cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Extraction of Am(III) and Fe(III) by Selected Dihexyl N,N-Dialkylcarbamoylmethyl-phosphonates, -Phosphinates and -Phosphine Oxides from Nitrate Media

Abstract A series of neutral bifunctional extractants related to dihexyl N,N,-diethylcarbamoylmethylphosphonate (DHDECMP) have been prepared and studied for the liquid-liquid extraction of Am(III) and Fe(III) from nitrate solutions. Changes in the steric bulk of the substitutent alkyl chains and in the electro-negativity of the groups attached to the phosphoryl center in these compounds have brought about large changes in distribution ratios and selectivities for the extraction of these metals. Comparisons of these extractants to related monofunctional phosphorus-based compounds have revealed that these bifunctional species behave as monodentate, rather than chelating, extractants. The presence of the carbamoyl portion of the extractant molecules is important not for coordination to the metal, but for the ability to buffer the extractant against the effects of HNO3.
Bonding strength of a carbon nanofiber array to its substrate

The bonding strength of a carbon nanofiber array (CNFA) grown on a copper substrate is evaluated based on the measured shearing force-at-failure and the developed analytical stress model that enables one to determine the magnitude and the distribution of the interfacial shearing stress causing the measured (given) shearing force. The experiment is conducted using specially designed test specimens. A table version of the Instron tester is used to measure the applied force and the corresponding displacement in shear. The maximum predicted shear-off stress is about 300 psi (0.211 kgf/m2), and was determined, based on the developed stress model, as a product of the measured 5 kgf/m force at the interface failure and the computed parameter k = 0.0422 m–1 of the interfacial shearing stress.
The development of critical thinking among students in baccalaureate nursing education

Students entering nursing education present with a range of critical-thinking skills and dispositions that are affected by genetic influences, modeling by others, and formal learning experiences. The experience of higher education further contributes, positively or negatively, to the development of those skills and dispositions over time. A conceptual framework is presented as a model to explain the relationship between variables contributing to critical thinking as it is manifested in clinical judgment. A developmental model is presented to align the development of cognitive capabilities and the application of those capabilities in the subprocesses of the nursing process. Implications for nurse educators related to the understanding of critical-thinking development of students are discussed.
Electrostatic effects in macromolecules: fundamental concepts and practical modeling

The past few years have seen an exponential growth in the calculations of electrostatic energies of macromolecules and an increased recognition of the crucial role of electrostatic effects. This review considers the current state of the field. Focus is placed on calculations of pKas, redox potentials and binding energies in macromolecules and clarification of the fact that the value of the dielectric ‘constant’ of a protein depends on its definition and that small dielectric constants should not be used in describing charge—charge interactions by current continuum models.
Image reconstruction for the circle-and-arc trajectory

Proposed is an exact shift-invariant filtered backprojection algorithm for the circle-and-arc trajectory. The algorithm has several important features. First, it allows for the circle to be incomplete. Second, axial truncation of the cone beam data is allowed. Third, the length of the arc is determined only by the region of interest and is independent of the size of the entire object. The algorithm is quite flexible and can be used for even more general trajectories that consist of several circular segments and arcs. The algorithm applies also in the case when the circle (or, circles) is complete. A numerical experiment with the clock phantom demonstrated good image quality.
Collateral flow as causative of good outcomes in endovascular stroke therapy

Background Endovascular reperfusion techniques are a promising intervention for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Prior studies have identified markers of initial injury (arrival NIH stroke scale (NIHSS) or infarct volume) as predictive of outcome after these procedures. We sought to define the role of collateral flow at the time of presentation in determining the extent of initial ischemic injury and its influence on final outcome. Methods Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiographic data were prospectively collected on a consecutive cohort of patients who received endovascular therapy for acute cerebral ischemia at a single tertiary referral center from September 2004 to August 2010. Results Higher collateral grade as assessed by the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology (ASITN/SIR) grading scheme on angiography at the time of presentation was associated with improved reperfusion rates after endovascular intervention, decreased post-procedural hemorrhage, smaller infarcts on presentation and discharge, as well as improved neurological function on arrival to the hospital, discharge, and 90 days later. Patients matched by vessel occlusion, age, and time of onset demonstrated smaller strokes on presentation and better functional and radiographic outcome if found to have superior collateral flow. In multivariate analysis, lower collateral grade independently predicted higher NIHSS on arrival. Conclusions Improved collateral flow in patients with AIS undergoing endovascular therapy was associated with improved radiographic and clinical outcomes. Independent of age, vessel occlusion and time, in patients with comparable ischemic burdens, changes in collateral grade alone led to significant differences in initial stroke severity as well as ultimate clinical outcome.
Cyclization of short DNA fragments and bending fluctuations of the double helix

