cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combating the Impact of Video Compression on Non-Contact Vital Sign Measurement Using Supervised Learning

Imaging photoplethysmography (iPPG) and imaging ballistocardiography (iBCG) are popular approaches for unobtrusive camera-based measurement of vital signs. These involve recovering pulse signals from very subtle variations in video pixel intensities, which are easily corrupted by noise. Therefore, while the signal might be easy to obtain from high quality uncompressed videos, the signal-to-noise ratio drops linearly with video bit-rate. Uncompressed videos require large amounts of storage making them prohibitive to store, stream and transfer in large quantities. By learning compression specific models we show that supervised learning can be used to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of pulse signals and reduce the mean absolute error (MAE) of heart rate estimates extracted from temporally compressed videos. We perform a systematic evaluation of the performance of our algorithm showing that the network trained on compressed videos consistently outperforms the model trained on the original less compressed compressed videos, both on videos with and without significant head motions. We found improvements in SNR of up to 8 dB and MAE of 6 BPM.
Peripheral CD4 T follicular cells induced by a conjugated pneumococcal vaccine correlate with enhanced opsonophagocytic antibody responses in younger individuals

Abstract Background PCV13 (conjugated polysaccharide) and PPSV23 (polysaccharide only) are two licensed vaccines targeting S. pneumoniae. The role of CD4 T-cell responses in pneumococcal vaccines among healthy participants and their impact on antibodies is not yet known. Methods Ten adults (5 old and 5 young) received PCV13 (prime) and a year later PPSV23 (boost). Blood samples were collected prior to and multiple time points after vaccination. CD4 T cells responding to CRM197, polysaccharide (PS), CRM197 conjugated polysaccharide (CPS), PCV13 and PPSV23 vaccines were measured by flow cytometry. Serum antibodies were analyzed via multiplex opsonophagocytosis (MOPA) and pneumococcal IgG assays. Results Vaccine-specific CD4 T cells were induced in all ten vaccinees post PCV13. Older vaccinees mounted higher peak responses and those specific for PCV13 and conjugated PS-1 were more polyfunctional compared to the younger group. Vaccine-elicited peripheral T follicular helper (Tfh) cells were only detected in the younger group who also exhibited a higher fold change in OPA titers post both vaccines. Importantly, Tfh cells following PCV13 correlated only with PCV13 serotype specific OPA titers after PPSV23 vaccination. Conclusions These findings demonstrate age related differences in immune response and the potential importance of Tfh in modulating functional antibody responses following pneumococcal vaccination.
POSITRON ANNIHILATION IN CONCENTRATED METAL-AMMONIA SOLUTIONS

The annihilation photons from positrons annihilating in metal-ammonia solutions indicate the presence of a bound system at the time of annihilation. This can be attributed to either bound (localized) electrons or to the formation of substantial amounts of a bound system induced by the presence of the positron (such as positronium). The situation persists up to concentrations as high as 94 per cent caesium in ammonia. Both alternatives seem improbable.
Loop Ileostomy- Laparoscopic

A loop ileostomy is usually performed to divert the fecal stream in order to allow more distal lesions to heal adequately. They can be complicated by electrolyte abnormalities and the output needs to be closely monitored. The technical aspects of the procedure are of paramount importance in order to avoid an iatrogenic obstruction. This chapter discusses the laparoscopic creation of a loop ileostomy.
Tips and Tricks for Adapting to Single Port Robotic Surgery

Study Objective Demonstrate ways of successfully navigating inherent limitations to the robotic single port surgical modality in the context of hysterectomy. Design Demonstration of surgical technique. Setting Academic medical center. Patients or Participants Women undergoing robotic single port surgery for benign indications. Interventions Robotic single port surgery using the SP1098 da Vinci SP® Surgical System. Measurements and Main Results The primary challenges with single port surgery are optimizing visualization and instrument mobility. The camera can be moved in a traditional fashion, or be cobra-ed, in which the camera retracts and is lifted above or below the instruments to allow for optimal utilization of space. It is best to keep the instruments as extended into the pelvis as is comfortable to allow the surgeon to engage the elbows of the instruments. Obtaining traction of tissue is limited with the single port robot. Medial traction and cephalad traction along the axis of the trocar is not restricted; however, adequate lateral or anterior traction is more challenging to obtain. The single port trocar accommodates a maximum of three instruments. However, two instruments are sufficient to achieve most surgical goals. If the fourth aperture of the trocar is not in use, a laparoscopic instrument can be inserted by the bedside assistant. Unfortunately, the assistant's mobility is greatly restricted. Movement of any laparoscopic instrument is restricted to the axis of the single port trocar. Conclusion Robotic single port gynecologic surgery is achievable with minimal adjustments to surgical technique. Optimizing visualization and instrument mobility is key for successful use of this surgical modality.
Mathematics of Gas Ingress of Hermetic Packages

We have derived a gas ingress and egress equation from the first principles of ideal gases. This work is intended to benefit the hermetic microelectronics packaging community, but it may be applied to other fields that require a deep understanding of gas ingress and egress dynamics. The equation outlined herein encompasses package material properties, package characteristics, hermetic testing conditions, and service conditions. It serves as a practical utility for calculating package pressure changes due to gas ingress and egress and, therefore, a power tool for component and system service life predictions.
Noisy Breathing in an Infant: A Case Report.

