cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of liquid metal embrittlement susceptibility of oxide dispersion strengthened steel MA956

Abstract This research examined the susceptibility of MA956 to liquid metal embrittlement using two experimental approaches. In both approaches, historical data on traditional steels was used to determine likely conditions to promote liquid metal embrittlement in lead and lead–bismuth eutectic environments. U-bend specimens of MA956 were found to be immune to liquid metal embrittlement after prolonged exposure to liquid lead. Similarly, slow strain rate testing of MA956 showed immunity to liquid metal embrittlement for both lead and lead–bismuth at temperatures of 328 °C and 150 °C respectively corresponding to the melting temperature of each embrittler individually. These results suggest that the same passive protective oxide layers that limit general corrosion and oxidation also prevent liquid metal embrittlement.
A hybrid OPCPA/Nd:phosphate glass multi-terawatt laser system for seeding of a petawatt laser

Abstract To enhance radiographic abilities on its Z-Accelerator, Sandia National Laboratories is incorporating a petawatt laser system into the existing Z-Backlighter laser facility. As part of this work, a short-pulse laser has been constructed to seed the larger Beamlet type Nd:phosphate glass slab amplifiers. This seed laser consists of an optical parametric chirped pulse amplification (OPCPA) system joined to a Nd:phosphate glass rod amplifier system in order to achieve multi-Joule sub-picosecond operation. The rod amplifier system has been modeled using the Miro code which shows good agreement with the experimental results. This system can achieve focal intensities up to 10 18 W/cm 2 at a repetition rate of once every 20 min and has been applied to produce k-alpha X-rays in copper.
Leukocyte migration: dismantling inhibition

A new study demonstrates that the Src-family kinases Fgr and Hck inhibit chemokine signaling in polymorphonuclear leukocytes and dendritic cells by phosphorylation of PIR-B, an inhibitory receptor expressed on leukocytes. In resting cells, PIR-B phosphorylation is constitutive but is decreased transiently by addition of chemokines. In Fgr/Hck-deficient cells, constitutive PIR-B phosphorylation is markedly decreased. These Src-family kinases have a novel role in tonic inhibition of cell activation that must be overcome to allow the phenotypic effects of chemokine signaling through G-protein-coupled receptor ligands.
Measurements of flaming combustion of pure and fire-retarded cellulose

Abstract The burning of charring materials is studied using samples prepared from pure cellulose and from cellulose which has been fire-retarded by the addition of sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate. Vertically oriented, hemispherical-nosed cylinders are burned at atmospheric pressure in mixtures of oxygen and nitrogen. The techniques developed for the preparation of homogeneous samples are described. The char layer thickness after a fixed burning time has been measured and is found to be a slowly varying function of retardant concentration. Measuremetns of the burning rates for pure and retarded cellulose show an increase with ambient oxygen concentration, and a decrease with time at fixed oxygen concentration. Extinction of the flame begins at the stagnation point and then moves downstream. Measurements of the surface temperatures show an increase with time which is attributed to the growth of the char layer. Results are presented giving the effects of retardant concentration on both burning rate and surface temperature. The amount of retardant needed to cause extinction is found to increase sharply as the ambient oxygen concentraion is increased.
Induction of Labor and Doula Support • 68

Nulliparous women between the ages of 18 and 41 in the third trimester of an uncomplicated pregnancy, who expected to be accompanied during labor by their male partner, were asked to participate in a study of doula support. 555 low-, middle-, and high-income couples were randomly assigned to have continuous emotional support by a doula during labor (doula group) or to receive routine obstetric care (control group). Results of this study demonstrated that providing doula support even when the male partner is also present with the laboring woman has a positive impact on obstetric outcomes.
The characterization of Ba3Re2O9 and Sr3Re2O9

Abstract The compounds Ba 3 Re 2 O 9 and Sr 3 Re 2 O 9 were prepared by the solid state reaction of the corresponding alkaline-earth oxide with ReO 3 at 750 to 900°C in sealed, evacuated, fused silica tubes. The two compounds are isostructural, having the nine-layer ABO 3 structure with vacant central octahedra. The unit cell parameters are given. The magnetic susceptibility for Ba 3 Re 2 O 9 indicates Curie-Weiss behavior with a Re 6+ moment having localized electrons. The magnetic data for Sr 3 Re 2 O 9 suggest delocalized electron behavior from its temperature-independent susceptibility. Both compounds appear to have semiconducting properties, but the strontium analog is a better conductor. Both compounds are unstable when heated in air above 400°C. They are readily decomposed by chemical oxidizing agents.
Synthesis and analysis of electrospray ionization-generated five-coordinate diastereomeric Ni–N-glycoside complexes using a quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer

Abstract Five-coordinate Ni N -glycoside complexes, consisting of a single tridentate N -glycoside ligand and a bidentate dap ligand coordinated to a central Ni(II) ion, were synthesized for a series of diastereomeric monosaccharides. Following excitation of the precursor ions in a quadrupole ion trap, reproducibly distinct product ion spectra were obtained for each diastereomeric complex. Neutral losses resulted from cross-ring cleavages of the monosaccharide ring and/or losses of a bidentate dap ligand. Isotopic labeling studies confirmed which particular carbon centers were lost from the precursor ion as a result of the cross-ring cleavages. Synthesis of the Ni– N glycoside complex was achieved using as little as 21 μg of monosaccharide. Production of the representative five-coordinate precursor ion was obtained over a wide range of metal–ligand:monosaccharide molar ratios and product ion spectra remained reproducible over this range.
Differential photoreactivation of Escherichia coli after exposure to 2650 and 2250 A ultraviolet.

