cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Backbone Degradable Multiblock N-(2-Hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide Copolymer Conjugates via Reversible Addition−Fragmentation Chain Transfer Polymerization and Thiol−ene Coupling Reaction

Telechelic water-soluble HPMA copolymers and HPMA copolymer−doxorubicin (DOX) conjugates have been synthesized by RAFT polymerization mediated by a new bifunctional chain transfer agent (CTA) that contains an enzymatically degradable oligopeptide sequence. Postpolymerization aminolysis followed by chain extension with a bis-maleimide resulted in linear high molecular weight multiblock HPMA copolymer conjugates. These polymers are enzymatically degradable; in addition to releasing the drug (DOX), the degradation of the polymer backbone resulted in products with molecular weights similar to the starting material and below the renal threshold. The new multiblock HPMA copolymers hold potential as new carriers of anticancer drugs.
Increased serotonin turnover in the acutely morphine treated rat.

Abstract Acute administration of morphine in the rat caused an increase in brain 5-HIAA levels with no alteration of brain 5-HT levels. After probenecid, 5-HIAA levels increased to a greater extent in morphine-treated rats than in saline control animals. Furthermore, morphine caused an increase in the rate of rise of brain 5-HT levels following pargyline administration. The calculated turnover rate in saline rats was 1.42 nmol/gm/hr as compared with 1.75 nmol/gm/hr in morphine-treated animals. We conclude that a single injection of morphine results in a small but significant increase in brain 5-HT turnover in the rat.
An innexin-dependent cell network establishes left-right neuronal asymmetry in C. elegans.

SUMMARY Gap junctions are widespread in immature neuronal circuits, but their functional significance is poorly understood. We show here that a transient network formed by the innexin gapjunction protein NSY-5 coordinates left-right asymmetry in the developing nervous system of Caenorhabditis elegans. nsy-5 is required for the left and right AWC olfactory neurons to establish stochastic, asymmetric patterns of gene expression during embryogenesis. nsy-5dependent gap junctions in the embryo transiently connect the AWC cell bodies with those of numerous other neurons. Both AWCs and several other classes of nsy-5-expressing neurons participate in signaling that coordinates left-right AWC asymmetry. The right AWC can respond to nsy-5 directly, but the left AWC requires nsy-5 function in multiple cells of the network. NSY-5 forms hemichannels and intercellular gap-junction channels in Xenopus oocytes, consistent with a combination of cellintrinsic and network functions. These results provide insight into gap-junction activity in developing circuits.
A restrictive transfusion strategy reduced 45-day mortality in patients with acute upper GI bleeding

Source Citation Villanueva C, Colomo A, Bosch A, et al. Transfusion strategies for acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. N Engl J Med. 2013;368:11-21. 23281973
The classification and treatment of antibody-mediated renal allograft injury: where do we stand?

Since the acceptance of the detection of C4d in allografts as a reliable tool to mark a humoral alloresponse, de novo antibody-induced graft injury has attracted much attention. Antibodies and B cells are the new frontier in transplantation. At this juncture carefully designed studies are critical in order to gain solid diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic knowledge about the role of antibodies in graft injury and to avoid any confusion and misconception. One prerequisite is the strict adherence to refined classification systems of renal transplant rejection that carefully split and categorize different phenotypes of humoral mediated graft damage and ideally also include information on anti-donor antibody specificity and titers. Sun and colleagues follow this concept and provide evidence that mixed cellular and antibody-mediated graft rejection can respond favorably to intensified immunosuppression with tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. What will the future bring to treat rejection episodes with a dominant, co-dominant, or minor antibody reponse?
Morphological functions of gibberellins in leptosporangiate fern gametophytes: insights into the evolution of form and gender expression

In addition to genetic load, the induction of maleness in leptosporangiate gametophytes by the pheromone antheridiogen may facilitate rates of outcrossing similar to those found in angiosperms. The antheridiogens that have been chemically identified are similar to gibberellins and probably evolved from this common plant hormone. The purposes of this study were to determine the functions of endogenous gibberellins in morphological development and gender expression in leptosporangiate fern gametophytes and to elucidate how antheridiogens may have evolved from gibberellin precursors. We grew gametophytes of Osmunda regalis and Athyrium filix-femina on nutrient agar enriched with APOGEE, which blocks gibberellin synthesis. Osmunda regalis is a member of Osmundaceae, the only family in Osmundales, the sister group of all remaining extant leptosporangiate ferns. This family possesses a male-first gender in isolation and lacks any known antheridiogen systems. In contrast, A. filix-femina is a member of a derived family, Woodsiaceae, which possesses antheridiogen systems. Disruption of gibberellin synthesis retarded notch development and expression of both maleness and femaleness (i.e. gender status) in both species. On the basis of these results, we offer a simple model of gametophyte evolution driven by gender-based fitness gain curves and the influence of exogenous gibberellins. © 2009 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2009, 159, 599–615.
A Control-Volume Model of the Compressible Euler Equations with a Vertical Lagrangian Coordinate

