient and building alliances with the physician). Patients (N=93) in this cross-sectional sample range in age from 65 to 95 years and are mostly white (n=73, 79%) and female (n=67, 72%). Companions are spouses (n=42, 46%), adult children (n=33, 36%), or other relatives and friends (n=15, 16%) of patients. Companions are active participants in medical visits and engage in more autonomy enhancing than detracting behaviors. Companions of sicker (compared with less sick) patients were more likely to facilitate patient understanding, p<.05; doctor understanding, p<.01; and patient involvement, p=.06, in care. Patients whose companions facilitated their involvement in the medical visit by asking the patient questions, prompting the patient to talk, and asking for the patient's opinion were more than four times as likely to be active in decision-making as patients whose companions did not assist in this manner (unadjusted OR 3.5, CI 1.4-8.7, p<.01; adjusted OR 4.5, CI 1.6-12.4, p<.01). Companions can play an important role in the visits of geriatric patients by facilitating communication throughout the visit as well as patient activity in decision-making.
Facile syntheses of 4-(trifluoromethyl)-L-spinacine and 4-(trifluoromethyl) spinaceamine

Abstract Reaction of L-histidine with trifluoroacetaldehyde ethyl hemiacetal (TFAE) in boiling water provides 4-(trifluoromethyl)-L-spinacine, 4-(trifluoromethyl)-L-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine-6-carboxylic acid, in near quantitative yield. The product contains two diastereoisomers in the ratio 68 : 32. The isomers were separated (silica gel) as their protected derivatives, 5-N-(trifluoroacetyl)-4-(trifluoromethyl)-L-spinacine methyl esters, and were regenerated by acid hydrolysis. The analogous reaction with histamine provides 4-(trifluoromethyl)spinaceamine in 91% yield.
Generalization of the Zernike Polynomials to a Discretely Sampled Cartesian Grid: Application to Ophthalmic Surfaces

Orthogonal polynomials on a discretely sampled unit circle are developed and used to represent complex surface shapes found in ophthalmic optics. These polynomials are a generalization of the Zernike polynomials on the continuous unit circle.
Media Review: Negotiating Ethical Practice in Adult Education

(2010). Media Review: Negotiating Ethical Practice in Adult Education. Journal of Student Affairs Research and Practice: Vol. 47, No. 3, pp. 397-399.
Periodic states in a pressurized flow showing a phase transition

The scope for long-term operation in periodic mode is examined for a pipeline carrying a liquid that can freeze.
Improved survival is associated with treatment at high‐volume teaching facilities for patients with advanced stage laryngeal cancer

BACKGROUND: Because of the multidisciplinary nature of treatment for advanced laryngeal cancer, the authors hypothesized that treatment at high-volume teaching/research facilities is associated with improved survival. METHODS: After exclusions, 19,326 patients who were diagnosed with advanced laryngeal cancer (stage III and IV) between 1996 and 2002 and who received treatment (chemoradiotherapy [CRT], total laryngectomy [TL], or radiotherapy [RT]) were analyzed from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Facilities were classified into 6 groups (low-volume and high-volume teaching/research facilities, low-volume and high-volume community cancer centers, and low-volume and high-volume community facilities). Multivariate proportional hazards regression modeling was used to determine 90-day, 365-day, and 4-year hazard ratio (HR) estimates. RESULTS: Treatment included TL (37.6%), CRT (29.4%), and RT alone (33%). Overall, 36.2% of patients were treated at high-volume teaching/research centers (average, 17.1 cases per year). Among all patients, 20% died within the first year. In multivariate models that were controlled for covariates, 90-day, 365-day, and 4 year HR estimates for death were lowest for high-volume teaching/research centers. CONCLUSIONS: Receiving treatment at high-volume teaching/research facilities was associated with improved survival. Undergoing total laryngectomy also was associated with improved survival. The current results suggested that the regionalization of care for patients with advanced-stage laryngeal cancer has occurred, because most patients were treated either at high-volume teaching/research facilities or at high-volume community cancer centers. Future studies should investigate the factors associated with better survival at high-volume teaching/research facilities, such as quality of care, processes of care, and referral patterns. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
The role of neutron activation analysis in VLSI manufacturing and development

Very large scale integrated (VLSI) semiconductor manufacturing and development require trace analyses for materials inspections, process characterization, contamination control, and failure analysis. Improvement in alternate analytical techniques has reduced the relative importance of neutron activation analysis (NAA) in these activities, but, for certain types of problems, NAA can still play a significant role.
Rabbit RAG-2 UTRs: characterization of an unusually large 3′ untranslated region

