cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Provider Prompts on Adolescent Immunization Rates: A Randomized Trial

Abstract Objective Adolescent immunization rates are suboptimal. Experts recommend provider prompts at health care visits to improve rates. We assessed the impact of either electronic health record (EHR) or nurse- or staff-initiated provider prompts on adolescent immunization rates. Methods We conducted a randomized controlled trial, allocating practices in 1 of 2 practice-based research networks (PBRN) to provider prompts or standard-of-care control. Ten primary care practices participated, 5 intervention and 5 controls, each matched in pairs on urban, suburban, or rural location and practice type (pediatric or family medicine), from a PBRN in Greater Rochester, New York (GR-PBRN); and 12 practices, 6 intervention, 6 controls, similarly matched, from a national pediatric continuity clinic PBRN (CORNET). The study period was 1 year per practice, ranging from June 2011 to January 2013. Study participants were adolescents 11 to 17 years attending these 22 practices; random sample of chart reviews per practice for baseline and postintervention year to assess immunization rates (n = 7,040 total chart reviews for adolescents with >1 visit in a period). The intervention was an EHR prompt (4 GR-PBRN and 5 CORNET practice pairs) (alert) that appeared on providers' computer screens at all office visits, indicating the specific immunizations that adolescents were recommended to receive. Staff prompts (1 GR-PBRN pair and 1 CORNET pair) in the form of a reminder sheet was placed on the provider's desk in the exam room indicating the vaccines due. We compared immunization rates, stratified by PBRN, for routine vaccines (meningococcus, pertussis, human papillomavirus, influenza) at study beginning and end. Results Intervention and control practices within each PBRN were similar at baseline for demographics and immunization rates. Immunization rates at the study end for adolescents who were behind on immunizations at study initiation were not significantly different for intervention versus control practices for any vaccine or combination of vaccines. Results were similar for each PBRN and also when only EHR-based prompts was assessed. For example, at study end, 3-dose human papillomavirus vaccination rates for GR-PBRN intervention versus control practices were 51% versus 53% (adjusted odds ratio 0.96; 95% confidence interval 0.64–1.34); CORNET intervention versus control rates were 50% versus 42% (adjusted odds ratio 1.06; 95% confidence interval 0.68–1.88). Conclusions and Relevance: In both a local and national setting, provider prompts failed to improve adolescent immunization rates. More rigorous practice-based changes are needed.
HOW COLLEGE SENIORS PERCEIVE THEIR WORLD

Students graduating from American colleges in 1980 live in a world whose elements are increasingly interdependent. Are these educated world citizens prepared to understand the interactions of nations in an interdependent world? Do they apprehend world problems from a catholic, multi-disciplinary point of view, and can they note and appreciate the immense complexity of the problems in both cause and effect? Do they perceive the extent to which individual lives, including their own, are affected by global or international conditions, and do any historical perspectives guide their understanding? In February 1980, Educational Testing Service, having received funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the U. S. Department of Education, surveyed a nationally representative random sample of over 3,000 students at two-year and four-year colleges. This paper describes partial results for the sample of seniors. Forthcoming reports will provide full results for freshmen, seniors, and students at two-year institutions.
Full-spectrum scene simulation

The MCScene code, a high fidelity model for full optical spectrum (UV to LWIR) hyperspectral image (HSI) simulation, will be discussed and its features illustrated with sample calculations. MCScene is based on a Direct Simulation Monte Carlo approach for modeling 3D atmospheric radiative transport, as well as spatially inhomogeneous surfaces including surface BRDF effects. The model includes treatment of land and water surfaces, 3D terrain, 3D surface objects, and effects of finite clouds with surface shadowing. This paper will review the more recent upgrades to the model, including the development of an approach for incorporating direct and scattered thermal emission predictions into the MCScene simulations. Calculations presented in the paper include a full optical spectrum simulation from the visible to the LWIR for a desert scene. This scene was derived from an AVIRIS visible to SWIR HSI data collect over the Virgin Mountains in Nevada, extrapolated to the thermal IR. Other calculations include complex 3D clouds over urban and rural terrain.
In Vitro Effect of Indomethacin on Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Function in Preterm Infants

In Vitro Effect of Indomethacin on Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Function in Preterm Infants
On stationary and travelling vortex breakdowns

This paper describes some experiments in swirling flows in a diverging cylindrical tube in which various types of vortex breakdowns were observed.In one set of experiments, the position of the breakdown, axial component of the velocity of the vortex core, swirl angle distribution ahead of the breakdown, and the pressure distribution along the tube were determined for various flow rates and for various values of circulation imparted to the fluid (water). Basically, three types of vortex breakdown were observed, viz. mild (double helix) breakdown, spiral breakdown (followed by turbulent mixing), and axisymmetric breakdown (followed by a thicker vortex core, then a spiral breakdown, and finally by turbulent mixing). The type and the location of the stationary breakdowns were found to be dependent, for the particular vortex tube used, upon the Reynolds and circulation numbers of the flow. In a spiral breakdown, the vortex core filament maintained the same sense of rotation as the upstream fluid elements. In an axisymmetric breakdown, the bubble included an inclined vortex-ring whose axis gyrated about the axis of the tube.In a second set of experiments, the response of the abrupt structural change along the axis of flow to gradual and abrupt changes in the upstream and downstream flow conditions was examined. The axisymmetric breakdown responded in a manner analogous to the hydraulic jump in open-channel flow before if reached a new stationary position along the axis of the tube.The observations reported and the evidence presented herein revealed that the axisymmetric breakdown is a finite transition between two sequent states of flow as proposed by Benjamin (1962, 1965, 1967) on theoretical grounds.
A case with unusual stroke and fulminant outcome in a Hispanic male.