AbstractAccurate and stable numerical discretization of the equations for the nonhydrostatic atmosphere is required, for example, to resolve interactions between clouds and aerosols in the atmosphere. Here the authors present a modification of the hydrostatic control-volume approach for solving the nonhydrostatic Euler equations with a Lagrangian vertical coordinate. A scheme with low numerical diffusion is achieved by introducing a low Mach number approximate Riemann solver (LMARS) for atmospheric flows. LMARS is a flexible way to ensure stability for finite-volume numerical schemes in both Eulerian and vertical Lagrangian configurations. This new approach is validated on test cases using a 2D (x–z) configuration.
The measurement of Human Life History strategy

This retrospective essay appraises J. Philippe Rushton’s application of life history to understanding the covariation among human traits in light of subsequent developments in the measurement and latent structure of Human Life History, covitality, and personality. We conclude that Rushton should be recognized for having initiated a theoretically and empirically highly fertile paradigm in human individual differences research.
Determination of sea ice parameters with the NIMBUS 7 SMMR

A method of determining sea ice parameters using Nimbus 7 polarized multispectral radiance data obtained with the Nimbus 7 Scanning Multichannel Microwave Radiometer (SMMR) is presented. Observed radiances from selected areas in the Arctic region for the period February 3-7, 1979 were used in computing algorithm coefficients. Polar maps of sea ice concentration, multiyear fraction, and ice temperature are illustrated for this period. The variation of the mean and standard deviation of ice concentration and multiyear ice fraction for a region of perennial ice cover over the first 11 months of SMMR operation is also presented. Comparisons are made between the calculated sea ice parameters and information obtained from previous studies using aircraft, submarine and surface observations. The absolute accuracy of the SMMR parameters remains uncertain.
Mechanisms of nanotoxicity: generation of reactive oxygen species.

Nanotechnology is a rapidly developing field in the 21st century, and the commercial use of nanomaterials for novel applications is increasing exponentially. To date, the scientific basis for the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of most manufactured nanomaterials are not understood. The mechanisms underlying the toxicity of nanomaterials have recently been studied intensively. An important mechanism of nanotoxicity is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Overproduction of ROS can induce oxidative stress, resulting in cells failing to maintain normal physiological redox-regulated functions. This in turn leads to DNA damage, unregulated cell signaling, change in cell motility, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and cancer initiation. There are critical determinants that can affect the generation of ROS. These critical determinants, discussed briefly here, include: size, shape, particle surface, surface positive charges, surface-containing groups, particle dissolution, metal ion release from nanometals and nanometal oxides, UV light activation, aggregation, mode of interaction with cells, inflammation, and pH of the medium.
Shallow-water reverberation level: measurement technique and initial reference values

A quality database of reverberation is absolutely essential if one is to understand the shallow-water reverberation problem. However, to get wideband reverberation levels (RL) simultaneously for both short and long ranges at low- and mid-frequencies is a delicate task that can be subject to errors. This paper introduces a simple method to get RL for the Asian Sea International Acoustics Experiment in the East China Sea (ASIAEX01). Special attention is paid to the measurements of the RL at short- and mid-ranges. With this method, one does not need to accurately calibrate hydrophones and measurement systems, or to measure absolute source level (SL). It can avoid signal overflow and saturation problems caused by powerful sound sources. The RL (relative to SL) at 1 s (or at 2 s) after an explosive source is detonated is defined as the initial reference reverberation level (IRRL). The IRRLs from four sites with different sandy sediments and different water depths have been given as a function of frequency in the 150-2500 Hz range. A mathematical model gives a physical explanation of the measured IRRL data. The resultant RL and IRRL may offer some reference values for the design of reverberation measurements or numerical simulations of shallow-water reverberation and bottom scattering
Pediatric ICD utilization in the United States from 1997 to 2006

Background Indications for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation in children have expanded, yet pediatric population-based data on ICD implantation are lacking. Objective We characterized trends in pediatric ICD use in the United States from 1997 to 2006. Methods We examined national hospital administrative data from the 1997, 2000, 2003, and 2006 Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) for new ICD implants in patients younger than 18 years of age and characterized patients, hospitals, and hospitalization-related outcomes. Results The number of pediatric ICD implants per year increased 3-fold (from 130 in 1997 to 396 in 2006, P = .003). Implants with a concomitant diagnosis of life-threatening arrhythmia decreased from 77% to 45% (P = .001). The average age decreased from 13.6 to 12.2 years (P = .01), and the percentage of patients younger than 5 years of age tended to increase (up to 10%, P = .09). In 2006, the number of implants per center ranged from 1 to 24 (median 3). Over time, the complication rate tended to decrease (from 16 to 10%, P = .07). Complication rate was not related to a diagnosis of congenital heart disease, age, or implant volume. Conclusion ICD use increased dramatically in children from 1997 to 2006, although implantation declined in patients with a concomitant diagnosis of life-threatening arrhythmia (those likely to undergo implantation for secondary prevention). The complication rate tended to decrease overall. Each center implants relatively few ICDs per year, which may have implications for competency and training.
A new imperative for improving management of large marine ecosystems

