cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Correlations of gene expression with blood lead levels in children with autism compared to typically developing controls

The objective of this study was to examine the correlation between gene expression and lead (Pb) levels in blood in children with autism (AU, n = 37) compared to typically developing controls (TD, n = 15). We postulated that, though lead levels did not differ between the groups, AU children might metabolize lead differently compared to TD children. RNA was isolated from blood and processed on Affymetrix microarrays. Separate analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) corrected for age and gender were performed for TD, AU, and all subjects (AU + TD). To reduce false positives, only genes that overlapped these three ANCOVAs were considered. Thus, 48 probe sets correlated with lead levels in both AU and TD subjects and were significantly different between the groups (p(Diagnosis × log2 Pb) < 0.05). These genes were related mainly to immune and inflammatory processes, including MHC Class II family members and CD74. A large number (n = 791) of probe sets correlated (P ≤ 0.05) with lead levels in TD but not in AU subjects; and many probe sets (n = 162) correlated (P ≤ 0.05) with lead levels in AU but not in TD subjects. Only 30 probe sets correlated (P ≤ 0.05) with lead levels in a similar manner in the AU and TD groups. These data show that AU and TD children display different associations between transcript levels and low levels of lead. We postulate that this may relate to the underlying genetic differences between the two groups, though other explanations cannot be excluded.
Plasma-assisted coherent backscattering for standoff spectroscopy

We show that an intense coherent backward signal can be generated through a Raman-type four-wave-mixing process using forward propagating fields only. Phase matching for this process is achieved through a plasma modulation of the refractive index. Applications to standoff spectroscopy are discussed.
The single particle nilsson model for odd-mass nuclei in the 1d-2s shell

Abstract Nuclei in the 1d-2s shell are grouped according to their last odd nucleon number. Their properties are examined strictly within the framework of the extreme single particle Nillsson model. The effect of band mixing is included in a consistent way. Properties, such as energy spectra, magnetic moments and E2 and M1 transitions of odd-mass nuclei with Z or N = 9, 11 and 13, can be well described by the model. However, when Z or N = 15, it is not possible to fit these properties with a consistent variation of the parameters of the Nilsson potential Nuclei with Z or N = 17 exhibit low-lying core excitations and therefore the extreme single particle model is not valid for them.
Chemoprevention of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia

The uses of synthetic heme analogues that are competitive inhibitors of heme oxygenase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the production of bilirubin, represent a novel means of controlling severe hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn. The logic of this approach and the use of stannsoporfin (tin mesoporphyrin) as the compound of choice are discussed.
D-1 and D-2 dopaminergic receptors regulate protein phosphorylation in the rat neurohypophysis.

Dopamine stimulates the phosphorylation of the neuron-specific synaptic vesicle proteins Synapsin I, Protein IIIa and Protein IIIb in the posterior pituitary gland of the rat [Tsou and Greengard (1982)Proc. natn. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.79, 6075–6079. This effect has been characterized in the present investigation. The stimulatory effect of dopamine was mimicked by the selective D-l receptor agonist SKF 38393 and was competitively and potently inhibited by the selective D-l receptor antagonist SKF 83509 as well as by the mixed D-l/D-2 antagonist fluphenazine. Conversely, the effect of dopamine was attenuated by a D-2 receptor agonist (LY 141865) and potentiated by a D-2 receptor antagonist (sulpiride). Norepinephrine also stimulated phosphorylation of the synaptic vesicle proteins, apparently through activation of the D-l receptor. D-l and D-2 dopaminergic receptors may play a role in the regulation of hormone secretion from the neurohypophysis. Evidence exists that in the isolated neurophypophysis activation of D-l receptors facilitates, while activation of D-2 receptors inhibits, release of vasopressin. Further work will be required to determine whether the regulation by D-l and D-2 receptors of the protein phosphorylation in the neurohypophysial peptidergic terminals is related to the regulation by those receptors of the neurohypophysial hormone secretion.
738–2 The Evolution of Therapy for Single Vessel Disease: A Treatment Comparison of Medicine, Angioplasty and Left Internal Mammary Artery Graft for Proximal Left Anterior Descending Disease

Saphenous vein bypass grafting for single vessel disease offers no survival or symptom relief advantage compared to medical therapy. Recent evidence suggests the use of the internal mammary artery or PTCA may be more beneficial than medicine. To examine the outcome of these treatment strategies, a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on 23,018 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac catheterization between April 1986 and February 1994 was performed. Of the 6,432 patients with single vessel disease, 1,222 had a proximal left anterior descending (LAD) stenosis g 74% and no prior PTCA or CABG. A total of 289 were managed medically, 760 underwent PTCA, and 172 received a left internal mammary artery (LIMA) graft. Baseline demographic data and risk factor profiles were similar except for a higher incidence of diabetes (19 vs 15 vs 11%), history of MI (72 vs 58 vs 48%) CHF (18 vs 7 vs 8%), and total occlusions (44 vs 17 vs 7%) and lower incidence of unstable angina (40 vs 61 vs 64%) in the medical group as compared to PTCA and LIMA graft, respectively. Kaplan-Meier 6-year estimates: Events Medicine PTCA LIMA P-value – unadjusted survival (%) 78 85 91 0.001 – adjusted survival (%) 84 86 90 0.24 – event-free survival (%) 54 43 72 0.0001 Conclusion There is a trend towards improved long-term survival in proximal LAD disease with a strategy of revascularization, particularly the LIMA graft. Furthermore, event-free survival is significantly improved with the LIMA graft as compared to medical therapy or PTCA.
OSI-SNA interconnections

As Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) becomes an international standard, it is gaining support in both industry and government agencies. One of the major applications of OSI is to act as an intermediary between heterogeneous networks. This paper discusses a scheme for interconnecting a Systems Network Architecture (SNA) network with OSI. This scheme is based on a joint study between IBM Japan and Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation conducted during 1984. Fundamental relationships between OSI session and transport layers and SNA Logical Unit type 6.2 are explored. An OSI-SNA gateway structure is examined, and data units, address translation, and exception handling are discussed.
Cross-Linkable, Gain-of-Function Phospholamban (PLB) Mutant Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of SERCA2a Inhibition

The PLB monomer inhibits the Ca2+ pump of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2a) by decreasing the apparent Ca2+ affinity of the enzyme. Here we addressed the molecular mechanism of enzyme inhibition using a PLB triple-mutant, N27A, N30C, L37A-PLB (PLB3), which is a potent gain-of-function PLB mutant that is cross-linkable to SERCA2a at Lys328. We observed that the protein-protein interaction between PLB3 and SERCA2a was strictly Ca2+-dependent and that several fold higher Ca2+ concentrations were required to both dissociate PLB3 from SERCA2a and to stimulate Ca2+-ATPase activity. The results suggest that PLB inhibits SERCA2a activity by competing directly for Ca2+ binding to the enzyme and that PLB must completely dissociate from SERCA2a for enzyme activation to occur. To test this hypothesis further, we co-expressed PLB3 with D351A-SERCA2a, a Ca2+ pump mutant that is inactivated at the site of ATP hydrolysis in the cytoplasm, but which retains the two high affinity Ca2+ binding sites in the membrane and maintains the thermodynamic equilibrium between E1 (high Ca2+ affinity state) and E2 (low Ca2+ affinity state). Remarkably, the affinity of D351A for Ca2+ was increased 30-fold relative to that of WT-SERCA2a, demonstrating a robust, long-range communication between the ATP hydrolysis site in the cytoplasm and the Ca2+ binding sites in the membrane. Nonetheless, PLB3 continued to bind strongly to D351A, and several fold higher Ca2+ concentrations were required to dissociate PLB3 from D351A compared to PLB molecules with normal function. Our results strongly support our model in which PLB binds to one unique conformation of SERCA2a, the Ca2+ free, E2 conformation stabilized by bound nucleotide. For both WT-SERCA2a and D351A, PLB lowers the Ca2+ binding affinity of the enzyme by stabilizing E2 thereby blocking the transition to E1.
Volcanic lake systematics I. Physical constraints

Volcanic lakes have a wide range of characteristics, and we make an attempt to delineate the limiting physical conditions for several lake classes. The ratio between heat input and heat dissipation capacity of a lake constrains the temperature for perfectly mixed steady-state volcanic lakes. Poorly mixed lakes are also conditioned by this ratio, but their temperature structure is also strongly influenced by the hydrodynamics resulting from different mechanisms of heat transfer. The steady-state temperatures of volcanic lakes are largely determined by the magnitude of the volcanic heat influx relative to the surface area of the lake. Small lakes have only a small capacity for heat dissipation and their temperature rises quickly with only small heat inputs; large lakes are buffered against variations in heat input. Both the heat dissipation and meteoric water input into a lake are functions of lake surface area and therefore each lake water temperature demands a certain precipitation rate for mass conservation, independent of lake size. The results of energy/mass-balance modeling shows that under common atmospheric conditions, most steady-state volcanic lakes are unlikely to maintain a temperature in excess of 45–50 °C. Validation of the volcanic lake model was performed using published data from Yugama Lake (Japan) and the Keli Mutu lakes (Indonesia). Also, the model was applied to 24 natural systems to provide a baseline assessment of energy fluxes under the model assumptions so future work on those systems can identify nuances in individual systems that deviate from the simple model conditions. We recommend the model for use in assessing temperature variations and volcanic lake stability in settings with known physical and atmospheric conditions. Application of the energy/mass balance calculations of model lakes provides a genetic classification scheme largely based on physical process parameters.
Interwoven frequency comb

A mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser with intracavity Fabry-Perot produces a frequency comb at 7 GHz including a fine structure at 100 MHz. The complex nature of this interwoven comb is analyzed.
Coarctation of the aorta in a 6 month old