Cloutier and Widom [Cloutier, T. E. & Widom, J. (2004) Mol. Cell 14, 355–362] recently reported that the cyclization efficiency of short DNA fragments, about 100 bp in length, exceeds theoretical expectations by three orders of magnitude. In an effort to resolve this discrepancy, we tried modifying the theory. We investigated how the distribution of the angles between adjacent base pairs of the double helix affects the cyclization efficiency. We found that only the incorporation of sharp kinks in the angle distribution provides the desired increase of the cyclization efficiency. We did not find a model, however, that fits all cyclization data for DNA fragments of different lengths. Therefore, we carefully reinvestigated the cyclization of 100-bp DNA fragments experimentally and found their cyclization efficiency to be in remarkable agreement with the traditional model of DNA bending. We also found an explanation for the discrepancy between our results and those of Cloutier and Widom.
Bevacizumab in recurrent high-grade pediatric gliomas

Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor, has shown promise in treating recurrent adult high-grade glioma (HGG). However, there is very little data on recurrent or progressive pediatric HGG treated with bevacizumab. We report the results of a single institution experience using bevacizumab and irinotecan in children who relapsed or progressed following standard therapy. Twelve pediatric patients with recurrent or progressive HGG received bevacizumab at 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks with irinotecan at 125 mg/m(2). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed prior to therapy and every 8 weeks subsequently. Ten patients had supratentorial HGG; 2 had DIPG. Radiological responses were defined according to MacDonald's criteria. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicities were analyzed. Ten (83.3%) patients tolerated bevacizumab without serious toxicity. Therapy was discontinued in 1 patient because of anaphylaxis. Another patient developed grade III delayed wound healing and deep vein thrombosis. Two patients (16.7%) experienced a partial response after the first MRI. No complete radiographic responses were seen. Stable disease was noted in 4 (33.3%) patients. The median PFS and OS were 2.25 and 6.25 months, respectively. A diffuse invasive recurrence pattern was noted in 5 (45.5%) patients. Treatment tolerance, toxicity, and recurrence profiles were comparable to adult HGG patients treated with bevacizumab. However, the radiological response rate, response duration, and survival appeared inferior in pediatric patients. Genetic differences in pediatric gliomas might account for this difference.
Immersive environment technologies for planetary exploration

Immersive environments are successfully being used to support mission operations at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This technology contributed to the Mars Pathfinder Mission in planning sorties for the Sojourner rover. Results and operational experiences with these tools are being incorporated into the development of the second generation of mission planning tools. NASA's current plan includes two rovers being deployed to Mars in 2003 and early 2004. The next generation Rover Control Workstation utilizes existing technologies and more to provide a multimodal, collaborative, partially immersive environment. This system includes tools for planning long range sorties for highly autonomous rovers, tools for building the three-dimensional (3D) models of the terrain being explored, and advanced tools for visualizing telemetry from remote spacecraft and landers. These tools comprise a system for immersing the operator in the environment of another planet, body, or space to make the mission planning function more intuitive and effective.
Federal Principles for Government Reorganization

1) Reorganization should be recognized first as a problem of politics and policy and only then as a matter of management. Priority must be given to values, goals and purposes that we desire from our political institutions: from these will flow the imperatives of organization. Reorganization for its own sake, simply to tidy-up organizational charts, may make matters worse. One of our values lies in the federal system itself; it is a non-centralized system of government, and any approach to reorganization must come up with plans compatable with it.
Disorders of the equine thyroid gland.

Regulatory control of the thyroid gland in horses is similar to other species. Clinical signs of hypothyroidism in adult horses are minimal. Several drugs and physiologic and pathophysiological states can cause circulating thyroid hormone concentrations to be low without actual pathology of the thyroid gland. Thus, nonthyroidal factors must be ruled out before a diagnosis of hypothyroidism can be made. Thyroid hormone supplementation seems to be well tolerated, even in euthyroid horses. Neonatal foals have very high circulating thyroid hormone concentrations, and deficiencies result in significant clinical signs. Unlike in adults, two syndromes of hypothyroidism are well described in foals.
Calcium Absorption During Coccidial Infections in Chicks

Abstract Four week-old broiler chicks were singly infected by oral administration of Eimeria acervulina, Eimeria necatrix, Eimeria brunetti, or Eimeria tenella oocysts. At intervals throughout the resulting infections, calcium absorption was determined by measurement of the amount of the oral dose of radiocalcium that appeared in the blood stream of the infected birds at intervals of 1, 4, and 8 hours post dosing. Calcium absorption was increased on the first day of all infections and was decreased on the sixth day of infections by E. acervulina, E. necatrix, and E. brunetti; but not by E. tenella. Thus, in contrast to zinc, oleic acid, protein, and certain amino acids, calcium appeared to be absorbed throughout the length of the small intestine.
A component-based approach to building formal analysis tools

