cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Aerodynamic Design of Compressor Airfoils for Robustness Under Geometric Uncertainty

This paper considers the aerodynamic design of compressor blade sections for improved performance robustness in the face of geometric uncertainty caused by noisy manufacturing processes. A probabilistic, gradient-based optimization method was used to redesign subsonic and transonic compressor airfoils subjected to geometric variability. Three different design goals were considered: Minimizing the deterministic profile total pressure loss coefficient, minimizing the mean value of loss coefficient, and minimizing the loss variability. In both transonic and subsonic applications, deterministic minimization of loss coefficient produced essentially the same airfoils as the probabilistic minimization of mean loss. However probabilistic minimization of loss variability produced clearly different airfoils which achieved reductions of 20% or more in standard deviation of loss compared to the minimum-loss designs. For the subsonic application, the improved robustness of the minimum variability design was achieved through a reduction in diffusion immediately downstream of the leading edge on the pressure side. This reduction in diffusion resulted in less sensitivity of the boundary layer to geometric variability in the leading edge region. For the transonic application, the robustness improvement was achieved by redesigning the suction side to produce a constant pressure region immediately downstream of the passage shock, which had the effect of desensitizing the boundary layer to variability in shock strength and position. A meanline model was used to assess the impact of probabilistic airfoil section optimization on overall compressor performance. While the mean efficiency was found to be nearly the same for all designs, the robust blade designs produced a decrease in compressor efficiency variability of 50% compared to the minimum-loss designs.© 2004 ASME
Immune-related alterations in aged gut-associated lymphoid tissues in mice.

To study whether senescence-induced changes in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) are mainly quantitative, several parameters were examined in three age groups of BALB/c mice (1–2, 12–14, and 24–28 months old). A substantial senescence-associated decline in the number of lymphoid cells was found in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) and spleen (SPN), and especially in the Peyer's patches (PP), but not in the lamina propria (LP). The distribution of lymphocyte subsets in these tissues was also altered with an absolute reduction of T cells—in particular, a L3T4+helper/inducer T-cell marker-bearing subset. These changes were most remarkable in PP, followed by MLN. The in vitroproliferative reactivity and the production of each isotype-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) by PP, MLN, and SPN were profoundly affected when T-cell-dependent (Td) B-cell mitogens were used, but minimally affected when T-cell-independent (Ti) B-cell mitogens were used. The isotype-specific Ig content of small-intestinal perfusates was also influenced by aging, but only to a minor extent, as exemplified by a decrease in IgA levels in the fasting condition. Thus, despite the defects in the quantity and distribution of lymphocytes in aged PP and MLN, the finding of little change in the total amount of secreted IgA in aged intestine suggests that gut IgA-mediated luminal immune responses could remain nearly unaltered with senescence. The constancy of intraluminal IgA levels could be of physiological significance in host defense at the gut mucosal surface in aged mice.
The Aarskog syndrome

The observations on a third family with a recently described pattern of malformation, the Aarskog syndrome, serve to further delineate this entity. Affected males are consistently short in stature and have ocular hypertelorism, a widow's, peak, thickened and down-turned superior ear helices, a bulbous and broad-appearing nose, a hypoplastic maxilla, varying degrees of pectus excavatum, a mildly protruding umbilicus, and an unusual scrotal skin configuration. Inconsistent features are small broad hands and feet, hypoplasia of the fifth finger with but a single ventral crease, mild webbing between fingers, cryptorchidism, and inguinal hernias. Our findings of partial expression in two obligatory carrier females and one of their daughters suggest X-linked semidominant inheritance, although autosomal dominant with partial expression in the heterozygous female is not excluded.
Microwave spectroscopy and structures of two conformers of 6-methyl-3-heptyne and three of 2-methylpentane

Abstract From its microwave rotational spectrum, 6-methyl-3-heptyne (MHept, ethyl isobutyl acetylene) has been characterized in two conformations of Cs and C1 symmetry with the opposing alkyl groups arranged syn-eclipsed or nearly so about the C C axis. The dominant interaction determining the dihedral angle about the C C axis is the small dispersion attraction between the separated ethyl and isobutyl groups. The three lowest energy conformers of 2-methylpentane (MPane), MHept without C C, have been characterized from their microwave spectra. MPane has more conformations than MHept because the C3 C4 bond in MPane has a substantial ethane-like barrier supporting gauche and anti conformations while MHept’s tiny C2 (C3 C4) C5 torsional barrier has only a single minimum. Ab initio calculations of both compounds at the MP2/6-311+G(d,p) level agree with the experimental results.
Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy during maximal coronary artery vasodilation with adenosine.