We previously characterized the rabbit recombination activating gene-2 (RAG-2) coding region and a portion of the cDNA. Rabbit RAG-2 mRNA, however, was shown to be approximately twice as large as the predominant form expressed in other vertebrate species, suggesting that it contained additional coding and/or untranslated regions (UTR). In this report, we map and sequence the complete 5′ and 3′ UTRs of the rabbit RAG-2 transcript and identify and sequence the genomic regions from which they are transcribed. The data show that, with the exception of a 300 nucleotide 5′ UTR, almost all of the additional sequence belongs to the 3′ UTR and that the 3′ UTR sequence is transcribed from a single large exon that encodes most of the coding region and all of the 3′ UTR. The 3′ UTR contains four poly A signal sites, the last of which is closely followed by a GU-rich region. The rabbit 3′ UTR has a high level of identity with the homologous region downstream of the human RAG-2 gene but not with the mouse RAG-2 gene. The region of identity extends several hundred nucleotides beyond the transcribed region and terminates in a series of dinucleotide (TG) repeats. The data are discussed in terms of RAG gene and 3′ UTR function, regulation, and evolution.
Hard decision error correcting scheme based on LDPC codes for long-haul optical transmission

In this paper an error correcting scheme for long-haul optical transmission systems based on the maximum likelihood sequence detection-Viterbi algorithm and a hard decision "Gallager B" decoding algorithm for LDPC codes is proposed. Numerical results for various LDPC codes are presented and it is shown that the proposed method provides significant coding gain with respect to the uncoded system and Viterbi equalizer only.
Bombesin-like immunoreactivity in the central nervous system of capsaicin-treated rats: a radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemical study.

Abstract The neuroanatomical distribution of bombesin-like immunoreactivity (BLI) in the rat central nervous system was investigated using radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemistry. Whereas cross-reactivity of the bombesin antiserum with substance P was problematic in the immunohistochemical experiments, no significant cross-reactivity with substance P was apparent in the radioimmunoassay. Results from the radioimmunoassay studies reveal particularly high concentrations of BLI in the hypothalamus, thalamus, medulla and spinal cord. Adult rats treated neonatally with capsaicin displayed significant depeltions of somatostatin-like and substance P-like immunoreactivity and a small, statistically significant, reduction of BLI in the cervical spinal cord. Capsaicin treatment significantly reduced substance P-like immunoreactivity, but not somatostatin-like immunoreactivity, in the medulla and resulted in a small BLI depletion of borderline statistical significance in this brain region. Neonatally administered capsaicin treatment had no effect on the thalamic concentration of any of theses three neuropeptides and neurotensin-like immunoreactivity was unchanged in all brain regions studied. These results suggest that the source of some of the BLI found in the spinal cord may be capsaicin-sensitive dorsal root ganglion cells.
Synthesis and evaluation of oxodioxolenylmethyl carbamate prodrugs of pseudomycins.

With the aim of increasing therapeutic indexes of novel cyclic depsinonapeptide pseudomycins, we synthesized and evaluated a series of mono-, di-, and trioxodioxolenylmethyl carbamate prodrugs (2 and 4) of pseudomycin B 1 and pseudomycin C' 3. It is rather encouraging to note that several members of the newly synthesized prodrugs described herein (e.g., 2a, 2e, and 4e) exhibited comparable in vivo efficacy to that achieved by the parent compounds, yet free of tail vein irritation and histamine induced toxicity in vivo.
Recombinant Factor VII Activated and Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Use at a Tertiary Academic Medical Center

To describe the use of recombinant Factor VII activated (rFVIIa) and three factor prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC3) in the absence of published guidelines, we conducted a single center, retrospective, observational study to evaluate the appropriate of use of rFVIIa and PCC3 therapy based on institution-specific guidelines, which were based on limited published data. Six patients received rFVIIa and 32 received PCC3 during the analysis period. rFVIIa and PCC3 were utilized appropriately in 100 and 91 % of cases, respectively. rFVIIa indications included surgical bleeding (50 %), factor deficiency (33 %), and intracranial hemorrhage (17 %). PCC3 indications included warfarin-related intracranial hemorrhage (47 %), non-warfarin-related intracranial hemorrhage (16 %), surgical bleeding (23 %), trauma (7 %), and other (7 %). PCC3 use was more common than rFVIIa use and was given with FFP and vitamin K for warfarin-related bleeding. The use of clotting factors for life-threatening hemorrhage should be reserved for institution-approved indications based on available literature and expert opinion.
The injection model-a structure-oriented model for merged transistor logic (MTL)

