cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
AFFORDABLE CARE ACT CHANGES IN THE MEDICARE PROGRAM: MORE OF THE SAME BUT BETTER

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“ACA”), as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, has made many changes in the Medicare program as part of comprehensive health reform for the US health care sector. This article reviews the changes that ACA is making and will make in the Medicare program in the years to come. Described in detail are the changes to improve the quality and efficiency of Medicare services as well as to improve program integrity and transparency. The article evaluates the current efforts of the Medicare program to reduce Medicare expenditures. The article concludes with an assessment of the potential effectiveness of these reforms to bend the proverbial cost curve and make the Medicare program sustainable over the long term.
Magnetour: Surfing planetary systems on electromagnetic and multi-body gravity fields

Abstract A comprehensive tour of the complex outer planet systems is a central goal in space science. However, orbiting multiple moons of the same planet would be extremely prohibitive using traditional propulsion and power technologies. In this paper, a new mission concept, named Magnetour, is presented to facilitate the exploration of outer planet systems and address both power and propulsion challenges. This approach would enable a single spacecraft to orbit and travel between multiple moons of an outer planet, without significant propellant or onboard power source. To achieve this free-lunch ‘Grand Tour’, Magnetour exploits the unexplored combination of magnetic and multi-body gravitational fields of planetary systems, with a unique focus on using a bare electrodynamic tether for power and propulsion. Preliminary results indicate that the Magnetour concept is sound and is potentially highly promising at Jupiter.
Race, Gender, and Class Stereotypes: New Perspectives on Ideology and Inequality

Las investigaciones mas recientes sobre la disigualdad de clase, raza y genero en Estados Unidos se centran en el paradigma de la interseccionalidad. Provenientes de los estudios feministas y de los trabajos academicos sobre el tema racial-etnico, este nuevo paradigma analiza los nexos entre raza, clase y genero en su funcion estructurante de la desigualdad, asi como las ideologias que la sustentan. El presente articulo revisa las principales aportaciones de los estudios sobre raza, clase y genero en Estados Unidos y discute las cambiantes condiciones historicas en ese pais que han llegado a requerir un analisis de este tipo. Posteriormente, se adentra en las implicaciones de este modelo para entender la “ideologia de la neutralidad” y la “ideologia de la dependencia” que actualmente subyacen en las creencias de los grupos dominantes acerca de la raza, la clase y el genero. El trabajo concluye con sugerencias acerca de las nuevas orientaciones que podrian tomar los estudios sobre raza, clase y genero y discutiendo las implicaciones de este paradigma para los analisis de los estereotipos de raza y genero.
Intra-operative transanal near infrared imaging of colorectal anastomotic perfusion: a feasibility study.

Aim Anastomotic dehiscence is a devastating complication. Inadequate blood supply is felt to be the prevailing cause. This study describes the use of near infrared imaging to evaluate transanally anastomotic tissue perfusion following low anterior resection. Method Twenty patients undergoing low anterior resection for benign and malignant disease were studied. After completing the anastomosis, indocyanine green (ICG) was injected via a peripheral intravenous catheter. An endoscopic near infrared imaging system (Pinpoint, Novadaq, Canada) was then used transanally to visualize mucosal perfusion of the colon, rectum and the anastomotic staple line. Results All patients underwent a technically successful ICG angiogram. The angiogram was abnormal in four patients. Two of these had a protective loop ileostomy and showed no sign of anastomotic breakdown. The other two patients were found on CT scan to have a peri-anastomotic collection consistent with anastomotic leakage. Both were managed conservatively with resolution. Conclusion This study confirms that transanal ICG angiography is feasible and provides imaging of mucosal and anastomotic blood flow. The technique warrants further study in a larger group of patients to assess its ability to identify defects in tissue perfusion that may lead to anastomotic breakdown.
Genocide as a matter of degree1

This article employs Max Weber's ideal-type method to classify genocides based on their degree of mass killing, unilateralism, and ethnic liability. The identification of the elements of genocide draws from a general theory of genocide (Campbell 2009, 2010) and from theories of social control employing Donald Black's (1995, 1998) theoretical approach, known as pure sociology. Because these theories identify the social features associated with each element of genocide, they can explain the form genocides take.
Studies on hydrophilic polysulfone ultrafiltration membranes

Ultrafiltration membranes were produced from carboxylated polysulfone polymers having different degrees of substitution (DS). Solute separation was found to increase with increasing DS. The techniques of single solute permeation and permoporometry were used to determine the pore size of these membranes. Permoporometry measurements indicated that pore size decreased with increasing DS. Solute separation was predicted by inserting the distribution of pore sizes obtained from permoporometry into a restricted transport model. Similar results were obtained from a nonlinear least squares fit of the restricted transport model to the experimental data. Both techniques produced similar sieving curves. It was concluded that pore size decreases were not due to the increasing repulsion of solute molecules by hydrophilic polysulfone but to changes in polymer solution properties as the DS increased. On a produit des membranes d'ultra-filtration a partir de polymeres de polysulfone carboxylises ayant differents degres de substitution (DS). On a trouve que la separation de solute augmentait avec l'augmentation du DS. Des techniques d'impregnation et de permoporometrie avec des solutes simples ont ete utilises pour determiner la taille des pores de ces membranes. Les mesures de permoporometrie indiquent que la taille des particules diminuent avec l'augmentation du DS. On a predit la separation du solute en integrant la distribution de taille des pores obtenue par la permoporometrie dans un modele de transport restreint. Des resultats similaires ont ete obtenus par calage par moindres carres non lineaires du modele de transport restreint aux donnees experimentales. Les deux techniques produisent des courbes de tamisage comparables. On a conclu que la diminution de la taille des pores n'est pas due a une augmentation de la repulsion des molecules de solute par le polysulphone hydrophilique mais a des modifications des proprietes des solutions de polymeres lorsque le DS augmente.
Relationship between brain levels of cyclic nucleotides and γ-aminobutyric acid during ethanol withdrawal in rats

