cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influences of ultrasonic machine settings, transducer frequency and placement of region of interest on the measurement of integrated backscatter and cyclic variation

Integrated backscatter and its cyclic variation are potentially important parameters to discriminate normal from diseased myocardium. Cyclic variation of integrated backscatter is expected to be independent of machine settings. Backscatter images of swine hearts were taken using a two-dimensional backscatter system while acoustic power was varied at different time gain control (TGC) settings. Cyclic variation was measured in vivo with various acoustic power and TGC settings using different transducer frequencies. Three different regions were analyzed. For any given TGC setting, the relationship between acoustic power and integrated backscatter in vitro was linear only over a narrow range. In vivo, cyclic variation was present at all regions studied in both long- and short-axis views. However, lower acoustic power ( 35 dB) and TGC (> 50 dB), produced minimal cyclic variation. Appropriate acoustic power (20-35 dB) and TGC (30-50 dB) produced larger and more consistent cyclic, variation at the posterior region of the left ventricle. These data indicate that each region has specific, appropriate machine settings to maximize the magnitude of cyclic variation.
Crystal structures of two polymeric bis(triphenyltin) malonates

In an attempt to prepare potassium/sodium salts of malonato-triphenylstannate, two bis(triphenyltin) malonates were obtained instead, [(C6H5)3Sn]3[O2CCH2CO2]1.5 (1) and {[(C6H5)3SnO2CCH2CO2Sn(C6H5)3]H2O}CH3CH2OH (2). This provides an excellent example of structural diversity in triorganotin carboxylates. In both complexes, the dicarboxylate was connected to the triphenyltin groups forming a linear infinite polymeric chain. Both complexes have a trans-trigonal bipyramidal geometry with the three phenyl groups occupying the equatorial plane and two oxygens at axial positions. Both short and long tin–oxygen distances were observed in 1 and 2. In 1, all carboxylates functioned as bridging bidentate ligands, resulting in an infinite 3-D polymer network propagating along all three axes. In 2, Sn1 is bonded to a carboxylate and a water molecule (Sn1–O1 2.145(3) A, Sn1–O3 2.341(3) A, O1–Sn1–O3 173.97(12)°). Only one carboxylate acts as a bidentate ligand allowing the carbonyl group to be axially coordinated to th...
Waves of Empire US Hegemony and Imperialistic Activity from the Shores of Tripoli to Iraq, 1787–2003

Is there a relationship between the global hegemonic position of the US on the one hand, and imperialistic activities such as war-making, sending troops abroad, colonial annexation and/or temporary military occupation? In an attempt to offer a preliminary answer to this question, this article offers a novel longitudinal analysis of US imperialistic activities from 1787 to 2003, and shows that America's imperialistic activity has been punctuated by waves of high amplitude and frequency. The article also shows that each of these waves correspond to different phases in America's career. Specifically, they are associated with America's movement from regional to hemispheric to global dominance and, ultimately, to its decline from its prior hegemonic status. The analysis offers preliminary support for a new theory of the relationship between hegemony and imperialistic activity.
Isomerization of Carotenoids in the Presence of MCM-41 Molecular Sieves: EPR and HPLC Studies

Isomerization of all-trans β-carotene and canthaxanthin embedded in solid MCM-41 and Ti−MCM-41 occurs during photoirradiation. The isomerization proceeds with high efficiency, primarily via the carotenoid radical cation (Car•+). The intermediacy of Car•+ was confirmed by studies of the isomerization caused by oxidation of these two compounds in Fe−MCM-41. Strong selective formation of the 13-cis isomer occurs for all-trans β-carotene, but no such selectivity was found for canthaxanthin. These phenomena are attributed to different orientations of the two compounds in these hosts. Molecular mechanics calculations show that formation of the 13-cis isomer of β-carotene is more favorable than that of other cis isomers in the MCM-41 host.
Pinus strobiformis (southwestern white pine) stand dynamics, regeneration, and disturbance ecology: A review

Abstract Pinus strobiformis (southwestern white pine) is one of the least studied and understood five-needle white pine species in North America. Recently, this species has become increasingly challenged by Cronartium ribicola (white pine blister rust). This review examines literature relevant to P. strobiformis taxonomy, environmental associations, community associations, stand dynamics, and fire and disturbance ecology in order to better inform the management of this understudied species. In its US range, P. strobiformis occurs in central and southern Arizona and New Mexico and western Texas and has been documented as far north as southwestern Colorado. In Mexico, it occurs in northeastern Sonora, western Chihuahua and Durango, northern Zacatecas, southern Coahuila and central Nuevo Leon. Although P. strobiformis is a relatively high-elevation species preferring mesic habitats, it occurs across a variety of aspects, slope positions, and elevations. It rarely dominates forest composition but is most often found in complex species mixtures. While located in mixed-conifer habitats at the northern end of its range, it is associated with more diverse forest communities in the southern part of its range. Studies generally indicate P. strobiformis is a mid-seral species, although its low abundance and broad environmental amplitude complicate classification. Regeneration ecology is poorly understood, but bird and rodent seed dispersal do occur in portions of its range. Historical fire regimes in P. strobiformis mixed-conifer forests in the US were primarily characterized by frequent, low-severity surface fire, with less evidence of mixed- and high-severity fire. In Mexico, low-severity surface fire appears to have been ubiquitous within P. strobiformis habitats, with historical fire regimes still largely intact. Information is limited on the effects of disturbances other than fire. Increased temperatures and drought severity associated with climate change could potentially shrink the distribution of P. strobiformis , while altering its dominance in future forest communities. Future research on the ecology and management of P. strobiformis is necessary to effectively manage this species given climate change and white pine blister rust selection pressure.
Cationic chemistry and chemically amplified resist materials for microlithography: synthesis and applications of copolymers of 4-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)styrene and styrene or 4-hydroxystyrene