PATIENT Male, 42 FINAL DIAGNOSIS: Moyamoya disease (MMD) Symptoms: Aphasia • concentration difficulty • dysarthria • personality change MEDICATION - Clinical Procedure: - Specialty: Radiology. OBJECTIVE Rare disease. BACKGROUND Moyamoya disease (MMD) was first described in 1957 as "hypoplasia of the bilateral internal carotid arteries." The characteristic appearance of the associated network of abnormally dilated collateral vessels on angiography was later likened to "something hazy, like a puff of cigarette smoke," which, in Japanese, is Moyamoya. This paper describes the fulminant course of the disease in a Hispanic male involving the corpus callosum. CASE REPORT A 42-year-old Hispanic male with progressive aphasia, slow mentation, and sudden onset of sensorimotor symptoms with gait disturbance was found to have multiple intracranial supratentorial infarcts of variable stages of evolution involving, but not limited to, the anterior corpus callosum, followed by rapid development of further infarcts. Angiography demonstrated right ACA occlusion, left supraclinoid ICA occlusion with a Moyamoya pattern of collateralization, and diffuse arteriopathy. A fulminant course ensued and the patient did not survive the acute phase of ischemic disease. CONCLUSIONS Moyamoya disease may rarely present in North American Hispanic males, with advanced atypical clinical and imaging features involving the anterior corpus callosum and having a fulminant course.
How magnetotactic bacteria make magnetosomes queue up

Magnetotactic bacteria contain chains of magnetosomes that comprise a permanent magnetic dipole in each cell. In two separate, recent papers, Scheffel et al. and Komeili et al. describe the roles of the proteins MamJ and MamK in magnetosome chain formation. Here, we describe the two studies and highlight questions that must be addressed in future investigations of how magnetotactic bacteria construct their magnetic compass needles.
DYNAMIC DISAGGREGATE CHOICE MODELS, WITH AN APPLICATION IN TRANSPORTATION

A standard assumption of disaggregate mode-choice models is that an individual faced with a choice among several available alternative transportation modes compares their utilities. These utilities are almost always expressed as a linear composite measure of various perceived benefits which are assumed constant. However, the individual's perceptions change as he learns, acquires new habits, or adapts to different physical, economic, and social circumstances. In order to account for these changes, two dynamic models of model-choice behavior are developed herein. These two models are based on two common postulates. (1) One alternative is preferred over another only if the absolute difference in their utilities exceeds a positive constant; otherwise, the decision maker is indifferent toward the two alternatives. (2) If an alternative is preferred, it will be chosen with certainty. In the indifference state, the individual is postulated to randomly choose one of the two alternatives (Model 1) or choose the same alternative as was most recently chosen (Model 2). Choice probabilities derived from these two models are shown to differ from those obtained using the conventional logit model. If there is a strong loyalty toward a mode, the logit model underestimates its choice probability when that mode is less attractive than the competing mode. The results are illustrated using numerical examples.
The authority of the ecumenical patriarch in the Orthodox Church: A historico-canonical analysis

During the 20th century, the exact role and the scope of jurisdictional authority of the Ecumenical Patriarch was an object of attention of both theologians and historians. The problem of defining the Patriarch was reactualized through the intensification of conciliar negotiations of Orthodox Churches. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate that the pretensions of the Ecumenical Patriarch for universal jurisdiction over the entire Orthodox Diaspora, and the pretensions for the right of final arbitration in the ecclesial matters of the entire Orthodox communion, do not have a support in the Orthodox Ecclesiology. This will be argued in a historical analysis of the relevant prescriptions of the Eastern Orthodox Canon Law, which will be placed into the context of the history of the Christian Church, primarily of the Patristic period, since there disciplines play a vital role in the Orthodox understanding of Ecclesiological Tradition.
Left common iliac artery to inferior vena cava abdominal wall arteriovenous graft for hemodialysis access

We describe a novel arteriovenous graft configuration in the abdominal wall for hemodialysis in a 51-year-old woman with sickle cell disease. Upper extremity access sites were exhausted, and intrathoracic central veins occluded. Because of diminished quality of the left groin due to scar tissue from previous infected access, inadequate vasculature, and the presence of functional femoral catheter in the right groin with common iliac vein stenosis, we decided to create an arteriovenous graft from the left common iliac artery to the inferior vena cava. Adequate thrill and uneventful postoperative recovery was observed. At 4 months, the patient has been successfully using her graft.
Declining trend in the use of repeat computed tomography for trauma patients admitted to a level I trauma center for traffic-related injuries