Cyclic nucleotide and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels were measured in four brain areas of control rats and rats undergoing ethanol withdrawal. Cyclic adenosine 3',5' monophosphate (cyclic AMP) was increased in the cerebral cortex and pons-medulla oblongata; cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic GMP) was increased in the cerebellum and cerebral cortex; and GABA was decreased in the cerebellum, subcortex and pons-medulla oblongata. Individual values in withdrawn animals were correlated and subjected to a factor analysis. One of the common factors identified by this analysis was important for all but one of the levels which changed during ethanol withdrawal. Significant correlations of levels correlated with this factor included a negative correlation between cyclic GMP and GABA levels in the cerebellum, a positive correlation between cyclic GMP levels in the cerebellum and cyclic AMP levels in the pons-medulla oblongata and a positive correlation between cyclic AMP levels in the pons-medulla oblongata and cerebral cortex. These results indicate that multiple brain areas and neurotransmitters are involved in ethanol withdrawal.
Responses of the sea catfish Ariopsis felis to chemical defenses from the sea hare Aplysia californica

Ink secretion of sea hares (Aplysia spp.), which is a mixture of co-released ink from the ink gland and opaline from the opaline gland, protects sea hares from predatory invertebrates through diverse mechanisms. These include both aversive or deterrent compounds and also high concentrations of amino acids that stimulate the predators' chemical senses and divert the attack through phagomimicry or sensory disruption. The aim of the present study was to examine if sea hares also defend themselves from predatory vertebrates by interacting with their chemical senses. We used sea catfish, Ariopsis felis, in behavioral and electrophysiological experiments. Behavioral tests on sea catfish show that ink is aversive: when ink is added to palatable food items (noodles with food flavoring), the noodles are no longer eaten, and when ink is added to noodles without food flavoring, the noodles are avoided more than unflavored noodles. Behavioral tests also show that opaline and the amino acid components of either opaline or ink are appetitive. Electrophysiological recordings of chemosensory neuronal activity in the olfactory epithelium and maxillary barbels show that the olfactory and gustatory systems of sea catfish are highly stimulated by ink and opaline, and that the amino acid components of ink and opaline significantly contribute to these responses. Compounds generated by the activity of escapin, an L-amino acid oxidase in the secretion, are moderately stimulatory to both olfactory and gustatory systems. Taken together, our results support the idea that sea hares are chemically defended from predatory sea catfish largely through unpalatable chemical deterrents in ink, but possibly also through amino acids stimulating olfactory and gustatory systems and thus functioning through phagomimicry or sensory disruption.
Oral Reading as a Content Area Teaching Method.

(1983). Oral Reading as a Content Area Teaching Method. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 57, No. 2, pp. 56-58.
Structure and flame length of fully-modulated, turbulent diffusion flames

The turbulent flame structure and flame length of fully-modulated diffusion flames was examined over a range of pulsing frequencies, injection flow rates, and duty-cycles. An injection system employing an electronically-controlled solenoid value was used to discharge puffs of unhealed natural gas and ethylene fuel into still air at one atmosphere pressure. Video imaging of the luminosity from the sooting regions of the flame revealed two distinct types of flame structure. For small injected volumes and short injection times, compact, puff-like structures with a short flame length were generated. More elongated “cigar-shaped” structures, with a longer flame length closer to that of steady-state flames, resulted from longer injection times and larger injected volumes. An injection parameter which characterizes the transition from puff-like to cigar-shaped flame behavior is presented. For puffs, an increase in duty-cycle generally led to an increase in flame length. This increase was less for cigar-shaped fl...
An analysis of the facilitation of avoidance acquisition produced by d-amphetamine and scopolamine.

Albino rats from an inbred strain (F344s) and a random bred Sprague-Dawley derivative (ZMs) were administered intraperitoneal injections of either saline, 1.0 mg/kg d -amphetamine, 0.6 mg/kg scopolamine, or a combination of both drugs (0.5 mg/kg d -amphetamine plus 0.3 mg/kg scopolamine) 30 min prior to daily sessions of 25 trials on a brightness discrimination, active-avoidance task in completely automated Y-mazes. For the ZMs, all drug treatments significantly facilitated acquisition of the avoidance response. This facilitation was due to increase in active responses (incorrect avoidances, intertrial crosses, intertrial motor activity) which provided a behavioral baseline which was compatible with learning the requirements of the task. The major effect of the drugs on the F344s, who normally avoid well, was a disruption of behavior in the Combination group, indicating the importance of assessing the behavioral baseline which exists prior to drug administration. Discontinuation of drug treatment resulted in disruption of avoidance performance which was most pronounced in the ZM rats. In addition, drug termination produced disruption of discrimination performance, providing further evidence that the behavioral decrement was due to dissociation (stimulus change) between the drug and nondrug states.
Water economy of the honeybee: A stoichiometric accounting

