cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Premenstrual Syndrome and the Medicalization of Menopause: A Sociological Perspective

More than 50 years ago. Robert T. Frank (1931: 1053–1054). an eminent medical scientist, gave the name of Premenstrual Tension to the “minor disturbances,” including “increased fatigability, irritability, lack of concentration and attacks of pain,” as well as to the “indescribable tension” experienced by some women premenstrually. These physical disturbances, he believed, led to disruptions in the social fabric; he cited instances of patients’ complaints of interference in their family lives and in their employment. Implicit in this formulation of the problem was a belief that relief of women’s physical distress would lead to social order, and that the proper role of medicine was to intervene. These assumptions about the connection between physical and social disorder and about the role of medicine in treating these disorders are mirrored by many others in medical publications since the 1950’s (Morton, 1953a; Reid & Yen, 1981).
A Pediatrician’s Guide to Communication Disorders Secondary to Cleft Lip/Palate

This article describes how different types of clefts affect the child's function and, in particular, the child's communication abilities. This article also describes the evaluation process and various options for the treatment of affected speech. Because these children have many complicated needs over their entire growth period, it is important that they are referred by the pediatrician to a cleft palate/craniofacial team for the best care and best ultimate outcomes.
The Challenge of Teaching Statistics to Non-Specialists

Traditional methods of teaching introductory statistics are often viewed as being ineffective because they fail to establish a clear link between statistics and its uses in the real world. To be mo...
Evaluating the link between photosynthetic capacity and leaf vascular organization with principal component analysis

Significant linear relationships between photosynthetic capacity and principal components loaded by phloem cell numbers and tracheary elements per minor vein as well as the latter two normalized for vein density (proxy for apoplastic phloem loading capacity involving membrane transporters) were revealed for all apoplastic loaders (summer annuals and winter annual Arabidopsis thaliana). In addition, significant linear relationships between photosynthetic capacity and a principal component loaded by tracheary element cross-sectional areas and volumes per unit of leaf area (water flux capacity proxy) was present for symplastic and apoplastic loaders. Lastly, a significant linear relationship between photosynthetic capacity and a principal component loaded by phloem cell cross-sectional areas and volumes per unit of leaf area (proxy for symplastic loading capacity involving cytosolic enzymes for companion cells) was revealed for summer annual symplastic loaders as well as for A. thaliana (in the case of sieve elements, a proxy for sugar export capacity from the leaves).
Molecular Aspects of Juvenile Hormone Reception and Action

Molting and metamorphosis in insects are governed by two hormones, ecdysone which initiates and coordinates the molting process, and juvenile hormone (JH) which allows molting but prevents metamorphosis. In this morphogenetic action JH does not act by itself but rather directs the action of ecdysone. At the molecular level ecdysone can activate or inactivate genes either directly or via the induction of trans-acting regulatory factors (Lepesant and Richards, 1989). During a molt it causes the suppression of ongoing intermolt gene expression and “selects”, in a sequential manner, genes necessary for formation of the next stage; the activation of these genes occurs as the ecdysteroid titer falls (Riddiford et al., 1986, 1990). The presence of JH allows the inactivation of the intermolt genes but ensures that they may be re-expressed when the ecdysteroid titer falls. Its presence also prevents the activation of new genes and therefore metamorphosis.
The Impact of Pesticides on the Environment

The use of chemicals to control pests which harm crops, annoy humans, and transmit diseases of both animals and humans is not a new practice. Homer described how Odysseus fumigated the hall, house, and the court with burning sulfur to control pests. As long ago as A.D. 70, Pliny the Elder recommended the use of arsenic to kill insects, and the Chinese used arsenic sulfide for the same purpose as early as the 16th century. By the early 20th century, inorganic chemicals such as lead arsenate and copper acetoarsenite were in common use to control insect pests.
Gender Disparities Within US Army Orthopedic Surgery: A Preliminary Report

