cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of temperature on nanoparticle clustering

Abstract A multiscale computational approach was applied to study the evolution of soot formation in an ethylene flame environment, from small polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons of less than 10 atoms, to nano-sized organic carbon (NOC) clusters of diameters up to 15 nm. As this evolution covers sizable breadth in time and length scales, the application of a sequence of complementary computational approaches was employed. To model NOC particle aggregation, the coarse grain method allowed for molecular dynamics simulation of over 13,000 nanoparticles (106 atoms), for hundreds of nanoseconds. Notable growth in both the number and size of particles was observed when temperature was dropped from 1800 to 300 K. A test of input sensitivity determined little noticeable effect upon inclusion of electrostatic interactions of atomic-centered partial charges. These results provide insights on the influence of temperature on nanoparticle aggregation in flames. This could also assist in the analysis of experimental measurements of methods which allow for sample cooling in the period from extraction to detection.
Testosterone regulates erectile function and Vcsa1 expression in the corpora of rats.

Abstract Vcsa1 plays an important role in the erectile physiology of the rat. We conducted experiments to determine if erectile function, testosterone levels and Vcsa1 expression were correlated. In orchiectomized rats, total testosterone in blood fell from an average of 4 ng/ml to 6-fold) decreased. Injection of orchiectomized animals with testosterone (2 mg in 100 ml sesame oil every 4 days for 2 weeks) restored average levels of testosterone to 2 ng/ml, increased erectile function and significantly increased Vcsa1 expression. In isolated corporal cells there was testosterone dependent Vcsa1 expression. However, intracorporal injection of orchiectomized animals with a plasmid expressing Vcsa1 or its gene product Sialorphin (previously demonstrated to improve erectile function in old animals) gave no significant improvement in erectile function. Also, the ability of Sialorphin to reduce tension in corporal smooth muscle strips isolated from orchiectomized animals was impaired compared to controls.
A contribution to the theory of preferential interaction coefficients.

Abstract A simple and complete derivation of the relation between concentration-based preferential interaction coefficients and integrals over the relevant pair correlation functions is presented for the first time. Certain omissions from the original treatment of pair correlation functions in multicomponent thermodynamics are also addressed. Connections between these concentration-based quantities and the more common molality-based preferential interaction coefficients are also derived. The pair correlation functions and preferential interaction coefficients of both solvent (water) and cosolvent (osmolyte) in the neighborhood of a macromolecule contain contributions from short-range repulsions and generic long-range attractions originating from the macromolecule, as well as from osmolyte-solvent exchange reactions beyond the macromolecular surface. These contributions are evaluated via a heuristic analysis that leads to simple insightful expressions for the preferential interaction coefficients in terms of the volumes excluded to the centers of the water and osmolyte molecules and a sum over the contributions of exchanging sites in the surrounding solution. The preferential interaction coefficients are predicted to exhibit the experimentally observed dependence on osmolyte concentration. Molality-based preferential interaction coefficients that were reported for seven different osmolytes interacting with bovine serum albumin are analyzed using the this formulation together with geometrical parameters reckoned from the crystal structure of human serum albumin. In all cases, the excluded volume contribution, which is the volume excluded to osmolyte centers minus that excluded to water centers in units of V ¯ 1 , exceeds in magnitude the contribution of the exchange reactions. Under the assumption that the exchange contribution is dominated by sites in the first surface-contiguous layer, the ratio of the average exchange constant to its neutral random value is determined for each osmolyte. These ratios all lie in the range 1.0±0.15, which indicates rather slight deviations from random occupation near the macromolecular surface. Finally, a mechanism is proposed whereby the chemical identity of an osmolyte might be concealed from partially ordered multilayers of water in clefts, grooves, and pits, and its consequences are noted.
Comparison of NBL CRM 112-A and Ampoulated Uranyl Nitrate Solution by TIMS Analysis: Initial Verification of a Potential Normal Uranium Isotope-Amount Ratio Reference Material

Abstract An ampoulated uranyl nitrate solution has been compared with NBL CRM 112-A for isotopic-amount ratios as initial verification work for a future mass spectrometry-specific Normal Uranium (NU) reference material. Randomly selected ampoules of the NU solution were analyzed to assess homogeneity of the production run. The comparison analyses were performed by TIMS using Total Evaporation (TE) and Modified Total Evaporation (MTE) methods. No difference was found for the n(235U)/n(238U) and n(234U)/n(238U) isotope-amount ratios between the NU solution and the CRM 112-A material. Moreover, the NU solutions appear to be isotopically homogenous with no statistically significant unit-to-unit difference observed.
A Biopsy System for Intraocular Specimens

We have developed biopsy forceps for retrieval of fine intraocular specimens. Fixation is performed while the specimen is still held in the forceps, thus preserving the orientation of the specimen. The specimen is then placed on an orientation stub to prevent curling during post-fixation and dehydration procedures and to permit evaluation by scanning electron microscopy.
The effect of cold work on the precipitation of Ω and θ′ in a ternary Al-Cu-Mg alloy