Automatic-verification capability tends to be packaged into stand-alone tools, as opposed to components that are easily integrated into a larger software-development environment. Such packaging complicates integration because it involves translating internal representations into a form compatible with the stand-alone tool. By contrast, lightweight-analysis components package analysis capability in a form that does not involve such a translation. Borrowing ideas from GenVoca and object-oriented design patterns, we developed a domain model and an automatic generation framework for lightweight-analysis components. The generated components operate directly over the internal form of a specification without requiring a change in representation. Moreover, the domain model identifies several "useful subsets" that can be used to customize analysis capability to a particular application. We validated this domain model by generating lightweight analyzers for temporal logic and the behavioral subset of Lotos.
Resolvin D1 Receptor Stereoselectivity and Regulation of Inflammation and Proresolving MicroRNAs

Resolution of acute inflammation is an active process that involves the biosynthesis of specialized proresolving lipid mediators. Among them, resolvin D1 (RvD1) actions are mediated by two G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs), ALX/FPR2 and GPR32, that also regulate specific microRNAs (miRNAs) and their target genes in novel resolution circuits. We report the ligand selectivity of RvD1 activation of ALX/FPR2 and GPR32. In addition to RvD1, its aspirin-triggered epimer and RvD1 analogs each dose dependently and effectively activated ALX/FPR2 and GPR32 in GPCR-overexpressing β-arrestin systems using luminescence and electric cell–substrate impedance sensing. To corroborate these findings in vivo, neutrophil infiltration in self-limited peritonitis was reduced in human ALX/FPR2-overexpressing transgenic mice that was further limited to 50% by RvD1 treatment with as little as 10 ng of RvD1 per mouse. Analysis of miRNA expression revealed that RvD1 administration significantly up-regulated miR-208a and miR-219 in exudates isolated from ALX/FPR2 transgenic mice compared with littermates. Overexpression of miR-208a in human macrophages up-regulated IL-10. In comparison, in ALX/FPR2 knockout mice, RvD1 neither significantly reduced leukocyte infiltration in zymosan-induced peritonitis nor regulated miR-208a and IL-10 in these mice. Together, these results demonstrate the selectivity of RvD1 interactions with receptors ALX/FPR2 and GPR32. Moreover, they establish a new molecular circuit that is operative in the resolution of acute inflammation activated by the proresolving mediator RvD1 involving specific GPCRs and miRNAs.
Networked Sensing and Distributed Kalman-Bucy Filtering Based on Dynamic Average Consensus

This paper presents the formulation of distributed Kalman-Bucy filter algorithm for a network of autonomous sensors, which is modeled as a connected undirected graph. Development of the distributed Kalman-Bucy filter is formulated as two average consensus problems in terms of weighted inverse of measurement noise covariance matrices and weighted measurements. The proposed algorithm utilizes the static average consensus protocol to solve the first consensus problem and the proportional-integral based dynamic average consensus protocol to solve the latter. The distributed Kalman-Bucy filter algorithm is optimal in the sense that the performance of the proposed algorithm asymptotically approaches that of a centralized filter. Numerical simulations are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed scheme.
Dipylidium Caninum Mimicking Recurrent Enterobius Vermicularis (Pinworm) Infection

Pinworm infection is a very common diagnosis in young children that is not always confirmed through laboratory evaluation before empiric therapy is prescribed. This article describes a toddler who was treated several times for pinworms because small white worms were seen in her perianal area. Laboratory analysis of parasite material found in her diaper later confirmed a diagnosis of dipylidiasis. Because the signs of dipylidiasis and pinworm infection overlap and the treatments for these parasitic infections are different, the laboratory should clinically confirm suspected persistent or recurrent pinworms.
A pilot study of mechanical stimulation and cardiac dysrhythmias in a porcine model of induced hypothermia.

Abstract Background.—Hypothermia is a frequent complication of cold weather exposure and/or wilderness injuries. Anecdotal reports have postulated that patients suffering from acute hypothermia are at significantly increased risk of developing lethal cardiac dysrhythmias secondary to the physical stimulation from moving and transporting patients. Objective.—To develop a model to attempt to determine if rough handling and sudden movement can induce lethal cardiac dysrhythmias in a controlled animal study of mild to severe hypothermia. Methods.—Ten anesthetized swine had continuous cardiac and invasive blood pressure (BP) monitoring. Core body temperature (CBT) was measured with an esophageal probe. Animals were secured to a backboard in a supine position for the duration of the study and their CBT was serially lowered by external cooling measures. At preset intervals (every 3°C lowered from the baseline CBT of 38°C), the animals were lifted via the backboard and rolled 90 degrees to the left and held for 5...
Community-Wide Implementation of Targeted Testing for and Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection

Treatment of latent infection due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis will likely increase in importance as a strategy to prevent tuberculosis in the United States. This review was undertaken to assess how targeted testing and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection are currently organized, with a focus on the extension of those services from public health clinics to other community sites. Targeted testing programs are now being implemented in primary care neighborhood clinics, syringe-exchange programs, jails, and teen health clinics. Organizational issues at those new sites include the need for a tracking system for clinical follow-up and for incentives to promote adherence. There is increasing experience with directly observed treatment of latent tuberculosis infection. Communities that receive large numbers of immigrants and refugees should prioritize the evaluation of those whose chest radiographs are suggestive of tuberculosis. Current studies continue to point out imperfections in the current tools, such as the tuberculin skin test and isoniazid. Finally, the advent of managed care, especially for Medicaid recipients, presents both opportunities and challenges for expansion of population-based preventive health services.
Detection of free radicals as a consequence of rat intestinal cellular drug metabolism