Introduction Women account for approximately 15% of the active duty US Army, and studies show that women may be at an increased risk of musculoskeletal injury during sport and military training. Nationally, the field of orthopedic surgery comprises 14% women, lagging behind other surgical fields. Demographics for US Military orthopedic surgeons are not readily available. Similarly, demographic data of graduating medical students entering Military Medicine are not reported. We hypothesize that a gender disparity within military orthopedics will be apparent. We will compare the demographic profile of providers to our patients and hypothesize that the two groups are dissimilar. Secondarily, we examine the demographics of military medical students potentially entering orthopedics from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) or the Health Professions Scholarship Program. Methods A census was formed of all US Army active duty orthopedic surgeons to include staff surgeons and residents, as well as US Army medical student graduates and orthopedic patients. Results There are 252 Army orthopedic surgeons and trainees; 26 (10.3%) are women and 226 (89.7%) are men. There were no significant demographic differences between residents and staff. Between 2014 and 2017, the 672 members of the USUHS graduating classes included 246 Army graduates. Of those, 62 (25%) were female. Army Health Professions Scholarship Program graduated 1,072 medical students, with women comprising 300 (28%) of the group. No statistical trends were seen over the 4 yr at USUHS or in Health Professions Scholarship Program. In total, 2,993 orthopedic clinic visits during the study period were by Army service members, 23.6% were women. Conclusion There exists a gender disparity among US Army orthopedic surgeons, similar to that seen in civilian orthopedics. Gender equity is also lacking among medical students who feed into Army graduate medical education programs. The gender profile of our patient population is not reflected by that of providers. Because patients prefer providers of the same gender, this is a limitation to patient satisfaction and access to care for musculoskeletal injuries. Further study is underway to identify perceptions and potential causes of these disparities, including the critical perspective of our patients. In addition to the inherent benefits offered by diversity (e.g., expanding the talent pool and more perspectives for decision-making), ultimately it affords a greater ability to maintain a fit and ready force.
Chapter 39 – Bone Remodeling Findings in Osteoporosis

Publisher Summary This chapter considers the role of bone remodeling—chiefly as disclosed by histomorphometry of transilial bone biopsies from human subjects—in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Low bone mass in osteoporosis represents primarily a deficit of cortical bone. Bone is lost from the corticoendosteal surface, and the inner cortex eventually becomes completely trabeculated. Important differences in the remodeling dynamics of trabecular bone between healthy subjects and patients with established osteoporosis are usually absent at the time of biopsy. However, a number of structural findings are of interest. Trabecular bone mass is probably reduced in most women with osteoporosis, and trabecular thinning is relatively minor. However, osteoporotic patients with vertebral fractures are lower in trabecular connectivity than are others with the same trabecular bone mass. Although it is unclear whether inefficient detection of microdamage contributes to fragility fractures, locally inefficient repair of microdamage may well be an important factor. The repair of micro-damage is an important issue in both trabecular and cortical bone. Calcium kinetics studies have shown clearly that, in association with menopause (that is, estrogen deprivation), the relationship between bone resorption and bone accretion changes in favor of resorption. Data that describe within-individual magnitude of change (both day-to-day and in response to treatment) permit evaluation of the utility of bone markers to classify and follow individuals.
IRAK4 activity controls immune responses to intracellular bacteria Listeria monocytogenes and Mycobacterium smegmatis

IL-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) 4 is a central enzyme of the TLR pathways. This study tested the hypothesis that IRAK4 kinase activity is prerequisite for regulating innate immunity during infections with intracellular bacteria. To this end, we analyzed responses of macrophages obtained from mice expressing wild-type (WT) IRAK4 or its kinase-inactive K213M mutant (IRAK4KI ) upon infection with intracellular bacteria Listeria monocytogenes or Mycobacterium smegmatis. In contrast to robust induction of cytokines by macrophages expressing kinase-sufficient IRAK4, IRAK4KI macrophages expressed decreased TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 upon infection with L. monocytogenes or M. smegmatis. Bacterial infection of IRAK4KI macrophages led to attenuated activation of IRAK1, MAPKs and NF-κB, impaired induction of inducible NO synthase mRNA and secretion of NO, but resulted in elevated microbial burdens. Compared with WT animals, systemic infection of IRAK4KI mice with M. smegmatis or L. monocytogenes resulted in decreased levels of serum IL-6 and CXCL-1 but increased bacterial burdens in the spleen and liver. Thus, a loss of IRAK4 kinase activity underlies deficient cytokine and microbicidal responses during infection with intracellular bacteria L. monocytogenes or M. smegmatis via impaired activation of IRAK1, MAPKs, and NF-κB but increases bacterial burdens, correlating with decreased induction of NO.
The Toehold Acquisition Doctrine: Economic Theory and Judicial Application