The effect of plastic deformation on the microstructural evolution of an Al-5.0Cu-0.5Mg (wt pct) ternary alloy was investigated. Hardness measurements and quantitative precipitate analysis were performed on specimens that were water quenched from a solution heat treatment, stretched either 0 or 6 pct and immediately aged at ambient temperature or artificially aged at 200 °C or 250 °C for times up to 3000 hours. Quantitative transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to characterize Ω and θ′ number density, diameter, and thickness as a function of preage mechanical stretch and artificial aging condition. Age hardening curves for naturally and artificially aged specimens revealed an increase in hardness corresponding with a preage stretch. Quantitative TEM verified an increase in the number density and a refinement of precipitates for both Ω and θ′ between the 0 and 6 pct stretch condition for those samples artificially aged. When aged at 200 °C, θ′ exhibited superior coarsening resistance relative to the Ω phase. The quantified Ω coarsening kinetics were greater than similar Ag-containing alloys. To investigate the effects of trace Si additions on subsequent microstructural evolution, a series of Al-Cu-Mg-Si quaternary alloys were produced. The addition of 0.1Si (wt pct) was found to suppress Ω precipitation in most Al-4.0Cu-xMg alloys investigated. These initial results indicate that Ω precipitation may be related to the Mg/Si ratio.
A Model of Muddling Through

As arguments about the effectiveness of “muddling through” have proven frustratingly inconclusive, incrementalism—once a major approach to the study of boundedly rational policy processes—has gone dormant. In an attempt to revitalize the debate, I present a formal model of muddling through. The model, by clarifying the logical structure of the informal theory, presents a clearer target for criticism. More importantly, it establishes numerous deductive results. First, some of Lindblom's less controversial conjectures—about the benefits of seriality (repeated attacks on the same policy problem) and redundancy (multiple decision makers working on the same problem)—turn out to be correct if conflict across policy domains is absent or takes certain specified forms. But given other empirically reasonable types of conflict, even these claims are wrong. Second, the advantages of incremental (local) policy search (Lindblom's best-known and most controversial claim) turn out to be still less well founded: in many empirically plausible contexts the claim is invalid.
An analysis of the left ventricular response to isometric exercise

Abstract Analysis of the left ventricular response to isometric exercise was performed in a group of patients undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization. A normal response was observed in nine patients with normal resting hemodynamics (Group I). This response consisted of a significant increase in LV stroke work associated with minor changes (average increase of 2 mm. Hg) in LV end-diastolic pressure. Significant increases were consistently observed in the isovolumic indices of myocardial contractility. These findings indicate that the normal left ventricle responds to this form of exercise by improving its contractile state and to a minor degree by increasing preload, thus maintaining a constant stroke volume in the presence of an increased afterload. To test whether the increase in contractility observed during isometric exercise was related to the increase in heart rate, isovolumic indices of contractility were measured in eight patients during atrial pacing at a rate equal to that achieved during exercise. Isometric exercise was associated with a higher level of myocardial contractility than atrial pacing. In addition, a significant improvement in the isovolumic indices was observed in four out of five patients subjected to isometric exercise at a constant heart rate (atrial pacing). Thus, it seems that in addition to the “treppe” effect, other factors independent of heart rate are involved in augmenting myocardial contractility during isometric exercise. Ten patients (Group II) responded to exercise with a marked increase in LVEDP but little change in LV stroke work; five patients (Group III) responded with only a minor change in LVEDP (similar to Group I) but with no improvement in LV stroke work. Myocardial contractility also failed to increase in most of these patients. Isometric exercise uncovered abnormalities of LV performance not identified by the resting hemodynamics in a significant number of patients.
Activation of Methane by MH+(M = Fe, Co, and Ni): A Combined Mass Spectrometric and DFT Study†

A mass spectrometric method is used to study the reaction of MH + (M = Fe, Co, and Ni) with methane to form MCH 3 + and H 2 over a wide temperature range from 80 to 850 K. The reaction energy barriers are measured to be 11.7, 1.9, and <0 kcal/mol for Fe, Co, and Ni, respectively. However, the exothermicities of the reactions are close for Fe, Co, and Ni: 5.4, 2.3, and 5.4 kcal/mol, respectively. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are carried out to complement the experimental observations. The DFT calculations indicate that both the MH + reactant and the MCH 3 + product prefer to have a 3d n - 1 4s 1 electron configuration for their metal centers but a 3d" configuration for the metal center in its transition state, MHHCH 3 + ; consequently, a crossing between high-spin (3d n - 1 4s 1 ) and low-spin (3d") potential energy surfaces (PESs) takes place at both the entrance and the exit channels of the reaction. The calculated activation energies of 14.3, 4.7, and -1.7 kcal/mol are in good agreement with the experiments. The differences in the activation energies are ascribed to the differences in the energy separation between the 3d n - 1 -4s 1 and the 3d n states for Fe + , Co + , and Ni + . It costs an additional 3.1 kcal/mol for the Fe + center to alter its electron configuration from the FeH + reactant to the MHHCH 3 + transition state; however, Co + and Ni + benefit from the change of the electron configurations by 5.7 and 13.9 kcal/mol, respectively.
Modulation of Immune Response by B7 Family Molecules in Tumor Microenvironments