Continued over-fishing in the face of scientific warnings, fishing down food webs, destruction ofhabitat, and accelerated pollution loading—especially nitrogen export—have resulted in significant degradation to coastal and marine ecosystems ofboth rich and poor nations. Fragmentation among institutions, international agencies, and disciplines, lack of cooperation among nations sharing marine ecosystems, and weak national policies, legislation, and enforcement all contribute to the need for a new imperative for adopting ecosystem-based approaches to managing human activities in these systems in order to avoid serious social and economic disruption. The global environment facility (GEF) has been approached by developing countries in overwhelming numbers for assistance in securing the futures of their shared large marine ecosystems (LMEs). This paper describes GEF supported processes being used to assist them in adopting a science-driven, ecosystem-based approach to the management of human activities affecting coastal and marine ecosystems and linked freshwater basins. At risk are renewable goods and services valued at $10.6 trillion per year. A total of10 LME projects involving 72 countries have been approved by the GEF Council, and another 7 LMEs involving 54 countries have GEF international waters projects under preparation. A five-module assessment and management methodology is being tested that moves the countries toward adopting practical joint governance institutions through placebased management. This LME approach engages stakeholders, fosters the participation of the science community, and leads to the development ofadaptive management institutions. Comprehensive initiatives in four LMEs are described. The importance is underscored for establishing and coordinating partnerships between the North and South for specific LMEs and their linked watersheds. These coordinated North–South partnerships significantly augment catalytic interventions made by the GEF leading to reforms and investments that are helping make the transition to sustainable development. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.
RSK2 mediates NF-κB activity through the phosphorylation of IκBα in the TNF-R1 pathway

The ribosomal S6 kinase 2 (RSK2) is a well-known serine/threonine kinase and a member of the p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (p90RSK) family of proteins. It is activated downstream of the MEK/ERKs cascade by mitogenic stimuli such as EGF or TPA. Here, we show that RSK2 is activated by treatment with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and directly phosphorylates IκBα at Ser-32, leading to IκBα degradation. The phosphorylation of IκBα promotes the activation and translocation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunits p65 and p50 to the nucleus. The net result is an increased NF-κB activity, which serves as a mechanism for RSK2 blockade of TNF-α-induced apoptosis and enhanced cell survival.—Peng, C., Cho, Y.-Y., Zhu, F., Xu, Y.-M., Wen, W., Ma, W.-Y., Bode, A. M., Dong, Z. RSK2 mediates NF-κB activity through the phosphorylation of IκBα in the TNF-R1 pathway.
Triton X nonionic surfactants reversibly inhibit the EDTAKCl ATPase activity of myosin

Abstract The nonionic octylphenoxy polyethoxy series of surfactants, Triton X, reversibly inhibited the EDTA KCl ATPase activity of purified rabbit skeletal muscle myosin at concentrations at or below their reported critical micelle concentrations. The maximum degree of enzyme inhibition increased with ethoxy content to 88% (with Triton X 102 average ethoxy content, 12.5 per molecule). The results suggest that binding of the surfactant to the myosin molecule occurs below the critical micelle concentrations and that the hydrophilic ethoxy chain forms a diffusion barrier against approach of ATP to the enzyme's active site. This model has implications for the organization of myosin in the plasma membrane of phagocytes.
Modeling of Tip-Cantilever Dynamics in Atomic Force Microscopy

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is commonly used for atomic and nanoscale surface measurements. Two operational modes of AFM exist: static mode and dynamic mode. In dynamic AFM mode, a cantilever is driven to vibrate by its holder or the sample. The changes of cantilever vibration parameters (amplitude, resonance frequency, and phase angle) due to tip-sample interaction are used to reveal surface properties. Analytical and numerical models that can accurately simulate surface-coupled cantilever dynamics are essential for explaining AFM scanning images and evaluating the sample’s material properties. In this chapter, the existing dynamic modes of AFM are categorized in terms of cantilever deflection and excitation mechanism. Cantilever models for cantilever response simulation are summarized. Using these models, the important relations of cantilever frequency shift, vibration amplitude and phase angle with tip-sample interaction in various dynamic modes are derived, with an emphasis on newly-developed torsional resonance (TR) mode and lateral excitation (LE) mode. Some specific issues, such as the excitation of higher-order vibration modes in TappingMode (TM), the effects of tip eccentricity on cantilever responses in TR and LE modes, and how the cantilever dynamics affects the atomic-scale topographic and friction maps obtained in friction force microscopy (FFM) measurements, are investigated. Based on the derived relations between cantilever responses and tip-sample interaction, methods for quantitative evaluation of the sample’s mechanical parameters are described.
A joint resource allocation-channel coding design based on distributed source coding

