cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role-Playing Games and Simulations for International Issues Courses

This paper proposes criteria that instructors should be sensitive to when evaluating simulations or role-plays for use in international/comparative politics courses. The potential benefits and drawbacks to these interactive exercises are addressed as well as the special circumstances that must be taken into consideration to reap the full promise of these teaching tools. The evidence of their effectiveness includes references to studies that have used control and experiment groups. A reviewed annotated bibliography that concentrates on new role playing games (RPGs) and simulations are included for newcomers and veterans alike to explore new possibilities for teaching courses with an international issues component.
Food defense in an aquaculture setting.

Developing an overall food protection program for aquaculture and its related food processing operations includes biosecurity and good aquaculture practices for husbandry operations, and good manufacturing practices, food safety (sanitation standard operating procedures, and hazard analysis critical control point) programs for processing. Because of recent intentional contamination incidents of food and feed, developing and implementing a food defense as part of an overall food safety and quality management system have become more critical. Recent developments in food defense, suitable preventive measures, mitigation strategies, and model implementation plans for an aquaculture operation are presented here.
Chemoresponsive viscosity switching of a metallo-supramolecular polymer network near the percolation threshold

The precise manipulation of network percolation, combined with the previously reported effects of the kinetics of cross-linking interactions, provide a mechanism by which to optimize the stimulus-responsive mechanical properties of supramolecular gels. Specific metal–ligand coordinative bonds create cross-links between poly(4-vinylpyridine) in DMSO, and an abrupt change in mechanical properties is observed at a critical concentration of cross-linker. The change in mechanical properties is attributed to the onset of percolation within the network, and bulk mechanical properties are shown to be especially sensitive to external stimuli in the vicinity of the percolation threshold. The reversible control of bulk mechanics is demonstrated, and the magnitude of the response (changes of up to five orders of magnitude in modulus) is determined by the concentration and dissociation kinetics of the cross-linkers. Combinations of cross-linkers, individually present at concentrations below the percolation threshold, provide a related mechanism by which complex viscoelastic switching can be programmed at the small-molecule level.
A Model for the Passivation of the Zinc Electrode in Alkaline Electrolyte

We have developed a model for the anodic dissolution and passivation of the zinc electrode in alkaline electrolyte. The model is based on postulated elementary reactions. Species on the electrode surface are assumed to follow Langmuir behavior. In previous work we proposed a model for the dissolution kinetics in the prepassive region. In the present investigation we have extended this model to include the passivation process. Using our model, we are able to simulate the general features of the current‐potential behavior. Effects of hydroxide concentration and mass transport rates on current‐potential curves are qualitatively predicted by the model.
Precrystallization clusters of holoferritin and apoferritin at low temperature

The formation of small nanosized clusters of the proteins holoferritin and apoferritin at low temperature was studied using small angle x-ray scattering. A strikingly large temperature dependence for the average molecular spacing in the clusters was observed. Calculations of the scattered intensity for various cluster models were performed. Comparison of the data with the simulations revealed the presence of crystalline order in the clusters of size ranging from a few molecules to a few hundred molecules. The crystalline order was found to be preserved with the lattice spacing varying with temperature by up to 20%. The small clusters were observed to grow into large micron-sized crystals when they were annealed and under certain conditions, the small clusters were found to coexist with the large crystals. This suggests that these clusters are closely related to critical nucleation. The data are consistent with an isotropic nucleation pathway, but cannot completely rule out a smaller presence of planar nucleation.
Inferring Viral Dynamics in Chronically HCV Infected Patients from the Spatial Distribution of Infected Hepatocytes

Chronic liver infection by hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major public health concern. Despite partly successful treatment options, several aspects of intrahepatic HCV infection dynamics are still poorly understood, including the preferred mode of viral propagation, as well as the proportion of infected hepatocytes. Answers to these questions have important implications for the development of therapeutic interventions. In this study, we present methods to analyze the spatial distribution of infected hepatocytes obtained by single cell laser capture microdissection from liver biopsy samples of patients chronically infected with HCV. By characterizing the internal structure of clusters of infected cells, we are able to evaluate hypotheses about intrahepatic infection dynamics. We found that individual clusters on biopsy samples range in size from infected cells. In addition, the HCV RNA content in a cluster declines from the cell that presumably founded the cluster to cells at the maximal cluster extension. These observations support the idea that HCV infection in the liver is seeded randomly (e.g. from the blood) and then spreads locally. Assuming that the amount of intracellular HCV RNA is a proxy for how long a cell has been infected, we estimate based on models of intracellular HCV RNA replication and accumulation that cells in clusters have been infected on average for less than a week. Further, we do not find a relationship between the cluster size and the estimated cluster expansion time. Our method represents a novel approach to make inferences about infection dynamics in solid tissues from static spatial data.
PREPARATION OF ORTHO-(ALKYLTHIO)PHENOLS OVER ZEOLITE CATALYSTS

