cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ACTH-induced mitochondrial DBI receptor (MDR) and diazepam binding inhibitor (DBI) expression in adrenals of hypophysectomized rats is not cause-effect related to its immediate steroidogenic action

Abstract Diazepan binding inhibitor (DBI) is a 10-kDa polypeptide that is enriched in steroidogenic cells such as adrenocortical, Leydig, and glial cells. In these cells, DBI and some of its processing products bind to the mitochondrial DBI receptor (MDR), located on the outer mitochondrial membrane, and stimulate pregnenolone formation by facilitating cholesterol access to the inner mitochondrial membrane where the cytochrome P-450 side chain cleavage enzyme is located. To determine whether the ACTH-induced increase in adrenal steroidogenesis occurs via changes in DBI and MDR expression the adrenal content of DBI-like immunoreactivity (DBI-LI), the MDR density, and the expression of mRNAs encoding for DBI and MDR were studied in hypophysectomized rats treated with vehicle or ACTH. After 9 days from the hypophysectomy, the levels of DBI-like immunoreactivity (DBI-LI) and DBI-mRNA declined to approximately 20% of their normal value; in contrast MDR-density and MDR-mRNA levels were reduced by 50–60% and were associated to a similar decrease in the activity of type A monoamine oxidase, a marker for mitochondrial proteins. Prolonged administration of ACTH-R (ACTH in saline containing 16% gelatin, 15 U/kg/day, from day 7 after surgery) to hypophysectomized rats, completely restored DBI and MDR adrenal expression to values similar to those of sham-operated rats. Our results indicate that ACTH, probably acting at the transcriptional level, is required for the normal expression of DBI and MDR in adrenal cortex. Changes in DBI and MDR expression after ACTH administration were not temporally related to the immediate steroidogenesis induced by ACTH, and may reflect its long-term trophic action on adrenocortical cells.
The effect of electron beam and surface diffusion on the kinetics of adsorbed oxygen reacting with hydrogen on Ru(001)

Abstract Although electron beam induced depletion rates are not high for oxygen chemisorbed on Ru(001), they determine certain kinetic features of the titration of chemisorbed oxygen by H2; namely, the induction time and the rate at intermediate oxygen coverages. The e-beam induced effects were found to include both desorption and changes in the chemisorbed state of oxygen. At high coverage, the cross section for electron stimulated desorption (ESD) of oxygen is about 10-22 cm2. At about 700 K the diffusion of oxygen from the subsurface region and/or across the surface into the analysis zone becomes an important contributor to the AES oxygen signal. Repopulation by diffusion of an oxygen-depleted region occurs readily in the absence of the electron beam at temperatures above 700 K.
Human progesterone A-receptors can be synthesized intracellularly and are biologically functional

In order to investigate the origin and functional independence of the human progesterone receptor A binding protein, we have expressed a truncated human progesterone receptor cDNA in both gene transfer and in vitro translation assays. Proteins identical in size and antigenicity to the A-receptors found naturally in human progesterone target cells are synthesized from this cDNA that lacks the putative B receptor initiator methionine codon of the complete cDNA. The functional independence of A-receptors is suggested by their ability to bind hormone and to stimulate transcription from the progestin responsive mouse mammary tumor virus promoter.
Protein folding dynamics via quantification of kinematic energy landscape

We study folding dynamics of proteinlike sequences on a square lattice using a physical move set that exhausts all possible conformational changes. By analytically solving the master equation, we follow the time-dependent probabilities of occupancy of all 802 075 conformations of 16 mers over 7 orders of time span. We find that (i) folding rates of these proteinlike sequences of the same length can differ by 4 orders of magnitude, (ii) folding rates of sequences of the same conformation can differ by a factor of 190, and (iii) parameters of the native structures, designability, and thermodynamic properties are weak predictors of the folding rates; rather, a basin analysis of the kinematic energy landscape defined by the moves can provide an excellent account of the observed folding rates.
Evaluation of HealosMP52 osteoinductive bone graft for instrumented lumbar intertransverse process fusion in sheep.

Study Design. HealosMP52 was evaluated in a sheep model of instrumented lumbar intertransverse process spine fusion and compared to autogenous bone graft. Objectives. To determine the long-term efficacy and safety of HealosMP52 as a bone graft substitute in posterolateral instrumented spinal fusion. Summary of Background Data. Although the standard intertransverse fusion method employs autogenous iliac crest bone, autograft has certain limitations. HealosMP52, an osteoinductive bone graft material, can facilitate noninstrumented posterolateral spine fusion in rabbits and nonhuman primates, but the long-term outcome of such fusions has not been evaluated. Methods. Eleven skeletally mature, female sheep were instrumented with pedicle screws and rods at L2–L3 and L5–L6. Each animal was treated with autograft bone at one fusion level and HealosMP52 at the other. At 6 and 12 months after surgery, bone formation was measured on contact microradiographs and by backscattered electron imaging. Bone core biopsies taken from 6-month and 12-month specimens were evaluated histologically for pathology indicative of osteosarcoma. Results. Grossly, all autograft- and HealosMP52-treated levels showed stable fusions at 6 and 12 months. HealosMP52 and autograft treatments resulted in equivalent mean percent bone volumes within fusion bodies; similar values were observed at 6 and 12 months. Fusion bodies contained cortical and trabecular bone with osteoid seams and fatty marrow, and fusion masses showed maturation from 6 to 12 months. HealosMP52 treatment was not associated with implant migration, ectopic bone formation, or pathologic abnormality. No histologic evidence of osteosarcoma was seen on bone core biopsies. Conclusions. This long-term assessment of the use of HealosMP52 in posterolateral instrumented spine fusion indicates that HealosMP52 possesses safe and efficacious bone grafting properties and can potentially serve as anosteoinductive alternative to autograft bone.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of a Palmtop Computer-Delivered Treatment for Smoking Relapse Prevention Among Women

