cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polynucleotides. XIII. Stoichiometric and Thermodynamic Studies of Polynucleotide Helices with Non-Complementary Residues†‡

Stoichiometry and thermodynamic properties of polyadenylate–polyuridylate helices containing varying proportions of near-randomly distributed non-complementary uridine residues were charactrized from an analysis of their mixing curves and melting profiles measured at 259 nm and at appropriate longer wavelength isochromic points. The noncomplementary residues in this homopolymer–copolymer system (in which the homopolymer has the capacity to readjust with respect to the residues with which it is in opposition) show absolute preference for an extrahelical conformation even when situated in … AAUAA … sequences and must occur therefore as single loops. As the frequency of extrahelical residues in creases, the electrostatic energy of these complexes becomes greater, and is particularly severe for the three-stranded helices. Thus, an adenyl-ate-uridylate copolymer containing 35.2 mole percent uridine residues does not form a three-stranded complex with polyuridylate even in 0.7M Na+at O°C. The imperfections introduced into the helix lattice by extrahelical residues decrease the cooperativity of thermal denaturation as well as Tm. However, for the helices with extrahelical residues in low frequency (∼1 per helix turn) only small increases in concentration of charge-neutralizing ions are required to bring Tm to the level of their perfect analogs. Two-stranded helices with a higher density of extra helical residues (∼5 per helix turn) show [Na+] dependence of Tm characteristic of perfect three-stranded helices. These findings together with the absence of an effect of these imperfections on the hypochromicity per base-pair suggest only minimal disruption of helix continuity or distortion of stacking interactions that normally in volve the base pairs or triplets.
Synthesis of anionic rhenium carbonyl hydrides by the ring opening of rhenium carbonyl heterocycles

Abstract The heterocyclic rhenium–bismuth complex Re3(CO)12(μ-H)2(μ-BiPh2), 1 was obtained in 62% yield from the reaction of [Bu4N][Re3(CO)12(μ-H)2] with BiPh2Cl at room temperature. Compound 1 was converted to the [Bu4N] salt of the dihydrido monoanion [{HRe(CO)4}2(μ-BiPh2)], 2 by reaction with [Bu4N][OH]. The anion of 2 contains a BiPh2 ligand bridging two HRe(CO)4 groups. The corresponding [Bu4N] salt of the SbPh2-bridged monoanion [{HRe(CO)4}2(μ-SbPh2)], 4 was obtained from the reaction of Re2(CO)8(μ-SbPh2)(μ-H), 3 with NaBH4 followed by precipitation with [Bu4N]Br. The anion of 4 was converted back to 3 by treatment with H[BF4], but no characterizable product was obtained from the treatment of 2 with H[BF4]. The crystal and molecular structures of compounds 1, 2, and 4 were established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses.
A family-based association study of congenital left-sided heart malformations and 5,10 methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.

BACKGROUND Aortic valve stenosis (AVS), coarctation of the aorta (CoA), and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) are obstructive malformations of the left ventricular outflow tract that account for a significant proportion of infant mortality. Two previous small case-control studies suggested methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms may be associated with this group of malformations. METHODS We used a family-based association design with inclusion criteria of nonsyndromic diagnosis of AVS, CoA, and HLHS, powered to detect an odds ratio for the heterozygote of <1.5. A total of 207 affected offspring-parent trios were genotyped by restriction fragment length polymorphisms at the two common polymorphic loci C677T and A1298C. RESULTS Error rate estimation based on replicate samples was 0.76%. Mendelian inconsistency at either polymorphism was noted in 10 trios, for a calculated undetected error rate of 1.95%. A total of 197 trios were analyzed using the transmission disequilibrium test. Significant association was not found between both the C677T or A1298C polymorphisms and presence of a heart defect, whether analyzed as a group, or by sex, ethnicity, or specific diagnosis. A log-linear analysis did not find increased relative risk based on the maternal genotype. CONCLUSIONS We were unable to replicate previous association studies and concluded that neither the affected nor the maternal MTHFR genotype, by itself, is a major risk factor for congenital left ventricular outflow tract malformations. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Curcumin and derivatives.

The title compound, 4-[7-(4-acetoxy-3-methoxy­phenyl)-5-hydroxy-3-oxohepta-1,4,6-trienyl]-2-methoxy­phenyl acetate [or bis­(acetoxy)curcumin, C25H24O8], is shown unequivocally to exist in the keto–enol form, with only intramolecular hydrogen bonding. A redetermination of the structure of curcumin itself confirms the results of a previous report that it also exists in the keto–enol form.
Acute intussusception in infancy

Abstract 1. 1. Acute intussusception is the most common cause of obstruction in infancy. 2. 2. History of acute intussusception is classical: Sudden acute pain in a healthy infant; early symptoms of shock with its pallor, rapid pulse, sweaty skin, vomiting; abdominal mass; the finding of blood in the rectal examination is practically a criterion of this condition. Diagnosis can be further substantiated by x -rays in which the barium enema shows blockage along the bowel tract in the case of intussusception. 3. 3. Early operation is advised since, if done early, the operation will consist merely of a manual disinvagination and carries a small risk. Operation done in cases after thirty-six to forty-eight hours are prone to require some form of resection with its attendant high mortality. These forms of resection are listed. 4. 4. Palpation of an abdominal mass in acute intussusception is a late sign and should be considered in prognosis more than in the diagnosis.
The effects of methamphetamine on fine motor control in rhesus monkeys.