Abstract Amorphous and crystalline (zeolite) aluminosilicates are good catalysts for the alkylthiolation of phenols with disulfides. Zeolites offer product selectivity via catalyst shape selectivity. Product distribution equilibrations are operative, and distributions depend upon reaction time, temperature, catalyst, and stoichiometry. Aluminosilicate and Bronsted acid catalysts give para-(alkylthio)phenols as the major kinetic product while metal phenoxides give ortho as the major. All catalysts give ortho as the major thermodynamic product.
Comments on “Distributed MMSE Relay Strategies for Wireless Sensor Networks”

This comment indicates that there is a typographical error in equation (62) of the title article.
Protein salting-out: Phase equilibria in two-protein systems

The phase behavior of two aqueous binary protein mixtures, lysozyme-chymotrypsin and lysozyme-ovalbumin, was determined in ammonium sulfate solutions. Protein concentrations were determined in both phases as a function of pH and ionic strength. For lysozyme-chymotrypsin mixtures, the observed phase behavior was similar to that for each individual protein; the presence of the second protein had little influence. The phase behavior of lysozyme-ovalbumin mixtures, however, was different from that of the respective single-protein systems. Lysozyme and ovalbumin are found together in egg whites; their association is both pH and ionic-strength dependent. The association of proteins is a key determinant of protein solubility in salt solutions.
Measuring the willingness to foster children with emotional and behavioral problems

Abstract Many children in foster care have emotional or behavioral problems or are at risk for these problems. It is important to identify parents willing to foster children with these problems in order to ensure placement, care, stability and well-being of such children. This study presents a new 40-item self-report measure of the willingness of parents to foster children with emotional and behavioral problems, and two 20-item parallel forms of this measure. In addition, this study presents evidence of reliability and validity of scores derived from these measures with a national sample of 297 foster mothers. Coefficient alpha for these measures was .92 or greater, indicating excellent internal consistency reliability. Scores from these measures were unrelated to demographic characteristics, providing evidence of discriminant validity. In addition, scores from these measures were higher for foster mothers licensed to provide treatment foster care than for mothers only licensed to provide regular foster care, providing support for known groups validity. Finally, support for construct validity is provided by the fact that foster mothers with higher scores on these measures had fostered longer, were fostering more children at the time of this study, and had fewer children removed from their home at their request.
Using teacher judgment for placement in college mathematics courses: An ethnographic case study at one Midwestern institution

Abstract The purpose of this ethnographic case study was to understand the process of making student placements into the mathematics curriculum at one Midwestern university. Historically, the department chair has used an expert teacher's intuitive-based judgment process to assess multiple academic documentations, rather than a more structured method for evaluating multi-faceted evidence of student ability. These measures include, but are not limited to, the ACT Mathematics sub-score (ACT-M), mathematics background, high school transcript, and high school grade point average (HSGPA). Though somewhat archaic, the process was highly individualized, flexible, and highly accurate for this particular institution. As many institutions collect similar information, the impact of using a flexible hierarchy of multiple measures may be applicable to other university's mathematics programs.
Fusion propulsion with a sheared helical flow stabilized z-pinch

Abstract A shear flow stabilized z-pinch has in the past been proposed as a propulsion device for space travel. In high density plasmas non-neutronic fusion chain reactions are possible, which are ideally suited for propulsion. In z-pinches, high densities are only possible if the magnetically confined plasma can be stabilized, but it has been shown that sheared helical flow has a stabilizing effect on z-pinch instabilities. A novel mechanism for producing sheared helical flow was first proposed in 1999. Here we present flow profiles that can provide the shear and also prevent the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability from growing at the plasma/ambient medium boundary.
Proton dissociation and transfer in proton exchange membrane ionomers with multiple and distinct pendant acid groups: An ab initio study

Abstract The role of the separation of the protogenic groups and side chain chemistry on proton dissociation and the energetics of proton transfer is compared on single side chain fragments of 3M multi acid side chain (MASC) ionomers. Three ionomers were considered each containing a bis(sulfonyl imide) group and a sulfonic acid group with structural and chemical differences mediating protogenic group separation: two structural isomers with protogenic group separation determined by the location of the sulfonic acid group on an aromatic ring (side chains: O(CF 2 ) 4 SO 2 (NH) SO 2 C 6 H 4 SO 3 H) with the sulfonic acid group located in either the meta or the ortho position) and a perfluorinated ionomer (PFIA) with protogenic groups separated by CF 2 groups (side chain: O(CF 2 ) 4 SO 2 (NH)SO 2 (CF 2 ) 3 SO 3 H). Optimized (B3LYP/6-311G**) geometries on isolated fragments revealed that differences in side chain chemistry and proximity of the protogenic groups resulted in charge delocalization effects that facilitated proton dissociation at low hydration levels. Specifically, direct hydrogen bonding between the acid groups in the ortho bis acid and electron withdrawing CF 2 groups in PFIA allowed for first proton dissociation at a lower hydration than the meta bis acid which lacked these effects. However, the tightly held intramolecular hydrogen bond in the ortho bis acid promoted interactions between water molecules and precluded dissociation of the second proton which required more water molecules to occur than the other MASC ionomers with more widely spread distribution of charge and hydrogen bonding. This was also realized through potential energy surface scans of proton transfer for second proton dissociation where the energetic penalty associated with proton transfer was found to be considerably higher in the ortho bis acid than the other MASC ionomers. The calculations reveal that the electron withdrawing CF 2 units between protogenic groups in the PFIA not only promote proton dissociation but also do not sterically fix the protogenic group separation, as with the aromatic-based MASC ionomers, allowing for the development of a hydrogen bond network that readily adjusts for the transfer of charge at low hydration levels.
Simple ethers as models of sugar molecules in calculations of vertical excitation energies of DNA and RNA nucleosides