Pharmacologic coronary vasodilation as an adjunct to thallium-201 myocardial perfusion scintigraphy provides an important alternative form of stress that has been increasingly used in patients unable to perform an exercise stress test. Although dipyridamole has traditionally been used for this purpose, there are several compelling reasons why adenosine may be a preferable agent. First, dipyridamole acts by blocking the reuptake and transport of adenosine, which is the effective substance responsible for coronary vasodilation. Second, exogenous adenosine has a very short half-life ( Our experience to date, with nearly 1,000 patients studied, shows the adenosine thallium-201 test to be practical and well tolerated, with high sensitivity (87%) and specificity (94%) for detecting coronary artery disease.
Programmable external automatic antitachycardia pacing as a bridge to definitive therapy in patients with recurrent sustained ventricular tachycardia.

The efficacy and safety of external programmable automatic antitachycardia pacemakers (ATPs) used in the critical care setting for recurrent sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) was evaluated. Ten patients who had failed a mean of 4.0 ± 1.4 antiarrhythmic medications (range 2–7) and who had previously required electrical cardioversion for VT were enrolled. Prior to ATP use, successful overdrive pacing termination of VT was demonstrated in all patients. IntertachTM (lntermedics, Inc.; n = 9) and OrthocorR II (Cordis, Inc.; n = 1) ATPs were attached to temporary bipolar transvenous or epicardial pacing leads. Mean patient age was 66.4 ± 11.5 years, and mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 22 ± 7.5%. At the time of initial ATP use, mean VT cycle length was 347 ± 88 msec (range 280-550 msec). A burst scanning antitachycardia pacing algorithm was used in each patient; one patient was also treated with a fixed rate burst adapted to VT cycle length. The duration of ATP use ranged from 2–25 days (median 5), successfully terminating < 3,369 VT episodes (median 3, range 0 to < 3,103 episodes per patient). Two episodes of ATP induced rate acceleration occurred, each successfully terminated by the ATP. Only two patients required external cardioversion during ATP use, one for primary ventricular fibrillation and one for rapid polymorphic VT associated with antiarrhythmic drug withdrawal. ATPs also provided antibradycardia pacing and allowed for serial programmed ventricular stimulation. No complications were associated with transvenous catheter or ATP use. Temporary use of external ATPs acted as a bridge to definitive antiarrhythmic measures: endocardial resection (n = 2), defibrillator implant (n = 2), chronic amiodar-one therapy (n = 4), electrophysiologically guided antiarrhythmic therapy (n = 1), and cardiac transplantation (n = 1). Thus, temporary automatic antitachycardia pacing provides a safe, rapid, and effective means of VT termination in a critical care setting, with a low frequency of tachyarrhyfhmia rate acceleration, enabling its use as a bridge to definitive treatment for sustained VT.
Influence of proton-donors on the reduction mechanism of diacetyl on dme

Abstract The effect of the phosphoric and acetic acids concentration on the reduction mechanism of diacetyl on a mercury electrode is studied. Reaction orders with respect to these proton donors at potentials corresponding to the foot of the polarographic wave indicate that the acid species are liable to protonate the free radical resulting from the first electron transfer.
Kautilya on international trade policies

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present Kautilya's ideas on international trade.Design/methodology/approach – A non‐technical descriptive approach is followed.Findings – Kautilya implicitly proposes a theory of gains from trade and recommends imports promotion rather than export promotion.Research limitations/implications – It is indicated that our current understanding regarding international trade during ancient times is quite inadequate.Practical implications – There will be no need for current endless negotiations if countries commit themselves to Kautilya's policy of import promotion.Originality/value – The paper provides insights into trade patterns during the ancient times.
Carbamate derivatives of felbamate as potential anticonvulsant agents

Several monocarbamate compounds derived from felbamate were synthesized and 11 target compounds (1, 4, and 6–14) were initially evaluated in mice MES and PTZ models in our laboratory. Carbamate compounds with varying substituents on the oxygen (1–4) gave anticonvulsant activity with a wide range of ED50 in MES test from 300 mg/kg (4) and compounds with different groups on the nitrogen (5–14) also were quite active in the range of 15 mg/kg (14) to 170.5 mg/kg (6). This suggested that the spatial limitation in the MES model seemed flexible especially on the nitrogen end. All tested compounds showed some activity against mice scPTZ test, but none had the ED50 value <50 mg/kg. Ten selected compounds (1 and 6–14) for subsequent pharmacological evaluation in NIH all gave positive mice MES activity except 8 and 9, which were unexpectedly active in rats after further evaluations. Among the compounds, 1, 8, and 9 advanced to the quantitative study and 1 and 9 provided the highest PI values, 15 and 21, respectively, in the rat oral MES test.
The Spirit of Private Government.

