cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulated space weathering of Fe- and Mg-rich aqueously altered minerals using pulsed laser irradiation

Abstract Simulated space weathering experiments on volatile-rich carbonaceous chondrites (CCs) have resulted in contrasting spectral behaviors (e.g. reddening vs bluing). The aim of this work is to investigate the origin of these contrasting trends by simulating space weathering on a subset of minerals found in these meteorites. We use pulsed laser irradiation to simulate micrometeorite impacts on aqueously altered minerals and observe their spectral and physical evolution as a function of irradiation time. Irradiation of the mineral lizardite, a Mg-phyllosilicate, produces a small degree of reddening and darkening, but a pronounced reduction in band depths with increasing irradiation. In comparison, irradiation of an Fe-rich aqueously altered mineral assemblage composed of cronstedtite, pyrite and siderite, produces significant darkening and band depth suppression. The spectral slopes of the Fe-rich assemblage initially redden then become bluer with increasing irradiation time. Post-irradiation analyses of the Fe-rich assemblage using scanning and transmission electron microscopy reveal the presence of micron sized carbon-rich particles that contain notable fractions of nitrogen and oxygen. Radiative transfer modeling of the Fe-rich assemblage suggests that nanometer sized metallic iron (npFe0) particles result in the initial spectral reddening of the samples, but the increasing production of micron sized carbon particles (µpC) results in the subsequent spectral bluing. The presence of npFe0 and the possible catalytic nature of cronstedtite, an Fe-rich phyllosilicate, likely promotes the synthesis of these carbon-rich, organic-like compounds. These experiments indicate that space weathering processes may enable organic synthesis reactions on the surfaces of volatile-rich asteroids. Furthermore, Mg-rich and Fe-rich aqueously altered minerals are dominant at different phases of the aqueous alteration process. Thus, the contrasting spectral slope evolution between the Fe- and Mg-rich samples in these experiments may indicate that space weathering trends of volatile-rich asteroids have a compositional dependency that could be used to determine the aqueous histories of asteroid parent bodies.
Microsatellite markers for population studies of the salt marsh species Juncus roemerianus (Juncaceae).

Premise of the study: Juncus roemerianus (Juncaceae) is a foundational species and ecosystem engineer of salt marshes in the Gulf of Mexico. These ecosystems provide coastal flood attenuation, nurseries for important species, and other ecosystem services, but are experiencing significant decline. Nuclear microsatellite markers were developed for J. roemerianus to study genetic diversity and population structure for conservation and restoration efforts. Methods and Results: Illumina NextSeq high-throughput sequencing was used to develop a panel of 19 polymorphic microsatellite markers that were tested across individuals from three populations on the Gulf Coast. All markers were polymorphic, with observed and expected heterozygosities ranging from 0.212 to 0.828 and from 0.362 to 0.873, respectively. Allelic richness ranged from two to 13 alleles per locus with an average of 5.737. Conclusions: The 19 microsatellite markers are useful for population studies throughout the range of J. roemerianus. Three loci...
Dedication-Fifth Circuit Survey

During the period of July 1, 1984, to June 30, 1985, 3,456 appeals were filed and 1,984 were terminated on the merits in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Fourteen active judges decided the cases, assisted by five senior judges and a few visiting circuit judges and district judges sitting by designation. The active judges carried ninety-two percent of the total workload, and each active judge wrote an average of 134 decisions. The Fifth Circuit terminated on the merits more civil cases than any other circuit, and it did so with less reliance on the work of senior and visiting judges than any other circuit. While the court is more efficient and productive than in times past, there are dark clouds in the distance. The enormous increase in the sheer quantity of law, as well as its increasing complexity, continue to challenge courts. At the same time, practicing lawyers experience similar pressures as sanctions on parties and lawyers are being imposed with greater frequency. While specialists in one field can be informed by decisions in other fields, it is difficult to keep abreast of all the changes. Survey issues respond to this need and by their overview provide criticism and support, essential prerequisites to the never-ending kneading of the law.
Regional Differences in the Value of Statistical Life

The value of statistical life (VSL) is a measure of people’s willingness to trade off wealth for risk. With few exceptions, analysts apply uniform VSL estimates to consumer policy evaluations, regardless of the characteristics of the targeted population. Using the hedonic wage approach, this study examines regional differences in VSL in the USA, reflecting variations in wealth, demographics, and preferences across the states. Census division differences are discovered, with higher VSLs in richer divisions and lower VSLs in poorer divisions.
Ecological Identity: The Development and Assessment of a Measurement Scale:

Social scientists have increasingly turned their attention to the conceptualization and measurement of different facets of the self to better understand public concern for the environment. Despite significant progress in this area, theoretical and methodological issues remain that could impede further progress. This article addresses several of these issues by providing a conceptual framework that integrates key features from two major theories used to understand self-environment relations. The framework is then utilized within a multimethod research design that emphasized theoretical and methodological correspondence and precision to develop and assess a measure of ecological identity. The results provide solid evidence of the reliability and validity of the Ecological Identity Scale and the utility of the conceptual framework designed to support it. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that ecological identity influences a wide range of environmental behaviors both directly and indirectly via worldview...
Burn Trauma Acutely Increases the Respiratory Capacity and Function of Liver Mitochondria.

