cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparative effects of thrombopoietin and interleukin-6 on murine megakaryocytopoiesis and platelet production.

A thrombocytopoiesis-stimulating factor (TSF or thrombopoietin) derived from human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells is known to increase platelet production and to increase the number of morphologically unrecognizable early megakaryocytes, ie, small acetylcholinesterase-positive (SAChE+) cells in mice. Other recent studies have concluded that interleukin-6 (IL-6) also stimulates murine megakaryocytopoiesis both in vitro and in vivo. Some workers have suggested that IL-6 is thrombopoietin. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the effects of TSF and IL-6 on percent 35S incorporation into platelets, platelet sizes, and the percentages of SAChE+ cells in C3H mice, and to determine if they produce the same or different responses. The results showed that two or four injections of a partially purified TSF (total dose of 2 or 4 units (U) over a 1- or 2-day period) increased percent 35S incorporation into platelets (P less than .005) and platelet sizes (P less than .005) of both normal and rebound-thrombocytotic mice when compared with values from other mice treated with human serum albumin, the carrier protein for both TSF and IL-6. In eight separate experiments, it was shown that IL-6 (40,000 U, 4 micrograms), when given to rebound-thrombocytotic mice in four injections over a 2-day period, produced a small but significant (P less than .005) increase in percent 35S incorporation into platelets. Additional studies showed that negative results were obtained when similar high doses of IL-6 were administered in two doses over a 1-day period. TSF, but not IL-6, stimulated an increase in platelet sizes of normal mice (P less than .005 to 0.0005); however, IL-6 increased platelet sizes of rebound- thrombocytotic mice when given in two of four injections (P less than .05 to .0005). Also, IL-6, but not TSF, caused anemia in normal mice (P less than .0005) that were given two injections and tested 3 days later. TSF stimulated an increase (P less than .005) in the percentage of SA-ChE+ cells; whereas IL-6, even at high doses, did not. Because of the observed differences in biologic responses of these two cytokines, we conclude that TSF and IL-6 are separate entities.
Breast Cancer Surveillance Following Ovarian Cancer in BRCA Mutation Carriers.

BRCA1 or 2 mutations result in higher cancer risk for breast cancer (BC) and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) for carriers than exists in the general population. Optimal breast imaging surveillance ...
An Income Efficiency Model Approach to the Economic Consequences of Osha Cotton Dust Regulation

This paper used Data Envelopment Analysis IDEA) to test the economic consequences of the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) cotton dust standards by comparing the relative efficiency of firms affected by cotton dust in SIC 2200 and 2300 for the years before and after the Supreme Court upheld the regulation in 1981. Accounting-based inputs of common equity, total assets and production costs were minimized, while total revenue was maximized. Using available Compustat firms, we found that the surviving firms under stiff foreign competition had become more efficient during the post-regulatory period as predicted. The results indicate the usefulness of DEA as an alternative method of testing the economic consequences of a regulation.
The impact of pregnancy on antihypertensive drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics: current status and future directions.

INTRODUCTION Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are rising in prevalence, and increase risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Physiologic changes occur during pregnancy that alter drug pharmacokinetics. However, antihypertensive drugs lack pregnancy-specific dosing recommendations due to critical knowledge gaps surrounding the extent of gestational changes in antihypertensive drug pharmacokinetics and underlying mechanisms. AREAS COVERED This review (1) summarizes currently recommended medications and dosing strategies for non-emergent HDP treatment, (2) reviews and synthesizes existing literature identified via a comprehensive Pubmed search evaluating gestational changes in the maternal pharmacokinetics of commonly prescribed HDP drugs (notably labetalol and nifedipine), and (3) offers insight into the metabolism and clearance mechanisms underlying altered HDP drug pharmacokinetics during pregnancy. Remaining knowledge gaps and future research directions are summarized. EXPERT OPINION A series of small pharmacokinetic studies illustrate higher oral clearance of labetalol and nifedipine during pregnancy. Pharmacokinetic modeling and preclinical studies suggest these effects are likely due to pregnancy-associated increases in hepatic UGT1A1- and CYP3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism and lower bioavailability. Accordingly, higher and/or more frequent doses may be needed to lower blood pressure during pregnancy. Future research is needed to address various evidence gaps and inform the development of more precise antihypertensive drug dosing strategies.
Creating Value Through Operations: The Legacy of Elwood S. Buffa

Operations management has undergone significant changes since the original publication of Elwood Buffa’s Modern Production Management in 1961. We aim here to trace briefly some of the main currents which have characterized these changes. We also wish to illustrate, with three case studies with which we have been intimately involved, the nature of the challenges which operations management now faces in its role as a full partner in creating value for shareholders and customers.
Heat flow models for silicon-on-insulator structures

Self-heating has become a critical issue for modeling and reliability prediction of SOI devices and circuits due to the low thermal conductive BOX. Accurate and efficient thermal models for SOI MOSFETs and interconnects are therefore very much needed. This study presents several analytical steady-state SOI heat flow models at different levels of accuracy and efficiency for prediction of temperature profiles. The models describe the ID SOI silicon-film temperature profiles and 2D heat flow in FOX, accounting for heat loss to the substrate via BOX and FOX, heat loss to interconnects, and heat exchanges between devices. These models are applied to investigated thermal behavior in single-devices and 2-device SOI structures. Results are verified with the rigorous device simulation.
Exploring Information Sharing through California's 'Shine the Light' Law