Abstract Two new copolymers based on 4-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)styrene and styrene or 4-hydroxystyrene have been designed and prepared for use as ultrahigh resolution resist materials in microlithography. The tertiary benzylic alcohol moieties contained in these copolymers undergo acid-catalysed dehydration in a process that proceeds via a stabilized carbenium intermediate, leading to the eventual crosslinking of the copolymers. Resist formulations incorporating these copolymers are readily obtained through the use of a photoacid generator such as triphenylsulfonium hexafluoroantimonate. Irradiation of a film of the resist with deep-u.v. light or an electron beam results in the liberation of protons within the exposed areas of the polymer film. Subsequent heating of the exposed film provides the activation energy that is necessary for the dehydration and crosslinking steps to proceed. The design of the new copolymers is such that no swelling of the crosslinked polymers is seen upon solvent development of the resist images as the polarity of the crosslinked areas is changed drastically as a result of the dehydration step. The resists show extremely high sensitivities to both deep-u.v. and electron-beam radiation and are useful as imaging materials.
Theory of itinerant electron magnetism

1 INTRODUCTION 2 DERIVATION OF THE SINGLE-PARTICLE SCHRODINGER EQUATION: DENSITY AND SPIN-DENSITY-FUNCTIONAL THEORY 3 ENERGY BAND THEORY 4 ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE AND ITINERANT ELECTRON MAGNETISM 5 MAGNETISM OF ITINERANT ELECTRON SYSTEMS AT FINITE TEMPERATURES APPENDIX: THE ASW PROGRAMME BIBLIOGRAPHY
That ‘Uncertain Feeling’ and Project Management

At the start of a new product development project, a manager usually has three things: time, money and uncertainty. His problem is to reduce or eliminate the uncertainty by spending the time and money in the most economic way possible. A manager is guided in this task by his company's management policies. But suppose that some of these policies are no longer adequate under today's time pressure and with today's cost spirals. How can management policy makers study the impact of their policies on the performance of their product development organization? This article describes a tool for examining project management which might be an answer.
Self-assembly of quantum dots in a thin epitaxial film wetting an elastic substrate

The evolution of quantum dots (QDs), resulting from the Asaro-Tiller-Grinfeld instability of an epitaxially strained thin solid film deposited on a solid elastic substrate, is considered. For a film that wets the substrate, a nonlocal integro-differential equation is derived that describes the evolution of QDs in the long-wave limit. The contribution of a wetting stress, that accounts for the change in wetting energy due to variation of the film thickness caused by the film deformation, is included. It is found that wetting interactions can damp the long-wave perturbations and lead to Turing-type instability. By means of a weakly nonlinear analysis, general conditions for the wetting potential are found for which the formation of spatially periodic arrays of QDs is possible. It is shown that in either the case of a two-layer or a glued-layer wetting potential, the spatially regular arrays of QDs are unstable. The numerical simulations show that the QD's evolution exhibits a power-law coarsening, with different characteristics giving different exponents.
Nonlinear analysis of partial dopamine agonist effects on cAMP in C6 glioma cells.

Abstract Most drugs have some efficacy so that improved methods to determine the relative intrinsic efficacy of partial agonists should be of benefit to preclinical and clinical investigators. We examined the effects of partial D 1 or partial D 2 dopamine agonists using a partial agonist interaction model. The dependent variable was the modulation of the dopamine-receptor-mediated cAMP response in C6 glioma cells selectively and stably expressing either D 1 or D 2 recombinant dopamine receptors. The dissociation constant ( K B ) and relative intrinsic efficacy ( E r ) for each partial agonist were calculated using a partial agonist interaction null model in which the effects of fixed concentrations of each partial agonist on the dopamine dose–response curve were evaluated. This model is an extension of the competitive antagonist null model to drugs with efficacy and assumes only that the log-dose–response curve is monotonic. Generally, the partial agonist interaction model fit the data, as well as fits of the independent logistic curves. Furthermore, the partial agonist K B values could be shared across partial agonist concentrations without worsening the model fit (by increasing the residual variance). K B values were also similar to drug affinities reported in the literature. The model was validated in three ways. First, we assumed a common tissue stimulus parameter ( β ) and calculated the E r values. This provided a qualitative check on the interaction model results. Second, we calculated new relative efficacy values, E r ( β ), using the β estimate. Third, we calculated relative efficacy using relative maxima times midpoint shift ratios (J. Theor. Biol. 198 (1999) 347.). All three methods indicated that the present model yielded reasonable estimates of affinity and relative efficacy for the set of compounds studied. Our results provide a quick and convenient method of quantification of partial agonist efficacy. Special applications and limitations of the model are discussed. In addition, the present results are the first report of the relative intrinsic efficacy values for this set of D 2 ligands.
Surface runoff contribution of nitrogen during storm events in a forested watershed

