cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the concept of earthquake resistant hybrid steel frames

Abstract The concept of hybrid steel frame system is presented in which mixtures of fully-rigid and semi-rigid steel connections are used in the 9 and 20-story SAC frames. Several different patterns and locations of semi-rigid connection replacements within the frame are examined in order to identify the hybrid frames with most energy dissipation capabilities. Inelastic dynamic analyses are conducted on the proposed selected frames by subjecting them to the Los Angeles earthquake records characterized as those with 10% probabilities of exceedance in 50 years and 2% probabilities of exceedance in 50 years. The maximum story drift for the hybrid frames are determined and compared to the “life safety” and “collapse prevention” limits as recommended by the FEMA 356. The roof-displacement time history, story drift, and member forces for the hybrid frames are reported and compared with those of conventional SAC frames without semi-rigid connections.
Homologies in the active site regions of lactate dehydrogenases.

Abstract Peptides isolated from several lactate dehydrogenases (EC 1.1.1.27) have been characterized and sequenced. These peptides include much of the substrate binding site as well as the loop of polypeptide chain which shows major conformational changes following coenzyme binding. Despite significant differences in catalytic properties, the amino acid sequence in these two active site regions of the molecule is highly conserved in most cases. A noteable exception is cysteine 165 which at one time was thought to be essential for enzymatic activity. The lactate dehydrogenases investigated were isolated from rabbit muscle, chicken heart, beef heart, and lobster tail.
Opinion #2: Melvin C. Gitlin, MD, and Marcos FeBornstein, MD

The first question pertains to whether it is ethical to use blind dosing. Most drug treatments are “blind”; we normally do not spend much time or energy discussing the milligrams of, for example, antihypertensives or antibiotics. We simply tell the patient how to take the medication and, for the most part, encounter no resistance. In fact, when patients are asked which medications they take, they rarely know the dose in milligrams. So the question is more specific to pain treatment. Why should milligrams of analgesics be an issue in the first place? Because it is made an issue in this case, it is a question worth examining. According to the case report, “it is used here [the blind dosing] to avoid the tug of war that so often ensues about the ‘number of milligrams’ of any opioid that is being used.” However, the case report makes no mention of any tug of war. Assuming a tug of war has not actually happened, the clinician may be assuming a priori that this is going to occur and is acting preventively. If this is the case, the clinician is acting on an assumption, not on facts. Second, we do not know the basis of this assumption, whether it is based on prejudice, given the patient's history of heroin use, or some other data. If the rationale to use blind dosing is that such a tug of war “so often ensues,” it is being justified on a basis that does not pertain to the patient in particular but is a generalization. The treatment is no longer individualized but is based on some other general frame …
Evaluation of the Bioavailability of a Solid Dispersion of Phenytoin in Polyethylene Glycol 6000 and a Commercial Phenytoin Sodium Capsule in the Dog

In this study a solid dispersion of phenytoin in polyethylene glycol 6000 was prepared by the melt method. The content uniformity of the dispersion indicated a range of 98.7–102.0%. X-ray crystallographic data showed no changes in the crystalline structure of the phenytoin in the dispersion when compared with that in the bulk reagent. Scanning electron micrographs of the dispersion show a reduction in the size of the crystals when compared with the bulk reagent. The commercial product and the dispersion were compared using the USP criteria for the prompt phenytoin sodium dissolution test. The salt dissolved at a rate four times greater than the dispersion. Bioequivalency comparisons between the dispersion containing phenytoin and the commercial prompt phenytoin sodium were studied in six mixed-breed dogs. All samples were analyzed using a commercial enzyme immunoassay system. Statistical analysis of the plasma levels obtained from the animal studies indicate no significant differences (p > 0.05) between area under the curve, maximum plasma concentration, and time to peak for the commercial salt and the acid formulation.
Effects of arginine and antioxidant vitamins on pulmonary artery reactivity to phenylephrine in the broiler chicken

