cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ThermoNet: fine-grain building comfort-efficiency assessment

We analyze the thermal comfort and the energy efficiency of a relatively modern Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system in a large building based on building wide environmental data collected over 13 months. The paper moreover describes ThermoNet, our three-tier Wireless Sensor Network, which uses duty cycling and adaptive power control to achieve high data yield with low power consumption.
Leaf architecture, lignification, and tensile strength during vegetative phase change in Zea mays

Background and Aims: Leaf morphology, anatomy, degree of lignification, and tensile strength were studied during vegetative phase change in an inbred line of Zea mays (OH43 x W23) to determine factors that influence mechanical properties during development. Methods: Tensometer, light microscopy, histochemistry. Key results: Mature leaf length increased linearly with plant development, peaked at leaves 7 and 8 (corresponding to the onset of the adult phase) and then declined. Leaf width was stable for leaves 1 through 3, increased to leaf 7, remained stable to leaf 10, and then declined through leaf 13. Lamina thickness was highest for leaf 1 and decreased throughout development. Leaf failure load to width ratio and failure load to thickness ratio increased with development suggesting that changes in leaf morphology during development do not entirely account for increases in failure load. Histochemical analyses revealed that leaf tensile strength correlates with percent lignification and the onset of anatomical adult features at various developmental stages. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that in Zea mays lignification of the midrib parenchyma and epidermis may be directly correlated with increased tensile strength associated with phase change from juvenility to adulthood. Failure load and resultant tensile strength values are primarily determined by the percent tissue lignification and the appearance of leaf architectural characters that are associated with the transition from the juvenile to the adult phase. Increased mechanical stability that occurs during the phase transition from juvenility to adulthood may signify a fundamental change in strategy for an individual plant from rapid growth (survival) to reproduction.
The impact of drug treatments on during-treatment criteria: 1971-1972 DARP admissions.

The results of drug-abuse treatments can be evaluated both during treatment and post treatment. While posttreatment follow-up studies are of primary importance, the study of the immediate effects of treatments is useful in its own right. Evaluation of patient outcomes while the patient is still in treatment should generally show expected effects even though it may not be possible to determine whether such effects will persist after treatment is terminated. Such evaluation can also assist in answering questions concerning the relative efficacy of different approaches to treatment.
Bacillus subtilis RNAase III cleavage sites in phage SP82 early mRNA

Abstract We have determined the DNA sequence encoding three sites in Bacillus subtilis phage SP82 early mRNA that are cleaved by a B. subtilis processing endonuclease. The products generated by cleavage of the RNA were sequenced to determine the exact points of RNA strand scission. We propose that the RNA surrounding each processing site forms a stable stem-loop structure and that cleavage occurs at the 5 − side of specific adenosine residues located on the loop. The model is consistent with our previous observations that the active site of the enzyme recognizes double-stranded RNA. S1 mapping experiments with RNA-DNA hybrids established that the same cleavage sites are used both in vivo and in vitro. Examination of the B. subtilis processing sites on SP82 mRNA reveals distinctive features of primary and secondary structure that are not present in any of the E. coli RNAase III processing sites previously studied.
Intermodulation distortion in the cochlea as shown by offset action potential (AP) masking curves

In their recent article ‘‘Offset AP masker tuning curve and the FFT of the stimulus’’ [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 84, 1354–1362 (1988)], Henry and Lewis demonstrated that the tuning curve obtained by the simultaneous masking of the whole nerve action potential (AP) could have two tips when the AP is generated at the offset of the envelope of a high‐level probe. The primary tip falls below the probe frequency, whereas the secondary tip falls above the probe frequency. Curves obtained for the onset response with either forward or simultaneous masking did not show the secondary peak, nor did curves obtained for the offset response with forward masking. Henry and Lewis discussed various reasons for the secondary tip, but came to no conclusion as to the underlying mechanisms. Here, it is reasoned that the secondary tip of the offset curve can be simply explained by the generation within the cochlea of intermodulation distortion (IMD), which acts as a forward masker to the offset response. The IMD is dominated by the ...
Acid‐base control during hypothermia Acid‐base contrnl in children during hypothermia without temperature correction of pH and P CO2

In 28 children undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermia for open heart surgery, an attempt was made to maintain pH at 7.4 not corrected for temperature by varying the CO2 concentration supplied to the oxygenator so that the PaCO2 was 5.33 kPa, not corrected for temperature. One to two percent CO2 gave satisfactory results. Five percent CO2 had previously been given. No adverse clinical side effects were noted, and the acid-base status remained stable for 24 hours in 16 patients. There are strong theoretical reasons for maintaining a pH of 7.4, uncorrected for temperature, during hypothermia and a clinical impression was gained of better myocardial function and improved systemic and cerebral perfusion.
The significance of perineural invasion in early-stage cervical cancer