The merged transistor device is represented by assigning separate diodes to the various electron and hole injections along the active p-n junction. Where collection takes place, current sources are introduced. Measurement procedures are described that allow a quantitative separation of the various injections, and hence the determination of the model parameters. Results of such measurements are given. Device terminal parameters, like current gains and storage time constants, can be predicted from the measurements for devices of arbitrary horizontal geometry, so that the injection model can serve as a device optimization tool. As a circuit analysis model it allows representation of the internal device series resistances which would not be possible with an Ebers-Moll model. The injection model is significant beyond the merged transistor logic (MTL) aspects as it renders a better insight into bipolar devices, particularly into lateral p-n-p and saturated n-p-n transistors.
Optimal switching between collective motion states for two agents

Abstract We show that steering control can be chosen to give bistability between parallel and anti-parallel collective motion states for a continuous-time kinetic model of two agents moving in the plane with unit speed. Variational methods are used to determine the optimal input to the steering control of one of the agents which leads to switching between these collective states. For any given time interval of switching, such an optimal input is shown to exist and to be unique. The properties of optimal inputs are interpreted by considering the phase space geometry of the Euler–Lagrange equations associated with the optimization.
SU-DD-A4-01: Multi-Day Multi-Modality Image Co-Registration

Purpose: To develop a methodology for multi‐day co‐registration of multi‐modality images taken throughout the course of radiotherapy, for the assessment of tumor response to treatment. Method and Materials:CT and PETimagedata sets of canines with various tumors were taken on a PET/CT scanner and were automatically co‐registered to each other by the scannersoftware. Using a commercial software package, ROI segmentation was performed on the CT data to define the tumor boundaries. Each PET data set was then masked by the ROI of its aligned CTimage and then rigidly co‐registered with the masked PET data from other days. To align more specific uptake regions within the tumor,image warping was performed via landmarks placed on the co‐registered multi‐day PET data. Results: We found that ROIs can be roughly aligned by rigid registration of the outer tumor region as defined by the segmentation of CT data. Histogram correlation plots, aided by visual assessment, illustrated that normalized mutual information and Euclidean distance were the best‐suited criteria for rigid registration, and that increased accuracy in co‐registration was gained from image warping via landmarks placed on specific structures within the day‐to‐day rigidly co‐registered PET data. A review of warping techniques on the co‐registered PET data and generated data phantoms demonstrated that thin‐plate spline warping provided the most complete warping of landmarked structures, while flow warping was not as aggressive with non‐landmarked structures. Conclusion: Using this methodology of rigid registration of tumor boundaries defined from CT data, followed by inner feature warping of PET data proves to be an accurate and usable way to perform multi‐day multi‐modality image co‐registration. Further investigations include additional contouring of segmented regions, adding scaling parameters to the initial registrations, and refining landmark placement and warping techniques.
Gravity wave shoaling and transformation in shallow water

Abstract Wave amplitude and frequency transformation is investigated in the shoaling process for wave propagating into shallow water through transitions of varying geometry. A review of pertinent theories and work is presented. On the basis of linearized small amplitude shallow wave theory, Green's Law theoretical predictions compared with experimental findings shows fair agreement. The linearized theory of intermediate and deep water boundary value problem for wave propagating into shallow water without reflection or friction loss, is compared also with experimental results. A general discussion of the aspects of the problem for engineering design is given.
Sea beam bathymetry of the Manteo 467 lease block off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

Abstract Contenental slope morphology of a small area off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, is illustrated on the basis of detailed Sea Beam bathymetry. The data reveal the complexity of the seafloor in this region, with many gullies marking the upper continental slope, coalescing downslope into larger submarine canyons. Submarine canyon morphology changes from “V” shaped valleys with sharp ridge crests above ∼1200m water depth, to “U” shaped valleys with rounded ridge crests below ∼1200m water depth.
TU-A-230A-01: Monte Carlo II: MC for Source and Machine Characterization

