cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of a practice guideline for emergency department care of falls in elder patients on subsequent falls and hospitalizations for injuries.

Objective: To determine the effect of a practice guideline for the ED management of falls in community-dwelling elders on selected health outcomes. Methods: The experimental design was a pre-post-intervention comparison with one-year pre- and post-intervention phases. The guideline was presented to emergency physicians and nurses during a two-week interval between these two periods. The intervention also included health information provided to the subjects and a one-time educational intervention directed at primary care providers. The number of falls in the year following the ED visit was determined by telephone interview. The number of hospitalizations for falls was determined from the HMO database of all health care encounters. Results: 1,899 patients were eligible for the study; 1,140 pre-intervention and 759 post-intervention patients. Of these, 1,504 (79%) were interviewed by telephone 12 to 15 months after their initial ED visits. Eighteen percent of the pre-intervention and 21% of the post-intervention subjects reported at least one fall in the 12 months following their ED visits (p = 0.162). The rate of falls per 100 patient years was 36.2 in both groups. Three percent of both groups were hospitalized at least once for a fall in the year following their ED visits. One percent in each group were hospitalized for a hip fracture. Conclusions: The attempted implementation of a practice guideline for the ED management of falls in community-dwelling elders did not result in a reduction in total falls, or in hospitalizations for falls, injuries, or fractures.
Distributed cognition, representation, and affordance

This article describes a representation-based framework of distributed cognition. This framework considers distributed cognition as a cognitive system whose structures and processes are distributed between internal and external representations, across a group of individuals, and across space and time. The major issue for distributed research, under this framework, are the distribution, transformation, and propagation of information across the components of the distributed cognitive system and how they affect the performance of the system as a whole. To demonstrate the value of this representation-based approach, the framework was used to describe and explain an important, challenging, and controversial issue — the concept of affordance.
Remembering without Knowing

This paper challenges the standard conception of memory as a form of knowledge. Unlike knowledge, memory implies neither belief nor justification.
Solubility of Felodipine and Nitrendipine in Liquid and Supercritical Carbon Dioxide by Cloud Point and UV Spectroscopy

The solubility of two calcium channel blockers, felodipine and nitrendipine, was measured in liquid and supercritical carbon dioxide at (298, 308, and 318) K and at pressures between (80 and 250) bar. The solubilites were measured experimentally through two methods: cloud point measurements and UV absorption. At lower pressures, and hence densities, the UV method was more accurate while at higher pressures and densities the solubilities measured by both methods were basically identical. Both of these compounds showed an increase in solubility with increasing temperature and density. The experimentally determined solubility was accurately modeled using an equation, derived from association laws, which had a strong solvent density and temperature dependence.
Executive Team Demography and Retention: The Relationship Between The Background of Decision-Makers and Success in Retaining Students

This article examines the demographic makeup of Texan university executive management groups in their relationship to institutional success as measured by student retention rates. Executive management teams that are diverse in age, time served as an executive, and the number of executives on the team may be particularly advantageous in enhancing total retention rates. Teams that are diverse on a broad range of demographic characteristics are likely to produce improved strategic decisions that may lead to relatively better performance, measured by rises in student retention. It can therefore be suggested that the setting up of an optimal executive team could lead to improved levels of retention. While this article does not make any indications as to what an optimal team might be or does prescribe a formula for producing one, it does indicate that one or more optimal executive team profiles exist. In the current higher education climate, the demographic composition of executive teams is a subject of critical importance to higher education researchers and leaders.
The significance of a thickened endometrial echo in asymptomatic postmenopausal patients.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance of a thickened endometrial echo in an asymptomatic, postmenopausal patient.Study design: A retrospective review was conducted of all women who underwent transvaginal ultrasonography between January 2003 and August 2008, were found to have an endometrial thickness of at least 5 mm and were subjected to endometrial sampling. Results Sixty-five postmenopausal women, without vaginal bleeding underwent ultrasonographic evaluation with subsequent endometrial sampling. The mean endometrial stripe thickness was 9.7 mm (range: 5.4–22). Four (6.2%) cases of simple/complex hyperplasia were identified and two (3.1%) cases of atypical hyperplasia were diagnosed. Zero (0%) specimens were identified as adenocarcinoma. Twenty-eight (43.1%) polyps and eleven (16.9%) leiomyomata were identified. Conclusion The use of transvaginal sonography as a screening tool in this population is not validated and need not trigger routine evaluation.
Gas exchange characteristics of Typha latifolia L. from nine sites across North America