We examined total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) loading to a small forested stream during storm events. We hypothesized that upper soil and litter layers in riparian area are primary source of higher TKN concentrations during storm. A storm water sampling program was carried out to gather requisite flow and water quality data to calibrate and validate water and nutrient components of the Riparian Ecosystem Management Model for TKN. Water quality and storm flow data collected from January 2000 to December 2003 were used to simulate the hydrology and nitrogen transport over a second-order watershed within the Fort Benning Military Installation, Georgia. Intensive sampling conducted from October 2002 to May 2003 provided the necessary data to characterize the rising limb, peak, and recession limb of six major storm events. Simulated runoff and storm TKN loads were compared with their corresponding observed or calculated values. Hydrology and nitrogen data collected from February 21, 2003 to December 31, 2003 were used for the model validation. The hydrology component of the model showed a Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency of 87% for the validation period. The average absolute difference between simulated and calculated TKN loads was 25%. Even though the monthly water budget indicated the dominance of subsurface flow, TKN contribution from direct runoff was significantly greater than that from subsurface flow. On an average, 73% of the observed total TKN load at the watershed outlet was contributed by surface runoff during storm events. The results suggested that the surface runoff during the storm events washed off the nitrogen from the forest floor and transported to the stream.
Effects of human ANF-(99-126) on sympathetic nerve function, hemodynamic parameters and plasma cGMP levels in anesthetized, ganglion-blocked dogs.

Abstract The ability of human ANF-(99–126) (ANF) to affect neuronal function, plasma cGMP levels or various hemodynamic parameters was tested in anesthetized dogs subjected to ganglionic blockade which prevented reflex changes in sympathetic tone. In each group of dogs, heart rate changes due to electrical stimulation of the cardioaccelerator nerve at 0.5, 1, 3 and 10 Hz were measured before and after ANF or vehicle infusion. A possible direct effect of ANF on the β-adrenoceptor mechanisms was assessed by evaluating changes in heart rate after i.v. administration of isoproterenol (a β-adrenoceptor agonist). The results showed that i.v. infusion of ANF (200 pmol/kg per min for 60 min), but not vehicle, produced significant inhibition of heart rate responses to low frequency nerve stimulation (0.5–1 Hz) when compared to vehicle 30 min after the end of infusion; high frequency (10 Hz) responses remained unaffected. A significant ( P ( t 1 2 = 25.1 ± 2.2 min ) . Cardiac output also tended to fall during infusion and remained significantly reduced (−18%) 30 min after infusion's end; blood pressure fell without a decrease in total peripheral resistance. Thus, ANF produced a direct, frequency-dependent depressant action on sympathetic nerve function, reduced both cardiac output and blood pressure, and enhanced chronotropic responses to β-adrenoceptor stimulation. These persistent changes in hemodynamic parameters and neuronal function may contribute to the mechanism of action of ANF.
Mechanics of Electrospun Polycaprolactone Nanofibers

Electrospun biomaterials are gaining popularity as scaffolding for engineered tissues. This fibrous scaffolding of natural or synthetic polymers can mimic properties of the natural extra-cellular matrix. Moreover, undifferentiated cells seeded onto and within an electrospun matrix may be directed to differentiate into a desired tissue type through the application of the appropriate biochemical and mechanical conditions. It is becoming clear that the mechanical deformation of any electrospun matrix plays an important role in cell signaling. However, electrospun biomaterials have inherently complex geometries due to the random deposition of fibers during the electrospinning process. Even “aligned” electrospun matrices generate off-axis forces under load. This complex fiber geometry complicates any attempt at quantifying forces exerted on adherent cells during electrospun matrix deformation.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
The synthesis and reactions of potassium benzoylphosphide, benzoylphosphine, and benzoylmethylphosphine.

Abstract Reaction of potassium dihydrogenphosphide with aromatic esters produces potassium benzoylphosphide (1). Protonation of 1 produces benzoylphosphine 2. The physical and chemical properties of 1 and 2 are discussed.
Analysis of larval and pupal development in the tobacco hornworm (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae), Manduca sexta.