ABSTRACT The effects of supplemental L-arginine (Arg), vitamin E (VE), and vitamin C (VC) on vascular reactivity to phenylephrine (PE) were examined in clinically healthy hypoxemic male broiler chickens. One-day-old chicks were housed in wire cages and randomly allocated to 1 of 3 dietary treatments: control (CTL; n = 80; 3,200 kcal of ME/kg, 23% CP, 1.55% Arg and 40 IU of VE/kg of feed), high-Arg (HA; n = 40; CTL + 0.8% Arg), or high-Arg and high antioxidant-vitamin diet (AEC; n = 40; HA + 200 IU of VE/kg of feed and 500 mg of VC/kg of feed). At d 14, 40 CTL birds and all the HA and AEC birds had a primary pulmonary bronchus surgically occluded (PBO). Forty CTL broilers underwent surgery without occluding the bronchus (SHAM). Pulmonary artery (PA) rings were mounted for isometric tension recordings 14 to 21 d postsurgery. The HA-PBO and AEC-PBO PA were immersed in Krebs-Henseleit buffer plus a vehicle (VehCtl) or Krebs-Henseleit buffer plus supplemental Arg, or Arg, VE, and VC (A-E-C). Maximal contractile response to PE of the CTL-SHAM PA (16 ± 14 mg/mg of dry tissue) was one-tenth compared with that of the CTL-PBO PA (159 ± 13 mg/mg), whereas the PA contractility in the supplemented groups was one-ninth compared with those of the CTL-PBO (17.9 ± 13.0 mg/mg, 17.90 ± 13.0 mg/mg for the HA-PBO+Arg and AEC-PBO+A-E-C treatments, respectively). Supplementing the bath with Arg did not change the maximal response to PE compared with the vehicle control (16.7 ± 12.2 mg/mg for HA-PBO-VehCtl). However, supplementing the bath with A-E-C produced a one-fourth reactivity compared with that of the vehicle control (80.7 ± 13.0 mg/mg for AEC-PBO-VehCtl). The PBO increased PA reactivity to PE, but supplemental Arg plus VE and VC significantly reduced it. Differential reactivity responses to PE may have been the result of protective effects of Arg, VE, and VC, implicating oxidative stress in endothelial dysfunction as well as in the upregulation of smooth muscle contractility.
Single pass mean residence time in peripheral tissues: a distribution parameter intrinsic to the tissue affinity of a drug.

The single pass mean residence time in peripheral tissues, t¯p1, is a characteristic constant of linear pharmacokinetic systems and nonlinear systems with linear distribution kinetics. It is descriptive of distribution kinetics in such systems and is not dependent on elimination kinetics as are other related parameters, e.g., mean residence time in peripheral tissues, t¯p. Equations are derived which permit estimation of t¯p1, from experimental data for systems in which no peripheral elimination occurs. The type of data required are systemic drug levels resulting from iv administration. The probability density function for single pass residence time in peripheral tissues is derived. It is shown that t¯p1, is related to the amount of drug in the peripheral tissues at steady state according to (Ap)ss=CLdCsst¯p1, where CLd is the distribution clearance, and Css is the steady-state systemic drug level. Values of t¯p1, are presented for several drugs.
Domain nucleation dictates overall nanostructure in composites of block copolymers and model nanorods

Abstract The detailed nanostructure of composites formed from block copolymers and nanoparticles is known to depend sensitively on the preferred morphology of the block copolymer, on the shapes of the particles, and on interactions between the two components. But it can also depend on the kinetics of self-assembly in the polymer, and there are circumstances under which the kinetics of morphologically selective domain nucleation and growth determine the overall nanostructure of the composite. To study the mechanism of morphological seeding in block-copolymer nanocomposites, we have combined cylinder phases of polystyrene- block -polyisoprene diblock (as a solution in dibutylphthalate) and poly(styrene- block -isoprene- block -styrene) triblock (as a blend with homopolystyrene) copolymers with gold nanorods of different diameters and surface treatments. Polarized optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy on these composites demonstrate that the nanorods selectively nucleate coaxial domains of copolymer cylinders (i.e., domains of cylinders aligned along the same axis as the nanorod). These single nucleation events occur regardless of nanorod diameter and surface character, and determine the order of most of the surrounding polymer. Mesoscale modeling of the nucleation process, performed with nanorods of different diameters and with different polymer–surface interactions, illustrates the mechanism by which copolymer-dispersed nanorods with different sizes and surface chemistry can template the organization of cylindrical copolymer domains.
Development of an exposure assessment method for epidemiological studies of New York State personnel who responded to the World Trade Center disaster

OBJECTIVES: An exposure assessment method was developed for use in assigning an exposure score to New York State personnel who responded to the World Trade Center disaster site after the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks. METHODS: The method consists of an algorithm with two instantiations. Each represents a major component of the overall exposures at the site: dust and smoke. The algorithm uses US Environmental Protection Agency air monitoring data collected between 23 September 2001 and 28 February 2002, as well as information on duration, location and time period of work assignment and type and frequency of personal protective respiratory equipment (PPE) use, collected by a self-administered mailed questionnaire. These data were used to calculate an overall exposure score for each participant. For each time period/location combination, individuals provided average number of hours and number of days worked. This was multiplied by a weighting factor derived from the median of the air monitoring data for the time period/location. Calcium was chosen as a surrogate for the dust exposure, so the weighting factors for the dust instantiation were calculated from calcium air monitoring data. Total hepta-chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin was chosen as a surrogate for the smoke exposure and was similarly used in the smoke instantiation. RESULTS: More individuals in the highest exposure score category performed tasks such as search/rescue and hand digging than those in the lowest exposure category. Also, those in the highest exposure category had a higher mean number of hours at the site than other exposure groups. CONCLUSIONS: The exposure assessment method presented accounts for PPE use, amount of time at the site, proximity to the site and ambient air monitoring results taken in the immediate vicinity. The algorithm can be used to rank individuals in the same study with very different patterns of exposure, such as high-level, short-term exposures and low-level, long-term exposures. The concepts could be modified for use in other epidemiological studies where long-term chronic exposure is a concern. Language: en
Faculty Concerns Related to Distance Learning within Nontraditional Doctoral Programs