The diagnosis of vascular rings is challenging and may be delayed as symptoms overlap with more common conditions associated with childhood. Underlying genetic associations of this condition remain largely undiscovered. In this report, we present a patient with a double aortic arch and highlight the importance of diagnostic imaging. We also engage in a review of the important genetic considerations.
Harm Reduction Associated with Dual Use of Cigarettes and e-Cigarettes in Black and Latino Smokers: Secondary Analyses from a Randomized Controlled e-Cigarette Switching Trial.

INTRODUCTION Most adult cigarette smokers who use e-cigarettes are dual cigarette and e-cigarette (CC-EC) users, yet little is known about relative consumption of cigarettes to e-cigarettes and any associated harm reduction. METHODS Rate of substitution from cigarettes to e-cigarettes at week 6 and change in biomarkers of exposure and potential harm were examined among dual dual cigarette and e-cigarette users [64/114 (56%); 35 Black, 29 Latino] in an e-cigarette switching randomized trial. RESULTS Dual users averaged 79% substitution of cigarettes for e-cigarettes at week 6, resulting in a reduction from baseline of 70.0 ± 54.1 cigarettes per week (p < .001). Total nicotine consumption remained stable (baseline: 1160.5 ± 1042.1 pg/mL of cotinine, week 6: 1312.5 ± 1725.9 pg/mL of cotinine, p = .47), while significant reductions were seen in the potent lung carcinogen 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridul)-1-butanol (NNAL) (-55.9 ± 88.6 ng/ml, p < .001), carbon monoxide (-6.3 ± 8.6 ppm, p < .001), and self-reported respiratory symptoms (-3.3 ± 8.0, p = .002). No significant changes were found in blood pressure or spirometry. Greater substitution from cigarettes to e-cigarettes was associated with larger reductions in NNAL (r = -.29, p = .02). CONCLUSIONS The predominant dual-use pattern was characterized by regular e-cigarette and intermittent cigarette use. Findings demonstrate the short-term harm reduction potential of this dual-use pattern in Black and Latino smokers and suggest that the greatest benefit, aside from cessation of both products, is achieved by higher substitution of e-cigarettes for cigarettes. Findings need confirmation in a larger sample with longer follow-up in dual users with greater variability in the rate of substitution. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER NCT03511001. IMPLICATIONS Findings suggest short-term harm reduction potential of dual cigarette-e-cigarette use for Black and Latino smokers. Results also demonstrate the heterogeneity of dual-use, with the greatest harm reduction seen in dual users with higher rates of substitution from cigarettes to e-cigarettes. Study results should be confirmed in a full clinical trial with long-term follow-up to evaluate maintenance of dual-use patterns and associated harm reduction potential over time.
Associations of regional racial attitudes with chronic illness in the United States

Abstract Rationale A growing body of literature has identified a robust relationship between the experience of racial discrimination and negative self-reported physical and mental health outcomes. Objective The current study seeks to identify which factors -at the community level- predict racial disparities in actual disease manifestation. This study focuses on the extent to which regional demographics and racial attitudes, both implicit and explicit, are associated with prevalence rates of several diseases for Black and White patients in the United States. Methods Implicit and explicit racial attitudes obtained from Project Implicit (Xu et al., 2017) were aggregated at the county level to predict variation in the prevalence rates of several chronic illnesses among Medicare recipients. Results When controlling for economic indicators, Black and White patients who live in areas with high implicit and explicit racial bias tend to exhibit a higher incidence of chronic health problems, including cancer, stroke, asthma, diabetes, and heart failure. These relationships tended to be stronger for Black patients. Additionally, patients in racially diverse and racially segregated regions also tended to exhibit a higher incidence of chronic health problems. Conclusion Findings from the study highlight the reliable relationship between both racial biases and regional demographics and the incidence rates of several chronic diseases, particularly in Black patients.
Laser Mass Spectrometry of Organic Compounds

The present communication presents preliminary results of laser mass spectrometry on four systems. First, we report on production of quasi-molecular cations and anions in amino acids. Second, we have studied methyl group transfer reactions for amino carboxylates indicating involvement of a thermal process. Third, we have studied the negative ion spectra of aromatic hydrocarbons and nitro compounds. Organic nitro-compounds cause substitution reactions via a chemical ionization solid-state source. Fourth, we have studied fragmentation patterns for amino acids contrasted with SIMS and low-energy electron impact.
Nitric Oxide and Cancer: An Overview