Relapse is the rule rather than the exception among smokers attempting to quit, and compared to men, women may have higher relapse rates. The current study was a randomized clinical trial testing a palmtop computer-delivered treatment for smoking relapse prevention among women. The intervention was individualized based on key theoretical constructs that were measured using ecological momentary assessment (EMA). All participants (N=302) received standard smoking cessation treatment consisting of nicotine replacement therapy and group counseling, and completed EMA procedures for one week after quitting. At the completion of the group counseling sessions and EMA procedures, participants were randomized to either computer-delivered treatment (CDT) or no further computer-delivered treatment or assessment (EMA-Only). CDT participants received a palmtop computer-delivered relapse prevention treatment for one additional month. CDT did not improve abstinence rates relative to EMA-Only. Process analyses suggested that heavier smokers were more likely to use CDT and that greater use among CDT participants may be associated with more positive outcomes. The rapid pace of technological advances in mobile computer technology and the ubiquity of such devices provide a novel platform for developing new and potentially innovative treatments. However, the current study did not demonstrate the efficacy of such technology in improving treatment outcomes.
Allochthonous salt, structure and stratigraphy of the north-eastern Gulf of Mexico. Part II: Structure

Abstract The kinematic evolution of allochthonous salt in the north-eastern Gulf of Mexico proceeds in three stages. (1) Since its middle Jurassic deposition, the Louann Salt was loaded by sediments causing episodic basinward movement of salt, ultimately leading to large concentrations of salt masses in a slope environment by the end of the Lower Cretaceous. (2) A regime of starved sedimentation during Late Cretaceous and Early Oligocene is responsible for the stabilization of these early salt accumulations. (3) With renewed rapid accumulation of sediments, during the Neogene and Pliocene, extensive allochthonous salt tongues and sheets formed by gravity spreading within the younger sediments of the slope. Autochthonous salt, allochthonous salt and detached allochthonous salt are typical stages of evolution. Major down to the basin growth faults separate allochthonous salt sheets from their original feeder stocks. Extension along down to the basin master growth faults is compensated mainly by salt withdrawal and partly by basinward shortening.
X-ray lithography at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory☆

Abstract A dedicated X-ray lithography system has been developed on beam line III-4 at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (SSRL). The research program at SSRL includes studies of the spectral sensitivity of X-ray resists, mask characterization, and the applications of novel X-ray optics. The facilities available for this work and recent results in these areas will be described.
Small (< or = 3 cm) renal masses: correlation of spiral CT features and pathologic findings.

We describe our 3-year experience using spiral CT in the evaluation of small renal masses in order to determine the usefulness of this technique for classifying the lesions and to correlate specific CT features with pathologic findings.We retrospectively analyzed spiral CT scans and results of pathologic examinations of surgically extirpated small (< or = 3 cm) renal masses in 35 patients. The masses included 27 renal cell carcinomas, two transitional cell carcinomas, one leiomyoma, one angiomyolipoma, and four benign cysts. Several imaging features, including attenuation, pattern of contrast enhancement, presence and type of calcification, cyst wall, and septation, were correlated with pathologic findings.Most renal cell carcinomas had a solid growth pattern (n = 19), had attenuation values on unenhanced scans of 20 H or greater (n = 26), and had attenuation values that increased by at least 10 H with contrast enhancement (n = 26). Only three renal cell carcinomas were mostly cystic on pathologic examina...
Austerity Measures in Developing Countries: Public Expenditure Trends and the Risks to Children and Women