Consumers have a dim understanding of how companies share personal information. To "shine a light" on information sharing practices, the authors employed a unique California law to survey the information sharing practices of 112 businesses. This follow-on study to a similar, smaller survey in 2007, found that four years after the law took effect, compliance is uneven. Fifty-three companies did not respond to the request at all. Only six companies disclosed how they shared information with third parties for their direct marketing purposes. Thirty-nine companies informed us that they do not share information, 5 provided an opt-out option for third party sharing, and 9 responses were categorized as "other."
The Applications and Limitations of Conventional Radiographic Imaging Techniques

Currently, periapical and panoramic radiography are the most common initial dental radiographic examinations in implant dentistry. In general, the appro-priate image for screening of maxillary sinus morphology and residual bone height is a panoramic radiograph. Periapical radiographs are commonly used to provide complementary information such as residual bone height and any adjacent pathoses. These two imaging modalities are not only able to provide mesio-distal (horizontal) and crestal-apical (vertical) measurements for implant size selection but also useful information on bone structure and density.
The reliability, availability, and maintainability of ground systems in support of space missions

The topic of Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM) is a dedicated section in the new Ground Systems Engineering Handbook being prepared at The Aerospace Corporation. This paper provides an overview of the RAM content of the handbook, which focuses on the RAM tasks to be accomplished by ground systems over the program lifecycle. RAM involvement begins with program inception and continues throughout program design, integration, tests, operations, and sustainment. The paper identifies and discusses the elements and considerations in the RAM program of a ground system in support of the spacecraft missions.
Evolving neurodynamic controllers for autonomous robots

The creation of architectures for controlling the behavior of autonomous systems is a difficult challenge. Evolutionary robotics uses neurally inspired models, rather than explicit symbolic systems, to evolve controllers for robots. Most approaches in evolutionary robotics have used abstract ANN or spiking single neuron models to evolve control architectures. In this paper we apply the evolutionary approach to creating a controller for an autonomous robot based on the aperiodic K-set neural population model. We introduce a discretization of the basic K-set units. We then demonstrate that the evolutionary approach evolves effective controllers for navigation tasks using the basic discrete units.
Criteria for Evaluating Journals in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and the Life Sciences

The purpose of this paper was to identify existing criteria that may be considered in evaluating journals in the scholarship of teaching and learning in agriculture, natural resources, and the life sciences. This can assist faculty authors and evaluators of promotion and tenure cases to explain indicators of the quality of the publications. The commonly accepted criteria are: peer review; acceptance rate; longevity; open access availability; inclusion in indexing/abstracting services; citation analysis; and expert opinion. These data were collected for a representative set of journals which indicated that: acceptance rates for the journals varied widely; most of the journals existed for at least 10 years; most of the journals did not have an ISI impact factor or Eigenfactor TM Score; the ERIC database was the predominant indexing resource; and there were no published lists of journals in these subjects compiled from expert opinion.
Effect of Ca2+ on the Synthesis of Deoxyribonucleic Acid in Virulent and Avirulent Yersinia

Virulent and potentially virulent cells of Yersinia (Pasteurella) pestis produce virulence or V and W antigens (VW+) but remain static at 37 C during aeration in enriched Ca2+-deficient media containing 0.02 m Mg2+. In this environment, which simulates mammalian intracellular fluid, VW+ cells possessed a functional cytoplasmic membrane as judged by concentration of 14C-isoleucine, release of 32P, and consumption of oxygen at rates comparable to those of dividing cells cultivated with Ca2+. Furthermore, rates of protein and ribonucleic acid synthesis were essentially identical in dividing and static VW+ cells and in mutant VW− organisms. However, the rate of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis in static cells was about 10% of that observed in dividing organisms. Accordingly, bacteriostasis of VW+ cells in the simulated intracellular environment is evidently caused by reactions directly associated with cessation of DNA synthesis rather than by alterations in the regulatory capacity of the cytoplasmic membrane.
Single cyclic nucleotide-gated channels locked in different ligand-bound states.

Cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels are directly activated by the binding of several ligands1,2,3,4,5,6. For these channels as well as for other allosteric proteins, the functional effects of each ligand-binding event have been difficult to assess because ligands continuously bind and unbind at each site. Furthermore, in retinal rod photoreceptors the low cytoplasmic concentration of cyclic GMP7 means that channels exist primarily in partially liganded states, so it is important to determine how such channels behave. Previous studies of single channels have suggested that they occasionally open to subconducting states at low cGMP2,3,8,9,10, but the significance of these states and how they arise is poorly understood. Here we combine the high resolution of single-channel recording with the use of a photoaffinity analogue of cGMP11,12 that tethers cGMP moieties covalently to their binding sites to show single retinal CNG channels can be effectively locked in four distinct ligand-bound states. Our results indicate that channels open more than they would spontaneously when two ligands are bound (∼1% of the maximum current), significantly more with three ligands bound (∼33%), and open maximally with four ligands bound. In each ligand-bound state, channels opened to two or three different conductance states. These findings place strong constraints on the activation mechanism of CNG channels.
Changing communication on researchgate through interface updates