Wireless sensor networks WSNs have found a wide variety of applications recently. However, the challenges in WSNs still remain in improving the sensor energy efficiency and information quality distortion reduction of the sensing data transmissions. In this paper, we propose a novel cross-layer design of resource allocation and channel coding to protect distributed source coding DSC-based data transmission. Resource allocation strategies include rate adaptation and automatic repeat-request retransmissions. Our proposed joint design of resource allocation, channel coding, and DSC can improve the network energy efficiency and information quality while meeting the data transmission latency requirements. Further, we investigate how the resource allocation enables the network to achieve unequal error protection among correlated DSC streams. Our simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed joint design significantly improves the DSC-based data transmission quality and the network energy efficiency. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward a national information system for social science data files

Despite a breakthrough in library cataloging of files of machine-readable social science data (directions are expected in the next Anglo-American Cataloging Rules), the U.S. system for delivering information about data files still needs strengthening. While descriptive cataloging of locally held files by research libraries should prove helpful, suppliers' restrictions on “rediffusion” of data reduce the value of a national union catalog. Subject cataloging is also a problem, although a new form heading for data files would improve the usefulness of the Library of Congress Subject Headings. The greatest improvement would be inclusion of abstracts and indexing of the files in a national bibliographic service with on-line search capability, especially one that could provide the codebooks required by those wanting to reuse others' data. With NTIS furnishing a prototype, ERIC is here proposed as a model of what is needed. ERIC has many desirable features as a “data information system” that would not disrupt present economic arrangements for delivering the files themselves.
Point defect characterization in CdZnTe

Measurements of the defect levels and performance testing of CdZnTe detectors were performed by means of Current Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (I-DLTS), Transient Charge Technique (TCT), Current versus Voltage measurements (I–V), and gamma-ray spectroscopy. CdZnTe crystals were acquired from different commercial vendors and characterized for their point defects. I-DLTS studies included measurements of defect parameters such as energy levels in the band gap, carrier capture cross sections, and defect densities. The induced current due to laser-generated carriers was measured using TCT. The data were used to determine the transport properties of the detectors under study. A good correlation was found between the point defects in the detectors and their performance.
The role of vacancy defects and holes in the fracture of carbon nanotubes

We present quantum mechanical calculations using density functional theory and semiempirical methods, and molecular mechanics (MM) calculations with a Tersoff–Brenner potential that explore the role of vacancy defects in the fracture of carbon nanotubes under axial tension. These methods show reasonable agreement, although the MM scheme systematically underestimates fracture strengths. One- and two-atom vacancy defects are observed to reduce failure stresses by as much as 26% and markedly reduce failure strains. Large holes – such as might be introduced via oxidative purification processes – greatly reduce strength, and this provides an explanation for the extant theoretical–experimental discrepancies. 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.
The Evolution of Supply-Chain-Management Models and Practice at Hewlett-Packard

Late in the 1980s, Hewlett-Packard HP faced inventories mounting into the billions of dollars and alarming customer dissatisfaction with its order fulfillment process. HP produces computation and measurement products whose supply chains include manufacturing integrated circuits, board assembly, final assembly, and delivery to customers. To reduce inventory and improve order fulfillment, HP called on an internal team of industrial engineers and management scientists augmented by academic collaboration. The team used an iterative process, enriched by the interaction of model development and application. HP reaped benefits well beyond its manufacturing operations, extending to diverse functions throughout the organization. Similarly, the academic partners have infused their research with real-life experience. The supply-chain methodology is now mature, and HP is transferring the technology into the product divisions.
Amenability, Poincaré Series and Quasiconformal Maps

Any coveringY→X of a hyperbolic Riemann surfaceX of finite area determines an inclusion of Teichmuller spaces Teich(X)↪Teich(Y). We show this map is an isometry for the Teichmuller metric if the covering isamenable, and contracting otherwise. In particular, we establish ‖Θ‖<1 for classical Poincare series (Kra's ‘Theta conjecture’).
The use of ethnically specific norms for ventilatory function in African-American and white populations

Background In the USA, different standards are usually set for spirometric values in African-American and white populations. It is unclear to what extent the lower lung function found in African-Americans is 'normal' in the sense of having no adverse consequences. Methods African-American and white participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) limited access data set, from four communities in the USA had spirometric testing at baseline beginning in 1986 and were followed up to assess survival to the end of 2002. Results Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV(1)) and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) were lower in the African-American than the white sample both for men and women and adjustment for potential confounders had little effect on the estimated difference {difference in FVC after adjustment: men, -0.68 l [95% confidence interval (95% CI) -0.75 to -0.61]; women, -0.41 l (95%CI -0.45 to -0.36)}. The FEV(1)/FVC ratio was slightly greater among African-American than white participants [difference: men, 1.5% (95%CI 0.7-2.1); women, 1.7% (95%CI 1.1-2.2)]. After adjustment for age and height, survival was similar in each ethnic group for any given level of FVC before and after adjustment for potential confounders. The hazard ratio for African-American compared with white participants was 1.24 for men (95% CI 0.91-1.69) and 0.96 for women (95% CI 0.66-1.38). Conclusions A given FVC has the same prognostic significance for 'normal' African-American and white participants. It is inappropriate to use ethnic norms when assessing prognosis.
Diet Quality and Food Limitation Affect the Dynamics of Body Composition and Digestive Organs in a Migratory Songbird (Zonotrichia Albicollis)