A 6-month-old male presented with increased respiratory efforts, a low grade fever, O2 saturations in the high 80s and wheezing. Symptoms improved with nebulized albuterol. A chest X-ray revealed cardiomegaly and a right-sided infiltrate (Figs. ​(Figs.11 and ​and2);2); EKG revealed criteria consistent with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). An echocardiogram confirmed coarctation of the aorta (Fig. ​(Fig.33). Fig. 1 Anteroposterior chest X-ray showing cardiomegaly and para-influenza pneumonia Fig. 2 Lateral chest X-ray showing cardiomegaly Fig. 3 EKG showing LVH consistent with cardiomegaly Coarctation of the aorta is a narrowing of the lumen of the aortic arch classified as either “pre-ductal” or “post-ductal” based on the location relative to the origin of the left subclavian artery [1–3]. In 85% of cases, coarctation of the aorta is seen with other congenital defects [1]. Males are twice as likely to have coarctation of the aorta, although it is a common manifestation of Turner’s syndrome [1, 3]. The condition can also be sub-divided into infantile (within the first year of life) and non-infantile (delayed) presentation. When the ductus arteriosus closes shortly after birth, infants with coarctation can present with cardiovascular collapse and resulting cyanosis [1]. In the non-infantile presentation, collateralization of blood vessels (including intercostal, subclavian, vertebral, anterior spinal, and internal mammary arteries) allows for the distal aorta to be adequately perfused [1, 3]. In the non-infantile presentation, upper extremity systolic hypertension, a short systolic murmur in the left interscalpular area, and diminished/absent femoral pulses can be seen in otherwise asymptomatic patients [1]. Older children and adults present symptomatically with dyspnea, headache, and/or leg fatigue [1, 3]. Our patient presented early because a para-influenza pneumonia stressed his cardiopulmonary system, caused wheezing, and led a prudent physician to obtain a chest X-ray in this “first-time wheezer.”
Abstracts From the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Annual Scientific Meeting: Proportion Published and Time to Publication

s From the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Annual Scientific Meeting: Proportion Published and Time to Publication Shahrokh C. Bagheri, DMD, MD,* Nathan Lenox,† David S. Verschueren, DMD,‡ Eric Holmgren, DMD, MD,§ Deepak Kademani, DMD, MD, R. Bryan Bell, DDS, MD,¶ and Eric J. Dierks, DMD, MD# n s b t i O a p E t t
Ion-Pair Extraction of Pharmaceutical Amines II: Extraction Profile of Chlorpheniramine

The extractability of chlorpheniramine in its ion-pair form has been investigated under several conditions to determine the suitability of the process for separation and isolation of the drug in analytical samples. Chlorpheniramine, chosen as an example of a drug having two basic centers per molecule, exists in aqueous solution as a mixture of uncharged, singly charged, and doubly charged species. Data are presented to show that the drug can be extracted as the chloride, bromide, maleate, trichloroacetate, picrate, etc. The extraction-pH profiles of both the picrate and the bromide correspond closely with the theoretical relationship. As with the mono-acidic amines, extraction into the organic phase requires the presence of proton donating species. Experimental data suggest, for example, that the extracted species is coordinated with 5 molecules of chloroform.
Ionic liquids as viscosity modifiers for heavy and extra-heavy crude oils

Abstract Heavy oils and extra-heavy oils (bitumens) are difficult to produce and transport due to problems associated with the aggregation of asphaltene molecules. Asphaltenes, a primary component of heavy oils and bitumens, affect the viscosity significantly. Traditional methods of viscosity reduction for heavy petroleum fluids include thermal or dilution methods. In this work, we employ an alternative method for viscosity reduction, by using functionalized molecules that could interact with the asphaltenes and change the properties of the crude oil at the molecular level, reducing viscosity. Ionic liquids, having favorable thermophysical properties such as low vapor pressure, are the functionalized molecules tested in this work. Various properties of the ionic liquids such as alkyl tail lengths (C2, C4, C6, C8, C10, and C12), counter-ion charge density (chloride, thiocyanate, and tetrafluoroborate), and type of head group (imidazolium, pyridinium, and thiazolium) are tested with a Mexican heavy oil and Canadian and Venezuelan bitumens. Small amounts of the additives (between 1 and 10 ppm), dissolved in toluene, are used. Viscosity reduction up to 35% is observed for the crude oils, with dodecylpyridinium chloride showing the maximum reduction. Various molecular interactions between the ionic liquids and the asphaltene molecules, such as aromatic, acid–base, and charge-transfer interactions, seem to hinder the asphaltene aggregate formation, which consequently reduces the viscosity. These results set the stage for further research on the viscosity reduction of heavy oil and extra-heavy oils by using functionalized molecules.
The effect of alcohol abuse on the health status of older adults seen in the emergency department.

Objective: To examine the effect of alcohol abuse on the subsequent health status of elderly patients seen in an emergency department (ED). Patients and methods: A sample of 966 patients aged 65 or older who presented to one urban academic ED between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 midnight was followed for 1 year. A personal interview was administered during the ED visit. Current problem drinkers had a score of 1 or greater on the CAGE questionnaire at ED presentation and drank within the prior 6 months; former problem drinkers had a score of 1 or greater on the CAGE questionnaire at ED presentation and a last drink more than 6 months previously. We used 13 items from the Medical Outcomes Study short form adapted to the ED setting and 6 items from the Index of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) to measure health status. Results: In multivariate models for repeated-measures controlling for potential confounding factors, current problem drinkers had worse overall health (parameter estimate β −3.6; 95% CI −7.1 to ...
Superoxides: Alternative Oxidants for the Oxidative Desulfurization Process