Abstract Gas exchange characteristics were measured in the field for nine populations of Typha latifolia L. from Florida to Minnesota in North America. These populations spanned a substantial gradient in growing season length and environmental conditions. The purpose of this study was to assess geographic variability in stomatal conductance (gst) in T. latifolia populations, as well as to identify key environmental and plant factors that may affect gst and, potentially, trace gas emissions through stomata. Midday rates of net photosynthesis (A) and gst were measured under full sunlight conditions at each site, and more intensive measurements of diurnal and seasonal variability were made at selected sites. In general, A varied less than gst (1.5 vs. 3 fold) among sites with maximum A (27.4 μmol m−2 s−1) and gst (1076.7 mmol m−2 s−1) measured at the southern sites. We found that A and gst in T. latifolia increased significantly with increasing temperature and light level, and varied diurnally and seasonally. Moreover, stomata closed completely at night, in contrast to some other wetland plants. Both A and gst also increased significantly along the length of leaves from the base of plants to the upper canopy. Finally, although gst was quite variable, A did not appear to be limited by gst under typical field conditions. It was concluded that generalizations that stomata in wetland plants are relatively unresponsive to environmental factors are not consistent with field responses measured in T. latifolia. As a result, because gst may influence trace gas flux in this species, spatial and temporal variations in gst need to be considered when emissions are estimated.
Avulsion injuries of the thumb

Similar findings in a series of seven avulsions of the thumb suggest that this injury is a welldefined entity. In all cases avulsion was the result of catching the digit in a rotating machine. In most cases a glove was worn. The usual clinical findings included extrinsic tendon avulsion from the forearm, nerve avulsion from the median nerve within the carpal tunnel, extensive arterial damage in the amputated thumb, and partial degloving of soft tissues. Successful replantation was possible in every case. We believe that vein grafts should be used routinely, anastomosed to normal distal vessels. The site of nerve injury should be identified by dissection of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. Retrograde flaps should not be sutured for wound closure. We believe that replantation should be attempted in all cases of thumb amputation in which the part is available.
Ternary blends of sulphonated PEEK and two aromatic polyimides

Abstract Immiscibility has been confirmed by noting two glass temperatures for blends of two polyimides, a poly(ether imide) and a poly(amide imide). Phase diagrams provided here show how this pair can be compatibilized to show only a single glass transition by the addition of sulphonated PEEKs.
Near-Infrared Calibrations for Organic, Inorganic, and Mineralized Nitrogen from Poultry Litter

Near-infrared reflectance (NIR) spectroscopy was evaluated for use in predicting the plant-available N (PAN = NH₄–N + NO₃–N) and mineralizable N (MN) from poultry litter (PL) samples on an “as received” water content basis. Near-infrared reflectance scans were collected on 118 PL samples of variable water content without drying. The samples were not fresh but had been stacked or otherwise stored for various lengths of time and were closely representative of the PL applied to crop and pasture soils in Georgia (United States). Average PAN for the samples studied was 6.3 g kg⁻¹ PL (dry weight). One-hundred-day soil incubations with a loamy fine sand and a sandy clay loam were used to determine MN. An average of 19% of the organic N was mineralized after 100 d. Total PAN after 100 d (PAN₁₀₀ = PANᵢₙᵢₜᵢₐₗ + MN) averaged 33% of the total N for these samples. Near-infrared reflectance calibration models were developed with a modified partial least squares procedure. The results show that NIR calibration models can be developed on PL with variable water contents for total N (r² = 0.896, ratio of performance to deviation [RPD] = 3.5), NH₄–N (r² = 0.795, RPD = 3.2), NO₃–N (r² = 0.926, RPD = 2.7), uric acid N (r² = 0.909, RPD = 4.0), organic N (r² = 0.821, RPD = 3.6), water-soluble organic N (r² = 0.897, RPD = 4.0), MN (r² = 0.842, RPD = 2.6), initial PAN + MN (r² = 0.888, RPD = 2.6), total C (r² = 0.926, RPD = 3.7), and water content (r² = 0.996, RPD = 15.6). We conclude that drying is not necessary to develop highly successful NIR calibrations for N forms from PL.
Effects on recall of signals to text organization

College subjects read and recalled one of two versions of the same text. One version of the text contained signals to both the general organization of the text and to the organization of specific sentences in the text; the alternate version did not contain organizational signals. Overall recall was better for the text with signals than for the text without signals because recall of specifically signaled information was aided by signaling. The magnitude of the signaling effect was related to subjects’ text recall abilities: Signaling effects were larger for better recallers than for poorer recallers.
Intracellular delivery of dendrimer triamcinolone acetonide conjugates into microglial and human retinal pigment epithelial cells

Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is a potent, intermediate-acting, steroid that has anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activity. Intravitreal administration of TA has been used for diabetic macular edema, proliferative diabetic retinopathy and exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, the hydrophobicity, lack of solubility, and the side effects limit its effectiveness in the treatment of retinal diseases. In this study, we explore a PAMAM dendrimer-TA conjugate (D-TA) as a potential strategy to improve intracellular delivery and efficacy of TA to target cells. The conjugates were prepared with a high drug payload (∼ 21%) and were readily soluble in saline. Compared to free TA, D-TA demonstrated a significantly improved toxicity profile in two important target [microglial and human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)] cells. The D-TA was ∼ 100-fold more effective than free TA in its anti-inflammatory activity (measured in microglia), and in suppressing VEGF production (in hypoxic RPE cells). Dendrimer-based delivery may improve the efficacy of TA towards both its key targets of inflammation and VEGF production, with significant clinical implications.
Comparison of prolonged in vivo inhibitory activity of several potent bombesin (BN) antagonists on BN-stimulated amylase secretion in the rat