Informal scholarly communication across the Web is a growing component of the scholarly communication infrastructure. This study describes the effects of three different interfaces on these informal channels. Interface design has a widely studied effect on user behavior, and new users often encounter barriers during accessing social media tools. Using a mixed methods approach, we collected and grouped 413 posts across three distinct interfaces of ResearchGate's communication platform. Our results show that scholars were more polite in the initial group discussion interface but that user interface design did not change the core communication patterns of sharing information and opinions among scholars. The site also transitioned from one-to-many discussions to one-to-one posts, but new users were generally welcomed to the scholarly communications.
Big Data and U.S. Public Policy

This paper examines the growing recognition of the phenomenon called “Big Data” and the policy implications it poses. It is argued that a core policy issue is personal and organizational privacy. At the same time there is a belief that analysis of “Big Data” offers potentially to provide public sector policy makers with extensive new information that would inform policy at unprecedentedly detailed levels. Despite this potential to improve the policy-making process data often contain individual identifiable information that would negatively impact American core values such as privacy. This makes the use of these data almost impossible. The paper recognizes that there may be a way to strip individual data from Big Data sets thereby making their analysis more policy useful. This approach is not at this time technically feasible but research is ongoing.
Investigation of chemical-bath-deposited ZnS buffer layers for Cu(InGa)Se/sub 2/ thin film solar cells

Chemical bath deposition of ZnS from solutions of ZnSO/sub 4/, thiourea and ammonia was carried out. Structural and optical properties of the ZnS films were studied. Cu(InGa)Se/sub 2/ solar cells fabricated with the ZnS buffer had higher quantum efficiency at short wavelengths but V/sub oc/, and FF were a little lower than those with CdS buffer. The best cell (total area: 0.47 cm/sup 2/) with the ZnS buffer was 13.9% efficient (V/sub oc/: 618 mV, J/sub sc/: 32.4 mA/cm/sup 2/ FF: 0.693).
Characterization of Textured Ceramics by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy: I, Concepts and Theory

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is shown to be a powerful and versatile technique for the detection and characterization of preferred orientation effects in insulating ceramics. While the technique is applicable to both cubic and noncubic ceramics, in this work the conceptual and theoretical basis for the analysis of textured cubic materials is established. The practical utility of the EPR technique is illustrated for the specific case of a paramagnetic impurity (Mn2+) in the cubic ceramic MgO. For this example, EPR methods show that texturing occurs in a cold pressed, sintered body and that the preferred orientation corresponds to 〈111〉 axes lying nearly parallel to the direction of the cold-pressing force. The advantages of the EPR technique in characterizing preferred orientation effects in ceramic materials are discussed and compared with more traditional diffraction-based and optical characterization methods.
Pyrimidine Ribonucleotides with Enhanced Selectivity as P2Y6 Receptor Agonists: Novel 4-Alkyloxyimino, (S)-Methanocarba, and 5′-Triphosphate γ-Ester Modifications†

The P2Y(6) receptor is a cytoprotective G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activated by UDP (EC(50) = 0.30 microM). We compared and combined modifications to enhance P2Y(6) receptor agonist selectivity, including ribose ring constraint, 5-iodo and 4-alkyloxyimino modifications, and phosphate modifications such as alpha,beta-methylene and extension of the terminal phosphate group into gamma-esters of UTP analogues. The conformationally constrained (S)-methanocarba-UDP is a full agonist (EC(50) = 0.042 microM). 4-Methoxyimino modification of pyrimidine enhanced P2Y(6), preserved P2Y(2) and P2Y(4), and abolished P2Y(14) receptor potency, in the appropriate nucleotide. N(4)-Benzyloxy-CDP (15, MRS2964) and N(4)-methoxy-Cp(3)U (23, MRS2957) were potent, selective P2Y(6) receptor agonists (EC(50) of 0.026 and 0.012 microM, respectively). A hydrophobic binding region near the nucleobase was explored with receptor modeling and docking. UTP-gamma-aryl and cycloalkyl phosphoesters displayed only intermediate P2Y(6) receptor potency but had enhanced stability in acid and cell membranes. UTP-glucose was inactive, but its (S)-methanocarba analogue and N(4)-methoxycytidine 5'-triphospho-gamma-[1]glucose were active (EC(50) of 2.47 and 0.18 microM, respectively). Thus, the potency, selectivity, and stability of pyrimidine nucleotides as P2Y(6) receptor agonists may be enhanced by modest structural changes.
The Analysis of Incomplete Block Designs

Abstract Under the usual assumptions for the recovery of inter-block information there may exist two independent variance-ratio tests for testing every null hypothesis pertaining to the treatments. A method is suggested for combining two independent tests, and an example shows the gain in power from using the second test. Exact confidence limits are given for the ratio of the inter-block variance to the intra-block variance.
The SHROB model of syndrome X: effects of excess dietary sucrose.

