cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biobehavioral examination of fatigue across populations: report from a P30 Center of Excellence.

Abstract Objectives This article reports the cross-studies analysis of projects from the P30 Center of Excellence for Biobehavioral Approaches to Symptom Management. Although the projects investigated diverse populations, a consistent theoretical and empirical approach guided each project. Methods Common data elements included the following measures of psychobehavioral variables: the PROMIS Short-Form Fatigue Scale, the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Perceived Stress Scale. Plasma cytokines were measured as the shared biological data element. Results Data were analyzed from 295 participants with fibromyalgia ( n = 72), second trimester pregnancy ( n = 73), sickle cell anemia ( n = 60), and cardiometabolic risk ( n = 91). The mean age of participants was 35.4 years, and the most participants were female. Levels of symptoms were generally elevated across samples; the level of fatigue ranged from 18.9 to 24.7, depressive symptoms from 12.5 to 23.4, and perceived stress from 16.5 to 21.8. Intercorrelations among symptom measures and perceived stress were strong across the samples. However, correlations among psychobehavioral variables and cytokines were variable, indicating a separate relationship for the measures with cytokines. Conclusions Future work in symptom science could benefit from common data elements, including biomarkers, across populations to better develop the taxonomy of symptom profiles across conditions.
On reflection principles

Abstract Godel initiated the program of finding and justifying axioms that effect a significant reduction in incompleteness and he drew a fundamental distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic justifications. Reflection principles are the most promising candidates for new axioms that are intrinsically justified. Taking as our starting point Tait’s work on general reflection principles, we prove a series of limitative results concerning this approach. These results collectively show that general reflection principles are either weak (in that they are consistent relative to the Erdos cardinal κ ( ω ) ) or inconsistent. The philosophical significance of these results is discussed.
High Performance Polycrystalline Diamond Micro Resonators

The highest Q factors for polycrystalline diamond resonators (also the highest Q factors for a cantilever beam made of any polycrystalline material) have been measured, whose undoped poly-C films grown at 780 degC. For boron doped poly-C films or poly-C films grown at a growth temperature of 600 degC, significantly lower Qs were observed. The doped poly-C film exhibited a peak in dissipation at 673 K, suggesting the existence of a dominant defect in these films that maybe related to boron doping. In addition, the temperature dependence of the poly-C resonators was examined, and a temperature coefficient of resonance frequency in the range of -1.59 x 10-5 degC-1 to -2.56 x 10-5 degC-1 was observed.
Differential effect of phage regulator functions on transcription from various promoters: Evidence that the P22 gene 24 and the λ gene N products distinguish three classes of promoters

Early rightward transcription of the λ genome which normally initiates from P r can also initiate from two promoters (c17 and ric5b) generated by mutations. In the absence of the phage-specified N regulatory function, transcription initiating from either of these promoters cannot proceed through the P-Q region due to a transcription termination sequence, t r 2. We have used expression of the R gene product, endolysin, as an indirect measure of transcription of genes lying distal to t r 2. Our studies indicate that whereas transcription initiating from P r can utilize N product in overcoming transcription termination, transcription initiating either at c17 or ric5b cannot similarly utilize N product. Using hybrid phage constructed from λ and a Salmonella-specific temperate phage P22, we find that a P22 gene product can be utilized by transcription initiating both at P r and ric5b (but not transcription initiating at c17) in overcoming termination. Our studies indicate that the P22 gene 24 product is the function involved, a P22 function previously shown to have properties similar to those of the N function of λ (Hilliker, 1974) . These observations permit the identification of three types of promoters found on various λ derivatives; (1) P r which can utilize the N and 24 gene products (2) ric5b which can utilize only the gene 24 product, and (3) c17 which can utilize neither product.
Transport of 5-fluorouracil and uracil into human erythrocytes

The transport of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and uracil into human erythrocytes has been investigated under initial velocity conditions with an "inhibitor-stop" assay using a cold papaverine solution to terminate influx. At 37 degrees and pH 7.3, 5-FU influx was nonconcentrative; was partially inhibited by adenine, hypoxanthine, thymine, and uracil; and was insensitive to inhibition by nucleosides or inhibitors of nucleoside transport. Inhibition of the influx of 5-FU or uracil by adenine (3.0 mM) did not increase when other pyrimidines or inhibitors of nucleoside transport were combined with adenine. 5-FU and uracil exhibited similar saturable (Km approximately 4 mM, Vmax approximately 500 pmol/sec/5 microL cells) and nonsaturable (rate constant approximately 80 pmol/sec/mM/5 microL cells) components of influx. 5-FU, uracil, adenine, and hypoxanthine were competitive inhibitors of each other's influx with Ki values matching their respective Km values for influx. We conclude that 5-FU and uracil enter human erythrocytes at similar rates via both nonfacilitated diffusion and the same carrier that transports adenine and hypoxanthine.
Inequalities for eigenvalues of a class of polyharmonic operators

Soit Ω⊂R m (m>1) un domaine borne a frontiere assez lisse ∂Ω. On considere les (n+1) premieres valeurs propres du probleme Δ 2l u−λu=0 dans Ω, u=∂u|∂n=...=∂ 2l−1 u/∂n 2l−1 =0 sur ∂Ω. On donne des inegalites entre ces valeurs propres
Cardiorespiratory impact of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME in the exercising horse.