Abstract Six rhesus monkeys were trained to extend their arms through a tube to press a lever between 25 and 40 g of force for 3 or 5 sec. Responding was maintained by the delivery of 1.5 cc of water. Stimulus lights indicated whether the exerted force was below 25 g, between 25 and 40 g (i.e., correct) or above 40 g. Sessions were terminated after 50 water deliveries or 30 min had elapsed. Performance was well-maintained in all monkeys. Allowing the animals access to water prior to the session had no effect on performance. Discontinuing sessions for two weeks disrupted some aspects of performance but responding improved within 5 sessions. Single injections of methamphetamine (0.06–0.5 ,mg/kg) were given IM 20 min prior to the session. The highest dose of 0.5 mg/kg totally eliminated responding. Lower doses decreased rate of responding somewhat and increased phasic activity (i.e., tremors) in a dose-dependent manner. The procedure seems ideally suited for investigating the effects of psychotropic drugs on fine motor control in rhesus monkeys.
Estimating odds ratios adjusting for misclassification in Alzheimer's disease risk factor assessment.

Epidemiological studies of Alzheimer's disease and dementia are often two-phase studies including a screening phase and a clinical assessment phase. It is common to interview a relative of the subject at each of these phases to obtain information about the subject's exposure to risk factors. This can result in a misclassification error when assessing risk factors, as the two responses of the relative often differ. This is especially a problem for risk factors involving life-style and family history which cannot be confirmed using the subject's medical records. A naive analysis using data from each phase separately would give two different estimates of the odds ratio; both estimates could be biased. In this paper, we extend the estimation methods adjusting for misclassification developed by Liu and Liang to data collected through two-phase sampling. We first use a latent class analysis and the EM algorithm to estimate the misclassification parameters. We then derive the maximum pseudo-likelihood estimators, conditional on the misclassification parameters, to estimate the odds ratios accounting for the complex sampling study design. We propose to use the jack-knife estimator for estimation of the variances. We apply the above method to data collected in the Indianapolis-Ibadan Dementia Study to estimate the odds ratio for smoking adjusting for misclassification error.
Immunization-induced inflammatory infiltration of the central nervous system in transgenic mice expressing a microbial antigen in astrocytes.

Abstract Transgenic mice expressing a defined microbial antigen from central nervous system (CNS) cell type-specific promoters can be utilized to investigate the consequences of induction of peripheral immune responses to foreign antigens produced by different CNS cell types. Immunization of mice expressing β-galactosidase (β-gal) in astrocytes with this protein resulted in antigen-dependent infiltration of the CNS by mononuclear cells, principally CD4 + T lymphocytes and monocyte/macrophages. The perivascular and intraparenchymal infiltrates, which were located predominantly in the hippocampal formation and cerebellum, the areas of highest β-gal expression, were associated with astrocytosis, microgliosis, and a generalized increase in blood-brain barrier permeability. The resemblance of these pathological changes to aspects of human immune inflammatory CNS disorders e.g. multiple sclerosis, suggests that an initiating step in the process by which such complex diseases are produced could be the induction of peripheral immune responses to antigens expressed in astrocytes.
Ge/GaAs heterojunction IMPATT's

The fabrication and first successful operation of Ge/GaAs heterojunction IMPATT's are described. Theoretical analyses were employed to establish the optimum materials specifications for maximum microwave performance. The analyses revealed that the heterojunction IMPATT's should be inherently more producible than the conventional Read-type GaAs structures because their efficiencies should be less dependent on critical control of the avalanche region width. On the other hand, the maximum conversion efficiencies of both structures should be similar. Since the potential for detrimental effects due to solid-state diffusion of species across the Ge/GaAs interface increases strongly with temperature, development of special low-temperature fabrication processes was required for the heterojunction devices. The Ge epitaxial avalanche layers were deposited on the GaAs portions of the structures by vapor phase epitaxy at 325°C using an open-tube iodide-transport process. Ion implantation and partial low-temperature annealing at 275°C were employed to produce p-n junctions in the Ge layers. Heterojunction IMPATT's were produced that yielded powers of 410 mW at 6.3-percent efficiency and 320 mW at 4.4-percent efficiency at 10.7 and 15.2 GHz, respectively. The conversion efficiencies are limited, in part, by residual implantation damage that could not be removed at the maximum permissible annealing temperatures.
Pulsed plasma enhanced and hot filament chemical vapor deposition of fluorocarbon films

Abstract Fluorocarbon films from pulsed plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PPECVD) and hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) show a greater range in composition and structure compared to films from conventional CVD processes. Films were deposited using hexafluoropropylene oxide (HFPO), 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134) and difluoromethane (HFC-32) as the feed gases. Film characterization was performed through high resolution solid-state 19 F and 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. Increasing pulse off-time during HFPO PPECVD resulted in films with more linear CF2 character and reduced the amount of cross-linking/branching, attributed to CF2 chain propagation dominating during the off-time. HFC PPECVD films contained significantly less fluorine and more of carbon unsaturation, attributed to plasma hydrogen scavenging of fluorine to form hydrogen fluoride. Switching from PPECVD to HFCVD with HFPO as the feed gas resulted in films resembling bulk poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE), as a result of clean thermal breakdown of HFPO to form polymerizing CF2 radicals. Isothermal annealing of PPECVD films revealed two different thermal decomposition pathways: one which involved CF3 loss in more cross-linked films, and one which involved oligomer desorption/chain unzipping in films with a substantial linear CF2 chain component.
Interprocess communication facilities for network operating systems