The affairs of the Teamsters Union have suddenly loomed with an importance seldom recognized in any private association of this highly associated country. No doubt a major source of the recent interest in the internal politics of this and other unions is the fascination exerted by intimations of colorful criminality. Senator McClellan's committee, indeed, has gone far to indulge the widespread taste for this variety of sensation. Some segments of public opinion have obviously been gratified to be given ammunition useful in a campaign to weaken the economic and political power of organized labor. Meanwhile, the prospect for a few elementary reforms has suddenly improved. The American labor movement has acted to cleanse itself of some of the stain which has drawn so much attention. Legislative proposals designed to insure integrity of union elections and financial management are actively agitated. Nevertheless, publicity and agitation have so far done little to illuminate the basic problem. The public hue and cry about gangsters quite possibly may have hindered rather than helped understanding of what is involved. The solutions currently in view may prove destructive to the very institutions whose diseases they purport to cure. If a strong external system of limitations is imposed on union power, the unions may lose much of their usefulness within the social system or their sense of grievance may be whetted to a dangerous edge. If extensive regulation of internal union affairs is legislated, the unions may become so debilitated that their subsequent survival will be a matter of indifference. In either event, a serious loss will be the result. It is a matter of some importance, then, to assess the nature and the scale of the problem that is involved. As it has so far been presented the problem has been made to appear as one of corruption, gangsterism and exploitation by officers in the Teamsters and other unions. The evidence for this sort of accusation is too extensive to be easily dismissed. Moreover, this type of charge is by no means new. Scandals involving the New York waterfront unions, to take only one conspicuous example, have a long history. An unsavory documentation involving numerous other lines of work could be drawn for a quite considerable portion of twentieth century history. The evils are serious and they are already old. It is perhaps their continuing and long established nature that is most disturbing. Accordingly it is worth asking why they have persisted to such a scale and degree that legislators are seriously considering legislation that may endanger the free associations of the labor movement. The answer in general terms is that the presently conspicuous evils are, if not superficial phenomena, the extreme consequences of inadequate govern-
DNA binding protein from ovaries of the frog, Xenopus laevis which promotes concatenation of linear DNA

A soluble extract of Xenopus laevis ovaries catalyzed ATP-dependent concatenation of linear duplex DNA molecules. DNA ligase and a unique X. laevis DNA binding protein were required for the formation of concatemers. A linear DNA concatenation system was reconstituted using T4 DNA ligase and homogeneous X. laevis DNA binding protein. This system catalyzed intermolecular ligation of DNA molecules into linear concatemers of up to ten or more times monomer length.
Short-Chain Fatty Acid Fermentation Products of Plant Fiber Affect Glucose Metabolism of Isolated Rat Hepatocytes

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced during fermentation of plant fibers and absorbed from the colon may affect hepatic glucose metabolism. We examined the effects of different fatty acids on rates of glucose production and glycolysis in isolated rat hepatocytes. Acetate, butyrate, and long-chain fatty acids significantly increased glucose production from lactate. However, propionate and valerate significantly decreased glucose production from lactate. Whereas 5 mM butyrate increased the incorporation of [14C]lactate into [14C]glucose by 80%, 5 mM propionate produced a 67% decrease. Glycolysis was significantly decreased by acetate, butyrate, and long-chain fatty acids. However, propionate and valerate significantly increased glycolysis. Thus propionate, which inhibits hepatic acetate metabolism, acts to increase glucose use and decrease glucose production. Plant fibers may influence hepatic glucose metabolism via their SCFA metabolites.
A pilot study to assess ground-level ambient air concentrations of fine particles and carbon monoxide in urban Guatemala.

Ambient concentrations and the elemental composition of particles less than 2.5 microm in diameter (PM2.5), as well as carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations, were measured at ground-level in three Guatemalan cities in summer 1997: Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango, and Antigua. This pilot study also included quantitative and qualitative characterizations of microenvironment conditions, e.g., local meteorology, reported elsewhere. The nondestructive X-ray fluorescence elemental analysis (XRF) of Teflon filters was conducted. The highest integrated average PM2.5. concentrations in an area (zona) of Guatemala City and Quetzaltenango were 150 microg m(-3) (zona 12) and 120 microg m(-3) (zona 2), respectively. The reported integrated average PM2.5 concentration for Antigua was 5 microg m(-3). The highest observed half-hour and monitoring period average CO concentrations in Guatemala City were 10.9 ppm (zona 8) and 7.2 ppm (zonas 8 and 10), respectively. The average monitoring period CO concentration in Antigua was 2.6 ppm. Lead and bromine concentrations were negligible, indicative of the transition to unleaded fuel use in cars and motorcycles. The XRF results suggested sources of air pollution in Guatemala, where relative rankings varied by city and by zonas within each city, were fossil fuel combustion emitting hydrocarbons, combustion of sulfurous conventional fuels, soil/roadway dust, farm/agricultural dust, and vehicles (evaportion of gas, parts' wear).
Spatial stigma and health inequality