Abstract Introduction Cervical cancer spreads directly and through lymphatic and vascular channels. Perineural invasion is an alternative method of spread. Several risk factors portend poor prognosis and inform management decisions regarding adjuvant therapy. Objective To evaluate the incidence and significance of PNI in early cervical cancer. Methods Retrospective chart review of early-stage cervical cancer patients (IA–IIA) from 1994 to 2009. Results One hundred ninety two patients were included, 24 with perineural invasion in the cervical stroma (cases) and 168 without (controls). The mean age of the cases was 53years, versus 45.9 in the controls ( P =0.01). PNI was associated with more adjuvant therapy ( P =0.0001), a higher stage ( P =0.005), a larger tumor size (≥4cm) ( P P =0.002), parametrial invasion ( P P =0.015). On multivariate analysis using an adjusted hazard ratio, risk factors for recurrence included grade (HR, 95% CI; 3.61, 1.38–9.41) and histopathology (HR, 95% CI; 2.85, 100–8.09). Similarly, risk factors for death included grade (HR, 95% CI; 3.43, 1.24–9.49) and histopathology (HR, 95% CI; 3.71, 1.03–13.33). Perineural invasion was not identified as an independent risk factor for either recurrence or death. The mean follow up time was 56months. There was no significant difference in recurrence ( P =0.601) or over-all survival ( P =0.529) between cases and controls. Conclusion While perineural invasion was found to be associated with multiple high-risk factors, it was not found to be associated with a worse prognosis in early cervical cancer.
The Rising College Premium in the Eighties: Return to College or Return to Unobserved Ability?

The changes in the distribution of earnings during the 1980s have been studied extensively. The two most striking characteristics of the decade are (a) a large increase in the college/high school wage gap, and (b) a substantial rise in the variance of wage residuals. While this second phenomenon is typically implicitly attributed to an increase in the demand for unobserved skill, most work in this area fails to acknowledge that this same increase in demand for unobserved skill could drive the evolution of the measured college premium. In its simplest form, if higher ability individuals are more likely to attend college, then the increase in the college wage premium may be due to a increase in the relative demand for high ability workers rather than an increase in the demand for skills accumulated in college. This paper develops and estimates a dynamic programming selection model in order to investigate the plausibility of this explanation. The results are highly suggestive that an increase in the demand for unobserved ability could play a major role in the growing college premium. The changes in the distribution of earnings during the 1980s have been studied extensively. The two most striking characteristics of the decade are (a) a large increase in the college/ high school wage gap, and (b) a substantial rise in the variance of wage residuals. While this second phenomenon is typically implicitly attributed to an increase in the demand for unobserved skill,' most work in this area fails to acknowledge that this same increase in demand for unobserved skill could drive the evolution of the measured college premium. In its simplest form, if higher ability individuals are more likely to attend college, then the increase in the college wage premium may be due to an increase in the relative demand for high ability workers rather than an increase in the demand for skills accumulated in college. This paper develops and estimates a dynamic programming selection model in order to investigate the plausibility of this explanation. The results are highly suggestive that an increase in the demand for unobserved ability could play a major role in the growing college premium. There are at least two reasons to be interested in this topic. First, for policy makers intent on helping the American workforce adjust to the changing wage structure this distinction is crucial. If the value added of attending college truly rises, they may consider policies aimed at subsidizing the skills learned in college. However, if it results from an increase in the payoff to other types of skills, then policies focused on skill acquisition earlier in life would be more appropriate. Second, it will also aid in understanding the
Interplanetary magnetic field direction and the configuration of the day side magnetosphere

The direction of the interplanetary magnetic field appears to have a significant effect on the equilibrium size of the day side magnetosphere. The qualitative features of this effect are illustrated here by means of a simple vacuum model that ignores solar wind and ionospheric plasma densities as a first approximation. This idealized model produces earthward displacements of the subsolar magnetopause and equatorward displacements of the polar cusp associated with southward-turning interplanetary fields that are about a factor of 2 greater than observed displacements. The nonzero solar wind plasma pressure and ionospheric conductivity produce large deviations from the simple vacuum configurations but do not change the qualitative conclusions regarding magnetopause and cusp displacements associated with the north-south component of the interplanetary magnetic field.
Interaction of human breast fibroblasts with collagen I increases secretion of procathepsin B.

Interactions of stromal and tumor cells with the extracellular matrix may regulate expression of proteases including the lysosomal proteases cathepsins B and D. In the present study, we determined whether the expression of these two proteases in human breast fibroblasts was modulated by interactions with the extracellular matrix component, collagen I. Breast fibroblasts were isolated from non-malignant breast tissue as well as from tissue surrounding malignant human breast tumors. Growth of these fibroblasts on collagen I gels affected cell morphology, but not the intracellular localization of vesicles staining for cathepsin B or D. Cathepsins B and D levels (mRNA or intracellular protein) were not affected in fibroblasts growing on collagen I gels or plastic, nor was cathepsin D secreted from these cells. In contrast, protein expression and secretion of cathepsin B, primarily procathepsin B, was induced by growth on collagen I gels. The induced secretion appeared to be mediated by integrins binding to collagen I, as inhibitory antibodies against α1, α2, and β1 integrin subunits prevented procathepsin B secretion from fibroblasts grown on collagen. In addition, procathepsin B secretion was induced when cells were plated on β1 integrin antibodies. To our knowledge, this is the first examination of cathepsin B and D expression and localization in human breast fibroblasts and their regulation by a matrix protein. Secretion of the cysteine protease procathepsin B from breast fibroblasts may have physiological and pathological consequences, as proteases are required for normal development and for lactation of the mammary gland, yet can also initiate and accelerate the progression of breast cancer.
Flip-chip integration of selectively oxidized 850 nm VCSEL arrays