Superoxides, for instance, potassium superoxide, have been demonstrated as alternative oxidants for the oxidative desulfurization process. For model compounds of benzothiophene, dibenzothiophene, and a number of selected diesel oil samples, sulfur removal greater than 90% and as high as 99% was accomplished. The results for using this solid potassium superoxide are comparable to or better than the results with liquid hydrogen peroxide for the ultrasound-assisted oxidative desulfurization (UAOD) or oxidative desulfurization (ODS) process. This solid oxidant can highly reduce the weight of oxidant dose, reactor volume, storage, and transport/shipment requirements. For the first time, the feasibility of desulfurization for high sulfur containing heavy oil with sulfur content greater than 1% has been demonstrated.
ENERGETIC STABILITY OF PERSISTENT CURRENTS IN A LONG HOLLOW CYLINDER

This paper represents an extension of the work of Schafroth in which the carriers of electricity in a superconductor are assumed to constitute an ideal Bose gas. The long-range electromagnetic interactions are fully taken into account by the method of the self-consistent field. The corresponding general equations are obtained from a variational principle applied to the total energy of the system, and the change of the total energy due to individual particle transitions is considered. Axially symmetric solutions are found for the geometry of a long hollow cylinder and for the case in which all particles are in the same lowest single-particle level compatible with the angular momentum ${l}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\hbar}$ around the cylinder axis. This case represents a state of the system in which ${l}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ flux quanta are trapped in the cylinder. Assuming the lattice to be at $T=0$, such a state will be stable against single-particle transitions if the corresponding energy change of the system is positive. This state need not be the state of lowest energy, but it would have a practically infinite lifetime if the stability criterion against single-particle transitions is satisfied. Indeed, its energy could only be lowered by a simultaneous transition of a number of particles comparable to their total number, which would be an extremely rare event. It is shown that stability depends on the fields ${H}_{1}$ and ${H}_{2}$ in the cylinder hole and outside the cylinder, respectively. For ${H}_{1}={H}_{2}$, stability requires that these fields be less than ${H}^{*}=4\ensuremath{\pi}n{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{0}$, where $n$ is the density of the bosons and ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{0}$ is the Bohr magneton. For ${H}_{2}=0$, it requires that ${H}_{1}l{({H}_{c})}_{T}$ where ${({H}_{c})}_{T}$ depends upon the hole radius ${r}_{1}$ and the wall thickness $d$. For $d\ensuremath{\gg}{r}_{1}$, one finds ${({H}_{c})}_{T}={H}^{*}$, while for $d\ensuremath{\ll}{r}_{1}$, one has ${({H}_{c})}_{T}=(\frac{d}{{r}_{1}}){H}^{*}$. The difference between ${({H}_{c})}_{T}$ and ${H}^{*}$ for $d\ensuremath{\ll}{r}_{1}$ is further investigated, and it is shown that the case for which ${H}^{*}g{H}_{1}g{({H}_{c})}_{T}$ may nevertheless experimentally appear to be stable since the stability conditions are strongly modified considering that the transfer of very small but finite amounts of energy to the lattice may not occur during the time of a measurement.
Structure and function of metal cations in light alkane reactions catalyzed by modified H-ZSM5

Abstract The rate of propane dehydrocyclodimerization to form C 6 aromatics is limited by a sequence of irreversible dehydrogenation reactions leading to propene, higher alkenes, dienes, trienes, and aromatics. Quasi-equilibrated acid—catalyzed cracking, oligometization, and cyclization reactions of alkene intermediates occur in sequence with these dehydrogenation reactions. Each dehydrogenation reaction is in turn limited by the rate of elementary steps that dispose of H-atoms formed in C-H bond activation steps. The rate of C-H bond activation, recombinative hydrogen desorption, and propane chemical conversion have been measured from the rates of isotopic redistribution and chemical conversion during reactions of C 3 H 8 /C 3 /D 8 and D 2 /C 3 /H 8 mixtures on H-ZSM5, Ga/H-ZSM5, and Zn/H-ZSM5. Isotopic studies show that C-H activation steps are fast during steady-state propane dehydrocyclodimerization on H-ZSM5, Ga/H-ZSM5, and Zn/H-ZSM5. Ga and Zn species increase the rates of propane chemical conversion, recombinative hydrogen desorption, and deuterium incorporation from D 2 into reaction products. Disposal of hydrogen formed in C-H bond activation steps occurs by transfer of H-atoms to unsaturated species to form alkanes or to Ga and Zn species, which catalyze the recombinative desorption of H-atoms to form dihydrogen (H 2 ). The sequential release of several H-atoms during a propane dehydrocyclodimerization turnover limits the rate and selectivity of this reaction on H-ZSM5. In-situ X-ray absorption studies suggest that Ga and Zn species reside at cation exchange sites as monomeric cations and that recombinative desorption involve reduction—oxidation cycles of such cations during each dehydrocyclodimerization turnover. These monomeric species form directly during exchange of Zn ions from solution onto H-ZSM5. Ga 3+ species, however, do not exchange directly from solution onto H-ZSM5, but instead form extrazeolitic Ga 2 O 3 crystals. Ion exchange occurs during subsequent contact with propane or hydrogen at 700-800 K via vapor phase exchange of volatile Ga 1+ species.
Design and construction of an astrometric astrograph

The Optical Sciences Center, University of Arizona, has designed and constructed a unique 'red corrected' astrometric astrograph objective lens for the United States Naval Observatory. A five element design, with an integral Schott OG550 filter, was developed to meet the requirement for a 2060 mm focal length, f/10 system. The lens provides a nearly zero distortion flat field of 5 by 5 degrees in the sky. A weight limit of 55 kg led to the use of a titanium lens barrel. Assembly tolerances are satisfied through the use of elastomeric subcell mounting of the individual elements, and an adjustable final element. The lens is hermetically sealed and uses a filter/dessicator system to insure the long term cleanliness of the optics.
Tissue catecholamines and potential tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid metabolites: a gas chromatographic assay method with electron capture detection.