A large body of literature has considered the way that places contribute to the health of their residents. The bulk of this research has considered the numerous risks and resources that are contained within the bounded spaces of neighborhoods and communities. Only recently have scholars begun to consider how these material and social conditions interact with the symbolic dimensions of place to further affect health. In this conceptual paper, we draw on a broad literature in order to develop a conceptual framework that connects negative representations of place, or spatial stigmas, to health. We argue that spatial stigma can affect health through three primary pathways: (1) access to material resources; (2) processes of stress and coping; and (3) processes related to identity formation and identity management. Our model suggests that spatial stigma is likely an important and understudied mechanism through which disadvantaged places contribute to multiple physical and mental health outcomes. Furthermore, by...
Anaerobic reductive dechlorination of perchloroethylene using periodic processes

The anaerobic sequencing batch biofilm reactor (AnSBBR) was used to select for, enrich, and modify the physiological state of one or more of the many possible microbial consortia that can participate in the reductive dechlorination of perchloroethylene (PCE). The AnSBBRs used in these studies are periodically operated, up-flow, packed column, biofilm reactors. Initial AnSBBR studies demonstrated that PCE, fed at 8 mg/L, could be reductively dechlorinated to cis-1,2-dichloroethylene (cDCE) using either methanol or acetate as a co- substrate. PCE fed at over 160 mg/L could be completely reductively dechlorinated to ethylene when acetate was used as the co-substrate and methanol as the solvent for PCE addition. These studies support the hypothesis that the extent of reductive dechlorination is determined by environmental parameters which effect the physiological state of the bacterial consortium.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
AMELIORATION OF HYPERCALCIURIA FOLLOWING POLIOMYELITIS BY 17-ETHYL,19-NORTESTOSTERONE (NILEVAR)

The effects of 17-ethyl, 19-nortestosterone (Nilevar) on calcium, phosphorus and steroid metabolism were studied in 9 extensively paralyzed patients convalescing from anterior poliomyelitis. Nilevar was given orally in daily dosages approximating 1 mg. per Kg. of body weight. There was a mean reduction in urinary calcium excretion of 45.4 per cent and a mean reduction in urinary phosphorus excretion of 26.2 per cent during treatment. Fecal calcium and phosphorus excretion (measured in 3 subjects) as well as urinary creatinine and 17-hydroxycorticosteroid excretion showed no sustained, significant change. In 2 patients, mild cholestatic jaundice, developed, which cleared promptly when Nilevar was withdrawn; other sideeffects of the drug, when present, were minimal.
Risk preferences and purchase of energy-efficient technologies in the residential sector

Perceived risk in future energy cost savings of energy efficient technologies has been well identified as a major barrier to the adoption of such technologies. However, direct empirical evidence of the impact of consumer risk aversion on the adoption of energy efficient technologies has been limited. In this paper, we elicit consumer risk preferences using a multiple price list experiment tailored to household energy decisions. We then use the elicited risk preferences to explain consumers' self-reported historical purchase of energy efficient appliances and installation of energy efficiency retrofitting technologies. Using data from 432 homeowners from Arizona and California, USA, results show that more risk averse consumers are less likely to adopt energy efficient technologies (except for the case of energy efficient air-conditioners). In addition, the findings provide evidence that households' perceived mobility as measured by the probability of moving within five years, can amplify the negative impact of risk aversion on the adoption of energy efficiency retrofitting technologies. Overall, the results provide implications for policy makers and companies involved in promoting energy efficient technologies.
Use of Phonological Codes during Eye Fixations in Reading and in On-Line and Delayed Naming Tasks

Abstract Short passages were read and classified as being either meaningful or nonmeaningful in Experiment 1. Each passage contained a target consisting of a meaningful (appropriate) base word, a nonmeaningful pseudohomophone or pseudoword, or an inappropriate word. Classification errors were particularly high when passages contained a pseudohomophone. Viewing durations on pseudohomophone errors were equivalent to viewing durations on base words, indicating that pseudohomophone errors were not the result of a post-lexical error recovery process. Instead, pseudohomophone errors appeared to result from the use of assembled phonology in the selection of lexical representations. Shorter first fixation durations on phonologically regular words than on exception words, during the reading of semantically congruent sentences in Experiment 2, were consistent with this view. However, phonological regularity and consistency effects during sentence reading (Experiments 2 and 3) did not correspond to effects of phonology during target naming (Experiments 4 to 7). The comparison of delayed and on-line naming tasks revealed virtually identical regularity and consistency effects, indicating that effects of phonology in that task may not arise during the initial phase of word recognition.
Phonetic shapes: an interactive, sonic guest book

Sound exists only in the moment, and cannot be referenced or searched, except in the mutable memories of people. Because of this, it has been an overlooked modality and social information channel, particularly where nonverbal communication cues and identity are concerned. Yet, it encapsulates a person's identity as effectively as a fingerprint or signature. Sound is even more useful when combined with other modalities, like the visual and gestural. In order to use the modality of sound effectively, however, we need tools that simultaneously analyze, persist, and present the important information in sound. What if you could capture identity and meaning in sound, and give it additional affordances, that go beyond those of written communication? In this paper, we explore the voice as identity and as the carrier of nonverbal information in the context of a sonic guest book.
Negative Differential Resistance in Dense Short Wave Infrared HgCdTe Planar Photodiode Arrays