Abstract To investigate the role of nitric oxide, NO, in facilitating cardiorespiratory function during exercise, five horses ran on a treadmill at speeds that yielded 50, 80 and 100% of peak pulmonary oxygen uptake ( V O 2 peak) as determined on a maximal incremental test. Each horse underwent one control (C) and one (NO-synthase inhibitor; NG- l -nitro-arginine methyl ester ( l -NAME), 20 mg/kg) trial in randomized order. Pulmonary gas exchange (open flow system), arterial and mixed-venous blood gases, cardiac output (Fick Principle), and pulmonary and systemic conductances were determined. l -NAME reduced exercise tolerance, as well as cardiac output (C, 291±34; l -NAME, 246±38 L/min), body O2 delivery (C, 74.4±5.5; l -NAME, 62.1±5.6 L/min), and both pulmonary (C, 3.07±0.26; l -NAME, 2.84±0.35 L/min per mmHg) and systemic (C, 1.55±0.24; l -NAME, 1.17±0.16 L/min per mmHg) effective vascular conductances at peak running speeds (all P l -NAME increased O2 extraction, which compensated for the reduced body O2 delivery and prevented a fall in V O 2 . However, at peak running speed in the l -NAME trial, an elevated O2 extraction (P V O 2 from falling consequent to the reduced O2 delivery. At the 50 and 80% running speeds (as for peak), l -NAME reduced pulmonary and systemic effective conductances. These data demonstrate that the NO synthase inhibitor, l -NAME, induces a profound hemodynamic impairment at submaximal and peak running speeds in the horse thereby unveiling a potentially crucial role for NO in mediating endothelial function during exercise.
Role of Social Support in Predicting Caregiver Burden

Abstract Rodakowski J, Skidmore ER, Rogers JC, Schulz R. Role of social support in predicting caregiver burden. Objective To examine the unique contribution of social support to burden in caregivers of adults aging with spinal cord injury (SCI). Design Secondary analyses of cross-sectional data from a large cohort of adults aging with SCI and their primary caregivers. Setting Multiple community locations. Participants Caregivers of community-dwelling adults aging with SCI (n=173) were interviewed as part of a multisite randomized controlled trial. The mean age ± SD of caregivers was 53±15 years and of care-recipients, 55±13 years. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome was caregiver burden measured with the Abridged Version of the Zarit Burden Interview. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis examined the effects of social supports (social integration, received social support, and negative social interactions) on burden in caregivers of adults aging with SCI while controlling for demographic characteristics and caregiving characteristics. Results After controlling for demographic characteristics and caregiving characteristics, social integration (β=−.16, P P P Conclusions Findings demonstrate that social support is an important factor associated with burden in caregivers of adults aging with SCI. Social support should be considered for assessments and interventions designed to identify and reduce caregiver burden.
Co++ binding by plasma proteins

Abstract 50Co++ added to human or rabbit plasmain vitro combines selectively with the albumin fraction. At pH 7.1, the Scatchard plot yields a curve that may be resolved for two classes of sites: one, wheren1 = 2 andK1 = 6.5 × 103, the other wheren2 = 23 andK2 = 1.6 × 102, Mn++ cannot compete for these sites. The affinity for the cobaltous ion displays a steep increment between pH 6.7 and 8.6. If injected intravenously 50% of the cobalt tracer is cleared from the plasma in 25 minutes. An additional complex of higher molecular weight than that of albumin is formedin vivo.
A Review of: “A Many Colored Kingdom: Multicultural Dynamics for Spiritual Formation. By Elizabeth Conde-Frazier, S. Steve Kang, and Gary A. Parrett. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2004.”

True to the authors' introductory confession, A Many Colored Kingdom is an “exploration” and an “experiment.” It is an exploration of the intercultural and multicultural dynamics that shape faith f...
Carotid artery endarterectomy: A multidisciplinary approach to improving resource utilization and quality assurance