A study of growth and development was performed on nondiapausing Manduca sexta larvae and pupae to determine whether a reliable method for staging the animal could be generated. Using arbitrary times after ecdysis, weights were taken and a critical time/weight range developed for each of the five stadia. Particular attention was given to the last stadium due to its transitional position in development. In the fifth stadium it was found that a gate assignment could be made as early as 36 h after ecdysis. The pupa can be easily staged by examining several key morphological features through the pupal cuticle.
An About-Face for C-Reactive Protein?

Human C-reactive protein (CRP)2 is a liver-synthesized blood constituent, the production of which increases rapidly and robustly in parallel with tissue damage, infection, and trauma (1). Owing to this predictable behavior, increases in the blood concentration of CRP have long been used as a clinical gauge of inflammation (2). More recently, with the introduction of higher-sensitivity laboratory assays, it has become apparent that even a modestly increased baseline CRP concentration in healthy individuals correlates tightly with their increased future risk of cardiovascular disease (3, 4). More than 20 prospective epidemiologic studies carried out in populations of individuals with no prior history of cardiovascular disease have demonstrated that a single CRP measurement at baseline is a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events (4). The relationship between an increased baseline CRP concentration and vascular risk is apparent for both men and women and remains consistent in studies from around the world. In most cases, this relationship is independent of traditional risk factors, including age, smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol concentrations (4). A high preprocedural baseline CRP value is also associated with an increased occurrence of fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction after percutaneous coronary interventions (4, 5). Notably, the reduction in blood CRP that accompanies statin therapy improves clinical outcomes and decreases the progression of atherosclerotic coronary disease independent of cholesterol lowering, a finding that highlights the possibility of using CRP as a therapeutic target (6–8). Despite indisputable evidence that CRP is associated with inflammation and the risk of cardiovascular disease, the question of whether CRP contributes to either process remains enigmatic. If CRP does participate in the cardiovascular disease process, how does it do so? The report by Fujita et al. in this issue of Clinical Chemistry (9) provides a new clue to help answer …
Sheltering and Housing Recovery Following Disaster

Reestablishing housing is a critical factor for understanding recovery processes, whether one is addressing the phenomenon at the household or community level. Researchers examining household or family recovery, for example, have utilized a variety of measures or indicators to capture different dimensions of recovery including psychological or perceptional measures related to stress, and sense of loss and recovery to more objective indicators such as regaining income, employment, household amenities, and household assets (Bates, 1982; Bolin, 1976, 1982, 1993, 1994; Bolin & Bolton, 1983; Bolin & Trainer, 1978; Peacock, Killian, & Bates, 1987). However, this research also suggests that fundamental to an overall assessment of household recovery is reestablishing permanent housing, or in the vernacular, home, because without establishing home, the ability of a household to carry out normal activities and reestablish a routine is limited and hampered (Bates & Peacock, 1987, 1993; Bolin & Trainer, 1978; Quarantelli, 1982). In short, delays in reestablishing housing all too often delay all other dimensions of recovery (Bolin, 1986).
INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES IN INFORMATION-PROCESSING ABILITY AS A PREDICTOR OF MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS

The objectives of this investigation were two-fold: to replicate and extend prior research that has provided evidence to support the use of information-processing measures as potential indices for predicting motor vehicle accident involvement and to test a newly developed measure of visual selective attention for predicting accident involvement. Seventy-two drivers (aged from 28 to 59) were tested on three measures of information processing. In accordance with prior research, performance on two measures of selective attention was significantly correlated with individual accident rates. Information-processing measures are discussed with regard to their possible use in the prediction of motor vehicle accidents.
An Organ Cryopreservation Apparatus

Hardware necessary for cryopreservation of the isolated rat heart is described, consisting of a perfusion system and a temperature controller. The controller automatically impresses a linear temperature-time profile on the organ system with a temperature range of +40°C to -40°C. It is of the analog feedback type and features both rate and proportional feedback. Maximum temperature rate of change is ±8°C/min with this system and long term stability is ±0.5°C over 24 h. Biological applications of this device are discussed.
Induction for Headteachers: Choosing the Right Focus.

Recent suggestions to encourage the development of programmes to assist new headteachers have tended to suggest that induction is a simple process which requires little more than providing general information needed by newcomers during the first few weeks in a new environment. John Daresh, Director of the Division of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies of the University of Northern Colorado, and Marsha Playko, Principal of Hazelwood Elementary School in Newark, Ohio, suggest that this is not enough. Without a comprehensive understanding of the multiple goals of such induction, it is unlikely to be effective.
Comments on Handbooks: A Non-Believer or a Convert?