Abstract Migrating songbirds interrupt their feeding to fly between stopover sites that may vary appreciably in diet quality. We studied the effects of fasting and food restriction on body composition and digestive organs in a migratory songbird and how these effects interacted with diet quality to influence the rate of recovery of nutrient reserves. Food limitation caused white‐throated sparrows to reduce both lean and fat reserves, with about 20% of the decline in lean mass represented by a decline in stomach, small intestine, and liver. During refeeding on diets similar in nutrient composition to either grain or fruit, food‐limited grain‐fed birds ate 40% more than did control birds, and they regained body mass, with on average 60% of the increase in body mass composed of lean mass including digestive organs. In contrast, food‐limited fruit‐fed birds did not eat more than did control birds and did not regain body mass, suggesting that a digestive constraint limited their food intake. The interacting ef...
The Tao of Urbanism: Rendering the Latent Manifest and the Possible Inevitable

Artisans, artists, designers, choreographers, and other creators shape their work from the resources at hand: materials, dancers, money, land, and other given resources. If they devoted their time and energy to bemoaning what they lacked, they would never bring anything of value forth into the world. In similar fashion, when we build on our own gifts, rather than dwell on inadequacies, our strengths grow stronger. Some Native Americans consider these intrinsic gifts our “original medicine,” endowing unique personal power so we may serve the world most optimally.1 The Taoist tradition, hailing from fifth century bce China, maintains that awareness and trust of our own inner nature allow us to be our best and avoid manipulation by others. These and other wisdom traditions exhort us to honor this rich source of authenticity and creativity.
Physical activity and peripheral arterial disease among patients with coronary artery disease or congestive heart failure

Article history: Received 26 November 2015 Received in revised form 5 January 2016 Accepted 6 January 2016 Available online 9 January 2016 ity. For example, as shown by Bergmann et al. [7], and when compared to hospitalized confirmed diagnosis, sensitivity (true positivity) of selfreported heart disease was 84% among American adults. Free-living physical activity was assessed during all waking hours using the ActiGraph 7164 accelerometer. SAS (version 9.2) was used to reduce accelerometry data to those with ≥4 days of ≥10 h/day of monitored data and integrate it into 1 min time intervals. Nonwear
Cryogenic Refrigeration Concepts Utilizing Adsorption Pumping in Zeolites

Refrigeration without lubrication, vibration, and noise has heretofore been accomplished in at least three distinct forms; thermoelectric junctions that pump heat across a semiconductor PN junction [1], ammonia-water systems that remove heat in an adsorption-percolation-condensation-evaporation cycle [2], and chemisorption systems that exchange hydrogen from lanthanum-nickel and other metal hydrides to develop a pressure difference for circulation of hydrogen gas in a 20-K refrigerator [3,4]. While technically sound, these systems have a mix of advantages and disadvantages that render them unsuitable as the basis for complete cryogenic refrigeration cycles.
Isolation and Characterization of a Chitinase from the Nine-Banded Armadillo, Dasypus novemcinctus

The insectivorous diet of the nine-banded armadillo, Dasypus novemcinctus , is abundant in the polysaccharide chitin. To determine if armadillos produce a chitinase that aids in digestion of chitinous exoskeletons, armadillos were collected, and samples of their gastric and pancreatic tissues were removed. Tissues were lyophilized and stored at −20°C until resuspended in appropriate buffers for studies of pH and temperature optima. Extract from resuspended tissues was assayed for chitinase activity using a colorimetric procedure that detected N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (NAG), the monomeric unit in chitin. Chitinase activity was present only in gastric tissues. Optimal pH for chitinase activity from gastric tissues of armadillo was 5.0, and optimal temperature was 50–60°C. This chitinase was purified five-fold.
Hybrid Polymer/UiO-66(Zr) and Polymer/NaY Fiber Sorbents for Mercaptan Removal from Natural Gas

Zeolite NaY and metal organic frameworks MIL-53(Al) and UiO-66(Zr) are spun with cellulose acetate (CA) polymer to create hybrid porous composite fibers for the selective adsorption of sulfur odorant compounds from pipeline natural gas. Odorant removal is desirable to limit corrosion associated with sulfur oxide production, thereby increasing lifetime in gas turbines used for electricity generation. In line with these goals, the performance of the hybrid fibers is evaluated on the basis of sulfur sorption capacity and selectivity, as well as fiber stability and regenerability, compared to their polymer-free sorbent counterparts. The capacities of the powder sorbents are also measured using various desorption temperatures to evaluate the potential for lower temperature, energy, and cost-efficient system operation. Both NaY/CA and UiO-66(Zr)/CA hybrid fibers are prepared with high sorbent loadings, and both have high capacities and selectivities for t-butyl mercaptan (TBM) odorant sorption from a model natural gas (NG), while being stable to multiple regeneration cycles. The different advantages and disadvantages of both types of fibers relative are discussed, with both offering the potential advantages of low pressure drop, rapid heat and mass transfer, and low energy requirements over traditional sulfur removal technologies such as hydrodesulfurization (HDS) or adsorption in a pellet packed beds.
An early clinical application on exercise testing soon after myocardial infarction