Abstract Objective To evaluate the trend in utilization of repeat (i.e. ≥2) computed tomography (CT) and to compare utilization patterns across body regions for trauma patients admitted to a level I trauma center for traffic-related injuries (TRI). Materials and Methods We linked the Harborview Medical Center trauma registry (1996–2010) to the billing department data. We extracted the following variables: type and frequency of CTs performed, age, gender, race/ethnicity, insurance status, injury mechanism and severity, length of hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and final disposition. TRIs were defined as motor vehicle collisions, motorcycle, bicycle and pedestrian-related injuries. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between utilization of different body region repeat (i.e. ≥2) CTs and year of admission, adjusting for patient and injury-related characteristics that could influence utilization patterns. Results A total of 28,431 patients were admitted for TRIs over the study period and 9499 (33%) received repeat CTs. From 1996 to 2010, the proportion of patients receiving repeat CTs decreased by 33%. Relative to 2000 and adjusting for other covariates, patients with TRIs admitted in 2010 had significantly lower odds of undergoing repeat head (OR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.49–0.76), pelvis (OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.27–0.52), cervical spine (OR = 0.23; 95% CI: 0.12–0.43), and maxillofacial CTs (OR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.10–0.57). However, they had higher odds of receiving repeat thoracic CTs (OR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.02–3.38). Conclusion A significant decrease in the utilization of repeat CTs was observed in trauma patients presenting with traffic-related injuries over a 15-year period.
Effect of Sophonia rufofascia (Homoptera: Cicadellidae) on guava production in Hawaii

Yield studies and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination of guava, Psidium guajava L., were performed to determine whether feeding by the leafhopper Sophonia rufofascia Kuoh and Kuoh or the presence of phytoplasmas were responsible for chlorosis. Insecticide treatments reduced leafhopper densities and chlorosis and increased yield 23% compared with untreated control trees. Treatment with the antibiotic oxytetracycline had no effect on symptom expression nor on yield of the trees. PCR using primers specific to sequences in the 16S ribosomal RNA of phytoplasmas did not reveal any phytoplasma involvement in trees showing chlorosis. Leafhopper feeding was not shown to affect guava juice pH or degrees brix (total soluble solids).
Alcohol, central nervous system injury, and time to death in fatal motor vehicle crashes.

OBJECTIVES: Motor vehicle crash (MVC) studies have found that alcohol (ALC) is associated with increased mortality and decreased time to death (TTD). Clinical and experimental data suggest that ALC potentiates central nervous system injury (CNSI). We hypothesize that ALC-intoxicated, MVC fatalities with CNSI are more likely to die in the immediate postinjury period than are sober victims with CNSI. Methods; DESIGN: A retrospective cohort of 401 MVC fatalities from four Michigan counties for the time period 1985 to 1991 was studied. MEASUREMENTS: Medical examiner records were reviewed to determine age, blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and TTD. Injury severity was calculated with the Abbreviated injury Scale (1985 version). Anatomical profile scores and G scores were also calculated and used to identify CNSI subjects. ANALYSIS: chi 2 and Student's t test were used, and odds ratios with 0.95 confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. RESULTS: ALC(+) cases (BAC > or = 100 mg/dl) (n = 99) were significantly younger and more frequently had TTD Language: en
Analysis of mode I delamination of z-pinned composites using a non-dimensional analytical model

a b s t r a c t We present a non-dimensional analytical model for crack propagation in a z-pinned double cantilever beam specimen (DCB) under mode I loading. Effect of various design parameters on the crack bridging length and apparent fracture toughness are investigated using this model. The efficacy of the analytical model is evaluated by comparing the results with 3D finite element (FE) simulations of the DCB. In the FE model the z-pins are modeled as discrete nonlinear elements. Bi-linear cohesive elements are used ahead of the crack tip to account for the interlaminar fracture toughness of the composite material. The results for load-deflection and crack length obtained from the analytical model and the FE model are compared and found to be in good agreement. The proposed non-dimensional analytical model will be useful in the design and analysis of translaminar reinforcements for composite structures.
A dynamic 1D model of a solid oxide fuel cell for real time simulation

Abstract A 1D dynamic solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) model has been developed for real time applications. The model accounts for all transport and polarization phenomena by developing a system of governing differential equations over 1D control volumes. The 1D model is an improvement over existing 0D real time models in that it can more accurately predict the temperature and pressure variations along the cell while maintaining real time capabilities with regards to computational time. Several simplifications are required to maintain real time capabilities while improving the fidelity of the model. It was found that a 1D model with 21 nodes performs each time dependent computation in 3.8 ms. Results show that activation overpotentials account for most of the total cell overpotential, and that temperature variations across this particular cell exceed 100 K. Depending on the gas channel configuration, the pumping power required to supply air and fuel to the cell can be in the same order of magnitude as the power produced by the fuel cell. It is shown that the use of fewer channels with larger cross-sectional areas, reduces the pressure drop due to wall friction, and hence reduces the required pumping power.
Failure Analysis of a Structural Sub-assembly From a Slimes Filter Press