This study examines how austerity measures may have adversely affected children and women in a sample of 128 developing countries in 2012. It relies on International Monetary Fund (IMF) fiscal projections and IMF country reports to gauge how social assistance and other public spending decisions have evolved since the start of the global economic crisis. The study finds that most developing countries boosted total expenditures during the first phase of the crisis (2008–09); but beginning in 2010, budget contraction became widespread, with ninety-one governments cutting overall spending in 2012. Moreover, the data suggest that nearly one-quarter of developing countries underwent excessive fiscal contraction, defined as cutting expenditures below pre-crisis levels. Governments considered four main options to achieve fiscal consolidation – wage bill cuts/caps, phasing out subsidies, further targeting social safety nets, and reforming old-age pensions – each of which would be likely to have a disproportionatel...
Population structure and marker-trait association analysis of the US peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) mini-core collection.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most important oilseed and nutritional crops in the world. To efficiently utilize the germplasm collection, a peanut mini-core containing 112 accessions was established in the United States. To determine the population structure and its impact on marker–trait association, this mini-core collection was assessed by genotyping 94 accessions with 81 SSR markers and two functional SNP markers from fatty acid desaturase 2 (FAD2). Seed quality traits (including oil content, fatty acid composition, flavonoids, and resveratrol) were obtained through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gas chromatography (GC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Genetic diversity and population structure analysis identified four major subpopulations that are related to four botanical varieties. Model comparison with different levels of population structure and kinship control was conducted for each trait and association analyses with the selected models verified that the functional SNP from the FAD2A gene is significantly associated with oleic acid (C18:1), linoleic acid (C18:2), and oleic-to-linoleic (O/L) ratio across this diverse collection. Even though the allele distribution of FAD2A was structured among the four subpopulations, the effect of FAD2A gene remained significant after controlling population structure and had a likelihood-ratio-based R2 (RLR2) value of 0.05 (oleic acid), 0.09 (linoleic acid), and 0.07 (O/L ratio) because the FAD2A alleles were not completely fixed within subpopulations. Our genetic analysis demonstrated that this peanut mini-core panel is suitable for association mapping. Phenotypic characterization for seed quality traits and association testing of the functional SNP from FAD2A gene provided information for further breeding and genetic research.
When is the graph product of hyperbolic groups hyperbolic

Given a finite simplicial graph ℊ, and an assignment of groups to the verticles of ℊ, the graph product is the free product of the vertex groups modulo relations implying that adjacent vertex groups commute. We use Gromov's link criteria for cubical complexes and techniques of Davis and Moussang to study the curvature of graph products of groups. By constructing a CAT(−1) cubical complex, it is shown that the graph product of word hyperbolic groups is itself word hyperbolic if and only if the full subgraph ℱℊ in ℊ, generated by vertices whose associated groups are finite, satisfies three specific criteria. The construction shows that arbitrary graph products of finite groups are Bridson groups.
Customer-to-customer exchange: Its MOA antecedents and its impact on value creation and loyalty

Value creation through customer-to-customer exchange occurs when the perceived benefits of a company’s offering are increased as a result of customers’ interaction with one another. C2C exchange exists in a wide variety of service environments, both online and face-to-face. Drawing on the motivation, opportunity, and ability (MOA) framework, this research presents and tests a theoretical model that examines antecedents and outcomes of C2C exchange in the context of face-to-face networking behaviors at professional association meetings. Data were obtained from a survey of conference attendees, and the hypotheses were tested using moderated regression and path analysis. The results show a three-way interaction effect among the MOA factors, that the MOA model does predict the level of C2C exchange, and that C2C exchange does enhance service value perceptions and customer loyalty intentions.
Salt Exclusion in Silane-Laced Epoxy Coatings

The corrosion protection mechanism of a one-step silane-laced epoxy coating system was investigated using neutron reflectivity. Pure epoxy and silane-laced epoxy films were examined at equilibrium with saturated NaCl water solution. The results demonstrate that the addition of silane introduces a salt-exclusion effect to epoxy coating. Specifically, the addition of silane densifies the epoxy network, which leads to exclusion of hydrated salt ions by a size effect. The effect is particularly significant at the metal-coating interface. Exclusion of ions improves the corrosion resistance, particularly for metals susceptible to pitting.
Late Quaternary Insects of Rancho La Brea and McKittrick, California

Asphalt-impregnated sediments at Rancho La Brea (Los Angeles County) and McKittrick (Kern County) in California provide a rich Quaternary insect record. Ages of various sites at Rancho La Brea range from more than 40,000 14C yr B.P. to modern. McKittrick insects studied by W. D. Pierce are not contemporaneous with the late Pleistocene vertebrate fauna, but are only about 7000 14C yr old. The major paleoecological groupings are: (1) ground dwellers, (2) aquatics. (3) scavengers, and (4) miscellaneous. Contrary to conclusions of earlier authors, most specimens represent modern species. Only two apparent terminal Pleistocene extinctions are recognized. both dung beetles (Scarabaeidae).
On the Deep Lying Terms in Two- and Three-Valence Electron System Spectra*