Summary form only given. We report the fabrication techniques for flip-chip integration of selectively oxidized 850 nm 8x8 individually addressable VCSEL arrays. For robust integration of 2-dimensional 850 nm VCSEL arrays to microelectronics, there are three challenges to overcome: 1) reliable bonding; 2) mechanically stable packaging; and 3) through substrate light emission.
Phyllotactic pattern is altered in the transition to flowering in the early ears of Zea mays landrace chapalote (Poaceae)

The origin of polystichy in the maize ear and central tassel spike continues to challenge our understanding of evolution in this important crop species. In this paper we tested the hypothesis that the change in phyllotaxy occurs in the region of husk leaf production before the transition to reproductive growth. Young ear or presumptive ear primordia were dissected to examine the transition from distichous husk leaves below the ear through spiral phyllotaxy to the polystichous arrangement of spikelet pair primordia in the young ear. Serial transverse sections were used to document the thickness of successive disks of insertion of lateral primordia and to reconstruct the path of procambial differentiation. The transition in phyllotaxy, though variable, typically occurs in the vegetative zone and is associated with periodic heterogeneity in the thickness of leaf bases and a delay in the development of waves of procambial differentiation into the base of the young ear.
The 3 pi /4 backward TW structure for the ELETTRA 1.5 GeV electron injector

The 3 pi /4 backward traveling wave structures used for the ELETTRA 1.5-GeV electron injector have been designed. The use of the 3 pi /4 accelerating mode is justified. After a description of the structure design, the choice of RF parameters leading to optimization with the RF pulse compressor and an evaluation of energy gain and peak field on copper based on simulations and cold test measurements are presented. RF cold test measurements of the first unit are analyzed. >
99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine camera-based measurement of renal clearance: should the result be normalized for body surface area?

Testing the rate of creatinine clearance by measuring the level of creatinine in the blood and in a 24-h urine collection is a common method of evaluating renal function. The result is routinely normalized for body surface area (BSA). Alternatively, renal clearance can be measured by 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) renal imaging without the need for urine collection. Frequently, the 99mTc-MAG3 camera-based result is also normalized for BSA. Methods: I evaluated the need for BSA normalization of renal clearance measurements in 99mTc-MAG3 imaging studies from both a conceptual and a mathematic point of view. Both approaches involved analyzing the effect of patient size, that is, BSA, on the factors blood volume, renal blood flow, and amount of test substance present in the blood in the creatinine clearance method compared with the 99mTc-MAG3 camera-based method. Results: Both the conceptual and the mathematic analyses were consistent with a significant difference between the creatinine and 99mTc-MAG3 approaches to measuring renal clearance. Larger patients have larger kidneys, greater renal blood flow, higher renal clearances, larger blood volumes, more muscle mass, and higher BSAs than smaller patients. However, the concentration of creatinine in the blood of patients of any size with normal renal function is similar because the amount of creatinine released into the blood varies with patient muscle mass, which varies with blood volume. Because normalization for BSA is needed for creatinine clearance, a single reference range can be used for all patients. In the case of measurement of renal clearance with 99mTc-MAG3 imaging (assuming a constant dose), the concentration of tracer in the blood will vary inversely with patient size because blood volume varies with patient size. Thus, as patient size increases, the blood concentration of tracer will go down and compensate for the increase in renal blood flow and renal clearance, and conversely. Consequently, the 99mTc-MAG3 renal imaging study is self-correcting for BSA and no additional correction is needed. Conclusion: A conceptual and mathematic analysis suggests that, although normalization for BSA is necessary in the measurement of renal clearance by the standard creatinine clearance test, such normalization is inappropriate in the 99mTc-MAG3 camera-based imaging study because the 99mTc-MAG3 method is inherently self-normalizing for BSA.
Realization of small footprint microring reflectors

We present design, fabrication and characterization of a single wavelength narrowband reflector made by integration of a DBR inside a ring resonator. The DBR covers half of the ring's circumference and is only reflective at one ring resonance.
Penile Priapism, Clitoral Priapism, and Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder: A Contemporary Review.