This paper presents results from a failure analysis investigation of a structural I-beam and supporting bolt of a slimes filter press. Metallurgical failure analysis techniques were employed to investigate the sequence of events leading up to final fracture. From analysis of the micrographs, it is concluded that the cyclic loading operating conditions of the filter press caused an initial fatigue crack on the bolt that propagated until the surrounding bolts failed, causing the last bolt to fracture by overload. Once this final bolt failed, a crack initiated at the weld interface where defects were observed and was the cause for final failure of the filter press.
Conducting surveys on sensitive topics

Many institutions are surveying students about sensitive topics such as alcohol and drug use, sexual behavior, and academic dishonesty. Yet these can be some of the most difficult surveys to administer successfully, given reluctance on the part of respondents both to participate and to provide truthful answers.
Tibial Rotation in Anterior Cruciate Deficient Knees: An In Vitro Study

The role of the anterior cruciate ligament in controlling tibial rotation was evaluated in four cadavera knee joints. Tibial rotation and anterior drawer tests were performed at multiple angles of knee flexion both before and after arthroscopic surgical section of the anterior cruciate ligament. Measurements were made using an instrumented electrogoniometer and force transducer system (GenucomTM). The results suggest that under clinically applied loads, rotation of the tibia is not constrained by the anterior cruciate ligament. The results also indicate an interpretation for anterior drawer tests when accompanied by an imposed tibial rotation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1989;11(4):146-149.
Heritability of Respiratory Infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis

Objective To quantify the relative contribution of factors other than cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator genotype and environment on the acquisition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ( Pa ) by patients with cystic fibrosis. Study design Lung infection with Pa and mucoid Pa was assessed using a co-twin study design of 44 monozygous (MZ) and 17 dizygous (DZ) twin pairs. Two definitions were used to establish infection: first positive culture and persistent positive culture. Genetic contribution to infection (ie, heritability) was estimated based on concordance analysis, logistic regression, and age at onset of infection through comparison of intraclass correlation coefficients. Results Concordance for persistent Pa infection was higher in MZ (0.83; 25 of 30 pairs) than DZ twins (0.45; 5 of 11 pairs), generating a heritability of 0.76. Logistic regression adjusted for age corroborated genetic control of persistent Pa infection. The correlation for age at persistent Pa infection was higher in MZ twins (0.589; 95% CI, 0.222-0.704) than in DZ twins (0.162; 95% CI, −0.352 to 0.607), generating a heritability of 0.85. Conclusion Genetic modifiers play a significant role in the establishment and timing of persistent Pa infection in individuals with cystic fibrosis.
Modeling Efficacy: The Effect of Perceived Parental Efficacy on the Self-Efficacy of Early Adolescents:

This study examines the effects of early adolescents' perceptions of parents' efficacy and parents' behaviors on the self-efficacy of early adolescents. Eighty-two young people between the ages of 9 and 15 years provided data on themselves and their parents in structured interviews. Separate path analyses for same and opposite sex parents for boys and girls provide evidence that perceived efficacy of parents has a greater influence on the self-efficacy of boys and that parental behaviors more strongly affect the self-efficacy of girls. It is concluded that the origins of this dimension of self-esteem in boys is more strongly influenced by modeling, while for girls, reflected appraisals are more important.
Theoretical analysis and design of submicron-LAPS

Light addressable potentiometric sensors (LAPS) are important cell sensors. After the invention, much effort has been made to improve the spatial resolution in order to realize a single cell level measurement. In this paper, the concept of submicron-LAPS is proposed and researched theoretically to improve the spatial resolution to less than 1 μm. Modern semiconductor devices theories are used to study the minority carrier diffusion patterns, which determine the spatial resolution of LAPS. Based on the band energy theory, a physical model and corresponding mathematical models are proposed to estimate the spatial resolution. A new definition of spatial resolution is made in this paper to match the reported experimental results. The finite element analysis (FEA) method is used to solve the partial differential equations. Based on the simulation results, one novel structure, which combined the MEMS and MOSFET technologies, were studied theoretically to realize the concept of submicron-LAPS.
Plastic stress and strain fields at a crack tip

Abstract Further details of the stress and strain fields associated with the dominant singularity governing the plastic behaviour at a crack tip are presented for conditions of plane stress and plane strain for cracks in both far tensile and far shear fields. Results are obtained for a power hardening material. Limiting cases for non-hardening materials are shown to correspond to certain perfect plasticity solutions.
Effect of Temperature Gradient on End Cell Water Transport in a Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell After Shutdown