The connection of several computers into a network poses new problems for the operating system designer. In order to appreciate these problems fully, it is useful to look briefly at networks from the point of view of their goals, their possible configurations, and their level of integration.
Online but off-topic: establishing common ground in small learning groups

There is not yet a great deal of research in formal online learning environments focusing on the "off task" conversations that small groups engage in. This study explores how participants establish common ground in distance learning environments. The e-mail, discussion forum, and chat transcripts of ten small online groups were investigated using computer-mediated discourse analysis. Participants established common ground by focusing mostly on logistics, followed by social and then technical moves. The types of functional moves exchanged revealed that groups were actively engaged with each other to establish common ground, balancing individual focus with a group focus.
Use of Diffusion to Determine Soil Cation-Exchange Capacity by Ammonium Saturation

Abstract Soil cation-exchange capacity (CEC) is often determined by NH4 saturation, using a 1 M solution of NH4C2H3O2 at pH 7. A study was conducted to ascertain whether this determination can be performed by employing a simple diffusion technique previously developed for direct inorganic-N analysis of soils. Values obtained for 10 diverse Illinois surface soils following overnight NH4 saturation were correlated very highly with CEC data collected for the same samples on the basis of NH4 analyses by steam distillation (r = 0.999, P < 0.001) or colorimetry (r = 0.999, P < 0.001), and also with data obtained by summing atomic absorption measurements of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and potassium (K) displaced during NH4 saturation (r = 0.811, P < 0.01). As a much more rapid and convenient alternative to existing methods for preparation of NH4-saturated soil, a simple saturation technique was developed whereby 0.500 g of soil was leached under vacuum with 15 mL of 1 M NH4C2H3O2 (pH 7) in a 10-mL disposable s...
Physical interpretation and quantization of periodic time-dependent Hartree-Fock solutions.

We outline several sets of physical conditions which lead to periodic or multiply periodic solutions of the time-dependent Hartree-Fock equations. In every instance the Fourier components can be identified with transition matrix elements of the density fluctuation operator between collective eigenstates of the system. A simple variational derivation of the Bohr-Sommerfeld quantization condition for such solutions is described.
Vortex development over flat plate riblets in a transitioning boundary layer

Riblets are placed in a compressible, flat plate, zero-pressure-gradient boundary layer developing from a laminar to turbulent state. A three-component laser-Doppler anemometer is used to obtain velocity profiles within and above the riblets at several streamwise locations.
The Russian Middle Class as Policy Objective

The subject of the Russian middle class has engaged the attention of scholars and policymakers inside and outside Russia. Debate over how the middle class should be defined and measured has been contentious. This article examines recent Russian social science literature on trends in the development of the middle class since the end of communism, considers problems in defining and measuring the size of the middle class, describes the role assigned to it by the Russian leadership, and looks at factors inhibiting the growth of the middle class.
Surface-enhanced Raman probing of biomolecules using Ag-coated porous glass-ceramic substrates

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) of an amino acid, phenylalanine and an antifreeze glycoprotein have been probed using Ag-coated porous glass-ceramic substrates. The pore size of porous glass-ceramic was in the 50-nm to submicrometer range. The test molecules in aqueous solution were directly adsorbed onto porous glass-ceramic and dried out. The samples were then subsequently coated with an Ag overlayer film of 50 A in mass thickness. Surface-enhanced Raman spectra of phenylalanine and antifreeze glycoprotein were obtained, and they showed Raman signatures with certain changes compared to those of regular Raman spectra from aqueous solutions and solid samples. The results suggest that the phenylalanine and antifreeze glycoprotein molecules were chemisorbed onto substrate and interacted with Ag film for enhanced Raman scattering. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ionic conductivity in Cu-substituted Ag2CdI4

Abstract The compound Ag 2 CdI 4 becomes superionic near 388 K as the crystal lattice changes from a tetragonal to a hexagonal structure. Near 445 K, Ag 2 CdI 4 is replaced by an equilibrium mixture of α-AgI and CdI 2 . At each of these phase transitions, ionic conductivity increases by an order of magnitude or more. The substitution of Cu + for Ag + in Ag 2 CdI 4 is accompanied by a slight increase in the room temperature conductivity, the result of either increased crystalline defects or an increased Cu + -free volume in the tetragonal lattice. In addition, Cu substitution appears to stabilize the high-temperature, hexagonal structure to temperatures well in excess of 445 K.
Mixing of 2+ states in 20Ne

Abstract The broad 8.8 MeV 2 + state of 20 Ne is seen to be populated with appreciable strength [(2 J + 1) S = 0.21] in the reaction 19 F(τ, d) 20 Ne, even though this strength would be zero in the simplest model. A model previously used to explain the mixing of 0 + states is found to work surprisingly well for the 2 + states.
Potassium/Magnesium Ratio Effects on Aluminum Tolerance and Mineral Composition of Wheat Forage