A convenient method for the simultaneous gas chromatographic (GC) analysis of endogenous catecholamines (CA) and their alkaloid cyclization products with simple aldehydes, that is, catechol tetrahydroisoquinolines (TIQ) which may occur in vivo during alcoholism, has been developed. Catechol compounds are extracted from HClO4 supernatants of tissues with aluminum oxide, derivatized for GC analysis with heptafluorobutyryl (HFB)-anhydride at room temperature, separated on 5% GE XF-1105 or 3% OV-17 columns, and analyzed at picogram levels with a 63Ni electron capture (EC) detector. Levels of endogenous CAs in normal rat brain and in adrenals are readily determined with this method. If present in tissues, the TIQs derived from the cyclizations of acetaldehyde (AcH) with norepinephrine and epinephrine would be separated from their parent CAs on GE XF-1105, but salsolinol, the TIQ derived from dopamine (DA) and AcH, would require separation from DA on an alternate column such as 3% OV-17. The potential detection and analysis of salsolinol is particularly favored with this method because the HFB-derivative of salsolinol is very responsive to the EC detector. This method is applicable to small tissue samples and can be adapted clinically to serum and urine studies.
Effects in post-conflict West Africa of teacher training for refugee women

This article draws data from an innovative research project tracing former refugee teachers who received teacher training from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) over a 17-year-long education programme in refugee camps in Guinea (1991–2008). The research traced repatriated refugee teachers who had returned to their homes in Sierra Leone and Liberia in an effort to determine the effects of the training they received – particularly whether they were still working as teachers in their post-repatriation lives, or whether they had made use of their training in other ways. Although the research in question focused on all of the former IRC teachers who the research team could trace, the present paper is about the female teachers and their specific situations. Focusing on the women's responses yields the gender-specific conclusions about structural barriers to institutional and societal changes in conflict and post-conflict settings.
Considerations and proposed experimental design for the safety evaluation of biological pesticides in nontarget species

Abstract Increased concern over the widespread use of toxic agricultural chemicals and an increased recognition of the potential of biological pesticides has stimulated much research activity to develop and implement the use of biological pesticides. Several biological insectcides have been evaluated for safety, but, excluding those for viral insecticides, no detailed protocols for the evaluation of safety have been published. A flexible protocol for evaluating the potential hazard of biological pesticides with the rationale for experimental design is presented.
Ambient noise levels in the chemotherapy clinic

Many of the drugs used for chemotherapy treatments are known to be ototoxic, and can result in permanent hearing threshold shifts. The degree of ototoxic damage can be influenced by many factors including dosage, duration of exposure, genetics, and coadministration with other ototoxic agents. Cisplatin is known for its ototoxic effects on hearing thresholds, particularly in the high frequencies. Recent studies have indicated a synergistic relationship between Cisplatin administration and moderate to high noise level exposure starting between 70-85 dB SPL. This study measured the noise levels in the Portland Veteran's Affairs Medical Center's outpatient chemotherapy clinic. Average (LAeq) and peak (LCpeak) noise measures were recorded every minute from 7 am until 6 pm on the two busiest clinic days. Patients, visitors, and staff members filled out anonymous surveys regarding their reactions to noise levels. Cumulative noise levels were not at levels known to interact with Cisplatin for a significant period of time. Noise measurement analysis indicated that levels were at or above 70 dB SPL for less than ten minutes during the 11-hour recording window. The patient and visitor surveys indicated that both groups were unbothered by noise in the clinic. However, most staff members were bothered by or concerned about noise levels, and many felt that it caused stress and difficulty communicating on the phone.
Development of integrated chassis control system for vehicle handling enhancement

Various active chassis control systems have been developed to improve vehicle handling and stability. Brake-based electronic stability programs and advanced driveline technologies can distribute different wheel torque to all four wheels to regulate vehicle motion. Active front and rear steer systems are widely used to control the vehicle yaw rate and side slip responses. In addition, active anti-roll bars can improve vehicle handling by adjusting roll moment distribution. This paper proposes an integrated chassis control scheme that combines these individual systems using nonlinear predictive control theory. An 8 degree-of-freedom vehicle model is used with a Magic Formula tire model for controller development. The performance of proposed controller is compared to individual control system through simulation and shows significant improvement in vehicle handling.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
MICRO-SENSING CHARACTERISTICS AND MODAL VOLTAGES OF LINEAR/NON-LINEAR TOROIDAL SHELLS