In considering the numerical magnitudes of the frequencies emitted in transitions between the deepest lying terms in atomic spectra, it appears (1) that for elements in the first two horizontal rows of the periodic table (a) the lowest PP′ multiplet in three-valence-electron system spectra is near in frequency to the first line in the principal singlet series of the spectrum of the once more ionized atom, (b) the lowest PP′ multiplet in two-valence-electron system spectra is near to the first line of the principal series, both of singlets in that system and of doublets in the spectrum of the once more ionized system; (2) that the lowest PP′ multiplet in the arc spectra of calcium, barium and strontium is near to the frequency difference of the lowest S and D terms, both of singlets in the arc spectrum and of doublets in the once ionized spectrum.These relations are analyzed from the view point of atomic structure. Essentially they mean that the energy difference between the two lowest states in the above mentioned spectra is little affected by the absence of a second valence electron or by its presence in either the normal or the metastable lowest state.By aid of these relations the following new combinations have been located: In Zn I 43P − 43P′ and 43P − 41D″; in Hg I, 63P − 63P′; in Mg I, 33P − 31D″; in Hg II, 62P−62S in Al I, 32P − x.
Bone microdamage from creep in vivo

All bone matrix damage observed in creep-damaged bones was either diffuse damage (Diff.Dx) comprised of patches of sublamellar- sized cracks) or linear-appearing microcracks. Accordingly, measurements of diffuse damage area and linear microcracks number density were performed as described elsewhere [1].
A synergetic control approach to grid-connected, wind-turbine doubly-fed induction generators

The doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) with back-to-back four-quadrant power converters between the rotor side and the stator side can realize an efficient and flexible conversion from wind energy to electric energy. Based on the stator-flux orientation control strategy, this paper aims to introduce a synergetic control synthesis method and applies this method in the control of the DFIGpsilas rotor-side power converter. Synergetic control synthesis of the rotor-side power converter is based on a simplified induction machine model. The dynamic characteristics of the synergetic controller are studied in a typical grid-connected wind energy conversion system. Four typical scenarios are studied, where the active power setpoint, reactive power setpoint, grid voltage and input wind mechanical power undergo a step change respectively. Comparing the dynamic responses under the synergetic control law to those under the PI control, this paper concludes that the synergetic control has better dynamic performance than the traditional PI control in regulating the output power of the doubly-fed induction generator in the grid-connected mode by controlling the rotor-side voltage source converter.
Micromachined acoustic resonant mass sensor

This paper describes a highly sensitive, film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR) mass sensor (built on a micromachined silicon-nitride diaphragm with a piezoelectric thin film and Al electrodes) that can operate in vapor and liquid. The sensitivity of the device to mass change on its surface has been investigated by having various thicknesses of silicon-nitride support layer and also of Al layer. The sensor is measured to have a mass sensitivity of 726 cm/sup 2//g, which is about 50 times that of a typical quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). In vapor, the sensor (operating at around 1 GHz and having a relatively high quality (Q) factor of 200-300) shows a minimum detectable frequency shift of about 400 Hz, which corresponds to a mass change of 10/sup -9/ g/cm/sup 2/ on the sensor surface, comparable with that detectable by a QCM. In liquid, though the Q usually drops more than an order of magnitude, we obtain a Q of 40 at 2 GHz by using a second harmonic resonance of the resonator. And with the Q, a minimum 5 ppm resonant frequency shift can be detected, which corresponds to 10/sup -8/ g/cm/sup 2/ change on the sensor surface.
The older driver.

Older drivers constitute the most rapidly growing segment of the driving population in number of drivers licensed, miles driven, and proportion of the driving population. Yet the highway transportation system has not been designed for these drivers. This lack of fit is reflected in the accelerating rate of crashes per mile driven experienced by older drivers beginning around age 55. Furthermore, older persons are more vulnerable to injury once a crash occurs and as a group experience a higher fatality rate. The increasing proportion of our population consisting of older persons, in conjunction with a relative decrease in the young adult population, underscores the need for research to develop a greater understanding of the needs and capabilities of this age group and to develop system improvements that will enable as many older persons as possible to continue to meet their own transportation needs safely.
NATURAL HISTORY OF GLENOGNATHA EMERTONI (ARANEAE, TETRAGNATHIDAE): MATING BEHAVIOR AND SPERM RELEASE IN A HAPLOGYNE

Glenognatha emertoni (Simon 1887) is a small haplogyne orb-weaver collected near streams and dry streambeds in southern Arizona whose habits are unknown. Field observations revealed that G. emertoni are commonly found in vegetation overhanging streams and, more rarely, under stream- side rocks. Mating pairs were observed on or near adult female webs. Males lack mate-guarding behavior and leave the female immediately after copulation. To examine mating behavior in a controlled setting, juveniles and adults were collected from the field and maintained in the lab. Matings were arranged between wild-caught adults and also between laboratory-reared virgins in order to describe mating behavior and sperm release during copulation. Unlike most other orb-weaving spiders studied, the number of sperm released and overall duration of copulation are not influenced by female mating history in G. emertoni. Male G. emertoni release equivalent numbers of sperm to virgin and non-virgin females. Given this pattern of sperm release and the lack of mate-guarding behavior by males, sperm competition should be intense in this species. Based only on the numbers of sperm released by each male in the study, doubly-mated females would be expected to produce egg sacs of mixed paternity, if all else were equal.
General optimal design method for series-series resonant tank in loosely-coupled wireless power transfer applications