Monte Carlo algorithms have the ability to accurately model dose distributions for arbitrarily complex treatment delivery scenarios and changing patient geometries. These properties make Monte Carlo ideal for clinical planning, or for benchmarking clinical planning systems. Building on the discussion of the role of Monte Carlo in treatment head simulation (from the first course), this second Monte Carlo course will focus on patient planning applications. The goal of the course is to familiarize clinical medical physicists with the use of Monte Carlo in treatment planning, including advanced treatment techniques such as IMRT and motion compensated 4D treatment, and to discuss how Monte Carlo‐based planning differs from planning with conventional algorithms. We will demonstrate the various approaches used in modeling beam modifying devices, such as the multi‐leaf collimator(MLC), including methods to effectively model the dosimetric consequences of the detailed the MLC geometry. We will review methods used to reduce Monte Carlo‐based clinical dose calculation time, such as variance reduction techniques, and discuss how factors specific to the MC method, such as statistical uncertainties, impact dose distributions and clinical decision making. We will illustrate how a properly benchmarked Monte Carlo algorithm can play a unique role in the modeling of complex delivery procedures, such as IMRT and how Monte Carlo fluence prediction can be combined with analytic dose algorithms to estimate patient dose. Finally, we will show how Monte Carlo can include organ motion in 4D dose calculations without an increase in computation time. In addition to illustrating the role of Monte Carlo in complex treatment planning, a focus of this course will also be to review some of the practical issues associated with the implementation, verification and clinical use of Monte Carlo‐based dose calculation algorithms. Educational Objectives: 1. To familiarize clinical physicists with some of the issues associated with implementation and experimental verification of Monte Carlo‐based dose algorithms in the clinical setting. 2. To understand the factors specific to Monte Carlo‐based dose algorithms, such variance reduction techniques and statistical uncertainties. 3. To become familiar with the various approaches used in Monte Carlo‐based modeling of the MLC and the tradeoffs associated with these methods. 4. To recognize the potential clinical outcome benefits of Monte Carlo‐based dose distributions. 5. To understand the use, benefits and limitations of the Monte Carlo method for IMRT optimization and QA. 6. To become familiar with the role of the Monte Carlo method in motion compensated (4D) treatment planning.
The Last Few Frames of the Voltage-Gating Movie☆

In the voltage sensor domain (VSD) of a voltage-gated channel, electrical charge is driven from the intracellular to the extracellular surface of a membrane as conformational changes occur and the channel gates are opened. This charge displacement, which in voltage-gated potassium channels occurs in ∼1 ms, is measured as a “gating current.”
The Relationships between Symmetry and Attractiveness and Mating Relevant Decisions and Behavior: A Review

Evolutionary theory based research shows that attractiveness is based on biological correlates that index appropriate estrogen and testosterone levels. Symmetry affects or plays a role in the perception of many of these correlates of attractiveness. Additionally, since attractiveness affects infidelity perception and reactions, sexual satisfaction, and personality perception, symmetry also affects these areas. This paper reviews the literature on symmetry showing how symmetry affects: the correlates of attractiveness, sexual satisfaction, personality, and infidelity perceptions and reactions.
Physiological profile of national-class national collegiate athletic association fencers

Selected physiological characteristics of seven national-class fencers (1983 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I champions) were studied and the results compared with those for normal persons and athletes of similar age. Evaluation included maximal oxygen uptake during arm and leg ergometry, serum lipids, body composition, and standard spirometry. Maximal oxygen uptake during arm work (34.2 mL×kg -1 ×min -1 ) was 68% of that observed during leg work (50.2 mL×kg -1 ×min -1 ). Mean serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, and high-density—lipoprotein cholesterol levels were 68.5, 187, and 54.5 mg/dL, respectively. Hydrostatically determined percent body fat averaged 12.2%. Results of pulmonary function studies were normal. The aerobic capacity of National Collegiate Athletic Association fencers is only slightly higher than active men of comparable age, and substantially lower than world-class endurance athletes. These data suggest that success in fencing may depend more on technique, speed, and agility as opposed to a high aerobic capacity and low percent body fatness. ( JAMA 1984;252:500-503)
MicroRNAs are universal regulators of differentiation, activation, and polarization of microglia and macrophages in normal and diseased CNS

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small (∼22 nucleotides) noncoding RNAs involved in the regulation of gene expression at the post-translational level. It is estimated that 30-90% of human genes are regulated by miRNAs, which makes these molecules of great importance for cell growth, activation, and differentiation. Microglia is CNS-resident cells of a myeloid lineage that play an important role in immune surveillance and are actively involved in many neurologic pathologies. Although the exact origin of microglia remains enigmatic, it is established that primitive macrophages from a yolk sac populate the brain and spinal cord in normal conditions throughout development. During various pathological events such as neuroinflammation, bone marrow derived myeloid cells also migrate into the CNS. Within the CNS, both primitive macrophages from the yolk sac and bone marrow derived myeloid cells acquire a specific phenotype upon interaction with other cell types within the CNS microenvironment. The factors that drive differentiation of progenitors into microglia and control the state of activation of microglia and bone marrow-derived myeloid cells within the CNS are not well understood. In this review we will summarize the role of miRNAs during activation and differentiation of myeloid cells. The role of miR-124 in the adaptation of microglia and macrophages to the CNS microenvironment will be further discussed. We will also summarize the role of miRNAs as modulators of activation of microglia and microphages. Finally, we will describe the role of miR-155 and miR-124 in the polarization of macrophages towards classically and alternatively activated phenotypes.
Ear asymmetry for monaurally presented word lists in children and adults