Abstract New BN analogues designed to be competitive receptor antagonists at the BN/gastrin releasing peptide receptor(s) can exhibit diverse properties ranging from full antagonist, partial agonist or weak agonist activity, depending on the assay system and animal species employed. Here we evaluate the following 3 antagonists which have the most potent receptor affinities in several in vitro assay systems and are representative of 3 main classes of BN antagonists for their in vivo effects on pancreatic amylase secretion in the rat: [D-Cpa6,Phe14,ψ13–14]BN(6–14), [D-Phe6]BN(6–13) propylamide, and [D-Phe6]BN(6–13) methyl ester. After injection in the rat, the methyl ester was clearly the most potent antagonist and completely inhibited BN-stimulated amylase release at the 20 nmol/kg (IV bolus) for about 2 h. In contrast, the propylamide analogue at the 200 nmol/kg (IV bolus) dose produced incomplete inhibition of amylase release. Inhibition was transient and lasted for only about 1 h, possibly reflecting the significant agonist activity of this latter peptide in the rat pancreatic amylase secretion test in vitro. The ψ-analogue, while being the longest acting analogue, was also incapable of lowering amylase to basal level at 50 times the BN dose, suggesting that it is a mixed agonist-antagonist in vivo as was also previously shown in vitro in the rat.
Metastable reactions in small cluster ions: (CO2)n+, (NH3)2H+ and (H2O)2H+

Abstract Pure mestastable transitions have been observed for loss of CO2 from (CO2)n+ for n = 2,3,4,5; for loss of NH3 from (NH3)2H+·; and for loss of H2O from (H2O)2H+. The experiments were performed in a high resolution reverse geometry instrument (V.G. Analytical ZAB-2F) fitted with a temperature variable high pressure source and single ion counting detection. Kinetic energy distributions have been obtained as have metastable/main-beam ratios as a function of source pressure. Phase space calculations on the kinetic energy distribution of the (NH3)2H+ reaction have been completed and suggest this reaction proceeds statistically.
THE REACTIONS OF AMMONIA WITH EXCESS SULFUR DIOXIDE

Abstract Ammonia reacts with sulfur dioxide during condensation, even at 10°K, yielding heterogeneous solids containing red (HNSO) x polymers in which sulfur disproportionates from the oxidation state IV to III and VI, and possibly to other values. Raman spectra indicate that upon warming (NS) x is formed. The latter is stable at room temperature, but catalyzes the auto-redox decomposition of sulfur dioxide yielding sulfate, sulfamic acid derivatives, dithionate, thiosulfate, polythionate and eventually elemental sulfur. IR spectra show that in rare gas matrices the initial product is HNSO, cis-thionylimide, regardless of the molar ratio of reagents. Upon warm-up ammonium disulfide (NH4)2S2O5 is also observed.
Undermatching in humans to amount of reinforcement

Human subjects were exposed to a concurrent-chain procedure in which amount of reinforcement in the terminal links was varied. The experimental procedure was designed to resemble as closely as possible animal operant procedures: verbal instructions were eliminated, the key-press operant response was shaped, and a "consummatory" response was required to receive reward. In addition to varying amount of reward, three different pairs of initial-link values in the concurrent chain were studied. The human subjects showed undermatching to amount of reinforcement (as do animal subjects). Moreover, the degree of undermatching tended to increase as the values of the initial links increased, consistent with Fantino's delay reduction hypothesis (1977) that choice for a larger reward decreases as the length of the initial link increases.
Direct observations of conformational distributions of intrinsically disordered p53 peptides using UV Raman and explicit solvent simulations

We report the first experimental measurements of Ramachandran Ψ-angle distributions for intrinsically disordered peptides: the N-terminal peptide fragment of tumor suppressor p53 and its P27S mutant form. To provide atomically detailed views of the conformational distributions, we performed classical, explicit-solvent molecular dynamics simulations on the microsecond time scale. Upon binding its partner protein, MDM2, wild-type p53 peptide adopts an α-helical conformation. Mutation of Pro27 to serine results in the highest affinity yet observed for MDM2-binding of the p53 peptide. Both UV resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) and simulations reveal that the P27S mutation decreases the extent of PPII helical content and increases the probability for conformations that are similar to the α-helical MDM2-bound conformation. In addition, UVRR measurements were performed on peptides that were isotopically labeled at the Leu26 residue preceding the Pro27 in order to determine the conformational distributions of Leu26 in the wild-type and mutant peptides. The UVRR and simulation results are in quantitative agreement in terms of the change in the population of non-PPII conformations involving Leu26 upon mutation of Pro27 to serine. Finally, our simulations reveal that the MDM2-bound conformation of the peptide is significantly populated in both the wild-type and mutant isolated peptide ensembles in their unbound states, suggesting that MDM2 binding of the p53 peptides may involve conformational selection.
The Incidence of Automobile Pollution Control