Theoretical and legal issues posed by toehold acquisitions under Section 7 of the Clayton Act remain to be clarified by economists and by the courts.* In some circumstances a toehold acquisition is held to be permissible under the law when another acquisition or merger would not be permissible. The evolving toehold merger doctrine is an offshoot of potential competition doctrine, which is itself evolving and receiving judicial interpretation, not the least with respect to its toehold offshoot. As we shall see, two lower court decisions in 1976 and 1977, U.S. v. Black & Decker and McCulloch 1 and BOC International Ltd. v. FTC,2 suggest that the attitude of the courts will not necessarily be consistent with the best uses to which the economist would put the toehold doctrine. Although the potential competition doctrine itself may be accused of skirting paradox and causing confusion, it will be contended in this paper that the toehold doctrine when rightly understood resolves seeming paradoxes and cuts through confusion.
Radiologic Approach to Solid and Cystic Renal Masses

Renal mass-like lesions are ubiquitous. Fortunately, most are benign. The most common renal mass is a benign cyst. In fact, pathologic investigations have shown that approximately one-half of the population over the age of 50 has one or more renal cysts [1]. Computed tomography (CT) investigations show that one-quarter to one-third of patients over 50 years of age has at least one cyst [2]. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is most commonly identified because of the widespread use of cross-sectional imaging in the abdomen, either by CT or ultrasound (US), usually performed for a non-renal complaint [3]. With advances in CT and US technology, radiologists are detecting more masses and characterizing cysts as small as 5 mm [4]. Similarly, small solid masses may be also characterized with confidence.
Impact of Missing Data and Imputation Methods on Multiple Test Procedures

This chapter illustrates how two common missing data mechanisms (missing completely at random, and missing at random) influence the Type I familywise error rate of the therapeutic window of a drug using multiple test procedures. A therapeutic window is determined by the minimum dose needed to effectively treat a condition or ailment, and the maximum dose that can be safely administered. The effect of multiple imputation procedures for these missing data mechanisms is also assessed. Simulation results suggest that multiple imputations reduce the familywise error rate of the therapeutic window in the presence of missing data.
Insect Growth Regulators: Resistance and The Future

In 1967 Carroll Williams summarized several years of campaigning for a revolution in pesticide chemistry with the publication of an article entitled “Third Generation Pesticides.” His lectures on the golden oil of Ceovopia helped to inspire the identification of the first juvenile hormone (JH) structure (Roller et al., 1976) as well as the synthesis of potent and relatively inexpensive JH mimics (Law et al., 1966; Bowers, 1968, 1969). Among the many potential advantages of the third generation pesticides was one predicted in the statement, “Now insect hormones promise to provide insecticides that are not only more specific but also proof against the evolution of resistance” (Williams, 1967). This statement was seriously questioned (Ellis, 1968; Schneiderman, 1971, 1972), and shortly thereafter it was shown to be invalid by the publication of two papers demonstrating that strains resistant (R) to pesticides could be cross-resistant to JHs (Dyte, 1972) and their mimics (Cerf and Georghiou, 1972).
Crossing Thresholds: Artistic Practice in Times of Research

This article will examine the role of the artist as a researcher in the context of a highly specialized and complex information and network society. Following structural changes in the relationship between art, research, and society at large, including higher education, and their impact on contemporary practitioners, it will establish art practice as a privileged spot to produce both unique knowledge and cultural agency. The metaphor of the threshold, interstice, or liminal space will serve as a descriptor for how the practice of an artist can be understood and used as a device for knowledge production. The article will be tied closely to my own artistic practice.
CRRT in a Child in Cardiac ICU