Abstract In order to study ear asymmetry during monaural stimulation, 80 listeners were asked to recall the word which followed a probe word in 40, 10-word lists. Subjects were divided into four age groups: 7–9, 13–16, 25–30, and 60+ years. Probe words occured in early (position 2) or late (position 7) in each 10 word list. Superior recall accuracy was shown when words were presented to the right ear of 48 subjects. 12 subjects demonstrated superior left ear performance, and 20 subjects performed equally well in each ear. Subjects showing superior right ear performance also demonstrated superior overall performance. Older children and younger adults performed significantly better than younger children or older adults. The factor of subject sex was not significant. Ear asymmetry during monaural stimulation appeared to be related to competition between incoming and rehearsed stimuli during central memory processing.
Thigmomorphogenesis: The role of ethylene in the response of Pinus taeda and Abies fraseri to mechanical perturbation

Ethylene production was monitored for 48 h in two half-sibs of Pinus taeda L. grown in the greenhouse and given mechanical perturbation (MP) by flexing; and for 22 h in Abies fraseri (Pursh) Poir. grown in the field and exposed to wind-mediated MP. Both species produced a peak of ethylene 18 h after MP. Seedlings of P. taeda exposed to MP for the duration of the growing season (preconditioned) produced less ethylene compared to non-MP controls, with a peak production at 8 h. One half-sib which responded to MP by an increase in radial growth produced 16 times more ethylene than another half-sib which had no significant change in radial growth. Preconditioned A. fraseri produced no significant quantities of ethylene after MP. The production of wound ethylene appears to be different from MP-induced ethylene. When an ethylene-generating solution was applied to P. taeda seedlings, it mimicked many of the morphological and mechanical characteristics of MP seedlings. The putative role of ethylene in the thigmomorphogenetic response is addressed.
Analysis of feeding preference experiments

Published studies of consumer feeding preferences using foods that experience autogenic change in mass, numbers, area, etc., on the time scale of a feeding trial fail to employ appropriate statistical analyses to incorporate controls for those food changes occurring in the absence of the consumer. The studies that run controls typically use them to calculate a constant “correction factor”, which is subtracted prior to formal data analysis. This procedure constitutes a non-rigorous suppression of variance that overstates the statistical significance of observed differences. The appropriate statistical analysis for preference tests with two foods is usually a simple t-test performed on the between-food differences in loss of mass (or numbers, area, etc.) comparing the results of experimentals with consumers to controls without consumers. Application of this recommended test procedure to an actual data set illustrates how low replication in controls, which is typical of most studies of feeding preference, inhibits detection of an apparently large influence of previous mechanical damage (simulated grazing) in reducing the attractiveness of a brown alga to a sea urchin.
The γ class of carbonic anhydrases

Homologs of the γ class of carbonic anhydrases, one of five independently evolved classes, are found in the genomic sequences of diverse species from all three domains of life. The archetype (Cam) from the Archaea domain is a homotrimer of which the crystal structure reveals monomers with a distinctive left-handed parallel β-helix fold. Histidines from adjacent monomers ligate the three active site metals surrounded by residues in a hydrogen bond network essential for activity. Cam is most active with iron, the physiologically relevant metal. Although the active site residues bear little resemblance to the other classes, kinetic analyses indicate a two-step mechanism analogous to all carbonic anhydrases investigated. Phylogenetic analyses of Cam homologs derived from the databases show that Cam is representative of a minor subclass with the great majority belonging to a subclass (CamH) with significant differences in active site residues and apparent mechanism from Cam. A physiological function for any of the Cam and CamH homologs is unknown, although roles in transport of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate across membranes has been proposed.
Effect of increasing carbon chain length on organic acid transport by the choroid plexus: a potential factor in Reye's syndrome

Transport of the anionic herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid by choroid plexus is inhibited significantly by several short and medium chain acids. For both monocarboxylic and dicarboxylic homologs, inhibition clearly increases with chain length. It appears that organic acid compounds of longer chain length, higher brain uptake index, and highest inhibition of choroid plexus transport would be the ones producing the most significant increases in intracranial pressure in metabolic encephalopathy such as Reye's syndrome.
Ultrafast tabletop x-ray sources and their application to XAFS measurements of transition metal coordination complexes

We report on the first measurements of a XANES spectrum of solvated Fe(CO) 5 using an ultrafast laser driven plasma x-ray source operating at 2 kilohertz repetition rate. The measured spectrum is compared to theoretical XANES spectra based on DFT structure calculations of the solvated complex. The used x-radiation is generated by irradiating a solid metal target with ultrafast high-intensity laser pulses. The subsequently generated high-density plasma emits x-ray pulses with sub-picosecond temporal resolution and an x-ray spectrum extends to energies far higher than the desired spectral range. Since these spectral components potentially falsify the XANES measurements, they were suppressed by the x-ray optical setup.
Predictors of outcome in trauma during pregnancy: identification of patients who can be monitored for less than 6 hours.