The incidence of a vehicle tax to reduce automobile pollution is examined over all affected groups: consumers, stockholders, pollution sufferers, and government expenditure beneficiaries. Gains and losses are estimated under alter native assumptions about industry pricing. The net effect of the tax is regressive if government expenditure benefits are distributed neutrally. Under different expenditure assumptions the tax effect becomes progressive, but the results suggest that a tax on emissions rather than vehicles may be more equitable as well as more efficient.
Prospective, conservative management of localized prostate cancer.

Background Currently, no randomized trials of the various treatment options for localized prostate cancer have been reported. Therefore, radical prostatectomy and external irradiation are offered as the primary management options and are thought by many to be curative. Methods All patients in this series with a confirmed diagnosis of cancer of the prostate, localized, were given the option of expectant management in addition to the popular ones. Therefore, 233 patients with localized Stage A and B cancer were observed prospectively and conservatively for a period of 22 years, with a management plan of watchful waiting for most patients until signs and/or symptoms of disease activity occurred. In 44 patients interstitial I-125 irradiation implantation and pelvic lymphadenectomy were performed in those who received surgical intervention. Results No patient received external irradiation or radical prostatectomy in this series. The overall survival of patients was not statistically different from the United States life-tables probability for men of similar ages when the study ended for reporting purposes in June 1989. Exclusive of the 6 patients lost to follow-up, 52 patients survived less than 3 years, whereas 181 patients have survived more than 3 years. Conclusions Because of the favorable results in this expectant management study, it appears prudent that all patients with localized prostate cancer should have this management option as well as radical surgery or external irradiation.
A Study of Subambient Pressure Tri-Pad Sliders Using Acoustic Emission

Acoustic emission is used to study the contact behavior of subambient pressure tripad sliders during start/stop and constant speed operation. The contact force at the slider/disk interface is determined as a function of velocity and the dependence of contact force on flying height is investigated. The results indicate that contact forces for typical subambient pressure tri-pad sliders are on the order of a few mN.
Postextubation laryngeal edema: a review with consideration for home discharge.

Respiratory complications occurring in the immediate postoperative periodare well known to the seasoned postanesthesia care unit nurse. The most common adverse respiratory events originating in this setting are airway obstruction, hypoventilation, hypoxemia, and pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents. The focus of this article details airway compromise secondary to edema of the larynx and adjacent structures as a consequence of translaryngeal intubation. Postextubation laryngeal edema is a relatively rare problem; however, severe episodes may have life-threatening ramifications. A review of pertinent airway anatomy and airflow dynamics as they relate to this compromised airway condition is presented. Risk factors for the development of postextubation laryngeal edema plus contemporary patient treatment strategies will be reinforced. Patient management issues are addressed, with emphasis placed on the ambulatory patient in which discharge to a remote location is anticipated.
Labeling of glucagon binding components in hepatocyte plasma membranes.

Abstract A photosensitive derivative of glucagon, 125 I-N ϵ -4-azido-2-nitrophenyl-glucagon, has been synthesized and used to specifically label glucagon binding proteins in hepatocyte plasma membranes. Photolysis of the derivative in the presence of a membrane suspension results in the incorporation of radioactivity primarily into membrane components with a molecular weight range of 23,000–25,000. The binding properties of the derivative are essentially identical to that observed for glucagon. The binding of 125 I-NAP-glucagon was completely inhibited in the presence of glucagon (3 μM) while greater than 90% of the covalent labeling was also inhibited in the presence of glucagon. These studies suggest that the labeled membrane protein may be a component of the glucagon receptor.
Phosphorylation-dependent and -independent Nuclear Import of RS Domain-containing Splicing Factors and Regulators

SR proteins and related RS domain-containing polypeptides are an important class of splicing regulators in higher eukaryotic cells. The RS domain facilitates nuclear import of SR proteins and mediates protein-protein interactions during spliceosome assembly; both functions appear to subject to regulation by phosphorylation. Previous studies have identified two nuclear import receptors for SR proteins, transportin-SR1 and transportin-SR2. Here we show that transportin-SR1 and transportin-SR2 are the alternatively spliced products of the same gene and that transportin-SR2 is the predominant transcript in most cells and tissues examined. While both receptors import typical SR proteins in a phosphorylation-dependent manner, they differentially import the RS domain-containing splicing regulators hTra2α and hTra2β in different phosphorylation states. We suggest that differential regulation of nuclear import may serve as a mechanism for homeostasis of RS domain-containing splicing factors and regulators in the nucleus and for selective cellular responses to signaling.
Transgenic overexpression of gremlin results in developmental defects in enamel and dentin in mice.