An estimated 780,000 people in the United States have a stroke each year. Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is the most frequently performed surgical procedure to prevent the occurrence of stroke. Over the past several years, physicians, nurses, and allied healthcare workers have been challenged to perform this operation in a cost-effective manner without compromising clinical outcomes. At Maine Medical Center (MMC), Portland, Maine, an average of 250 CEAs are performed annually. As part of a quality-assurance initiative, MMC key stakeholders redesigned the care of patients undergoing CEA surgery. A critical pathway supported by a computerized order set was implemented; standardized discharge instructions and a patient teaching brochure were developed. A patient flow algorithm allowing select patients to bypass the intermediate care unit and transfer directly from the post-anesthesia care unit to a non-telemetry surgical bed was instituted. From January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2011, 467 chart audits were completed on 100% of CEA surgeries (cases with concomitant procedures excluded) using the Vascular Study Group of New England data collection form. Data analyzed supports the practice changes that were instituted. Allowing patients to be admitted to a non-telemetry surgical unit following CEA has resulted in significant cost savings and increased the availability of intermediate care beds to higher acuity patients without negatively affecting patient outcomes.
Statins Are Associated With Reduced Risk of Esophageal Cancer, Particularly in Patients With Barrett's Esophagus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background & Aims The incidence of esophageal cancer is increasing in the United States, especially among patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE). Statins might prevent this cancer. We performed a systematic review with a meta-analysis of studies that evaluated the effect of statins on the risk of esophageal cancer. Methods We conducted a systematic search of Medline, Embase, and Web of Science through August 2012. Studies were included if they evaluated exposure to statins, reported the development of esophageal cancer, and reported relative risks or odds ratios (OR), or provided data for their estimation. Summary OR estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using the random-effects model. The analysis included 13 studies (including a post hoc analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials) reporting 9285 cases of esophageal cancer among 1,132,969 patients. Results A meta-analysis of the studies showed a significant (28%) reduction in the risk of esophageal cancer among patients who took statins (adjusted OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.60–0.86), although there was considerable heterogeneity among studies. In analyzing a subset of patients known to have BE (5 studies, 312 esophageal adenocarcinomas [EAC] developed in 2125 patients), statins were associated with a significant (41%) decrease in the risk of EAC, after adjusting for potential confounders (adjusted OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.45–0.78) with consistent results among all studies. The number needed to treat with statins to prevent 1 case of EAC in patients with BE was 389. Conclusions Based on meta-analysis of observational studies, statin use may be associated with lower risk of esophageal cancer, particularly risk of EAC in patients with BE.
Trade-offs between devices and paths in achieving disk interleaving

There is a continuing need to improve the performance of disk subsystems, and one of the key factors of a disk subsystem's performance is the data transfer rate. While it is clear that increasing the data transfer rate would reduce the service time for those applications that move large amounts of data per I/O, the amount of data transferred per I/O in many of today's typical commercial applications is relatively small. The benefit of a higher data rate in these environments was not well understood, but is explored here and is found to be larger than expected.One way to increase the data rate of the disk subsystem is through a technique generally known as striping. Using this approach, multiple conventional disks are grouped together and function as if they were a single one, with the data spread among the multiple disks and transferred in parallel. In this paper, we study four alternative implementations for achieving higher data rates in a disk subsystem, focusing on the trade-offs between the number of devices and the number of data paths, keeping the number of physical devices constant (which may keep the cost roughly constant). The performance advantages and limitations of the alternative implementations are analyzed using an analytic queuing model and compared to a conventional disk subsystem.
ON THE CONTROL OF NONLINEAR FREE VIBRATIONS OF A SIMPLY SUPPORTED BEAM

Linear and nonlinear feedback control techniques are investigated to suppress large amplitude free bending vibration of a simply supported beam with immovable ends. The Woinowsky-Krieger beam equation is employed to obtain the single degree of freedom Duffing oscillator. Accuracy of the frequency versus amplitude relations is assessed and the approximate relation using the Ritz-Galerkin method is used in some of the control techniques employed. Various control techniques are used to suppress the beam nonlinear vibration and to assess the best control method for such a problem. Linear controllers considered are the LQR and the ELo optimal control techniques. A simple control strategy which uses the frequency versus amplitude relation to schedule the controller gains is presented. Other nonlinear control strategies considered are, fuzzy, adaptive fuzzy, feedback linearization, and adaptive feedback linearization control techniques. The performance of the closed loop system is compared for various controllers with discussions on the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of each control method. NOMENCLATURE a, al, a3, .. = modal amplitudes A, B, C, D = state space system matrices A = beam cross-section area E = Young's modulus L = beam length N = axial force r = radius of gyration t = time u = control input w = transverse deflection x = system states x = beam longitudinal coordinate
The Use of Self-Generated Identification Codes in Longitudinal Research:

Longitudinal research designs involve data collection at multiple time points to measure change over time. Therefore, identification of the same respondents is essential at each time point so that data from the same respondents can be matched for comparison over time. Subject-generated identification codes permit an anonymous means to track respondents over multiple data collection points. This article describes the evolution of subject-generated identification codes, techniques to improve respondent match rates, and the authors' experience using this mechanism in a longitudinal study of staff registered nurses working in hospitals. Challenges, recommendations, and implications for using subject-generated identification codes are discussed.
“This Time I Think I'll Try a Filipina”: Global and Local Influences on Relations Between Foreign Household Workers and Their Employers in Doha, Qatar