Conventionally in wireless power transfer applications, symmetrical resonant tank (SRT) type, which employs an identical physical geometry for transmitter coil (Tx) and receiver coil (Rx), has been popular because it minimizes the leakage flux. However, for portable applications it is desirable to minimize size and weight of Rx, while Tx should provide stronger and more uniform magnetic field. Consequently, asymmetrical resonant tank (ART) type, which employs different physical geometries for Tx and Rx, is quite attractive. Compared to SRT type, ART type exhibits higher complexity in analysis and design optimization, because self-inductances of Tx and Rx can be either equal or largely different. Therefore, derivation of analytical design equations for ART type calls for a general analysis. In this paper, general frequency domain characteristics of series-series (SS) resonant tank are analyzed to derive general analytical equations for determining various quantities of interest. Based on the assumption of loosely-coupled condition, analytical design equations are presented. An optimal design method is then proposed and validated. In this paper, an asymmetrical SS resonant tank is optimized using the proposed design method. It is shown in both simulation and experiment that the optimized resonant tank exhibits approximately equal values for voltage gain and current gain under magnetic coupling variation at a desirably fixed frequency. It is also shown that under this condition circulating current gain is approximately at its absolute minimum, which translates in reduced conduction losses. Therefore, an optimal compromise between power delivery robustness and coil-to-coil efficiency can be achieved.
Contemporary Scholarship on Fatherhood Culture, Identity, and Conduct

The principal aim in this thematic essay is to identify and discuss three central foci that have influenced the direction of contemporary sociological scholarship on fatherhood issues in North America. These foci include commentaries on the meaning and changing nature of cultural images of fatherhood, efforts to conceptualize and study the social psychological dimensions of fatherhood, and empirical studies that examine resident and nonresident fathers' conduct as it pertains to their children. Discussion of the linkages between these foci is informed by symbolic interactionism and identity theory. The article concludes with suggested avenues for future theory development, research, and social policy relevant to fathers.
Reading Skill and Memory for Spoken and Written Discourse

One aspect of the relationship between reading comprehension and language comprehension was investigated through the comparison of listening and reading for two memory tasks differing in the extent to which organization appears to be required. Fifth grade children matched on IQ but representing two levels of reading achievement heard and read passages and were tested by literal questions and paraphrase recall. Performance of the skilled readers exceeded that of less-skilled readers by equal amounts for reading and listening and by equal amounts for paraphrase recall and literal question answering. The results suggest (a) that reading comprehension and listening comprehension depend on the same general language processing skills and that (b) localized processing skills, i.e., encoding more immediate language units, rather than global organizational skills, i.e., organizing and integrating larger language units into meaningful relationships, are a major source of individual differences in language processing.
Stress burden and the lifetime incidence of psychiatric disorder in young adults: racial and ethnic contrasts.

Background With the exception of studies of individual traumatic events, the significance of stress exposure in psychiatric disorder previously has not been effectively examined. Objective To address the hypothesis that accumulated adversity represents an important risk factor for the subsequent onset of depressive and anxiety disorders. Design A community-based study of psychiatric and substance use disorders among a large, ethnically diverse cohort representative of young adults in South Florida. Adversity was estimated with a count of major and potentially traumatic events experienced during one's lifetime and prior to the onset of disorder. Setting Most interviews took place in the homes of participants, with 30% conducted by telephone. Participants We obtained a random sample of individuals aged 18 to 23 years from a previously studied representative sample of young adolescents. Because participants in the prior study were predominantly boys, a supplementary sample of girls was randomly obtained from the early-adolescence school class rosters. A total of 1803 interviews were completed, representing a success rate of 70.1%. Main Outcome Measures Depressive and anxiety disorders were assessed through computer-assisted personal interviews using the DSM-IV version of the Michigan Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Results Level of lifetime exposure to adversity was found to be associated with an increased risk of subsequent onset of depressive and/or anxiety disorder. This association remained clearly observable when childhood conduct disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, prior substance dependence, and posttraumatic stress disorder were held constant and when the possibility of state dependence effects was considered. Conclusion Evidence suggests that high levels of lifetime exposure to adversity are causally implicated in the onset of depressive and anxiety disorders.
Electronic ballast for fluorescent lamps

A frequency-domain analysis is given for a Class D voltage-switching power inverter with a load resistance connected in parallel with a resonant capacitor. Using the fundamental component approximation, design equations are derived to provide easy-to-use design tools. The inverter is inherently short-circuit-proof, but cannot operate safely with an open circuit at the resonant frequency. Safe operation with an open circuit can be achieved if the operating frequency is sufficiently lower or higher than the resonant frequency. Experimental results are given for two F40 fluorescent lamps connected in series, using MTP5N40 MOSFETs. The operating frequency was 50 kHz at full power and 70 kHz at 20% of full power. At full power, the efficiency of the Class D inverter was 95.6% and the efficiency of the power factor corrector was 93%. The overall efficiency of the ballast was 89.4% at full power. >
Supply rates of natural U‐Th series radionuclides from aquifer solids into groundwater