The obese SHR (SHROB strain, Koletsky rat) is a spontaneous genetic knockout for the leptin receptor gene and shows many of the abnormalities that cluster in the human Syndrome X. The SHROB expresses genetic obesity, spontaneous hypertension, hyperinsulinemia, extreme insulin resistance, and hyperlipoproteinemia (Type IV).1,2 The syndrome of abnormalities in the SHROB results from a null mutation of the leptin receptor.3 In the 1970s inbred SHROB (Koletsky rats) were sent to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where they were outbred and crossed with rats from various genetic backgrounds. These various substrains bearing the fak mutation were termed “corpulent” rats. The so-called SHR/N-cp strain is similar to the parent SHROB line, but was crossed with a separate SHR subline at NIH. The SHR/N-cp rat is reported to develop severe diabetes, with random plasma glucose levels over 500 mg/dl, when fed a 54% sucrose diet.4 This same diet induced a fourfold increase in urinary protein excretion, implying an acceleration of kidney disease.5 The parent SHROB strain is entirely normoglycemic on normal chow, although a 20-fold elevation in fasting plasma insulin implies profound insulin resistance. A further difference is that SHROB are markedly hypertensive, whereas SHR/N-cp show only mild hypertension. In the present study, we sought to determine whether the fak mutation on its original genetic background, the SHROB strain, promotes deleterious responses to a high sucrose diet, similar to the SHR/N-cp model bearing the same fak mutation. Excess dietary sucrose is thought to exacerbate the metabolic components of Syndrome X. We tested the effects of a 60% sucrose diet on SHROB.
Synthesis of Cored Dendrimers with Internal Cross-Links

The activity of dihydroceramide desaturase was determined in phosphate buffer (0.1m, pH 7.4), with d-erythro-N-octanoylsphingosine as substrate. The inhibitor (at the indicated concentrations) and the substrate (15 nmol) were solubilized (15 nmol of BSA in phosphate buffer/ethanol 9:1 v/v, 100 mL), combined with the microsome suspension (1 mg of protein) and NADH (30 mL, 1 mm in phosphate buffer), and made up to a final volume of 300 mL with phosphate buffer. The suspension was incubated for 30 min at 378C, and the reactions were terminated by the addition of CHCl3 (0.5 mL) containing d-erythro-N-hexanoylsphingosine (1 nmol) as an internal stan- dard for quantification. The lipids were extracted with CHCl3 (2 250 mL), the combined organic layers were evaporated under a stream of nitrogen, and the residue was derivatized with bistrimethylsilyltrifluoroacetamide (50 mL, 258C, 60 min). After derivatization, CHCl3 (50 mL) was added and the samples were stored atˇ 808C. Instrumental analyses were carried out by gas chromatography coupled to electron impact (70 eV) mass spec- trometry using a Fisons gas chromatograph (8000 series) coupled to a Fisons MD-800 mass-selective detector. The system was equipped with a nonpolar Hewlett - Packard HP-1 capillary column (30 m 0.20 mm i.d.), which was programmed from 1008C to 3408 Ca t 78C min ˇ1 . Analyses were carried out in the selected ion monitoring mode. Selected ions were m/za 311, 313, 230, and 258. Dwell (time for which a given mass is monitored) was set at 0.02 s and the mass span at 0.5.
701-5 Endovascular Stents Reduce Restenosis by Eliminating Geometric Arterial Remodeling: A Serial Intravascular Ultrasound Study

Previous studies have shown that (1) stents reduce restenosis, (2) stents do not recoil, and (3) geometric remodeling may be an important contributing factor in restenosis. Therefore, to understand the mechanisms by which stents reduce restenosis, we analyzed serial (post-intervention and follow-up @ 5.0 ± 2.9 months) intravascular ultrasound and quantitative angiographic studies in 33 stented lesions and compared the results to 135 nonstented lesions treated with various devices (30 PTCA, 57 directional and 26 rotational atherectomy, and 22 excimer laser angioplasty). Post-intervention and followup external elastic membrane (EEM), stent, and lumen areas were used to calculate (1) plaque area, (2) late lumen loss (Δ lumen area), (3) geometric remodeling (Δ EEM area or Δ stent area in stented lesions and Δ EEM area in nonstented lesions), and (4) tissue growth Δ (stent-lumen) area in stented lesions and Δ plaque area in nonstented lesions. Stent Non-stent p Post-intervention EEM area (mm 2 ) 29.3 ± 118 204 ± 65 l 0.0001 Lumen area (mm 2 ) 8.5 ± 39 6.1 ± 2.4 l 0.0001 Plaque area (mm 2 ) 20.9 ± 9.3 14.3 ± 5.7 l 0.0001 Angiographic % diameter stenosis 9 ± 18 19 ± 14 0.0011 Follow-up EEM area (mm 2 ) 27.7 ± 9.5 187 ± 6.0 l 0.0001 Lumen area (mm 2 ) 6.5 ± 4.4 35 ± 3.0 l 0.0001 Plaque area (mm 2 ) 22.0 ± 8.0 15.2 ± 5.5 l 0.0001 Angiographic % diameter stenosis 36 ± 18 51 ± 26 0.005 Restenosis # (%) 8(23%) 77(57%) 0.0017 Late lumen loss (mm 2 ) 2.4 ± 2.6 2.6 ± 2.7 NS Remodeling (mm 2 ) 02 ± 13 1.7 ± 2.9 0.0061 Tissue growth (mm 2 ) 2.2 ± 2.4 1.0 ± 2.3 0.0076 Geometric remodeling is less (0.2 ± 1.3 vs 1.7 ± 2.9 mm 2 ) and tissue growth is greater (2.2 ± 2.4 vs 1.0 ± 2.3 mm 2 ) in stented lesions than in nonstented lesions. We Conclude Stents reduce restenosis by achieving a better primary (post-procedural) result and by eliminating geometric remodeling. The elimination of geometric remodeling offsets a stent-related increase in plaque mass (tissue growth or neointimal hyperplasia) to prevent restenosis.
Inhibitory effects of ribavirin alone or combined with human alpha interferon on feline infectious peritonitis virus replication in vitro.