As a unique academic offering, the nontraditional, distance-delivered doctorate poses particular issues for faculty members who choose to teach in such a program. Among these issues are compensation, administrative support, technology, innovation, time demands, workload, and promotion and tenure.
A Self-Tuning Algorithm for Z-Axis Micro Rate Integrating Gyroscopes

Vibratory micro rate integrating gyroscopes (MRIG) are conventionally modeled using the position and velocity of the gyroscope, as the state space variables. This work describes the dynamic analysis of a z-axis MRIG using an alternate set of dynamic variables, which are the angular momentum, the inner product between position and linear momentum vectors, the Lagrangian and total energy of the system. This alternate description is used to derive the conditions for the ideal gyroscope to operate at the correct precession rate with minimal quadrature. A self-tuning algorithm is presented, which compensates the gyroscope’s damping and sitffness mismatches, while allowing the gyroscope to precess at the correct precession rate with minimal quadrature and reasonable control effort.
Surface curvature from integrability

We present a multiple illumination technique that directly recovers the viewer-centered curvature matrix up to a scalar factor, at each mutually illuminated point on a smooth object surface. This technique is completely independent of knowledge of incident illumination orientation, local surface orientation, or diffuse surface albedo. The cornerstone of this technique is the use of the integrability constraint which is a fundamental mathematical property of smooth surfaces. The integrability constraint allows the derivation of an equation at each object point, which is linear in terms of quantities involving the initially unknown parameters of incident illumination orientation. These quantities, which we call the gradient ratio constants, can be simultaneously solved for from five or more equations arising from the same number of object points. We show that deriving these gradient ratio constants provides just enough calibration information about incident illumination geometry to compute the viewer-centered curvature matrix at each object point, up to a scalar multiple. We demonstrate two important applications of this technique: segmentation of the object surface by sign of Gaussian curvature, and further segmentation of non-negative Gaussian curvature into convexity and concavity. >
Verifying performance characteristics of quantitative analytical systems: calibration verification, linearity, and analytical measurement range.

Context.—Both the regulations in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and the checklists of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Laboratory Accreditation Program require clinical laboratories to verify performance characteristics of quantitative test systems. Laboratories must verify performance claims when introducing an unmodified, US Food and Drug Administration–cleared or approved test system, and they must comply with requirements for periodic calibration and calibration verification for existing test systems. They must also periodically verify the analytical measurement range of many quantitative test systems. Objective.—To provide definitions for many of the terms used in these regulations, to describe a set of basic analyses that laboratories may adapt to demonstrate compliance with both CLIA and the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program checklists for performing calibration verification and for verifying the analytical measurement range of test systems, to review som...
High heritability of metabolomic profiles in families burdened with premature cardiovascular disease

Integration of genetic and metabolic profiling holds promise for providing insight into human disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is strongly heritable, but the heritability of metabolomic profiles has not been evaluated in humans. We performed quantitative mass spectrometry-based metabolic profiling in 117 individuals within eight multiplex families from the GENECARD study of premature CAD. Heritabilities were calculated using variance components. We found high heritabilities for amino acids (arginine, ornithine, alanine, proline, leucine/isoleucine, valine, glutamate/glutamine, phenylalanine and glycine; h2=0.33–0.80, P=0.005–1.9 × 10−16), free fatty acids (arachidonic, palmitic, linoleic; h2=0.48–0.59, P=0.002–0.00005) and acylcarnitines (h2=0.23–0.79, P=0.05–0.0000002). Principal components analysis was used to identify metabolite clusters. Reflecting individual metabolites, several components were heritable, including components comprised of ketones, β-hydroxybutyrate and C2-acylcarnitine (h2=0.61); short- and medium-chain acylcarnitines (h2=0.39); amino acids (h2=0.44); long-chain acylcarnitines (h2=0.39) and branched-chain amino acids (h2=0.27). We report a novel finding of high heritabilities of metabolites in premature CAD, establishing a possible genetic basis for these profiles. These results have implications for understanding CAD pathophysiology and genetics.
The Phase Transition between Chiral Nematic and Smectic A ∗ Liquid Crystals

In this paper we study the Landau-de Gennes free energy used to describe the transition between chiral nematic and smectic A liquid crystal phases. We consider the phenomenology of the transition and discuss the behavior of the material constants. Within the present mathematical framework, the physically observed growth behavior of the twist and bend Frank constants, K2 and K3 respectively, plays a major role in determining the transition regime. We show existence of minimizers in a large class of admissible fields. Then, under the hypothesis that K2 and K3 are large, we establish estimates for the transition regime separating the two phases. The work emphasizes the interplay between two competing effects: the layer formation of the smectic A phase and the twist tendency of the chiral nematic phase. Our discussion also illustrates the analogies as well as the discrepancies in modeling and behavior between smectic A* liquid crystals and superconducting materials described by the Ginzburg-Landau theory.
Evidence of Momentum Conservation at a Nonepitaxial Metal/Semiconductor Interface using Ballistic Electron Emission Microscopy.