The article discusses the publication of academic handbooks, focusing on the fields of applied linguistics, second language acquisition (SLA), and language teaching. The author argues that constantly revised handbooks may be useful for an academic discipline, noting the reputation of the 91st edition of the "Handbook of Chemistry and Physics." Other topics include the differences between handbooks and textbooks, the role of handbooks in academic disciplines, and the author's experience of co-editing the "Handbook of Second Language Acquisition."
Impact of historical land‐use changes on greenhouse gas exchange in the U.S. Great Plains, 1883–2003

European settlement of North America has involved monumental environmental change. From the late 19th century to the present, agricultural practices in the Great Plains of the United States have dramatically reduced soil organic carbon (C) levels and increased greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes in this region. This paper details the development of an innovative method to assess these processes. Detailed land-use data sets that specify complete agricultural histories for 21 representative Great Plains counties reflect historical changes in agricultural practices and drive the biogeochemical model, DAYCENT, to simulate 120 years of cropping and related ecosystem consequences. Model outputs include yields of all major crops, soil and system C levels, soil trace-gas fluxes (N2O emissions and CH4 consumption), and soil nitrogen mineralization rates. Comparisons between simulated and observed yields allowed us to adjust and refine model inputs, and then to verify and validate the results. These verification and validation exercises produced measures of model fit that indicated the appropriateness of this approach for estimating historical changes in crop yield. Initial cultivation of native grass and continued farming produced a significant loss of soil C over decades, and declining soil fertility led to reduced crop yields. This process was accompanied by a large GHG release, which subsided as soil fertility decreased. Later, irrigation, nitrogen-fertilizer application, and reduced cultivation intensity restored soil fertility and increased crop yields, but led to increased N2O emissions that reversed the decline in net GHG release. By drawing on both historical evidence of land-use change and scientific models that estimate the environmental consequences of those changes, this paper offers an improved way to understand the short- and long-term ecosystem effects of 120 years of cropping in the Great Plains.
Half a diagnosis: gap in confirming infection among hepatitis C antibody-positive patients.

Abstract Background Recent guidelines recommend testing all individuals born during 1945-1965 for hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody. For antibody-positive patients, subsequent RNA testing is necessary to determine current infection status. This study aimed to assess whether clinicians order HCV RNA tests as recommended for antibody-positive patients and to identify barriers to such testing. Methods We sampled individuals newly reported to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's HCV surveillance system and collected information from clinicians. For patients without RNA test results, we asked the reason an RNA test was not ordered and requested that the clinician order the test. Results Of 245 antibody-positive patients, 67% were tested for HCV RNA (for 21% of these, the test was ordered only after our request); 33% had no RNA testing despite our request. Patients without RNA testing were seen in medical facilities (47%), detox facilities (30%), and jail/prison (15%). Reasons RNA testing was not done were that the patient did not return for follow-up (35%), the facility does not do RNA testing (22%), and the patient was tested in jail (15%). Conclusions In our study, one third of patients did not get complete testing for accurate diagnosis of HCV, which is essential for medical management. Additional education for clinicians about the importance of RNA testing may help. However, with improved antiviral treatments now available for HCV, it is time for reflex HCV RNA testing for positive antibody tests to become routine, just as reflex Western blot testing is standard for human immunodeficiency virus.
Partial penetrance facilitates developmental evolution in bacteria

Development normally occurs similarly in all individuals within an isogenic population, but mutations often affect the fates of individual organisms differently. This phenomenon, known as partial penetrance, has been observed in diverse developmental systems. However, it remains unclear how the underlying genetic network specifies the set of possible alternative fates and how the relative frequencies of these fates evolve. Here we identify a stochastic cell fate determination process that operates in Bacillus subtilis sporulation mutants and show how it allows genetic control of the penetrance of multiple fates. Mutations in an intercompartmental signalling process generate a set of discrete alternative fates not observed in wild-type cells, including rare formation of two viable 'twin' spores, rather than one within a single cell. By genetically modulating chromosome replication and septation, we can systematically tune the penetrance of each mutant fate. Furthermore, signalling and replication perturbations synergize to significantly increase the penetrance of twin sporulation. These results suggest a potential pathway for developmental evolution between monosporulation and twin sporulation through states of intermediate twin penetrance. Furthermore, time-lapse microscopy of twin sporulation in wild-type Clostridium oceanicum shows a strong resemblance to twin sporulation in these B. subtilis mutants. Together the results suggest that noise can facilitate developmental evolution by enabling the initial expression of discrete morphological traits at low penetrance, and allowing their stabilization by gradual adjustment of genetic parameters.
Consilience and Life History Theory: From Genes to Brain to Reproductive Strategy.