ConclusionOur data establish that photo-reactivation of both inactivation and mutation occurs after exposure of Escherichia coli SD-4 to 2250 and 2180 A UV. The magnitude of the photoreactivation after exposure to short-wave-length ultraviolet in E. coli B/r and its derivatives is confounded with a short-wave-length UV sensitization to inactivation by the PR light itself. The quite different response to photoreactivating light exhibited by E. coli strain 42–24, presumably not derived from E. coli B/r, suggests that different strains may differ in response to UV and PR light. It would seem prudent, therefore, to study a number of unrelated strains before generalizations are made concerning mechanisms of radiation action in bacteria.
Effect of cTnC Mutations on the Response of Reconstituted Thin Filaments to Calcium Upon cTnI Phosphorylation

The objective of this work is to examine the effect of calcium sensitizing and desensitizing cTnC mutations on the response of reconstituted thin filaments to calcium upon cTnI phosphorylation. M45Q cTnC mutation increases calcium sensitivity of the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments by decreasing the rate of calcium dissociation. On the other hand, the D73N mutation (removal of an X-acid pair from the second EF-hand of cTnC) reduces the calcium sensitivity of the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments by accelerating the rate of calcium dissociation. Pseudo-phosphorylation of cTnI by PKA led to ∼2.8-fold decrease in the calcium sensitivity of the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments. In addition, pseudo-phosphorylation of cTnI led to ∼3.3-fold faster rate of calcium dissociation from the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments. However, the D73N mutation substantially diminished the extent of the decrease in calcium sensitivity and of the acceleration in calcium dissociation from the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments associated with pseudo-phosphorylation of cTnI by PKA. In contrast, M45Q mutation did not abolish the decrease in the calcium sensitivity and the acceleration in calcium dissociation from the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments induced by the pseudo-phosphorylation of cTnI by PKA. In fact, M45Q mutation enhanced the effect of cTnI pseudo-phosphorylation on the rate of Ca2+ dissociation from the cTn complex reconstituted into thin filaments. These results suggest that calcium desensitizing cTnC mutations diminish the effect of phosphorylation of cTnI on calcium binding and exchange with reconstituted thin filaments. A deeper understanding of how altered calcium sensitivity of cTnC affects the transmission of PKA phosphorylation signal from cTnI to cTnC could lead to the rational design of novel treatments for heart disease.
Expression, solubilization, and biochemical characterization of the tight junction transmembrane protein claudin-4

The tight junction tetraspan protein claudin-4 creates a charge-selective pore in the paracellular pathway across epithelia. The structure of the pore is unknown, but is presumed to result from transcellular adhesive contacts between claudin's extracellular loops. Here we report the expression of claudin-4 by baculovirus infection of Sf9 cells and describe the biochemical analysis suggesting it has a hexameric quaternary configuration. We show the detergent perfluoro-octanoic acid is able to maintain oligomeric claudin species. Sucrose velocity centrifugation and laser light scattering are also used to investigate the oligomeric state of claudin-4. In contrast to proteins of similar topology, such as gap junction family connexins, the oligomeric state of claudins appears more dynamic. These data suggest the structural organization of claudins in tight junction pores is unique.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Studies of Substituted Cyclic Ureas

The proton magnetic resonance spectra of selected substituted cyclic ethyleneureas and cyclic propyleneureas have been studied. The spectral effects produced by substitution on the parent ring compound are discussed.
Localized nodular tenosynovitis: Experience with 115 cases

One hundred fifteen cases of localized nodular synovitis (giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath) were reviewed. The optimal treatment for these lesions is unknown, and a high recurrence rate exists. Growths arose from most of the synovial sites of the hand, including joints, capsular ligaments, and tendon sheaths. Deformation of the bone surface was commonly seen; however, bone invasion was uncommon. The histologic features may vary, but the lesions are always benign and do not metastasize. Treatment consisted of thorough local excision and adjacent joint exploration when appropriate. Recurrence occurred in 10 cases (9%) with one to five additional surgical procedures needed to eradicate the lesion.
Comparative causality: explaining the differences between executions