Knowledge of cation amelioration of Al toxicity may improve our understanding of differential Al-tolerance mechanisms among winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) forage genotypes, and the causes of tetany in grazing cattle. A solution culture experiment was conducted using two winter wheat cultivars (Atlas 66 and Scout 66), two Al levels (0 qnd 50 μM), and three K/Mg ratios (0.1, 0.7 and 2.3, on a mol c L −1 basis). Root dry weights were decreased significantly by Al for Al-sensitive Scout 66, but not for Al-tolerant atlas 66 (...)
Neutrophil depletion with hydroxyurea ameliorates lung reperfusion injury

Abstract Forty-eight hours of pulmonary artery occlusion followed by four hours of reperfusion results in a syndrome of permeability edema with alveolar infiltration of neutrophils and intravascular neutrophil aggregation. We hypothesized that lung reperfusion injury was mediated in part by neutrophils and attempted to decrease the injury by neutrophil depletion. We placed inflatable balloon occluders around the left pulmonary artery of 13 dogs. Eight treated dogs received 200 mg/kg hydroxyurea daily until the leukocyte count had decreased to 20% of baseline. Dogs then underwent 48 hours of left pulmonary artery occlusion followed by four hours of reperfusion. Five control (untreated) dogs underwent an identical protocol but did not receive hydroxyurea. Both groups of dogs became febrile immediately following reperfusion and had a mild initial decrease in pulmonary artery pressure. Morphologic ranking of the lungs demonstrated hemorrhage in both lungs in untreated dogs, which was significantly greater than in the lungs of the treated dogs ( P
Using a Two-Player Coin Game Paradox in the Classroom

This classroom paradox is an effective tool to motivate students to accept as fact only those things that are backed by reasonable evidence. A two-player game consists of repeated tosses of a loaded coin, until one of the player's three outcome sequences—for example, Tails, Heads, Tails (THT)—occurs. Player 2 chooses his or her sequence after hearing Player 1's choice. The question is, if we know that the probability of Heads is 70%, does Player 1 or Player 2 have the advantage? To their detriment, nearly all students will want to go first and select HHH, which is not even the best choice for the universally disadvantaged Player 1. This example can be presented at several different levels, tuned to the background of the class.
Impact of Energy Loss Index and Valvuloarterial Impedance in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Using Three-Dimensional Echocardiography

Background Energy loss index (ELI) and valvuloarterial impedance (Zva) have been evaluated with a lack of three-dimensional (3D) information regarding the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) and sino-tubular junction (STJ). Our aim of this study is to compare the difference of ELI and Zva between two-dimensional (2D) and 3D echocardiography. Methods In 74 patients with moderate-to-severe aortic stenosis, the effective orifice area index (EOAI: EOA/body surface area) was calculated by continuity equation based on both 2D transthoracic echocardiography (2DTTE) and 3D transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE). The areas of the LVOT and the STJ were calculated with the assumption of π × (dimension/2)2 by 2DTTE and were measured directly by 3DTEE. Severe AS was defined as EOAI or ELI <0.6 cm2/m2 or Zva ≥ 4.5 mmHg/mL per m2. Results Both the LVOT and STJ were elliptical, and LVOT was more elliptical than STJ. The ELI by 3DTEE (0.58 cm2/m2 [median]) was larger than the other 3 values: EOAI on 2DTTE = 0.41, P < 0.01; EOAI on 3DTEE = 0.49, P < 0.01; and ELI on 2DTTE = 0.49, P < 0.01. Furthermore, Zva by 2DTTE, 4.7 mmHg/mL per m2, was larger than that by 3DTEE (3.8, P < 0.01). Conclusions 2DTTE underestimated EOAI and ELI relative to 3DTEE and overestimated Zva relative to 3DTEE.
Plasticity, limit analysis and structural design

It is important for any discipline from time to time to take stock of its past achievements and to help put the current progress and future directions into perspective. In the case of research and education in plasticity and its impact on structural engineering, these assessments will help shape the directions of our future focus on research opportunities for the next decade. This is described in the present paper.
Design principles for laser interference refractometers

Abstract The basic design principles for interference air refractometers with lasers as light sources are reviewed and a detailed discussion of the possible error sources is given. Quantitative analysis indicates that the design of the air cell and its configuration in the measuring arm is the focus for improving measurement uncertainty. An uncertainty of d n n = 10 −8 can be achieved by means of sophisticated design with relatively simple techniques and less critical requirements: a free running HeNe laser as the light source; 1 64 fringe subdivision; and the sum of the calibration uncertainty of the air cell length(s) plus relative instability of this length(s) should be less than 2 × 10−5.
Modeling spatiotemporal variability of intra-urban air pollutants in Detroit: A pragmatic approach