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and BMP antagonists play a crucial role in the regulation of tooth development. One of the BMP extracellular antagonists, gremlin, is a highly conserved 20.7-kDa glycoprotein. Previously, researchers reported that transgenic mice overexpressing gremlin under the control of the osteocalcin promoter (gremlin OE) exhibit a skeletal phenotype and tooth fragility. To further define the tooth phenotype, teeth and surrounding supporting tissues, obtained from gremlin OE at ages of 4 weeks, 2 months, and 4 months, were examined. The histological results demonstrate that gremlin OE exhibit an enlarged pulp chamber with ectopic calcification and thinner dentin and enamel compared with wild-type control. In vitro studies using murine pulp cells revealed that gremlin inhibited BMP-4 mediated induction of Dspp. These data provide evidence that balanced interactions between BMP agonists/antagonists are required for proper development of teeth and surrounding tissues. It is clear that ...
The Reicher-Wheeler effect and models of deep and phonological dyslexia

Abstract Current accounts of the functional impairment underlying phonological dyslexia (PD) do not postulate any disturbance of accessing the orthographic lexicon. For deep dyslexia (DD), only the righthemisphere hypothesis involves such a disturbance. However, neither PD nor DD subjects showed the normal word-superiority effects in a Reicher-Wheeler experiment (forced-choice identification of single letters that had been displayed briefly either as single letters or in words or nonwords with a backward mask). Since these word-superiority effects have been argued to lie at the word-specific level, the existing accounts cannot explain the observed results for both PD and DD subjects. Three other accounts are proposed. The most parsimonious account is a degradation hypothesis: as stress is placed on the reading system, reading performance will be seen to degrade gracefully across a number of different tasks and types of stimuli, resulting in symptoms of PD or DD and producing the correlated pattern of performance in oral reading, repetition, lexical decision, and the Reicher—Wheeler task, which was observed for the nine subjects reported here and which is consistent with many previously reported PD and DD subjects.
Physics and design of advanced IR bolometers and photoconductors.

The state-of-the-art in photoconductors and bolometers is reviewed, centering on the materials development and concepts of extrinsic Si and Ge devices. It is suggested that in the field of 2-D detector arrays the hybrid circuits containing a photoconductor or a photodiode array, bonded with In solder to a switched MOS readout device with up to 60 x 60 elements, will produce superior performance. Other systems discussed include charge-coupled devices, developed for visible-light imaging and adapted to IR imaging, and charge-injection devices, a monolithic combination of a standard photoconductor and a metal-insulator-semiconductor capacitor. Finally, it is pointed out that a nonequilibrium theory of bolometer noise demonstrates the possibility of reducing the traditionally accepted noise limits by 60 percent for Johnson noise and 30 percent for the noise from phonons in the thermal link of the bolometer.
Solid phase synthesis of hydroxamate peptides for histone deacetylase inhibition

Abstract An orthogonal protecting group strategy was devised to synthesize hydroxamic acid containing peptides for biomimetic histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition. The basic building block was a protected aminosuberic acid (Asu) derivative bearing a protected hydroxamate in the side-chain, related closely to HDAC inhibitors that are transition-state analogs of acetyllysine. These inhibitors include suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), currently being used to treat a variety of human cancers. This strategy was employed to synthesize a series of nonameric peptides related to actual HDAC substrates, derived from known sites of acetylation/deacetylation on the N-terminal tails of the histone core proteins H2A, H2B, H3, and H4. In each case the lysine residue was replaced by a hydroxamate-bearing side chain, to mimic the endogenous site of deacetylation. Mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) confirmed the success of automated solid-phase synthesis. These results suggest facile synthesis of a new class of HDAC inhibitors that may have enhanced selectivity for specific HDAC isoforms.
Gas−Liquid Mass Transfer in High-Pressure Bubble Columns

Volumetric gas−liquid mass-transfer coefficients are investigated in bubble columns under high-pressure and moderate-temperature conditions by utilizing an oxygen desorption method. The oxygen concentration in the liquid phase, water or Paratherm NF heat-transfer fluid, is monitored with a high-pressure optical fiber oxygen probe. The study covers operating conditions up to pressures of 4.24 MPa and up to temperatures of 92 °C. The superficial gas and liquid velocities vary up to 40 and 0.89 cm/s, respectively. Experimental results show that system pressure, temperature, gas and liquid velocities, liquid properties, and column dimensions are major factors affecting mass transfer. The mass-transfer coefficient increases with both pressure and temperature. Both gas and liquid velocities improve mass transfer due to higher turbulence at high-velocity conditions. Liquid properties and column dimensions also have significant effects on mass transfer. The effect of liquid velocity on kla is mainly due to the ch...
Bacterial phosphatidylcholine-preferring phospholipase C reversibly inhibits the membrane component of the NADPH oxidase in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes: implications for host defense.