Ballistic-Electron-Emission Microscopy (BEEM) spectroscopy has been performed on Au/Si(111) structures as a function of Au thickness and temperature. At 77 K a direct signature of parallel momentum conservation at the Au/Si interface is observed in the BEEM spectra. The variation in spectral shape with both Au thickness and temperature places restrictions on allowable values of inelastic and elastic mean-free paths in the metal, and also requires the presence of multiple electron passes within the Au layer. An independent indication of multiple reflections is directly observed in the attenuation of BEEM current with Au thickness.
Change in the menstrual period through reproductive life.

Periodogram analysis detected periodicity in records of menstrual onsets of 10 cases. Periodograms exhibted prominent peaks in the range from 24 to 31 days. Such peaks indicate periodic components in the record of onsets. The location of the peak gives the frequency of each component and the height of the peak gives the strength of that component i.e. the influence of that frequency in the record. For comparison simulated case histories were constructed in the 2 limits of a perfectly regular subject and of a subject whose menstrual intervals mixed randomly between 21-40 days. Focus here is on the question of whether these time series are stationary. A record was dividedd into time sections of various lengths and spectral analysis was performed for each section. The peaks of periodograms for different sections in the record of a particular subject vary both in position and prominence. A figure plots the time dependence of the dominant period and of the peak height. Age and gynecological age are indicated on the time scale. Each day of onset of menstrual flow is expressed in Julian day numbers astronomical days. Days are numbered sequentially allowing simple calculations of the elapsed time between any 2 events. Menstrual histories of 45 subjects were analyzed totaling 6606 menstrual onsets and 616 years. In general the dominant period had a decreasing trend and a tendency to change rhythmically. Some cases exhibited clearly sine-shaped curves suggesting that menstrual periodicity is frequency modulated. A figure illustrates the finding that there is a correlation between the average individual dominant period and the period of the modulating low frequency signal. There were indications of a link between sex of offspring and the change in period after delivery. Periodograms of menstruations were compared before concepation and after delivery. In 79% of cases with shortened dominant period the child was male. In 78% of cases with lengthened dominant period the baby was female. 82% of deliveries of boys were followed by speed up. The average change in the period was -1.5 days which is 5% of the average dominant period before conception. 75% of deliveries of girls were followed by slow down. The period increased by 1.6 days on the average which is 6% of the average dominant period before conception of a girl.
Construction of Microporous Materials from Molecular Building Blocks

The considerable importance of microporous solids such as zeolites in shape-selective catalysis, ion-exchange processes, and molecular sieving applications has inspired the recent extensive efforts to produce analogous materials that are based on metal sulfide,1 metal-organic,2 and organic3 frameworks. A wide variety of molecular building units such as inorganic clusters, metal-organic complexes, porphyrin, organic macrocyles, and cyclic peptides have been linked by either metal ligation or hydrogen bonding to yield diverse extended assemblies having open frameworks. The voids present within these frameworks are usually in the form of channels or chambers where a guest molecule that was introduced during the synthesis resides. At least three issues pose a challenge to those embarking on the designed synthesis of crystalline microporous materials of this kind. First, the large open space within the constructed framework is often found to be occupied by other frameworks that are copies of the original to give an interpenetrating framework structure leaving either little or no voided space in the crystal. Second, since most of the assembly reactions are performed at or near room temperature, the formation of the ultimate product in crystalline form is usually found to be more an art than a science. This is due to the absence of a temperature gradient that allows for slow nucleation and consequently single crystal formation. Third, attempts to evaluate the porosity in these materials by exchanging or decomposing the guest species have in most cases resulted in destruction of the assembled frameworks leading to nonporous solids. This chapter describes our recent research efforts to address these issues. The molecular building block approach for the achievement of these materials will be outlined.
Kinetics of slow thermal chlorination of hydrogen in nickel tubular flow reactors

The first reliable kinetic data and correlations yet reported were obtained for the thermal reaction of gaseous chlorine and hydrogen over a wide range of operationg conditions. Earlier data had been obtained in reactors that result in irreproducible data. The results of the present investigation clarify the reaction sequence that consists of both gas-phase and surface reactions.
Trophic interactions and direct physical effects control phytoplankton biomass and production in an estuary

The recent invasion of San Francisco Bay by the suspension-feeding clam Putamocorbula amurensis has provided an opportunity to document the ecological consequences of a major biological disturbance. Previous work over the last two decades has shown that phytoplankton biomass in the upper estuary is low (2-3 mg Chl a m-3) during seasonal periods of high river flow and short residence time, and it is usually high (peak > 30 mg Chl a m-3) during the summer-autumn seasons of low river flow and long residence time. However since P. amurensis became widespread and abundant in 1987, the summer phytoplankton biomass maximum has disappeared, presumably because of increased grazing pressure by this newly introduced species. For the period 1977-l 990, mean estimated primary production was only 39 g C mm2 yr-’ during years when bivalve suspension feeders were abundant (>2,000 mm2), compared to 106 g C m-2 yr-’ when bivalves were absent or present in low numbers. These observations support the hypothesis that seasonal and interannual fluctuations in estuarine phytoplankton biomass and primary production can be regulated jointly by direct physical effects (e.g. river-driven transport) and trophic interactions (episodes of enhanced grazing pressure by immigrant populations of benthic suspension feeders).
MODIS derived fine mode fraction characteristics of marine, dust, and anthropogenic aerosols over the ocean, constrained by GOCART, MOPITT, and TOMS