Abstract This study combined a three-year time series of air pollutant measurements from the Michigan Air Sampling Network (MASN) with spatially detailed datasets for two two-week periods in September 2008 and June 2009. The objective was to produce monthly pollutant concentration models for the city of Detroit, Michigan, USA from January 2008 through December 2010, in support of a related epidemiological study examining adverse birth outcomes in Detroit. Two gaseous analytes, NO 2 (nitrogen dioxide) and total BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethyl-benzene, and xylene), as well as two particulate matter size fractions, PM 2.5 and PM 10 , were investigated. The September 2008 and June 2009 datasets were modeled using ordinary kriging to produce high spatial density concentration maps with 300 m by 300 m resolution across the city. A weighted average was applied to these maps to generate a series of monthly spatial models for each pollutant. Temporal variability was then incorporated by adjusting each monthly spatial model using an average bulk shift derived from MASN time series measurements for the corresponding month over the three-year study period. The resulting models incorporate temporal trends while preserving neighborhood scale spatial variability. Seasonal variation was evident in NO 2 models, but not readily discernable in BTEX or PM models across the three year study period. The greatest spatial and temporal variability was observed in the BTEX distributions, which are inferred to be strongly influenced by local sources. The methodology employed assumes that the interpolated monthly models adequately capture spatial variability of the air pollutants across the study area, the spatial distribution of pollutant concentrations remained consistent while their magnitude fluctuated from month to month, and that the available time series measurements reflect temporal trends across the city of Detroit throughout the three-year study period.
Avoiding the cost burden of newborn screening for the poor and uninsured: Mississippi's model.

The Mississippi State Department of Health Genetic Screening Program began in 1982 with hospitals joining the program on a volunteer basis. In 1985 legislation, which mandated Newborn Screening, provided the Mississippi Department of Health with the responsibility to promulgate rules and regulations establishing laboratory standards, to assure that each newborn was screened and to bill the hospital for each test. The Mississippi State Department of Health charges $12.75 per each newborn tested. This cost includes PKU, T4 (TSH if T4 is abnormal), and Hemoglobinopathy screening, as well as an administrative and follow-up charge. In order to compare the costs of existing systems, which coordinate services related to newborn screening, a survey has been done. The confirmatory test for hemoglobinopathy screening will be performed in the Mississippi State Department of Health Laboratory beginning July 1, 1990. This enables the Mississippi Genetic Screening Program to charge for patients who qualify for Medicaid.
Exchange interaction and Fano resonances in diatomic molecular systems

We propose a mechanism to use scanning tunneling microscopy for direct measurements of the two-electron singlet-triplet exchange splitting $J$ in diatomic molecular systems, using the coupling between the molecule and the substrate electrons. The different pathways for electrons lead to interference effects and generate kinks in the differential conductance at the energies for the singlet and triplet states. These features are related to the Fano resonance due to the branched electron wave functions. The ratio between the tunneling amplitudes through the two atoms can be modulated by spatial movements of the tip along the surface.
Avian Use of Wetlands in Reclaimed Minelands in Southwestern Indiana

We studied the use of mineland wetlands by birds and the relationship between avian communities and wetland characteristics. Data were collected from 20 wetlands in Pike County, Indiana, and included wetland size, depth, water conductivity and salinity, aquatic macroinvertebrate abundance, vegetation, and bird use. Principal component analysis showed that physical variables could be explained by two principal component scores and that wetlands could be grouped on the basis of size and conductivity. Principal component analysis could not reduce vegetation variables to fewer principal component scores, meaning that wetland vegetation characteristics were independent of one another and did not show any trend. Most wetlands had low invertebrate density, and wetlands with higher invertebrate density had low invertebrate diversity. Wetlands with similar habitat characteristics (physical, vegetative, and invertebrate) did not necessarily show similarities in bird assemblages. Bird similarity index values ranged from 0 to 59%, implying that each wetland has its own bird community. Stepwise multiple regression analysis (α= 0.05) relating bird use and habitat characteristics showed that bird species richness increased with the species richness of submergent vegetation and was correlated negatively with the species richness of emergent vegetation. There was no significant relationship between bird species richness or bird species diversity and wetland size. The number of species within different avian guilds correlated with different habitat characteristics. The species richness of submergent plants was a factor that correlated positively with the number of species of several guilds (dabblers, wading birds, and plunge divers). Wetland age was not a factor that determined bird use.
Effects of oral mexiletine on left and right ventricular function

Malignant ventricular arrhythmias often occur in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Antiarrhythmic drugs may further impair LV function in these patients. Mexiletine, a lidocaine congener, is an effective antiarrhythmic drug, but when administered orally, its effect on LV and right ventricular (RV) function is unknown. To determine the hemodynamic effects of mexiletine, LV and RV ejection fraction (EF) were measured by radionuclide ventriculography in 10 patients with LV dysfunction (LVEF less than 50%). Symptom-limited exercise tests were also performed. Patients were studied before and during therapy with oral mexiletine. There was no significant change in LVEF (28% vs 27%) or RVEF (46% vs 41%). Also, heart rate at rest, exercise duration and peak heart rate during exercise were unchanged. Thus, in patients with LV dysfunction, oral mexiletine does not significantly affect LV or RV function.
Utilization of Indole Analogs by Carrot and Tobacco Cell Tryptophan Synthase in Vivo and in Vitro