Under simulated moderate-desert conditions (30°C, < 5% RH), isolated honeybee workers lose more water through evaporation (18.95 mg g−1 h−1) than they produce metabolically (2.39 mg g−1 h−1). At high ambient temperatures they ferry water to the hive for thermoregulatory purposes, and, in so doing, they airlift 52 mg of water, or 65% of their body mass. The extremely high metabolic demand for flight when water-loaded (92.54 ml CO2 g−1 h−1) produces almost sufficient metabolic water (74.36 mg g−1 h−1) to balance the simultaneous evaporative water loss (79.72 mg g−1 h−1). Metabolic rate and evaporative water loss are generally positively related but remarkably independent under certain conditions of activity and high ambient temperature.
Removal of the bottleneck in local correlation methods

Abstract We present preliminary results from a new hybrid pseudospectral local correlation method in which we combine the pseudospectral approximation to two-electron integral evaluation with local truncation of the virtual space to accelerate singles and double excitation configuration interaction (SDCI). The combination of the two leads even in small molecules to overall speed-ups of factors of 3–5 and reduces the main disk space requirement by factors of 9–20 while retaining at least 98% of the correlation energy of the exact SDCI calculations. These preliminary results bode well for the advantages of further development of pseudospectral local correlation methods.
Explanatory Unification and the Early Synthesis

The object of this paper is to reply to Morrison's ([2000]) claim that while 'structural unity' was achieved at the level of the mathematical models of population genetics in the early synthesis, there was explanatory disunity. I argue to the contrary, that the early synthesis effected by the founders of theoretical population genetics was unifying and explanatory both. Defending this requires a reconsideration of Morrison's notion of explanation. In Morrison's view, all and only answers to 'why' questions which include the 'cause or mechanism' for some phenomenon count as explanatory. In my view, mathematical demonstrations that answer 'how possibly' and 'why necessarily' questions may also count as explanatory. The authors of the synthesis explained how evolution was possible on a Mendelian system of inheritance, answered skepticism about the sufficiency of selection, and thus explained why and how a Darwinian research program was warranted. While today we take many of these claims as obvious, they required argument, and part of the explanatory work of the formal sciences is providing such arguments. Surely, Fisher and Wright had competing views as to the optimal means of generating adaptation. Nevertheless, they had common opponents and a common unifying and explanatory goal that their mathematical demonstrations served.
Bispecific antibody modification of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors for biosensing

Recent results show that bispecific antibodies can be used to tailor the selectivity of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors for biosensing purposes. The nicotinic acetylcholine receptors reconstituted in bilayer lipid membranes are inactivated when two bispecific antibodies, attached to the same receptor, bind to a single antigen molecule. Experiments with patch clamp recording equipment reveal that antigen levels of 10(-8) M completely and irreversibly inactivate small numbers of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This approach may lead to the construction of biosensors capable of detecting individual antibody-antigen (Ab-Ag) binding events.
Pharmacological nature of adrenergic innervation in rat aorta

Abstract 1. 1. No evidence for specific catecholamine fluorescence was found in any tissue layer of rat thoracic aorta, even after combined treatment with iproniazid and L -DOPA. 2. 2. In contrast to the atria and abdominal aorta, reserpine (4 mg. per kg.) or 6-hydroxydopamine (50 mg. per kg.) did not affect the catecholamine content of the thoracic aorta. 3. 3. Cocaine (10 −5 M ) or desipramine (10 −6 M ) exerted a similar differential inhibition on [ 3 H]noradrenaline uptake by aortic tissues. 4. 4. After pretreatment with cocaine (10 −5 M ) or 6-hydroxydopamine (50 mg. per kg.) the dose-response curve for noradrenaline was not altered in the rat thoracic aorta. Moreover, this preparation was not highly reactive to nicotine (10 −4 M ), tyramine (10 −4 M ), or transmural stimulation. 5. These results suggest poor adrenergic innervation of rat thoracic aorta.
Differential effects of dimethyl sulfoxide and sodium butyrate on alpha-fetoprotein, albumin, and transferrin production by rat hepatomas in culture.