The heart rate,symptom limited exercise tests were performed in 13 patients under age 70,without clinical complication 9～28 days after acute myocardial infarction(AMI).Seven patients had a positive result.The 7 patients with postive test result exercised for an average of 3.80±1.95 mins,achieved a mean heart rate 106.28±16.26 beat/min,and a mean peak systolic blood pressure of 16.57± 1.86 kPa.The 6 patiens with negative test exercised for an average of 8 09±4.86 mins,achieved a peak heart rate of 132.83±19.23 beat/min,and a mean systolic blood pressure of 20.51±4.34kPa.The 7 patients with positive test result showed stenosis in one to three branches of the coronary artery when recovered from performed coronary arteriography,5 had been treat with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty(PTCA) or stent setting .The 6 patients with negative test result had been given exercise prescription according to the exercise test.It was concluded that exercise test should become a conventional test for patients with AMI before discharging.
Analysis of pathogen constitution and antibiotic resistance in maternity intensive care unit patients

Objective:To investigate the distribution and antibiotic resistance of pathogen in maternity intensive care unit patients.Methods:Clinical samples in maternity ICU from January 2009 to December 2011 were collected,then the pathogens were isolated from these samples to detect their antibiotic resistance.Results:There were 144 strains of organisms isolated in 1925 clinical samples.The most common pathogens were E.coli,K.pneumoniae,P.aeruginosa,S.aureus,S.maltophilia.Nearly half of E.coli and K.pneumoniae isolates were ESBL producers.The detection rate of methicillin resistance S.aureus was 75.0%.Conclusion:The pathogens in maternity ICU of our hospital were Gram-negative bacteria primarily,nearly half of the Enterobacteriaceae isolates were ESBL producer,and MRSA detection rate was high.
Role of magnesium in activation of smooth muscle.

We studied the effects of Mg2+-free solutions on isometric force (F0) and unloaded shortening velocity (Vus) in contractions elicited by Ca2+ or by ATP after thiophosphorylation by adenosine 5'-O-(...
The role of chromium(V) in the mechanism of chromate-induced oxidative DNA damage and cancer

The role that high valent chromium intermediates play in the oxidative DNA damage produced by the human carcinogen chromate Cr(VI) is of increasing interest for establishing a mechanism of genotoxicity and mutagenicity for this metal. In this review, the authors summarize experimental evidence for the formation of high valent chromium complexes (primarily the +5 oxidation state) and radical species from the reductive metabolism of Cr(VI). A case is made for a direct- or metal-mediated pathway by high valent chromium to initiate oxidative DNA damage, although the role of radical species in this oxidative process cannot be ruled out.
The Juárez Wives Club: Gendered citizenship and US immigration law

When US citizens sponsor their undocumented spouses for lawful status, they find themselves at the center of immigration petitions. They are invasively scrutinized, treated with bureaucratic indifference, and separated from their loved ones. As this “politics of exception,” which often targets migrants, is unleashed on US citizens, they learn that their citizenship offers little protection from dehumanizing treatment. Instead, restrictive immigration criteria, designed in theory to boost the value of US citizenship, in practice dehumanize US citizens and can alienate them from feelings of national belonging. This contradiction inevitably emerges when shared lives disrupt the boundaries of citizenship status, illuminating inconsistencies in normative conceptions of citizenship itself. [mixed-status families, immigration law, gendered citizenship, legal exception, United States] Cuando los ciudadanos estadounidenses piden para sus conyuges indocumentados un cambio de estatus legal, caen en el ambito de los procedimientos de inmigracion. Se les examina de forma invasiva, se les trata con indiferencia burocratica y se les separa de sus seres queridos. Cuando esa “politica de excepcion”, que normalmente se dirige en contra de los inmigrantes, se aplica a los ciudadanos estadounidenses, estos aprenden que su ciudadania no les protege de tratos inhumanos. De hecho, los criterios restrictivos de inmigracion, disenados en teoria para aumentar el valor de su ciudadania, en la practica les deshumanizan y pueden hacer que se sientan despojados de sentimientos de pertenencia nacional. Esta contradiccion surge inevitablemente cuando las vidas compartidas traspasan las fronteras del estatus de ciudadania, poniendo al descubierto las incoherencias en las concepciones normativas de la ciudadania misma. [familias de estatus mixto, ley de inmigracion, genero y ciudadania, excepcion legal, Estados Unidos]
Diversionary conflict: Demonizing enemies or demonstrating competence?:

How do embattled leaders hope to secure their hold on power by initiating conflict abroad? The literature on diversionary war has emphasized two distinct mechanisms by which leaders stand to gain from conflict — the “rally around the flag” and “gambling for resurrection” theories. But despite a massive literature on the subject, these competing theories of diversionary incentives have never been subjected to comparative empirical evaluation. This article seeks to fill this gap. I argue that the rally and gambling theories predict diversionary conflicts to target different types of states. Diversionary conflicts driven by a rally logic will target traditional enemies and out-groups, including rivals, neighbors, and geopolitically incompatible states. Gambling for resurrection, on the other hand, pushes leaders to target powerful states in order to demonstrate competence to their constituents. Challenging the conventional wisdom, I find little evidence to support the rally mechanism. The results offer subst...
Electron-Induced Ionization and Thermalization in CdS Using Optical Beam Deflection Imaging