Supply rates of {sup 224}Ra and {sup 212}Pb from zircon and monazite grains to the aqueous phase are experimentally determined by dispersing these minerals in 1N nitric acid and PRL (Physical Research Laboratory) groundwater. In nitric acid medium, recoiled {sup 224}Ra and {sup 212}Pb behave conservatively and are not removed by solid surfaces. However, in groundwater, {sup 212}Pb is removed from the aqueous phase. A model relating the actual supply ratio of {sup 212}Pb/{sup 224}Ra, the measured activities of {sup 224}Ra and {sup 212}Pb in the leachates at different times of contact and the first order removal rate constant of {sup 212}Pb is developed. At steady state, the supply ratio of {sup 212}Pb/{sup 224}Ra in the nitric acid from zircon and in groundwater from monazite is evaluated to be a unique value 2.3{+-}0.3 which agrees with the model predicted value of 2.67 based on alpha recoil supply of the nuclides and their precursors. The residence time of {sup 212}Pb in groundwater, with respect to its first order removal, is estimated to be of the order of 39 minutes. 10 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.
Detection of soft-tissue sarcoma recurrence: Added value of functional MR imaging techniques at 3.0 T

Dynamic contrast material–enhanced MR imaging and quantitative diffusion-weighted MR imaging with apparent diffusion coefficient mapping may provide added value for the detection of recurrent disease following the resection of a soft-tissue sarcoma.
Mending the disjunction between District Court and International Trade Commission patent actions

The Patent Act's safe harbour for preparing FDA submissions also operates as a defence in USITC Section 337 actions.
Orchestrating the execution of stream programs on multicore platforms

While multicore hardware has become ubiquitous, explicitly parallel programming models and compiler techniques for exploiting parallelism on these systems have noticeably lagged behind. Stream programming is one model that has wide applicability in the multimedia, graphics, and signal processing domains. Streaming models execute as a set of independent actors that explicitly communicate data through channels. This paper presents a compiler technique for planning and orchestrating the execution of streaming applications on multicore platforms. An integrated unfolding and partitioning step based on integer linear programming is presented that unfolds data parallel actors as needed and maximally packs actors onto cores. Next, the actors are assigned to pipeline stages in such a way that all communication is maximally overlapped with computation on the cores. To facilitate experimentation, a generalized code generation template for mapping the software pipeline onto the Cell architecture is presented. For a range of streaming applications, a geometric mean speedup of 14.7x is achieved on a 16-core Cell platform compared to a single core.
Hypoxic respiratory failure due to phrenic nerve palsy from an interscalene brachial plexus block and previously asymptomatic pulmonary embolism

Interscalene brachial plexus block is a common regional anesthesia method for upper extremity surgery. A rare complication of this procedure is dyspnea secondary to phrenic nerve palsy and hemidiaphragm paralysis. In our case, this rare complication diagnosed using ultrasound led to the diagnosis of a previously asymptomatic pulmonary embolism. The use of ultrasonography was key in the diagnosis of the iatrogenic nerve palsy and was part of a multiple-modality diagnostic workup for her hypoxemia.
Soft error rate reduction using redundancy addition and removal

Due to current technology scaling trends such as shrinking feature sizes and reducing supply voltages, circuit reliability has become more susceptible to radiation-induced transient faults (soft errors). Soft errors, which have been a great concern in memories, are now a main factor in reliability degradation of logic circuits. In this paper, we propose a novel framework based on redundancy addition and removal (RAR) for soft error rate (SER) reduction. Several metrics and constraints are introduced to guide our proposed framework towards SER reduction in an efficient manner. Experimental results show that up to 70% reduction in output failure probability can be achieved with relatively low area overhead.
Voiding Function in Women with Orthotopic Neobladders

Orthotopic neobladders (ONBs) allow replication of continent voiding per urethra, and many surgeons advocate ONB as the preferred diversion type. Women are less likely to undergo ONB than men, possibly due to higher rates of postoperative voiding dysfunction. A literature review was performed, and 19 articles were identified that reported urinary function following ONB in women. Daytime and nighttime continence ranged from 57 to 100 % and 45 to 92 %, respectively. Rates of hypercontinence requiring clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) varied between 0 and 63 %. Techniques to spare pelvic nerves and preserve internal support may help prevent incontinence and hypercontinence. The wide variation in reported rates of voiding dysfunction may be secondary to differences in surgical technique or patient factors. However, there is significant heterogeneity in the methods used to measure, define, and report urinary outcomes, making comparison between studies challenging. There is ample opportunity for prospective research on functional outcomes in women with ONB.
Thermally driven spin torques in layered magnetic insulators