We describe an integrated theory of individual diVerences that traces the behavioral development of life history from genes to brain to reproductive strategy. We provide evidence that a single common factor, the K-Factor, underpins a variety of life-history parameters, including an assortment of sexual, reproductive, parental, familial, and social behaviors. We explore the psychometrics and behavioral genetics of the K-Factor and oVer a speculative account of the proximate mediation of this adaptive patterning of behavior as instantiated in well-established functions of speciWc areas of the human brain, including the frontal lobes, amygdala, and hippocampus. We then apply Life History Theory to predict patterns of development within the brain that are paedomorphic (i.e., development begins later, proceeds at a slower rate, and has an earlier cessation) and peramorphic (i.e., development begins early, proceeds at a faster rate, and has a later cessation).
Ajulemic acid, a synthetic cannabinoid, increases formation of the endogenous proresolving and anti-inflammatory eicosanoid, lipoxin A4

Ajulemic acid (AjA), a synthetic nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, and lipoxin A4 (LXA4), an eicosanoid formed from sequential actions of 5- and 15-lipoxygenases (LOX), facilitate resolution of inflammation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the ability of AjA to limit the progress of inflammation might relate to an increase in LXA4, a known anti-inflammatory and proresolving mediator. Addition of AjA (0–30 μM) in vitro to human blood and synovial cells increased production of LXA4 (ELISA) 2- to 5-fold. Administration of AjA to mice with peritonitis resulted in a 25–75% reduction of cells invading the peritoneum, and a 7-fold increase in LXA4 identified by mass spectrometry. Blockade of 12/15 LOX, which leads to LXA4 synthesis via 15-HETE production, reduced (>90%) the ability of AjA to enhance production of LXA4 in vitro. These results suggest that AjA and other agents that increase endogenous compounds that facilitate resolution of inflammation may be useful for conditions characterized by inflammation and tissue injury.—Zurier, R. B., Sun, Y.-P., George, K. L., Stebulis, J. A., Rossetti, R. G., Skulas, A., Judge, E., Serhan, C. N. Ajulemic acid, a synthetic cannabinoid, increases formation of the endogenous proresolving and anti-inflammatory eicosanoid, lipoxin A4.
Preventing the Spread of Pertussis in Pediatric Healthcare Settings

The surge in pertussis incidence in recent years underscores a critical need for effective plans to prevent transmission in pediatric healthcare settings. Adolescents and adults are common sources of infection for unimmunized or incompletely immunized infants and children with waning immunity. Despite documented outbreaks being limited in size, pertussis poses a threat to pediatric healthcare facilities due to the risk for widespread transmission, potentially severe complications among vulnerable patient populations, and high outbreak control-related costs. Healthcare personnel, visitors, and parents have been identified as sources of outbreaks, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts to prevent transmission in these settings. This comprehensive review demonstrates that the risk of pertussis transmission in pediatric healthcare settings warrants heightened focus on strategies to recognize disease earlier, improve diagnostic evaluation, and facilitate effective contact tracing and post-exposure prophylaxis measures. This review suggests that healthcare personnel can play a significant role in the prevention of healthcare-associated pertussis.
Endoscopic retrograde intrahepatic cholangiography in liver diseases

Particular attention to the radiographic characteristics of the intrahepatic bile duct system was directed to a series of 56 patients selected on the basis of having nearly simultaneous endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and liver biopsy. Careful attention to details of the fine ductal configuration may contribute information helpful in resolving the differential diagnosis of intrahepatic disease.
Ultrasound probe pressure as a source of error in prostate localization for external beam radiotherapy

Abstract Purpose A pelvic phantom was constructed to evaluate the effect of ultrasound probe pressure during performance of bipolar acquisition technique (BAT) for prostate localization for radiotherapy. Methods and materials A pelvic phantom of a gelatin mold with a water-filled balloon representing the bladder and rectum and a central encapsulated clay sphere representing the prostate was constructed. This phantom was then scanned using planning computed tomography (CT). The geometric information of the phantom was outlined in two planes. The phantom was then scanned using the BAT system with mild and moderate ultrasound probe pressure. Differences in prostate depth between the CT and BAT systems were displayed. Results A difference of 1 cm between the phantom surface and the prostate could be produced with moderate ultrasound probe pressure. The differences were similar between the CT- and BAT-generated contours and were dependent on the ultrasound probe pressure. Conclusion Care must be taken not to cause any alteration in prostate localization with increasing ultrasound probe pressure when using BAT localization. Increased probe pressure may introduce errors in prostate localization and under dose the target.
Iron carburization in CO‐H2‐He gases, Part II: Numerical model

A numerical model for the carburization of iron in CO-H2-He mixtures was developed and compared with experimental data over the temperature range of 850°C–1150°C, CO partial pressures from 1% to 12%, and H2 partial pressures from 5% to 99%. The reaction mechanism was established on the basis of data input from recent quantum mechanical and molecular dynamics calculations as well as from rate constant estimates from kinetic and transition state theory. Sensitivity and reaction flux analyses were performed to identify the rate-controlling and fastest reactions. Model predictions of carbon weight gain in iron samples versus time were compared with experimental data. The most sensitive reactions were refined by least-squares fitting the model to the experiment. The resulting model can simulate and predict the trends of iron carburization in CO-H2-He-CO2-H2O mixtures for most conditions studied experimentally. Critical reactions and model parameters are identified for additional study to improve the model and understanding of the carburization mechanism. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 41: 337–348, 2009
Importance of detrital algae, bacteria, and organic matter to littoral microcrustacean growth and reproduction