Radioimmunoassay was used to determine α-fetoprotein (AFP), albumin, and transferrin production (ng/105 cells/24 h) by two cell lines (7777 and 8994) derived from chemically induced rat hepatomas. α-Fetoprotein production was high (2000 to 4400) in 7777, but was very low (0.2 to 0.4) in 8994. Albumin production varied from 0.4–0.8 (7777) to 14–26 (8994). Both lines produced substantial amounts of transferrin (180 to 240 by 7777 and 29 to 42 by 8994). Addition of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO, 1 to 4%) or sodium butyrate (BA, 0.5 to 2.0 mM) to the medium inhibited growth in both lines, but 8994 was more sensitive to these agents than 7777. Dimethyl sulfoxide treatment (2 to 4%) resulted in a dose-related decrease (<10% of control at 4% DMSO) in AFP, albumin, and transferrin production by 7777, but in 8994, DMSO (1 to 2%) resulted in an increase, (up to sixfold) in albumin and transferrin production, without affecting AFP production. By contrast, BA (2 to 4 mM) stimulated the production of all three proteins in both lines, most notably that of albumin (up to sixfold) by 7777 and that of AFP (up to 20-fold) by 8994. It is concluded that both DMSO and BA can enhance the expression of differentiated functions of the hepatoma cell, and that DMSO at the same time can suppress the expression of an oncofetal function. However, neither DMSO nor BA is selective in its effects on specific genes (i.e., normal, adult vs. oncofetal genes), and it appears that their effects may be the result of a more general phenomenon, the expression of which may be related to the stage of differentiation of the cell.
Raman spectroscopic and gas transport study of a pentablock ionomer complexed with metal ions and its relationship to physical properties

A series of poly(b-(t-butyl styrene)-b-(ethylene-co-propylene)-b-(styrene-co-styrene sulfonate)-b-(ethylene-co-propylene)-b-(t-butyl styrene)) ionomers were complexed with a series of metal ions. Raman sulfonate group symmetric ν s(SO3 −) and asymmetric ν as(SO3 −) stretching modes at 1031 and 1127 cm−1 were proportional to ion-exchange capacity. Mono and divalent counter-ions of Li+, Na+, K+, and Ca2+ affected the stretching modes of ν(SO3 −) due to ion size and charge. The gas permeability P and diffusivity D of O2, CO2, N2, and CH4 decreased with increasing complexation strength between sulfonate group and metal ion. Solubility S was a maximum for ionomers complexed with K+ and CO2, but small changes were observed for other metal ions. Overall, these results suggest that ionomers coordinated with different metal ions influence network physical properties, chain mobility, and gas transport.
Complete relaxation and conformational exchange matrix (CORCEMA) analysis of NOESY spectra of interacting systems; two-dimensional transferred NOESY.

A very general procedure entitled complete relaxation and conformational exchange matrix (CORCEMA) analysis has been developed to analyze the 2D-NOESY spectra of interacting systems undergoing multistate conformational exchange. This is an extension of earlier work from this laboratory on the methodological treatment of multistate conformational exchange [Krishna et al., Biopolymers 19, 2003 (1980)] and the theory of transferred NOESY for finite exchange off-rates [Lee and Krishna, J. Magn. Reson. 98, 36 (1992)]. The current theory is based on generalized rate matrices for relaxation and conformational exchange. The CORCEMA algorithm explicitly incorporates intermolecular dipolar cross relaxation between the molecules when they are complexed. It permits an analysis of NOESY intensities for the intra- as well as intermolecular contacts between the interacting molecules under a variety of binding conditions. Its application is illustrated on two examples of transferred NOESY simulations: (1) a two-state system involving a ligand and an enzyme forming a ligand-enzyme complex, and (2) a three-state system in which the ligand-enzyme complex can undergo a conformational transition from an "open state" to a "closed state," and can include conformational changes in both the complexed ligand and the complexed enzyme, such as hinge-bending motions. Simplifying expressions for generalized matrix analyses are derived for three limiting cases of the three-state system. This three-state example is illustrated using a hypothetical model of the hinge-bending motion in a thermolysin-inhibitor complex. It is shown that: (1) The neglect of cross relaxation between the interacting species in their complexed forms can lead to misleading conclusions on the "bound" conformation of the ligand. (2) If protein-mediated spin diffusion is dominant, caution is needed in analyses based on initial slopes alone due to one's inability to identify the exact range of the initial growth curve under poor signal/noise situations. (3) The neglect of conformational changes upon complexation, e.g., hinge-bending motions of the ligand-enzyme complex, can lead to erroneous results on the nature of "bound" conformations of the ligand. In this case, attempts to analyze the transferred NOESY data with a two-state model will result in a "virtual" conformation for the bound ligand. (4) When the hinge-bending rate is slower than the cross relaxation and enzyme off-rates, the bound conformation of a ligand deduced from the transferred NOESY experiment is more likely to represent nonspecific or weak binding in an open state of the enzyme.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
The politics of renewable energy policies: The case of feed-in tariffs in Ontario, Canada

Designing and implementing a renewable energy policy involves political decisions and actors. Yet most research on renewable energy policies comparatively evaluates instruments from an economic or technical perspective. This paper presents a case study of Ontario’s feed-in tariff policies between 1997 and 2012 to analyze how the political process affects renewable energy policy design and implementation. Ontario’s policy, although initially successful, has met with increasing resistance over time. The case reveals key political tensions that arise during implementation. First, high-level support for a policy does not necessarily translate into widespread public support, particularly for local deployment. Second, the government often struggles under asymmetric information during price setting, which may weaken the policy’s legitimacy with the public due to higher costs. Third, there is an unacknowledged tension that governments must navigate between policy stability, to spur investment, and adaptive policymaking, to improve policy design. Fourth, when multiple jurisdictions pursue the same policies simultaneously, international political conflict over jobs and innovation may occur. These implementation tensions result from political choices during policy design and present underappreciated challenges to transforming the electricity system. Governments need to critically recognize the political dimension of renewable energy policies to secure sustained political support.
Photomodification of heteroleptic titanium-based, complex metal alkoxides.