Abstract Toroidal shells belong to the shells of revolution family. Dynamic sensing signals and their distributed characteristics of spatially distributed sensors or neurons laminated on thin toroidal shell structures are investigated in this study. Spatially distributed modal voltages and signal patterns are related to the meridional and circumferential membrane/bending strains, based on the direct piezoelectricity, the Gauss theorem, the Maxwell principle and the open-circuit assumption; linear and non-linear toroidal shells are defined based on the thin shell theory and the von Karman geometric non-linearity. With the simplified mode shape functions defined by the Donnell–Mushtari–Vlasov theory, modal-dependent distributed signals and detailed signal components of spatially distributed sensors or neurons are defined and these signals are quantitatively illustrated. Signal distributions basically reveal distinct modal characteristics of toroidal shells. Parametric studies suggest that the dominating signal component results from the meridional membrane strains. Shell dimensions, materials, boundary conditions, natural modes, sensor locations/distributions/sizes, modal strain components, etc., all influence the spatially distributed modal voltages and signal generations.
PPEF/PP7 protein Ser/Thr phosphatases

PPEF/PP7 represents one of the five subfamilies of the PPP protein Ser/Thr phosphatases. Studies published in recent years point to a role of plant PP7 at a crossroad of different pathways of light and stress signalling. In animals, PPEFs are highly expressed in sensory neurons, and Drosophila PPEF phosphatase, rdgC, is essential for dephosphorylation of rhodopsin. Expression profiling suggests that mammalian PPEF may play a role in stress-protective responses, cell survival, growth, proliferation, and oncogenesis. Despite structural similarities of the catalytic domains and the fact that some of these phosphatases are involved in light perception both in animals and in plants, the plant and non-plant representatives of this group have distinct domain architecture and appear not to be orthologues.
Prevention of recurrent preterm birth: role of the neonatal follow-up program.

Preterm birth (PTB) is a public health crisis in need of effective preventative strategies. Multi-disciplinary Neonatal Follow-up Programs (NFPs) provide health services to preterm infants at high risk for developmental problems after discharge from US newborn intensive care units. We aimed to determine whether NFPs are a potentially effective venue for specialized maternal counseling and intervention aimed at reducing the high rate of recurrent PTB in this population. This prospective case series enrolled women with preterm children evaluated in the Utah Department of Health NFP, 2010–2012. Women were interviewed, received Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) counseling services, and maternal and neonatal records were abstracted. We assessed maternal demographics, medical history, and characteristics of the index pregnancy. We calculated the proportion of women with knowledge of PTB recurrence risk and available prevention strategies, and assessed current contraceptive use and reproductive plans. Ninety-six women with a history of early PTB (≤26 weeks and/or birth weight < 1,250 g) were evaluated. Nearly 1 in 5 women (19.8 %) evaluated reported sexual activity, desire to avoid pregnancy, and no current contraceptive use, and were therefore at imminent risk of unintended pregnancy. Of women without permanent contraception, only 24.3 % were aware of their individual PTB recurrence risk. Of women with a history of spontaneous PTB, only 4 % were aware of effective pharmacologic preventative strategies. Introduction of MFM consultation as part NFP multi-disciplinary services is a novel approach with the potential to reduce recurrent PTB in an exceptionally high-risk population.
Dynamic Response Indicators of Heat Stress in Shaded and Non-shaded Feedlot Cattle, Part 1: Analyses of Indicators

Heat stress in feedlot cattle can cause decreases in feed intake and growth, and in extreme cases may result in death. Providing shade during hot weather has shown inconsistent results, reducing direct and indirect losses in some areas of the United States, but not in others. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the dynamic responses of feedlot cattle to environmental conditions with and without access to shade, and to determine the most appropriate physiological measurement for monitoring feedlot cattle during hot weather as a guide for improved management. Eight crossbred steers (initially weighing 294·7±10·8 kg) were randomly assigned to one of eight individual pens, where one of two treatments were applied: shade access, or no-shade access. Respiration rate, daily feed intake, and core body temperature were collected, using automated systems during eight periods, for a total of 37 days. The data were analysed using four categories of daily maximum temperature humidity index (maximum I TH ) values (Normal for maximum I TH I TH I TH I TH ⩾84). Shade was found to impact the physiological responses in all I TH categories, with the largest impacts in the Danger and Emergency categories. Shade lowered respiration rate and core body temperature during the peak temperature hours of the day. It was concluded that respiration rate is the most appropriate indicator of thermal stress to monitor because it was consistently affected in all I TH categories, it is easy to monitor without the need for costly equipment, and there is little or no lag associated with it.
Improving performance of a DC-DC cascaded converter system using an extra feedback loop

This paper introduces the extra feedback method as a technique to improve the performance of a cascaded converter system and stabilize its operation. In this paper, first, the block diagram representation of the small-signal model of a single converter is presented. The open-loop and closed-loop transfer functions of this converter are provided in this stage as well. Next, the presented model is expanded to the block diagram model of a cascaded converter system comprised of two dc-dc converters. Then, the extra feedback method which is the main contribution of the paper is introduced. Some design guidelines for applying this method to an experimental cascaded converter system are provided in this part as well. Finally, some experimental results are provided to verify the theoretical outcomes.
Anisotropy in domain engineered 0.92Pb(Zn/sub 1/3/Nb/sub 2/3/)O/sub 3/-0.08PbTiO/sub 3/ single crystal and analysis of its property fluctuations