An involvement of nitric oxide, a diatomic radical, has been described for numerous areas from environmental pollution to cardiovascular disease, carcinogenesis, tumor progression, genotoxicity, and angiogenesis. Previously, it has been demonstrated that NO may perform different functions dependent on NO levels achieved in a particular microenvironment. Furthermore, researchers also have discovered and identified the various sources of NO, which can elicit different biological responses of NO. In order to better understand the biological consequences of NO responses, one must first understand the chemical biology of NO. Since the first discussions during the early 1990s, it became widely accepted that NO chemical biology can be classified into two classes: direct interaction and indirect interaction. These two classes provided us with the means to understand the basic chemical toxicological effects of NO and its resulting reactive nitrogen species (RNS). NO has been reported to be involved in several steps of carcinogenesis, including interactions with p53 at both the genetic and the protein level and through regulation of the apoptotic pathways and DNA repair mechanisms. Recently, NO has also been linked to various immune and inflammation responses, especially in cancer development and wound healing process. Tumors are known to alter the immune response and tissue vascularization which involves NO. Therefore, a better understanding of the roles of NO in immune response modulation and wound healing would allow us to design a better treatment plan and improve NO drug efficacy.
Finding the Proper Context for the MATRIX Trial

Despite the widespread use of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with an acute coronary syndrome, questions persist about the best method for preventing thrombotic complications while limiting the risk of bleeding during and after such procedures. The results of the multicenter MATRIX (Minimizing Adverse Hemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of Angiox) trial, as now described by Valgimigli et al.1 in the Journal, provide some new and important data. The large, ambitious MATRIX trial enrolled 7213 patients at 78 European centers and was designed to address three hotly debated issues.1 First, are there differences in . . .
Rebuilding Yonkers: How Open Government Laws Are Helping Level the Playing Field in the City of Hills

This article will explore some examples of how people in Yonkers have used FOIL and the Open Meetings Law as effective tools to level the playing field in the city of hills and, in doing so, help the city move in a more positive direction.
Legal Content in Social Work Education

Abstract One of the areas of growing importance to social work is the law. If the social work profession is to be in control of its future, it must become committed to the role of exerting influence on the legal system through education, advocacy and proactive legal policy development. This paper argues for increased attention by the social work profession to legal scholarship and the development of legal knowledge related to social work practice. A model is presented for social work educators to integrate legal content across the social work curriculum, focusing on both the knowledge of legal concepts and systems as well as the skills to practice in legal environments and to influence the decisions of the legal system as they affect social workers and clients.
TidyFS: a simple and small distributed file system

This paper describes TidyFS, a simple and small distributed file system that provides the abstractions necessary for data parallel computations on clusters. In recent years there has been an explosion of interest in computing using clusters of commodity, shared nothing computers. Frequently the primary I/O workload for such clusters is generated by a distributed execution engine such as MapReduce, Hadoop or Dryad, and is high-throughput, sequential, and read-mostly. Other large-scale distributed file systems have emerged to meet these workloads, notably the Google File System (GFS) and the Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS). TidyFS differs from these earlier systems mostly by being simpler. The system avoids complex replication protocols and read/write code paths by exploiting properties of the workload such as the absence of concurrent writes to a file by multiple clients, and the existence of end-to-end fault tolerance in the execution engine. We describe the design of TidyFS and report some of our experiences operating the system over the past year for a community of a few dozen users. We note some advantages that stem from the system's simplicity and also enumerate lessons learned from our design choices that point out areas for future development.
ENGINE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND ACQUISITION STRATEGY FOR U.S. ARMY GROUND VEHICLES

The US Army conducts Research, Development & Acquisition programs on a wide variety of tactical and combat vehicle types. Available resources for the research and development (R&D) of candidate engines, however, are far more limited. Consequently, there is need for a management strategy by which the US Army Tank-Automotive Command (TACOM) can more effectively direct the limited Department of Defense (DOD) R&D resources to those programs which will provide the greatest benefit to the overall effectiveness of the DOD. In response to this need, TACOM has evolved an engine R&D two-fold strategy. The first part of the strategy is the limitation of TACOM's R&D efforts to that range of engines wherein there are no cost-effective commercially available engine options. The second part of the strategy is the goal to develop an objective, quantifiable methodology which integrates the highest priority goals into an overall evaluation of the cost/combat (or operational) effectiveness of candidate engines.
A catalogue of deep mantle plumes: New results from finite‐frequency tomography

New finite-frequency tomographic images of S-wave velocity confirm the existence of deep mantle plumes below a large number of known hot spots. We compare S-anomaly images with an updated P-anomaly model. Deep mantle plumes are present beneath Ascension, Azores, Canary, Cape Verde, Cook Island, Crozet, Easter, Kerguelen, Hawaii, Samoa, and Tahiti. Afar, Atlantic Ridge, Bouvet(Shona), Cocos/Keeling, Louisville, and Reunion are shown to originate at least below the upper mantle if not much deeper. Plumes that reach only to midmantle are present beneath Bowie, Hainan, Eastern Australia, and Juan Fernandez; these plumes may have tails too thin to observe in the lowermost mantle, but the images are also consistent with an interpretation as “dying plumes” that have exhausted their source region. In the tomographic images, only the Eifel and Seychelles plumes are unambiguously confined to the upper mantle. Starting plumes are visible in the lowermost mantle beneath South of Java, East of Solomon, and in the Coral Sea. All imaged plumes are wide and fail to show plumeheads, suggesting a very weakly temperature-dependent viscosity for lower mantle minerals, and/or compositional variations. The S-wave velocity images show several minor differences with respect to the earlier P-wave results, including plume conduits that extend down to the core-mantle boundary beneath Cape Verde, Cook Island, and Kerguelen. A more substantial disagreement between P-wave and S-wave images reopens the question on the depth extent of the Iceland plume. We suggest that a pulsating behavior of the plume may explain the shape of the conduit beneath Iceland.
69 Finite element analysis in earthquake engineering