Background: The first objective of this study was to identify risk factors in pregnant patients suffering blunt trauma predictive for uterine contractions, preterm labor, or fetal loss. The second objective was to identify patients who can safely undergo fetal monitoring for 6 hours or less after blunt trauma by selecting out those patients demonstrating the identified risk factors. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed from January 1, 1990, through December 31, 1998. Charts were reviewed for numerous possible risk factors for adverse outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed by using logistic regression. Results: A total of 271 pregnant patients admitted after blunt trauma were identified. Risk factors significantly predictive of fetal death included ejections, motorcycle and pedestrian collisions, maternal death, maternal tachycardia, abnormal fetal heart rate, lack of restraints, and Injury Severity Score > 9. Risk factors significantly predictive of contractions or preterm labor included gestational age >35 weeks, assaults, and pedestrian collisions. Conclusion: Pregnant patients who present after blunt trauma with any of the identified risk factors for contractions, preterm labor, or fetal loss should be monitored for at least 24 hours. Patients without these risk factors can safely be monitored for 6 hours after trauma before discharge.
Predicting multiple myeloma disease activity by analyzing natural calcium isotopic composition

Predicting multiple myeloma disease activity by analyzing natural calcium isotopic composition
Analysis of investments in technology development and resource conservation

Abstract A methodology is presented for the economic analysis of investments in research, technology development and water resources conservation. The role of technology development and resource conservation is directly related to the availability of resources. Mathematically speaking, we are dealing with a problem in which part of the control variables are investments on technologies related to the manufacturing of diverse products. The methodology enables the decision maker to distribute efficiently restricted amounts of capital and resources to the different manufacturing systems so as to achieve the most profitable combination of production levels. Using the so called ‘technology function’, the solution procedure consists of a combination of decomposition and dynamic programming. Two specific technology functions are considered as examples and it is shown how analytical consideration can be incorporated in the solution procedure so as to reduce computational requirements. Possible extensions of the problem are also discussed.
On the eigenvalue and eigenvector derivatives of a non-defective matrix

A novel approach is introduced to address the problem of existence of differentiable eigenvectors for a nondefective matrix which may have repeated eigenvalues. The existence of eigenvector derivatives for a unique set of continuous eigenvectors corresponding to a repeated eigenvalue is rigorously established for nondefective and analytic matrices. A numerically implementable method is then developed to compute the differentiable eigenvectors associated with repeated eigenvalues. The solutions of eigenvalue and eigenvector derivatives for repeated eigenvalues are then derived. An example is given to illustrate the validity of formulations developed in this paper.
A Growth-suppressive Function for the c-Fes Protein-Tyrosine Kinase in Colorectal Cancer

The human c-fes locus encodes a non-receptor protein-tyrosine kinase implicated in myeloid, vascular endothelial, and neuronal cell differentiation. A recent analysis of the tyrosine kinome in colorectal cancer identified c-fes as one of only seven genes with consistent kinase domain mutations. Although four mutations were identified (M704V, R706Q, V743M, S759F), the consequences of these mutations on Fes kinase activity were not explored. To address this issue, Fes mutants with these substitutions were co-expressed with STAT3 in human 293T cells. Surprisingly, the M704V, R706Q, and V743M mutations substantially reduced Fes autophosphorylation and STAT3 Tyr-705 phosphorylation compared with wild-type Fes, whereas S759F had little effect. These mutations had a similar impact on Fes kinase activity in a yeast expression system, suggesting that they inhibit Fes by affecting kinase domain structure. We have also demonstrated for the first time that endogenous Fes is strongly expressed at the base of colonic crypts where it co-localizes with epithelial cells positive for the progenitor cell marker Musashi-1. In contrast to normal colonic epithelium, Fes expression was reduced or absent in colon tumor sections from most individuals. Fes protein levels were also low or absent in a panel of human colorectal cancer cell lines, including HT-29 and HCT 116 cells. Introduction of Fes into these lines with a recombinant retrovirus suppressed their growth in soft agar. Together, our findings strongly implicate the c-Fes protein-tyrosine kinase as a tumor suppressor rather than a dominant oncogene in colorectal cancer.
Static reasoning about programs and queries