We propose a novel fine-grained causal inference technique. Given two executions and some observed differences between them, the technique reasons about the causes of such differences. The technique does so by state replacement, i.e. replacing part of the program state at an earlier point to observe whether the target differences can be induced. It makes a number of key advances: it features a novel execution model that avoids undesirable entangling of the replaced state and the original state; it properly handles differences of omission by symmetrically analyzing both executions; it also leverages a recently developed slicing technique to limit the scope of causality testing while ensuring that no relevant state causes can be missed. The application of the technique on automated debugging shows that it substantially improves the precision and efficiency of causal inference compared to state of the art techniques.
The role of configuration and target discriminability in a visual search task

Ss sorted through decks of cards bearing five-element patterns, separating those in which all five were identical from those in which one of the five was different from the remaining four. Sorting time depended on the configuration and size of the pattern in which the elements were arranged but was independent of the goodness of these patterns. It was concluded that Ss did not attend to the patterns themselves, but just to the elements comprising them in searching for the discrepant element. The differences owing to the patterns appear to be due in part to the compactness of the configurations.
Expression of affect and physiological response in psychosomatic patients.

Abstract This study examined the relationship between physiological response to stressful stimulation and subjects' self-reported ratings of stress. Five groups of ten subjects each (normal controls, migraine headache patients, tension headache patients, essential hypertensives and rheumatoid arthritics) were exposed to a physical stressor (exercise) and a psychological stressor (mental arithmetic) while frontalis and forearm muscle tension, digital temperature, heart rate, electrodermal response, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were recorded. Although all physiological levels except diastolic blood pressure showed significant increases in the level of activation during the stressor, a tendency was observed for correlations between physiological level and subjective ratings of stressfulness to be negative. This tendency was manifest equally in the five groups studied. These results are discussed in terms of Sifneos' alexithymia concept and their possible link to stress-related diseases.
Inhibition of Cell Growth and Shoot Development by a Specific Nucleotide Sequence in a Noncoding Viroid RNA

Viroids are small noncoding and infectious RNAs that replicate autonomously and move systemically throughout an infected plant. The RNAs of the family Pospiviroidae contain a central conserved region (CCR) that has long been thought to be involved in replication. Here, we report that the CCR of Potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd) also plays a role in pathogenicity. A U257A change in the CCR converted the intermediate strain PSTVdInt to a lethal strain that caused severe growth stunting and premature death of infected plants. PSTVd with nucleotide U257 changed to C or G did not cause such symptoms. The pathogenic effect of the U257A substitution was abolished by a C259U substitution in the same RNA. Analyses of the pathogenic effects of the U257A substitution in three other PSTVd variants established A257 as a new pathogenicity determinant that functions independently and synergistically with the classic pathogenicity domain. The U257A substitution did not alter PSTVd secondary structure, replication levels, or tissue tropism. The stunted growth of PSTVdIntU257A-infected tomato plants resulted from restricted cell expansion but not cell division or differentiation. This was correlated positively with the downregulated expression of an expansin gene, LeExp2. Our results demonstrate that specific nucleotides in a noncoding, pathogenic RNA have a profound effect in altering distinct cellular responses, which then lead to well-defined alterations in plant growth and developmental patterns. The feasibility of correlating viroid RNA sequence/structure with the altered expression of specific host genes, cellular processes, and developmental patterns makes viroid infection a valuable system in which to investigate host factors for symptom expression and perhaps also to characterize the mechanisms of RNA regulation of gene expression in plants.
Sulfur dioxide and ammonium sulfate effects on pulmonary function and bronchial reactivity in human subjects

The effect of exposures to 1 ppm sulfur dioxide (SO2) and 500 µg/m3 respirable ammonium sulfate [(NH4)2SO4] was studied in 20 nonsmoking subjects to determine if a response can be measured at these atmospheric levels and if the response is additive or synergistic. Four-hour separate and combined exposures were employed. Each subject acted as his or her own control and performed two light-to-moderate exercise stints (612 kg-m/min) for 15 minutes on each day's confinement in the environmental chamber. Pulmonary function tests (body plethysmography and spirometry) and bronchial reactivity to methacholine were performed to assess the response of these exposures. No significant changes in pulmonary function or bronchial reactivity were observed in the individual exposures [(NH4)2SO4 or SO2], the combined exposure [(NH4)2SO4 and SO2], or 24 hours post-exposure. This study design and the observed results did not demonstrate any readily apparent risk to healthy subjects with these exposures. Since no significant ...
A canonical form for parallel programs

We present a technique for analyzing a sequential program for possible parallelism. The technique is basically that used by compilers during optimization. The technique can be used without programming.
Validating a clinical measure of levator hiatus size

Objective We evaluate the interrater reliability of levator hiatus (LH) size and correlate size to other measures of muscle function. Study design Participants were examined independently by 2 examiners. During maximal contraction of the levator ani, the muscle was assessed by using Brink's scale. The LH was measured in the transverse and sagittal dimensions by digital palpation. The paired t test was used to compare continuous variables and Spearman's coefficient was used for correlations. Results The mean LH transverse was 4.5 cm and the mean LH sagittal was 3 cm. The inter-rater correlation for the LH transverse measurement was 0.6 ( P P P Conclusion This technique for clinical measurement of levator hiatus size shows good interrater reliability.
Use of micellar mobile phases and microbore column switching for the assay of drugs in physiological fluids.