Because the intestine is the first pass organ for orally administered drugs and because some of these drugs are known to undergo oxidative metabolism leading to the formation of free radicals, we investigated the potential for this to occur in cell suspensions of rat enterocytes. As part of our study, the effect of intracellularly produced superoxide on cellular metabolism was investigated. The drugs chosen were the quinone, menadione and the aromatic nitro-containing compound, nitrazepam. On incubation of both drugs with isolated enterocytes and the spin trap, 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO), rapid appearance of an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum was recorded which was characteristic of hydroxyl radicals being spin trapped by DMPO giving 2,2-dimethyl-5-hydroxy-1-pyrrolidenyloxyl (DMPO-OH). Experiments were conducted which determined that the EPR spectrum of DMPO-OH resulted from the initial spin trapping of superoxide by DMPO to yield the corresponding nitroxide, 2,2-dimethyl-5-hydroxyl-1-pyrrolidenyloxyl (DMPO-OOH). Bioreduction of DMPO-OOH by glutathione peroxidase led to the rapid formation of DMPO-OH. We believe this enzymic pathway accounted for the EPR spectrum noted in incubations with either drug in the presence of the spin trap, DMPO. The incubation of enterocytes with both drugs did not mediate release of 51Cr nor lactate dehydrogenase. However, production of 14CO2 from [14C]glucose was severely inhibited (4-5-fold) in the presence of both drugs, while the incorporation of [14C]leucine into trichloroacetic acid precipitable protein was antagonized by menadione only. We conclude that superoxide can be demonstrated to arise as the result of enterocyte metabolism of menadione or nitrazepam. The consequence of oxidative metabolism of these drugs results in cellular dysfunction.
Interplanetary Transport Mechanisms of Solar Energetic Particles

Numerical simulations of charged particle trajectories in a Parker field with model turbulence are used to study the transport mechanisms of solar energetic particles (SEPs): magnetic focusing, pitch-angle diffusive transport due to magnetic fluctuations, and adiabatic cooling. The results of the simulations are compared with analytical formulae for the transport effects. We find that adiabatic cooling is significant for SEPs traveling from the Sun to 1 AU. The simulation results agree much better with the anisotropic adiabatic cooling effect theory than with the isotropic one. Also, we show that the simulation results agree well with the theory of magnetic focusing with pitch-angle scattering by magnetic fluctuations. In addition, in order for quasilinear theory to be valid, the average particle's Larmor radius must be much smaller than the correlation scale of the two-dimensional component of turbulence.
Hospice and Where the Doctor Can Be

ticulately describes the challenging and conflicting emotions that hematologists and oncologists feel when they learn of the death of patients to whom they have become close while caring for them during their illness. He discusses the sense of abandoning their patients that physicians may experience when referring their patients for hospice care. We do not know the detailed circumstances of Geynisman’s patients that led to his inability to participate in their care when they entered hospice, but we do wish to remind our hematology and oncology colleagues that when they refer their patients for hospice care, they need not abandon them. Medicare does allow the hospice attending of record to bill Medicare part B for professional services that are provided to the patient. 2 These are not limited to care relating to the terminal illness and are billed separately from the fees that are paid to the hospice medical director. The hospice physicians and nurses provide a close supportive and consultative/advisory role. This allows patients and their families to maintain continuity of care and to know that the physician who walked with them through their challenging journey of malignant disease has not abandoned them. This includes the potential for continued office visits when appropriate, which can still be reimbursed at standard rates. Support from the hospice team often also allows the physician to manage the patient’s care from a distance, when travel back to the clinic would be an excessive burden for the patient and family, with the hospice team serving as the remote physician’s eyes and ears. Home visits, when practical, are greatly rewarding and remembered by the family long after the patient dies. Although challenging, it can also be immensely gratifying to support patients and families whom we have come to know so well during this most difficult time in their lives.
Pollution-induced injury in North American forests: facts and suspicions

Summary Toxic gases are the only airborne chemicals that have been demonstrated to cause detrimental effects on forest trees in North America. Ozone is the only regionally dispersed pollutant known to have injured foliage, decreased radial growth, decreased resistance to insects and diseases, and increased mortality of sensitive tree species over a wide geographic range. All of these effects have been observed in eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) throughout its natural range, in some conifers and hardwood trees in southern California, and in a few tree species in the central Appalachian Mountains. Very little research has been done to determine effects of airborne chemicals on forests as a whole. At present, there is no conclusive evidence that acid deposition or other regionally dispersed pollutants are affecting the productivity of any forest in North America.
Atypical patterns of segregation of familial enlargement of the vestibular aqueduct