Abstract Bacterial phosphatidylcholine-preferring phospholipase C (PC-PLC) has been recognized as a virulence factor and is implicated in the hemolytic and dermonecrotic properties associated with certain organisms. Moreover, recent data suggest that PC-PLC may be an important component in the signal transduction cascade by contributing to diacylglycerol (DAG) mass via the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine (PC). We have previously shown that PC-PLC can inhibit superoxide generation in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN). We now extend these observations and show that the mechanism of PC-PLC inhibition of superoxide generation is reversible inhibition of the membrane component of the NADPH oxidase (in a cell-free system) accompanied by expected generation of DAG and phosporylcholine. Addition of PC reversed the effects of the enzyme. Surprisingly, we also found that phosphatidic acid (PA), the hydrolysis product of phospholipase D, was also produced in intact PMN following PC-PLC exposure. Subsequent addition of the agonist N -formylmethionyl-phenylalanine resulted in further PA production. Restoration of PA in cell-free preparations partially restored superoxide generating capability. We conclude that PC-PLC may enhance bacterial virulence by inhibiting superoxide generation by human PMN, and that this effect is due to direct inhibition of the membrane component of the NADPH oxidase.
Small modular reactors: Uranium resource requirements, waste generation and proliferation risk assessment

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) with power levels of below 300 MW(e) appear to have several favorable characteristics and their deployment might help bring about a big change in how nuclear power fares in the future. Numerous SMR designs with distinct characteristics are under development in several countries. To capture the impacts of these different designs, we have developed notional models for two leading SMR types and performed neutronics calculations on these to estimate uranium resource requirements. These are then used to explore the resulting waste generation and potential proliferation risks.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Unique autonomic profile of the pulmonary veins and posterior left atrium.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the electrophysiologic profile of the pulmonary veins (PVs) and left atrium (LA) in response to autonomic manipulation. Background The parasympathetic innervation of the PVs and posterior left atrium (PLA) is thought to contribute to focal atrial fibrillation (AF). We hypothesized that autonomic effects would be more prominent in these regions. Methods In 14 dogs, epicardial mapping was performed in the PVs, PLA, and left atrial appendage (LAA) under the following conditions: baseline, 20-Hz cervical vagal stimulation (VS), propranolol (P), P + VS, and P + atropine. Effective refractory periods (ERPs) were measured, and conduction vectors were computed at multiple sites. Western blotting and immunostaining were performed for IKAch (Kir3.1/3.4). Results The VS and P + VS caused more ERP shortening in the PV and PLA than in the LAA. The P + atropine caused greatest ERP prolongation in the LAA. Cumulative ERP change (ERP difference between P + VS and P + atropine) was greatest in the LAA and corresponded with expression of Kir3.1/3.4 (LAA > PLA ≥ PV). The ERP change in response to vagal manipulation was most heterogeneous in the PLA; this corresponded with a pronounced heterogeneity of Kir3.1 distribution in the PLA. With VS and/or P, there was evidence of regional conduction delay in the PVs with a significant change in activation direction. Similar activation changes were not seen in the PLA and LAA. Conclusions The PVs and PLA demonstrate unique activation and repolarization characteristics in response to autonomic manipulation. The heterogeneity of vagal responses correlates with the pattern of IKAch distribution in the LA. The peculiar autonomic characteristics of the PVs and PLA might create substrate for re-entry and AF.
Force response to rapid and slow small amplitude length releases in isometrically contracting normal width and radially compressed trabeculae from rat heart

The early transient force response to small amplitude ramp length release, applied at the plateau of calcium activated force development, was studied in normal width and radially compressed trabeculae from rat right ventricle. Force recovery immediately following “rapid” (5 ms ramp duration) release was less in compressed than in normal width muscle. Force recovery immediately following “slow” (ramp duration >160 ms) release was virtually absent in both compressed and normal width muscle. The difference in force levels between the beginning and end of slow releases was small in normal width muscle; in compressed muscle a noticeable difference in force levels was seen. The rate of force recovery immediately following “rapid” release, as given by the rate constant obtained by fitting a single exponential equation to the force recovery vs time data, was not altered by compression. These results suggest that radial compression divides crossbridges into two distinct populations: one which cycles normally and another which cycles very slowly, if at all.
Coverage planning with finite resources

The robot coverage problem, a common planning problem, consists of finding a motion path for the robot that passes over all points in a given area or space. In many robotic applications involving coverage, e.g., industrial cleaning, mine sweeping, and agricultural operations, the desired coverage area is large and of arbitrary layout. In this work, we address the real problem of planning for coverage when the robot has limited battery or fuel, which restricts the length of travel of the robot before needing to be serviced. We introduce a new sweeping planning algorithm, which builds upon the boustrophedon cellular decomposition coverage algorithm to include a fixed fuel or battery capacity of the robot. We prove the algorithm is complete and show illustrative examples of the planned coverage outcome in a real building floor map.
The Place of Constitutionalism in the Education of Public Administrators