Abstract The feasibility of directly assaying drugs in physiological fluids using on-line preconcentration and microbore high-performance liquid chromatography has been demonstrated. The untreated sample is injected onto a hydrophobic pre-column, using micellar sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in the case of serum or phosphate buffer in the case of urine, as the load mobile phase. This traps the components of interest which are then backflushed onto a microbore analytical column using a stronger mobile phase. This procedure was then applied to diazepam in serum and phenobarbital in urine. Recovery was linear and quantitative over the range 30–3000 ng/ml for diazepam in serum and 2–200 μg/ml for phenobarbital in urine. The diazepam method was specific against caffeine and the three major metabolites of diazepam: oxazepam, temazepam, and nordiazepam. The effects of varying pre-column dimensions, pre-column loading time, and SDS concentration volume were evaluated.
Ultrafast, multi-THz-detuning, third-order frequency conversion in semiconductor quantum-well waveguides

The near-band-edge resonance nonlinearity of semiconductor quantum wells has been used to obtain nondegenerate four-wave mixing over a multi-THz frequency detuning range, with large conversion efficiencies. In 1-mm-long, passive AlGaAs/GaAs single-quantum-well waveguides, conversion efficiencies up to -8.5 dB with relatively flat response have been observed over a 7.5-THz range (2.2% of the band gap). The nonlinearity is ultrafast and primarily reactive. The potential application of this technique to wavelength shifting devices is discussed. >
A comparison between two methods for the solution of the Lane equations

Abstract Scattering amplitudes for elastic proton scattering from the isospin-dependent local Lane potential are calculated by exact numerical integration and in a one-level approximation using the Green function techniques. As an example, scattering from 208 Pb is considered around resonances which are analogues of single-particle bound states in 209 Pb. Close agreement is found between scattering amplitudes calculated with the two methods. Tables of calculated S -matrix elements, which are useful for checking purposes, are given. The parameters for resonances such as analogue resonances are determined from an analytic pole-expansion of the scattering amplitude; this method is particularly useful in combination with the exact numerical integration method.
Sparse volterra systems: Theory and practice

Nonlinear effects limit analog circuit performance, causing both in-band and out-of-band distortion. The classical Volterra series provides an accurate model of many nonlinear systems, but the number of parameters grows extremely quickly as the memory depth and polynomial order are increased. Recently, concepts from compressed sensing have been applied to nonlinear system modeling in order to address this issue. This work investigates the theory and practice of applying compressed sensing techniques to nonlinear system identification under the constraints of typical radio frequency (RF) laboratories. The main theoretical result shows that these techniques are capable of identifying sparse Memory Polynomials using only single-tone training signals rather than pseudorandom noise. Empirical results using laboratory measurements of an RF receiver show that sparse Generalized Memory Polynomials can also be recovered from two-tone signals.
Multifrequency Soil Moisture Inversion from SAR Measurements with the Use of IEM

Abstract This study focuses on the development of a consistent methodology for soil-moisture inversion from synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data with the use of the integral equation model (IEM), developed by A. K. Fung and colleagues, without the need to prescribe time-varying land-surface attributes as constraining parameters. Specifically, the dependence of backscatter coefficients obtained from synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on the soil dielectric constant, surface-roughness height, and correlation length was investigated. The IEM was used in conjunction with an inversion model to retrieve soil moisture by using multifrequency and multipolarization data (L-, C-, and X-bands) simultaneously. The results were cross validated with gravimetric observations obtained during the Washita '94 field experiment in the Little Washita Watershed, Oklahoma. The average error in the estimated soil moisture was of the order of 3.4%, which is comparable to that expected due to noise in the SAR data. The retrieval algorithm performed very well for low incidence angles and over bare soil fields, and it deteriorated slightly for vegetated areas and overall for very dry soil conditions. Although the original IEM model was developed for bare soil conditions only, one important result of this study was the fact that the retrieval algorithm performed well for vegetated conditions, as demonstrated by the fact that the convergence ratio varied between 92% (dry conditions) and 98% (wet conditions) of all pixels for all days of the experiment. The sensitivity of soil-moisture estimates to spatial aggregation of remote-sensing data before and after the retrieval also was investigated. The results suggest that there is potential to improve the operational utility of high-resolution SAR data for soil-moisture monitoring by compressing the SAR data (preaggregation) to a spatial resolution at least one order of magnitude above that of measurement.
Investigation of rotational transonic flows through ducts using a finite element scheme

An application of the finite element method is presented in order to study the flow through a two-dimensional channel including the choked and nearly-choked flow conditions. The mathematical procedure provides a combined treatment of potential and Euler equations, where the steady Euler equations are solved through the integration of a pseudo-time system which is equivalent to a relaxation scheme; the isentropic, potential flow equations are embedded in this formulation. To analyze the transonic flow through a channel with near-choked flow conditions, the flow through a parallel channel with a 10 percent circular arc bump is calculated as a sample problem.
An epigenetic feedback regulatory loop involving microRNA-195 and MBD1 governs neural stem cell differentiation.