This chapter focuses on the finite element analysis in earthquake engineering. The finite element method is a powerful numerical analysis technique that has been widely applied in earthquake engineering for modeling the response of structures. The method derives its power from the variety of elements, such as beams, shells, and springs, that can be combined together to represent complex systems. Example applications include buildings, bridges, earth and concrete dams, off-shore towers, pipelines, and tanks. Often, interaction between the structure and its supporting foundation and soil or even a fluid must be considered, and these complete systems can also be modeled with finite elements. The finite element method is the most widely used procedure in earthquake engineering for analysis of a structure. It is a discretization technique, whereby the structure is divided into pieces, or elements, within which the solution is interpolated from nodal degrees of freedom. Solution of a matrix equation yields values for the degrees of freedom as functions of time. The earthquake response of structures such as dams, off-shore platforms, reservoir intake towers, and tanks is affected by dynamic pressures generated in the fluid (liquid) at the contact surface with the solid component (structure, foundation, and ground). A planar frame is an assemblage of horizontal beams and vertical columns, with or without inclined braces, where all members lie in a single plane. Such frames are commonly used in buildings to resist lateral loads from wind and earthquake.
Petrology of Luna 20 regolith from the lunar highlands

The Luna 20 regolith sample contains crystalline lithic fragments of mare basalt, the anorthosite-norite-troctolite group, and feldspathic basalt. Discrete mineral fragments and mineral fragments in regolith breccias can generally be assigned, based on chemical criteria, to one or the other of the first two rock types. A complex history is indicated for the regolith fragments involving repeated metamorphism and melting of the highlands due to impact events. The glass fragments and the feldspathic basalts probably are the result of this melting and their composition may be representative of a large portion of the regolith at this site.
Sensitivity of Teleconnection Patterns to the Sign of Their Primary Action Center

Abstract Teleconnection patterns have been extensively investigated, mostly with linear analysis tools. The lesser-known asymmetric characteristics between positive and negative phases of prominent teleconnections are explored here. Substantial disparity between opposite phases can be found. The Pacific–North American (PNA) pattern exhibits a large difference in structure and statistical significance in its downstream action center, showing either a large impact over the U.S. southern third region or over the western North Atlantic Ocean. The North Atlantic–based patterns display significant impacts over the North Atlantic for large positive anomalies and even larger impacts over the European sector for large negative anomalies. The monthly variance is distributed nearly evenly over the entire North Atlantic basin. A teleconnection pattern based on different regions of the basin has been known to assume different structure and time variations. The extent of statistical significance is investigated for thr...
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 1/Cyclin B1 Phosphorylates Varicella-Zoster Virus IE62 and Is Incorporated into Virions

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), an alphaherpesvirus restricted to humans, infects differentiated cells in vivo, including T lymphocytes, keratinocytes, and neurons, and spreads rapidly in confluent cultured dermal fibroblasts (HFFs). In VZV-infected HFFs, atypical expression of cyclins D3 and B1 occurs along with the induction of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) activity. A specific CDK1 inhibitor blocked VZV spread, indicating an important function for this cellular kinase in VZV replication. CDK activity assays of infected cells revealed a large viral phosphoprotein that was identified as being the major immediate-early transactivator, IE62. Since IE62 colocalized with CDK1/cyclin B1 by confocal microscopy, we investigated whether this cellular kinase complex interacts with IE62. Using recombinant fragments of IE62 spanning the entire amino acid sequence, we found that purified CDK1/cyclin B1 phosphorylated IE62 at residues T10, S245, and T680 in vitro. Immunoprecipitation of cyclin B1 from VZV-infected HFFs indicated that IE62 was included in the complex within infected cells. The full-length IE62 protein, obtained by immunoprecipitation from infected cells, was also phosphorylated by purified CDK1/cyclin B1. Based on IE62/CDK1/cyclin B1 colocalization near viral assembly regions, we hypothesized that these cellular proteins could be incorporated into VZV virions with IE62. Purified virions were analyzed by immunoblotting for the presence of CDK1 and cyclin B1, and active CDK1 and cyclin B1 were present in the VZV tegument with IE62 and were sensitive to detergent treatment. Thus, IE62 is a substrate for CDK1/cyclin B1, and virions could deliver the active cellular kinase to nondividing cells that normally do not express it.
Photoaffinity labeling of rat steroid 5α-reductase (isozyme-1) by a benzophenone derivative of a 4-methyl-4-azasteroid