The importance of co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory molecules has been confirmed on a grand scale; with the identification of new B7 family molecules, possessing both immune activating and inhibiting functions, this family has exploded onto the scene of immune regulation. Nowhere, however, has the role of B7 family members been more apparent than in the fight against cancer. In this review, we will discuss recent data regarding the essential and complex role of B7 family members in regulating the immune response within tumor microenvironment.
Coordinate modulation of transfected HSV thymidine kinase and human globin genes

Abstract We have shown that high-frequency phenotypic switching of a transfected gene is associated with alterations in chromatin structure. To examine this phenomenon further, a plasmid containing HSV thymidine kinase and human α- and γ-globin genes was transfected into mouse L cells. All three genes were expressed through utilization of their individual promoters. One of these cell lines was capable of switching to its TK − phenotype at high frequencies (8%–10%). The revertants (TK − ) had no TK or globin transcripts, while the rerevertants (TK + ) expressed all three genes at their original levels. We conclude that genes introduced into cells by ligated cotransfection can be regulated coordinately and that the unit of this regulated expression can be at least 20 kb long.
Effectiveness of an Ultrasound Training Module for Internal Medicine Residents

Background Few internal medicine residency programs provide formal ultrasound training. This study sought to assess the feasibility of simulation based ultrasound training among first year internal medicine residents and measure their comfort at effectively using ultrasound to perform invasive procedures before and after this innovative model of ultrasound training.
Cryptic vascular malformations: controversies in terminology, diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment.

Cryptic vascular malformations have intrigued clini-cians since the first report of “calcifying epileptogenichemangiomas” by Penfield and Ward appeared in 1948(2). Despite many detailed radiologic and pathologic stud-ies on the subject, controversy still exists regarding theirunderlying pathophysiology, terminology, and treatment.Are cryptic vascular malformations a heterogeneousgroup of malformations that appear identical on magneticresonance (MR) images, or are they the manifestation of acommon pathophysiological process resulting in a spec-trum of pathologic findings? How do cryptic vascular mal-formations develop and enlarge over time? What is theproper treatment of symptomatic and asymptomatic le-sions: surgery, radiation therapy, or observation? In thisreport, I will address these controversies, relying on theliterature as well as on my own observations of thesefascinating lesions.
Risk factors for delay in age-appropriate vaccination.

Objective.To estimate the risk factors of children experiencing delay in age-appropriate vaccination using a nationally representative population of children, and to compare risk factors for vaccin...
Antigen-presenting cell–derived complement modulates graft-versus-host disease

Acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a serious complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) that results from donor allogeneic T cell attack on host tissues. Based on previous work implicating immune cell–derived C3a and C5a as regulators of T cell immunity, we examined the effects of locally produced C3a and C5a on murine T cell–mediated GvHD. We found that total body irradiation, a conditioning regimen required to permit engraftment of allo-HCT, caused upregulation and activation of alternative pathway complement components by recipient APCs. Allo-HCT with decay accelerating factor–null (Daf1–/–) host BM and Daf1–/– donor lymphocytes led to exacerbated GvHD outcome and resulted in splenic and organ-infiltrating T cell expansion. T cells deficient in C3a receptor (C3aR) and/or C5a receptor (C5aR) responded weakly in allogeneic hosts and exhibited limited ability to induce GvHD. Using a clinically relevant treatment strategy, we showed that pharmacological C5aR blockade reduced GvHD morbidity. Our data mechanistically link APC-derived complement to T cell–mediated GvHD and support complement inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for GvHD in humans.
Integrated spatial electron populations in molecules: Application to simple molecules

The electron projection function P(x, z) = ∫ ρ(x, y, z) dy is used to evaluate charge transfer and covalency in two series of molecules, LiX and CH3X (X = Li, BeH, BH2, CH3, NH2, OH, and F), with wavefunctions derived from STO-3G, 4-31G, and, in some cases, 6-31* ab initio calculations. The precision of the method and comparison with Mulliken populations analysis are described. Particular attention is given to CH3Li which by our criteria is wholly ionic.
Healing of the Medial Collateral Ligament of the Knee: A Morphological and Biochemical Assessment in Rabbits

Complete midsubstance injuries of medial collateral ligaments of matched New Zealand white rabbits were allowed to heal without repair or immobilization for various lengths of time. Morphological and biochemical parameters were used to evaluate healing as compared with normal unoperated and sham operated ligaments. Results showed incomplete healing at the longest term follow-up (14 weeks) with significant biochemical abnormalities. Although there was a trend toward normal, recovery from injury was much slower than previously reported.
How do We Learn to Trust? A Confirmatory Tetrad Analysis of the Sources of Generalized Trust:

In this paper we ask whether individuals decide that people are generally trustworthy or untrustworthy by extrapolating from their experiences in localized interactions or whether a more fixed predisposition drives assessments of trustworthiness. These two contrasting theoretical perspectives on generalized trust can be translated into empirically testable models and adjudicated using confirmatory tetrad analysis. This paper is among the first substantive applications of confirmatory tetrad analysis and illustrates an important advantage of this technique—the ability to distinguish between causal and reflective indicators of a latent variable. We find that individuals develop a generalized expectation of trustworthiness based on their experiences with different groups of people in localized settings. We demonstrate the robustness of our results across disparate samples and spatially dissimilar survey sites.
Intermetropolitan Migration and Locational Improvement for African American Males, 1970–1990

Abstract Throughout the 20th century African Americans have used migration as a strategy for improving their residential environments and increasing their access to social and economic opportunities. This strategy has taken many forms, including movement from the southern countryside to nearby towns and cities, interregional migration from the South to northern cities, and middle class flight from inner-cities. This paper considers the success of one type of mobility by northern African American males—migration between metropolitan areas. Using census data for 1970, 1980, and 1990 we examine changes in four locational characteristics of metropolitan areas (Black male unemployment, Black family structure, residential segregation, and violent crime) during two time periods (1975–80 and 1985–90). Four groups of Black males are identified: (1) those who remained in the same northern metropolitan area during the 5-year period, (2) those who moved to a different northern metropolitan area, (3) those who moved to a southern metropolitan area, and (4) those who moved to a western metropolitan area. Our findings show that, in general, mobile Black males fared significantly better than those who did not move. Furthermore, the benefits of intermetropolitan migration were not uniform across migrant groups. Overall, migrants to the South enjoyed the greatest locational improvements, followed by migrants to western metropolitan areas. The evidence for migrants within the North was more mixed, in some cases resembling more closely the experience of nonmigrants than the other two migrant groups.
Influence of chemical and physical properties of activated carbon powders on oxygen reduction and microbial fuel cell performance.

Commercially available activated carbon (AC) powders made from different precursor materials (coal, peat, coconut shell, hardwood, and phenolic resin) were electrochemically evaluated as oxygen reduction catalysts and tested as cathode catalysts in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). AC powders were characterized in terms of surface chemistry and porosity, and their kinetic activities were compared to carbon black and platinum catalysts in rotating disk electrode (RDE) tests. Cathodes using the coal-derived AC had the highest power densities in MFCs (1620 ± 10 mW m–2). Peat-based AC performed similarly in MFC tests (1610 ± 100 mW m–2) and had the best catalyst performance, with an onset potential of Eonset = 0.17 V, and n = 3.6 electrons used for oxygen reduction. Hardwood based AC had the highest number of acidic surface functional groups and the poorest performance in MFC and catalysis tests (630 ± 10 mW m–2, Eonset = −0.01 V, n = 2.1). There was an inverse relationship between onset potential and quantity of ...
Physics-Based High-Frequency Transformer Modeling by Finite Elements

This paper proposes a computational high-frequency transformer model. The model parameters are obtained by using coupled-circuit-finite-element (FE) nonlinear analysis. The frequency response of the transformer was obtained by coupling the transformer FE model and external electric circuits. This technique would allow the physical representation of the nonlinear magnetization behavior of the transformer as well as the strong frequency dependence of the transformer parameters. The self capacitance of each conductor and the mutual capacitances between the turns were calculated by an electrostatic FE analysis. The capacitance order was then reduced to a lower order by shifting the capacitances connected to internal nodes (windings) to the external ones (coil nodes). The resulting reduced capacitances, along with the inductances and resistances, were then used in the circuit domain of the coupled circuit-FE analysis. The transformer frequency response was then obtained from FE analysis. This response was then fitted with rational function approximation. This rational function approximation is then used to construct a frequency-dependent branch (FDB) which is connected in parallel with the nominal frequency transformer model. The FDB branch represents the transformer high-frequency behavior over a wide frequency range. The implementation is performed on a 125-kVA transformer. The developed model terminal behavior was tested under different operating conditions. This includes different switching frequencies and connecting cable length.
Racial Identification, Racial Discrimination, and Substance Use Vulnerability Among African American Young Adults

Two studies examined racial identity (RI) as a protective factor against substance use cognitions among African American young adults who either envisioned or experienced racial discrimination. In Study 1, participants envisioned a discrimination or nondiscrimination scenario, and then their willingness to use drugs and an indirect measure of substance use were assessed. Discrimination was associated with higher levels of use cognitions among participants with low levels of RI. In Study 2, participants were excluded or included in an online game (Cyberball) by White peers and then engaged in an RI-affirmation or control writing task. Participants attributed this exclusion to racial discrimination. Excluded participants who did not affirm their RI reported the highest levels of substance use cognitions, especially if they had engaged in higher levels of previous substance use. These findings highlight the importance of RI among Black young adults and the impact of discrimination on health behaviors.
Change in cutaneous perfusion following 10 weeks of aerobic training in Type 2 diabetes