In a PEFC stack, end cells are subjected to severe conditions compared to the center cell, sometimes resulting in poor end cell performance and early freeze out. In this work, the concept of using controlled temperature gradients to non-parasitically remove excess water from end cell during PEFC stack shutdown has been numerically investigated. To investigate the end cell water transport, an integrated modeling approach focusing both at stack and single cell level is presented. The stack thermal model is developed to obtain detailed temperature distribution across the PEFC stack. Extending the results of the stack thermal model into a single cell level, a two-phase unit fuel cell model is developed to investigate the water and thermal transport in the PEFC components after shutdown, which for the first time includes thermo-osmotic flow in the membrane. The model accounts for capillary and phase-change induced flow in the porous media, and thermo-osmotic and diffusive flow in the polymer membrane. The single cell model is used to estimate the local water distribution with land/channel boundary condition, and the experimentally validated stack thermal model provided the transient temperature boundary condition to simulate the end cells. Model results indicate that a favorable temperature gradient can be formed in the stack to enhance the water drainage rate, thus enhancing the anode end cell cold start performance.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Liquid membrane transport: a survey

Abstract The literature pertaining to facilitated transport and liquid membrane separations is reviewed and summarized, especially work reported since 1977. Liquid membranes of all geometries are discussed, including immobilized liquid membranes and liquid surfactant or emulsion liquid membranes. Emphasis is placed on facilitated, or carrier-mediated transport in both configurations although other mechanisms such as coupled-transport and transport due to solubility differences are discussed. Mathematical modeling and analytical solutions for facilitated transport models are summarized. The possibility of industrial application of liquid membrane technology is mentioned and the most important experimental techniques for liquid membrane research are discussed. Also, directions for future research are recommended.
Spinodal decomposition with surface tension driven flows

Abstract The Cahn-Hilliard theory of phase separation by spinodal decomposition has been extended to include hydrodynamics caused by surface tension. Numerical solutions for phase separation in binary polymer mixtures in two spatial dimension are presented. The surface tension influences the growth rate of the average domain size and the morphology for near critical quenches that would otherwise form cocontinuous networks. The growth rate exponent depends on the value of dimensionless surface tension, γ = [(ρ0 m 3/2)/(Dμ)][(κυ s )/(RgT)]½, and ranges from 0.30 ±0.03, for γ = 0 (no hydrodynamics) to 0.69 ±0.04 for γ = 1 for a critical quench. For an off-critical quench in which a dispersed phase would be formed by diffusion alone, the scaling exponent shows little effect of surface tension and ranges from 0.28 ±0.02 for γ = 0 to 0.32 ±0.02 for γ = l. While not conclusive, the results suggest that it is infeasible to prepare bulk samples of cocontinuous polymer phases by the process known as compositional q...
Pragmatism, institutionalism, and the construction of employment discrimination

This paper uses ideas from neoinstitutional theory, as well as insights from the philosophy of pragmatism, to explain the construction of employment discrimination to include a model based on race differences in employment statistics.” While some suggest the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in the middle 1960s was the site of an ideological takeover or capture, this paper instead highlights the practical difficulties resulting from the commission's classically liberal founding institutional rules. The raceconscious, statistical model was constructed unintentionally, the result of the pragmatic pursuit of the original goal of effective and expedient enforcement of nondiscrimination.
NF-AT components define a family of transcription factors targeted in T-cell activation

THE NF-AT transcription complex1 is required for the expression of a group of proteins that collectively coordinate the immune response2–4 . Here we purify two proteins encoded by separate genes that represent the pre-existing (p) and cytosolic (c) components of NF-AT. Expression of the full-length complementary DNA enco-ding NF-ATc activates the interleukin (IL-2) promoter in non-T lymphocytes, whereas a dominant negative of NF-ATc specifically blocks activation of the IL-2 promoter in T lymphocytes, indicating that NF-ATc is required for IL-2 gene expression. NF-ATc RNA expression is largely restricted to lymphoid tissues and is induced upon T-cell activation. The other protein, NF-ATp, is highly homo-logous to NF-ATc over a limited domain which shows similarity to the Dorsal/Rel family5, but has a wider tissue distribution. Agents that increase intracellular Ca2+ or activate protein kinase C independently modify NF-ATc, indicating that distinct signalling pathways converge on NF-ATc to regulate its function.
The harmonic scalpel: An intraoperative complication

Background The harmonic scalpel is an ultrasonically activated surgical instrument for tissue dissection. Despite its expanding surgical applications, there are no reports about associated complications. Case A 35-year-old woman sustained injury to the sigmoid colon from the use of the harmonic scalpel during laparoscopic lysis of pelvic adhesions. The injury was identified and repaired laparoscopically in a primary fashion with no subsequent sequelae. Conclusion Acoustic energy coupling and overheating of the laparosonic blade extender sheath occur with bending of the instrument. This can happen with steering of the blade extender during laparoscopic surgery and may increase the exposure risk of adjacent tissues to injury.
Effects of surface heterogeneity of cobalt oxyhydroxide/graphite oxide composites on reactive adsorption of hydrogen sulfide