[1,2-3H]N-4(Benzylbenzoyl)-3-oxo-4-aza-4-methyl-5 alpha-androstane-17 beta-carboxamide ([3H]-4MABP) has been synthesized as a photoaffinity probe of the steroid-binding domain of rat steroid 5 alpha-reductase isozyme-1 (5 alpha R-1). Reversible binding of the probe to 5 alpha R-1 in microsomal preparations yielded a reversible dissociation constant (Kd) of -3 nM, whereas inhibition experiments indicated that the probe had a 50% inhibition concentration of 4.4 nM and was a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme (Ki approximately 3 nM) with respect to testosterone. SDS-PAGE analysis of microsomal, detergent-solubilized, and (6.5%) polyethylene glycol-precipitated fractions of 5 alpha R-I photolyzed with [3H]4MABP in the presence of NADPH showed that the radioactivity was incorporated into a single protein band with a mass of 26 kDa (apparent molecular weight of 5 alpha R-1). UV photolysis was accompanied by an irreversible loss in enzyme activity, consistent with its covalent modification. Increasing the time of UV irradiation and concentration of [3H]4MABP indicated that the half-life and apparent Kd for its photo insertion were approximately 3 min and 7.5 nM, respectively. Photolysis in the presence of a 20-fold excess of N,N-diethyl-4-aza-4-methyl-3-oxo-5 alpha-androstane-17 beta-carboxamide or the 3-carboxysteroid SKF-105111 resulted in partial protection of 5 alpha R-1 from the probe, whereas minimal incorporation of radioactivity was observed in the absence of NADPH or in the presence of NADP+. The results indicate that [3H]4MABP is an effective probe of the steroid (D-ring) binding domain of 5 alpha R-1.
Protein expression during parasite redirection of host (Trichoplusia ni) biochemistry

Abstract Expression of proteins during normal egg and larval development of Trichoplusia ni was compared with that occurring in hosts stung as eggs by the parasitic wasp Chelonus sp. near curvimaculatus. Those stung hosts which produced a parasite (truly parasitized), precociously expressed proteins associated with larval-pupal metamorphosis, as did those stung hosts which did not contain a developing endoparasite (pseudoparasitized). No highly abundant, low-intermediate molecular weight hemolymph proteins were observed in truly or pseudoparasitized larvae which did not also occur at some point in the development of normal larvae. A low abundance, high molecular mass (160,000 Da) protein was observed in the hemolymph of truly parasitized larvae, but not of normal or pseudoparasitized larvae. The protein is glycosylated and very acidic (pI near 4.5). The data show that any parasitization proteins injected or induced by the ovipositing female parasite are in low abundance, in contrast to situations reported for parasitic wasps which sting hosts as larvae.
THE QUESTION OF ETHNIC IDENTITY

There exists an overriding need to rethink our cognitive and perceptual approaches to the problem of inter-group living and the development of an ethnic person identity in terms of human behavior and development. Two conceptual models are needed: Socialization is a matter of learning about man-made structure; and individuation is a matter of understanding processes of human nature. What the individual must learn and will repress in order to live in his society is not identical with what he can learn or wishes to forget. We may speak of the individual way of perceiving and living with ethnicity; It is a way of behaving according to a special sense of "coming face-to-face and to terms with one's own." Then there is the group way within and for the sake of ethnicity. It is a pattern of living and working, of "presenting and performiny among fellow man" with historical symbols, special legends, and cwiventional social pieties or actualities. The structural aspects of ethnicity ways can be understood in terms of readily identifiable processes of becoming a person and learning a distinctive ethnic style of learning. (Author/JM) COUNCIL on ANT113E%074°4DDIDGY and
TESTICULAR FAILURE IN ADOLESCENT WITH MESOAPPENDICULAR TESTIS

A fifteen-year-old male presented with delayed puberty and cryptorchidism. Previous exploratory surgery for bilateral cryptorchidism resulted in left orchiectomy. The right testis was very high and intimately adherent to the mesentery of the appendix, and was left in situ. Subsequently progressive testicular failure was demonstrated by falling plasma testosterone and rising plasma gonadotropin levels. On elective surgical exploration, an atrophic testis with an independent blood supply was found adherent to the mesentery of the appendix. No spermatic duct was present, and orchiectomy was performed. The reasons for orchiectomy and the role of serial hormonal evaluations in the management of this unusual mesoappendicular testis case are reviewed.
Vanicosides C-F, new phenylpropanoid glycosides from Polygonum pensylvanicum.