The antiviral activities of ribavirin (1-beta-D-ribofuranosyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide; virazole), either alone or in combination with recombinant human leukocyte (alpha) interferon (rHuIFN-alpha), were evaluated against feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV) in feline kidney-cell cultures. The 50% inhibitory dose (ID50) of ribavirin for uninfected, rapidly dividing cells was approximately 17 micrograms ml-1 whereas the ID50 for FIPV was 2.5 micrograms ml-1. The therapeutic index (TI) of ribavirin (i.e. the ratio of the minimum cell-toxic dose to minimum virus-inhibitory dose) was 6.8. Although a dose-dependent inhibition of viral infectivity occurred at non-toxic doses, maximum antiviral effects (greater than or equal to 4 log10 reduction in FIPV) occurred at cytotoxic doses. When low or moderate doses of ribavirin were combined with either 10 or 100 U of rHuIFN-alpha ml-1, the resulting antiviral effects were significantly greater than the sum of the observed effects from either ribavirin or rHuIFN-alpha alone. Significant synergistic interactions with rHuIFN-alpha occurred at ribavirin doses of 1, 5, 12.5 and 25 micrograms ml-1. Synergistic combinations of rHuIFN-alpha and ribavirin produced up to an 80-fold or a 200-fold relative increase in FIPV antiviral activities compared with that produced by equivalent doses, respectively, of ribavirin or rHuIFN-alpha alone. In cell growth studies, the addition of either 10 or 100 U of rHuIFN-alpha ml-1 to test doses of ribavirin did not increase the anticellular effect observed with ribavirin alone; seemingly, the potentiation of ribavirin antiviral activity by rHuIFN-alpha was independent of any additive cytotoxic effects. Potentially, synergistic combinations of the two antiviral agents in vivo may decrease the therapeutic dose of ribavirin required for inhibition of FIPV and thus reduce drug toxicity.
A new electrocardiographic marker for sympathetic nerve stimulation: modulation of repolarization by stimulation of stellate ganglia

Activation of cardiac sympathetic nerves alters ventricular repolarization; however, these changes remain poorly characterized. The goal of this study was to examine effects of sympathetic stimulation on repolarization to identify electrocardiographic markers of sympathetic activation. Pigs underwent median sternotomy and bilateral thoracotomy to expose the stellate ganglia. Changes in T-wave duration, amplitude, repolarization vector, and time from peak to end (Tp-Te) were continuously monitored. Within 15 seconds of unilateral left or right stellate ganglion (LSG/RSG) stimulation, T-wave amplitude increased 6- and 4.5-fold, respectively, in lead aVF. T-wave duration and Tp-Te both increased 200% during LSG stimulation but only 50% and 30%, respectively, with RSG stimulation. During LSG stimulation, frontal and horizontal T-wave vectors, respectively, changed from 1.9° ± 22.8° and 333.8° ± 9.7° at baseline to 83.4° ± 3.9° (inferiorly) and 306.7° ± 1.8° (posteriorly). During RSG stimulation, frontal and horizontal T-wave vectors changed from 348.2° ± 21.6° and 333.8° ± 10.3° before stimulation to 280.7° ± 4.6° (superiorly) and 118.1° ± 5.6° (anteriorly). During stellate stimulation, T-wave vectors are displaced to angles specific for LSG activation (posteroinferiorly) or RSG activation (anterosuperiorly); T-wave amplitude, duration, and Tp-Te increase; and ST-duration decreases. Displaced repolarization vector and changes in T-wave morphometrics provide a novel marker of unilateral sympathetic nerve stimulation.
Preventable risk factors for the delivery of very low birth weight infants in Richmond, Virginia.

Abstract Our aim was to identify preventable risk factors for very low birth weight (VLBW) in our urban patient population in order to target intervention programs toward those areas. Retrospective chart review was performed on all patients who delivered VLBW infants between March 1, 1995 and February 28, 1996 at the Medical College of Virginia Hospitals. VLBW patients were then compared with mothers who delivered infants >1,500 g during the same period. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical analysis. P value
What can medical education learn from Facebook and Netflix

Such Web sites as Facebook and Netflix use sophisticated algorithms to create user-focused content. The authors of this commentary discuss how a similar method could be used to improve medical educ...
Effects of Depressurization Upon Largemouth Bass

Abstract The effects of induced, rapid depressurization upon largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), simulating conditions common to deep-water angling, were examined. Depths of 0.0, 9.1, 18.3, and 27.4 m were simulated in a large hyperbaric chamber. Statistical analyses indicated that significant mortality occurred when fish were depressurized from simulated depths of 18.3 and 27.4 m. Individuals depressurized from all depths experienced bloating and some external hemorrhaging, while those depressurized from simulated depths of 18.3 and 27.4 m experienced severe internal hemorrhaging and formation of gas bubbles in their blood. If largemouth bass are caught at depths greater than 18.3 m, at least 40% mortality will result from depressurization alone. Therefore, anglers may have to refrain from fishing at these depths if they intend to release their catch.
Radiation-Hard Design Principles Utilized in CMOS 8085 Microprocessor Family