Abstract Introduction Priapism is a persistent erection that arises from a dysfunction of the normal regulatory mechanisms of penile tumescence, rigidity, and flaccidity. It is defined as an erection lasting longer than 6 hours that is not related to sexual stimulation. There are three types of priapism: ischemic, non-ischemic, and stuttering. Similarly, clitoral priapism may occur in females manifested by symptoms such as engorgement with pain and swelling of the clitoris and surrounding tissue. Persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD) is uncontrollable genital arousal in females, with or without orgasms, that occurs spontaneously and without any sexual feelings. Aim The aim of this article is to review the available literature on priapism, clitoral priapism, and PGAD. Methods A literature review was performed through PubMed regarding priapism, clitoral priapism, and PGAD. Main Outcome Measures The main outcome is an assessment of the potential etiologies, pathophysiology, diagnostic tools, and management options (medical and surgical) for these conditions. Results Initial workup of priapism should include a thorough history, physical examination, and cavernous arterial blood gas measurement. Findings should guide further management depending on the etiology of priapism (ischemic vs. non-ischemic). For ischemic priapism, a widely used therapeutic algorithm has been described. For patients with stuttering priapism, multiple oral therapies are currently available. Most reported cases of clitoral priapism appear to be drug-induced, and the primary treatment is stopping the offending agent. Medications like phenylpropanolamine and phenylephrine can also be utilized. PGAD may be associated with anatomical abnormalities, such as Tarlov cysts for which an epidural anesthesia block may be considered. Conclusions Early recognition and diagnosis of priapism is paramount to preserving erectile function. Current treatment regimens for ischemic priapism have room for innovation in both pharmacological and surgical therapies. Further investigation into the etiologies and treatment options for clitoral priapism and PGAD are required. Yafi FA, April D, Powers MK, Sangkum P, and Hellstrom WJG. Penile priapism, clitoral priapism, and persistent genital arousal disorder: A contemporary review. Sex Med Rev 2015;3:145–159.
Variable penalty method for finite element analysis of incompressible flow

A new scheme is applied for increasing the accuracy of the penalty finite element method for incompressible flow by systematically varying from element to element the sign and magnitude of the penalty parameter λ, which enters through ∇.v + p/λ = 0, an approximation to the incompressibility constraint. Not only is the error in this approximation reduced beyond that achievable with a constant λ, but also digital truncation error is lowered when it is aggravated by large variations in element size, a critical problem when the discretization must resolve thin boundary layers. The magnitude of the penalty parameter can be chosen smaller than when λ is constant, which also reduces digital truncation error; hence a shorter word-length computer is more likely to succeed. Error estimates of the method are reviewed. Boundary conditions which circumvent the hazards of aphysical pressure modes are catalogued for the finite element basis set chosen here. In order to compare performance, the variable penalty method is pitted against the conventional penalty method with constant λ in several Stokes flow case studies.
Thermal similitude studies

Thermal scale modeling for space vehicles - thermally similar model derived from mathematical model of prototype
Interleukin-1β and Interleukin-6 Stimulate Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Secretion in Cultured Myenteric Glia

Western blotting of culture media of myenteric glia stained positive for GFAP revealed increased secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in interleukin-1β (IL-1β) stimulated cells (10 ng/mL) versus control (142 ± 19 versus 42 ± 19, P
Noradrenergic dysfunction and the psychopharmacology of posttraumatic stress disorder

The catecholamine norepinephrine is a critical effector of the mammalian stress response and has been implicated in the pathophysiology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—a syndrome intrinsically related to the experience of extraordinary stress. Symptom-linked hypernoradrenergic derangements have been observed in PTSD and several studies have examined the potential therapeutic effects of agents that dampen the centrally hyperactive noradrenergic state. These agents include compounds that decrease norepinephrine release (e.g. centrally acting α2 agonists such as clonidine) and those which block post-synaptic norepinephrine receptors (e.g. centrally acting α1 or β receptor antagonists such as prazosin or propranolol). In this article, we review studies of central noreadrenergic hyperactivity under both basal and challenge conditions and explore the evidence for these derangements as potential psychopharmacologic targets in patients with PTSD. Given the significant involvement of CNS norepinephrine hyperactivity in PTSD, and its link to intrusive and hyperarousal symptoms, it is not surprising that interventions directed at this system have therapeutic potential in PTSD. The utility of these anti-adrenergics in the clinical treatment of PTSD remains to be determined, though it is possible that they may prove to have primary roles in a disorder that is only modestly responsive to antidepressant treatment. Depression and Anxiety 0:1–12, 2007. Published 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Accommodative vergence is driven by the phasic component of the accommodative controller

Conflicting opinions exist as to whether the phasic (reflex) component alone or both the phasic and tonic (adaptive) components of the accommodation and vergence systems drive accommodative vergence and vergence accommodation crosslinks. In this study the dissociated phoria to a 2 D target was measured before and after accommodative adaptation to discriminate the two possibilities. Results showed a significant difference in the dark-focus of accommodation pre- and post- near-vision task, indicating that accommodative adaptation had occurred. No significant change occurred in dark-vergence or in the accommodative response to the 2 D target. However, a significant decrease was found in the dissociated phoria presumably because of decreased phasic accommodation and its stimulation of accommodative vergence after the adaptation. This result is consistent with a model in which the accommodative vergence crosslink is driven by phasic accommodation only.
Perampanel efficacy and tolerability with enzyme-inducing AEDs in patients with epilepsy