AN EXAMINATION OF the practice of employing foreign household workers reveals how global and local relations shape social life in Doha, the capital of Qatar. The paper addresses the factors influencing changing patterns of labor recruitment, and then focuses on the reproduction of local social relations through the everyday practices of household labor. Both global and local inequalities are imprinted onto everyday practice through the asymmetrical relations of household labor. The convergence of global and local influences in domestic relations is further shown to shape the spatial distribution of social relations throughout Doha. [Globalization, labor migration, household workers, Middle East, Qatar]
Role of Self-Efficacy and Task-Value in Predicting College Students' Course Performance and Future Enrollment Intentions

Predictive utility of self-efficacy and task-value beliefs was compared among 168 Korean female college students. The study assessed the constructs longitudinally and attempted consolidation of self-efficacy and expectancy-value theories. Self-efficacy perceptions were assessed at varying levels of measurement specificity. Exploratory factor analyses showed that self-efficacy items were reliably differentiated into separate factors of a priori specificity. These self-efficacy factors were positively correlated among themselves and, with an exception of problem-specific self-efficacy, also with the task-value factor. A correlation coefficient between any two self-efficacy factors tended to decrease, as these factors were associated with increasingly different measurement levels. Path analysis showed that students' midterm scores and enrollment intentions at T1 were better predicted by the task-value factor. However, the typically stronger links of self-efficacy to performance and of task value to intentions were observed with T2 variables. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.
The design, implementation, and application of the grewpEdit tool

This paper examines the GrewpEdit tool which was developed as part of the groupware research in education and the workforce project. GrewpEdit was designed to support close collaboration in programming classes. We describe the design and use of GrewpEdit and discuss our current and planned uses of this tool.
An Extracellular Cu2+ Binding Site in the Voltage Sensor of BK and Shaker Potassium Channels

Copper is an essential trace element that may serve as a signaling molecule in the nervous system. Here we show that extracellular Cu2+ is a potent inhibitor of BK and Shaker K+ channels. At low micromolar concentrations, Cu2+ rapidly and reversibly reduces macrosocopic K+ conductance (GK) evoked from mSlo1 BK channels by membrane depolarization. GK is reduced in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 and Hill coefficient of ∼2 μM and 1.0, respectively. Saturating 100 μM Cu2+ shifts the GK-V relation by +74 mV and reduces GKmax by 27% without affecting single channel conductance. However, 100 μM Cu2+ fails to inhibit GK when applied during membrane depolarization, suggesting that Cu2+ interacts poorly with the activated channel. Of other transition metal ions tested, only Zn2+ and Cd2+ had significant effects at 100 μM with IC50s > 0.5 mM, suggesting the binding site is Cu2+ selective. Mutation of external Cys or His residues did not alter Cu2+ sensitivity. However, four putative Cu2+-coordinating residues were identified (D133, Q151, D153, and R207) in transmembrane segments S1, S2, and S4 of the mSlo1 voltage sensor, based on the ability of substitutions at these positions to alter Cu2+ and/or Cd2+ sensitivity. Consistent with the presence of acidic residues in the binding site, Cu2+ sensitivity was reduced at low extracellular pH. The three charged positions in S1, S2, and S4 are highly conserved among voltage-gated channels and could play a general role in metal sensitivity. We demonstrate that Shaker, like mSlo1, is much more sensitive to Cu2+ than Zn2+ and that sensitivity to these metals is altered by mutating the conserved positions in S1 or S4 or reducing pH. Our results suggest that the voltage sensor forms a state- and pH-dependent, metal-selective binding pocket that may be occupied by Cu2+ at physiologically relevant concentrations to inhibit activation of BK and other channels.
Organic matter pores and oil generation in the Tuscaloosa marine shale

The Upper Cretaceous Tuscaloosa marine shale (TMS) is an oil play across central Louisiana and southwest Mississippi. The lower TMS is characterized by relatively high log resistivity (>5 ohm-m) compared to the upper part, and this elevated resistivity zone (ERZ) has become the primary target zone. This study is to investigate the cause of variation in log resistivity based on the data of petrography, mineralogy, and organic matter property and porosity. The results suggest that log resistivity is not controlled by mineralogy or porosity; rather, it is associated with oil generation during organic matter maturation. Total organic carbon (TOC) content, Rock-Eval free hydrocarbon yield (S1), and hydrogen index (HI) in the studied core increase with depth. Porosity within organic matter (OM), measured by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), is also higher within the ERZ. The correlated variations among TOC content, S1 values, OM porosity, and log resistivity suggest that the higher log resistivity resulted from in situ oil generation and that the OM pores were generated during oil generation. Thermal maturity varies little in the core; whereas the downward-increasing HI indicates an increasing abundance of oil-prone type II kerogen. Higher OM porosity appears to be related to the greater proportion of type II kerogen in the ERZ. The data set demonstrates that higher contents of TOC and oil-prone kerogen are the combined factors for higher oil generation, therefore, higher log resistivity in the ERZ. The study provides a quantitative relationship between OM porosity and oil generation.
Science Signaling Podcast: 12 November 2013