The isolation of the protein kinase C inhibitors, vanicoside A (1) and vanicoside B (2), from Polygonum pensylvanicum prompted continued interest in the active principles of this plant. A new, more efficient isolation procedure has been developed to facilitate separation of homologues of vanicosides A and B from the complex extract. Several new phenylpropanoid glycosides have since been isolated. The structures of these principles were determined to be 2'-O-acetylhydropiperoside (4), 6'-O-p-coumarylhydropiperoside (5), 4'-O-acetylvanicoside A (6), and 3'-O-acetylvanicoside B (7) using negative ion FABMS, 1 H NMR, and 2D NMR techniques.
Ring-opening of lactides and related cyclic monomers by triaryltin(IV) alkoxides and amides

Ar3SnX, where Ar = p-MeC6H4, p-CF3C6H4 or Ph and X = OBut or NMe2, are catalyst precursors for the ring-opening of lactides in benzene at 80 °C and the rate of ring-opening of lactides and a variety of related cyclic monomers is influenced by Ar and X such the chemistry of the ring-opening event and the initially formed product may be examined.
Diet‐associated hepatic failure and immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia in a Weimaraner

Objective: To describe the medical and nutritional management of a 4-year-old Weimaraner with acute hepatic failure and immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) associated with consuming a commercial dog food. Case summary: A 4-year-old male castrated Weimaraner developed signs of IMHA, hepatic failure, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, and malnutrition after consuming a commercial dog food. During the course of hospitalization, medical management included immunosuppressive therapy and supportive care. Nutritional support consisted of both enteral and parenteral nutrition. The dog was discharged after 19 days of hospitalization and fully recovered by 6 months. An investigation by the Food and Drug Administration was not able to determine the exact cause of the acute hepatic failure and IMHA. New information provided: This is the first case report documenting the medical and nutritional management of a critically ill animal associated with ingestion of this commercial dog food.
Mouse models for neurodegenerative diseases and a theory of proteomics

Proteome analysis is usually performed by separating complex cellular protein extracts by two-dimensional-electrophoresis followed by protein identification using mass spectrometry. In this way proteins are compared from normal and diseased tissue in order to detect disease related protein changes. In a strict sense, however, this procedure cannot be called proteome analysis: the tools of proteomics are used just to detect some interesting proteins which are then investigated by protein chemistry as usual. Real proteome research would be studying the cellular proteome as a whole, its composition, organization and its kind of action. At present however, we have no idea how a proteome works as a whole; we have not even a theory about that. If we would know how the proteome of a cell type is arranged, we probably would alter our strategy to detect and analyze disease-related proteins. I will present a theory of proteomics and show some results from our laboratory which support this theory. The results come from investigations of the mouse brain proteome and include mouse models for neurodegenerative diseases.
Accumulation of heat shock protein 72 (hsp 72) in postimplantation rat embryos after exposure to various periods of hyperthermia (40°–43°c) in vitro: Evidence that heat shock protein 72 is a biomarker of heat‐induced embryotoxicity

A monoclonal antibody to the 72 kDa heat shock protein and Western blot analysis were used to determine the induction, accumulation and turnover of hsp 72 after day 10 rat embryos were exposed to elevated temperatures (40 degrees-43 degrees C) for various lengths of time (2.5 minutes to 18 hours). Embryos exposed to temperatures that exceed the normal culture temperature (37 degrees C) by 4 degrees C or more for as little as 2.5 minutes (43 degrees C) or 15 minutes (41, 42 degrees C) synthesized and accumulated detectable amounts of heat-inducible hsp 72. Hsp 72 could not be detected by Western blot analysis of proteins from embryos cultured at 40 degrees C or below. Once induced, hsp 72 can be detected in embryos for 24-48 hours after they are removed from the hyperthermic conditions and returned to normothermic conditions. Our results also indicate that hsp 72 is induced by all hyperthermic exposures that induce alterations in rat embryo growth and development; therefore, hsp 72 is a potential biomarker for heat-induced embryotoxicity.
Low temperature (550–700 K) oxidation pathways of cyclic ketones: dominance of HO2-elimination channels yielding conjugated cyclic coproducts

The low-temperature oxidation of three cyclic ketones, cyclopentanone (CPO; C5H8=O), cyclohexanone (CHO; C6H10=O), and 2-methyl-cyclopentanone (2-Me-CPO; CH3-C5H7=O), is studied between 550 and 700 K and at 4 or 8 Torr total pressure. Initial fuel radicals R are formed via fast H-abstraction from the ketones by laser-photolytically generated chlorine atoms. Intermediates and products from the subsequent reactions of these radicals in the presence of excess O2 are probed with time and isomeric resolution using multiplexed photoionization mass spectrometry with tunable synchrotron ionizing radiation. For CPO and CHO the dominant product channel in the R + O2 reactions is chain-terminating HO2-elimination yielding the conjugated cyclic coproducts 2-cyclopentenone and 2-cyclohexenone, respectively. Results on oxidation of 2-Me-CPO also show a dominant contribution from HO2-elimination. The photoionization spectrum of the co-product suggests formation of 2-methyl-2-cyclopentenone and/or 2-cyclohexenone, resulting from a rapid Dowd-Beckwith rearrangement, preceding addition to O2, of the initial (2-oxocyclopentyl)methyl radical to 3-oxocyclohexyl. Cyclic ethers, markers for hydroperoxyalkyl radicals (QOOH), key intermediates in chain-propagating and chain-branching low-temperature combustion pathways, are only minor products. The interpretation of the experimental results is supported by stationary point calculations on the potential energy surfaces of the associated R + O2 reactions at the CBS-QB3 level. The calculations indicate that HO2-elimination channels are energetically favored and product formation via QOOH is disfavored. The prominence of chain-terminating pathways linked with HO2 formation in low-temperature oxidation of cyclic ketones suggests little low-temperature reactivity of these species as fuels in internal combustion engines.
Growth response and spectral characteristics of a short Spartina alterniflora salt marsh irrigated with freshwater and sewage effluent