Twenty-three indole analogs were used to inhibit the growth of carrot and tobacco suspension cultures. The addition of tryptophan or indole partially reversed the inhibition of both cell lines only for 4-fluoroindole, 5-fluoroindole, and 6-fluoroindole. Inhibition of tobacco cell growth by 5-aminoindole, 5-methoxyindole, 6-methoxyindole, or 7-methoxyindole was also partially reversed. Previously selected carrot and tobacco lines, which have high free tryptophan levels, grew in the presence of the analogs for which reversal was noted in all cases except 5-aminoindole and also in some other cases. Growth inhibition caused by all 10 tryptophan analogs studied was partially reversible by tryptophan or indole and the high tryptophan lines were also able to grow in the presence of concentrations inhibitory to the wild type lines. Tryptophan synthase activity from both species could utilize most of the 2 or 3 position unsubstituted indole analogs to produce the corresponding tryptophan analogs. Using carrot cell extracts, the identity of the correct product was confirmed by automated amino acid analysis for 4-fluoroindole, 5-fluoroindole, and 5-hydroxyindole. The analogs most rapidly utilized by carrot tryptophan synthase were 6-methoxyindole and the 4-, 5-, or 6-fluoroindoles. When 4-fluoroindole, 5-hydroxyindole, 5-methoxyindole, or 5-methylindole were incubated with carrot cells the corresponding tryptophan analog was formed in all cases as identified by amino acid analysis. These results indicate that cultured carrot and tobacco cells can convert certain nontoxic indole analogs into toxic tryptophan analogs. Using 5-fluoroindole and 6-fluoroindole, attempts were made to isolate tryptophan auxotrophs lacking tryptophan synthase from diploid carrot and tobacco lines. However, only 5-methyltryptophan-resistant lines, which presumably accumulate high levels of free tryptophan, were recovered.
On the kinetic energy budget of the summer-mean flow at 200 mb in the tropics

The 200-mb wind data of the 1967 summer in the tropics is used to analyze the kinetic energy budget of the tropical time-mean flow. The horizontal distributions of the kinetic energy variables in the tropics are investigated and compared with the midlatitude studies of Holopainen (1978) and Lau (1979). The results reveal that the large-valued transient kinetic energy extends from the maximum core to the downstream of the tropical easterly jet. The maximum kinetic energy of the tropical time-mean flow goes hand in hand with this jet core. The relative locations of the maximum kinetic energy of the time-mean and transient flows in the tropics differ from those in the midlatitudes. The geographic distributions of horizontal fluxes of kinetic energy in the tropics shown in this study and the vertical circulations in the upstream and downstream sides of the tropical easterly jet shown by Krishnamurti (1971a, b) indicate that the kinetic energetics of the tropical easterly jet may be similar to that of the westerly jet in the midlatitudes. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1982.tb01792.x
Mechanical Unloading through Ventricular Assist Devices Increases Myocardial Content of Unsaturated Acyl-CoA Species in Patients with Advanced Heart Failure

Purpose Heart failure (HF) is associated with abnormal metabolism and lipotoxicity. Fatty acids (Fas) and fatty acyl-CoAs may act as important mediators of lipotoxicity but their composition in human HF is unclear. We analyzed acyl-CoA and FA species in patients with HF before and after implantation of a ventricular assist device (LVAD) and controls. Methods and Materials Serum and myocardium were collected from 20 pats before and 15 pats after LVAD placement and 10 controls (con). FA and fatty acyl-CoA content were measured by LC/MS. Results Myocardial total fatty acyl-CoA (2.0±0.4 vs. 4.8±0.4 nmol/g in con, p 0.05) compared to con indicating reduced cardiac lipid uptake. Myocardial fatty acyl-CoA species C14, C16, C18, C16:1, C18:2, C18:1 and C20:4 were lower in HF compared to con (all p Conclusions HF is associated with decreased cardiac Fas and fatty acyl-CoA content. Mechanical unloading improves myocardial and skeletal metabolism with increased fatty acyl-CoAs and increased unsaturated fatty acyl-CoAs, suggesting increased lipid uptake. Thus, impaired lipid metabolism in HF can be corrected by LVAD therapy and potentially with pharmacologic therapies.
Taylor Vortices–Induced Instability (Transition Flow) versus “Turbulence” in Concentric Cylinders Separated by Microscale Clearances

This paper is concerned with the relationship between the onset and the development of the Taylor instabilities and their treatment as turbulent flows in the most accepted turbulence models (Constantinescu (1); Ng-Pan (2); Hirs (3)) used with the Reynolds equation, in the range of 41.3√R/C < Re < 2000. The authors show that in between these limits there is a transition regime where the velocity and pressure profiles are fundamentally different from either a Couette flow or a fully developed turbulent flow. Thus the issue under consideration is whether the flow formations observed during Taylor instability regimes should be simulated using the widely accepted turbulence models as they presently are modeled in microscale clearance flows. We are considering the flow of light silicone oil in gaps varying from 3.302 mm (0.13 in.) to 0.127 mm (0.005 in.) between two concentric cylinders, with the inner cylinder rotating. The computational engine used in this study is a well-established and a tried software pack...
Ganglioside-liposome immunoassay for the ultrasensitive detection of cholera toxin.

An extremely sensitive bioassay has been developed for cholera toxin (CT) detection, using ganglioside-incorporated liposomes. Cholera is a diarrheal disease, often associated with water or seafood...
Abstract P2-05-06: Does the lipid mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate have a role in obesity-related cancer progression?