Background Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNAs, play pivotal roles in stem cell biology. Methyl-CpG binding protein 1 (MBD1), an important epigenetic regulator of adult neurogenesis, controls the proliferation and differentiation of adult neural stem/progenitor cells (aNSCs). We recently demonstrated that MBD1 deficiency in aNSCs leads to altered expression of several noncoding microRNAs (miRNAs). Methodology/Principal Findings Here we show that one of these miRNAs, miR-195, and MBD1 form a negative feedback loop. While MBD1 directly represses the expression of miR-195 in aNSCs, high levels of miR-195 in turn repress the expression of MBD1. Both gain-of-function and loss-of-function investigations show that alterations of the MBD1–miR-195 feedback loop tip the balance between aNSC proliferation and differentiation. Conclusions/Significance Therefore the regulatory loop formed by MBD1 and miR-195 is an important component of the epigenetic network that controls aNSC fate.
A semantic approach to mobile learning analytics

Mobile learning has reached a considerable level of maturity in recent years, and its role is widely acknowledged in school contexts, university, vocational training, formal and non-formal learning settings, and more generally as an opportunity for lifelong learning. Despite its maturity, evaluation of mobile learning remains an open research issue, especially as regards the activities that take place outside the classroom. In this context, Learning Analytics can provide answers, and offer the appropriate tools to enhance mobile learning experiences. In recent years Learning Analytics has been highly successful in different contexts, but mobile learning exhibits particular characteristics related to the technologies used, student mobility, the possibility of having localized data and information and the social dynamics that characterize the context in which learning takes place. In this paper we propose an innovative approach to support analytics of learners' activities in a mobile learning setting based on the Semantic Web paradigm and on the semantic relationships expressed in the Linked Open Data cloud. MeLOD, a mobile environment for learning with Linked Open Data, is also introduced as a demonstrator for the ideas illustrated in the paper. Potentials and pitfalls of the proposed approach, both for teachers and learners, are reported in the conclusions.
Crystal structures and morphology of thin-film, melt-crystallized, and polymerized poly(ethylene naphthalate)

Abstract Application of electron diffraction (ED) to poly(ethylene naphthalate) (PEN) crystallized isothermally from the melt at 260°C has permitted determination of the α-and β-form unit cells. While the α-form lattice parameters and cell agree well with those proposed in the literature, a different cell is proposed for the β-form (monoclinic, P21/n11 space group; 4 chains, with a = 1.304 nm, b = 0.926 nm, c = 1.300 nm, α = 131.47°, β = γ = 90°, ρ = 1.368 g/cm3). The β-form crystals were large, resembling hedrites (axialites). A number of different, single-zone ED patterns from at least one additional two-chain unit cell (γ) were found, indicating a large degree of PEN polymorphism. The γ unit cell has not yet been determined. Nascent melt-polymerized samples were also examined, giving rise to both β-and γ-type patterns. The γ-patterns arise from extended-chain single crystals of variable thickness.
69 NEONATAL BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT AND PSYCHOLOGICAL OUTCOME AT 1 YEAR IN HICH RISK INFANTS

33 infants requiring ICU nursery care had Brazelton Behavioral Testing prior to discharge and were followed for 1 year. At birth 91% were <2500 g. and 37 wks. gestation; 61% were caucasian, 30% Mexican-American; 64% had birth asphyxia; 15% were SGA; 58% had IRDS with 70% of those ventilated. The Brazelton Test was performed at 35-42 weeks in 88%. At 1 year the Bayley test was administered. The results were corrected for gestational age and the percent achieving each score are below: Complete tests were not achieved in all children because of fatigue or failure to cooperate. Significant correlations found were: 1) SGA babies did more poorly on fine motor tasks, 2) Infants who had better self organization on the Brazelton had better scores on gross motor tasks, and 3) Infants with better passive resistance to arm movement on the Brazelton scored better on both motor and mental parts of the Bayley. Conclusion: Two items in the Brazelton test correlated with good performance on the Bayley test in high risk infants.
Workplace trends in office space: implications for future office demand

Purpose – This study aims to examine the trends in space per office worker and the influence of a number of factors on the ability to reduce space per worker. These trends are important in that they impact future office demand along with property values. Design/methodology/approach – Using both survey and empirical data a simulation model is used to examine the impact on space per worker over the course of a typical lease. Factors considered include the length of lease, the worker growth rate of the firm, turnover and time to fill positions, the type of organizational management hierarchy, whether dedicated or non-dedicated space is utilized and firm policies toward working out of the traditional office. Findings – Space per worker will continue to decline over time, yet collaborative work environments and the effects of traditional management and cultural momentum suggest that downsizing will take time. Counter to the initial hypothesis, growing tenants do not over-consume space in the early years but ra...
Transcatheter closure of the patent ductus arteriosus: a comparative study between occluding coils and the Rashkind umbrella device.