Abstract A short Spartina alterniflora salt marsh was irrigated with sewage effluent and freshwater. Vegetation response to nitrogen additions in the sewage effluent and soil salinity dilution by the freshwater was monitored spectrally with a GSFC MARK II hand-held radiometer. The radiometer was spectrally configured to match bands 3, 4, and 5 of the Landsat-4 Thematic Mapper. Freshwater and sewage irrigations promoted live tissue production in the marsh until October. Control areas exhibited no net live biomass production after August. Radiance data expressed as the vegetation index and the infrared index were successfully correlated to increased live leaf biomass in the treated marsh. Significant correlations were found to exist between spectral radiance data and live leaf biomass, a live-dead leaf biomass ratio or percent live leaf biomass of the experimental areas. Successful spectral detection of biomass changes resulting from some perturbation suggests remote sensing as a viable tool for stress detection in S. alterniflora salt marshes.
In vivo reference point indentation reveals positive effects of raloxifene on mechanical properties following 6 months of treatment in skeletally mature beagle dogs.

Raloxifene treatment has been shown previously to positively affect bone mechanical properties following 1 year of treatment in skeletally mature dogs. Reference point indentation (RPI) can be used for in vivo assessment of mechanical properties and has been shown to produce values that are highly correlated with properties derived from traditional mechanical testing. The goal of this study was to use RPI to determine if raloxifene-induced alterations in mechanical properties occurred after 6 months of treatment. Twelve skeletally mature female beagle dogs were treated for 6 months with oral doses of saline vehicle (VEH, 1 ml/kg/day) or a clinically relevant dose of raloxifene (RAL, 0.5 mg/kg/day). At 6 months, all animals underwent in vivo RPI (10 N force, 10 cycles) of the anterior tibial midshaft. RPI data were analyzed using a custom MATLAB program, designed to provide cycle-by-cycle data from the RPI test and validated against the manufacturer-provided software. Indentation distance increase (IDI), a parameter that is inversely related to bone toughness, was significantly lower in RAL-treated animals compared to VEH (− 16.5%), suggesting increased bone toughness. Energy absorption within the first cycle was significantly lower with RAL compared to VEH (− 21%). These data build on previous work that has documented positive effects of raloxifene on material properties by showing that these changes exist after 6 months.
A Two-Component Mixed Friction Model for a Lubricated Line Contact

A two-component, two-dimensional friction model for a lubricated line contact, operating in boundary and mixed lubrication regimes, is developed. The friction is explicitly decomposed into the solid and the fluid shear components. The solid component is due to the asperity interactions and the fluid shear arises from the lubricant present at the interface. The friction model includes the sliding velocity, the instantaneous separation of the sliding bodies, normal to the sliding direction, the normal load and fluid properties. The model is based on unsteady friction experiments carried out under constant normal loads and time-varying sliding velocities. The model is applied to quasi-steady sliding, unsteady continuous and intermittent sliding, including sticking and momentary reversals of motion. In each case it becomes possible to track the instantaneous fluid shear and solid friction components.
Emulsion mixtures and the dispersion morphology diagram

Abstract Electrical-conductivity measurements were used to determine the morphologies of steady-state (i.e., agitated) emulsions, and visual studies (of video recordings of the creaming process) were used to determine the morphologies of the new emulsions that formed when the steady-state emulsions were allowed to cream. The creaming and steady-state morphologies were compared. Results were obtained for both high-conductivity A-in-B (A/B) and low-conductivity B-in-A (B/A) morphologies (where A and B are conjugate phases). At intermediate phase-volume fractions, steady-state emulsions of intermediate conductivity also were observed; from their creaming behavior these emulsions were deduced to be mixtures of the A/B and B/A morphologies. The previously postulated dispersion morphology diagram for A/B and B/A morphologies has been extended to include their mixtures.
High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of tolmetin, tolmetin glucuronide and its isomeric conjugates in plasma and urine.