A microprocessor family has been designed in radiation-hardened bulk, silicongate CMOS. The three main family members are logic emulations of Intel NMOS devices: SA3000, a general-purpose 8-bit central processing unit (CPU) (Intel 8085A); SA3001, a 256 × 8-bit static RAM with two 8-bit I/O ports, one 6-bit I/O port and a timer (Intel 8155/56); SA3002, a 2K × 8-bit ROM with two 8-bit I/O ports (Intel 8355). This paper describes the design principles and methodology used to realize fully static, fully complementary CMOS devices capable of withstanding more than one megarad total dose. These designs are latchup-free and are built on epitaxial substrates using a 3-micron gate length technology. In order to achieve this level of radiation tolerance, the radiation characteristics of the process must be measured and the radiation effects accommodated in all phases of the design.
Wear of enamel opposing zirconia and lithium disilicate after adjustment, polishing and glazing

Abstract Objectives To compare the wear and opposing enamel wear of adjusted (A); adjusted and polished (AP); and adjusted and glazed (AG) zirconia and lithium disilicate. Methods Specimens (n = 8) were prepared of lithium disilicate (A, AP, and AG), zirconia (A, AP, and AG), veneering porcelain, and enamel (control). Surface roughness was measured for each ceramic. In vitro wear was conducted in the UAB-chewing simulator (10 N vertical load/2 mm slide/20 cycles/min) with lubricant (33% glycerin) for 400,000 cycles. Isolated cusps of extracted molars were used as antagonists. Scans of the cusps and ceramics were taken at baseline and 400,000 cycles with a non-contact profilometer and super-imposed to determine wear. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey–Kramer post hoc tests (alpha = 0.05). Results A and AP zirconia showed no detectable signs of wear, and the veneering porcelain demonstrated the most wear. All other ceramics showed significantly less volumetric loss than the veneering porcelain, comparable to enamel–enamel wear. Veneering porcelain produced the most opposing enamel wear (2.15 ± 0.58 mm3). AP lithium disilicate and zirconia showed the least amount of enamel wear (0.36 ± 0.09 mm3 and 0.33 ± 0.11 mm3 respectively). AG lithium disilicate had statistically similar enamel wear as AP lithium disilicate, but A lithium disilicate had more enamel wear. A and AG zirconia had more enamel wear than AP zirconia. No statistically significant difference was seen between the enamel–enamel group and any other group except the veneering porcelain. Conclusions Zirconia has less wear than lithium disilicate. Wear of enamel opposing adjusted lithium disilicate and zirconia decreased following polishing. Clinical significance Zirconia experiences less and lithium disilicate experiences equivalent occlusal wear as natural enamel. It is preferable to polish zirconia and lithium disilicate after adjustment to make them wear compatible with enamel. Veneering of zirconia and lithium disilicate should be avoided in areas of occlusal contact to prevent enamel wear.
A note on the statistics of the largest geomagnetic storms per solar cycle

Abstract This note points out a problem with the way in which extreme value distributions have been fit to the intensities of the largest geomagnetic storms per solar cycle. An alternative method is described. This method is applied to observations of the three largest geomagnetic storms in solar cycles 11–22.
A Scan Laser Heat Source for Nondestructive Testing Applications

Evaluations were made using an infrared nondestructive testing technique employing scan laser heating of the specimen. Thermal images were obtained with a newly developed two dimensional reflective scanner coupled to a 50 watt CO2 laser to irradiate the specimen and a thermal imaging camera to view the specimens irradiated surface. The technique shows a capability of providing a real-time nondestructive test for subsurface defects in a variety of materials and structures. It allows the laser heat source and infrared camera to be remotely positioned on the same side of the specimen under test making it possible to examine large specimens.
Intraglomerular inhibition maintains mitral cell response contrast across input frequencies

Odor signals are transmitted to the olfactory bulb by olfactory nerve (ON) synapses onto mitral/tufted cells (MTCs) and external tufted cells (ETCs); ETCs provide additional feed-forward excitation...
Structural change and the aggregate poverty rate.

This paper measures the extent to whichrecent increasesin the aggregate povertyrate are attributable to the changing distribution of employment across industries. We decompose the total poverty rate change over the 1976-1983 period into components attributable to changesin employment sharesand changes in the incidence of poverty within industries. Our results show that the poverty rate increase resulted primarily fromthe decline in employment rates in general and from increases in the incidence of poverty within all industries, rather than from the shift of employment opportunities between sectors. The growth of service sector employment in particular has not contributed to the increased incidence of poverty in the United States.
Subclavian Artery Injury, Vertebral Artery Dissection, and Arteriovenous Fistulae following Attempt at Central Line Placement

Vertebral artery dissection and arteriovenous fistulas are uncommon complications of vascular access and angiographic procedures. There are several cases of iatrogenic vertebral artery dissection secondary to central line placement reported in the literature. Only a few iatrogenic arteriovenous fistulae have been reported, but none also involving the dissection of the vertebral artery. In each of these cases, the fistulae were treated by direct ligation of the fistulous communication. We present an unusual case of an iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula and vertebral artery dissection as a result of left subclavian central line placement. The left subclavian artery and associated fistula were successfully repaired using a self-expanding endovascular graft.
Abstract B42: The lineage-specific transcription factor ASCL1 defines a subtype of neuroendocrine non-small cell lung cancers with poor prognosis and points to potential therapeutic targets