Abstract A high surface area cobalt oxyhydroxide and its composites with graphite oxide (GO) were prepared by a fast and simple procedure consisting of a precipitation followed by an oxidation with a strong oxidizer. The materials were tested as H2S reactive adsorbents at ambient conditions. Their structural properties and surface chemistry, before and after H2S exposure, were investigated using nitrogen adsorption, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and thermal analysis. Results showed that the cobalt oxyhydroxide is a good H2S adsorbent. Even though the incorporation of a graphene-based phase slightly decreases the performance of cobalt oxyhydroxide, its presence promotes the retention of H2S oxidation product, SO2, on the surface. The reactive adsorption of H2S results in the formation of at least three different sulfur species underlying the complexity of the surface reactions. The detection of sulfates indicates that the oxidation is the main mechanism of H2S retention on the surface of these materials.
Calorimetric comparisons of the interactions of seven coals and their derived liquids with thirteen acids

Abstract Heats of interaction for samples of Wyoming-Dakota subbituminous, Illinois no. 6 bituminous, Pittsburgh no. 8 bituminous and Utah Black Thunder subbituminous coals with 13 acids (carboxylic, sulfonic and boron trichloride) are reported at 25 °C by titration and immersion calorimetry. These acids are considerably stronger than the phenols used previously to study hydrogen-bonding interactions in coals and their derived liquids. The coals are compared to each other and to polyvinylpyridine as a prototype solid base. Considerable differentiation is found between the coals, primarily in terms of their ranks and aromatic content. Titrametric heats of reaction were also determined for the acids with liquids derived from several of the coals. In all cases reactions with the coal-derived liquids were more exothermic than with the parent coals and there were several examples of parallel response by liquid systems and their solid precursors, although such correlations were by no means general.
Kinetics of the photo-induced EPR signal in whole-cell Rhodospirillum rubrum: effects of light intensity, dark adaptation, temperature, and microwave power.

— Kinetics of the bacteriochlorophyll (P870+) electron paramagnetic resonance signal photo-induced at room temperature in whole-cell Rhodospirillum rubrum exhibit transients which are strongly dependent upon the light-dark history of the cells. This paper reports a study of these kinetics as a function of actinic light intensity, light-dark history, temperature and applied microwave power. The simplest interpretation of the observed complexities in the kinetic curves is that the rate of formation and the rate of decay of P870+ are controlled by slow dark reactions of the electron-transport chain, and that the rate-controlling reaction is variable during the transition from a dark-adapted to a steady state in the light. With this interpretation, it is possible to measure or to infer order-of-magnitude estimates of the lifetimes of some of the slow reactions.
Preterm Infant Thermal Care: Differing Thermal Environments Produced by Air Versus Skin Servo-Control Incubators

Preterm Infant Thermal Care: Differing Thermal Environments Produced by Air Versus Skin Servo-Control Incubators
Nitrate reductase regulation: Effects of nitrate and light on nitrate reductase mRNA accumulation

Regulation of nitrate reductase mRNA by light and nitrate was studied in barley seedlings using a partial cDNA clone as a probe. Nitrate reductase mRNA was detected in roots and leaves within 40 min after supplying nitrate to the roots and reached peak accumulation at 2 h in the roots and at 12 h in the leaves. In the absence of nitrate, nitrate reductase mRNA was not detected in shoots but low levels were detected in roots. After reaching a peak, nitrate reductase mRNA declined to approximately 60% and 40% of the peak accumulation in the leaves and roots, respectively. In both roots and leaves the decline in nitrate reductase mRNA occurred while nitrate reductase activity and tissue nitrate were increasing. Light enhanced nitrate reductase mRNA accumulation but the responses of etiolated and green leaves to light were different. Seedlings grown in light and exposed to nitrate in the dark accumulated low but detectable nitrate reductase activity and mRNA. These seedlings did not respond to red, far-red, or blue light but did exhibit a strong fluence response to white light. However in etiolated seedlings, nitrate reductase mRNA increased 20-fold in response to red and blue light. These results indicate that phytochrome or another photoreceptor may facilitate induction of nitrate reductase transcription by nitrate in etiolated seedlings but not in green leaves.
Glutathione S-transferases as antioxidant enzymes: Small cell lung cancer (H69) cells transfected with hGSTA1 resist doxorubicin-induced apoptosis

It has been suggested that the alpha-class glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) protect various cell types from oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (LPO). In order to examine the protective role of alpha-class GST isozyme hGSTA1-1 against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced lipid peroxidation, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis, human small cell lung cancer (SCLC) H69 cells were stably transfected with hGSTA1. Immunological and biochemical characterization of hGSTA1-transfected cells revealed the expression of functionally active hGSTA1-1 localized near the cellular plasma membranes. hGSTA1-transfected cells acquired significantly increased resistance to the DOX-induced cytotoxicity by suppressing lipid peroxidation levels in these cells. Overexpression of hGSTA1-1 in cells inhibited DOX-mediated depletion of GSH and higher GSH levels were found in DOX-treated hGSTA1-transfected cells as compared with empty vector-transfected controls. hGSTA1-1 overexpression also provided protection to cells from DOX-induced apoptosis by inhibiting phosphorylation of c-Jun-N-terminal kinases (JNK), caspase-3 activation, and by preserving the levels of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. These results are consistent with the idea that the alpha-class GSTs provide protection against oxidative stress by attenuating lipid peroxidation and these enzymes can modulate signaling for apoptosis.
Jaks and stats in cytokine signaling