This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of transcatheter coil closure of the patent ductus arteriosus in comparison to our experience with the Rashkind umbrella device. Transcatheter coil closure of the patent ductus arteriosus has been reported with encouraging results. We present our experience with ducti up to 5.0 mm in diameter and report the short-term follow-up. We compare the results with our previous experience with the Rashkind umbrella device. Seventy-one patients underwent transcatheter coil closure. Median age was 3.1 years, and median weight was 13.6 kg. Mean ductus diameter was 2.0 +/- 1.1 mm. These were compared with 105 patients who underwent transcatheter closure using a single Rashkind umbrella device. The median age was 3.2 years and the median weight was 14.0 kg. The mean ductus diameter for this group was 2.1 +/- 0.6 mm. The ductus murmur in the coil group disappeared in all patients. Immediate ( or = 3.0 mm required two or more coils. Eleven coils in six patients embolized to the pulmonary arteries. All coils except one were retrieved with subsequent successful foil placement. Sixty-seven patients (94%) in the coil group were discharged in < or = 24 h. Transcatheter closure of the patent ductus arteriosus using multiple coils is a more effective technique than the Rashkind umbrella closure and has excellent short-term results. This can be performed safely as an outpatient procedure.
The multi-dimensional regulation of gene expression by fatty acids: polyunsaturated fats as nutrient sensors.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW A diet that provides 2-5% of energy as highly unsaturated 20- and 22-carbon omega-6 or omega-3 fatty acids is associated with an inhibition of hepatic lipogenesis, a stimulation of hepatic fatty acid oxidation, and consequently a lowering of blood triglyceride levels. The purpose of this review is to demonstrate that highly unsaturated fatty acids regulate lipid metabolism by modulating protein expression at many levels including gene transcription, messenger RNA processing, mRNA decay, and post-translational protein modifications. Although the intracellular signaling mechanisms employed by highly unsaturated fatty acids are unknown, this review presents a summary of the emerging knowledge regarding highly unsaturated fatty acids as kinase cascade activators. RECENT FINDINGS Highly unsaturated fatty acids suppress lipogenic gene transcription by reducing the DNA binding activity of several transcription factors, notably sterol regulatory-element binding protein 1 and nuclear factor Y. Highly unsaturated fatty acids inhibit the proteolytic release of sterol regulatory-element binding protein 1 from its membrane-anchored precursor through a ceramide-dependent signal, and impart a post-translational modification to nuclear factor Y. Highly unsaturated fatty acids accelerate sterol regulatory-element binding protein 1 mRNA decay and may function as antagonistic ligands for liver receptor X, thereby interfering with the liver receptor X stimulation of sterol regulatory-element binding protein 1 gene transcription. Highly unsaturated fatty acid activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha combined with their displacement of the oxysterol from liver receptor X may 'trap' liver receptor X as transcriptionally inactive peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha/liver receptor X heterodimer. The gene expression consequences of liver receptor X 'trapping' may explain how dietary highly unsaturated fatty acids lead to a repartitioning of fatty acids away from storage and towards oxidation. SUMMARY The liver appears to use the highly unsaturated fatty acid status as a nutrient sensor to determine whether fatty acids are to be stored or oxidized. In this way highly unsaturated fatty acids may function as nutritional factors that reduce the risk of developing hepatic lipotoxicity and insulin resistance.
Pregnancy diagnosis in dairy goats using ultrasonic Doppler instruments.

Abstract Accurate diagnosis of pregnancy in does from one to 104 days before kidding was made by using an ultrasonic Doppler technique. Detection of pregnancy 106 days and more before kidding was not possible with external transducers. Prediction of multiple births has not been successful to date. The instruments are portable and can be used anywhere, since they employ are chargeable battery pack as a source of power. Instruments with a frequency of 5 MHz seem to be superior for early detection of pregnancy, whereas those with a frequency of 2.25 MHz may be superior for the detection of fetal heart movement in fetuses near term.
Improvement of hybrid yield by advanced backcross QTL analysis in elite maize

We applied an advanced backcross breeding strategy to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) of agronomic importance in a cross between two elite inbreds of maize, RD6502 (Mo17-type recurrent parent) and RD3013 (Iodent donor parent). Two hundred and four BC(2) families were scored at 106 SSR, 15 AFLP, and 38 Heartbreaker (MITE) loci. BC(2) testcrosses (TC) with B73 were phenotyped at six locations in the Midwest and N.Y. We detected four grain yield, six grain moisture, and three plant height QTLs at which the RD3013 allele had a favorable effect ( p < 0.05). All four yield QTLs were selected as target introgressions in the development of BC(3)TC families. As predicted by BC(2)TC analysis, BC(3)TC entries containing introgressions at yld3.1 and yld10.1 significantly outperformed non-carrier entries by 11.1% (15.6 bu/A at one location) and 6.7% (7.1 bu/A averaged across two locations), respectively, in replicated Midwestern trials ( p < 0.05). Detection of yld10.1 effects in the BC(2)TC by spatial analysis (i.e., incomplete block, response surface, autoregressive, moving average or autoregressive moving average), but not by conventional single point analysis or interval mapping, indicated the utility of local environmental control for QTL mapping in unreplicated maize progeny. This work demonstrated that the advanced backcross QTL method can be applied to identify and manipulate useful QTLs in heterotic inbreds of elite maize. Genetic gains by this approach can be coupled with the maintenance and selection of favorable epistatic gene complexes by traditional hybrid breeding for maize improvement.
Imperfect detectors in linear optical quantum computers