Cumulative incorporation of radiolabeled algal (NaH14CO3) and bacterial (14C-acetate) carbon associated with benthic organic matter (BOM) was measured at timed intervals to determine the relative importance of algal, bacterial, and detrital components of BOM to the growth and reproduction of Eurycercus vernalis (Chydoridae). Five times more algal than bacterial carbon was incorporated, which corresponded to relative amounts of algal and bacterial carbon quantified from the BOM. Algal and bacterial carbon provided 38% and 8% of the carbon required for Eurycercus growth and reproduction, respectively. Approximately 54% of the carbon required for Eurycercus growth was presumably provided by nonlabeled microbes (e.g., fungi, protists) or detritus. Parallel studies were conducted to measure the growth and reproduction for Eurycercus fed diets varying in amounts of algae, bacteria, and detritus. Effects of diet were especially noticeable in early instar growth and reproduction. Individuals fed diets with high algal and bacterial biomass relative to detrital content exhibited higher maximum somatic growth rates (75–89% d 21 ) than those fed aggregate and particulate detritus (51–60%). Egg production and net reproductive rate were highest for females fed nutrient-supplemented algae and corresponded to increased survivorship, early reproduction, and larger clutches. Survivorship was highest for females fed aggregate detritus; however, the percentage of total growth allocated toward egg production was similar for individuals fed aggregate detritus and cultured algae (67–82%). Relative trophic importance of algae and bacteria as constituents of BOM likely depends on their relative abundance, but the two in combination can be substantially more important than the detritus alone.
Variational theory of the cyclotron-emission source distribution from a mode-conversion layer

This paper presents the theory of an inhomogeneous source of cyclotron emission from a three-branch mode-conversion layer in a non-uniformly magnetized plasma. The physical formulation of the problem is based on the generalized Kirchhoff's law that relates, branch by branch, the emission to the absorption. General integral expressions for both absorbed and emitted energy fractions along each wave branch are obtained. A discrete multi-point model of absorbers and emitters is analysed. A variational principle for the integral of the emitted power is formulated.
Three perspectives on non-uniform linguistic attainment

D^hrowska's target article comes at a time when the study of individual diflerences is a more prominent "in thing" than ever in both native and non-native language studies. For example, the cover of the most recent research report of the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics proclaims: "Individual differences are a hallmark of our language faculty," and an upcoming issue of Language Learning is devoted to individual differences in second language learning. The variable of literacy, which D^browska considers a key element of a range of language-experiential influences on grammar development and language processing, is receiving renewed attention. For example, Huettig, Singh and Mishra (2011) find that high-literate Indian participants are faster than low-literates in directing their gaze to images of objects referenced in spoken sentences. Highliterates may be better able than low-literates to use grammatical and semantic information from sentence context to predict upcoming words. The skills that might underlie language development — and individual differences in the trainability of such skills — are actively investigated these days as well. Chandrasekaran et al. (2010), looking at the L2 acquisition of Mandarin pitch tone, found that individuals who were successful in the task attended to the direction of pitch contour change, and were also more trainable in pitch direction detection than less successful participants. Individual differences in the acquisition of L2 linguistic tones appear to be related to superior neural representation of pitch patterns in the inferior colliculus (Chandrasekaran et al., 2011). ^ Of course, inter-individual variability in language skills, academic achievement, intelligence, trainability, and literacy has not been ignored over the years. With respect to the literacy factor, for example, Fletcher (1981) showed in a picture
Structural changes in the plasma membrane accompanying differentiation of epithelial cells in human and monkey small intestine

Abstract The activity of most enzymes associated with microvillus membranes increases as immature small intestinal epithelial cells differentiate and migrate from crypt to villus. Also, it has been suggested that crypt epithelium may be more permeable to small molecules than villus epithelium. We used freeze-fracture techniques to determine whether the number of microvillus intramembrane particles (IMPs) (which are thought to represent integral membrane proteins), or the dimensions and organization of tight junctions (which may relate to epithelial permeability) change during maturation of human jejunal and monkey jejunal and ileal epithelium. Intramembrane particles were systematically counted on microvilli from the lower crypt to the upper villus. Tight-junction depth, strand number, and organization were also assessed. As crypt cells mature and migrate onto the villus, the average density of microvillus protoplasmic face intramembrane particles more than doubles in human jejunum, in monkey jejunum, and in monkey ileum. Goblet cell and caveolated cell microvilli were relatively particle poor. Depth of tight junctions from crypt to villus surface increased in human and monkey jejunum and in monkey ileum. Likewise, the number of strands was greater in villus than in crypt tight junctions for all three tissues studied. Tight junctions became more organized on the villus, losing the aberrant strands found in the crypt. Monkey ileal tight junctions were deeper and had more strands than monkey jejunal tight junctions. Goblet cell tight junctions varied greatly in structure from cell to cell. In the crypts, rounded, presumably mitotic cells displayed extensive loose strands that resembled tight junction elements, but were scattered over the entire basolateral membrane. In conclusion, (a) the reported increase in specific activity of microvillus membrane enzymes as absorptive cells migrate from crypt to villus is accompanied by an increase in IMPs; (b) tight junctions between crypt cells are less deep and less organized than those between villus cells, suggesting that the crypt epithelium may be more permeable than that of the villus; (c) the depth and strand numbers of villus tight junctions are greater in the ileum than in the jejunum, paralleling known regional permeability differences; and (d) because the population of tight junctions within the intestinal epithelium is heterogeneous, the permeability of the epithelium as a whole may reflect this heterogeneity, rather than being solely dependent on the tight-junction structure of the villus absorptive cells.
Comparison between the loading capacities of columns packed with partially and totally porous fine particles. What is the effective surface area available for adsorption