A novel room-temperature negative differential resistance (NDR) effect is proposed, theoretically analyzed, and quantitatively modeled for short-wave infrared (SWIR) HgCdTe photodiode detectors in dense double-layer planar heterostructure arrays with a 2.5 $\mu \text{m}$ cutoff at 300 K. The predicted NDR results from nonequilibrium minority carrier suppression—with associated Auger suppression and negative luminescence—imposed by dense array geometry under uniform reverse bias. Using three-dimensional quantitative modeling, we evaluate representative dark current–voltage characteristics at different array pitch values. The predicted dark current and NDR resulting from structural variations in junction radius are consistent with the analytic dense array lateral diffusion current suppression model. The NDR effect and its relation to geometric parameters should be considered when attempting to minimize dark current in high-temperature SWIR HgCdTe photodiode arrays.
Molecular selection in the roots of evolved life and mind

The proteinoid model for the emergence of cellular life in a stepwise evolution has been extended. The properties of the resultant laboratory protocell have been further catalogued. These include syntheses of peptide and internucleotide bonds, which thus provide an explanation of locale for the emergence of the coded genetic mechanism. Other properties found include arrays of activities of the bioelectrical type, which suggest an investigatable component of consciousness. Throughout the sequence from amino acids to electrically active protocell, molecular selection is manifest an nonrandom reactions and interactions.
Controlling health care costs in the military: the case for using financial incentives to improve beneficiary personal health indicators.

Abstract Objective To provide insight on the feasibility and utility of implementing a broad based incentive program for health within the Military Health System (MHS). Method Published studies, articles, and information on the use of financial incentives in the military setting and to promote healthy behaviors were reviewed. Results Health care costs in the MHS have more than doubled over the past decade. The high prevalence of modifiable risk behaviors such as tobacco abuse, physical inactivity and obesity and their associated chronic diseases are accounting for a significant percentage of the growth. One evidence-based approach to address this issue would be the implementation of a broad based incentive program for health whereby all MHS beneficiaries would be eligible to receive some type of financial remuneration for meeting positive personal health metrics (e.g. not smoking or a normal body mass index). This approach if designed appropriately has the potential to have a high level of acceptance within the current beneficiary population since financial incentives are already used widely in the military to help meet overall manpower requirements. Conclusion The use of a MHS wide financial incentives program to instill healthy behaviors in beneficiaries’ may be an effective means to curb rising healthcare cost.
High‐performance organic‐inorganic hybrid plastic substrate for flexible displays and electronics

— An inorganic-dominated silica/polyimide (PI) hybrid film has been successfully developed for the fabrication of flexible AMOLEDs. The existence of networks between silica particles in the PI matrix have been confirmed by 3-D tomography, respectively. The inorganic—organic hybrid film was achieved by roll-type processing with a variety of attractive properties, such as low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE, 20 ppm/°C), high transmittance (within the wavelength range of 400–700 nm), excellent flexibility, and high Young's modulus. Additionally, a flexible color-filter, an AMEPD, and a flexible touch film were fabricated on hybrid film.
Effect of bariatric surgery on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background & Aims Weight loss in overweight or obese individuals results in marked improvement or resolution of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia. However, the overall effect of weight loss on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis is an effort to explore the effect of weight loss after bariatric surgical procedures on NAFLD. Methods We performed an electronic literature search of published articles on bariatric surgery and liver histology since inception to September of 2007. Primary outcome measures were improvement and/or resolution in the 3 components of NAFLD (steatosis, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis) after bariatric surgery–induced weight loss. A pooled proportion of patients with improvement or resolution was calculated for steatosis, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis using a random effects model. Heterogeneity among the studies was assessed using the I 2 (inconsistency) statistic and subgroup analyses. Results A total of 15 studies (766 paired liver biopsies) were selected for final data extraction. The percentage reduction in mean body mass index after bariatric surgeries ranged from 19.11 to 41.76. The pooled proportion of patients with improvement or resolution in steatosis was 91.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 82.4%–97.6%), in steatohepatitis was 81.3% (95% CI, 61.9%–94.9%), in fibrosis was 65.5% (95% CI, 38.2%–88.1%), and for complete resolution of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis was 69.5 (95% CI, 42.4%–90.8%). Conclusions Steatosis, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis appear to improve or completely resolve in the majority of patients after bariatric surgery–induced weight loss.
Activation of protein kinase-C inhibits vitamin D receptor gene expression.