Objectives/Hypothesis Hearing loss and enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) can be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait caused by mutant alleles of the SLC26A4 gene. In some other families, EVA does not segregate in a typical autosomal recessive pattern. The goal of this study was to characterize the SLC26A4 genotypes and phenotypes of extended families with atypical segregation of EVA. Study Design Prospective study of cohort of families ascertained between 1998 and 2014 at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center. Methods Study subjects were members of eight families segregating EVA in at least two members who were not related as siblings. Evaluations included pure-tone audiometry, temporal bone imaging, SLC26A4 nucleotide sequence analysis, SLC26A4-linked marker genotype and haplotype analysis, and pedigree analysis. Results One family had members with EVA caused by different etiologies, and two families had pseudodominant inheritance of recessive mutations of SLC26A4. In five families, the etiology remained unknown and could include inheritance of mutant alleles at another genetic locus, nongenetic influences, or a combination of these factors. Conclusions Familial EVA can demonstrate a variety of atypical segregation patterns. Pseudodominant inheritance of SLC26A4 mutations or recessive alleles of other hearing loss genes may be more likely to occur in families in which deaf individuals have intermarried. The etiologic basis of atypical segregation of EVA without detectable SLC26A4 mutations remains unknown. Future studies of these families may reveal novel genes for EVA. Level of Evidence NA Laryngoscope, 2015
The Efficacy of Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) in an Outpatient Pediatrics Clinic

This prospective study was done to measure the effectiveness of a CAI program in teaching outpatient pediatrics to third-year medical students, as measured by their scores on the mandatory pediatrics examination taken at the end of their pediatrics rotation. A significant difference was found between the number of students receiving Honors vs. Satisfactory scores on their examinations between those who worked at our hospital before vs. after the CAI program became available; there was also a statistically significant difference between the number of students who received Honors on their pediatrics examinations when comparing the Harborview-after-computer group to the Other-locations-after-computer group. Such a CAI program appears to be an effective learning aid for medical students doing their outpatient pediatrics rotations. It affords information about costs to the patient, is omnipresent and is an effective alternative to either lecture or reading as a method of learning.
The Changing Mechanical Properties of Aging Oil Paints

The stiffening and embrittlement of oil paints over time has been a real concern for those responsible for the long term care and preservation of paintings. This paper examines the effects of time, pigments, relative humidity (RH), temperature and solvents on the mechanical properties of traditional oil paints. In this way it is possible to determine the role of each factor in causing the paints to become brittle. Even after 14 years the oil paints show little evidence that the long term “maturing” processes have begun to slow down. It is shown that there seems to be little correlation between the time paint requires to “dry-to-the-touch” and the longer term mechanical properties. Both low and high temperature levels can increase the stiffness of the paints though the mechanisms are quite different. Considerable hydrolysis of the paints occurs early in their history and the ones that hydrolyze most quickly are the ones that remain the most flexible.
A Technique for Evaluating Functional Patency of the Oviduct

A technique utilizing microspheres for the evaluation of tubal patency and ovum transport function in the rabbit is described. After iv injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) uteri were exposed and a Geiger-Muller (G-M) tube was inserted so that the end was immediately proximal to the utero-tubal junction. A single 400-450 mcm microsphere was placed in the tubal ampulla on the side containing the G-M tube. The method was tested in 3 groups of animals: 1) controls treated with HCG alone 2) animals treated with progesterone and 3) animals ligated at the midampullar region. The method detected uterine entry of the microsphere or failure of transport in every instance. This system permits evaluation of various compounds for their effects on ovum transport rates in rabbits.
Correlation of recruitment order with axonal conduction velocity for supraspinally driven diaphragmatic motor units

Spontaneous activities of pairs of single diaphragmatic motor units (MUs) were recorded via two electrodes in anesthetized cats, ventilated with CO2 added to the inspired gas, which slightly enhanced respiratory drive (endtidal CO2 less than 6%). These MUs were characterized by their axonal conduction velocities (CVs) and relative onset times (defined as the time after onset of phrenic nerve activity until the MU began discharging divided by the duration of inspiration). Motor unit axonal CV was estimated by the conduction time and the distance between two points on the phrenic nerve. Results were compared from two experimental preparations: one with dorsal roots intact and the other with dorsal roots transected bilaterally between fourth (C4) and seventh (C7) cervical segments. Estimated mean CV for phrenic MUs was 46.2 m/s(n = 180 MU). Motor units were classified as early and late recruited MUs depending on their relative onset times. We correlated MU axonal CV with its relative recruitment time. A highly significant (P less than 0.0001), positive correlation between axonal CV and relative recruitment time was established for those diaphragmatic MUs recruited with this respiratory drive. Correlation coefficients were r = 0.70 for intact animals, r = 0.72 for dorsal rhizotomized animals, and r = 0.72 overall population. For pairs of MUs, the CV of the earlier recruited unit was compared with the CV of the later recruited unit. In 96% of pairs from intact animals and 92% of pairs from dorsal rhizotomized animals, the first MU had a lower CV than the MU recruited later. Difference in relative times of recruitment was directly related to difference in axonal CVs. However, a portion of the motor pool with high-axonal CVs was not sampled. Under conditions of these experiments, afferent input in cervical dorsal roots, including that from diaphragmatic receptors, did not influence the distribution of MU relative onset times. Further, a similar proportion of MU pairs wherein the earlier recruited MU had a CV lower than the later recruited unit was observed in intact and dorsal rhizotomized animals. We also cross-correlated 31 pairs of simultaneously recorded MUs to assess common input onto phrenic motoneurons. Common input was characterized by the presence of peaks having widths of greater than or equal to 3 ms in the cross-correlation histograms (CCHs) and occurring within 20 ms of the trigger event. Peaks were judged significant if the bin with the largest number of occurrences was significantly greater than base line and if neighboring bins were above base line.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Imaging Resolution Improvement Using Transverse Phase Amplification