BACKGROUND A complete understanding of the role of the liver in burn-induced hypermetabolism is lacking. We investigated the acute effect of severe burn trauma on liver mitochondrial respiratory capacity and coupling control as well as the signaling events underlying these alterations. METHODS Male BALB/c mice (8-12 weeks) received full-thickness scald burns on ∼30% of the body surface. Liver tissue was harvested 24 h postinjury. Mitochondrial respiration was determined by high-resolution respirometry. Citrate synthase activity was determined as a proxy of mitochondrial density. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received full-thickness scald burns to ∼60% of the body surface. Serum was collected 24 h postinjury. HepG2 cells were cultured with serum-enriched media from either sham- or burn-treated rats. Protein levels were analyzed via western blot. RESULTS Mass-specific (P = 0.01) and mitochondrial-specific (P = 0.01) respiration coupled to ATP production significantly increased in the liver after burn. The respiratory control ratio for ADP (P = 0.04) and the mitochondrial flux control ratio (P = 0.03) were elevated in the liver of burned animals. Complex III and Complex IV protein abundance in the liver increased after burn by 17% and 14%, respectively. Exposure of HepG2 cells to serum from burned rats increased the pAMPKα:AMPKα ratio (P < 0.001) and levels of SIRT1 (P = 0.01), Nrf2 (P < 0.001), and PGC1α (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Severe burn trauma augments respiratory capacity and function of liver mitochondria, adaptations that augment ATP production. This response may be mediated by systemic factors that activate signaling proteins responsible for regulating cellular energy metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis.
Spectroscopic study of the charge density wave order in 2H-TaS2

We conduct Angle Resolved Photoemission Spectroscopy (ARPES) investigation on 2H -TaS 2 , a prototypical incommensurate Charge Density Wave (CDW) material. A comparative study of the low-energy electronic structures of 2H -TaS 2 and two other related compounds, 2H -TaSe 2 and 2H -NbSe 2 , identiﬁes several generic features of their CDW orders. Firstly, Fermi surface (FS) nesting alone doesn’t seem to give rise to the CDW instability in these compounds. Secondly, partial gapping of the underlying FS surface in the CDW state is common to each of these materials. Finally, the CDW energy gap, unlike the energy gap in a superconductor, is not symmetric with respect to the chemical potential.
Demonstraging the impact of rapid repeat passive microwave observations from the global hawk: Implications for future smallsat or GEO missions

Small satellites offer the capability to deploy constellations of instruments to monitor the time evolution of dynamic weather phenomenon through rapid repeat observations. There are several planned missions that employ passive microwave sensors to study precipitation and storm dynamics, including TEMPEST and TROPICS. Recently, the HAMSR sensor on the Global Hawk aircraft was used to acquire rapid repeat observations of tropical cyclones as a part of the 2016 NOAA SHOUT campaign. This paper describes these time resolved observations of the storm and offers perspectives for these future missions.
Prior systemic treatment increased the incidence of somatic mutations in metastatic breast cancer

Abstract Background Understanding the biology of breast cancer is important for guiding treatment strategies and revealing resistance mechanisms. Our objectives were to investigate the relationship between previous systemic therapy exposure and mutational spectrum in metastatic breast cancer and to identify clinicopathological factors associated with identified frequent somatic mutations. Methods Archival tissues of patients with metastatic breast cancer were subjected to hotspot molecular testing by next-generation sequencing. The variables that significantly differed (P Results A total of 922 patients were included in the analysis. In multivariate analysis, previous systemic treatment before molecular testing (N = 186) was associated with a significantly higher rate of TP53 and PIK3CA mutations compared with the lack of systemic treatment (P Conclusion Systemic treatment exposure is an independent risk factor for high rates of TP53 and PIK3CA mutation, which suggests the importance of testing samples after systemic therapy to accurately assess mutations. It is worth testing the gene profile when tumours become resistant to systemic treatments.
Harnessing Phenomenological Research to Facilitate Conscientização About Oppressive Lived Experience

This article illustrates how liberation psychology and phenomenological research can work in tandem to raise conscientizacao (critical consciousness) about unjust societal dynamics, mourn sociopoli...
Age, Socioeconomic Features, and Clinical Factors Predict Receipt of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Pancreatic Cancer

Age, socioeconomic features, and clinical factors predict receipt of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in pancreatic cancer
Solid-State Anaerobic Digestion for Waste Management and Biogas Production