In this paper, I survey three projects that are loosely related by the aim to statically understand important properties of a computation. First I describe an extension to mainstream programming languages that solves some common expressiveness limitations while preserving the ability to perform static typechecking modularly. Second I describe a notion of query containment that is appropriate for data integration systems and investigate the complexity of the problem. Finally I describe a domain-specific language for writing compiler optimizations and a strategy for automatically proving the correctness of optimizations written in this language. These three projects explore themes that are prevalent in the work of Paris Kanellakis, including object orientation, type theory, database theory, and declarative languages. I was first exposed to many of these topics through my interaction with Paris.
Synthèse asymétrique et configuration absolue de dihydropyranes substitués, par hétérocycloaddition intermoléculaire d'éthers vinyliques chiraux

Abstract The alkyl vinyl ethers 2b–8b (deriving from the alcohols 2a–8a) smoothly reacted with methyl E-benzylidenepyruvate 10 in the presence of catalytic amounts of Eu(fod)3 or Yb(fod)3 in refluxing hexane, thus leading to the dihydropyran endo adducts 13–19 in high yields (80–95%). The endo -cycloadducts 13–17 were obtained with diastereofacial selectivities (ds) ranging from 76/24 to 87.5/12.5. Asymmetric induction was found to culminate with the vinyl ether (−)-7b deriving from n -butyl (R)-(⊃-mandelate: the best ds (92.5/7.5) was obtained for the corresponding adduct 18 after 6 days at room temperature. The absolute configurations of the major isomers of the dihydropyrans 16–18, 20 and 21 were established by oxydative degradation to optically active α-phenylsuccinic acid derivatives.
THE SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SECONDARY VICTIMIZATION OF FEMALE VETERANS: HELP-SEEKING EXPERIENCES WITH MILITARY AND CIVILIAN SOCIAL SYSTEMS

A sample of predominantly low-income, African American female veterans and reservists seeking health care in a Veterans' Administration medical clinic was screened for a history of sexual assault since age 18. Overall, 39% had been sexually assaulted in adulthood. Those who had been sexually victimized were asked to describe one assault incident in detail: 38% described an assault that occurred during military service and 62% described one that occurred before or after military service. This study also examined victims' postassault help-seeking experiences and the degree to which they encountered “secondary victimization” (i.e., victim-blaming behaviors and practices engaged in by legal and medical personnel, which exacerbates victims' trauma). Most victims who sought help from the legal or medical systems (military or civilian) reported that this contact made them feel guilty, depressed, anxious, distrustful of others, and reluctant to seek further help. Secondary victimization was significantly positive...
Regulation of Neuropeptides in Adult Rat Forebrain by the Neurotrophins BDNF and NGF

The expression of neuropeptides and neurotrophic factors is altered in the hippocampus after seizure induction in rats. Because the increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) mRNAs precede changes in neuropeptide expression after seizure, it is possible that BDNF and NGF mediate subsequent alterations in peptide expression. To test this hypothesis directly, BDNF or NGF was infused into the hippocampus and cortex of adult rats. To ascertain the regional specificity of any observed effects of neurotrophin administration on neuropeptide expression, infusions into the striatum were also studied. To control for specificity, vehicle was also infused into the same sites. Peptide and mRNA alterations were assessed by Northern analysis, immunohistochemistry and radioimmunoassay. BDNF produced elevations of peptide and mRNA for neuropeptide Y and cholecystokinin in hippocampus and cortex, and somatostatin in cortex. BDNF increased mRNAs for neuropeptide Y, cholecystokinin, substance P and dynorphin in striatum. In contrast, BDNF decreased dynorphin peptide and mRNA in hippocampus. NGF's effects were limited to small mRNA increases, without corresponding changes in peptide levels, for neuropeptide Y in hippocampus and striatum, substance P in cortex and cholecystokinin in striatum. The distinct and limited effects of NGF infusion on neuropeptide expression demonstrate that BDNF's effects are not non-specific results of protein infusion into the brain. These findings indicate that BDNF may play a regionally specific role in modulating neuropeptide expression in the normal brain as well as in various pathophysiological states.
An EM Algorithm For Direction-Of-Arrival Estimation For Narrowband Signals In Noiset