Transverse phase amplification of spatially multimode beams can be achieved via phase-sensitive optical parametric amplification. Transverse phase amplification of the signal in the canonical imaging problem can improve imaging resolution beyond the Rayleigh limit.
IMPLICATIONS OF LONG-TERM SURVIVAL IN ACUTE STEM CELL LEUKEMIA OF CHILDHOOD TREATED WITH COMPOSITE CYCLIC THERAPY.

The results of 9 years’ experience with acute stem cell (lymphoblastic) leukemia treated with a combination of steroids and antimetabolites, designated as "composite cyclic therapy" (CCT), are described and their theoretical implications are discussed. In 175 patients surviving at least one month after diagnosis the per cent survivals were: 17.2 months (50 per cent), 27.5 months (25 per cent), and 45.0 months (10 per cent). Six patients were alive in uninterrupted remission at the close of the study, from 4-9 years after diagnosis. The mean survival of the expired patients was 17.7 months, with a median of 14.5 months. The mean duration of the first remission was 15.2 months with a median of 12.5. The therapeutic response in terms of remission rate and total survival was significantly better in stem cell leukemia, as defined cytologically at the time of original diagnosis, than in other types, suggesting that the effect of steroids on the former is at least in part specific for malignant cells of lymphoid origin. A highly significant difference within the group of stem cell leukemia was observed between patients with initially low as compared to high white blood count, the dividing line being at 20,000 cells/mm.,3 the latter having twice the mean survival of the former. Of the 44 patients achieving survival of 2 years or more only one had an initial white count of more than 20,000. In conjunction with chromosome studies published elsewhere these findings suggest that the initial white count is a parameter, possibly of immunologic nature, indicative of the partial retention or complete loss of control over leukemic mutant cells. The possibility is discussed, on the basis of theoretical considerations and the observed role of long first remissions in the total survival time, that conditions and measures taken in the early stages of therapy may be decisive for the ultimate course. The current evidence for the mutational nature of acute leukemia permits the theoretical distinction between remission as the temporary suppression of a mutant stem line as opposed to a "cure" representing its permanent elimination, and to explain occasional apparent cures, including some observed in the present series, on that basis. Clinically, combined cyclic therapy or CCT appears to be superior to the use of single antimetabolites. The withholding of steroids until these drugs become ineffective does not at present appear justified.
Study tour examines health care systems in Germany, Holland--Part II: The German system.

In October 1992, the American College of Physician Executives sponsored a study tour to Berlin, Germany, and Amsterdam, Holland. Meetings were held with government officials, third-party payers, and providers, and on-site visits were made at hospitals, clinics, and academic centers. The purpose was to study the health care delivery system in those countries and to share some insights with the countries' hosts on the U.S. system. In a series of reports that began in the July issue of the journal, 5 of the 10 study tour participants describe their impressions of the tour and of the health care systems in the countries that were visited. In the first report, the health care delivery systems of the United States, Germany, and Holland were compared. In this report, the German system is analyzed in greater detail.
Integrated electrodes and electrospray emitter for polymer microfluidic nanospray–MS interface

Interfacing of microfluidic devices to mass spectrometry has challenges including dilution from sheath liquid junctions, fragile electrodes, and excessive dead volumes which prevent optimum performance and common use. The goal of this work is to develop a stable nanospray chip-MS interface that contains easily integrated electrodes and an embedded capillary emitter to mitigate current chip-MS problems. This system uses a hybrid polystyrene-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PS-PDMS) microfluidic platform with an embedded electrode and integrated capillary emitter used as the nanospray interface. Two chip designs were used to evaluate the performance, illustrate on-chip reaction capabilities. By direct infusion, this system showed good performance with LODs of GSH and caffeine of 9 nM and 1 nM, R2 of 0.996 and 0.992 and sensitivity of 12 counts/nM and 332 counts/nM over a linear dynamic range of 40 nM to 50 μM and 1 to 50 μM respectively. A reaction was performed on the chip with syringe pumps showing the oxidation of glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) using H2O2. The on-chip reaction of GSH oxidation to GSSG, with online-MS detection, successfully demonstrate the stability and robustness of the nanospray interface.
Imprint of Ancient Evolution on rRNA Folding.