A heteroleptic titanium metal alkoxide (OPy){sub 2}Ti(4MP){sub 2}, where OPy = NC{sub 5}H{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}O)-2 and 4MP = OC{sub 6}H{sub 4}(SH)-4, was investigated as a candidate precursor for the solution-based (sol-gel) synthesis of titanium oxide via the photoactivation of intermolecular linking reactions (e.g., hydrolysis/condensation). The evolution of the electronic structure of the solution-based molecule arising from conventional (dark) chemical reaction kinetics was compared with that of samples exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation at wavelengths of {lambda} = 337.1 nm and 405 nm using UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. Photoinduced changes in the spectra were examined as a function of both the incident wavelength of exposure and the total fluence. Experimental results confirm the UV-induced modification of spectral absorption features, attributed to ligand-localized and charge transfer transitions accompanied by structural changes associated with hydrolysis and condensation. The photoenhancement of reaction kinetics in these processes was confirmed by the increased modification of the absorption features in the solution spectra, which saturated more rapidly under UV-illumination than under dark conditions. Similar saturation behaviors were observed for both the 337.1 nm and the 405 nm incident wavelengths with the same total deposited energy density indicating a relative insensitivity of the photoinduced response to excitation energy formore » the wavelengths and fluences studied.« less
Coaxing the LDL Receptor Family into the Fold

Low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family members control diverse developmental and physiological pathways. In this issue of Cell, both Culi and Mann and Hsieh et al. report on Boca/MESD, a highly conserved chaperone required for transport of LDLR family proteins to the cell surface. Together with recent insights into the atomic structure of the LDL receptor, they shed new light on the synthesis and trafficking of this important class of multifunctional receptors.
Subendothelial accumulation of unesterified cholesterol An early event in atherosclerotic lesion development

Abstract This preliminary report describes the simplest and possibly earliest lipid-containing lesions induced in aortas of rabbits fed a cholesterol-containing diet. Subendothelial accumulation of unesterified cholesterol, detected with filipin dye, appears to precede morphologic changes in endothelium and accumulation of subendothelial lipid-containing “foam” cells. The origin of subendothelial unesterified cholesterol remains to be determined.
Modeling ammonia–ammonium aqueous chemistries in the Solar System’s icy bodies

Abstract The properties of ammonia and ammonium compounds in cold, subsurface brines are important for understanding the behavior of outer planet icy moons. The FREZCHEM model of aqueous chemistry was primarily designed for cold temperatures and high pressures, but does not contain ammonia and ammonium compounds. We added ammonia and ammonium compounds to FREZCHEM, and explored the role of these chemistries on Enceladus and Titan, mindful of their astrobiological implications. For the new FREZCHEM version, Pitzer parameters, volumetric parameters, and equilibrium constants for the Na–K–NH4–Mg–Ca–Fe(II)–Fe(III)–Al–H–Cl–ClO4–Br–SO4–NO3–OH–HCO3–CO3–CO2–O2–CH4–NH3–Si–H2O system were developed for ammonia and ammonium compounds that cover the temperature range of 173–298 K and the pressure range of 1–1000 bars. Ammonia solubility was extended to 173 K, where NH3·2H2O and NH3·H2O precipitate, which is the lowest temperature in existing FREZCHEM versions. A subsurface “ocean” on Enceladus was simulated at 253 K with gas pressures, 1–10 bars, and with Na + , Cl - , HCO 3 - , CO 2 ( g ) , CH 4 ( g ) , and NH3(aq) that led to precipitation of ice, NaHCO3, and gas hydrates (CO2·6H2O and CH4·6H2O). The pH on Enceladus ( Fig. 10 ) ranged from 5.74 to 6.76, and water activity, aw, ranged from 0.80 to 0.82, which are relatively favorable for life. A subsurface “ocean” on Titan was simulated with NH 4 + , Cl - , SO 4 2 - , CH 4 ( g ) , and NH3(aq) over the temperature range of 173–273 K that led to precipitation of (NH4)2SO4, ice, CH4·6H2O, and NH4Cl. The CH4 clathrate should float above the brine and is buoyant with respect to H2O ice, so has the potential to be a source of CH4 to replenish what has been photochemically destroyed in Titan’s atmosphere over time. The pH in the Titan simulation ( Fig. 11 ) ranged from 11.24 to 18.03 (latter may not be accurate), and aw ranged from 0.28 to 0.72, which are relatively unfavorable for life as we know it. The Titan simulations, with total pressures of 10, 250, and 1000 bars, led to similar depositions, except for ice that failed to form under 1000 bars of pressure. In the past, there have been arguments for why Titan, given an early environment similar to Earth, could be a highly favorable body in our Solar System for life. But if Titan oceans are strongly alkaline with high pH whereas Enceladus’ oceans have moderate pH, as simulated, the latter would seem a better environment for life as we know it. But bear in mind, caution must be exercised in quantifying the ammonia/ammonium cases because of the complexities and limitations of these chemistries in the FREZCHEM model.
Surgical management of perineal masses in patients with anorectal malformations.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to review the outcome of surgical management of various types of perineal masses encountered in patients with anorectal malformations (ARM). Methods Retrospective review from 2 large pediatric anorectal referral centers. Results Twenty-two patients with a perineal mass were identified in more than 2000 patients treated for an ARM over a 15-year period. The 22 patients (4 men) represented all levels of severity of ARMs. The lesions were of 3 types: lipomas (n = 10), vascular anomalies (n = 4), and hamartomas/choristomas (n = 8). The lipomas were carefully removed from between the muscle fibers during the posterior sagittal anorectoplasty. The vascular anomalies (3 of 4 were hemangiomas) underwent magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively, but none were found to invade deeply and all were excised at the time of the posterior sagittal anorectoplasty. The hamartomas/choristomas all occurred in women, and 50% arose as a pedunculated mass from the vulva. The lesions contained tissues such as glia, osteoid, nephrogenic rests, and endocervical-type mucosa. One was initially misinterpreted as a teratoma, prompting a wider excision. This and all subsequent patients have been correctly diagnosed pathologically as having either hamartomas or choristomas, which were not widely excised. Follow-up ranges from 5 months to 12 years. Six of the 10 lipoma patients are continent. One vascular anomaly was re-excised and there was minor wound separation in another. None of the hamartoma/choristoma lesions recurred. Conclusion The presence of unusual perineal masses can add to the complexity of ARMs; however, most of these lesions can be carefully excised with preservation of the muscle complex and ultimate continence. Hamartomatous lesions can be mistaken for teratomas but do not require aggressive excision with clear margins.
EPR studies of phase transitions in cadmium calcium acetate hexahydrate as a function of different paramagnetic impurity-ion concentrations