[1] One year (December 2003 to November 2004) of Terra Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS), and Measurement of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT) data over the open ocean are used in conjunction with the Goddard Chemistry Transport Model (GOCART) to characterize differing aerosol types as a function of satellite observable parameters. GOCART model output is used to select regions that are dominated (at least 80% of the total aerosol optical thickness from a single aerosol species) by anthropogenic (black carbon + organic carbon + sulfate), dust (DU) and sea salt regions (SS). Aerosol optical thickness (AOT) and fine mode fraction (FMF) retrieved from MODIS are averaged for each aerosol species region at 1 month intervals to examine the observational differences among each aerosol species. Anthropogenic (AN) aerosols are further separated into those produced primarily from biomass burning (BB) versus those from combustion and industrial pollution (PO). TOMS ultraviolet absorbing aerosol index (AI) in conjunction with MOPITT carbon monoxide (CO) data sets on Terra are used to contrast the differences between BB and PO aerosol properties. Annually averaged estimates for SS, DU, and AN MODIS FMF are 0.25 ± 0.07, 0.45 ± 0.05, and 0.84 ± 0.04, respectively, in agreement with or slightly lower than previous estimates. However, FMF values were observed to change substantially as a function of space and time as regions dominated by single aerosol types shrink, expand, and move around from month to month. The greatest variability in FMF was observed for SS and DU aerosols. SS are associated with regions of high near-surface wind speeds in the Southern Hemisphere, which have large temporal and spatial variations. Dust transport off of the Saharan Desert is maximized in the Northern Hemisphere summer, increasing the area of predominately dust aerosols. MODIS aerosol effective radius for each aerosol type also showed a similar trend with SS, DU, and AN values of 1.03, 0.68, and 0.32 μm. TOMS-AI values for DU exceeded SS and AN values up to 100% between April and October 2004 in association with the greatest dust concentrations in the North Atlantic. For BB and PO components of AN aerosols, no significant difference in MODIS FMF were observed; however, substantial differences in TOMS-AI and MOPITT values were observed between BB and PO aerosols, especially between June and November. For both TOMS-AI and MOPITT CO, BB aerosols are generally associated with higher values than are PO aerosols. The use of GOCART to constrain regions where a dominant aerosol species exists has allowed a comprehensive analysis of the satellite observed properties of various aerosol species.
Taking Care of Yourself as a Leader

Abstract Being a nursing leader includes attending to a variety of priorities and tasks all simultaneously. In the midst of these, it is critical to develop rewarding relationships with department employees as a way of enhancing staff retention. This article provides multiple opportunities to recognize and develop habits in your work life focused at creating personal balance. This balance can lead to greater employee satisfaction and improved retention as well as to your increased personal job satisfaction. In addition, this can strengthen leadership performance by facilitating decision making as a nonanxious presence in each leadership situation, at work and at home.
A transcriptional network associated with natural variation in Drosophila aggressive behavior

Background Aggressive behavior is an important component of fitness in most animals. Aggressive behavior is genetically complex, with natural variation attributable to multiple segregating loci with allelic effects that are sensitive to the physical and social environment. However, we know little about the genes and genetic networks affecting natural variation in aggressive behavior. Populations of Drosophila melanogaster harbor quantitative genetic variation in aggressive behavior, providing an excellent model system for dissecting the genetic basis of naturally occurring variation in aggression.
A Communication Framework for Dialysis Decision-Making for Frail Elderly Patients

Frail elderly patients with advanced kidney disease experience many of the burdens associated with dialysis. Although these patients constitute the fastest-growing population starting dialysis, they often suffer loss of functional status, impaired quality of life, and increased mortality after dialysis initiation. Nephrology clinicians face the challenges of helping patients decide if the potential benefits of dialysis outweigh the risks and preparing such patients for future setbacks. A communication framework for dialysis decision-making that aligns treatment choices with patient goals and values is presented. The role of uncertainty is highlighted, and the concept of a goal-directed care plan is introduced. This plan incorporates a time-limited trial that promotes frequent opportunities for reassessment. Using the communication skills presented, the clinician can prepare and guide patients for the dialysis trajectory as it unfolds.
Incidence of Herpes Zoster, Before and After Varicella-Vaccination-Associated Decreases in the Incidence of Varicella, 1992–2002