The American Society for Public Administration's code of professional ethics culminates in an admonition to respect, supports and even study constitutions, both state and federal. However, an understanding of constitutionalism is an often neglected or perfunctory element in the educational program for public administrators. In his influential l887 essay on public administration, Woodrow Wilson reasoned that because there is near universal agreement about constitutional principles in modern society, concentration should be chiefly on problems of effective management. The recent rebirth of concern for education in professional ethics generally and ethics in public administration in particular also reveals a tendency to approach the issues in a way that is still insufficiently connected to constitutional norms. The remedy for such difficulties is a critique of the ideological temper on the basis of what might be called an ethic of constitutional government, which to the extent that it can be elaborated satis...
Mapping wildfire evacuation vulnerability in the western US: the limits of infrastructure

Residential development in fire-prone areas of the western United States is a growing concern. The steady addition of homes to this region places more people and property at risk each year. In many areas housing is increasing without commensurate improvements in the road network, particularly in regards to the number, capacity and arrangement of community exit roads. This results in steadily increasing minimum evacuation times, as each additional household contributes to potential evacuation travel-demand in a wildfire. The goal of this research is to perform a comprehensive geographic search of the western U.S. for communities in wildfire-prone areas that may represent difficult evacuations due to constrained egress. The problem is formulated as a spatial search for fire-prone communities with a high ratio of households-to-exits and solved using methods in spatial optimization and geographic information systems (GIS). The results reveal an initial inventory and ranking of the most difficult wildfire evacuations in the West. These communities share a unique vulnerability in that all residents may not be able to evacuate in scenarios with short warning time. For this reason they represent prime candidates for emergency planning, and monitoring their development is a growing need.
Adiabatic theory for a single nonlinear wave in a Vlasov plasma

A large-amplitude high-frequency modulated wave launched by an external source significantly changes the plasma equilibrium. The adiabatic Vlasov distribution function of the electrons is found for one-dimensional initial- and boundary-value problems. The nonlinear dispersion relation is derived to all orders in the electric-field amplitude. A new nonlinear mode below the electron plasma frequency exists. In this state the plasma is described by a double-humped distribution function.
Metaphysical derivations of a law of refraction: Damianos and grosseteste

In a peculiar sense the optical treatises of Damianos (fourth century A.D.)1 and Robert Grosseteste (ca. 1167 1253) represent the same level of achievement in the history of optics. Although separated by nine centuries, Damianos and Grosseteste incorporate in their respective works on optics similar degrees of sophistication in the treatment of reflection and refraction. Both made much of the equality of angles of incidence and reflection, but failed to deal with more complex known phenomena of reflection. For instance, the focal point of a parabolic mirror, undiscussed by either of our authors, was accurately described by Apollonius2 and Alhazen.3 Likewise for refraction, briefly covered in the works to be analyzed below, there is only elementary treatment. Most intriguing is the quantitative law of refraction which they stated. Damianos and Grosseteste present to the reader the amazingly inaccurate notion that the angle of refraction is exactly half the angle of incidence. Furthermore, each writer finds his rationale for this quantitative law in the principles of economy and uniformity. Appealing to these a priori bases, each seized on the same form, though incorrect, for the law of refraction. The backgrounds and developments of the relevant optical treatises reveal the similar nature of their conceptual frameworks.
Homovanillic and 5-Hydroxyindeleacetic Acids in Cerebrospinal Fluid After Probenecid: Measurement of Brain Monoamine Oxidase Inhibition in Vivo:

SummaryThe effects of inhibition of monoamine oxidase (MAO) by pargyline on the concentrations of homovanillic acid (HVA) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of dogs are reported. Administration of pargyline reduced control levels of HVA and 5-HIAA and inhibited the probenecid-induced rise of these acid metabolites. The magnitude of this inhibition was related to the dose of pargyline. Pargyline inhibited the probenecid-induced rise in HVA more effectively than the rise in 5-HIAA, suggesting the existence of different monamine oxidases in dog brain. After completion of the pargyline treatment, the probenecid-induced rise of 5-HIAA and HVA returned to normal in about 1 month. Measurement of the acid metabolites in the CSF is a direct index not only of the MAO activity in brain but of the degree to which the metabolism of a specific monoamine is inhibited. Probenecid treatment makes this method sensitive enough that it might be applied for measurement of brain MAO activi...
Histone Demethylases in Colon Cancer

Cell growth and proliferation are controlled through different posttranslational modifications including demethylation, a process regulated by the demethylase enzymes. This review focuses on our current understanding of functional and therapeutic potentials of histone demethylases in colon cancer. Colon cancer is the third most common malignancy worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the USA. The key protein families responsible for demethylation of histones, histone demethylases, have emerged as new therapeutic targets in different cancer types including colon cancer. These families are of great interest as potential novel biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for therapy and prevention of colon cancer. In this manuscript, we will discuss our current understanding of the histone demethylase family and the role they play as epigenetic activators or repressors of different genes in colon cancer.
Ureteral obstruction following injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer: an infrequent but relevant complication.