The ribose and deoxyribose molecules of RNA and DNA nucleosides are substituted with simple model compounds 1-methoxy-2-ethanol and 1-methoxypropane to mimic the effect of binding to sugars on the vertical excitation energies of purine and pyrimidine bases. The (R)-1-methoxy-2-ethanol, CH3OC*HCH2OH, for model ribose nucleosides and (R)-1-methoxypropane, CH3OC*HC2H5, for model deoxyribose nucleosides have minimal structural characteristics of ribose and deoxyribose molecules when attached to nucleic acid purine and pyrimidine bases. The bases are attached to the C1 carbon atom designated by the asterisk. The vertical excitation energies of these model nucleosides are calculated with the time-dependent density functional theory method at the B3LYP level with 6-311++G(d,p) and aug-cc-pVDZ basis sets. The attachment of the ether molecules qualitatively and quantitatively modifies the excited state energy levels of the model nucleosides when compared to the free bases. These changes can affect the deexcitation...
Comparison of Some Algorithms for Solving the Group Theoretic Integer Programming Problem

Gomory has shown that the group-theoretic problem associated with an integer programming problem can be treated as a shortest-route problem. Thus one may solve it by a standard shortest-route algorithm. However, because of the special properties of the constructed problem, one can simplify and modify the algorithm. This paper presents five such simplified algorithms and compares their computational results with the group-theoretic algorithms developed by Gomory, Hu, and Shapiro.
Complexity and contradiction in clinical trial research

Randomized clinical trials have become the accepted scientific standard for evaluating therapeutic efficacy. Contradictory results from multiple randomized clinical trials on the same topic have been attributed either to methodologic deficiencies in the design of one of the trials or to small sample sizes that did not provide assurance that a meaningful therapeutic difference would be detected. When 36 topics with conflicting results that included over 200 randomized clinical trials in cardiology and gastroenterology were reviewed, it was discovered that results of randomized clinical trials often disagree because the complexity of the randomized clinical trial design and the clinical setting creates inconsistencies and variation in the therapeutic evaluation. Nine methodologic sources of this variation were identified, including six items concerned with the design of the trials, and three items concerned with interpretation. The design issues include eligibility criteria and the selection of study groups, baseline differences in the available population, variability in indications for the principal and concomitant therapies, protocol requirements of the randomized clinical trial, and management of intermediate outcomes. The issues in interpreting the trials include the regulatory effects of treatments, the frailty of double-blinding, and the occurrence of unexpected trial outcomes. The results of this review suggest that pooled analyses of conflicting results of randomized clinical trials (meta-analyses) may be misleading by obscuring important distinctions among trials, and that enhanced flexibility in strategies for data analysis will be needed to ensure the clinical applicability of randomized clinical trial results.
A new rodent model of hind limb penetrating wound injury characterized by continuous primary and secondary hyperalgesia

Abstract This article reports the development of a new hind limb pain model in which an incisional stab wound is placed on the front and back of the calf, causing both superficial and deep tissue injury. The injury causes primary mechanical hyperalgesia on the calf and secondary hind paw hyperalgesia, which served as the focus of the present study. Animals with unilateral stab wounds showed a significant increase in percent paw withdrawal (secondary mechanical hyperalgesia, reversed by morphine administration) from 2 to 48 hours after surgery, but no evidence of thermal hyperalgesia. In contrast, animals with bilateral leg injuries showed bilateral secondary mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia. Rats with unilateral leg incisional stab wounds showed a significant decrease in cage activity in both the horizontal and vertical directions, monitored by using a novel activity box approach, as compared to their 24-hour baseline levels or to the activity of naive animals. Analysis of spinal cord Fos labeling demonstrated that calf injury significantly increased Fos expression in laminae I to VI of the L3-L5 cord segments. The data indicate that this model might be useful for evaluation of the mechanisms underlying penetrating injury–induced primary and secondary hyperalgesia or for testing the effect of analgesics on hyperalgesia induced by such injury. Perspective Stab wounds and other types of penetrating wounds routinely encountered in emergency rooms and clinics are accompanied by pain associated with superficial and deep tissue injury. Here we present a rodent stab wound model that affords an opportunity to study the mechanisms of pain associated with traumatic injury.
Communication Network Patterns and the Re-invention of New Technology:

This study examined the relationship between re-invention implementation and employee communication network variables (activity, size, diversity, and integrative ness) in a field study of 137 employees from a corporate office. In this organization, one employee discovered an improved method (a re-invention) for using a new computer system. Multiple regression analysis revealed significant positive relationships be tween three network factors (network diversity, network integrativeness and network size) and the speed with which employees implemented the re-invention.
Central excitatory actions of flurazepam.