A small, but positive, association between aerobic training status or prior maximal exercise and enhanced dorsal foot skin perfusion in active individuals with Type 2 diabetes has been shown. This study, therefore, was designed to examine whether an aerobic training intervention would positively affect cutaneous perfusion in sedentary Type 2 diabetic individuals as well. Nine sedentary participants with Type 2 diabetes (DS) and 10 obese nondiabetic controls (CS) were studied. Prior to the initiation of aerobic training, dorsal foot cutaneous perfusion was measured noninvasively by continuous laser Doppler assessment at baseline and during localized heating to 44 degrees C. These measurements were repeated 48-72 h following 10 weeks of moderate aerobic training performed 3 days per week. Interstitial nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured concurrently in the contralateral foot dorsum. Aerobic training did not significantly enhance baseline skin perfusion, nor were interstitial NO levels different under any condition. At baseline, groups differed only in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting serum glucose, HDL-cholesterol, and insulin resistance. At rest, cutaneous perfusion during local heating to 44 degrees C was significantly lower in DS before training, but did not differ significantly from CS afterward. Neither group, however, experienced significant increases in dorsal foot perfusion during local responsiveness to heating to 44 degrees C following 10 weeks of moderate aerobic training, despite slightly lower perfusion in DS before training; these findings were independent of interstitial NO levels. Thus, moderate aerobic training for only 10 weeks does not appear to reverse the impairment in cutaneous perfusion of the foot dorsum in response local heating in a Type 2 diabetic population.
The crystal structure of the olfactory marker protein at 2.3 A resolution.

Abstract Olfactory marker protein (OMP) is a highly expressed and phylogenetically conserved cytoplasmic protein of unknown function found almost exclusively in mature olfactory sensory neurons. Electrophysiological studies of olfactory epithelia in OMP knock-out mice show strongly retarded recovery following odorant stimulation leading to an impaired response to pulsed odor stimulation. Although these studies show that OMP is a modulator of the olfactory signal-transduction cascade, its biochemical role is not established. In order to facilitate further studies on the molecular function of OMP, its crystal structure has been determined at 2.3 A resolution using multiwavelength anomalous diffraction experiments on selenium-labeled protein. OMP is observed to form a modified β-clamshell structure with eight antiparallel β-strands. While OMP has no significant sequence homology to proteins of known structure, it has a similar fold to a domain found in a variety of existing structures, including in a large family of viral capsid proteins. The surface of OMP is mostly convex and lacking obvious small molecule binding sites, suggesting that it is more likely to be involved in modulating protein–protein interaction than in interacting with small molecule ligands. Three highly conserved regions have been identified as leading candidates for protein–protein interaction sites in OMP. One of these sites represents a loop known to mediate ligand interactions in the structurally homologous EphB2 receptor ligand-binding domain. This site is partially buried in the crystal structure but fully exposed in the NMR solution structure of OMP due to a change in the orientation of an α-helix that projects outward from the structurally invariant β-clamshell core. Gating of this conformational change by molecular interactions in the signal-transduction cascade could be used to control access to OMP's equivalent of the EphB2 ligand-interaction loop, thereby allowing OMP to function as a molecular switch.
A hypercube Ray-tracer

We describe a hypercube ray-tracing program for rendering computer graphics. For small models, which fit in the memory of a single processor, the ray-tracer uses a scattered decomposition of pixels to balance the load, and achieves a very high efficiency. The more interesting case of large models, which cannot be stored in a single processor, requires a decomposition of the model data as well as the pixels. We present algorithms for constructing a decomposition based upon information about the frequency with which different elements of the model are accessed. The resulting decomposition is approximately optimized to minimize communication and achieve load balance.
Validity of Ear Oximetry in Clinical Exercise Testing

Because of suspicion that the ear oximeter might measure the oxyhemoglobin saturation of arterial blood inaccurately during heavy exercise, we made concurrent ear oximetric and blood measurements on 14 consecutive patients with arterial catheters during clinical exercise tests. After correcting for carboxyhemoglobin, the estimated and measured values for the oxyhemoglobin saturation of the blood agreed well, as did resting ear and blood values; however, during heavy exercise, ear oximetric values were falsely elevated in two patients with interstitial pulmonary disease and were falsely depressed in five patients with cardiovascular limitation to exercise. In another patient, ear oximetric values declined during heavy exercise despite mild hyperoxia, suggesting hypoperfusion of the ear. Considering the clinical and physiologic importance of oxyhemoglobin saturation, ear oximetric values during heavy exercise should be cautiously interpreted.
Performance of Lactating Dairy Cows Fed Alfalfa Silage or Perennial Ryegrass Silage