The abundance of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptors (VDR) in cultured cells has been shown to vary in direct relation to the rate of cell proliferation. This study examines the question of whether the growth-factor mediated up-regulation of VDR is due to direct modulation of VDR gene expression or is secondary to the stimulation of cell cycle events. Mitogenic agents, such as basic fibroblast growth factor and phorbol esters, were found to cause significant decreases in VDR abundance, while substantially stimulating proliferation of NIH-3T3 cells. Potent phorbol esters, such as phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate, whose biological actions have been shown to be mediated through the activation of protein kinase-C, down-regulated VDR in a time- and dose-dependent manner. An inactive phorbol ester, 4α-phorbol-12,13-didecanoate, which does not activate protein kinase-C, did not alter VDR levels. Desensitization of protein kinase-C by prolonged exposure of cells to phorbol esters elimin...
Evaluation and Clinical Implications of Aortic Valve Calcification Measured by Electron-Beam Computed Tomography

Background— Electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) is used to measure coronary calcification but not for aortic valve calcification (AVC). Its accuracy, association with aortic stenosis (AS) severity, and diagnostic and prognostic value with respect to AVC are unknown. Methods and Results— In 30 explanted aortic valves, the AVC score by EBCT (1125±1294 Agatston units [AU]) showed a strong linear correlation (r=0.96, P<0.0001) with valvular calcium weight (653±748 mg) by pathology that allowed estimation of calcium weight as AVC score/1.7, with a small standard error of the estimate (53 mg). In 100 consecutive clinical patients, we measured AVC by EBCT and AS severity by echocardiographic aortic valve area (AVA). The AVC score was 1316±1749 AU (range 0 to 7226 AU). Intraobserver and interobserver variabilities were excellent (4±4% and 4±10%, respectively). AVC and AVA were strongly associated (r=0.79, P<0.0001) but had a curvilinear relationship that suggested that AVC and AVA provide complementary infor...
Opening Space for Dialogue between Postmodern Therapists and Evangelical Couples

Integrating spirituality and religion into clinical practice has become a significant area of interest for marriage and family therapists. The present article focuses more specifically on describing postmodern interventions that make therapy a meaningful and congruent experience for evangelical clients. The use of these interventions must grow out of an understanding of evangelical Christians as well as an ability to compare essential postmodern and evangelical thinking. Equipped with this basic knowledge and compatible interventions, the postmodern family therapist can implement an approach that is consistent with the language, relationships, and stories of evangelical clients. Finally, this article offers three case examples to illustrate this postmodern approach to the spiritual experiences of evangelical couples.
Oral bacteria and cancer.

Over a number of years, epidemiological studies established several well-defined risk factors for cancer, including age, heredity, diet, tobacco use, chronic viral infections, and inflammation. Paradoxically, the success of these studies left little room for incorporation of any new factors or causative agents, and, consequently, the idea that a bacterial infection could contribute to cancer was generally disregarded. However, landmark studies in the early 1990s established Helicobacter pylori as a causative agent of gastric cancers, resulting in a paradigm shift regarding the relationship between microbial agents and cancers [1]. Indeed, in 1994, H. pylori became the first bacterial species to be officially recognized by the World Health Organization as a definite cause of cancer in humans. Since then, there has been a growing body of evidence supporting an association between specific microorganisms, including those in the oral cavity, and various types of cancers. The oral cavity is inhabited by complex multispecies communities that usually exist in a balanced immunoinflammatory state with the host [2]. Certain species, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, can disrupt this equilibrium, resulting in a dysbiotic host– microbiota interaction. Subsequently, other community constituents, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, can become opportunistically pathogenic, and the combined effect of a dysbiotic microbial community along with a dysregulated immune response ultimately causes periodontal disease [2]. These well-studied periodontal organisms have now emerged as the focal point for the developing association between oral bacteria and cancer. Perhaps the most likely carcinogenic link with oral bacteria is with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), one of the most common cancers worldwide. OSCC surfaces have been reported to harbor significantly higher levels of Porphyromonas and Fusobacterium compared with contiguous healthy mucosa [3]. Moreover, immunohistochemistry with P. gingivalis antibodies revealed higher levels of detection and intensity of staining in gingival carcinomas compared with healthy gingival tissue, although only a small number of cases were examined [4]. A striking association has also been demonstrated between P. gingivalis infection and pancreatic cancer. In a prospective cohort study of over 400 cases and controls, a .2-fold increase in risk of pancreatic cancer was observed among those with high levels of antibodies to P. gingivalis, after adjusting for known risk factors [5]. Similarly, in the extensive National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III, orodigestive cancer mortality was found to be related to the levels of P. gingivalis antibodies, independent of periodontal disease [6]. Several recent studies have shown a strong association between F. nucleatum and colorectal cancer (CRC) [7–10]. F. nucleatum was found to be one of the more abundant species within and around CRC neoplasms, and levels of F. nucleatum correlated with the presence of lymph node metastases.
Novel JAK2 rearrangement resulting from a t(9;22)(p24;q11.2) in B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Rearrangements of JAK2 are rare and have been described in various hematological neoplasms. We report a novel JAK2 rearrangement resulting from a t(9;22)(p24;q11.2) in a 14-year-old male with a diagnosis of B lymphoblastic leukemia. He was treated with Children's Oncology Group's protocol (AALL0232) but failed to achieve remission by day 29. He underwent a second induction and entered remission. His clinical course suggested that this JAK2 rearrangement might portend an unfavorable prognosis. This case brings the total number of JAK2 rearranged lymphoblastic leukemia cases in the literature to seven. The molecular genetic and clinicopathologic features of these cases were reviewed.
Discovery With Models A Case Study on Carelessness in Computer-Based Science Inquiry