We derive a generalized EM algorithm for the maximum-likelihood estimation of the directions-of-arrival of multiple narrowband signals in noise, and prove that all of the limit points of the algorithm are stable and satisfy the neces-sary maximizer conditions. The deterministic signal model is considered here in which estimates of the unknown signal amplitudes are generated.
Analysis of strain gage method for measurement of post-gel shrinkage in resin composites.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to refine a strain gage method for measuring polymerization contraction of resin composites and to isolate the net post-gel contraction by identifying factors contributing to the measured strains. The hypothesis to be tested was that carefully controlled strain gage measurements of composite polymerization could isolate post-gel contraction events. Methods Composite was placed on a biaxial strain gage and light-cured. This method enabled real-time registration of the progress of shrinkage strain, corresponding to elastic modulus development. Strain from the two axes of the strain gage were averaged and plotted as a function of time. A representative curve was calculated from the mean of ten measurements. The following factors influencing the total contraction measurement were evaluated: thermal expansion of the gage, thermal expansion of the composite due to the exothermic reaction and exposure to the curing light, and adhesion of the composite to the gage. These parameters were measured so that the net deformation of the composite during polymerization could be calculated. Results Parametric studies of pre-cured and photointiator-free materials confirmed the hypothesis that strain gages measure post-gel contraction. Thermal artifacts were measured and subtracted from the total strain output. Sigficance Strain gages are suitable for measuring the clinically significant phase of composite polymerization contraction.
Synergia of a heparinoid and promethazine hydrochloride against liver cell necrosis.

The effects of combined treatment with a heparinoid-sodium pentosan polysulfate — and an antihistamine-promethazine hydrochloride — against thioacetamide-induced rat liver injury were studied. Treatment by promethazine hydrochloride at 0 and 6 hrs by 2.5 and 1.25 mg per 100 g body weight or by 1.5 mg pentosan polysulfate did not afford a real protection against liver injury. The combined, however, of these two incompletely acting schedules treatment inhibited substantially the development of liver cellnecrosis up to 96 hrs. A synergic action of the above protective agents could be supposed.
Nano-Scale Machining Via Electron Beam and Laser Processing

It is recently conceptualized that nano-scale machining might be achieved by coupling electron emission with radiation transfer. A laser may be used to heat a workpiece to a threshold temperature, and a nano-probe might then transfer additional energy via electron emission to remove a minute amount of material To investigate this hypothesis, a detailed numerical study is presented. The electron-beam transport is modeled using a Monte Carlo approach, and a radiation transfer model that includes Fresnel reflections is adapted to simulate laser heating. The numerical study suggests that approximately 0.5 W from a single electron-beam is sufficient to initialise local evaporation from a gold film. With the use of a laser, the required power can be halved if the film is sufficiently thin. This paper describes the details of the numerical study and establishes guidelines for such naon-scale machining processes.
A Phase-Plot Method for Diagnosing Vorticity Concentration Mechanisms in Mesoscale Convective Vortices

Mesoscale convective vortex (MCV) analysis results show that these vortices form by way of different evolutionary paths. Rewriting the traditional form of the relative vertical vorticity equation in terms of momentum advection curl produces an alternative form of the equation containing two terms. When the terms are normalized and plotted on orthogonal axes, a phase-plot path depicting MCV evolutionary growth is created. Thermodynamics is included in the phase plot by correlating the path to the heating characteristics of the troposphere. The application of the phase-plot scheme to several cases shows that for MCV formation events, there are two interconnected regions that combine to produce the vortex. The upper-middle- and upper-troposphere vorticity growth is governed primarily by vertical motion, with heating driving the vorticity growth in the upper-middle region. The lower-middle and lower-troposphere vorticity growth is governed primarily by horizontal motion, with the vertical heating gradient driving the vorticity growth in the lower-middle region. Which regime leads the vorticity growth is found to be case dependent. In the middle troposphere, evolutionary paths are governed by the relative strengths of heating and heating gradient. Additional phase-plot and mesoscale analyses clarify the characteristics of two MCV formation modes. In some cases, heating drives the complete formation of the MCV, whereas in cases with lesser heating, tipping is vital to the MCV formation process. In total, these results help synthesize many of the various discoveries regarding the origin and formation of the MCV.
The Second Generation of the California Urban Futures Model. Part 2: Specification and Calibration Results of the Land-Use Change Submodel

In this paper, part 2 of a three-part series (for part 1 see IRRD 492342), the authors present the formal specification and calibration results of the land-use change component of the second-generation California urban futures model. The land-use change component consists of a series of nonordinal multinomial logit models of site-specific land-use changes. These models incorporate spatial measures (for example, mix of adjacent land uses, and proximity to similar activities) as well as local policy and accessibility measures. Various model forms are developed and explained, as are multiple approaches to evaluating the equation for goodness-of-fit. (A)