Objective: Evaluate the impact of concomitant enzyme (CYP3A4)-inducer antiepileptic drugs (EIAEDs) on the efficacy and safety of perampanel in patients from the 3 phase-III clinical trials. Methods: Patients with pharmacoresistant partial-onset seizures in the 3 phase-III clinical studies were aged 12 years and older and receiving 1 to 3 concomitant antiepileptic drugs. Following 6-week baseline, patients were randomized to once-daily, double-blind treatment with placebo or perampanel 8 or 12 mg (studies 304 and 305) or placebo or perampanel 2, 4, or 8 mg (study 306). Results: Treatment response assessed by median percent reduction in seizure frequency and responder rates improved with perampanel compared with placebo. However, at 8 and 12 mg, the treatment response was significantly greater in patients receiving non-EIAEDs. The treatment effect (perampanel–placebo) also demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in all patients. The overall incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events was similar regardless of the presence of EIAEDs. Occurrence of some adverse events, such as fatigue, somnolence, dizziness, irritability, was greater in patients receiving non-EIAEDs, as was discontinuation because of adverse events. Conclusions: Perampanel shows efficacy and safety in the presence and absence of EIAEDs. As systemic exposure to perampanel increases, so does efficacy. Given the extensive metabolism of perampanel, systemic exposure is clearly reduced with concomitant administration of CYP3A4 inducers. This supports the strategy of dosing perampanel to clinical effect. Recognition of these pharmacokinetic interactions will be important in the optimization of this novel medication. Classification of evidence: This study provides Class II evidence that 2 to 12 mg/d doses of perampanel reduced seizure frequency and improved responder rate in the presence and absence of EIAEDs.
The development of an information assurance program

As the world continues to move further into the Information Age, the need to protect information and information systems becomes more critical. UALR is meeting this challenge by providing an Information Assurance Minor program and pursuing designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAEIAE). These initiatives are designed to increase the number and skills of information assurance professionals in Arkansas. This paper briefly describes information assurance, the motivation and requirements for the CAEIAE program, and the steps taken at UALR to address the need for skilled information assurance professionals.
Performance of Comorbidity, Risk Adjustment, and Functional Status Measures in Expenditure Prediction for Patients with Diabetes

OBJECTIVE—To compare the ability of generic comorbidity and risk adjustment measures, a diabetes-specific measure, and a self-reported functional status measure to explain variation in health care expenditures for individuals with diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—This study included a retrospective cohort of 3,092 diabetic veterans participating in a multisite trial. Two comorbidity measures, four risk adjusters, a functional status measure, a diabetes complication count, and baseline expenditures were constructed from administrative and survey data. Outpatient, inpatient, and total expenditure models were estimated using ordinary least squares regression. Adjusted R2 statistics and predictive ratios were compared across measures to assess overall explanatory power and explanatory power of low- and high-cost subgroups. RESULTS—Administrative data–based risk adjusters performed better than the comorbidity, functional status, and diabetes-specific measures in all expenditure models. The diagnostic cost groups (DCGs) measure had the greatest predictive power overall and for the low- and high-cost subgroups, while the diabetes-specific measure had the lowest predictive power. A model with DCGs and the diabetes-specific measure modestly improved predictive power. CONCLUSIONS—Existing generic measures can be useful for diabetes-specific research and policy applications, but more predictive diabetes-specific measures are needed.
Leaf traits and water relations of 12 evergreen species in Costa Rican wet and dry forests: patterns of intra-specific variation across forests and seasons

This study examined variation in leaf traits and water relations in 12 evergreen and semideciduous woody species that occur in both seasonal wet and dry forests in Costa Rica and compared intra-specific leaf–trait correlations to those found in inter-specific global studies. The following traits were measured in both forests across seasons for 2 years: leaf nitrogen (N), leaf carbon (C), specific leaf area (SLA), toughness, cuticle thickness, leaf thickness, and leaf lifespan (LLS). Leaf water potential (LWP) and water content (LWC) were measured as indices of plant available water. Canopy openness, soil moisture, and herbivory were also measured to compare environmental variation across sites. Although species contributed the greatest amount to variation in traits, season, forest, and their interaction had a large influence on patterns of intra-specific leaf–trait variation. Leaf traits that contributed most to variation across sites were C, LWP, leaf thickness, and SLA. Traits that contributed most to variation across seasons were leaf toughness, LWP, and LWC. Furthermore, leaf traits were more correlated (i.e., number and strength of correlations) in the dry than in the wet forest. In contrast to results from global literature syntheses, there was no correlation between LLS and N, or LLS and SLA. Both light and water availability vary seasonally and may be causing variation in a number of leaf traits, specifically those that relate to water relations and leaf economics. Strong seasonality may cause leaf–trait relationships at the local scale to differ from those documented in continental and global-scale studies.
Ethynyl p‐Tolyl Sulfone