We discuss the effects of imperfect photon detectors suffering from loss and noise on the reliability of linear optical quantum computers. We show that for a given detector efficiency there is a maximum achievable success probability, and that increasing the number of ancillary photons and detectors used for one controlled sign flip gate beyond a critical point will decrease the probability that the computer will function correctly. We have also performed simulations of some small logic gates and estimate the efficiency and noise levels required for the linear optical quantum computer to function properly. We find that the construction of a $99%$ reliable controlled sign flip gate would require photon detectors with an efficiency greater than 0.999987.
Patient Outcomes Following Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft and Free Gingival Graft Procedures

Background: Subepithelial connective tissue grafts (CTGs) and free gingival grafts (FGGs) are common periodontal procedures with similar indications; however, they may differ regarding patient outcomes. Reports on postoperative periodontal patient outcomes are limited. The aim of this observational trial was to compare patient-based outcomes for CTGs and FGGs.Methods: Patients who received CTG or FGG completed postoperative questionnaires at 3 days and 3 weeks to assess pain, number of analgesic pills taken, and number of days pills were taken. Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS).Results: Twenty-three subjects (12 CTGs and 11 FGGs) completed the study. Differences between CTG and FGG groups in VAS pain scores at 3 days did not reach statistical significance. The proportion of subjects reporting pain in the palate at 3 days was significantly greater for FGG (P <0.05). There were no significant intergroup differences at 3 weeks. For the FGG group, 3-week VAS pain scores were le...
Lattice calculation of muon-pair production with capture in relativistic heavy-ion collisions

We present a schematic study of muon-pair production with capture of the negative muon into the 1sq~2 ground state in relativistic heavy-ion collisions. The muon pairs are generated by a time-dependent, screened electromagnetic field. Our numerical calculations are carried out on a three-dimensional lattice with 20— 30 mesh points in each direction, utilizing the B-spline collocation method. Numerical convergenc0 has been demonstrated using a Lorentz-boosted screened Coulomb potential. For the system Au+ Au at collider energies of 0.2, 1.0 and 2.0 GeV/nucleon, we obtain probabilities for dimuon production with capture between 1.0 x 10 and 7.0 x 10 at grazing impact parameters. This may indicate that the electromagnetic lepton-pair production is strongly nonperturbative.
Comparative Study of Children With ADHD Only, Autism Spectrum Disorder + ADHD, and Chronic Multiple Tic Disorder + ADHD

Objective: Identification of differences among children with ADHD only, autism spectrum disorder (ASD)+ADHD, and chronic multiple tic disorder (CMTD)+ADHD may lead to better understanding of clinical phenotypes. Method: Children were evaluated using the parent- and teacher-completed questionnaires. Results: All three groups were highly similar in severity of oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder symptoms; however, the ASD+ADHD group generally exhibited the most severe anxiety, although the CMTD+ADHD group had the most severe generalized anxiety. The two comorbid groups had the most involved medical histories and the greatest likelihood of a family history of psychopathology. Conclusion: Groups differed in clinically meaningful ways, and the apparent association between tics and anxiety may explain in part the elevated levels of anxiety in both comorbid groups. Collectively, results suggest that ADHD may be better conceptualized as a family of interrelated syndromes defined in part by comorbid...
Dietary Patterns Affect Lung Cancer Risk in Never Smokers

A number of studies suggest a role of dietary factors as risk predictors of lung cancer in never smokers. However, it is difficult to interpret the observed associations of lung cancer risk with any particular dietary item due to high correlation among different dietary items. In this study, we derived uncorrelated patterns of dietary items in the never smokers and evaluated the association of these patterns with lung cancer risk, using food frequency data from 299 never-smoker lung cancer patients and 317 controls enrolled in an ongoing case–control lung cancer study. We identified 2 major dietary patterns in never smokers: a “healthy eating” pattern including vegetables, fruits, and low-fat food items, and a “mixed dishes” pattern including most foods with positive loadings. Using multivariable regression analysis, we show that the healthy eating pattern is associated with a significant reduction of lung cancer risk among never smokers. The effect of the healthy eating pattern remained significant after...
International Symposium on Hydrometry