The spatial dependence of electron energy loss in semiconducting cadmium sulphide has been investigated as a function of incident electron beam energy using time resolved internal optical beam deflection techniques. Spatial resolution of approximately 0.51.im has been achieved. Ionization and direct electron injection have been shown to dominate the response for times less than 200 nsec, with local thermalization due to electron relaxation effects dominating for times less than several microseconds. Thermal diffusion dominates the beam deflection response at longer times. From these measurements thermal diffusion coefficients have been measured and primary electron ranges estimated. Time resolved images of the primary electron interaction volume have been obtained.
Management Software for Protocol-level Adaptations in Dependable Network Services

The paper describes a management model where aservice provider (SP) maintains multiple protocol modules to exercisethe infrastructure resources (e.g., bandwidth and processing cycles) under various environment conditions. Here, each protocol exhibitsa certain degree of performance optimality and service resiliencein distinct operating regions of the network infrastructure and theenvironment. At run-time, the SP selects one of the protocol modulesthat can meet the client-requested Quality of Service (QoS) obligationagainst the prevailing operating conditions. Under 'normal' conditionswhen the external disturbances are benign and of low intensity(e.g., low packet loss in the network), an optimal usage of the networkresources is important. Under hostile conditions however (such as sub-system outages and failures), a sustained access to the networkservice at some minimum acceptable level becomes more important. Accordingly, a protocol selection by the SP considers the tradeoffbetween service availability under extreme operating conditions andresource optimality under normal operations. Our model allows adynamic switching from one protocol module to another at run-timebased on the changing environment conditions. The paper describessoftware engineering oriented case studies to exemplify the protocolswitching as a foundation to build dependable network services.
Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809–92)

Wordsworth was aware, from 1830 on, that the two Tennyson brothers (Charles and Alfred) were writing poetry that deserved a serious reading. For several years he believed that Charles was the superior craftsman. His praise of Alfred was, more often than not, hedged round with reservations. In 1848, shortly before his death, he told Ralph Waldo Emerson that Alfred Tennyson (who would succeed him as Poet Laureate) was ‘a right poetic genius, though with some affectation’. The assessment echoed an earlier statement, expressed in 1840, that Tennyson and Keats shared an ‘over-lusciousness’. Nevertheless, the right hand gave what the left took away, since Wordsworth thought well of the ‘music in syllables’ that both poets had mastered. His distaste for Tennyson’s first performance – probably Poems, chiefly Lyrical (1830), rather than Poems (1833) – may be sensed in a number of slighting remarks that he kept making until his death.
Carbamazepine Exacerbation of Absence Epilepsy

The inappropriate use of carbamazepine (CBZ) in 8 children, and vigabatrin (VGB) in 2, among 18 consecutive referrals of children with resistant typical absence seizures, is reported from St Thomas’ and Guy’s Hospitals, London, UK.
TCT-703 Accuracy and Procedural Characteristics of Radiofrequency Compared With Standard Needle Transseptal Puncture for Structural Heart Interventions

Targeted transseptal (TS) puncture is an essential technique for many structural heart interventions. Spatial accuracy of standard versus radiofrequency (RF) needles has not previously been reported. Consecutive patients undergoing left-sided structural heart interventions requiring TS puncture
Abstract A080: Balance of commensal bacteria specific Th17 and RORγt+ Treg cells in intestinal homeostasis and inflammation

A number of Helicobacter species, including Helicobacter hepaticus, have been isolated as the etiological agents of ulcerative inflammatory bowel disease and cancer in their respective hosts. H. hepaticus induces severe Th17-Th1 mediated colitis in a number of immuno-compromised mouse strains, but does not usually cause disease in most wild-type mouse strains. However, how the inflammatory response is carefully contained to be harmless under homeostatic conditions and how perturbations lead to pathogenicity remain elusive questions. To understand this, we developed new research tools, including TCR transgenic mice, as well as MHCII tetramers to interrogate the regulation of H. hepaticus-specific CD4+ T cell function. Interestingly, in contrast to Segmented Filamentous Bacteria (SFB), which induces Th17 cells in the small intestinal lamina propria (SILP) of both IL10+/− and IL-10−/− mice, H. hepaticus mainly induces RORgt+ Treg cells in the large intestinal lamina propria (LILP) of IL-10-sufficient mice, but induces a Th17-Th1 response in the absence of IL-10. We propose that the balance between self/commensal antigen-induced RORgt+ Treg and Th17 cells may be a general strategy to control autoimmune inflammation. Note: This abstract was not presented at the conference. Citation Format: Mo Xu, Yi Yang, Maria Pokrovskii, Carolina Galan, Dan R. Littman. Balance of commensal bacteria specific Th17 and RORγt+ Treg cells in intestinal homeostasis and inflammation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; 2016 Sept 25-28; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A080.
European Cities and Global Competitiveness: Strategies for Improving Performance