The orientation dependence of slowness and electromechanical coupling coefficients of 0.92Pb(Zn/sub 1/3/Nb/sub 2/3/)O/sub 3/-0.08PbTiO/sub 3/ (PZN-8%PT) domain engineered single crystal was analyzed based on the measured complete set of elastic, piezoelectric, and dielectric constants. There exist one quasi-longitudinal, one quasi-shear, and one pure shear wave in each of the [100]-[010], [010]-[001], and [001]-[110] planes. The slowness of the quasi-shear wave exhibits strong anisotropy in all three planes, and the coupling coefficient k/sub 33/ and k/sub 31/ reach their maximum in [001] and [110] directions of cubic axis, respectively. Because the composition of the PMN-8%PT system is very close to the morphotropic phase boundary, the extraordinary large piezoelectric coefficients d/sub 31/ and d/sub 33/, and high coupling coefficient k/sub 33/ are very sensitive to compositional variation. We have performed error analysis and proposed an improved characterization scheme to derive a complete data set with best consistency.
Mixing and the bottom nepheloid layer

Abstract A close relationship between active mixing and the structure of the bottom nepheloid layer on the Oregon shelf is shown, by combining mixing information inferred from temperature microstructure with concentration profiles derived from a transmissometer mounted on the microstructure instrument. Mechanical energy dissipation rates and eddy coefficients are usually consistent with those in an unstratified turbulent boundary layer, but an exception was found when stratification due to suspended sediment was required to explain the observations. Except for this case, the suspended particle concentration profiles, for observations in approximately 100 m of water, are consistent with the assumption of local equilibrium between turbulent diffusion and gravitational settling. Observations made in deeper (180–200 m) water do not show this balance. The high-gradient region above the nepheloid layer in shallow water impedes diffusion sufficiently that escape of particles by this route is not important; winter mixing destroys the layer long before diffusion would. This region of low turbulent mixing was not consistently seen in the deeper water where high levels of turbidity were found throughout the water column. Low-density turbidity currents of approximately 1 cm s −1 can be generated by the concentrations found.
The Credibility of Posthypnotic Amnesia: A Contextualists' View

Abstract This paper attempts to demonstrate how the contextual view rather than the formist-mechanistic view may be more helpful in understanding posthypnotic amnesia. As a point of departure, the criterion for credible posthypnotic amnesia is defined as Ss' phenomenal experiences which are observed indirectly through their counterfactual statements expressed with a high degree of conviction. To make sense of such self-reports, concepts flowing from contextualism, the view of man as an active person in an everchanging series of contexts, are employed. Concepts such as plots, reinforcement contingencies, trust, belief systems, involvement, ambiguousness, and self-observation may be postulated in understanding how people come to believe in their own counterfactual reports and to convince others of their credibility. Recent research on source amnesia, disrupted retrieval, and breachinig posthypnotic amnesia is also critically evaluated. The conclusion is reached that the data are not compelling and their int...
Carcinosarcoma of the Esophagus – Pattern of Recurrence

Carcinosarcoma of the esophagus is a rare malignant neoplasm, predominantly affecting men in their seventh decade of life. While presenting symptoms and anatomic location of squamous cell and carcinosarcoma of the esophagus are similar, the latter often presents as a large intraluminal polypoid mass on barium esophagram. The more favorable prognosis associated with carcinosarcoma versus other esophageal neoplasms has been attributed to early onset of symptoms, resulting in prompt diagnosis, and a lower propensity for tumor invasion. We report the case of an elderly woman presenting with dysphagia who was initially diagnosed with esophageal leyomyosarcoma. Final tumor pathology showed esophageal carcinosarcoma.
Turner syndrome from conception to birth: Fetal pathology studies

Abstract Turner syndrome is among the most common cytogenetic errors when assessed shortly after conception. However, some 95\28% of affected fetuses are miscarried for reasons that are not entirely clear. The majority of Turner syndrome miscarriages seem to occur during the embryonic period and their morphology has not been well characterized. A significant number are recognized either in midgestation by in utero ultrasonography or by the phenotypic appearance at the time of delivery. The phenotype includes marked hydrops, large and loculated hygromas of the neck, pleural effusions, and ascites. Other more subtle dysmor-phisms may also be apparent. Of 49 midgestation fetuses with the Turner phenotype that I have studied, 65% had coarctation of the aorta, 45% had bicuspid aortic valve, 41% had other vascular anomalies (33% left superior vena cava, 14% single umbilical artery), 22% had intracardiac anomalies (atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, endocardial cushion defect, aortic atresia), and 35% had renal anomalies (fusion, ectopia, duplication). Most specimens were severely macerated and confirmatory karyotypes were available for only 12. A number of conditions other than Turner syndrome may produce hydrops/hygromas; insofar as possible these diagnoses have been excluded from what is referred to here as phenotypic Turner syndrome.
BOUNDEDNESS OF BILINEAR OPERATORS WITH NONSMOOTH SYMBOLS

We announce the L p -boundedness of general bilinear operators asso- ciated to a symbol or multiplier which need not be smooth. We establish a general result for multipliers that are allowed to have singularities along the edges of a cone as well as possibly at its vertex. It thus unifies ealier results of Coifman- Meyer for smooth multipliers and ones, such the Bilinear Hilbert transform of Lacey-Thiele, where the multiplier is not smooth. 40A20
Mixed Model Line Balancing with Smoothed Station Assignments

The general practice in mixed model assembly line balancing is to assign work to stations in a manner that each station has an equal amount of work on a daily or shift basis. This paper shows how a modification to mixed model line balancing algorithms can be used so that the stations are loaded more consistently on a model by model basis as well. In addition, the modification now allows mixed model line balancing to become a plausible tool for batched assembly line processes. The procedure is general in nature and is applicable to most line balancing algorithms.
Studies on cardiac dimensions in intact unanesthetized man. V. Effects of nitroglycerin.