Abstract Toxic actions of flurazepam (FZP) were studied in cats, mice and rats. High doses caused an apparent central excitation, most clearly seen as clonic convulsions, superimposed on general depression. Following a lethal dose, death was always associated with convulsions. Comparing the relative sensitivity to central depression and excitation revealed that rats were least likely to have convulsions at doses that did not first cause loss of consciousness, while cats most clearly showed marked central excitatory actions. Signs of FZP toxicity in cats included excessive salivation, extreme apprehensive behavior, retching, muscle tremors and convulsions. An interaction between FZP and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) was shown by pretreating mice with FZP before PTZ challenge. As a function of dose, FZP first protected against convulsions and death. At higher doses, however, convulsions again emerged. These doses of FZP were lower than those that would alone cause convulsions. These results may be relevant to the use of FZP in clinical situations in which there is increased neural excitability, such as epilepsy or sedative-hypnotic drug withdrawal.
A non-unique relationship between potential energy surface barrier and dynamical diffusion barrier: fcc (111) metal surface

Abstract We present results from molecular dynamics simulations of the diffusion of a single metal atom on the surface of a fcc (111) metal. The central point that is addressed is the relationship between features of the potential energy surface and the diffusion rate when the surface (energy) corrugation is small. The systems considered here are Ag and Ag(111) and Rh on Rh(111). The interatomic forces were predicted using an approximation to the many-body non-self-consistent density functional based corrected effective medium theory (with acronym MD/MC-CEM), and an empirical Morse potential energy surface. Both potential energy forms are completely specified by the properties of the bulk systems, with the former also predicting very good values of surface energies on low Miller index surfaces and diffusion barriers on fcc (001) surfaces. Diffusion rates were extracted from the long time behavior of the adatom's mean square displacement and were found to obey an Arrhenius-type dependence on temperature. Good agreement with experimental diffusion rates was found with both potential energy surfaces. A different potential energy surface with much larger energy corrugation also yields agreement with experiment. We conclude that diffusion on these atomically smooth surfaces is governed by correlated dynamical behavior which eliminates the possibility of a unique extraction of the corrugation profile from experimental data.
SPINOIDAL DECOMPOSITION NEAR A LIFSHITZ POINT

Near a Lifshitz point, there is a deep minimum of the electronic energy. This minimum can lead to a spinoidal decomposition for carrier concentrations near the Lifshitz point. Such a two-phase mixture would be an ideal candidate for excitonic superconductivity.
The corpus callosum: Some anatomical and functional considerations with special reference to language

Abstract Recent studies on the anatomy and development of the corpus callosum (CC) are reviewed, and discussed in relation to present theories of the function of the CC. The contributions of various pathological conditions of the CC, as well as that of the split-brain studies, to the understanding of the functions of the CC are considered. The recent theory that the language dominant hemisphere exerts inhibitory influences over the nondominant hemisphere via the CC did not receive much support, and an alternative theory implicating the CC in the establishment of lateralization of language is presented. Direct evidence for this view is as yet not available, but it receives some support from cases of agenesis of the CC.
Inducible atrial flutter after the Mustard repair of complete transposition of the great arteries.

Abstract Atrial flutter is a common postoperative arrhythmia in patients with complete transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) after the Mustard repair. Sixty patients with d-TGA who had the Mustard repair were evaluated by electrophysiologic studies. Thirty-three (55%) had inducible sustained atrial flutter; 17 of them developed spontaneous clinical episodes of atrial flutter (clinical atrial flutter group) and 16 did not (nonclinical atrial flutter group). In 6 of the 17 patients (35%) with clinical inducible atrial flutter, the condition was first documented in the electrophysiologic laboratory with subsequent development of spontaneous clinical episodes. Catheter endocardial mapping, used to determine atrial activation sequences and conduction intervals, revealed intraatrial conduction delays with late activation of the low atrial sites in all patients. Abnormalities of atrial refractoriness were present, with a greater dispersion of atrial refractoriness found in the clinical atrial flutter group. Severe abnormalities of sinus nodal function appeared to a significantly greater degree among patients who had clinical episodes of atrial flutter. These electrophysiologic abnormalities and associated arrhythmias may predispose patients with d-TGA to sudden death.
Ultrafilters and multidimensional Ramsey Theorems

Utilizing ultrafilters on the setN of natural numbers which have certain special properties, we prove some simultaneous generalizations of Ramsey's Theorem and several single dimension Ramsey-type theorems. (For instance, as a very special case, we obtain a simultaneous generalization of Ramsey's Theorem and van der Waerden's Theorem.) Examples are given to show directions in which these results cannot be extended.
A MORPHOLOGIC COMPARISON BETWEEN THE DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES OF HERPES ZOSTER AND HUMAN CYTOMEGALOVIRUS.