The phase transition in cadmium calcium acetate hexahydrate (CCDAH) has been studied in detail with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) as a function of two different paramagnetic ion concentrations, namely, ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}$ and ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{2+}$ ions. The change in transition temperature (122--143 K) with ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}$ ion concentrations is explained in terms of mean-field theory and a soft vibrational mode of the -${\mathrm{C}\mathrm{a}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{C}\mathrm{d}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{x}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{Ca}$- chain along the $c$ axis of the crystal. While the same theory can also explain our observed transition temperature (118--128 K) as a function of the ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{2+}$ ion concentration in this crystal, it does not explain why the limiting value of the transition temperature (i.e., 145 K) of ${\mathrm{CaCd}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{x}{(\mathrm{C}\mathrm{H}}_{3}{\mathrm{C}\mathrm{O}\mathrm{O})}_{4}{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\cdot}}6\mathrm{H}}_{2}\mathrm{O}$ as $x$ tends to zero, is strikingly different from the limiting value of $(\ensuremath{\sim}128.4\mathrm{K})$ of ${\mathrm{CaCd}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Mn}}_{x}{(\mathrm{C}\mathrm{H}}_{3}{\mathrm{C}\mathrm{O}\mathrm{O})}_{4}{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\cdot}}6\mathrm{H}}_{2}\mathrm{O}$ as $x$ tends to zero. The same theory also successfully explains the absence of any phase transition in isomorphous ${\mathrm{C}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{C}\mathrm{u}(\mathrm{C}\mathrm{H}}_{3}{\mathrm{C}\mathrm{O}\mathrm{O})}_{4}{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\cdot}}6\mathrm{H}}_{2}\mathrm{O}.$ The value of $\ensuremath{-}{\mathrm{dT}}_{c}/dx$ is significantly higher with ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{2+}$ than with ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}$ in CCDAH.
Relationships with Teachers and Bonds with School: Social Emotional Adjustment Correlates for Children with and without Disabilities.

In this investigation, fifth- and sixth-grade children (N= 289) completed a measure to assess aspects of their relationships with teachers and bonds with schools. Children and teachers also completed measures related to children's social and emotional adjustment. Analyses of responses to these measures indicated that students with disabilities had greater dissatisfaction with their relationships with teachers, poorer bonds with school, and perceived higher school danger than did students without disabilities. Comparisons involving students who were receiving services for emotional disturbance (ED), learning disabilities (LD), mild mental retardation (MMR), other health impairments (OHI), and no disabilities indicated that students with ED and students with MMR had poorer affiliation with teachers and greater dissatisfaction with teachers than students without disabilities. Students with ED also had poorer bonds with school than did students without disabilities. Students with LD and students with MMR had significantly higher ratings of perceived school danger than did students without disabilities. Results of correlational analyses indicated that student-teacher relationship and school bonding variables were associated with social and emotional adjustment variables for students with and without disabilities. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Viral Infection and Cancer: The NF-κB/Snail/RKIP Loop Regulates Target Cell Sensitivity to Apoptosis by Cytotoxic Lymphocytes