This Podcast features an interview with Stephen Rogers and Mark Peifer, authors of a Research Article that appears in the 12 November 2013 issue of Science Signaling , about their identification of a receptor for a factor that drives gastrulation in fruit fly embryos. Most animal embryos are composed of three basic cell types: endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm. These three germ layers are created by gastrulation, a morphogenetic process by which cells of the early embryo are rearranged into a three-layered structure. Gastrulation is absolutely essential for proper development and is primarily driven by cell shape changes. Fruit fly embryos have been used as a model for studying gastrulation for decades due to their rapid development, the ease of viewing gastrulation in vivo, and the availability of mutants with defective gastrulation. Using an in vitro assay that recapitulates the cell shape changes that occur during gastrulation, Stephen Rogers and Mark Peifer have identified the G protein–coupled receptor Mist as the receptor for Fog, a secreted factor that drives gastrulation in the fruit fly.
A random walk down the genomes: DNA evolution in Valis

The authors propose a new software system that incorporates biological data and domain-specific knowledge and show how biologists can use it to model, analyze, and experiment with genomic evolutionary processes. A better understanding of biology will come through information-theoretic studies of genomes that provide insights into DNA's role in governing metabolic and regulatory pathways. Understanding the evolutionary processes that act on these "codes of life" requires the ability to analyze vast amounts of continually generated genomic data. Researchers in the emerging bioinformatics discipline require more complex mechanisms to investigate the full ensemble of available biological facts. To meet this challenge, New York University's Bioinformatics Group is creating a computational environment called Valis, the vast active living intelligent system. Valis is designed to solve the immediate genomic and proteomic problems that the biological community currently faces, while remaining flexible enough to adapt to the maturing bioinformatics field.
An adaptive outlier detection technique for data streams

This work presents an adaptive outlier detection technique for data streams, called Automatic Outlier Detection for Data Streams (A-ODDS), which identifies outliers with respect to all the received data points (global context) as well as temporally close data points (local context) where local context are selected based on time and change of data distribution.
A multi-stage decision model for mission non-contamination requirements.

There is apt to be much uncertainty in any program of planetary exploration. This uncertainty naturally leads to possible uncertainty in the time period in which planetary quarantine is desirable, to possible uncertainty in the total number of missions to be launched in the vicinity of any given planet, and indeed, to possible uncertainty in the meaning of the word ‘contamination’. A model is developed in this paper which makes possible the derivation of mission non-contamination requirements withouta priori knowledge of either the time period in which planetary quarantine is to be observed or the total number of missions to be used in exploring the planet being quarantined. On the basis of this model, some general observations are made about the need for carefully defining ‘contamination’.
Interactions of methionine, vitamin E, and antioxidants in selenium toxicity in the rat.

Female Wistar albino rats were fed a low vitamin E diet based on peanut meal and containing 10 ppm selenium as Na2SeO4. Supplementation of the diet with either 0.5% DL-methionine (Met) or 0.05% rfi-a-tocopheryl acetate (E) alone gave little protection against the liver damage due to selenium. However, a combination of 0.5% Met plus 0.01 to 0.05% E gave increasingly better protection depending on the level of E added. Combinations of 0.5% Met plus 0.05% N,N'-diphenyl-p-phenylenedi- amine, l,2-dihydro-6-ethoxy-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline, or butylated hydroxytoluene were also effective against liver damage, whereas supplements of 0.5% Met plus 0.1% di- sodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, 0.25% mA©thylA¨ne blue, or 0.5% ascorbic acid gave little or variable protection against selenium. Replacement of the 0.5% Met with equi- molar amounts of cysteine, betaine, or cysteine plus betaine gave variable results. Addition of 0.39% guanidoacetic acid to a diet supplemented with 0.5% Met and 0.05% E appeared to inhibit the protective effect of the Met-E combination. Selenium levels in the livers and kidneys of rats fed supplements which protected against sele nium poisoning were lower than those of the animals fed the unsupplemented selenifer- ous peanut meal diet. It is suggested that vitamin E and the fat-soluble antioxidants make the methyl group of methionine more available for selenium detoxification.
Primary Care: Detection of Women with Alcohol Use Disorders