Hematopoiesis is regulated through the binding of cytokines to receptors of the cytokine receptor superfamily. Although lacking catalytic domains, members of the cytokine receptor superfamily mediate ligand-dependent activation of protein tyrosine phosphorylation through their association and activation of members of the Janus kinase (Jak) family of protein tyrosine kinases. The activated Jaks phosphorylate the receptors which creates docking sites for SH2-containing signaling proteins which are tyrosine phosphorylated following their association with the complex. Among the substrates of tyrosine phosphorylation are members of the signal transducers and activators of the transcription family of proteins (Stats). Various cytokines induce the tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of one or more of the seven family members. The pattern of Stat activation provides a level of cytokine individuality that is not observed in the activation of other signaling pathways. The role of various Stats in the biological responses to cytokines has been assessed through the analysis of receptor mutations which disrupt Stat activation and more recently by disruption of the genes in mice. Our results have demonstrated that the activation of Stat5a and Stat5b by erythropoietin is critical for the activation of a number of immediate early genes but is not required for a mitogenic response. Mice in which the genes for Stat4 and Stat6 are disrupted are viable but lack functions that are mediated by interleukin 12 (IL-12) or IL-4, respectively, suggesting that these Stats perform very specific functions in immune responses. Stem Cells 1997; 15(suppl 1): 105–112
Shape Measure for Identifying Perceptually Informative Parts of 3D Objects

We propose a mathematical approach for quantifying shape complexity of 3D surfaces based on perceptual principles of visual saliency. Our curvature variation measure (CVM), as a 3D feature, combines surface curvature and information theory by leveraging bandwidth-optimized kernel density estimators. Using a part decomposition algorithm for digitized 3D objects, represented as triangle meshes, we apply our shape measure to transform the low level mesh representation into a perceptually informative form. Further, we analyze the effects of noise, sensitivity to digitization, occlusions, and descriptiveness to demonstrate our shape measure on laser-scanned real world 3D objects.
Dissolution of Suppositories IV: Effect of Crospovidone on Aspirin Release from Peg Bases

AbstractPrevious reports from this laboratory have described a suppository dissolution test apparatus as wall as the use of crospovidone to increase rate of release of acetaminophen from PEG suppositories. Also in previous reports from this lab, aspirin has been shown to give slow release from PEG bases and it was posited that addition of crospovidone to aspirin suppositories would also increase the rate of release. To test this hypothesis, four PEG blends were used as bases as in the previous studies. Each contained 350 mg of aspirin and 0.5%, 1%, or 5% of crospovidone (Polyplasdone XL, GAF). One thousand milliliters of phosphate buffer of pH 8.0 to approximately rectal pH was used as the dissolution media and maintained at 37.5°. A constant agitation rates of 25, and 50 rpm were used. Aspirin was assayed spectrophotometrically at 265 nm after appropriate dilution. Comparative dissolution profiles of the various agitation rates and with the concentrations of crospovidone were developed. Addition of crosp...
THE CONVERSION OF GLYCERATE INTO PYRUVATE BY CHLORELLA EXTRACTS

SUMMARY Cell-free extracts from autotrophically grown Chlorella convert glycerate to pyruvate by the reactions of glycolysis. It has already been demonstrated that exogenous glycollate is metabolized to glycerate by the reactions of the glycollate pathway in Chlorella. The activities of the constituent enzymes of glycolysis are great enough to account for the further metabolism of glycerate formed during the metabolism of exogenous glycollate by Chlorella.
Structural and electronic properties of WC.

We present the results of a pseudopotential local-orbital calculation on hexagonal WC. The calculated lattice constants and cohesive energy are in good agreement with experiment, and the calculated bulk modulus lies within the wide range of measured values. The band structure and Fermi surface obtained are also generally consistent with experimental data, and the Fermi level is found to lie in a deep minimum of the density of states. The calculated valence electron charge density indicates that the bonding in WC consists of a metallic component similar to that found in solid W, and strong W-C bonds.
Do drinking games matter? An examination by game type and gender in a mandated student sample

Background: College students who violate alcohol policies engage in riskier alcohol use and demonstrate more problems related to their use than non-violating peers. Drinking games (DG) have been linked to increased alcohol use and negative consequences. Objectives: The present study sought to assess potential differences in DG participation among mandated males and females by examining rates of endorsement, types of DG played, and how types of games are related to alcohol use and related consequences. Methods: Participant data were obtained from 154 undergraduate students mandated to receive an alcohol intervention, Results: DG players were found to have higher typical and peak blood alcohol concentrations, consume more drinks per week on average, consume more standard drinks per highest drinking occasion, and to experience a considerably greater number of alcohol-related consequences than non-players. Males endorsed greater participation in DG and cited "team" and "motor" games more often than females. "Gambling" games were endorsed equally by both sexes, but resulted in increased consequences for females only. Conclusion: Engaging in DG results in higher levels of alcohol consumption. The likelihood of consequences experienced may vary by type of DG in which individuals choose to participate, as well as by gender. Results from this study provide information that can be utilized in targeted alcohol programming efforts, not only for a high-risk population such as mandated students, but tailored to the specific needs of males and females. Language: en
Preparation of highly-reduced and highly-dispersed nickel catalysts