Ethynyl p-tolyl sulfone solvent: petroleum ether intermediate: p-tolyl 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethynyl sulfone product: Ethynyl p-tolyl sulfone. Keywords: sulfonation, C-sulfonation
SALINITY AND POPULATION PARAMETERS OF BALD EAGLES (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS) IN THE LOWER CHESAPEAKE BAY

Abstract We evaluated the relationship between salinity and Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) population parameters using 26 years of survey data for the lower Chesapeake Bay. Tidal tributaries within the study area were stratified according to the Chesapeake Bay Program's segmentation scheme, and segments with the same salinity classification were considered spatial replicates. Salinity categories included tidal fresh, oligohaline, mesohaline, and polyhaline. Four parameters— colonization rate, nesting density, projected carrying capacity, and productivity— were derived from nesting data within each shoreline segment and compared across the salinity gradient. The study-wide Bald Eagle population is exhibiting exponential growth, with an average doubling time of 7.9 years. All population parameters showed significant directional variation with salinity. Average population doubling time for tidal fresh reaches was 16 years for polyhaline areas. Current Bald Eagle nesting densit...
Synthesis of Nanocrystalline BaTiO3 by Electron Beam Evaporation

Nanocrystalline BaTiO3 has been synthesized for the first time by a gas-condensation process using an electron beam evaporation system. BaTiO3 and Ti sources are vaporized simultaneously in either a mixed helium-oxygen or pure helium environment. Nano-BaTiO3 particles have an average particle size of approximately 18 nm. The processing parameters of the evaporation process are reported.
Detection and Follow-up of Neonatal Brain Injuries with FD-NIRS

We use Frequency-Domain Near-Infrared Spectroscopy to detect brain injuries in neonates by noninvasively measuring cerebral oxygenation and blood volume. Correlation of our data with subsequent diagnoses suggests the effectiveness of FD-NIRS as a bedside monitor.
Diurnal variation of diazinon volatilization: soil moisture effects.

Diurnal variations in diazinon volatilization were monitored in three field experiments conducted with differing soil moisture contents. The highest flux rates in all experiments were recorded just after diazinon application, but the magnitudes of those initial rates differed according to the soil moisture content, with wetter soil producing a higher rate: 5.6 × 10−4 μg cm−2 min−1 for initial soil moisture above field capacity, 8.3 × 10−5 μg cm−2 min−1 for initial soil moisture at field capacity, and 2.5 × 10−5 μg cm−2 min−1 for initially very dry soil. Volatilization decreased during the first day in the two experiments with initially wet soils but remained relatively constant in the experiment with initially dry soil. The volatilization rate during the first night for the wettest soil remained about an order-of-magnitude higher than that observed for driest soil. When the surface dried in the experiment conducted at the intermediate water content, the volatilization rate and temporal pattern transitione...
Autologous bone marrow transplantation in multiple myeloma: identification of prognostic factors

Multiple myeloma remains a universally fatal malignancy with a median survival time not exceeding 3 years. A clinical trial was undertaken to determine feasibility and efficacy of marrow-ablative chemoradiotherapy supported by unpurged autologous bone marrow (ABMT) and to define prognostic variables. Total body irradiation and either melphalan or thiotepa were administered to 55 patients (median age 53 years; range 20 to 66 years). The group of 21 patients with resistance to standard melphalan-prednisone and to continuous infusions of vincristine and Adriamycin with high dose dexamethasone (VAD) included 7 with primary unresponsive disease and 14 with resistant relapse; among the 34 patients achieving remission with the VAD regimen, 14 were in first and 20 in a subsequent remission. Marked cytoreduction by greater than or equal to 75% was observed among all 21 patients with refractory myeloma, whereas further cytoreduction of this magnitude was noted in only 56% of the 34 patients already in remission after VAD. Five of the 6 early deaths among all 55 patients occurred in the 14 patients with resistant relapse, none of whom achieved complete remission and who, as a group, had median durations of relapse-free and overall survival of only 8 and 7 months, respectively. Among the 41 remaining patients, there was only one early death, and 27% achieved complete remission including a 36% incidence among the 14 patients treated in first remission; their projected 4-year survival rate was 82% regardless of their disease status (first or later remission or primary resistance). When information about sensitivity to prior therapy is unavailable, the presence before ABMT of both high beta-2-microglobulin levels (greater than 3 mg/L) and non-IgG isotype helped identify 9 among the 55 patients with a very poor prognosis: all 8 responders relapsed within 9 months, and 8 patients died within 15 months. By contrast, a 4-year projected survival rate of over 70% for the other patients (about 80% of this series) justifies further investigation of this novel treatment approach in comparison with standard dose regimens. Our results indicate that marrow-ablative therapy cannot be recommended for myeloma patients with resistant relapse or those with a combination of risk factors (advanced tumor burden, absence of IgG isotype). The apparent lack of an adverse effect of even marked plasmacytosis in autografts (up to 30%) emphasizes the need for better cytoreduction rather than bone marrow purging.
Effects of supplementing hypothermic crystalloid cardioplegic solution with catalase, superoxide dismutase, allopurinol, or deferoxamine on functional recovery of globally ischemic and reperfused isolated hearts