Abstract The nutrient contents of perennial ryegrass ( Lolium perenne L.) and alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) are reasonably similar. Despite similarities, the lactation performance of dairy cows fed perennial ryegrass has not been compared with the lactation performance of dairy cows fed alfalfa. The present study was implemented to compare the performance of lactating cows fed alfalfa or perennial ryegrass silage. Alfalfa and perennial ryegrass were harvested at late bud and boot stages of maturity, respectively, and ensiled in separate 4.9- × 18.3-m concrete silos. The experimental silages were supplemented with a concentrate mix at 31.1% of dietary dry matter and fed to 18 multiparous Holstein cows in early lactation in a crossover experimental design with 28-d periods. Digestibility and rate of passage of experimental diets were also measured using rare earth markers. The perennial ryegrass contained 3.0 percentage units more neutral detergent fiber than did alfalfa, but in vitro digestibility of neutral detergent fiber was 8.8 percentage units higher for perennial ryegrass. In vitro digestibility of dry matter was also higher for perennial ryegrass. Cows fed alfalfa silage produced more milk (31.8 kg/d) than did cows fed perennial ryegrass silage (30.2 kg/d). Cows fed perennial ryegrass silage ate less feed (2.2 kg/d) than did cows fed alfalfa. Because dry matter intake was lower, diet digestibilities were higher, and rate of passage was slower, for cows consuming perennial ryegrass. Based on laboratory evaluations, perennial ryegrass silage has high nutritional quality, but performance of lactating cows indicated that the forage was suboptimal for supporting high milk production when compared with alfalfa. The perennial ryegrass silage was suboptimal because it did not stimulate high amounts of dry matter intake in lactating cows.
A novel Wilkinson power divider with predictable performance at K and Ka-band

Multi-port microstrip power dividers, used in array antenna applications, frequently utilize the Wilkinson design. The standard asymmetrical Wilkinson design has problems at frequencies beyond X-band, due to coupling between the output branches. A novel, modified design is presented. Its operation can be easily and accurately modeled. Its successful operation is demonstrated using measurements from a 2:1 Ka-band power divider, and a 14-way K-band power combiner. >
Use of progesterone and progestin analogs for inhibition of preterm birth and other uterine contractility disorders.

In this paper we focus on preterm birth as a uterine contractility disorder caused by hypercontractility of the myometrium. We describe changes in uterine function during term and preterm labor and delivery. We also examine the usefulness of measurement of uterine electromyographic (EMG) activity, noninvasively monitored from the abdominal surface of pregnant patients. The use of progesterone treatment for preterm birth is discussed and we conclude that present therapies with progesterone could be improved by changing the route of administration. Finally we show the results of recent studies that show that progesterone injections completely inhibit uterine EMG activity when given several days to hours before normal delivery. These studies illustrate how progesterone suppresses labor at term or preterm, probably through repression of genes which control excitability and conduction of electrical activity. However, direct profusion of soluble progesterone into the uterine cavity has little immediate inhibitory action and this may demonstrate that progesterone has no direct, nongenomic effects, at least in the rat model used. Further studies are required to determine the effects of progesterone on human uterine EMG activity and whether progesterone treatments will prevent preterm birth.
An experimental study of the effect of cortisone on the healing process and tensile strength of tendons.

1. The daily administration to dogs of ten milligrams of cortisone per kilogram of body weight inhibited excessive formation of peritendinous fibrous tissue. 2. Cortisone administered during the waiting period prior to the delayed suture made approximation of the tendon ends easier than in the control group. 3. The administration of cortisone to dogs in which tendons had been severed and resutured did not prevent end-to-end healing of the tendons. 4. Regeneration of the tendon sheath was delayed during the administration of cortisone. 5. The breaking point of a sutured tendon treated with cortisone was consistently less than in the control tendons. Although the tendons treated with cortisone were 40 per cent. weaker than the controls, healing in both was adequate for function. 6. Gelfilm and gelfoam used locally diminished the peritendinous adhesions during healign of sutured tendons in dogs. 7. Pyromen administered intravenously to dogs diminished the quantity of fibrous tissue around healing tendons.
Genetic disorders of Vitamin D biosynthesis and degradation

Vitamin D, an inactive secosteroid pro-hormone, is produced by the action of ultraviolet light on 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin. The active hormone, 1,25(OH)2D is produced by sequential 25-hydroxylation in the liver, principally by CYP2R1, and 1α-hydroxylation in the kidney by CYP27B1. Mutations in CYP27B1 cause 1α-hydroxylase deficiency, also known as vitamin D dependent rickets type I or hereditary pseudo-vitamin D deficient rickets; very rare mutations in CYP2R1 can cause 25-hydroxylase deficiency. Both deficiencies cause hypocalcemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism, severe rickets in infancy, and low serum concentrations of 1,25(OH)2D; both disorders respond to hormonal replacement therapy with calcitriol. The inactivation of vitamin D is principally initiated by its 23- and 24-hydroxylation by CYP24A1. Mutations in CYP24A1 can cause both severe neonatal hypercalcemia and a less severe adult hypercalcemic syndrome. Other pathways of vitamin D metabolism are under investigation, notably its 20-hydroxylation by the cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme, CYP11A1.
A Comparison of Maternal Attachment between American Adolescent and Adult Mothers of Preschoolers