Abstract A method is described for preparing supported nickel catalysts by precipitation of nickel dimethyglyoxime (DMG) onto silica. Catalysts prepared by this method can be reduced at low temperature (498 K) and have both high dispersions and high percentage reductions to elemental nickel. For example, a 2.4% catalyst has a 71% reduction and a dispersion, based on reduced nickel, of 69%. These values are very much higher than for catalysts prepared by impregnation of nickel nitrate and reduced at similar conditions. A Ni(DMG) 2 , precipitation catalyst reduced at 498 K has a dispersion, based on total nickel, 100 times larger than an impregnation catalyst reduced at 498 K. A higher reduction temperature (700 K) for catalysts prepared by Ni(DMG) 2 precipitation results in 100% reduction but lower dispersion. This catalyst was characterized by temperature-programmed desorption of CO and H 2 and by temperature-programmed reaction to form methane. Significant differences were observed from nickel catalysts prepared by impregnation.
Simultaneous Inhibition of MEK and CDK4 Leads to Potent Apoptosis in Human Melanoma Cells

Deregulation of RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK and p16INK4A-cycylin D:CDK4/6-RB pathways is important for melanoma development. Chemotherapeutic agents targeting both pathways were developed but results of clinical studies with monotherapies were disappointing. We examined the effect of cotargeting both pathways with MEK inhibitor PD98059 and CDK4 inhibitor 219476 on human melanoma cells lines, and found that combinatorial treatment dramatically increased apoptosis compared to the single agent treatment. The apoptosis was associated with downregulation of BCL2, BCL2L1, BIRC5, and upregulation of BIM. Our results indicate that simultaneously targeting ERK and RB pathways is a promising strategy for melanoma treatment and should encourage further in-depth investigations.
Tropism of human pegivirus (formerly known as GB virus C/hepatitis G virus) and host immunomodulation: insights into a highly successful viral infection.

Human pegivirus (HPgV; originally called GB virus C/hepatitis G virus) is an RNA virus within the genus Pegivirus of the family Flaviviridae that commonly causes persistent infection. Worldwide, ~750 million people are actively infected (viraemic) and an estimated 0.75–1.5 billion people have evidence of prior HPgV infection. No causal association between HPgV and disease has been identified; however, several studies described a beneficial relationship between persistent HPgV infection and survival in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus. The beneficial effect appeared to be related to a reduction in host immune activation. HPgV replicates well in vivo (mean plasma viral loads typically >1×107 genome copies ml–1); however, the virus grows poorly in vitro and systems to study this virus are limited. Consequently, mechanisms of viral persistence and host immune modulation remain poorly characterized, and the primary permissive cell type(s) has not yet been identified. HPgV RNA is found in liver, spleen, bone marrow and PBMCs, including T- and B-lymphocytes, NK-cells, and monocytes, although the mechanism of cell-to-cell transmission is unclear. HPgV RNA is also present in serum microvesicles with properties of exosomes. These microvesicles are able to transmit viral RNA to PBMCs in vitro, resulting in productive infection. This review summarizes existing data on HPgV cellular tropism and the effect of HPgV on immune activation in various PBMCs, and discusses how this may influence viral persistence. We conclude that an increased understanding of HPgV replication and immune modulation may provide insights into persistent RNA viral infection of humans.
Norm's legacy: a perspective from the next generation

The leaps and bounds that software engineering education has made over the last severalyears has been greatly influenced by the pioneering work of Norman Gibbs, especially duringhis tenure as director of the Education Program of the Software Engineering Institute - cited byin 1999 by FASE as one of the Top Ten Contributions in software engineering education,training and professional issues of the 20th century - during the Program's first five years ofexistence. Virtually everyone working in the software engineering education field today hasbeen touched either directly or indirectly by the legacy Norm Gibbs left us. This talk willexamine the influence that Norm and the Education Program have had on the currentgeneration of the software engineering education community, including the author's personalexperiences.
Energy-efficient soft error-tolerant digital signal processing

In this paper, we present energy-efficient soft error-tolerant techniques for digital signal processing (DSP) systems. The proposed technique, referred to as algorithmic soft error-tolerance (ASET), employs low-complexity estimators of a main DSP block to achieve reliable operation in the presence of soft errors. Three distinct ASET techniques - spatial, temporal and spatio-temporal- are presented. For frequency selective finite-impulse response (FIR) filtering, it is shown that the proposed techniques provide robustness in the presence of soft error rates of up to P/sub er/=10/sup -2/ and P/sub er/=10/sup -3/ in a single-event upset scenario. The power dissipation of the proposed techniques ranges from 1.1 X to 1.7 X (spatial ASET) and 1.05 X to 1.17 X (spatio-temporal and temporal ASET) when the desired signal-to-noise ratio SNR/sub des/=25 dB. In comparison, the power dissipation of the commonly employed triple modular redundancy technique is 2.9 X.