Abstract Purpose To report our experience with ureteral obstruction after injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (Dx/Ha) to treat vesicoureteral reflux, and analyze its possible causes, management and outcome. Materials and methods Retrospective review of patients undergoing injection of Dx/Ha. The charts of patients with clinically relevant ureteral obstruction were evaluated for indications, prior interventions, technique of injection and volume injected. Video recordings obtained during injection were analyzed to detect possible technical errors. Results Fifty-four patients (87 ureters) were treated with Dx/Ha injection in a 5-year period. Five ureters (5.7%) in five patients (9.3%) developed significant ureteral obstruction requiring intervention. Manifestations of obstruction included pain in two patients, urinary tract infections in one and loss of function in one. Increased serum creatinine was observed in a patient with a transplanted kidney. Four obstructions resolved spontaneously (two after percutaneous nephrostomy, two after placement of a ureteral stent) and one required reimplantation. Review of the videos did not reveal any deviation from the usual technique. The volumes injected in the obstructed cases (0.7–1.2 ml) were in the usual range. Conclusions In this series, the incidence of post Dx/Ha ureteral obstruction was higher than previously reported. Although 4/5 cases resolved spontaneously, they required drainage to relieve symptoms or to improve renal function. Surgeons need to be aware of this complication and include its possible occurrence in the informed consent obtained prior to injection.
INFRARED SPECTRA OF ISOTOPIC HYPONITRITE IONS.

The infrared spectra of hyponitrite ions containing nitrogen-14 and/or nitrogen-15 have been obtained by the KBr disc and Nujol mull techniques. One infrared fundamental assigned by earlier workers to this ion was found to belong to water, but a new fundamental was observed beyond the spectral range studied previously. Frequencies of the fundamentals have been assigned and confirmed by normal coordinate analysis. Some infrared data on isotopic hyponitrous acids have also been obtained. The acid appears to have a C2h symmetry in the solid state.
Measurement of Cloud Droplet Size Spectra by Doppler Radar

Abstract A new technique is examined for using Doppler radars to extract information about the size spectrum of cloud droplets too small to have terminal velocities large enough to be resolvable by the radar. If the drops are very small, motions of the drops are dominated by turbulent fluctuations in the medium rather than their fall velocity. Their motion is then the convolution of the terminal velocity with the turbulent velocity probability density function, and size information about the population can be obtained only by deconvolving the spectra. Doppler radars can extract this velocity and size information, as well as cloud liquid and liquid flux, using a surprisingly simple and accurate technique assuming some functional form (e.g., gamma) for the drop number density spectrum. The method also allows Doppler radars to extract drop size information independent of up-/downdrafts in the medium in which they are embedded. Various gamma and lognormal functions are compared, and finally, a “Stokes range” ...
Critical evaluation of chest computed tomography scans for blunt descending thoracic aortic injury.

Background Although aortography has been the long-held "gold standard" for diagnosis of traumatic blunt aortic injury, advances in imaging technology offer less-invasive, more-rapid, and potentially more cost-effective evaluation. The purpose of this study was to review this hospital's experience with the screening and diagnosis of blunt aortic injury with emphasis on the critical evaluation of computed tomography (CT) scans for defining descending thoracic aortic injury. Methods A retrospective single-center analysis of all patients undergoing aortography to evaluate for blunt aortic injury between January 1, 1997, and August 31, 2004, was performed. A policy of relying on CT scans to definitively diagnose blunt aortic injury was not in force, and all patients with positive, equivocal, and negative screening CT scans with significant injury mechanism underwent subsequent aortography; this contributed to an unbiased analysis. A subgroup of patients imaged with the latest generation multislice CT scanners (July 1, 2003, to August 31, 2004) was separately analyzed with rapid three-dimensional reconstruction. Results Of 856 aortograms, 206 (24.1%) were preceded by chest CT scan. Of 31 patients with confirmed aortic injury, 20 had undergone CT scan with 16 positive for definite injury, 3 positive for possible injury, and 1 false-negative study. Of the 206 patients scanned, 114 (55.3%) showed possible injury, 76 (36.9%) were negative, and 16 (7.8%) were positive. Only 3 of the 114 with possible injury (2.6%) were true positives whereas 1 of the 76 negative scans (1.3%) was a false negative and all 16 positive scans were true positives. These data for CT scan imaging result in a sensitivity of 95%, a specificity of 40%, a positive predictive value of 15%, and a negative predictive value of 99%. Conclusions Chest CT is an acceptable screening tool based on prerequisite high sensitivity and ease of performance in the trauma patient suspected of having a descending thoracic aortic injury. Although the excellent negative predictive value resulted in an algorithm change at this institution, there were a significant number of equivocal scans that required subsequent aortography. Three-dimensional software reconstruction of the aorta can aid in diagnosing blunt aortic injury when findings are equivocal, but there will continue to be artifacts and limitations that require aortography for clarification.