Abstract Human embryonic lung fibroblasts infected with either herpes zoster or human cytomegalovirus were fixed and prepared for ultrathin sectioning and were examined in the electron microscope. Virus particles were found in nuclear, cytoplasmic, and extracellular locations. There was a significant size difference between particles found in the nucleus and those found either in the cytoplasm or outside the cells. Virus particles in the nucleus consisted of a nucleoid 45 mμ in diameter surrounded by a single envelope giving a particle diameter of 110 mμ. Cytoplasmic and extracellular particles contained in addition at least one other coat bringing the total diameter to at least 150 mμ. Similar results were obtained with herpes zoster and human cytomegalovirus. There is morphologic evidence that final maturation of these virus particles occurs at the nuclear rather than the plasma membrane. However, many cytoplasmic and extracellular particles were found at sites where there appeared to be a number of coats leading to an onion-like appearance. These additional coats may be applied at cytoplasmic membranes or within delimited cytoplasmic matrices.
Regular combings, nonpositive curvature and the quasiconvexity of abelian subgroups

Abstract We study the geometry of abelian subgroups relative to combings (normal forms) of automatic groups and groups which act properly and cocompactly on spaces of nonpositive curvature. We prove that in general combings which arise in the latter context are incompatible (in a sense which we make precise) with regular combings, the fundamental objects of automatic group theory.
A real challenger of a puzzle

Submissions should be sent electronically to CHANCE editor, Mike Larsen, at mlarsen@bsc.gwu.edu by January 28, 2010. From among entries that correctly identify the origins of these data points, explain how the solution is obtained (using the hints), and provide a clear graphical interpretation of the data, one winner will be selected to receive a one-year (extension of his or her) subscription to CHANCE. As an added incentive, a picture and short biography of the winner will be published in a subsequent issue. Faculty, students, and recent graduates (since 1/1/2009) from Utah State University and winners of the Goodness of Wit puzzles or graphics contest from any of the three previous issues are not eligible to win this contest. CONTEST A Real Challenger of a Puzzle
Transcranial Doppler assessment of cerebral vasospasm

This review summarizes the use of transcranial Doppler (TCD) for assessment of cerebral vasospasm. The basic hemodynamic principles are presented, and used as a basis for discussing findings and interpretation methods. The need for additional information and measurements to correctly interpret TCD velocities is analyzed, and the use of a special extracranial Doppler technique is recommended. The advantages and limitations of the 'Lindegaard Index' (LI) are discussed. The recent advances in the use of TCD for cerebral autoregulation testing are opening up a new and promising avenue in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of cerebral vasospasm.
Chylotamponade: an unusual presentation of Gorham's syndrome.

Abstract Gorham's Syndrome, also known as massive osteolysis or "vanishing bone disease" results from lymphangiomatosis with adjacent bone resorption. Chylothorax is a common complication in cases of mediastinal involvement. We report a case of Gorham's Syndrome presenting as chylotamponade successfully treated with pericardial drainage, early parenteral nutritional support, bilateral pleurodesis for chylous effusions, and adjuvant external beam radiation.
Types of Pain Treatment Facilities and Referral Selection Criteria: A Review

Family physicians often come in contact with patients who suffer from chronic pain. These patients present a treatment challenge and may require referral to a pain treatment facility. The purpose of this review is to define and clarify the current concept of a pain treatment facility and delineate the different types of treatment facilities available. Possible selection criteria for referral to such facilities are suggested, with the rationale for the selection of these criteria. The role of the family physician in the treatment by a by a special facility of a patient with chronic pain is discussed. By definition, pain treatment facilities differ. The family physician should be aware of these differences and selection criteria for referral to such facilities.
Marketing and Economic Development: Review, Synthesis and Evaluation

The authors present a review, synthesis and evaluation of the published works on marketing and economic development o ver the last 30 years. Future research directions are also provided.
Temperature dependence of electrical resistivity of vanadium, platinum, and copper

The electrical resistivities of V, Pt, and Cu (resistance ratios of 387, 7192, and 2047, respectively) were measured in the temperature range 6-327 K, and were analyzed following the theories of Bloch-Gr\"uneisen and Wilson. An excellent fit to the data was obtained over the entire temperature range. The low-temperature (6-12 K) data were analyzed for the existence of a quadratic temperature dependence; the V and Pt exhibited quadratic temperature dependences with coefficients of 370 and 110 f\ensuremath{\Omega} m ${\mathrm{K}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$, respectively. The data did not support the use of a quadratic term over the entire temperature range.
SOCS2-Induced Proteasome-Dependent TRAF6 Degradation: A Common Anti-Inflammatory Pathway for Control of Innate Immune Responses