Solid-state anaerobic digestion (SS-AD) is commonly used to treat feedstocks with high solid content such as municipal solid waste and lignocellulosic biomass. Compared to liquid state anaerobic digestion (LS-AD), SS-AD has multiple advantages including high organic loading, minimal digestate generated, and low energy requirement for heating. However, the main disadvantages limiting the efficiency of SS-AD are long solid retention time, incomplete mixing, and an accumulation of inhibitors. For a successful and efficient SS-AD, it is important to control operation parameters such as nutrient levels, C/N ratio, feedstock-to-inoculum ratio, pH, temperature, and mixing. Biogas production in SS-AD performance can be enhanced by feedstock pretreatment, co-digestion, and supplement of additives such as biochar. The aim of this chapter is to provide a comprehensive summary of the current development in SS-AD as an effective way for treating solid waste materials. Graphical Abstract.
Influence of Fe(II) on Arsenic(III) Oxidation by Birnessite in Diffusion-Limited Systems

Manganese(III/IV) oxides are naturally occurring oxidants of arsenic (As) and can transform the more mobile and toxic arsenite [As(III)] to the less mobile and less toxic arsenate [As(V)]. However,...
Position- and Polarization-Specific Waveguiding of Multi-Emissions in Single ZnO Nanorods

We examine multiphoton-produced optical signals waveguided through single ZnO nanorods (NRs) using a newly developed, scanning offset-emission hyperspectral microscopy (SOHM) technique. Specifically, we concurrently analyze waveguiding behaviors of sum-frequency generation (SFG), deep-trap emissions (DTE), and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) occurring in individual ZnO NRs. SOHM acquires spectrally-indexed and spatially-resolved intensity maps/spectra of waveguided light intensity while excitation/emission collection positions and light polarization are scanned. Hence, the powerful measurement capabilities of SOHM enable quantitative analyses of the different ZnO NR waveguiding behaviors specific to the multiphoton-generated emissions as a function of measurement position, light-matter interaction geometry, and the optical origin of the guided signal. We subsequently reveal the distinct waveguiding behaviors of single ZnO NRs pertaining to the SFG-, DTE-, and CARS-originated signals and discuss particularly attractive ZnO NR properties in CARS waveguiding.
Anesthesia and the Pregnant Surgical Patient

Thousands of pregnant surgical patients undergo regional or general anesthesia each year for nonobstetrical problems. The special considerations in the anesthetic management of both the mother and the fetus are discussed. There is no scientific evidence that a specific anesthetic agent or technique is more hazardous to the fetus than another, as long as maternal blood pressure and ventilation are maintained within normal limits.
Variable-Length Coding With Shared Incremental Redundancy: Design Methods and Examples

Variable-length (VL) coding with feedback is a commonly used technique that can approach point-to-point Shannon channel capacity with a significantly shorter average codeword length than fixed-length coding without feedback. This paper uses the inter-frame coding of Zeineddine and Mansour, originally introduced to address varying channel-state conditions in broadcast wireless communication, to approach capacity on point-to-point channels using VL codes without feedback. The per-symbol complexity is comparable to decoding the VL code with feedback (plus the additional complexity of a small peeling decoder amortized over many VL codes) and presents the opportunity for encoders and decoders that utilize massive parallel processing, where each VL decoder can process simultaneously. This paper provides an analytical framework and a design process for the degree distribution of the inter-frame code that allows the feedback-free system to achieve 96% or more of the throughput of the original VL code with feedback. As examples of VL codes, we consider non-binary (NB) low-density parity-check (LDPC), binary LDPC, and convolutional VL codes. The NB-LDPC VL code with an 8-bit CRC and an average codeword length of 336 bits achieves 85% of capacity with four rounds of ACK/NACK feedback. The proposed scheme using shared incremental redundancy without feedback achieves 97% of that performance or 83% of the channel capacity.
Associations of depressive symptoms with outcomes in patients implanted with left ventricular assist devices

Abstract Objective We examined characteristics of depressive symptoms in patients who received left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) to assess their effects on negative outcomes post-implantation. Methods We retrospectively identified 203 adults with pre-operative PHQ-9 scores who underwent LVAD placement as bridge to transplant (BTT) or destination therapy (DT). We analyzed effects of PHQ-9 total, somatic, and cognitive/affective scores and proportion of patients with clinical depression on all-cause mortality, rehospitalization, major bleeding, and neurologic events post-implantation, controlling for demographics and other medical comorbidities. Results Mean total PHQ-9 scores did not differ between 81 BTT and 122 DT patients (BTT 6.4 vs. DT 7.5, p = 0.12). A higher proportion of DT patients had clinical depression (BTT 22% vs. DT 39%, p = 0.015). Somatic symptoms accounted for three-quarters of total scores in both groups. PHQ-9 domains were not associated with negative outcomes post-implantation. Conclusion Depression severity did not differ based on implant strategy, but more DT patients had clinical depression. Somatic symptoms were the biggest contributor to depressive symptoms. Pre-implantation PHQ-9 scores were not associated with outcomes, possibly because depression was mild in both groups. Additional work is needed in LVAD patients to better characterize depressive symptoms and their unique effects on clinical course and well-being.
Sonogenetics for noninvasive and cellular-level neuromodulation in rodent brain