The future of cancer therapy relies on identifying certain patient populations that will respond to one treatment but not another based on the properties of the tumor and additionally creating specific drugs that target genetic pathways required for a particular tumor9s formation, growth, and maintenance. We have developed a pre-clinical model for a genetically identifiable clade of non-small cell lung cancer that exhibits neuroendocrine features. We utilized whole-genome mRNA expression array data from 119 NSCLC cell lines to identify a class of NSCLC lines that fit the neuroendocrine phenotype (NE-NSCLC). We identified 11 NSCLC cell lines (9.2%) that display a distinct neuroendocrine gene signature. A gene expressed in all putative NE-NSCLC cell lines is the potent neural-specific transcription factor ASCL1. We hypothesize that ASCL1 acts as a “lineage dependent oncogene” for NE-NSCLC and that associated with ASCL19s function in the molecular pathogenesis of these lung cancers will be a gene expression profile that contributes to the malignant phenotype, which will provide insight towards therapeutic targeting of this subset of NSCLC. In this regard, ASCL1 ChIP-Seq data combined with genome wide mRNA expression data identified a subset of genes whose expression appears to be regulated by ASCL1. In NSCLC patient populations, tumors expressing ASCL1 and the neuroendocrine gene signature demonstrated impaired prognosis compared to the other NSCLCs. Knockdown of ASCL1 in representative NSCLC cell lines reduced target gene expression, caused significant cell cycle defects, and induced marked apoptosis. NSCLC cell lines expressing ASCL1 demonstrate a cancer stem cell marker phenotype similar to that of small cell lung cancer, providing clues to the pathogenesis of the NE-NSCLC disease subset. Our results suggest that neuroendocrine gene expression in NSCLC is of clinical relevance, that ASCL1 is required for survival of the NE-NSCLC disease subset, while the integrated ASCL1 ChIP-Seq and mRNA expression data provide a roadmap for systematically searching for therapeutic targets for this phenotype and their mechanistic role in a cancer stem cell (initiating cell) subpopulation within these tumors.
Resonance Raman studies of the carbonmonoxy form of catalase Evidence for and effects of phenolate ligation

Resonance Raman spectra are reported for the carbon monoxide (CO) adduct of catalase formed from the reaction of peracetic acid or hydrogen peroxide with the azide adduct of catalase in the presence of CO. The expected three normal vibrations of the FE-CO fragment are detected at 1,908,593 and 543 cm-1 for the nu(C-O), delta(Fe-C-O) and nu(Fe-CO), respectively. The expected coordination of the phenolate group in this adduct is confirmed by the enhancement of an internal vibration of phenolate, nu 19a at 1,515 cm-1, and an extraordinary intensity enhancement of the nu(Fe-CO) mode.
Views of Evidence-Based Practice Among Faculty in Master of Social Work Programs: A National Survey:

Objective: A national online survey assessed the views of 973 faculty members in master of social work programs regarding their receptivity toward, definition of, and views of disparate sources of evidence pertinent to evidence-based practice (EBP) and the teaching of EBP. Method: Due to Internet-related technical difficulties, the response rate could not be precisely determined; however, it was at least 33% and conceivably much higher. Results: Although the large majority (73%) of respondents expressed a favorable view toward EBP, disparities are identified among respondents in both the definition of EBP and views regarding the EBP research hierarchy. Conclusion: Efforts appear to be needed to increase agreement regarding the definition and conceptualization of EBP among educators, with special attention to divergent views regarding what constitutes sufficient evidence to guide practice decisions or to convey that an intervention is evidence-based.
Demographic, Psychosocial, and Behavioral Factors Associated With Survival After Heart Transplantation

Background Heart transplantation requires substantial personal, financial, and psychosocial resources. Using an existing multisite data set, we examined predictors of mortality at 5 to 10 years after heart transplantation. Methods All 555 participants completed a self-report quality of life instrument. Of these patients, 55 (10%) died 5 to 10 years after heart transplantation. Statistical analyses included frequencies, means, Pearson correlation coefficients, and Cox proportional hazard modeling. Results Educational level and higher levels of social and economic satisfaction were predictive of improved survival. Conversely, married status, more cumulative infections, the presence of hematologic disorders, higher New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, and poor adherence to medical care predicted worse survival. Conclusions Demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and behavioral factors were important predictors of long-term survival after heart transplantation. These findings have important implications for patient selection for heart transplantation, as well as for posttransplantation care.
Location of Service Facilities for the Elderly

Senior centers provide a variety of supportive services for independent elderly adults. In many metropolitan areas, the elderly population is growing and redistributing from central cities to suburbs, where accessibility to senior centers is limited. Policy analysts need to locate senior centers to best meet changing demands for service. We present alternative hierarchical facility location models for senior centers applied to Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. We find that a model that minimizes consumer disutility and unserved demands is preferred to one that maximizes utility alone, and that the former model is well-behaved in response to changes in structural parameters.
Comparison of Ring Resonator Relative Permittivity Measurements to Ground Penetrating Radar Data