INTRODUCTION: Obesity, which is the number one health risk in US ranked by the CDC, is an established independent prognostic factor for breast cancer patients. While the link between obesity and elevated breast cancer mortality is well known, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The pleiotropic bioactive lipid mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) has emerged as a key regulatory molecule in cancer progression and inflammation. S1P is generated by two sphingosine kinases, SphK1 and SphK2, and exerts its functions by binding to specific G protein-coupled receptors (S1PR1-5). We have recently shown that SphK1, but not SphK2, produces S1P that is exported from breast cancer cells, mediated by the ATP-binding cassette transporter, ABCC1. Furthermore, we discovered that another S1P transporter, Spns2, is important for the lymphatic network formation in the LNs. FTY720, which after phosphorylation is a S1PR1 functional antagonist, was recently approved by FDA for multiple sclerosis. FTY720 also has been suggested to have some anti-cancer actions. Our hypothesis is that obesity up-regulates SphK1, which produces more S1P; the elevated levels of S1P in both tumor and its microenvironment stimulate breast cancer progression. FTY720 is expected to disrupt the SphK1/S1P/S1PR1 axis, which is strengthened by obesity, and to reduce cancer metastasis and prolong survival. We tested our hypothesis by utilizing animal models of breast cancer with obesity treated with FTY720. METHODS: We utilized two different syngeneic breast cancer mouse models: 4T1-luc2 cells in BALB/c mice and E0771 cells in C57Bl/6 mice, both inoculated into mammary fat pads of mice fed with normal or high fat diet. FTY720 was given orally. Western blot, QPCR and LC-ESI-MS/MS assays were used. RESULTS: We observed that breast tumors in obese animals expressed higher levels of SphK1 and S1P transporters, such as ABCC1 and Spns2, as compared to animals on a normal diet. The levels of S1P in the plasma of obese mice were also elevated, which appears to be a consequence of the higher production of S1P by SphK1 in the tumor and its microenvironment. Importantly, tumor progression in both models was suppressed significantly by administration of FTY720. Interestingly, the cancer progression was suppressed more efficiently in the obese mice than the lean mice. Further, LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis showed that FTY720 suppressed S1P levels not only in the blood, but also in the tumor interstitial fluid. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the S1P axis is strengthened by obesity, and has a role in cancer progression. Targeting the S1P axis with FTY720 may be useful for treating breast cancer in individuals with obesity. M.N. is a Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Postdoctoral Fellow. This work was supported by NIH grants R37GM043880, R01CA61774 (to S.S.) and R01CA160688 (to K.T.). Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P2-05-06.
Cross-Reactivity of Human Luteinizing Hormone (β- Subunit) and a Serine Protease Demonstrated by Immunoperoxidase Staining in Human Oocytes*

Localization of the β-subunit of human LH (hLHβ) in the cytoplasm and nucleus of human oocytes obtained from antral follicles at different times of the menstrual cycle was demonstrated by immunohistochemical techniques. The presence of considerable amounts of LH at cycle times other than during the surge coupled with two puzzling technical aspects of the localization prompted further study based on a cross-reactivity with serine proteases suggested by other reports. Complete elimination of the staining reaction was achieved by prior absorption of the hLHβ antiserum with hLHβ, the synthetic homologous (CAGY) sequence [H2N-Thr- Gly-Tyr-His-NH2].Almost total elimination was observed after absorption with normal human plasma, while partial blocking was achieved after absorption with chymotrypsinogen A. Staining of sections of rat and human anterior pituitary glands was used to evaluate the completeness of the absorption of antihLHβ with hLHβ. No appreciable difference was seen in the staining of the gonadotro...
Modified couple stress-based third-order theory for nonlinear analysis of functionally graded beams

A MICROSTRUCTURE-DEPENDENT NONLINEAR THIRD-ORDER BEAM THEORY WHICH ACCOUNTS FOR THROUGH-THICKNESS POWER-LAW VARIATION OF A TWO-CONSTITUENT MATERIAL IS DEVELOPED USING HAMILTON'S PRINCIPLE. THE FORMULATION IS BASED ON A MODIFIED COUPLE STRESS THEORY, POWER-LAW VARIATION OF THE MATERIAL, AND THE VON KARMAN NONLINEAR STRAINS. THEMODIFIED COUPLE STRESS THEORY CONTAINS A MATERIAL LENGTH SCALE PARAMETER THAT CAN CAPTURE THE SIZE EFFECT IN A FUNCTIONALLY GRADED MATERIAL BEAM. THEINFLUENCE OF THE MATERIAL LENGTH SCALE PARAMETER ON LINEAR BENDING IS INVESTIGATED. THE FINITE ELEMENT MODELS ARE ALSO DEVELOPED TO DETERMINE THE EFFECT OF THE GEOMETRIC NONLINEARITY AND MICROSTRUCTURE-DEPENDENT CONSTITUTIVE RELATIONS ON LINEAR AND NONLINEAR RESPONSE.
Proteoglycan-lymphocyte association in the development of hypertrophic scars

Parallel histological stains and immunohistological stains were made of hypertrophic scars and normal scars in order to identify the type of cells and associated proteoglycans present in perivascular cuffs in hypertropic scars. Tissue sections were treated with monoclonal antibodies which specifically recognize T-cells and unsulphated, 4-sulphated and 6-sulphated chondroitin proteoglycans. There was a striking association between the perivascular lymphocytic infiltration and chondroitin-4-sulphate, which may be an important contributory factor in the development of hypertrophic scars.
Probing polyfunctional nature of vanadyl pyrophosphate catalysts: oxidation of 16 C4 molecules