Most persons who abuse or depend on alcohol do not seek treatment directly for their drinking problems but do receive general medical care.3.2 Estimates of the prevalence of alcohol abuse and dependence among medical outpatients range from 5% to 40%.304 Physicians frequently encounter but do not routinely intervene with the patients who are most likely to benefit from early identification and treatment-the problem drinkers.”’ Explanations for these missed opportunities include the difficulty in identifying patients with a drinking problem and the lack of time or training to intervene. As shown in a national survey of 4756 physicians,8 only 19% of general medicine physicians believe that they had good or excellent preparation to assist problem drinkers in modifying their alcohol consumption. Thus, development of effective screening and intervention procedures that are easy to use in primary care would address both the patients’ and physicians’ needs. The difficulties in identifying and treating alcohol abuse in the primary care setting are more pronounced with female patients. Nationally, the ma1e:female ratio is 2:l for the prevalence of alcohol abuse and dependence but 4:l for treatment.g The limited recognition and treatment of female problem drinkers may have serious consequences because women are more susceptible than men to the adverse effects of alcoho1.l0J1 Lower levels of gastric alcohol dehydrogenase, combined with a higher percentage of body fat and a lower percentage of body water, result in more-toxic effects in women than in men from any given amount of alcoh01.~~J~ The greater toxicity is evidenced by increased risk of alcoholic liver disease, brain damage, and cardiomyopathy, and death after fewer years of alcohol-dependent drinking in ~omen.~~.’~ The Nurses’ Health Study,ls a prospective
Overlapping and enzyme-specific contributions of matrix metalloproteinases-9 and -12 in IL-13–induced inflammation and remodeling

IL-13 potently stimulates eosinophilic and lymphocytic inflammation and alveolar remodeling in the lung, effects that depend on the induction of various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Here, we compared the remodeling and inflammatory effects of an IL-13 transgene in lungs of wild-type, MMP-9-deficient, or MMP-12-deficient mice. IL-13-induced alveolar enlargement, lung enlargement, compliance alterations, and respiratory failure and death were markedly decreased in the absence of MMP-9 or MMP-12. Moreover, IL-13 potently induced MMPs-2, -12, -13, and -14 in the absence of MMP-9, while induction of MMPs-2, -9, -13, and -14 by IL-13 was diminished in the absence of MMP-12. A deficiency in MMP-9 did not alter eosinophil, macrophage, or lymphocyte recovery, but increased the recovery of total leukocytes and neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids from IL-13 transgenic mice. In contrast, a deficiency in MMP-12 decreased the recovery of leukocytes, eosinophils, and macrophages, but not lymphocytes or neutrophils. These studies demonstrate that IL-13 acts via MMPs-9 and -12 to induce alveolar remodeling, respiratory failure, and death and that IL-13 induction of MMPs-2, -9, -13, and -14 is mediated at least partially by an MMP-12-dependent pathway. The also demonstrate that MMPs-9 and -12 play different roles in the generation of IL-13-induced inflammation, with MMP-9 inhibiting neutrophil accumulation and MMP-12 contributing to the accumulation of eosinophils and macrophages.
Performance evaluation of OFDMA and multicarrier CDMA systems on airport surface area channels

To meet increasing communication demands on airport surface areas, several systems have been proposed. The OFDMA based IEEE 802.16e system and other multicarrier systems such as multicarrier code division multiple access (MC- CDMA) are of great interest, since they provide flexible data rates and good system performance. In this paper, the performance of several multi-carrier transmission schemes, including OFDMA, spread spectrum multi-carrier multiple access (SS-MC- MA), and frequency generalized multi-carrier CDMA (FG-MC-CDMA), are evaluated on airport surface area channels. All multicarrier spread spectrum systems considered here can be implemented on a common platform and together provide a large amount of flexibility in user data rates, system throughput, performance, and complexity. Moreover, adaptive subcarrier- allocation is not required for these systems, which can greatly reduce system complexity compared to an AMC-OFDMA system.
Two new dibromotyrosine derivatives from the caribbean sponge pseudoceratina crassa

Abstract Two novel dibromotyrosine derivatives were isolated from the Caribbean sponge Pseudoceratina crassa (Hyatt). The structures of ethyl 3,5-dibromo-4-(3′-N,N-dimethylaminopropyloxy)cinnamate (1) and 3,5-dibromo-4-(3′-N,N-dimethylaminopropyloxy)cinnamic acid (2) were proposed on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and were confirmed by synthesis.
Does place of residence affect risk of suicide? a spatial epidemiologic investigation in Kentucky from 1999 to 2008

Background: Approximately 32,000 people take their own lives every year in the United States. In Kentucky, suicide mortality rates have been steadily increasing since 1999. Few studies in the United States have assessed spatial clustering of suicides. The purpose of this study was to identify high-risk clusters of suicide at the county level in Kentucky and assess the characteristics of those suicide cases within the clusters. Methods: A spatial epidemiological study was undertaken using suicide data for the period January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2008, obtained from the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics. Descriptive analyses using Pearson’s chisquare test and t-test were performed to determine whether differences existed in age, marital status, year, season, and suicide method between males and females, and between cases inside and outside high-risk spatial clusters. Annual age-adjusted cumulative incidence rates were also calculated. Suicide incidence rates were spatially smoothed using the Spatial Empirical Bayesian technique. Kulldorff’s spatial scan statistic was applied on all suicide cases at the county level to identify counties with the highest risks of suicide. Temporal cluster analysis was also performed. Results: There were a total of 5,551 suicide cases in Kentucky from 1999 to 2008, of which 5,237 (94%) were included in our analyses. The majority of suicide cases were males (82%). The average age of suicide victims was 45.4 years. Two statistically significant (p < 0.05) high-risk spatial clusters, involving 15 counties, were detected. The county level cumulative incidence rate in the most likely high-risk cluster ranged from 12.4 to 21.6 suicides per 100,000 persons. The counties inside both high-risk clusters had relative risks ranging from 1.24 to 1.38. Conclusions: Statistically significant high-risk spatial clusters of suicide were detected at the county level. This study may be useful for guiding future research and intervention efforts. Future studies will need to focus on these high-risk clusters to investigate reasons for these occurrences.
Associations between Human Leukocyte Antigen Homozygosity and Antibody Levels to Measles Vaccine