Abstract A rapid and sensitive analytical procedure is described for the simultaneous measurement of tolmetin (T), tolmetin glucuronide (1β-TG) and the isomers of tolmetin glucuronide in plasma and urine. A reversed-phase liquid chromatographic system is used with an ion-pairing mobile phase of methanol-tetrabutylammonium hydrogensulfate buffered to pH 4.5 and kept at a constant temperature of 50°C. Detection is by UV at 313 nm. Plasma (0.5 ml) and urine (0.1 ml) are collected in pre-cooled containers and immediately adjusted to pH 3.0 to minimize TG isomerization and hydrolysis. Samples are then deproteinated with acetonitrile, the supernatant is evaporated to dryness and reconstituted in an acetate buffer (pH 4.5), and 50 μl are injected onto the system. Using zomepirac as the internal standard, the measurable, linear concentration ranges are 0.05–50 μg/ml for T in plasma and 0.025–50 μg/ml for T in urine. Chromatographic peaks representing T,1β-TG and three isomers of TG were identified, all with retention times less than 10 min. The need for special handling of biological samples is discussed.
Telephone-Administered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Veterans Served by Community-Based Outpatient Clinics.

Objective Multiple trials have found telephone-administered cognitive behavioral therapy (T-CBT) to be effective for the treatment of depression. The aim of this study was to evaluate T-CBT for the treatment of depression among veterans served by community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) outside of major urban areas. Method Eighty-five veterans meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) criteria for major depressive disorder were randomized to receive 16 sessions of T-CBT over 20 weeks or treatment as usual through the CBOC. Veterans were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, 20 weeks (posttreatment), and 6-month follow-up using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (Hamilton, 1960), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (Kroenke, Spitzer, & Williams, 2001), and a standardized psychiatric interview. Results There were no significant Time × Treatment effects (ps > .20). Patients were compliant, with 38 (92.7%) completing at least 12 sessions, and 32 (78.0%) having no missed sessions whatsoever. Ratings of audiotaped sessions showed the therapists to be highly competent. Conclusions This trial yielded negative results for an intervention that has been shown to be effective under other circumstances. We speculate that veterans served within the Veterans Affairs system are more refractory to treatment than other populations, and they may require a more rigorous intervention. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT00223652.
Structure of the EntB Multidomain Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetase and Functional Analysis of Its Interaction with the EntE Adenylation Domain

Nonribosomal peptide synthetases are modular proteins that operate in an assembly line fashion to bind, modify, and link amino acids. In the E. coli enterobactin NRPS system, the EntE adenylation domain catalyzes the transfer of a molecule of 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid to the pantetheine cofactor of EntB. We present here the crystal structure of the EntB protein that contains an N-terminal isochorismate lyase domain that functions in the synthesis of 2,3-dihydroxybenzoate and a C-terminal carrier protein domain. Functional analysis showed that the EntB-EntE interaction was surprisingly tolerant of a number of point mutations on the surface of EntB and EntE. Mutational studies on EntE support our previous hypothesis that members of the adenylate-forming family of enzymes adopt two distinct conformations to catalyze the two-step reactions.
Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Purge Flow on Aerodynamic Performance and Film Cooling Effectiveness on a Rotating Turbine With Non-Axisymmetric Endwall Contouring

The impact of the purge flow injection on aerodynamics and film cooling effectiveness of a high pressure turbine with non-axisymmetric endwall contouring has been numerically investigated. For this purpose, the geometry and boundary condition of a three-stage turbine at the Turbomachinery Performance and Flow Research Laboratory (TPFL), Texas A&M University is utilized. The turbine is being prepared to experimentally verify the results of the current numerical investigations. Its rotor includes non-axisymmetric endwall contouring on the first and second rotor row. In the preceding paper [1] it was shown that the endwall contouring of the second rotor contouring was able to substantially increase the turbine efficiency. To investigate the film cooling in conjunction with a purge flow injection, the first turbine rotor hub was contoured. Applying the same contouring method, however, different aerodynamic behavior of the first rotor was observed due to its immediate exposure to the purge flow injection. Consequently, the endwall design of the first rotor row required particular attention. The purge flow investigation involves the reference case without endwall contouring followed by the investigation with endwall contouring. The turbine used for this numerical investigation has two independent cooling loops. The first loop supplies coolant air to the stator-rotor gap, while the second loop provides cooling air to the downstream discrete film-cooling holes and blade tip cooling injection holes. For the current investigations the second loop is closed. Film cooling effectiveness is numerically simulated for rotor frequency of 2400 rpm. Efficiency, pressure, temperature and film cooling effectiveness distributions are determined for purge mass flow ratios of MFR = 0.5%, 1.0% and 2.0%. The small amount of the injected mass flow drastically changes the development of the secondary flow structure of the contoured first turbine row partially reversing the improvement tendency obtained from the endwall contouring.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Shear thinning correction for rolling/sliding elastohydrodynamic film thickness

AbstractA film thickness correction for shear-thinning in rolling elastohydrodynamic (EHD) contacts has been available for about 8 years that uses parameters obtained from flow curves. Newly acquired shear-thinning data from experiment and simulation allow for a more narrow and more realistic range of parameters for ordinary lubricant base oils. Line contact film thickness calculations were performed over a wide range of conditions to arrive at a new film thickness correction that includes the sliding effect. This correction may be applied to any classical Newtonian prediction of film thickness for single-component liquids having ordinary power-law response to high shear rate or stress.