We evaluated whether supplemental pharmacologic interventions that altered formation or degradation of reactive oxygen metabolites, when added to hypothermic crystalloid cardioplegic solution (procaine-free St Thomas’ Hospital solution), alter postischemic function of isolated rabbit hearts. Hypoxic, substrate-free cardioplegic solutions cooled to 27° C were perfused through isolated rabbit hearts for 5 minutes before and after an uninterrupted 2 hour period of global ischemia at 27° C. Hearts were then reperfused with standard buffer for 1 hour at 37° C. In some experiments, the cardioplegic solution was supplemented with the following: superoxide dismutase (30 μg/ml; degrades superoxide anion); catalase (1.7 μg/ml; degrades hydrogen peroxide); allopurinol (1 mmol/L; inhibits xanthine oxidase); or deferoxamine (Desferal, 0.5 mmol/L; selectively chelates ferric iron). Postreperfusion contractile parameters of supplemented hearts, including left ventricular pressure development and its first derivative, left ventricular compliance, spontaneous heart rate, and coronary vascular resistance, were statistically compared to data obtained from hearts arrested with unsupplemented cardioplegic solution. Catalase supplementation provided statistically significant improvement of most functional parameters; somewhat less protection was obtained with allopurinol. Deferoxamine provided little added protection except for the ability to prevent ischemia-induced increases of coronary vascular resistance. There was no evidence of added protection by superoxide dismutase. The data suggest that an important component of ischemia-induced cardiac cell damage in an asanguineous setting is hydrogen peroxide-dependent, and interventions that either inhibit production of superoxide anion or degrade hydrogen peroxide offer best protection. They may be clinically efficacious additives to crystalloid cardioplegic solutions.
Non-invasive assessment of muscle oxygenation may aid in optimising transfusion threshold decisions in ambulatory paediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE To assess the potential utility of a novel non-invasive muscle oxygen measurement to determine the presence of muscle hypoxia in patients with anaemia. BACKGROUND Recent assessment of the risk/benefit ratio of blood transfusion has led to clinical strategies optimising transfusion decisions. These decisions are primarily based on haematocrit (Hct) but not oxygen delivery, the primary function of red blood cells (RBCs). We hypothesised that muscle oxygenation (MOx) would correlate with Hct in patients with anaemia and may be a physiologically relevant determinant of the transfusion threshold. METHODS/MATERIALS MOx was non-invasively determined in children in the Cancer and Blood Disorders Center ambulatory clinic at Seattle Children's Hospital using a custom-designed optical probe and spectrometer. MOx was compared with contemporaneous Hct. In subjects receiving RBCs, MOx and Hct were also determined following transfusion. RESULTS MOx ranged from 36·7 to 100%, and Hct ranged from 17·0 to 38·6% in 27 measurements from 16 patients. High MOx values were associated with high Hct. Mean MOx for patients with normal Hct for age (n = 5) was 95·9 ± 2·9%. RBC transfusion increased mean Hct from 19·1 ± 1·5% to 29·3 ± 2·0 and mean MOx from 67·9 ± 21·1% to 89·9 ± 9·8%. Among six transfusion episodes (in five patients) with initial Hct < 22, only three had a pre-transfusion MOx of <70%. Patients with the lowest pre-transfusion MOx had the largest increase in MOx after transfusion. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary data suggest that MOx may aid in making transfusion decisions when used in combination with Hct.
Statistical Thermodynamic Modeling of Early Aβ Oligomer Formation

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease. A mounting body of research implicates amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers as an etiological factor in AD. However, the exact structure and stability of these species remains unclear. We have implemented an approach that uses Aβ conformations obtained from replica exchange molecular dynamics (REMD) simulations in conjunction with a statistical thermodynamic model to derive thermodynamic information on Aβ oligomer formation. Fully atomistic REMD simulations of Aβ were performed using Gromacs, the Charmm 36 force field and the TIP3P water model.
Rac1 GTPase Targeting Inhibits p53-Deficiency Mediated Lymphomagenesis.