The association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) homozygosity and measles antibody levels was assessed in a volunteer group of 242 children. Serum samples were tested for measles IgG antibodies, class I and class II HLA alleles were typed, and associations were examined between HLA homozygosity and antibody levels. Children who were homozygous for at least 1 locus were twice as likely to be seronegative (odds ratio, 1.97; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-3.61). Children who were homozygous at >/=1 loci were increasingly likely to be seronegative (chi(2) test for trend; P=.02). When serum antibody levels were examined as continuous variables, children who were homozygous at certain loci tended to have lower mean antibody levels. These results suggest that lack of HLA diversity may limit the range of peptides that can be presented to antibody-producing cells, potentially resulting in a decreased immune response to viral infections.
Systematically exploring the behavior of control programs

Many networked systems today, ranging from home automation networks to global wide-area networks, are operated using centralized control programs. Bugs in such programs pose serious risks to system security and stability. We develop a new technique to systematically explore the behavior of control programs. Because control programs depend intimately on absolute and relative timing of inputs, a key challenge that we face is to systematically handle time. We develop an approach that models programs as timed automata and incorporates novel mechanisms to enable scalable and comprehensive exploration. We implement our approach in a tool called DeLorean and apply it to real control programs for home automation and software-defined networks. DeLorean is able to finds bugs in these programs as well as provide significantly better code coverage--up to 94% compared to 76% for existing techniques.
New Agent(s) to Cause Hepatitis?: Summary of a Specialty Session

The discovery of hepatitis C virus (HCV) redefined non-A, non-B hepatitis. Although several sensitive tests have been developed to detect serum markers for HCV infection, many cases of sporadic hepatitis, as well as some associated with transfusion, yield negative results. The implication, therefore, is that such cases of hepatitis may be caused by unidentified viral agents, and these cases may exhibit unique clinical features.
From Allergens to Battery Anodes: Nature-Inspired, Pollen Derived Carbon Architectures for Room- and Elevated- Temperature Li-ion Storage

The conversion of allergic pollen grains into carbon microstructures was carried out through a facile, one-step, solid-state pyrolysis process in an inert atmosphere. The as-prepared carbonaceous particles were further air activated at 300 °C and then evaluated as lithium ion battery anodes at room (25 °C) and elevated (50 °C) temperatures. The distinct morphologies of bee pollens and cattail pollens are resembled on the final architecture of produced carbons. Scanning Electron Microscopy images shows that activated bee pollen carbon (ABP) is comprised of spiky, brain-like, and tiny spheres; while activated cattail pollen carbon (ACP) resembles deflated spheres. Structural analysis through X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed their amorphous nature. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of ABP and ACP confirmed that both samples contain high levels of oxygen and small amount of nitrogen contents. At C/10 rate, ACP electrode delivered high specific lithium storage reversible capacities (590 mAh/g at 50 °C and 382 mAh/g at 25 °C) and also exhibited excellent high rate capabilities. Through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies, improved performance of ACP is attributed to its lower charge transfer resistance than ABP. Current studies demonstrate that morphologically distinct renewable pollens could produce carbon architectures for anode applications in energy storage devices.
On teaching the nature of science: perspectives and resources

In this paper, I present a critical review of the recent book, On Teaching the Nature of Science: Perspectives and Resources, written by Douglas Allchin (2013). This publication presents an in-depth examination of the nature of science construct, as well as instruction for educators about how to teach it effectively utilizing historical case studies as vehicles for knowledge. Although several themes in the book merit further attention, a central issue present across all chapters is the largely masculine, monocultural nature of science presented, which is common to a multitude of scientific publications. In this review, I illustrate how culture and gender in science is not addressed throughout the book. I also discuss where we can build on the work of the author to integrate more aspects of gender and culture in teaching the nature of science.
A Genetic Algorithm Approach to Probabilistic Airspace Congestion Management

This paper describes a methodology for airspace congestion management that uses genetic algorithms to optimize probabilistic metrics of National Airspace System (NAS) performance and throughput. Stochastic metrics of predicted congestion are generated using a previously developed model and then used by a genetic algorithm to generate preventive resolution options such as ground delays and alternative routes. The stochastic performance metrics attempt to balance throughput and congestion likelihood. Performance using this approach is compared to a heuristic algorithm that develops a non-optimal, flight-specific congestion solution based on a prioritized flight list. This solution can be used directly to resolve congestion, or as a basis for collaboration with NAS customers. Simulation results demonstrate that both algorithms are generally effective at solving a range of presented congestion scenarios of varying complexity. In the test cases examined, the genetic algorithm resolves congestion using a combination of reroutes and ground delays that affect fewer flights than does the heuristic algorithm. The results suggest that the benefits of an optimizing algorithm may be largest for complex congestion scenarios with many degrees of freedom that must be balanced to arrive at a solution.
The use of Mathematical Models in Marketing