Pattern recognition receptors and receptors for pro-inflammatory cytokines provide critical signals to drive the development of protective immunity to infection. Therefore, counter-regulatory pathways are required to ensure that overwhelming inflammation harm host tissues. Previously, we showed that lipoxins modulate immune response during infection, restraining inflammation during infectious diseases in an Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)/suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS)2-dependent-manner. Recently, Indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3- dioxygenase (IDO)-derived tryptophan metabolites, including L-kynurenine, were also shown to be involved in several counter-regulatory mechanisms. Herein, we addressed whether the intracellular molecular events induced by lipoxins mediating control of innate immune signaling are part of a common regulatory pathway also shared by L-kynurenine exposure. We demonstrate that Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor (TRAF)6 – member of a family of adapter molecules that couple the TNF receptor and interleukin-1 receptor/Toll-like receptor families to intracellular signaling events essential for the development of immune responses – is targeted by both lipoxins and L-kynurenine via an AhR/SOCS2-dependent pathway. Furthermore, we show that LXA4- and L-kynurenine-induced AhR activation, its subsequent nuclear translocation, leading SOCS2 expression and TRAF6 Lys47-linked poly-ubiquitination and proteosome-mediated degradation of the adapter proteins. The in vitro consequences of such molecular interactions included inhibition of TLR- and cytokine receptor-driven signal transduction and cytokine production. Subsequently, in vivo proteosome inhibition led to unresponsiveness to lipoxins, as well as to uncontrolled pro-inflammatory reactions and elevated mortality during toxoplasmosis. In summary, our results establish proteasome degradation of TRAF6 as a key molecular target for the anti-inflammatory pathway triggered by lipoxins and L-kynurenine, critical counter-regulatory mediators in the innate and adaptive immune systems.
Laboratory Studies of OBrO

UV/vis absorption cross sections for gas phase OBrO at room temperature were measured using a fast gas flow absorption cell and a diode array spectrometer. The OBrO concentration was determined by chemical titration NO + OBrO → NO2 + BrO (1) with quantitative measurement of the NO2 product by UV absorption. The cross section at the peak of the C 2A2 (710) ← X 2B1 (000) transition, ∼491 nm, was determined to be (1.8 ± 0.5) × 10-17 cm2 molecule-1. During these measurements another gas phase UV absorber was observed to originate from the OBrO source. The possible identity of this species and its influence on the OBrO absorption cross section determination are discussed.
The Legend of St. Juliana from Lambeth MS 72

(2005). The Legend of St. Juliana from Lambeth MS 72. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 18, No. 4, pp. 9-15.
Survival studies after endoscopic transgastric oophorectomy and tubectomy in a porcine model

Background Advances in endoscopic equipment have enabled endoluminal techniques to supplant select surgical procedures. Access to extraluminal structures holds the potential to revolutionize flexible endoscopy but, to date, has been limited. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of endoscopic transgastric organ resection (oophorectomy and tubectomy) with 2-week survival. Methods Female Yorkshire pigs underwent general anesthesia, and a sterile esophageal overtube was placed. Antibacterial gastric lavage was performed, and a sterile gastroscope was passed through the overtube. Subsequently, a transgastric incision was made with a needle knife. The endoscope then was advanced into the peritoneal cavity, and the ovaries and the fallopian tubes were identified. An endoloop was used to secure the ovary, the fallopian tube, and the mesosalpinx. Snare cautery oophorectomy and tubectomy was performed, and the specimen was retrieved through the gastrotomy. The incision was closed with endoclips, and 2-week survival studies were performed. Observations The peritoneal cavity was accessed in all animals (n = 6) without significant complications. The ovaries and the fallopian tubes were easily identified, and unilateral oophorectomy and tubectomy were successfully performed. Postoperative 2-week survival was uneventful in all animals. At necropsy, the gastric incision was seen as a well-healed scar with giant-cell reaction. There was histologic evidence of chronic inflammation at the resection site, without abscess, hematoma, adhesion, or damage to surrounding viscera. Conclusions Endoscopic transgastric oophorectomy and tubectomy with 2-week survival is feasible with meticulous closure of the gastrotomy. This novel technique may extend the applications of flexible endoscopy to include aspects of abdominal surgery.
The interstellar carbon budget and the role of carbon in dust and large molecules.

Published data on stellar composition show that carbon in the sun is substantially more abundant than in other stars. A carbon abundance of 225 carbon atoms per 106 hydrogen atoms is representative of galactic stars, whereas published values for the sun range from 350 to 470 carbon atoms per 106 hydrogen atoms. Other elements are also present in enhanced quantities in the solar system, consistent with suggestions that a supernova event was closely associated with the formation of the solar system. The overabundance of carbon in the solar system has many important implications, including new constraints on nucleosynthesis models for supernovae and substantial modification of the so-called “cosmic” composition normally adopted in discussions of galactic and interstellar abundances. A reduction in the galactic carbon budget, as suggested by the stellar composition data, strongly constrains the quantity of carbon that is available for the formation of interstellar dust, and some dust models now appear implausible because they require more carbon than is available.
Vierseitig gelagerte Rechteckplatten mit veränderlicher Dicke unter Gleichlast und hydrostatischer Belastung.