The anti-viral/tumor cytotoxic T cells exert their killing mechanisms by the granzyme-perforin and death ligand-induced necrosis and apoptosis. These death ligands include TNF-alpha (tumor-necrosis factor-alpha), FasL (Fas ligand), and TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand). However, many target cells resist killing by the cytotoxic T cells. Tis review discusses potential novel underlying mechanisms of resistance and implicate an NF-kappaB (nuclear factor kappa beta)-Snail (SNAI-1)-RKIP (Raf-1 kinase inhibitor protein) circuitry in resistant targets. TRAIL-mediated killing of a tumor cell line is used as an example to illustrate the circuitry. Tumor cells resistant to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis can be sensitized by NF-kappaB inhibitors. Inhibition of NF-kappaB results in the induction of RKIP. RKIP overexpression sensitizes the cells to TRAIL. RKIP is induced following inhibition of the RKIP transcription repressor, Snail, downstream of NF-kappaB. Snail siRNA reverses resistance to TRAIL. Because RKIP negatively regulates NF-kappaB, we propose that the resistant cell phenotype could be maintained through Snail-mediated RKIP suppression which supports the constitutive NF-kappaB activation. This review introduces a new paradigm, namely, that the cytotoxic T-cell response to viral infection and/or cancer may be compromised by the target cells expressing the resistant NF-kappaB-Snail-RKIP phenotype. Alternative therapeutic interventions, such as various inhibitors, NF-kappaB inhibitors, and siRNAs, are presented.
Antiviral effect of cyclopentenone prostaglandins on vesicular stomatitis virus replication

Prostaglandins are potentially useful antiviral agents, however their mechanism of action is unclear. Recent evidence suggests that RNA transcription of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is inhibited by prostaglandins (Bader and Ankel, J. Gen. Virol. 71, 2823-2832, 1990). Prostaglandins are known to have multiple effects on cells which may or may not be related to their antiviral action. We examined the effects of prostaglandins on cells and on VSV RNA polymerase in vitro to seek the mechanism of antiviral action. Actinomycin D inhibited cellular RNA synthesis but failed to block the antiviral activity of prostaglandins on VSV. Thus induction of host cell RNA transcription is not involved in the antiviral action. Neither modulation of the cellular glutathione level by prostaglandins nor formation of prostaglandin-glutathione conjugates was required for the antiviral action. The relative inhibition of VSV RNA polymerase in vitro by prostaglandins with different structures correlated to inhibition of VSV replication in infected cells. This result indicates that the same step in VSV replication is inhibited by prostaglandins both in the in vitro RNA polymerase assay and in the infected cell.
Asymptotic behavior of generalized quasiisometries at a point

We consider Q-homeomorphisms with respect to the p-modulus, obtain an estimate for the measure of the image of a ball under these mappings, and study the asymptotic behavior at the origin.
The prostaglandin D2 receptor CRTH2 is important for allergic skin inflammation after epicutaneous antigen challenge

Background Cutaneous prostaglandin (PG) D 2 levels increase after scratching. Chemoattractant receptor–homologous molecule expressed on receptor on T H 2 cells (CRTH2) mediates chemotaxis to PGD 2 and is expressed on T H 2 cells and eosinophils, which infiltrate skin lesions in patients with atopic dermatitis. Objective We sought to examine the role of CRTH2 in a murine model of atopic dermatitis. Methods CRTH2 −/− mice and wild-type control animals were epicutaneously sensitized by means of repeated application of ovalbumin (OVA) to tape-stripped skin for 7 weeks and then challenged by means of OVA application to tape-stripped previously unsensitized skin for 1 week. Skin histology was assessed by means of hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. Cytokine mRNA expression was examined by means of quantitative RT-PCR. Levels of PGD 2 , antibody, and cytokines were measured by means of ELISA. Results PGD 2 levels significantly increased in skin 24 hours after tape stripping, although not in skin subjected to repeated sensitization with OVA. Allergic skin inflammation developed normally at sites of chronic epicutaneous sensitization with OVA in CRTH2 −/− mice but was severely impaired in previously unsensitized skin challenged with OVA, as evidenced by significantly decreased skin infiltration with eosinophils and CD4 + cells and impaired T H 2 cytokine mRNA expression. Impaired skin inflammation at sites of acute OVA challenge in CRTH2 −/− mice was not due to an impaired systemic response to epicutaneous sensitization because OVA-specific IgG1 and IgE antibody levels and OVA-driven splenocyte secretion of cytokines in these mice were comparable with those seen in wild-type control animals. Conclusions CRTH2 promotes allergic skin inflammation in response to cutaneous exposure to antigen in previously sensitized mice.
Conceptual Debates and Empirical Evidence About the Peer Review Process for Scholarly Journals

Until recently, nursing scholars have seldom questioned the underlying premises of peer review, nor have they engaged in the conceptual debates about the peer review process. In this article, literature from a wide range of nursing and nonnursing journals was examined to provide an overview of (a) the conceptual debates and (b) the empirical evidence about the peer review process in scholarly journals. A multiplicity of questions for future research are proposed.
Turbulent Heating in Computer Simulations of the Modified Plasma Two-Stream Instability

Computer simulations of the fluidlike modified two-stream instability, driven by relative electron-ion drifts across a magnetic field, show strong anomalous plasma heating. The electron and ion heating rates are comparable and result in ion thermal speeds which approach the relative drift speed within a few ion plasma periods.
DEPOLARIZING EFFECTS OF THE IONOPHORES X‐537A AND A23187 AND THEIR RELEVANCE TO SECRETION