Sonogenetics, which uses ultrasound to noninvasively control cells genetically modified with ultrasound-sensitive ion channels, can be a powerful tool for investigating intact brain circuits. Here we show that TRPV1 is an ultrasound-sensitive ion channel that can modify the activity of TRPV1-expressing cells in vitro when exposing to focused ultrasound. We also show that focused ultrasound exposure at the mouse brain in vivo can selectively activate neurons that are genetically modified to express TRPV1. We demonstrate that precise manipulation of neural activity via TRPV1-based sonogenetics can be achieved by spatiotemporal control of ultrasound-induced heating. The focused ultrasound exposure is safe based on our inspection of neuronal integrity, apoptosis, and inflammation markers. This sonogenetic tool enables noninvasive, cell-type specific, spatiotemporally controlled modulation of mammalian brain activity.
Impact of delays in initiation of adjuvant endocrine therapy and survival among patients with breast cancer.

537Background: Time to adjuvant endocrine therapy concerns patients and clinicians, but its impact on overall survival is not clear. There are no population level studies that address this question...
Improving Amide Proton Transfer-Weighted MRI Reconstruction Using T2-Weighted Images

Current protocol of Amide Proton Transfer-weighted (APTw) imaging commonly starts with the acquisition of high-resolution T2-weighted (T2w) images followed by APTw imaging at particular geometry and locations (i.e. slice) determined by the acquired T2w images. Although many advanced MRI reconstruction methods have been proposed to accelerate MRI, existing methods for APTw MRI lacks the capability of taking advantage of structural information in the acquired T2w images for reconstruction. In this paper, we present a novel APTw image reconstruction framework that can accelerate APTw imaging by reconstructing APTw images directly from highly undersampled k-space data and corresponding T2w image at the same location. The proposed framework starts with a novel sparse representation-based slice matching algorithm that aims to find the matched T2w slice given only the undersampled APTw image. A Recurrent Feature Sharing Reconstruction network (RFS-Rec) is designed to utilize intermediate features extracted from the matched T2w image by a Convolutional Recurrent Neural Network (CRNN), so that the missing structural information can be incorporated into the undersampled APT raw image thus effectively improving the image quality of the reconstructed APTw image. We evaluate the proposed method on two real datasets consisting of brain data from rats and humans. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed RFS-Rec approach can outperform the state-of-the-art methods.
Machine Learning of Dislocation-Induced Stress Fields and Interaction Forces

In discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) simulations dislocation-induced stress fields and dislocation–dislocation interaction forces are typically evaluated using analytically described multiparameter continuous functions. The universal approximation theory guarantees the approximation of such functions by some machine learning (ML) techniques, which in turn can potentially help to accelerate DDD simulations. However, accurate machine approximation is as crucial as its acceleration. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing deep neural networks to predict dislocation-induced stress fields and dislocation–dislocation interaction forces. We also show that the trained network produces estimates that are in very good agreement with analytical solutions. This was only plausible by generating an enriched data repository to avoid bias in the training data. This work opens the door to further development of more optimized ML architectures that could lead to a more computationally efficient, yet accurate, approach to replace the generally inefficient analytical calculations of dislocation–dislocation interaction forces in DDD simulations.
The Dyadic Effects of Relationship Uncertainty on Relationship Maintenance and Damaging Behaviors

Guided by uncertainty reduction theory and the enduring dynamics model, we examined the dyadic effects of relationship uncertainty using data collected from 83 couples (n = 166) prior to the comple...
Individualized-thresholding Shear Wave Elastography combined with clinical factors improves specificity in discriminating breast masses.

Abstract Purpose To investigate the diagnostic role of new metrics, defined as individualized-thresholding of Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) parameters, in association with clinical factors (such as age, mammographic density, lesion size and depth) and the BI-RADS features in differentiating benign from malignant breast lesions. Methods Of 644 consecutive patients (median age, 55 years), prospectively referred for evaluation, 659 ultrasound detected breast lesions underwent SWE measurements. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the probability of malignancy. The area under the curve (AUC), optimal cutoff value, and the corresponding sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were determined. Results 265 of 659 (40.2%) masses were malignant. Using two Emean cutoffs, 69.6 kPa for large superficial lesions (size >10 mm, depth ≤5 mm) and 39.2 kPa for the rest, the overall specificity, sensitivity, PPV and NPV were 92.6%, 86.8%, 88.8% and 91.3%, respectively. Combining multiple factors, including Emean with two cutoffs, age and BI-RADS, the new ROC curve based on the malignancy probability calculation showed the highest AUC (0.954, 95% CI: 0.938–0.969). Using the optimal probability threshold of 0.514, the corresponding specificity, sensitivity, PPV and NPV were 92.9%, 89.1%, 89.4% and 92.7%, respectively. Conclusions The false-positive rate can be significantly reduced when applying two Emean cutoffs based on lesion size and depth. Moreover, the combination of age, Emean with two cutoffs and BI-RADS can further reduce the false negatives and false positives. Overall, this multifactorial analysis improves the specificity of ultrasound while maintaining a high sensitivity.
Votes and violence: Electoral vote share and international conflict in democratic states:

This article argues that the effect of a democratic leader’s electoral margin of victory on their conflict behaviour once in office is highly dependent upon the state’s institutional structure. I s...
Non-Harmonic Alternating Currents

Certain principles are presented for solving non-harmonic a-c. problems. Graphical methods are already well known for solving practically any problem, when currents and electromotive forces are sinusoidal, by vector diagrams in a plane. In certain special cases such diagrams give correct results when currents and electromotive forces are non-sinusoidal, but in general diagrams in more than two dimensions are necessary. A wide range of material, some of which has been published before in scattered places, is brought into relation; no single general solution seems attainable. A bibliography with 61 references is appended.
A Computational Model of Phosphene Appearance for Epiretinal Prostheses

Retinal neuroprostheses are the only FDA-approved treatment option for blinding degenerative diseases. A major outstanding challenge is to develop a computational model that can accurately predict the elicited visual percepts (phosphenes) across a wide range of electrical stimuli. Here we present a phenomenological model that predicts phosphene appearance as a function of stimulus amplitude, frequency, and pulse duration. The model uses a simulated map of nerve fiber bundles in the retina to produce phosphenes with accurate brightness, size, orientation, and elongation. We validate the model on psychophysical data from two independent studies, showing that it generalizes well to new data, even with different stimuli and on different electrodes. Whereas previous models focused on either spatial or temporal aspects of the elicited phosphenes in isolation, we describe a more comprehensive approach that is able to account for many reported visual effects. The model is designed to be flexible and extensible, and can be fit to data from a specific user. Overall this work is an important first step towards predicting visual outcomes in retinal prosthesis users across a wide range of stimuli.
Alterations in Intermediary Metabolism

Man is a meal-eater. During periods of food intake, energy consumption usually exceeds energy expenditure and the additional fuel is stored to be mobilized and utilized during the postabsorptive period. With the consumption of a mixed diet containing fat, carbohydrate, and protein, carbohydrate serves as the primary fuel and triglycerides are primarily stored as adipose tissue. The substance which mediates this response is insulin, although glucagon suppression may also contribute to substrate storage. Excess dietary carbohydrate may also be converted to depot fat if glycogen stores are full. Dietary protein contributes to the maintenance of body structure; the excess amino acids are oxidized in the liver and converted to urea. Protein is not primarily stored as a body fuel, but dietary nitrogen is utilized to rebuild deficits of body protein if they exist.
Admission control in YARN clusters based on dynamic resource reservation

Hadoop YARN is an open project developed by the Apache Software Foundation to provide a resource management framework for large scale parallel data processing. However, there exists a resource waiting deadlock under the Fair scheduler when the resource requisition of applications is beyond the amount that the cluster can provide. In such a case, the YARN system will be halted if all resources are occupied by ApplicationMasters, a special task of each job that negotiates resources for processing tasks and coordinates job execution. Therefore, we develop a new admission control mechanism which dynamically reserves resources for processing tasks in order to avoid resource waiting deadlocks and meanwhile obtain good performance. We implement and evaluate our new mechanism in Hadoop YARN v2.2.0. The experimental results show the effectiveness of this mechanism under MapReduce benchmarks.
Medium Distance GPS Measurements

In this chapter we discuss GPS geodesy at medium distances which in some ways is the most challenging. As indicated in Chapter 1, GPS can be considered a global geodetic positioning system providing nearly instantaneous position with 1–2 cm precision with respect to a consistent terrestrial reference frame. Nevertheless, as we shall see in this chapter, the relation between intersite distance and geodetic precision is still important, particularly for integer-cycle phase ambiguity resolution. Currently, the main sources of error at medium distances are due to tropospheric and ionospheric refraction of the GPS radio signals.
New oligidic production diet for Lygus hesperus Knight and L. lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois).

A new oligidic (undefined) diet for rearing Lygus hesperus Knight (Heteroptera: Miridae) and L. lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois) is described. The diet (referred to as Nl diet) is a semisolid slurry that accommodates the solid-to-liquid feeding habits of Lygus spp. The Nl diet consists of an “entomophage component” (cooked, whole chicken eggs, chicken egg yolks, sugar, and yeast) combined with plant components (soy bean flour, wheat germ, lima bean meal, and soy lecithin). Biological fitness estimates for L. hesperus indicated that mean biomass production per cage, adult wet and dry weights, survival to the adult stage, and egg production were significantly greater for the Nl diet than for the existing standard, Debolt (1982) diet. The ingredients in the Nl diet cost about ⅛ those in the Debolt diet, and preparation requires less than ½ of the labor. The cost of diet for production per 1000 eggs was approximately $0.004 compared to $0.04 for an equal number of eggs from Debolt diet. Recent work, started a...
The effect of chlorotrianisene as postpartum lactation suppression on blood coagulation factors