Thermally driven spin-transfer torques have recently been reported in electrically insulating $\mathrm{ferromagnet}|\mathrm{normal}$-metal heterostructures. In this paper, we propose two physically distinct mechanisms for such torques. The first is a local effect: out-of-equilibrium, thermally activated magnons in the ferromagnet, driven by a spin Seebeck effect, exert a torque on the magnetization via magnon-magnon scattering with coherent dynamics. The second is a nonlocal effect which requires an additional magnetic layer to provide the symmetry breaking necessary to realize a thermal torque. The simplest structure in which to induce a nonlocal thermal torque is a spin valve composed of two insulating magnets separated by a normal metal spacer; there, a thermal flux generates a pure spin current through the spin valve, which results in a torque when the magnetizations of the layers are misaligned.
The Kodály and Rajkó Methods: Voices, Instruments, Ethnicity, and the Globalization of Hungarian Music Education in the Twentieth Century

Music is one of the fields in which Hungary has distinguished itself around the world, and music education is an arena in which Hungarian methods have had a profound impact. The basic principles of Hungarian music-pedagogical methods, developed by Zoltan Kodaly (1882–1967) and his disciples and thus known as the Kodaly method, are systematic instruction in sight-singing using “movable-do” solfege and rhythmic syllables, with the ideal of developing music literacy in all children through high-quality music, mainly classical and folk repertoire for choirs. Another type of well-known Hungarian music, so-called “Gypsy music,” is specifically denied legitimacy both in Kodaly’s writings and those of some of his students, for two reasons: much of it is primarily instrumental instead of vocal, and it is considered “bad.” Yet Romani (Gypsy) musicians from Hungary have also become famous internationally, some from quite a young age. The Rajko Ensemble, established in 1952 as the Gypsy Orchestra of the Young Communists’ League, brought Hungarian and Hungarian-Gypsy music to over a hundred countries over the years. Interviews with Rajko members, some conducted by the author and some previously published, reveal those musicians struggling to claim the legitimacy not only of their music but of their music pedagogy, implicitly comparing the Rajko method to the Kodaly method. After a brief discussion of the Kodaly method and its history, this essay gives some examples of how that method has dealt with talented Romani youth in Hungary; compares the Kodaly method to methods of teaching instrumental music in Roma communities and in the Rajko Ensemble; and considers how American ideals of multicultural education challenge some of Kodaly’s tenets.
Regulation of Nitrogen Fixation in Photosynthetic Bacteria

Nitrogen fixation by the photosynthetic bacteria was first noted by Kamen and Gest (1949). These workers also observed an inhibition of N2 uptake when ammonia was added to the cells (Kamen and Gest, 1949; Gest et al., 1950). Nitrogenase activity in crude extracts of R. rubrum exhibits unusual properties when compared to the properties of nitrogenase in extracts of other organisms: high magnesium concentration is required for optimal activity (Burns and Bulen, 1966) and low levels of manganese greatly stimulate activity (Ludden and Burris, 1976); the time course of activity in extracts is nonlinear (Munson and.Burris, 1969); the membrane fragments (chromatophores) were found to inhibit nitrogenase activity (Burns and Bulen, 1966). These observations were explained when it was discovered that the Fe protein of nitrogenase from Rhodospirilium rubrum is isolated in inactive form (Ludden and Burris, 1976) and that an oxygen labile, membrane bound activating enzyme was present in extracts (Ludden and Burris, 1976; Nordlund et al., 1977). The activating enzyme requires MgATP and free divalent metal (Guth and Burris, 1983). A covalently bound modifying group (MG) consisting of phosphate, pentose and adenine was found attached to the inactive form of the Fe protein (Ludden and Burris, 1978).
Impact of Control Availability on Perceived Comfort

Abstract Open plan offices are known for improving the interaction among occupants while risking their comfort. Traditionally considered to be caused by deprivation of privacy and safety, the discomfort is also recently attributed to occupants’ lost of control availability. According to some studies, improving perceived control could improve perceived comfort. However, few studies investigated the correlation with variations of control availability. An investigation is therefore presented in this paper that examines the impact of different levels of control availabilities’ on perceived thermal comfort, for which a potential gap of thermal neutrality was identified as the availability of control increased.
Epidemic Outbreak of Infectious Disease in Ganzi Prefecture,2004-2009

Objective To understand the characteristics of epidemic outbreak of infectious disease in Ganzi,and thus to provide references for reducing the occurrence of the aforementioned events.Methods Descriptive epidemiological method was adopted to analyze the data of outbreak of infectious disease in Ganzi from 2004 to 2009.Results Total 46 infectious disease outbreaks were reported in Ganzi during,including 1 887 cases and 6 deaths.Cases were reported in all the 16 counties except Daofu and Ganzi county.The top three high incidence diseases were respectively mumps,influenza and bacillary dysentery,accounting for 65.22% of the total outbreaks.The occurrence peaked in March and September and occupation distribution was mainly student,with a total number of 1 767,accounting for 94.54% of the total cases.Conclusion The students are the vulnerable population to outbreak of infectious disease in Ganzi from 2004 to 2009 and thus prevention measures in schools need to be further strengthened.
A Enhanced Activity Measurement of ~3H