American adolescent mothers have been viewed as less effective parents than adult mothers. The socioeconomic disadvantages of adolescent mothers should be taken into account. The objectives of this study were to compare maternal attachment between adolescent and adult mothers of preschoolers and to examine changes of adolescents' maternal attachment over time. A secondary analysis of data from a larger study of maternal employment and low birth weight infant outcomes were used. Data were collected through home visits using structured questionnaires at two different time points. Forty-three pairs of adolescent and adult mothers who could be matched on family structure, maternal race, and child's gestational status were compared on maternal attachment. The 7-item Attachment subscale of the Parenting Stress Index was used to measure maternal attachment. Results revealed that the adolescent mothers were not less attached to their preschoolers than the adults. This held true when important confounding factors were taken into account using multiple regression.
Alterations in cardiac autonomic receptors following 6-hydroxydopamine treatment in rats

To characterize the regional changes in β-adrenergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptors in rat hearts following 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) treatment, receptor binding assays using the specific ligands [3H]dihydroalprenolol (DHA) (β-adrenergic receptor) and [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate (QNB) (muscarinic cholinergic receptor) were performed in five regions of control and treated hearts. In addition, norepinephrine (NE) concentration and choline acetyltransferase activity in hearts were assayed to characterize the model. Rats were treated with 2 x 50 mg/kg i.v. injections of 6-OHDA . HBr at 24-h intervals and the hearts were removed 1, 2, and 3 weeks later. The specific [3H]DHA binding was significantly higher in the ventricles and intraventricular septum than in the right atria of control rat hearts, suggesting a regional variation for β-adrenergic receptors. Following 6-OHDA treatment, the specific [3H]DHA binding to right atria, left ventricles, and ventricular septae significantly increased compared to similar regions of control rat hearts. The Bmax value in left ventricles was significantly increased, by 32, 38, and 17%, respectively, at 1, 2, and 3 weeks without a change in the Kd, suggesting an increase in the density of β-adrenergic receptors. There was a marked (60-80%) reduction of NE levels in all regions of 6-OHDA-treated rat hearts. These results suggest a relationship between the reduction of endogenous NE and the development of the increased density of β-adrenergic receptors in the rat hearts following 6-OHDA treatment. Specific [3H]QNB binding was significantly higher in atria than in ventricles of control rat hearts. The binding to each region was unchanged at 1 and 2 weeks following 6-OHDA treatment, while it was significantly increased in most regions at 3 weeks. There was a 30% increase in the Bmax in right and left atria without a change in the Kd, suggesting a change in the receptor density. The choline acetyltransferase activity was not significantly altered in any region of 6-OHDA-treated rat hearts. The present study has demonstrated that destruction of noradrenergic nerve terminals in rats with 6-OHDA leads to an increase in the density of β-adrenergic receptors and a decrease in the NE concentration and that most of the cardiac muscarinic cholinergic receptors are not located on adrenergic neurons.
Utilizing dual energy CT to improve CT diagnosis of posterior fossa ischemia.

Summary Background and purpose Evaluation of posterior fossa ischemia on conventional CT is limited. The goal of our study was to determine if virtual monochromatic CT increases the diagnostic accuracy for the detection of posterior infarcts relative to standard CT while using diffusion-weighted MRI as a reference standard. Methods Thirty consecutive subjects who meet the following inclusion criteria were retrospectively enrolled: (1) symptoms of posterior fossa stroke (e.g. vertigo, fainting, and dizziness), (2) unenhanced dual-energy CT of the head performed upon admission to the emergency department, and (3) MRI of the brain within 7 days following the CT. Eight of the 30 subjects were determined to have MRI diffusion-weighted imaging findings consistent with acute posterior fossa ischemia. Monochromatic energy reconstructions at 60, 80, 100, 120 keV and the clinical CT were interpreted independently by two fellowship-trained neuroradiologists, who assessed the images for posterior fossa infarcts and for imaging quality. Results Reconstructions obtained at 80 keV provided the best artifact reduction and overall maximization of image quality and were statistically significantly better than standard head CT ( P P = 0.096). Conclusion Monoenergetic 80 or 100 keV reconstructions may improve the detection of posterior fossa ischemia compared to conventional CT. However, if clinical suspicion for posterior fossa ischemia warrants, a brain MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging should still be obtained, even in the presence of a negative dual energy CT of the brain.
A Waking 4 Hz Vertex Rhythm: 4 Cps Vertex Spindles Revisited