Abstract A vanadyl pyrophosphate catalyst, (VO)2P2O7, was investigated for its ability to selectively oxidize 16 C4 probe molecules, including hydrocarbons, alcohols, diols, and five-membered heterocycles, to maleic anhydride in a fixed bed microreactor. It was observed that besides linear-chain hydrocarbons and five-membered heterocycles previously studied, the butanols and butanediols can also be selectively oxidized into maleic anhydride. This demonstrates the existence of new selective oxidation pathways of organic molecules over the VPO catalysts. A novel cis-(su)peroxo-oxovanadium(V) dimeric active surface site is proposed for the (1 0 0) plane of (VO)2P2O7. New selective oxidation pathways of organic molecules over the (VO)2P2O7 catalyst involving the proposed active surface site are described. The proposed pathways are consistent with both the redox behavior of VIV and VV and the known organic chemistry of the C4 probe molecules.
Simulation of environmental flows: Similarities and differences from technological flows

Abstract The most obvious and most important difference between technological and environmental flows is the length scales which need to be represented in the simulations. Other essential differences are that, on the smallest scales of environmental flows, the effects of stratification must be included and, on the larger scales, rotation plays a dominant role and must be accounted for. Another essential difference is that for many environmental flows it is essential to make forecasts-detailed predictions of the actual state (i.e., a single realization) for some time in the future. Thus, two types of simulations are performed: actual forecasts and simulations designed to produce data that will help simplify and reduce the cost of making forecasts. Several examples of the latter type are given in this paper: stratified sheared homogeneous turbulence, oscillating grid turbulence, oceanic upwelling, and Langmuir cells. They demonstrate the usefulness of small scale simulations in understanding and developing correlations for environmental flows.
CB8-03: Models of Integrated Care for Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Use in Pediatrics: Predictors and Implications for Practice and Policy

Background/Aims We describe findings from a longitudinal study of adolescent substance use (SU) treatment, a web survey of pediatric primary care providers (PCPs), and a pilot study of a Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model of primary care-based adolescent behavioral healthcare.
The magnetosphere of Venus: Evidence for a boundary layer and a magnetotail

Mariner 5 magnetic field data collected during its flyby of Venus are evaluated in the light of reexamination of Venera data and in the context of present knowledge on the interaction of the solar wind with the earth. Attention is focused on an analysis of 4 phenomenological regions: magnetosheath, boundary layer, tail, and upstream waves. Enough evidence is revealed for a boundary layer beginning in the dayside ionosphere. The study affirms the possibility that Venus has an intrinsic magnetotail; the key elements of this identification are the positions of the Mariner 5, Venera 4 and Venera 9 magnetopause crossings and the agreements of the polarity of the field during the Mariner 5 and Venera 9 wake traversals with the direction of the implied Venera 4 dipole moment.
Out of the mouths of babes: vocal production in infant siblings of children with ASD

Background: Younger siblings of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are at higher risk for acquiring these disorders than the general population. Language development is usually delayed in children with ASD. The present study examines the development of pre-speech vocal behavior in infants at risk for ASD due to the presence of an older sibling with the disorder. Methods: Infants at high risk (HR) for ASD and those at low risk, without a diagnosed sibling (LR), were seen at 6, 9, and 12 months as part of a larger prospective study of risk for ASD in infant siblings. Standard clinical assessments were administered, and vocalization samples were collected during play with mother and a standard set of toys. Infant vocal behavior was recorded and analyzed for consonant inventory, presence of canonical syllables, and of non-speech vocalizations, in a cross-sectional design. Children were seen again at 24 months for provisional diagnosis. Results: Differences were seen between risk groups for certain vocal behaviors. Differences in vocal production in the first year of life were associated with outcomes in terms of autistic symptomotology in the second year. Conclusions: Early vocal behavior is a sensitive indicator of heightened risk for autistic symptoms in infants with a family history of ASD.
Voice recognition: software solutions in real-time ATC workstations

Speech recognition features desired by air traffic controllers, such as the ability to use complex messages and address hundreds of individual aircraft could not be implemented a decade ago, but these tasks became possible with improved speech recognition engines and an increase in processing power and memory. Speech recognition was a key element in the air traffic controller (ATC) workstation used to support a Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) system. Our work, under the direction of the Avionics Engineering Center at Ohio University, was in support of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Runway Incursion Reduction Program (RIRP) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Runway Incursion Prevention System (RIPS) conducted at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). This paper examines the challenges and opportunities of developing voice recognition software solutions in ATC workstations using multiple dialects and accents, complex and varied grammars and terminology, accuracy, hardware restrictions, and user-training procedures.
A Web-Based Contingency Management Program With Adolescent Smokers

The present study evaluated a new 30-day Web-based contingency management program for smoking abstinence with 4 daily-smoking adolescents. Participants made 3 daily video recordings of themselves giving breath carbon monoxide (CO) samples at home that were sent electronically to study personnel. Using a reversal design, participants could earn money for continued abstinence during the treatment phases (CO ≤ 5 ppm). All participants were compliant with the treatment (submitting 97.2% of samples), and all achieved prolonged abstinence from smoking.