Spectrum method for activity measurement of 3H with large volume internal gas proportional counter is studied in our work.Combined with LLC method,the MDC of activity measurement instruments is cut down.Furthermore,analysis of experimental data of this method is also studied.With this method,experimental work and data analysis can be decreased.This research provides an enhanced activity measurement of radioactive gas,which is significant for improving activity measurement instruments of radioactive gas.
Study on Li-Ion Battery Management System of Energy Storage

Li-ion batteries are widely utilized in the high voltage and large capacity energy storage because of its good performance. Therefore,the battery management system of Liion batteries plays a key role in prolonging battery's cycle life and guaranteeing the safety operation of the system. Based on characteristics of the Li-ion battery of the energy storage,this paper discusses the structure of the battery management system,introduces the main function of the system,especially the data acquisition of cell,estimation of state-of-charge and balancing control in the battery management system. Advantages and disadvantages of the methods of SOC estimation and balancing management are given and the implementation strategies of the methods are evaluated.
Gastroesophageal reflux and Barrett's esophagus.

The role of endoscopic ultrasonography in the assessment of patients with reflux esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus is the subject of intense evaluation. Many tests have been proposed for the evaluation of patients with acid-reflux disorders. However, in the current era of cost containment, it is reasonable to perform only those tests necessary to provide the information required for optimal patient management. Although the role of EUS in evaluating patients with Barrett’s esophagus appears promising, its clinical use remains largely unproven.
A Hemorrhagic Diathesis Due to a Qualitative Platelet Defect

1. A patient with hemorrhagic diathesis associated with a prolonged clotting time is presented. 2. The clotting defect was corrected by normal and hemophiliac blood and normal platelet-containing plasma but was not corrected by idiopathic thrombocytopenic blood or by normal and leukemic platelet-poor plasmas as measured by the prothrombin consumption test. 3. The clotting defect appears most likely to be due to platelets which are defective in that area of platelet activity concerned with the activation of thromboplastinogen to form thromboplastin.
The microbiome in celiac disease: Beyond diet-genetic interactions.

Inheriting the wrong genes and eating the wrong food (ie, gluten) are necessary for celiac disease to develop, but are not enough by themselves. Something else must be contributing, and evidence is pointing to the mix of bacteria that make our guts their home, collectively called the microbiome.
Treatment of critical status asthmaticus in children

Critical status asthmaticus resulting in respiratory failure is frequently encountered by the pediatric intensivist. This article discusses the prerequisites and contributing causes of critical status asthmaticus, updates routine therapies, and discusses newer therapies available in the pediatric intensive care unit setting.
Impact of monitoring endotracheal tube cuff leak pressure on postextubation stridor in children

Purpose To determine if implementing a protocol maintaining an air leak when using cuffed endotracheal tubes (ETT) throughout the course of mechanical ventilation (MV) in children would decrease the rate of postextubation stridor (PES). Methods All children requiring MV through a cuffed ETT were included, except those with (1) upper airway anomaly, (2) died while on MV, (3) received tracheostomy before extubation, and (4) transferred before extubation. We implemented a protocol limiting the volume of air instilled into the cuff, allowing an air leak by 25 cm H2O pressure or by peak inspiratory pressure, whichever was higher. Monitoring occurred every 6 hours, adjusting cuff volumes if necessary. Patients receiving nebulized racemic epinephrine within 24 hours of extubation for upper airway obstruction were defined as having PES. Results At baseline, 110 patients received cuffed ETTs. The proportion of patients who had an air leak at the time of extubation was 47.3%, and that who developed PES was 21.8%. During the intervention, 101 patients received cuffed ETTs. Most (72.3%) had an air leak at the time of extubation (P Conclusions Maintaining an appropriate air leak throughout the course of MV using cuffed ETT decreases the rate of PES in children.
Chapter Five: Shi’ism at Large

Over the last four chapters I have sought to expose the body politics of the region in critical encounters with its internal dynamics and external factors in a manner that requires a simultaneous attention to domestic and regional force fields, and the way in which we need to understand social uprisings that have now culminated in the formation of an aesthetic reason, which I took the entirety of the last chapter detailing in its multiple dimensions. Now I wish to turn to Shi’ism, as inherently a religion of protest that has its own peculiar dynamics of power and rebellion, and which at once enables and delimits the terms of Iranian politics in transnational and transregional terms. The formation of an aesthetic reason predicated on collective historical experiences has retrieved the repressed intuition of transcendence embedded in Shi’i doctrinal and emotive history. Here I turn back to the larger regional context and attend specifically to the sectarian tone of Sunni–Shi’i rivalries presumed to underline the geopolitics of the region. I wish to make the entirely counterintuitive proposition that orthodox–heterodox contestations throughout Islamic history, prior to Muslim encounter with European colonialism, has in fact been the source of multiple pluralistic cultures among Muslims and it is, as a result, a deliberate distortion by ruling regimes in Iran and Saudi Arabia (or any other ruling regime) to cast it otherwise. A full grasp of the historical formation of Shi’ism is therefore quintessential to our understanding of its geostrategic dimensions in our own time.