Coagulation changes and increased risk of thromboembolic disease may occur in association with estrogen administration. The puerperium is also a high-risk period for thromboembolism, and estrogen administration at this time may increase this risk. Patients with congenital deficiency of antithrombin III have recurrent venous thromboembolic disease, suggesting that low levels of this factor may be associated with "hypercoagulability" states. We studied 50 postpartum patients who received chlorotrianisene (Tace) or placebo for lactation suppression in a prospective, double-blind, randomized fashion. Antithrombin III values were significantly lower on the third day post partum in the treated group compared to the placebo group (p less than 0.05). In addition, our clinical data from a total of 99 patients support the previous evidence that estrogens delay rather than prevent breast engorgement. Thus, with questionable benefit and a possible increased thromboembolic risk, it would appear prudent to discontinue the practice of estrogen administration for lactation suppression.
Biosynthesis of the α Chains of Collagen Studied by Pulse-labeling in Culture

Abstract Cranial bone (calvaria) from newborn rats, cultured in the presence of β-aminopropionitrile to prevent cross-linking of the collagen, were pulse-labeled with radioactive glycine at 37°. Collagen was extracted with cold 1 m NaCl and purified to yield native collagen. The α1 and α2 chains were chromatographically separated and cleaved with cyanogen bromide, and the resulting peptides were separated and counted. For both the α1 and α2 chain, a plot of the relative specific activities of the cyanogen bromide peptides versus their positions in the chain showed a radioactive gradient, the gradient being steepest after the shortest pulse. The results indicate that the α chains of collagen, like other polypeptide chains, are synthesized as single chains by sequential amino acid addition from the amino-terminal end and not as short pieces which are later joined. From the data obtained it could be estimated that the average time required for completion of one α chain of about 1040 amino acids was approximately 4.8 min and was about equal for the two kinds of α chains. The synthesis time includes hydroxylation of proline and lysine and any other steps required to make a native collagen molecule.
Physics and Chemistry of the Solar Nebula

The solar system is thought to have begun in a flattened disk of gas and dust referred to traditionally as the solar nebula. Such a construct seems to be a natural product of the collapse of dense parts of giant molecular clouds, the vast star-forming regions that pepper the Milky Way and other galaxies. Gravitational, magnetic and thermal forces within the solar nebula forced a gradual evolution of mass toward the center (where the sun formed) and angular momentum (borne by a small fraction of the mass) toward the outer more distant regions of the disk. This evolution was accompanied by heating and a strong temperature contrast from the hot, inner regions to the cold, more remote parts of the disk. The resulting chemistry in the disk determined the initial distribution of organic matter in the planets; most of the reduced carbon species, in condensed form, were located beyond the asteroid belt (the ‘outer’ solar system). The Earth could have received much of its inventory of pre-biological material from comets and other icy fragments of the process of planetary formation in the outer solar system.
Transport of colloids in saturated porous media: A pore-scale observation of the size exclusion effect and colloid acceleration

[1] We present experimental evidence of the effect of colloid exclusion from areas of small aperture sizes, using direct observations at the pore-scale using a realistic micromodel of porous media. Four sizes of hydrophobic latex spheres in aqueous suspension, from 0.05 to 3 μm, were introduced into the micromodel at three different pressure gradients. We observed the frequency of occurrence of the size exclusion effect and the influence of relative size of pore throats and colloids (T/C ratio) and flow velocity. From our observations the smallest T/C ratio entered by these different colloids was 1.5. We also observed certain preferential pathways through the pore space for different colloid sizes, such that size exclusion eventually results in distinct pathways. These preferential paths become more important for larger colloids and for greater pressure gradients. Measured colloid velocities were 4–5.5 times greater than estimated pore water velocities. Acceleration factors (ratio of colloid to water velocity) increased for all colloid sizes with increasing pore-scale Pe. Smaller particles appeared to travel along faster streamlines in pore throats, while larger particles travel along with a number of streamlines, thus at a slightly lower velocity than the small colloids. At larger scales the acceleration factor is decreased owing to Brownian motion, adsorption, colloid and straining filtration, and other factors, but these pore-scale results shed light on the size exclusion effect and its role in determining early colloid breakthrough.
Atmospheric mercury exchange with a tallgrass prairie ecosystem housed in mesocosms.