Background. Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes varicella and, later in the life of the host, may reactivate to cause herpes zoster (HZ). Because it is hypothesized that exposure to varicella may boost immunity to latent VZV, the vaccination-associated decrease in varicella disease has led some to suggest that the incidence of HZ might increase. We assessed the impact that varicella vaccination has on the incidence of varicella and of HZ. Methods. Codes for cases of varicella and of HZ in an HMO were determined in automated databases of inpatients and outpatients, on the basis of the Ninth Revision of the International Classification of Diseases. We calculated the incidence, during 1992-2002, of varicella and of HZ. Results. The incidence of HZ remained stable as the incidence of varicella decreased. Age-adjusted and -specific annual incidence rates of varicella decreased steadily, starting with 1999. The age-adjusted rates decreased from 2.63 cases/1000 person-years during 1995 to 0.92 cases/1000 person-years during 2002; among children 1-4 years old, there was a 75% decrease between 1992-1996 and 2002. Age-adjusted and -specific annual incidence rates of HZ fluctuated slightly over time; the age-adjusted rate was highest, at 4.05 cases/1000 person-years, in 1992, and was 3.71 cases/1000 person-years in 2002. Conclusions. Our findings revealed that the vaccination-associated decrease in varicella disease did not result in an increase in the incidence of HZ. These early findings will have to be confirmed as the incidence of varicella disease continues to decrease.
An N-Terminal Amphipathic Helix in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) NS4B Mediates Membrane Association, Correct Localization of Replication Complex Proteins, and HCV RNA Replication

Like other positive-strand RNA viruses, hepatitis C virus (HCV) is believed to replicate its RNA in association with host cell cytoplasmic membranes. Because of its association with such membranes, NS4B, one of the virus's nonstructural proteins, may play an important role in this process, although the mechanistic details are not well understood. We identified a putative N-terminal amphipathic helix (AH) in NS4B that mediates membrane association. Introduction of site-directed mutations designed to disrupt the hydrophobic face of the AH abolishes the AH's ability to mediate membrane association. An AH in NS4B is conserved across HCV isolates. Completely disrupting the amphipathic nature of NS4B's N-terminal helix abolished HCV RNA replication, whereas partial disruption resulted in an intermediate level of replication. Finally, immunofluorescence studies revealed that HCV replication complex components were mislocalized in the AH-disrupted mutant. These results identify a key membrane-targeting domain which can form the basis for developing novel antiviral strategies.
Voltammetric detection of lead(II) and mercury(II) using a carbon paste electrode modified with thiol self-assembled monolayer on mesoporous silica (SAMMS).

The anodic stripping voltammetry at a carbon paste electrode modified with thiol terminated self-assembled monolayer on mesoporous silica (SH-SAMMS) provides a new sensor for simultaneous detection of lead (Pb2+) and mercury (Hg2+) in aqueous solutions. The overall analysis involved a two-step procedure: an accumulation step at open circuit, followed by medium exchange to a pure electrolyte solution for the stripping analysis. Factors affecting the performance of the SH-SAMMS modified electrodes were investigated, including electrode activation and regeneration, electrode composition, preconcentration time, electrolysis time, and composition of electrolysis and stripping media. The most sensitive and reliable electrode contained 20% SH-SAMMS and 80% carbon paste. The optimal operating conditions were a sequence with a 2 min preconcentration period, then a 60 s electrolysis period of the preconcentrated species in 0.2 M nitric acid, followed by square wave anodic stripping voltammetry from −1.0 V to 0.6 V in 0.2 M nitric acid. The areas of the peak responses were linear with respect to metal ion concentrations in the ranges of 10–1500 ppb Pb2+ and 20–1600 ppb Hg2+. The detection limits for Pb2+ and Hg2+ were 0.5 ppb Pb2+ and 3 ppb Hg2+ after a 20 min preconcentration period.
The inflammatory response seen when human omental adipose tissue explants are incubated in primary culture is not dependent upon albumin and is primarily in the nonfat cells.

The present studies were designed to investigate the changes in gene expression during in vitro incubation of human visceral omental adipose tissue explants as well as fat cells and nonfat cells derived from omental fat. Adipose tissue was obtained from extremely obese women undergoing bariatric surgery. Explants of the tissue as well as fat cells and the nonfat cells derived by digestion with collagenase were incubated for 20 minutes to 48 h. The expression of interleukin 1β [IL-1β], tumor necrosis factor α [TNFα], interleukin 8 [IL-8], NFκB1p50 subunit, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α [HIF1α], omentin/intelectin, and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 [11β-HSD1] mRNA were measured by qPCR as well as the release of IL-8 and TNFα. There was an inflammatory response at 2 h in explants of omental adipose tissue that was reduced but not abolished in the absence of albumin from the incubation buffer for IL-8, IL-1β and TNFα. There was also an inflammatory response with regard to upregulation of HIF1α and NFκB1 gene expression that was unaffected whether albumin was present or absent from the medium. In the nonfat cells derived by a 2 h collagenase digestion of omental fat there was an inflammatory response comparable but not greater than that seen in tissue. The exception was HIF1α where the marked increase in gene expression was primarily seen in intact tissue. The inflammatory response was not seen with respect to omentin/intelectin. Over a subsequent 48 h incubation there was a marked increase in IL-8 mRNA expression and IL-8 release in adipose tissue explants that was also seen to the same extent in the nonfat cells incubated in the absence of fat cells. The marked inflammatory response seen when human omental adipose tissue is incubated in vitro is reduced but not abolished in the presence of albumin with respect to IL-1β, TNFα, IL-8, and is primarily in the nonfat cells of adipose tissue.
Crystallization and nanoindentation behavior of a bulk Zr–Al–Ti–Cu–Ni amorphous alloy