The ionophore X-537A depolarized frog skeletal muscle fibres about 10 mV in 10 min and a further 30 mV or so over the next 50 minutes. With A23187, depolarization was relatively feeble and delayed in onset but was hastened when calcium was removed from the bathing medium. The results support conjecture that some functional responses to these ionophores are attributable, in part, to depolarization.
Assessment of fetal lung volumes and liver herniation with magnetic resonance imaging in congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

Abstract Objective: We evaluated the use of fetal magnetic resonance imaging in predicting outcomes after ultrasonographic diagnosis of left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Study Design: Forty-one pregnant women carrying fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia underwent 43 magnetic resonance imaging scans. Lung volumes were calculated by summing the areas on 6-mm axial sections. The presence or absence of liver herniation was noted. A liver/diaphragm ratio was obtained by using the distances from the superior aspect of the liver and the diaphragmatic remnant to the apex of the chest. Results: Mean gestational age was 26 weeks and overall survival was 59%. Neither right, left, nor total lung volume measurements were predictive of survival. Liver herniation into the left side of the chest was predictive of outcome at P P =.03. Conclusion: Fetal magnetic resonance imaging permits calculation of lung volumes, but these volumes are not predictive of outcome. However, both the presence of liver herniation and the volume of liver within the chest, as reflected by the liver/diaphragm ratio, help predict outcome in left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000;183:1067-9.)
Six-minute walk test and health status assessment in sarcoidosis.

Background: The 6-min walk test has proved useful in assessing impairment and prognosis in various lung diseases. Methods: A prospective study of 142 sarcoidosis patients seen during a 6-week period at one tertiary sarcoidosis clinic. All patients completed spirometry, 6-min walk testing, St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), fatigue assessment scale, and dyspnea score. Parameters assessed included the 6-min walk distance (6MWD) and the initial and lowest oxygen saturations during the test. Results: One hundred three of 142 patients had extrapulmonary manifestations, 10 patients had left ventricular dysfunction, and 14 patients had documented pulmonary hypertension. Seventy-three patients (51%) completed a 6MWD t = − 7.498, p t = 4.415, p t = 2.55, p Conclusions: 6MWD was reduced in the majority of sarcoidosis patients. Several factors were associated with a reduced 6MWD, including FVC, oxygen saturation with exercise, and self-reported respiratory health. Both 6MWD and quality of life measures are useful in assessing the functional status of sarcoidosis patients.
Evolution of butyrylcholinesterase in higher primates: An immunochemical study

Abstract 1. Serum butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE; EC 3.1.1.8) of man and the higher primates was tested enzymatically and immunochemically, with the aid of monoclonal antibodies (McAb) developed against the enzyme isolated from human blood. 2. Enzyme activities showed great differences across species and among individuals, but all samples tested were dibucaine-sensitive. 3. One McAb showed similar affinities for BuChE of each species, but another showed marked differences in affinity, preferring species in the order: man > chimpanzee = pygmy chimpanzee > gorilla ⪢ orangutan > gibbon. 4. We conclude that at least one epitope of BuChE underwent progressive modification during the later stages of primate evolution.
Impact of material and microstructure on thermal stresses and reliability of through-silicon via (TSV) structures

Thermal stresses and microstructures of two TSV structures with different fabrication conditions have been investigated using the precision wafer curvature and synchrotron x-ray microdiffraction methods, providing the first direct observation of local plasticity in the TSVs. Results from this study show that the electroplating chemistry directly affects the Cu microstructure, which in turn controls stress relaxation and build-up of the residual stress during thermal cycling. The implications on via extrusion and device keep-out zone (KOZ) are discussed.
Age-related susceptibility to the insulin-depleting action of 4-diphenylmethylpiperidine in young rats

Abstract Studies were undertaken to investigate age-related changes in the ability of 4-diphenylmethylpiperidine (4-DPMP) to reduce levels of pancreatic insulin in young rats. Oral doses of 4-DPMP (5.0 or 10.0 mg/kg) were given once daily for two days to 9-, 15- and 21- day-old rats. Twenty-four hours after the last dose, pancreatic insulin content, non-fasting serum glucose, and the amount of unchanged 4-DPMP present in the whole body were estimated. 4-DPMP treatment produced a decline in pancreatic insulin and the extent of this action was greater in younger animals. The observed changes in pancreatic insulin were not reflected in altered serum glucose levels, showing this parameter is a relatively poor indicator of pancreatic insulin loss. Younger animals had a larger fraction of the total dose of 4-DPMP in the body at the end of the experimental period when compared to the fraction retained by older rats. The age-related susceptibility of young rats to the diabetogenic action of 4-DPMP may be related to the differences in the rate of elimination of the chemical at different ages.
The Primary Structure of Rat Ribosomal Protein S23

The amino acid sequence of the rat 40S ribosomal subunit protein S23 was deduced from the sequence of nucleotides in a recombinant cDNA. Ribosomal protein S23 has 142 amino acids, the NH2-terminal methionine is removed after translation of the mRNA, and a molecular weight of 15,666. Hybridization of the cDNA to digests of nuclear DNA suggests that there are 6 to 13 copies of the S23 gene. The mRNA for the protein is about 650 nucleotides in length. Rat S23 is identical to a human ribosomal protein and is also related to Saccharomyces cerevisiae S28, to Tetrahymena thermophila S12, and to the prokaryotic S12 family of ribosomal proteins.