ABSTRACT.A waking 4 Hz vertex rhythm has been described previously and has been referred to as ‘4 cps vertex spindles’ due to its distinct configuration. The pattern consists of runs of rhythmic 4 Hz triangular waves, localized to Cz, occurring with a variable amplitude of 20–100 μv, with a waxing and waning characteristic. It is seen with the eyes open or closed, during photic stimulation, with hand movements and during the first 0.5 minutes of hyperventilation. The discharge occurs in runs of about 2 sec in duration; the EEGs are otherwise usually unremarkable. It occurs mainly in awake adolescents, referred most frequently with vasomotor instability. This report includes 5 examples recorded in a pediatric laboratory during a two-year period. The findings are similar in all respects to those previously reported. The waking 4 Hz vertex rhythm should be distinguished from other theta patterns seen in children and adolescents. The 4 Hz vertex rhythm may be an abnormality of uncertain significance. It is an...
International Human Rights Law on Violence Against Women and Children and Its Impact on Domestic Law and Action

There is a growing momentum for international and domestic legal reforms to confront violence against women and children, as indicated by the Convention to Eliminate All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and recent initiatives by the United Nations and others. This chapter examines the impact and potential of international human rights law as a component of efforts to prevent and redress violence against women and children.
Pulsed low-dose RANKL as a potential therapeutic for postmenopausal osteoporosis

A number of studies in model animal systems and in the clinic have established that RANKL promotes bone resorption. Paradoxically, we found that pulsing ovariectomized mice with low-dose RANKL suppressed bone resorption, decreased the levels of proinflammatory effector T cells and led to increased bone mass. This effect of RANKL is mediated through the induction of FoxP3+CD25+ regulatory CD8+ T cells (TcREG) by osteoclasts. Here, we show that pulses of low-dose RANKL are needed to induce TcREG, as continuous infusion of identical doses of RANKL by pump did not induce TcREG. We also show that low-dose RANKL can induce TcREG at 2, 3, 6, and 10 weeks after ovariectomy. Our results show that low-dose RANKL treatment in ovariectomized mice is optimal at once-per-month doses to maintain the bone mass. Finally, we found that treatment of ovariectomized mice with the Cathepsin K inhibitor odanacatib also blocked TcREG induction by low-dose RANKL. We interpret this result to indicate that antigens presented to CD8+ T cells by osteoclasts are derived from the bone protein matrix because Cathepsin K degrades collagen in the bone. Taken together, our studies provide a basis for using low-dose RANKL as a potential therapeutic for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Profiles of Stimulus-Frequency Otoacoustic Emissions from 0.5 to 20 kHz in Humans

The characteristics of human otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) have not been thoroughly examined above the standard audiometric frequency range (>8 kHz). This is despite the fact that deterioration of cochlear function often starts at the basal, high-frequency end of the cochlea before progressing apically. Here, stimulus-frequency OAEs (SFOAEs) were obtained from 0.5 to 20 kHz in 23 young, audiometrically normal female adults and three individuals with abnormal audiograms, using a low-to-moderate probe level of 36 dB forward pressure level (FPL). In audiometrically normal ears, SFOAEs were measurable at frequencies approaching the start of the steeply sloping high-frequency portion of the audiogram (∼12-15 kHz), though their amplitudes often declined substantially above ∼7 kHz, rarely exceeding 0 dB SPL above 8 kHz. This amplitude decline was typically abrupt and occurred at a frequency that was variable across subjects and not strongly related to the audiogram. In contrast, certain ears with elevated mid-frequency thresholds but regions of normal high-frequency sensitivity could possess surprisingly large SFOAEs (>10 dB SPL) above 7 kHz. When also measured, distortion-product OAEs (DPOAEs) usually remained stronger at higher stimulus frequencies and mirrored the audiogram more closely than SFOAEs. However, the high-frequency extent of SFOAE and DPOAE responses was similar when compared as a function of the response frequency, suggesting that middle ear transmission may be a common limiting factor at high frequencies. Nevertheless, cochlear factors are more likely responsible for complexities observed in high-frequency SFOAE spectra, such as abrupt amplitude changes and narrowly defined response peaks above 10 kHz, as well as the large responses in abnormal ears. These factors may include altered cochlear reflectivity due to subtle damage or the reduced spatial extent of the SFOAE generation region at the cochlear base. The use of higher probe levels is necessary to further evaluate the characteristics and potential utility of high-frequency SFOAE measurements.
Combining polyethylene and polypropylene: Enhanced performance with PE/iPP multiblock polymers.

Polyethylene (PE) and isotactic polypropylene ( i PP) constitute nearly two-thirds of the world’s plastic. Despite their similar hydrocarbon makeup, the polymers are immiscible with one another. Thus, common grades of PE and i PP do not adhere or blend, creating challenges for recycling these materials. We synthesized PE/ i PP multiblock copolymers using an isoselective alkene polymerization initiator. These polymers can weld common grades of commercial PE and i PP together, depending on the molecular weights and architecture of the block copolymers. Interfacial compatibilization of phase-separated PE and i PP with tetrablock copolymers enables morphological control, transforming brittle materials into mechanically tough blends.