The crystallization and nanoindentation behavior of a Zr–10Al–5Ti–17.9Cu–14.6Ni (at.%) bulk amorphous alloy (BAA) were studied. Resulting from the kinetic nature of phase transformation in multicomponent alloys, the crystallization path is complex. Despite the complexity of different crystallization paths, the main final crystallized product in the Zr-based BAA is Zr2Cu. Young’s modulus and hardness of the BAA were found to increase with an increase in annealing temperature. The observed mechanical properties were correlated with the microstructure of the material. Also, in the present paper, both the observed crystallization and nanoindentation behavior are compared with existing data. Zr-based BAAs exhibit a ratio of hardness to Young’s modulus (H/E ratio) of about 1/10, suggesting the interatomic bonding in the alloys is close to being covalent.
The FANCJ/MutLα interaction is required for correction of the cross-link response in FA-J cells

FANCJ also called BACH1/BRIP1 was first linked to hereditary breast cancer through its direct interaction with BRCA1. FANCJ was also recently identified as a Fanconi anemia (FA) gene product, establishing FANCJ as an essential tumor suppressor. Similar to other FA cells, FANCJ-null (FA-J) cells accumulate 4N DNA content in response to DNA interstrand crosslinks (ICLs). This accumulation is corrected by reintroduction of wild-type FANCJ. Here, we show that FANCJ interacts with the mismatch repair complex MutLα, composed of PMS2 and MLH1. Specifically, FANCJ directly interacts with MLH1 independent of BRCA1, through its helicase domain. Genetic studies reveal that FANCJ helicase activity and MLH1 binding, but not BRCA1 binding, are essential to correct the FA-J cells' ICL-induced 4N DNA accumulation and sensitivity to ICLs. These results suggest that the FANCJ/MutLα interaction, but not FANCJ/BRCA1 interaction, is essential for establishment of a normal ICL-induced response. The functional role of the FANCJ/MutLα complex demonstrates a novel link between FA and MMR, and predicts a broader role for FANCJ in DNA damage signaling independent of BRCA1.
Dual Protease Inhibitor Therapy in HIV-Infected Patients: Pharmacologic Rationale and Clinical Benefits

HIV protease inhibitors, as components of combination antiretroviral drug regimens, have substantially reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with HIV infection. They selectively block the action of the virus-encoded protease and stop the virus from replicating. In general, these drugs have poor systemic bioavailability and must be dosed with respect to meals for optimal absorption. Protease inhibitor–containing regimens require ingestion of a large number of capsules, are costly, and produce or are susceptible to metabolic drug interactions. Simultaneous administration of two protease inhibitors takes advantage of beneficial pharmacokinetic interactions and may circumvent many of the drugs’ undesirable pharmacologic properties. For example, ritonavir increases saquinavir concentrations at steady state by up to 30-fold, allowing reduction of saquinavir dose and dosing frequency. Ritonavir decreases the systemic clearance of indinavir and overcomes the deleterious effect of food on indinavir bioava...
A new analysis of beam waveguide antennas considering the presence of the metal enclosure

Large beam-waveguide (BWG)-type ground station antennas are generally designed using analysis which ignores the presence of the metallic tube enclosing the BWG mirrors. The common analysis approaches are physical optics and Gaussian mode analyses. The weakness of these analyses is that they do not shed any light on the effect of the metal tube. A BWG analysis which considers the presence of the metal tube is presented. Numerical results of a two-mirror system using the new analysis are compared with experiments which have verified the analysis. >
Sensitivities in Computational Methods for Optimal Flow Control

Flow optimization and control problems have the typical structure of all such problems. Their description involves
Outpatient Clinic Identification of Trauma Symptoms in Children in Foster Care

As understanding of the impact of trauma on children has grown, there has been increasing interest in the use of screening the medical setting to identify which children at risk may be symptomatic. This study was undertaken to determine whether the use of a trauma assessment tool to screen for trauma symptoms in the setting of a foster care clinic was feasible and more sensitive than non-standardized approaches in the context of outpatient primary care. Using a chart review of trauma symptom identification before and after the implementation of the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children (TSC-C) and the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Young Children (TSC-YC), validated trauma assessment tools, we looked at the feasibility of use of this tool and likelihood of trauma symptom identification. 73 % (n = 204) of eligible patients had a trauma screening tool in the medical record following the introduction of the use of the TSC. Detection of trauma symptoms was higher in the screening period than in the baseline period for the entire population (78 vs. 46 %, p < 0.0001), and trauma symptoms were identified with more specificity following the introduction of, and likely due to, formal trauma screening. However, there were limitations as to feasibility in the outpatient medical clinic. In conclusion, the use of the TSC-C and TSC-YC in the setting of an outpatient foster care evaluation clinic increased rates and precision of identification of trauma symptoms, but had limitations to its feasibility of use in the outpatient clinic setting.
Trinity, incarnation and time: a restatement of the doctrine of God in conversation with Robert Jenson