Abstract This study focused on characterizing air–surface mercury Hg exchange for individual surfaces (soil, litter-covered soil and plant shoots) and ecosystem-level flux associated with tallgrass prairie ecosystems housed inside large mesocosms over three years. The major objectives of this project were to determine if individual surface fluxes could be combined to predict ecosystem-level exchange and if this low-Hg containing ecosystem was a net source or sink for atmospheric Hg. Data collected in the field were used to validate fluxes obtained in the mesocosm setting. Because of the controlled experimental design and ease of access to the mesocosms, data collected allowed for assessment of factors controlling flux and comparison of models developed for soil Hg flux versus environmental conditions at different temporal resolution (hourly, daily and monthly). Evaluation of hourly data showed that relationships between soil Hg flux and environmental conditions changed over time, and that there were interactions between parameters controlling exchange. Data analyses demonstrated that to estimate soil flux over broad temporal scales (e.g. annual flux) coarse-resolution data (monthly averages) are needed. Plant foliage was a sink for atmospheric Hg with uptake influenced by plant functional type and age. Individual system component fluxes (bare soil and plant) could not be directly combined to predict the measured whole system flux (soil, litter and plant). Emissions of Hg from vegetated and litter-covered soil were lower than fluxes from adjacent bare soil and the difference between the two was seasonally dependent and greatest when canopy coverage was greatest. Thus, an index of plant canopy development (canopy greenness) was used to model Hg flux from vegetated soil. Accounting for ecosystem Hg inputs (precipitation, direct plant uptake of atmospheric Hg) and modeled net exchange between litter-and-plant covered soils, the tallgrass prairie was found to be a net annual sink of atmospheric Hg.
Mechanism of U wave and polymorphic ventricular tachycardia in a canine tissue model of Andersen-Tawil syndrome.

Objective Andersen–Tawil syndrome (ATS) is a channelopathy affecting inward rectifier potassium I K1 with QT prolongation, large U waves, and frequent ventricular tachycardia (VT). Although ATS is clinically defined and genetically identified, its electrophysiological mechanism is still unclear, and thus, was the subject of the current study. Methods and results We replicated the major electrophysiological features of ATS with cesium chloride (CsCl, at I K1 blockade concentration of 5–10 mmol/l) in 23 isolated canine left ventricular tissues perfused arterially with Tyrode's solution having normal or low potassium concentrations, [K+]o. We mapped action potentials (APs) on the cut-exposed transmural surface of the wedges in control, after CsCl, and CsCl with 0.15 μmol/l isoproterenol (CsCl+ISP). CsCl delayed late phase 3 repolarization and prolonged the duration of the AP, more so during low [K+]o perfusion. Rapid pacing induced delayed afterdepolarizations (DADs) in all low [K+]o and in 71% of normal [K+]o preparations after CsCl treatment. Addition of ISP induced DADs in all preparations. DADs originated in mid-to-endocardium, and initiated VT after CsCl+ISP. Migration of DAD–VT foci resulted in multifocal VT. Alternating DADs at 2 foci resulted in bidirectional VT. There were more foci and longer durations of VT at low [K+]o than at normal [K+]o. Delayed late phase 3 repolarization of APs and DADs generated U waves. Verapamil abolished all DADs and VT. Conclusions CsCl blockade of I K1 produced a ventricular wedge model of ATS. Suppressing I K1 generated U waves by delaying late repolarization of APs and creating DADs, and promoted polymorphic VT by triggering DADs at multiple shifting sites.
Modelling regional waste water treatment systems

The economies of scale of waste water treatment plants favor regional systems. This paper presents a mathematical formulation of this problem, and suggests an algorithm for solution. Several case examples are shown.
Novel inhibitor discovery through virtual screening against multiple protein conformations generated via ligand-directed modeling: a maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase example.

Kinase targets have been demonstrated to undergo major conformational reorganization upon ligand binding. Such protein conformational plasticity remains a significant challenge in structure-based v...
Synthesis and Characterization of Dendrimer-Derived Supported Iridium Catalysts

The synthesis of Ir/γ-Al2O3 using the dendrimer metal nanocomposites (DMN) approach is reported. Fourth generation hydroxyl-terminated polyamidoamine dendrimer was complexed with Ir3+ in aqueous solution and the process monitored using ultraviolet−visible and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. No discernible reduction of Ir3+ to form zerovalent nanoparticles was observed after bubbling hydrogen or adding NaBH4 into the complex solution. Standard wet impregnation of the DMN precursors were used to prepare Ir/γ-Al2O3, which were compared with conventionally prepared samples. In situ transmission Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy during dendrimer thermal decomposition in different atmospheres and CO adsorption allowed for identification of catalyst activation treatments that expose the maximum metal surface area. The particle size distributions of these catalysts were investigated using high resolution transmission electron microscopy, revealing that all of the catalysts have small particle sizes (0.4−3 nm...
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair—Transosseous Equivalents

As attempts have been made to improve rotator cuff healing, transosseous equivalent repairs have garnered interest because they combine strong initial fixation with broad foot print coverage. A number of different suture configurations can be used to secure the rotator cuff repair. Results, particularly in large or massive tears, have been encouraging for the double-row technique. Areas for concern include disruption of the vascular supply to the healing tendon, increased cost and operating room time, and potentially higher risk for tuberosity fracture. Rotator cuff tendon healing is a complex interaction between biomechanical, biological, and patient factors. Although the technique and overall outcomes are still evolving, transosseous rotator cuff repair may offer improvements in the biomechanical stability and clinical outcomes of rotator cuff repairs.
The ethnology of information: Cultural learning through cooperative action research in a multinational firm