Field experience has shown that soil conditions can have large effects on the ability of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to detect buried targets of interest. The relative permittivity of the soil determines the attenuation of the radar signal. The contrast between the relative permittivity of the soil and the target is critical to determining the strength of the reflection from the target. In this paper, to measure the relative permittivity of the soil and various target fill materials, a microstrip ring resonator is placed in contact with a material medium. The real and imaginary parts of the relative permittivity are determined from (1) changes in resonant frequencies (between 600 MHz and 2 GHz) and (2) the quality factor of the resonator, respectively. Measurement results are compared to data collected by a GPR.
Blunt trauma to the axillary artery

Blunt trauma to the axillary artery is an unusual injury. Patients with these injuries may not present with "classic" signs of arterial insufficiency; therefore a high index of suspicion is necessary to avoid delay in treatment. This article presents three patients with unusual injuries to the axillary artery and discusses their management.
The effect of high pressure on the ion pair equilibrium constant of alkali metal fluorides: A spectrophotometric study

Bromophenol blue indicator was used in UV-visible spectrophotometric measurements to study ion association constants of alkali metal fluorides. The equilibrium constants for the ion pair formation of the alkali metal fluorides were determined as a function of ionic strength at one atmosphere pressure and 25°C. The effect of pressure on these association constants was measured at a constant total ionic strength of 1.0 mol-kg−1 over a pressure range of 1 to 2000 atmospheres at 25°C. The pressure dependences of the stoichiometric association constants of the alkali metal fluorides are given by: lnK LiF * =0.77–2.47×10−4P−2.12×10−8P2; lnK NaF * =0.53–1.08×10−4P−1.66×10−8P2; lnK KF * =0.24–4.41×10−5P−7.15×10−8P2; lnK RbF * =−0.17–8.65×10−5P−4.51×10−8P2; and lnK CsF * = −0.37–1.14×10−4P−6.82×10−8P2, where P is the pressure in atmospheres. The stoichiometric molar volume and compressibility changes for ion pair formation of the alkali metal fluorides were evaluated from the pressure dependence of K MF * data. The thermodynamic association constants were also calculated making use of activity coefficient data from the Pitzer equations. The partial molal volume and compressibility changes for ion pair formation of each alkali metal fluoride are reported.
Performance evaluation of 3D imaging systems based on GD&T

Abstract We present a method for evaluating the performance of short-range non-contact 3D imaging systems. This method is intended to address the lack of internationally-recognized standards for the characterization of these systems. We begin by presenting characterization-specific terminology before introducing a geometrical and dimensional tolerancing-based approach for the characterization of these systems. This approach focuses on what these systems are typically used for rather than being designed specifically for specific classes of 3D imaging systems. A Portable Characterization Target (PCT) is then presented as an artifact that provides a simple way to perform the characterization of short-range non-contact 3D imaging systems.
In utero bisphenol A exposure disrupts germ cell nest breakdown and reduces fertility with age in the mouse

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a known reproductive toxicant in rodents. However, the effects of in utero BPA exposure on early ovarian development and the consequences of such exposure on female reproduction in later reproductive life are unclear. Thus, we determined the effects of in utero BPA exposure during a critical developmental window on germ cell nest breakdown, a process required for establishment of the finite primordial follicle pool, and on female reproduction. Pregnant FVB mice (F0) were orally dosed daily with tocopherol-striped corn oil (vehicle), diethylstilbestrol (DES; 0.05 μg/kg, positive control), or BPA (0.5, 20, and 50 μg/kg) from gestational day 11 until birth. Ovarian morphology and gene expression profiles then were examined in F1 female offspring on postnatal day (PND) 4 and estrous cyclicity was examined daily after weaning for 30 days. F1 females were also subjected to breeding studies with untreated males at three to nine months. The results indicate that BPA inhibits germ cell nest breakdown via altering expression of selected apoptotic factors. BPA also significantly advances the age of first estrus, shortens the time that the females remain in estrus, and increases the time that the females remain in metestrus and diestrus compared to controls. Further, F1 females exposed to low doses of BPA exhibit various fertility problems and have a significantly higher percentage of dead pups compared to controls. These results indicate that in utero exposure to low doses of BPA during a critical ovarian developmental window interferes with early ovarian development and reduces fertility with age.
DNA damage responses: Beyond double-strand break repair

The RAG endonuclease generates DNA double strand breaks during antigen receptor gene assembly, an essential process for B- and T-lymphocyte development. However, a recent study reveals that RAG endonuclease activity affects natural killer cell function, demonstrating that such double strand breaks, and the responses they elicit, may have broad cellular effects.
Hygro-responsive membranes for effective oil–water separation

There is a critical need for new energy-efficient solutions to separate oil-water mixtures, especially those stabilized by surfactants. Traditional membrane-based separation technologies are energy-intensive and limited, either by fouling or by the inability of a single membrane to separate all types of oil-water mixtures. Here we report membranes with hygro-responsive surfaces, which are both superhydrophilic and superoleophobic, in air and under water. Our membranes can separate, for the first time, a range of different oil-water mixtures in a single-unit operation, with >99.9% separation efficiency, by using the difference in capillary forces acting on the two phases. Our separation methodology is solely gravity-driven and consequently is expected to be highly energy-efficient. We anticipate that our separation methodology will have numerous applications, including the clean-up of oil spills, wastewater treatment, fuel purification and the separation of commercially relevant emulsions.