This article engages Robert W. Jenson on the question of the relation between the immanent Trinity and the person Jesus of Nazareth and proposes a restatement of the doctrine of God that takes into account his concerns. I note that many of the criticisms levelled against Jenson are contradictory and offer instead a rearticulation of Thomas Aquinas's doctrine of God, refracted through the theology of Hans Urs von Balthasar, as a more viable mode of engaging Jenson's ideas. In particular, I suggest an analogia temporalis rooted in the divine processions to account for the relationship between time and eternity, thereby showing how Thomas's theology can both accommodate and benefit from many of Jenson's insights, while also avoiding the more serious charges levelled against him.
Patterns of Pain Medication Use During Last Months of Life in HIV-Infected Populations The Experience of an Academic Outpatient Clinic

Introduction:This article describes the patterns of use of pain medicines of HIV-infected patients during last months of life in an HIV university-affiliated outpatient clinic.Methods:We retrospectively reviewed our databases and identified patients who died over the last 12 months in our clinic. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory information were abstracted.Results:A total of 41 patients died in our HIV outpatient clinic in a period of 12 months. Opioid analgesics were prescribed for 21 (51%) patients, with 10 (48%) of these patients prescribed short-acting opioid analgesics alone, In all, 11 patients (52%) were on a short-acting and long-acting opioid combination, and 30 (73%) patients experienced pain that was not adequately controlled.Discussion:Pain control during the last months of life for this population appears to be suboptimal. Better strategies are needed.
STS RISK SCORE AS PREDICTOR OF 30-DAY MORTALITY IN TRANSCATHETER VERSUS SURGICAL AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT

The Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS) risk model was designed to predict operative morbidity and mortality after adult cardiac surgery. The STS score now plays an important role in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The STS score's validity for predicting TAVR mortality, however, has not
Evaluation of Several Routes to Advanced Pregabalin Intermediates: Synthesis and Enantioselective Enzymatic Reduction Using Ene-Reductases

This publication describes the evaluation of four synthetic routes to the advanced pregabalin (Lyrica) intermediate 7. Asymmetric reduction of (E)-7 with an ene-reductase (OPR1 from Lycopersicon esculentum) gave a saturated cyanoester intermediate 5 with the desired S stereocenter in >99% ee. OPR1 also catalyzed the reduction of (Z)-7 to (S)-5, but with lower conversion and selectivity.
Molecular studies of phenotype variation in canine RPGR-XLPRA1

Purpose Canine X-linked progressive retinal atrophy 1 (XLPRA1) caused by a mutation in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) GTPase regulator (RPGR) exon ORF15 showed significant variability in disease onset in a colony of dogs that all inherited the same mutant X chromosome. Defective protein trafficking has been detected in XLPRA1 before any discernible degeneration of the photoreceptors. We hypothesized that the severity of the photoreceptor degeneration in affected dogs may be associated with defects in genes involved in ciliary trafficking. To this end, we examined six genes as potential disease modifiers. We also examined the expression levels of 24 genes involved in ciliary trafficking (seven), visual pathway (five), neuronal maintenance genes (six), and cellular stress response (six) to evaluate their possible involvement in early stages of the disease.
Risk factors of pulmoary fungal infection in pediatric intensive care unit and its counteractive strategy

Objectives To analyze the risk factors of pulmonary fungal infection in patients treated in pediatric intensive care unit(PICU), and discuss the strategy of the prevention and treatment to the disease. Methods A total of 1057 patients admitted to PICU from January 2003 to February 2007 were investigated retrospectively. The incidence of pulmonary fungal infection,the risk factors of pulmonary fungal infection,characteristics of pathogens and preventive measures,treatment and outcome were analyzed. Results Forty-eight patients got pulmonary fungal infection,accounted for 4.54% of the total patients in PICU during the same periods. Risk factors included long time hospitalization,repeated hospitalization during a short period,receipt of broad-spectrum antibiotics or corticoid or immunosuppressant,application of mechanical ventilation and stercoraceous drowning. The pathogenic fungi included Candida albicans,Candida glabrata,Candida tropicalis,Candida krucei,Aspergillus and Apophysomyces. With antifungal therapy,28 patients were cured,9 were relieved,10 died and 1 gave up. Conclusions Selecting antibiotics Appropriately,using corticoids carefully,protective measures such as strengthening antisepsis and isolation are critical to reduce pulmonary fungal infection in PICU. Recognizing the predisposing factors,making diagnosis early,choosing antifungal drugs correctly are critical for successful treatment of pediatric patients with pulmonary fungal infection.