In recent years, an increasing number of analyses in learning analytics and educational data mining (EDM) have adopted a “discovery with models” approach, where an existing model is used as a key component in a new EDM or analytics analysis. This article presents a theoretical discussion on the emergence of discovery with models, its potential to enhance research on learning and learners, and key lessons learned in how discovery with models can be conducted validly and effectively. We illustrate these issues through discussion of a case study where discovery with models was used to investigate a form of disengaged behavior (i.e., carelessness) in the context of middle school computer-based science inquiry. This behavior was acknowledged as a problem in education as early as the 1920s. With the increasing use of high-stakes testing, the cost of student carelessness can be higher. For instance, within computer-based learning environments, careless errors can result in reduced educational effectiveness, with...
Generalized isolation level definitions

Commercial databases support different isolation levels to allow programmers to trade off consistency for a potential gain in performance. The isolation levels are defined in the current ANSI standard, but the definitions are ambiguous and revised definitions proposed to correct the problem are too constrained since they allow only pessimistic (locking) implementations. This paper presents new specifications for the ANSI levels. Our specifications are portable: they apply not only to locking implementations, but also to optimistic and multi-version concurrency control schemes. Furthermore, unlike earlier definitions, our new specifications handle predicates in a correct and flexible manner at all levels.
Advancing stem cell research with microtechnologies: opportunities and challenges

Stem cells provide unique opportunities for understanding basic biology, for developing tissue models for drug testing, and for clinical applications in regenerative medicine. Despite the promise, the field faces significant challenges in identifying stem cell populations, controlling their fate, and characterizing their phenotype. These challenges arise because stem cells are ultimately functionally defined, and thus can often be identified only retrospectively. New technologies are needed that can provide surrogate markers of stem cell identity, can maintain stem cell state in vitro, and can better direct differentiation. In this review, we discuss the opportunities that microtechnologies, in particular, can provide to the unique qualities of stem cell biology. Microtechnology, by allowing organization and manipulation of cells and molecules at biologically relevant length scales, enables control of the cellular environment and assessment of cell functions and phenotypes with cellular resolution. This provides opportunities to, for instance, create more realistic stem cell niches, perform multi-parameter profiling of single cells, and direct the extracellular signals that control cell fate. All these features take place in an environment whose small size naturally conserves reagent and allows for multiplexing of experiments. By appropriately applying micro-scale engineering principles to stem cell research, we believe that significant breakthroughs can be made in stem cell research.
Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)

Summary Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is common, ranging from mild dysplasia to frank dislocation. The diagnosis can be difficult, even in experienced hands, particularly when there are bilateral dislocations. All infants should be screened clinically, but the value of other screening methods, such as ultrasound is still debated. Initial treatment in the infant is with a Pavlik harness. If this is ineffective or if the child presents later, more aggressive treatment, such as a closed reduction, or even surgical reduction may be indicated. All hips must be carefully followed until maturity. If diagnosed and treated promptly excellent results can be obtained, but long-term sequelae occur even in patients given optimal treatment.
Membrane Tethered Bursicon Constructs as Heterodimeric Modulators of the Drosophila G Protein–Coupled Receptor Rickets

The study of complex heterodimeric peptide ligands has been hampered by a paucity of pharmacological tools. To facilitate such investigations, we have explored the utility of membrane tethered ligands (MTLs). Feasibility of this recombinant approach was explored with a focus on Drosophila bursicon, a heterodimeric cystine-knot protein that activates the G protein–coupled receptor rickets (rk). Rk/bursicon signaling is an evolutionarily conserved pathway in insects required for wing expansion, cuticle hardening, and melanization during development. We initially engineered two distinct MTL constructs, each composed of a type II transmembrane domain, a peptide linker, and a C terminal extracellular ligand that corresponded to either the α or β bursicon subunit. Coexpression of the two complementary bursicon MTLs triggered rk-mediated signaling in vitro. We were then able to generate functionally active bursicon MTLs in which the two subunits were fused into a single heterodimeric peptide, oriented as either α-β or β-α. Carboxy-terminal deletion of 32 amino acids in the β-α MTL construct resulted in loss of agonist activity. Coexpression of this construct with rk inhibited receptor-mediated signaling by soluble bursicon. We have thus generated membrane-anchored bursicon constructs that can activate or inhibit rk signaling. These probes can be used in future studies to explore the tissue and/or developmental stage-dependent effects of bursicon in the genetically tractable Drosophila model organism. In addition, our success in generating functionally diverse bursicon MTLs offers promise that such technology can be broadly applied to other complex ligands, including the family of mammalian cystine-knot proteins.
A Cognitive Strategy Instruction to Improve Math Calculation for Children With ADHD and LD: A Randomized Controlled Study