Mutation of the p53 tumor suppressor is linked to therapeutic resistance in several tumor types. p53 mutation is generally associated with disease progression and poor prognosis in patients with lymphoid malignancies and can occur in approximately 50% of Burkitt’s lymphomas [1, 2]. Thus, new therapies are needed to specifically target p53-deficient lymphomas with increased efficacy. Rac1 small GTPase signaling is linked to tumorigenesis and Rac1 activity is increased by p53 loss of function. Previous studies in primary cell culture have shown that suppression of Rac1 activity can preferentially inhibit p53-deficiency induced hyperproliferation and cause increase apoptosis [3], indicating that targeting Rac1 may have therapeutic potential for p53-deficient malignancies. In the current study, the specific impact of inhibition of Rac1 on p53-deficient B and T lymphoma cell proliferation, apoptosis, tumor formation, and spontaneous lymphoma development in in vivo mouse lymphoma models was interrogated. p53-deficiency resulted in increased Rac1 activity in both human B and murine T lymphoma lines. Suppression of Rac activity using a dominant negative mutant or the small molecule inhibitor NSC23766 was able to abrogate p53-deficient lymphoma cell proliferation through a G1 checkpoint as determined by cell cycle analysis. Immunoblot analysis revealed that the anti-proliferative effect of Rac1 targeting in lymphoma cells may involve PAK, LIMK, and Akt signaling pathways rather than the MAP kinase pathway. Further, Rac1 targeting by shRNA resulted in an increase in expression of cleaved caspase 3 and cytochrome c by immunoblot concurrent with an elevation in the annexinV/7-AAD positive apoptotic cell population. These data indicate that loss of Rac1 activity can increase apoptosis via a p53-independent mechanism in p53 mutated lymphoma lines. These effects of inhibition of active Rac1 were extended in vivo where Rac1 targeting was able to impair p53-deficient lymphoma cell growth in xenograft models and postpone lymphomagenesis onset in murine transplant models. Taken together, our studies demonstrate that Rac1 activity is inversely regulated by functional p53 and that Rac1 contributes to p53-deficiency induced hyperproliferation by modulating both cell cycle and apoptosis in B and T lymphomas. Because the Rac signaling axis constitutes a critical determinant of cell survival and tumorigenesis associated with p53 defects, it may represent an important target for therapy in the treatment of p53-deficient lymphomas.
CELL POPULATION KINETICS OF AN OSTEOGENIC TISSUE · I

Cell proliferation on the actively growing periosteal surface of the femur of rabbits aged 2 weeks has been investigated using autoradiographic techniques. Injections of tritiated glycine and tritiated thymidine were given simultaneously and the animals sacrificed at intervals from 1 hour to 5 days after injection. The glycine labeled the position of the bone surface at the time of injection and the thymidine labeled the cells which were synthesising DNA. The rate of increase in the cell population was determined by counting the number of cells beyond the glycine label at different times after injection. The cell kinetics of the fibroblast-pre-osteoblast-osteoblast-osteocyte system has been studied. The fibroblasts are relatively unimportant from the point of view of increase in the cell population. The main site of cell proliferation is the layer of pre-osteoblasts on the periosteal surface. The rate of movement of cells from the pre-osteoblast to the osteoblast and osteocyte compartments has been measured. The incorporation of osteoblasts into the bone is not a random process, but it appears that the osteoblast must spend a certain time on the periosteal surface before becoming either an osteocyte or a relatively inactive osteoblast lining an haversian canal. It was estimated that, on an average, an osteoblast produces 2 or 3 times its own volume of matrix during its most active period on the periosteal surface.
Controlled Experiments on Resonant Cross-Flow Mode Interactions

An experiment is outlined which utilizes the flow over the surface of a rotating disk to study primary and secondary instabilities of cross-flow modes. This considers both stationary and traveling cross-flow modes, and conditions that might lead to a resonant energy exchange between them, as well on modes of breakdown which ultimately lead to turbulence. For this, the emphasis will be on the effect of different initial disturbance conditions which are introduced by an array of surface mounted v-component producing elements. These are produced by a specially designed pattern of metalized electrodes which are vapor deposited onto a piezoelectrically active film bonded to the surface of the disk. The motion of these elements are individually controllable in frequency, amplitude and phase, to seed combinations of stationary and traveling (with respect to the disk rotation frame) disturbance inputs. This paper outlines the fabrication of this setup and initial results in the passively (naturally) excited boundary layer. The results document amplified stationary cross-flow modes which originate upstream of the critical Reynolds number predicted from linear theory for a parallel flow. For these, amplification rates and eigenfunction moduli are presented.
Screening, early detection, education, and trends for melanoma: Current status (2007-2013) and future directions: Part II. Screening, education, and future directions

New evidence has accumulated over the past several years that supports improved melanoma outcomes associated with both clinician and patient screening. Population-based and workplace studies conducted in Australia and the Unites States, respectively, have shown decreases in the incidence of thick melanoma and overall melanoma mortality, and a year-long statewide screening program in Germany has shown a nearly 50% reduction in mortality 5 years after the screening ended. Current melanoma screening guidelines in the United States are inconsistent among various organizations, and therefore rates of both physician and patient skin examinations are low. As policymaking organizations update national screening recommendations in the United States, the latest research reviewed in part II of this continuing medical education article should be considered to establish the most effective recommendations. Patient and provider education will be necessary to ensure that appropriate patients receive recommended screening.