In a model describing the origin and evolution of the translation system, ribosomal RNA (rRNA) grew in size by accretion [Petrov, A. S., et al. (2015) History of the Ribosome and the Origin of Translation. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 112, 15396–15401]. Large rRNAs were built up by iterative incorporation and encasement of small folded RNAs, in analogy with addition of new LEGOs onto the surface of a preexisting LEGO assembly. In this model, rRNA robustness in folding arises from inherited autonomy of local folding. We propose that rRNAs can be decomposed at various granularities, retaining folding mechanism and folding competence. To test these predictions, we disassembled Domain III of the large ribosomal subunit (LSU). We determined whether local rRNA structure, stability, and folding pathways are autonomous. Thermal melting, chemical footprinting, and circular dichroism were used to infer rules that govern folding of rRNA. We deconstructed Domain III of the LSU rRNA by mapping out its complex multist...
Health effects of manganese exposures for welders in Qingdao City, China.

Objectives To document if manganese from welding causes health effects including neurological symptoms associated with manganese exposure. Material and methods An anonymous questionnaire survey for a total of 505 welders at 3 welding facilities in Qingdao City, China was administered and analyzed. Results Numerous symptoms were reported by the welders including difficulty with eyes for 43% of them, sore throat for 30% of them, and tremors were reported by over 18% of them. Tremors were associated with longer periods of work as a welder and correlated with the relative cleanliness at the 3 different facilities. Tremors did not correlate with smoking. Conclusions Manganese-exposed welders reported a variety of symptoms related to work and showed neurological disturbances that correlated with amount of exposure. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2017;30(2):241-247.
Demonstration of 3.5 µm Ga1-xInxSb/InAs superlattice diode laser

A demonstration of a semiconductor diode laser based on a type-II Ga /sub 1-x/In/sub x/Sb/InAs superlattice active layer is reported. The laser structure uses InAs/AlSb superlattice cladding layers and a multiquantum well active layer with GaInAsSb barriers and Ga/sub 1-x/In/sub x/Sb/InAs-superlattice wells. An emission wavelength of 3.47 mu m for pulsed operation up to 160 K is observed.
Growth Hormone Deficiency after Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Children Who Have Not Received Cranial Radiation.

Abstract Chemotherapy-related growth failure is a significant problem in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Growth impairment after cranial radiation (CR) is likely to result in diminished adult height, but growth impairment following chemotherapy without CR is usually followed by catch-up growth and normal final height. We report two ALL survivors treated with chemotherapy without CR who required growth hormone (GH) replacement due to absence of catch-up growth. A 15 year old boy and a 12 year old girl, off therapy for 9 and 6 years, respectively, developed growth failure. Peak GH responses to stimulation using arginine and clonidine were inadequate, 3.4 ng/ml and 0.1–3.0 ng/ml, respectively (normal >10 ng/ml). Additional studies included bone age, magnetic resonance imaging of the hypothalamic-pituitary area, insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), insulin-like growth factor-binding protein (IGF-BP3), and thyroid function tests. Other causes of growth failure were ruled out; the children had received neither CR nor radiation of the long bones, were not subjected to transplantation, and showed no evidence of premature puberty or hypothyroidism. Chemotherapy included methotrexate, 6 mercaptopurine, vincristine, adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, l-asparaginase, dexamethasone, cytarabine, 6 thioguanine, and intrathecal methotrexate. Both children responded to GH replacement therapy. Of 235 ALL survivors treated at our single institution since 1997 with chemotherapy without CR, the 2 we report here were diagnosed with GH deficiency resulting in growth deceleration, generally thought to be primarily a complication of CR. Children treated for ALL should be carefully monitored for growth failure.
Social Learning in a Distributed Environment: Lessons Learned from Online Design Education

This chapter explores social learning theories and communities of practice through the contextual lens of barriers to adopting online education, specifically within the design field of landscape architecture. Social learning theory is present in a several ways. First, it informs the underlying research approach, a consensus-building activity known as Delphi study. The chapter explores social aspects of learning and the formation of learning communities. Finally, social learning theories provide a mechanism to mitigate faculty concerns and facilitate the creation of an online collaborative learning and design space. Subsequently, by examining meaningful application, our understanding of learning is enriched and expanded.
Effective Targeting of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Harboring the FLT3 ITD Mutation through the Axl/Gas6 Pathway