The authors examined the effectiveness of cognitive strategy instruction based on PASS (Planning, Attention, Simultaneous, Successive) given by special education teachers to students with ADHD randomly assigned by classroom. Students in the experimental group were exposed to a brief cognitive strategy instruction for 10 days, which was designed to encourage development and application of effective planning for mathematical computation, whereas the comparison group received-standard math instruction. Standardized tests of cognitive processes and math achievement were given at pretest. All students completed math worksheets throughout the experimental phase. Standardized achievement tests (Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement, Third Edition, Math Fluency and Wechsler Individualized Achievement Test, Second Edition, Numerical Operations) were administered pre- and postintervention, and Math Fluency was also administered at 1 year follow-up. Large pre-post effect sizes were found for students in the experimental group but not the comparison group on math worksheets (0.85 and 0.26), Math Fluency (1.17 and 0.09), and Numerical Operations (0.40 and -0.14, respectively). At 1 year follow-up, the experimental group continued to outperform the comparison group. These findings suggest that students with ADHD evidenced greater improvement in math worksheets, far transfer to standardized tests of math (which measured the skill of generalizing learned strategies to other similar tasks), and continued advantage 1 year later when provided the PASS-based cognitive strategy instruction.
Normative Scores for the NIH Toolbox Dynamic Visual Acuity Test from 3 to 85 Years

As part of the National Institutes of HealthToolbox initiative, a computerized test of dynamic visual acuity (cDVA) was developed and validated as an easy-to-administer, cost- and timeefficient test of vestibular and visual function. To establish normative reference values, 3,992 individuals, aged 3‐85 years, without vestibular pathology underwent cDVA testing at multiple clinical research testing facilities across the United States. Test scores were stratified by sociodemographic characteristics. cDVA was worse in males (p < 0.001) and those subjects 50 years or older, while there was no difference in dynamic visual acuity across age groups binned from 3 to 49 years. Furthermore, we used these normative cDVA data as a criterion reference to compare both the long (validated) and short versions of the test. Both versions can distinguish between those with and without vestibular pathology (pD 0.0002 long; pD 0.0025 short). The intraclass correlation coefficient between longand short-cDVA tests was 0.86.
Data-Mining Technologies for Diabetes: A Systematic Review

Background: The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review of applications of data-mining techniques in the field of diabetes research. Method: We searched the MEDLINE database through PubMed. We initially identified 31 articles by the search, and selected 17 articles representing various data-mining methods used for diabetes research. Our main interest was to identify research goals, diabetes types, data sets, data-mining methods, data-mining software and technologies, and outcomes. Results: The applications of data-mining techniques in the selected articles were useful for extracting valuable knowledge and generating new hypothesis for further scientific research/experimentation and improving health care for diabetes patients. The results could be used for both scientific research and real-life practice to improve the quality of health care diabetes patients. Conclusions:
Femoral shaft fracture with ipsilateral hip dislocation in a child

A child victim of low speed violence was found to have a fractured femur and dislocation of the ipsilateral hip. This combination of injuries in a child is very rare. The dislocation was not initially recognized because of absence of suggestive history, symptoms, and signs. After recognition, open reduction of the hip dislocation was achieved through a posterior approach. One month later an osteotomy at the femur fracture allowed the leg to fall to neutral while maintaining the femoral head in the most desirable position.
Gastroduodenal feeding after gastric bypass: a response to the comment by Jorgensen et al.

we appreciate the constructive comments by Jorgensen et al. in their Letter to the Editor ([8][1]) regarding our recent paper comparing post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) metabolic responses to a mixed meal delivered to the jejunum (orally) or the gastroduodenum via a gastrostomy tube ([6][2]).
A contractivity approach for probabilistic bisimulations of diffusion processes

This work is concerned with the problem of characterizing and computing probabilistic bisimulations of diffusion processes. A probabilistic bisimulation relation between two such processes is defined through a bisimulation function, which induces an approximation metric on the expectation of the (squared norm of the) distance between the two processes. We introduce sufficient conditions for the existence of a bisimulation function, based on the use of contractivity analysis for probabilistic systems. Furthermore, we show that the notion of stochastic contractivity is related to a probabilistic version of the concept of incremental stability. This relationship leads to a procedure that constructs a discrete approximation of a diffusion process. The procedure is based on the discretization of space and time. Given a diffusion process, we raise sufficient conditions for the existence of such an approximation, and show that it is probabilistically bisimilar to the original process, up to a certain approximation precision.
Health educators' perceptions of a sexual health intervention for homeless adolescents.

Objective The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of health educators in providing a brief, street-based intervention to homeless adolescents.