Approximately 520 engineers and scientists from 55 countries attended the International Symposium on Hydrometry held at Koblenz, Federal Republic of Germany, from September 13 through 22, 1970. The symposium was convened by Uhesco and organized in cooperation with the World Meteorological Organizations (WMO), Unesco, the National Committee for the International Hydrological Decade of the Federal Republic of Germany, and the International Association of Scientific Hydrology (IASH). The symposium was organized within the framework of the International Hydrological Decade (IHD). After a welcoming speech by J. Wallner, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, the opening address was presented by S. Dumitrescu, the representative of Unesco. Introductory statements were then delivered by T. Palas, the representative of WMO; by L.J. Tison, the representative of IASH; and by K. Wittock, the representative of the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany.
An inexact Newton method for nonlinear two-point boundary-value problems

The method of quasilinearization for nonlinear two-point boundary-value problems is an application of Newton's method to a nonlinear differential operator equation. Since the linear boundary-value problem to be solved at each iteration must be discretized, it is natural to consider quasilinearization in the framework of an inexact Newton method. More importantly, each linear problem is only a local model of the nonlinear problem, and so it is inefficient to try to solve the linear problems to full accuracy. Conditions on size of the relative residual of the linear differential equation can then be specified to guarantee rapid local convergence to the solution of the nonlinear continuous problem. If initial-value techniques are used to solve the linear boundary-value problems, then an integration step selection scheme is proposed so that the residual criteria are satisfied by the approximate solutions. Numerical results are presented that demonstrate substantial computational savings by this type of economizing on the intermediate problems.
Regulation of melanization by glutathione in the moth Pseudoplusia includens

Abstract The phenoloxidase (PO) cascade regulates the melanization of hemolymph, which serves as a conserved humoral immune response in insects and other arthropods. The reductant glutathione (GSH) has long been used to inhibit melanization of hemolymph from insects but whether GSH levels in hemolymph are sufficient to play a physiological role in regulating melanization is unknown. Here, we characterized the abundance and effects of GSH on the melanization of plasma from larval stage Pseudoplusia includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). GSH concentration in newly collected plasma from day two fifth instars ranged from 50 to 115 μM, while the titer of tyrosine, a substrate for the PO cascade, was 141 μM. GSH titers rapidly declined in plasma after collection from larvae, but no melanin formation occurred until GSH levels fell below 20 μM. Added GSH dose-dependently blocked melanization while PO substrates overrode GSH inhibition. Experiments conducted in the absence of oxygen and presence of PO cascade inhibitors further suggested that depletion of GSH from plasma was primarily due to formation of reactive intermediates produced by activated PO. Additional studies identified hemocytes as a potential source of plasma GSH. Hemocyte lysates recycled oxidized glutathione (GSSG) into GSH using NADPH, while intact hemocytes released GSH into the medium. These results suggest that in addition to protease cascade-releated mechanisms that regulate phenoloxidase, GSH exerts another level of control on melanization of insect hemolymph.
Surgical outcomes of cataract extractions performed by residents using phacoemulsification

Purpose: To assess whether changes in surgical technique, resident training, and phacoemulsification equipment affected the complication rate for cataract extractions performed by residents. Setting: Combined urban and rural setting at a tertiary care academic center and a general care Veterans Administration Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 396 patients who had cataract surgery by phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation performed by four residents. The residents' first 50 cases were compared with the last 50 cases performed at the end of their training. Surgical and 1 day postoperative complications were examined. Results: Twenty of 396 surgical cases (5.1 %) involved complications, and the overall vitreous loss rate for the four residents was 1.8%. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two residents with the highest and lowest number of intraoperative complications (P < .05) and between the two residents with the highest and lowest number of 1 day postoperative complications (P < .05). The rate of posterior capsule rupture with vitreous loss was 2.6% in the residents' early cases; the decrease to no cases of posterior capsule rupture in the late cases was also statistically significant (P < .02). Conclusion: The results indicate that with proper training and supervision, residents can obtain an acceptably low complication rate using phacoemulsification. As their skill increased, they were able to use phacoemulsification successfully on more complicated cases. Individual skill was also an important factor in the complication rate.
High Directive Antenna with Virtual Aperture

Here we propose a spherical shell-core structure which is able to achieve arbitrarily large directivity. The structure is obtained from coordinate transformation. A small antenna can be projected to free space with a large dimension, which subsequently leads to a large directivity.
Midlatitude Excitation of Tropical Variability in the Pacific: The Role of Thermodynamic Coupling and Seasonality*

Abstract A set of ensemble model experiments using the National Center for Atmospheric Research Community Atmospheric Model version 3.0 (CAM3) is run to investigate the tropical Pacific response to midlatitude atmospheric variability associated with the atmospheric North Pacific Oscillation (NPO). Heat flux anomalies associated with the NPO are used to force a set of model simulations during boreal winter (when the NPO is most energetic), after which the forcing is switched off and the coupled model evolves on its own. Sea surface temperature (SST) and wind anomalies continue to amplify in the tropical Pacific after the imposed forcing has been shut off, indicating that coupled ocean–atmosphere interactions in the tropical Pacific alter the spatial and temporal structure of variability associated with midlatitude forcing. The tropical circulation evolves through feedbacks between the surface wind, evaporation, and SST (the WES feedback), as well as through changes in the shortwave radiative heat flux (cau...