Peter Karl Kresl and Daniele Ietri’s ambitious reader European Cities and Global Competitiveness draws from nineteen contributors, from North America, Europe, and Asia with a particular focus on It...
The radio jets and accretion disk in NGC 4261

The structure of active galactic nucleus (AGN) accretion disks on subparsec scales can be probed through free-free absorption of synchrotron emission from the base of symmetric radio jets. For objects in which both jet and counterjet are detectable with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI), the accre- tion disk will cover part of the counterjet and produce diminished brightness whose angular size and depth as a function of frequency can reveal the radial distribution of free electrons in the disk. The nearby (41 Mpc, independent of FR I radio galaxy NGC 4261 contains a pair of symmetric H 0 ) kiloparsec-scale jets. On parsec scales, radio emission from the nucleus is strong enough for detailed imaging with VLBI. We present new Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) observations of NGC 4261 at 22 and 43 GHz, which we combine with previous observations at 1.6 and 8.4 GHz to map absorption caused by an inner accretion disk. The relative closeness of NGC 4261 combined with the high angular resolution provided by the VLBA at 43 GHz gives us a very high linear resolution, approximately 2 ) 10~2 pc B 4000 AU B 400 Schwarzschild radii for a 5 ) 108 black hole. The jets appear more M _ symmetric at 1.6 GHz because of the low angular resolution available. The jets are also more symmetric at 22 and 43 GHz, presumably because the optical depth of free-free absorption is small at high fre- quencies. At 8.4 GHz, neither confusion eUect is dominant and absorption of counterjet emission by the presumed disk is detectable. We —nd that the orientation of the radio jet axis is the same on parsec and kiloparsec scales, indicating that the spin axis of the inner accretion disk and black hole has remained unchanged for at least 106 (and more likely (107) yr. This suggests that a single merger event may be responsible for the supply of gas in the nucleus of NGC 4261. The jet opening angle is between and 0i.3 20i during the —rst 0.2 pc of the jet and must be less than 5i during the —rst 0.8 pc. Assuming that the accretion disk is geometrically and optically thin and composed of a uniform 104 K plasma, the average electron density in the inner 0.1 pc of the disk is 103¨108 cm~3. The mass of ionized gas in the inner pc of the disk is 101¨103 sufficient to power the radio source for D104¨106 yr. Equating thermal gas M _ , pressure and magnetic —eld strength gives a disk magnetic —eld of D10~4 to 10~2 gauss at 0.1 pc. We include an appendix containing expressions for a simple, optically thin, gas-pressuredominated accretion disk model that may be applicable to other galaxies in addition to NGC 4261. Subject headings: accretion, accretion disksgalaxies: active ¨ galaxies: individual (NGC 4261, 3C 270) ¨ galaxies: jetsgalaxies: nuclei
Measurement of prompt fission neutron spectrum for spontaneous fission of 252 Cf using γ multiplicity tagging

The prompt fission neutron spectrum from spontaneous fission of $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$ is an integral part of several aspects of nuclear data. Not only is the spectrum itself of interest, but neutron detectors often use the spectrum for calibration, and other prompt fission neutron spectra are measured as a ratio to $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$. Therefore, reducing the uncertainties in this spectrum will allow for more accurate nuclear data to be available across a wide range of fields. The prompt fission neutron spectrum for the spontaneous fission of $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$ was measured at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute using the multiple $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ tagging method with a 18.4-ng fission sample. An EJ-301 liquid scintillator fast neutron detector was used to measure the high energy portion of the spectrum, 0.5--7 MeV, and a thin EJ-204 plastic scintillator was used to measure the low energy portion of the spectrum, from 50 keV to 2 MeV. These spectra both show good agreement with the current evaluation of $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$ and have low associated uncertainties providing a new high precision measurement that helps reduce the uncertainties in the prompt fission neutron spectrum for the spontaneous fission of $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$.
Sit-stand workstations and impact on low back discomfort: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Sit-stand workstations are proposed solutions to reduce sedentary time at work. Numerous companies are using them to mitigate health concerns such as musculoskeletal discomfort. Objective To review the literature on sit-stand workstations and low back discomfort. Method We conducted a meta-analysis on literature published before 17 November 2016 that addressed the relationship between sit-stand workstations and musculoskeletal discomfort, focusing on the low back. Results Twelve articles were identified and eight that presented results in means (SD) were included. Among a pain-free population, the standardised mean difference was -0.230 for low back discomfort with use of sit-stand workstations. When applying the SMD to studies using the 10-point pain scale, the effect estimates ranged between -0.30 and -0.51. Conclusion sit-stand workstations may reduce low back pain among workers. Further research is needed to help quantify dosage parameters and other health outcomes. Practitioner Summary: In a sedentary population, changing posture may reduce the chance of developing low back pain. The literature lacks studies on specific populations such as those who have pre-existing low back pain and also does not adequately address the dosage of sit-stand time required to help reduce pain.