Abstract Business information systems traditionally focus on technical matters. This paper explores the creation and implementation of information systems that integrate organizational business, social, and cultural knowledge. By using an extended case study set in grounded theory, we document how one company used cooperative research to meet these goals. In particular, we show how such research permits the reformulation, modification, or rejection of working hypotheses from a theoretical academic through a practitioner level. The cooperative research systems were grounded in ethnography, participant observation, improvement cycles, and detailed work processes. The information systems were effective in both monocultural and multicultural environments.
Non-Exponential Nuclear Spin-Lattice Relaxation in the Solid Phases of EMC

Abstract Measurements of the proton spin-lattice relaxation time in the solid phases of ethyl-[p-(p-methoxybenzilidene)-amino]-cinnamate (EMC) are reported. A model for the non-exponential relaxation observed is discussed as well as mathematical technique for treating the experimental data. This model, based on the assumption of the coexistence of two non-interacting groups of indentical spins, was tested using a model liquid-solid system. Results of the measurements on EMC indicate that the two possible solid phases coexist at low temperatures and that a slow annealing takes place near room temperature. The dominant spin-lattice relaxation mechanism at low temperatures is determined to be a rotational motion with an activation energy of ∼ 2.3 kcal/mole.
Low Frequency NMR Polarimeter for Hyperpolarized Gases

Abstract An inexpensive and self-contained apparatus for pulsed NMR at 30–250 kHz is described. The intended application is monitoring of the spin polarization of rare gas nuclei in a laser-polarizing apparatus in fields of order 30 G. In addition, the device provides a convenient method for following the polarization decay during storage and transport. Some of the features are a flexible pulse generator, splitting of transmitter RF cycles by the RF gate, a Q switch, and a wide range of receiver gains.
GRAPHICAL ESTIMATION OF CROSS SECTIONS FROM FLUENCE‐RESPONSE DATA

— Light-induced absorbance changes have been studied by several investigators as a potential assay for the blue-light receptor pigments in numerous organisms. These studies involve a flavin-mediated photoreduction of a cytochrome. Here we consider several alternative models for the photochemical kinetics linking the flavin excitation to the cytochrome absorbance change. Straightforward approximations from these models form the basis of a simple graphical procedure which, when applied to fluence-response data, leads to an estimate of the quantum efficiency for the production of the absorbance change. Such estimates are helpful in evaluating the relevance of this spectrophotometric effect to the physiological responses. Efficiencies of order unity are indicated for results on Neurospora and corn compared to a much lower efficiency for a mycelial preparation of Phycomyces.
The morphology of the aromatic copolyester of poly(ethylene terephthalate) and 80 mol % of p‐acetoxybenzoic acid

The structure of the aromatic copolyester of poly(ethylene terephthalate) and 80 mol % of p-acetoxybenzoic acid was investigated by optical and electron microscopy, wide angle X-ray, and thermal analysis. The results of optical (LM) and electron microscopy (TEM and STEM) suggest the existence of ordered domains which appear as large lamellar thickness (∼200 A) as has been described earlier for single crystals of the pure hompolymer of p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA). However, the characteristic reversible endotherm at 330–360°C for PHBA could not be obtained. In isolated cases, the lamellar blocks retained their general dimensions up to 535°C whereas the surrounding matrix had degraded severely. An irreversible endotherm was observed at 303°C which suggested the presence of a higher degree of order than expected for a random copolymer. The irreversible nature of the endotherm is consistent with a transition from a semicrystalline structure to a liquid crystalline state. X-ray analysis with as received samples and thermally treated specimen provided additional support for more ordered regions.
Collaborative Home-Based Therapy (CHBT): A Culturally Responsive Model for Treating Children and Adolescents Involved in Child Protective Service Systems

Mental Health professionals are challenged with utilizing innovative treatment models to meet the needs of diverse communities. Enhancements in interventions have led to a reconceptualization of the role of mental health professionals, specifically, family therapists. This paper presents a collaborative, home-based model for working with children and adolescents involved in foster care. We begin by examining literature on home-based therapy. This review provides a framework to understand the need for a culturally responsive approach. A collaborative, home-based approach is presented along with unique issues and guidelines for practice. A clinical case is presented to illustrate implications for treatment.
Globalizing selectively: shared-memory efficiency with address-space separation

It has become common for MPI-based applications to run on shared-memory machines. However, MPI semantics do not allow leveraging shared memory fully for communication between processes from within the MPI library. This paper presents an approach that combines compiler transformations with a specialized runtime system to achieve zero-copy communication whenever possible by proving certain properties statically and globalizing data selectively by altering the allocation and deallocation of communication buffers. The runtime system provides dynamic optimization, when such proofs are not possible statically, by copying data only when there are write-write or read-write conflicts. We implemented a prototype compiler, using ROSE, and evaluated it on several benchmarks. Our system produces code that performs better than MPI in most cases and no worse than MPI, tuned for shared memory, in all cases.