Abstract The adsorption isotherms of phenol, caffeine, insulin, and lysozyme were measured on two C18-bonded silica columns. The first one was packed with classical totally porous particles (3 μ m Luna(2)-C18from Phenomenex, Torrance, CA, USA), the second one with shell particles (2.7 μ m Halo-C18 from Advanced Materials Technology, Wilmington, DE, USA). The measurements were made at room temperature ( T = 295 ± 1 K), using mainly frontal analysis (FA) and also elution by characteristic points (FACP) when necessary. The adsorption energy distributions (AEDs) were estimated by the iterative numerical expectation-maximization (EM) procedure and served to justify the choice of the best adsorption isotherm model for each compound. The best isotherm parameters were derived from either the best fit of the experimental data to a multi-Langmuir isotherm model (MLRA) or from the AED results (equilibrium constants and saturation capacities), when the convergence of the EM program was achieved. The experiments show than the loading capacity of the Luna column is more than twice that of the Halo column for low-molecular-weight compounds. This result was expected; it is in good agreement with the values of the accessible surface area of these two materials, which were calculated from the pore size volume distributions. The pore size volume distributions are validated by the excellent agreement between the calculated and measured exclusion volumes of polystyrene standards by inverse size exclusion chromatography (ISEC). In contrast, the loading capacity ratio of the two columns is 1.5 or less with insulin and lysozyme. This is due to a significant exclusion of these two proteins from the internal pore volumes of the two packing materials. This result raises the problem of the determination of the effective surface area of the packing material, particularly in the case of proteins. This area is about 40 and 30% of the total surface area for insulin and for lysozyme, respectively, based on the pore size volume distribution validated by the ISEC method. The ISEC experiments showed that the largest and the smallest mesopores have rather a cylindrical and a spherical shape, respectively, for both packing materials.
The Krach of 1882, the Bourse de Paris and the Importance of Microstructure

The crash of the French stock market in 1882 presented the Paris Bourse with its worst crisis of the late nineteenth century. Three features of exchange's microstructure, a dominant forward market, a small number of brokers, and a common fund that guaranteed brokers' transactions, amplified the collapse. Using new archival data, this paper shows that the bourse's common fund, designed to guarantee the liquidity of the exchange from idiosyncratic shocks, made it susceptible to systemic shocks. Only an emergency loan from the Bank of France saved the bourse. Neither the New York nor the London exchanges, which had very different structures, experienced similar liquidity crises.
Absolute cross section for producing C-11 from carbon by 270-MeV/nucleon N-14 ions.

The cross section for producing $^{11}\mathrm{C}$ from carbon irradiated by 270-MeV/nucleon $^{14}\mathrm{N}$ has been found to be 90.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 4.6 mb. The measurement was made using internal counting in plastic scintillators of three different thicknesses; the nitrogen beam was monitored by nuclear emulsions.
Racial/ethnic differences in atrial fibrillation symptoms, treatment patterns, and outcomes: Insights from Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation Registry.

Background Significant racial/ethnic differences exist in the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, less is known about racial/ethnic differences in quality of life (QoL), treatment, and outcomes associated with AF. Methods Using data from the Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation, we compared clinical characteristics, QoL, management strategies, and long-term outcomes associated with AF among various racial/ethnic groups. Results We analyzed 9,542 participants with AF (mean age 74 ± 11 years, 43% women, 91% white, 5% black, 4% Hispanic) from 174 centers. Compared with AF patients identified as white race, patients identified as Hispanic ethnicity and those identified as black race were younger, were more often women, and had more cardiac and noncardiac comorbidities. Black patients were more symptomatic with worse QoL and were less likely to be treated with a rhythm control strategy than other racial/ethnic groups. There were no significant racial/ethnic differences in CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc stroke or ATRIA bleeding risk scores and rates of oral anticoagulation use were similar. However, racial and ethnic minority populations treated with warfarin spent a lower median time in therapeutic range of international normalized ratio (59% blacks vs 68% whites vs 62% Hispanics, P Conclusion Relative to white and Hispanic patients, black patients with AF had more symptoms, were less likely to receive rhythm control interventions, and had lower quality of warfarin management. Despite these differences, clinical events at 2 years were similar by race and ethnicity.