Ermittlung der Schnittgrossen fur die vierseitig gelagerte Platte mit linear veranderlicher Dicke. Anwendung vor allem fur den Behalter- und Wasserbau
Left ventricular failure complicating severe pediatric burn injuries

Abstract Purpose: Despite improvements in the overall survival rates for critically burned children, failed resuscitation may account for 54% of deaths following burn injuries. Clinical and experimental studies have implicated failure of the right side of the heart in adults, biventricular failure in elderly patients, and inadequate resuscitation as causes of refractory burn shock. This retrospective study of resuscitation at a tertiary pediatric burn center showed that myocardial depression is a complicating factor in the treatment of the pediatric burn victim. Methods: From 1989 to 1992, 28 critically burned children (≥60% total burn surface area) were resuscitated primarily at our center (admission within 24 hours of injury). Twenty-seven children had central lines, nine of whom underwent pulmonary artery catheterization for intensive hemodynamic monitoring because standard resuscitative therapy had failed. The average amount of fluid received at 8 and 24 hours after injury was within 10% of the calculated volume based on the Parkland formula. Results: Indexes of a failing rescue attempt included respiratory distress (Pao2Fio2≤200), central venous pressure of greater than 10 mm Hg, and urine output of less than 1 mL/kg/h. Filling pressures were found to be normal or elevated in all children, indicating adequate volume replacement. Evaluation of cardiac function was performed using a thermodilution technique and showed that 100% of the study group had depressed left ventricular function, with an average left ventricular stroke work index (LVSWI) of 19.9 g·m/m 2 (normal, 44 to 68 g·m/m 2 ), whereas only 38% had concomitant right ventricular failure. This left-sided dysfunction persisted throughout the acute resuscitation period but was improved after appropriate modification of fluid resuscitation and initiation of vasopressors (average final LVSWI, 38.0 g·m/m 2 ). There were no complications from placement of the Swan-Ganz catheters in this group. Conclusion: Cardiogenic failure is a major determinant of a failing pediatric burn resuscitation, and, contrary to the adult burn patient, the myocardial depression is predominantly left-sided. Information from pulmonary artery catheters can help direct therapy by providing indications for vasopressors and modifying fluid resuscitation.
Cabazitaxel-induced stabilization of microtubules enhances radiosensitivity in ovarian cancer cells.

Background: Up to 40% of women with ovarian cancer have short disease-free intervals due to molecular mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance. New therapeutic strategies are sought. Ovarian cancers are sensitive to radiochemotherapy. The taxane cabazitaxel (XRP6258, Jevtana) promotes tubulin assembly and stabilizes microtubules against depolymerization in cells, acting similarly in mechanism to paclitaxel. Here, sequences of cabazitaxel-radiation co-administration are tested for drug-alone cytotoxicity and optimal radiosensitization. Methods: SKOV3, OVCAR3, and TOV-112D ovarian cancer cells were administered cabazitaxel 24 h before (first), 18 h before (second), together (third), or 24 h after (fourth) a single radiation dose, and then, investigated by clonogenic assay and flow cytometric assays. Radiation dose-cell survival data were fitted by two-stage multivariate analyses of variance. High content flow cytometry partitioned cabazitaxel effects into G2-phase versus M-phase events by DNA content, cyclin A2, and phospho-S10-histone H3 (PHH3). Paclitaxel served as a comparator. Findings: Cabazitaxel cytotoxicity and radiosensitization were dose dependent. Cabazitaxel added 24 h before radiation was the most lethal schedule. DNA content measurements by flow cytometry showed that cabazitaxel-treated cells accumulated in the radiosensitive G2/M 4C DNA complement compartment. Cytometry also showed that surviving cabazitaxel-induced cell cycle arrested cells resolve the arrest by entering 4C or by 8C DNA complement cell cycles. Interpretation: The radiosensitizing effect of cabazitaxel was schedule dependent, due to cell cycle redistribution, and best when cabazitaxel was given 24 h before radiation. Clinical trials of administering both cabazitaxel and radiation should be explored in women with chemoresistant ovarian cancer. Funding: Case Comprehensive Cancer Center and Sanofi-Aventis
Gaps and Barriers in Services for Children in State Mental Health Plans

Significant gaps exist in children’s mental healthcare, and barriers prevent access to existing services. Current federal initiatives call for state governmental agencies to recognize and resolve deficits in their systems of care. Previous work has acknowledged some of the problems in meeting the mental health needs of children within a system of care. This current project sought to discriminate between gaps (e.g., non-existent services) and barriers (e.g., problems that prevent access to existing services) within state mental health care plans. Because acknowledging barriers and gaps in mental health services is a step towards systems improvement, the present project describes how state governments recognize the limits of their children’s mental health care systems. We analyzed state mental health plans submitted to the federal government in applications for block grant funds. Results illustrate that a varied number of gaps and barriers are acknowledged in state plans. Overall, 90% of state plans discussed barriers and 84% of state plans discussed service gaps. The gap most frequently recognized was lack of providers (74%), while lack of funding (52%) was the most common barrier. This project points to some recognition of system limits in the states and reflects potential efforts to create policies for system improvement for children and families.
Hyperspectral Microwave Atmospheric Sounder (HyMAS) architecture and design accommodations