Abstract 500 Approximately 30% of AML patients harbor activating mutant forms of Fms-like tyrosine kinase-3 (FLT3) such as internal tandem duplications (ITD). To date, targeting FLT3 ITD+ AML patients with FLT3 inhibitors has not improved outcomes, suggesting alternative strategies should be pursued. Axl is a type III receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) which is, along with its ligand Gas6, over-expressed in AML leukemic blasts and correlated with a poor prognosis. In the present study, we asked if blocking the autocrine Axl/Gas6 pathway could impact aberrant proliferation and survival of FLT3 ITD+ AML cells. We used a soluble Axl receptor, termed Axl-Fc, to block autocrine binding of Gas6 to Axl. The FLT3 ITD+ AML cell line MV4;11 was treated with Axl-Fc in vitro for 4 days and showed a significant reduction in cell proliferation (4.1 ± 0.73 × 106 cells for isotype control (IC) Fc vs. 2.1 ± 0.56 × 106 cells for Axl-Fc, p Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Structure and Binding Studies of PqqD, a Chaperone Required in the Biosynthesis of the Bacterial Dehydrogenase Cofactor Pyrroloquinoline Quinone

Biosynthesis of the ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide (RiPP), pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), is initiated when the precursor peptide, PqqA, is recognized and bound by the RiPP precursor peptide recognition element (RRE), PqqD, for presentation to the first enzyme in the pathway, PqqE. Unlike other RiPP-producing, postribosomal peptide synthesis (PRPS) pathways in which the RRE is a component domain of the first enzyme, PqqD is predominantly a separate scaffolding protein that forms a ternary complex with the precursor peptide and first tailoring enzyme. As PqqD is a stable, independent RRE, this makes the PQQ pathway an ideal PRPS model system for probing RRE interactions using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Herein, we present both the solution NMR structure of Methylobacterium extorquens PqqD and results of 1H–15N HSQC binding experiments that identify the PqqD residues involved in binding the precursor peptide, PqqA, and the enzyme, PqqE. The reported structural model...
Effect of Split Fertilizer Application and Irrigation Volume on Nitrate-Nitrogen Concentration in Container Growing Area Soil

Abstract Outdoor-grown, containerized, Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Ell. and Rhododendron ‘Roseum Elegans’ were grown atop soil-filled boxes that had been recessed into a grassed field in separate s...
Numbers Assigned in the Vietnam-Era Selective Service Lotteries Influence the Military Service Decisions of Children Born to Draft-Eligible Men: A Research Note

Previous research has reported correlations between the military service records of parents and their children. Those studies, however, have not determined whether a parent’s military service causa...
Optical Transitions and Excitonic Properties of Ge1–xSnx Alloy Quantum Dots

Using hybrid functional calculations and experimental characterization, we analyze optical properties of 2–3 nm Ge1–xSnx alloy quantum dots, synthesized by colloidal chemistry methods. Hybrid functional theory, tuned to yield experimental bulk band structure of germanium, reproduces directly measured properties of Ge1–xSnx quantum dots, such as lattice constants, energy gaps, and absorption spectra. Time-dependent hybrid functional calculations yield optical absorption in good agreement with experiments, and allow probing the nature of the dark excitons in quantum dots. Calculations suggest a spin-forbidden dark exciton ground state, which is supported by the changes in the photoluminescence lifetimes with temperature and tin concentrations. The synthesis and theoretical understanding of Ge1–xSnx alloy quantum dots will add to the overall toolbox of low to nontoxic, silicon-compatible group IV semiconductors with potential application in visible to near-infrared optoelectronics.
Addressing Stigma in Medication Treatment of Adolescents With Opioid Use Disorder

: In September 2016, the American Academic of Pediatrics released a policy statement that adolescents with opioid use disorder should be offered pharmacotherapy with buprenorphine/naloxone, methadone, or naltrexone. In our clinical practice, however, we have encountered the perception among patients, families, and clinicians alike that medications should be used as a last resort. That we should wait until things get worse is a discarded approach. As addiction specialists, it is imperative that we prevent and identify risky use and use disorders, then intervene early and offer timely, evidence-based treatment. We suggest that adolescents deserve special attention and that specific efforts should be made to reduce the stigma associated with treating adolescents with opioid use disorder with medications to optimize those efforts.
Preparation and value assignment of Standard Reference Material 968c Fat-Soluble Vitamins, Carotenoids, and Cholesterol in Human Serum☆

Standard Reference Material 968c Fat-Soluble Vitamins, Carotenoids, and Cholesterol in Human Serum provides certified values for retinal, delta-, gamma-, and alpha-tocopherol, trans- and total beta-carotene, and cholesterol in human serum. Values are also reported for 16 additional compounds including lutein, zeaxanthin, alpha- and beta-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, alpha-carotene, retinyl palmitate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. The certified values for the fat-soluble vitamins and carotenoids in SRM 968c were based on the agreement of results from the means of at least two liquid chromatographic methods used at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and from the medians from an interlaboratory comparison study among institutions that participate in the NIST Micronutrients Measurement Quality Assurance Program. The assigned values for cholesterol in the SRM are the means of results obtained using the NIST definitive method, gas chromatography-isotope dilution mass spectrometry.