The effects on ventricular dimensions of intact, unanesthetized patients of isoproterenol, a drug that stimulates beta adrenergic receptors, and of methoxamine, an agent that stimulates alpha adrenergic receptors, were studied by means of a cineradiographic technic. The administration of isoproterenol to 13 patients consistently resulted in a decline in the end-systolic dimensions of both ventricles. A smaller and less consistent decrease in ventricular end-diastolic dimensions was noted. In contrast, the administration of methoxamine resulted in an increase of ventricular end-diastolic dimensions in all 10 patients studied. Left ventricular end-systolic dimensions increased during methoxamine infusion in the eight patients in whom the measurements were made, but changes in right ventricular end-systolic dimensions were inconsistent. The alterations in heart rate induced by isoproterenol and methoxamine could account only in part for the observed changes in ventricular dimensions. It is anticipated that the experimental approach used in this study, that is, the measurement of ventricular dimensions in intact, unanesthetized human subjects, will help to provide a more complete analysis of the action of drugs on the circulation of man.
Early initiation of low-dose aspirin for reduction in preeclampsia risk in high-risk women: a secondary analysis of the MFMU High-Risk Aspirin Study

Early initiation of low-dose aspirin for reduction in preeclampsia risk in high-risk women: a secondary analysis of the MFMU High-Risk Aspirin Study
Pathological disgust: In the thoughts, not the eye, of the beholder

There is now mounting evidence that disgust is critically involved in anxiety disorders. Despite the emphasis on irrational fear in understanding these disorders, there has been little investigation into the cognitive component of disgust. In this theoretical paper, a process to distinguish normal versus pathological disgust responding is proposed and its clinical implications considered. Similar to intrusive thoughts in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is the interpretation of a disgust reaction as personally meaningful or threatening that will lead to pathological disgust. Building upon the belief domains thought to contribute to OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Cognition Working Group [OCCWG], 1997) and the laws of sympathetic magic in normal disgust (Rozin & Nemeroff, 1990), it is suggested that beliefs about one's ability to cope with being contaminated, dirty, or disgusted may help predict avoidance and pathological disgust.
High-resolution numerical weather prediction (NWP) with data assimilation over Placentia Bay, Newfoundland

Placentia Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada contains numerous islands and shoals, and is a busy bay with large marine vessel traffic, fishers and small-craft users. Placentia Bay is second only to the Port of Vancouver in Canada in terms of the annual value of goods shipped. The SmartBay applied ocean observing system, an initiative of the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University, was created to enhance marine safety for the Placentia Bay user community, and to provide environmental information to improve the efficiency of marine operations in the region. SmartBay successes to date have relied on effective collection and distribution of meteorological and oceanographic information. A recent advance has included the assimilation of these data into ultra-high resolution wind and wave models. Key elements of the work for Placentia Bay have included: configuration of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) numerical weather prediction model at 2 km resolution; adaptation of the Environment Canada Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) Local Area Model (LAM), development of a 0.6 km grid resolution WaveWatch III (WW3) deep-water wave model; incorporation of detailed sea surface temperature (SST) analysis data into WRF's input; operational implementation of the Simulating WAves Nearshore (SWAN) shallow-water wave model at 0.5 km resolution; and implementing data assimilation within WRF. The paper focuses on the configuration, development and testing of the wind models, together with discussion of the data assimilation techniques employed and a comparison of results with met-ocean buoy measurements.
Conformationally constrained α‐helical peptide models for protein ion channels

Recently we described the design, synthesis, and characterization of some simple amphiphilic alpha-helical models for protein ion channels. These peptides, composed of only Leu and Ser residues, are hypothesized to form helical bundles capable of passing ions across phospholipid bilayers. In an effort to demonstrate that the peptides are, in fact, helical in their active ion-conducting state, the conformationally constrained amino acid, C alpha, C alpha-dimethylglycine (alpha-aminoisobutyric acid, Aib), was introduced simultaneously at three positions into one of the model peptides, H2N-(Leu-Ser-Leu-Leu-Leu-Ser-Leu)3-CONH2, giving H2N-(Leu-Ser-Leu-Aib-Leu-Ser-Leu)3-CONH2. Examination of a tetrameric model for the channel suggested that this substitution should have a minimal effect on conductance. CD spectroscopy of the Aib-modified and original peptide in phospholipid vesicles indicated that both were highly alpha-helical. Furthermore, the Aib-containing peptide formed proton channels nearly identical in conductance to the original peptide.