Marketing executives and mathematicians have joined forces in a search for improved decision models to handle such problems as new-product development, media selection, retail inventory control, an...
Fast and Slow Activation Kinetics of Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels in Molluscan Neurons

Gilly, William F., Rhanor Gillette, and Matthew McFarlane. Fast and slow activation kinetics of voltage-gated sodium channels in molluscan neurons. J. Neurophysiol. 77: 2373–2384, 1997. Whole cell ...
Development of structural steel materials for transmission towers

This paper discusses the status quo and development trend of transmission tower materials,points out that there will be higher requirements of the varieties and specifications of transmission tower materials alongside with the continuous construction of power grids.Tower materials will develop in the environmental-friendly,high-strength and conservation-oriented trend.In the future,the demand for Q420,Q460 high-strength and large-width angle steel will grow enormously;the steel tubular tower will be used in transmission lines more widely due to its excellent carrying capability;new materials like weather-resisting cold-formed steel and composite material will be gradually used in transmission towers.
Ectopic ACTH syndrome and CRH-mediated Cushing's syndrome

The ectopic ACTH syndrome accounts for a substantial number of patients with naturally occurring Cushing's syndrome. Despite the progress achieved in elucidating the pathophysiology of Cushing's syndrome, clinicians continue to experience diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This is especially true in those patients presenting with disease mediated by ectopically produced ACTH and CRH. Patients with these disorders may be indistinguishable based on clinical grounds or simple biochemical and radiologic testing from those with Cushing's disease. However, this differentiation is critical because their therapies differ. While clinical researchers continue to develop more effective diagnostic techniques and therapies, further advances in the molecular and cell biology of ACTH and CRH-producing tumors will undoubtedly shed light on the pathogenesis of this perplexing, fascinating and still controversial entity.
Predictors of urinary flame retardant concentration among pregnant women.

Abstract Background Organophosphate compounds are commonly used in residential furniture, electronics, and baby products as flame retardants and are also used in other consumer products as plasticizers. Although the levels of exposure biomarkers are generally higher among children and decrease with age, relatively little is known about the individual characteristics associated with higher levels of exposure. Here, we investigate urinary metabolites of several organophosphate flame retardants (PFRs) in a cohort of pregnant women to evaluate patterns of exposure. Methods Pregnant North Carolina women (n = 349) provided information on their individual characteristics (e.g. age and body mass index (BMI)) as a part of the Pregnancy Infection and Nutrition Study (2002–2005). Women also provided second trimester urine samples in which six PFR metabolites were measured using mass spectrometry methods. Results PFR metabolites were detected in every urine sample, with BDCIPP, DHPH, ip-PPP and BCIPHIPP detected in > 80% of samples. Geometric mean concentrations were higher than what has been reported previously for similarly-timed cohorts. Women with higher pre-pregnancy BMI tended to have higher levels of urinary metabolites. For example, those classified as obese at the start of pregnancy had ip-PPP levels that were 1.52 times as high as normal weight range women (95% confidence interval: 1.23, 1.89). Women without previous children also tended to have higher urinary levels of DPHP, but lower levels of ip-PPP. In addition, we saw strong evidence of seasonal trends in metabolite concentrations (e.g. higher DPHP, BDCIPP, and BCIPHIPP in summer, and evidence of increasing ip-PPP between 2002 and 2005). Conclusions Our results indicate ubiquitous exposure to PFRs among NC women in the early 2000s. Additionally, our work suggests that individual characteristics are related to exposure and that temporal variation, both seasonal and annual, may exist.
Are Americans Getting Sicker? An Analysis of Emerging Morbidity Trends

The improvement in the health status of the U.S. population during the 20th century is well documented. Over that century dramatic reductions were recorded for mortality rates (most notably for infant mortality and maternal mortality ), life expectancy markedly increased, and many killer diseases were eliminated as health threats. Americans became healthier as a result of higher standards of living, expanded public health functions and better diets. By the 1980s, however, observers began noting anomalies in the available data that suggest the trend toward improved health was moderating and the occasional piece of evidence that the trend was actually being reversed. By the dawn of the 21st century a growing body of evidence suggested that, in fact, Americans may be getting sicker. It would certainly be a noteworthy development if this adverse trend could be verified. However, a number of factors make it very difficult to determine if a reversal of America’s health fortunes are taking place. This paper addresses the challenges involved in definitively measuring trends in health status, reviews the evidence for declining health status, and considers the possible conclusions that can be drawn.