The Hyperspectral Microwave Atmospheric Sounder (HyMAS) is being developed at Lincoln Laboratories and accommodated by the Goddard Space Flight Center for a flight opportunity on a NASA research aircraft. The term “hyperspectral microwave” is used to indicate an all-weather sounding that performs equivalent to hyperspectral infrared sounders in clear air with vertical resolution of approximately 1 km. Deploying the HyMAS equipped scanhead with the existing Conical Scanning Microwave Imaging Radiometer (CoSMIR) shortens the path to a flight demonstration. Hyperspectral microwave is achieved through the use of independent RF antennas that sample the volume of the Earth's atmosphere through various levels of frequencies, thereby producing a set of dense, spaced vertical weighting functions. The simulations proposed for HyMAS 118/183-GHz system should yield surface precipitation rate and water path retrievals for small hail, soft hail, or snow pellets, snow, rainwater, etc. with accuracies comparable to those of the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder. Further improvements in retrieval methodology (for example, polarization exploitation) are expected.
TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR BETA MEDIATES HEPATOCYTE APOPTOSIS THROUGH SMAD3 GENERATION OF REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES

TGFbeta induces hepatocyte apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT), and caspase activation. The role of the Smad pathway in these events is unknown. In this study primary hepatocytes were isolated from Smad3 wild-type (+/+) and knockout (-/-) mice, and were treated with TGFbeta (5ng/ml) and/or trolox (2mM). ROS generation, MPT, TGFbeta-dependent transcription, and apoptosis were assessed in the presence or absence of Smad3 wild-type (WT) and dominant-negative (DN) plasmids. With TGFbeta treatment, Smad3 (-/-) hepatocytes did not generate ROS activity, exhibit MPT, activate caspases, or undergo apoptosis when compared to Smad 3 (+/+) hepatocytes. Similarly, transfection of Smad3 (+/+) hepatocytes with DN-Smad3 inhibited TGFbeta-mediated transcription, ROS generation, MPT, and apoptosis. However, Smad3 (-/-) cells transfected with WT-Smad3 and treated with TGFbeta demonstrated increased transcriptional activity, the MPT, and TGFbeta-induced apoptosis. TGFbeta-mediated ROS generation occurred through an NADPH-like oxidase pathway since diphenyleneiodonium chloride inhibited ROS induction. In conclusion, TGFbeta-induced hepatocyte apoptosis occurs through Smad3 dependent activation of ROS with subsequent activation of the MPT and caspases.
Dynamic in vitro quantification of bioprosthetic heart valve leaflet motion using structured light projection.

Quantification of heart valve leaflet deformation during the cardiac cycle is essential in understanding normal and pathological valvular function, as well as in the design of replacement heart valves. Due to the technical complexities involved, little work to date has been performed on dynamic valve leaflet motion. We have developed a novel experimental method utilizing a noncontacting structured laser-light projection technique to investigate dynamic leaflet motion. Using a simulated circulatory loop, a matrix of 150–200 laser light points were projected over the entire leaflet surface. To obtain unobstructed views of the leaflet surface, a stereo system of high-resolution boroscopes was used to track the light points at discrete temporal points during the cardiac cycle. The leaflet surface at each temporal point was reconstructed in three dimensions, and fit using our biquintic hermite finite element approach (Smith et al., Ann. Biomed. Eng. 26:598–611, 2001). To demonstrate our approach, we utilized a bovine pericardial bioprosthetic heart valve, which revealed regions of complex flexural deformation and substantially different shapes during the opening and closing phases. In conclusion, the current method has high spatial and temporal resolution and can reconstruct the entire surface of the cusp simultaneously. Because it is completely noncontacting, this approach is applicable to studies of fatigue and bioreactor technology for tissue engineered heart valves. © 2001 Biomedical Engineering Society. PAC01: 8719Hh, 8780-y, 4262Be, 8719St
The influence of source physical attractiveness on advertising effectiveness: a functional perspective

High and low self-monitors heard either a physically attractive or unattractive source promote a new product with either strong or weak arguments. High self-monitors were persuaded by the physically attractive source only when she presented strong arguments. In contrast, low self-monitoring individuals were persuaded by the physically attractive source regardless of argument strength. Neither high nor low self-monitors were persuaded by the physically unattractive source, regardless of the quality of the arguments she offered. Cognitive response and recall data suggest that high self-monitors may have been systematically processing the physically attractive source's message and low self-monitors may have been more heuristically processing her message. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for advertising strategies.