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in children with congenital heart disease is a serious condition with an important impact on morbidity and mortality. Several risk factors should be considered in this peculiar group of critically ill children. Among the most important, perioperative renal injury due to cardiopulmonary bypass and the influence of surgery and pharmacologic management in restoring normal hemodynamics have to be kept in mind. Effective treatments are not currently available for established AKI in cardiac surgery patients and, even if specific indications have to be considered for each different case, generally, early renal replacement therapy initiation is recommended.
Medical Aid In Dying And Telemedicine: Improving Access And Protecting Patients

Medical aid in dying is a form of medical treatment recognized in several states and the District of Columbia and available to adult residents of those states who are competent and suffer from a terminal disease. Timely access to it is critical for qualifying patients. The article explores the possibility of facilitating access to medical aid in dying via telehealth—a method of providing health care remotely by means of electronic communication. Specifically, I analyze the feasibility of medical aid in dying by telehealth from clinical and legal perspectives. I also examine a relevant normative issue of the nature of in-person medical examination and its relation to a valid doctor-patient relationship. I conclude that while clinically medical aid in dying can be provided to some qualifying patients, existing legal restrictions make it problematic. I argue that to improve access to medical aid in dying, we need to rethink what “in-person medical examination” means in the digital age.
Social Functions of Emotion and Talking About Emotion at Work, edited by Dirk Lindebaum, Deanna Geddes, and Peter J. Jordan. Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Publishing, 2018, 266 pages, hard cover.

The major premise of Social Functions of Emotion and Talking About Emotion at Work is that the talk about emotions and the functions of emotions are often in contradiction to one another, yet talk ...
The relationship of physical activity to mental health: A 2015 behavioral risk factor surveillance system data analysis

Abstract Introduction Available literature has repeatedly ascertained the inverse relationship of physical activity to mental health. Engaging in regular physical activity decreases symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress in a dose-responsive manner. Methods Cross-sectional, national data from the 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were analyzed to establish the relationship between physical activity and days of poor mental health. The association between physical activity and days of poor mental health was assessed by multiple linear regression using SAS. Results Findings support the assumption of an inverse dose-response relationship between physical activity levels and self-reported days of poor mental health. Individuals who engage in higher levels of physical activity reported significantly fewer days of poor mental health when compared to those who reported low or no physical activity (e.g. −2.23, 95%CI (−2.31, −2.15)) for highly active vs. inactive individuals (unadjusted model)). Furthermore, individuals who only met the guidelines for aerobic exercise reported significantly fewer days of poor mental health than those who only met the muscle strengthening guidelines (−0.85 (95% CI: −0.98, −0.73)). Limitations Due to the cross-sectional study design, the direction of the relationship is unknown and reverse causation is possible. Conclusion Higher physical activity levels were associated with fewer self-reported days of poor mental health, which reiterates the important association between physical activity and mental health with national data. The findings of this study could prove to be valuable for developing interventions aimed at improving mental health. Nonetheless, several research gaps persist that warrant further empirical inquiry.
Long-Term Consequences of Neonatal Pain

Until 1985, it was widely believed that neonates did not experience pain. However, after years of neglect, there is starting to be research done on this topic and a bigger focus on trying to relieve pain in these infants. Some of this research specifically focuses on how the nervous system changes in response to noxious stimuli and untreated pain.
Reflections on Marriage and Family Beyond the Culture Wars

Although much attention has focused on same-sex marriage as an ominous destroyer of the traditional marriage and family structure, a more historical perspective suggests that the radical changes taking place in marriage and family structure in our culture are better understood as adaptations to social forces generated by a shifting economic base. This assertion is presented in three interlocking theses, and salient implications are discussed for the future of marriage and the family in the new economy.
Decay of Eu 155 , Sm 153 , Sn 125 , and Br 82

The energies of the beta and gamma rays associated with the decay of ${\mathrm{Eu}}^{155}$, ${\mathrm{Sm}}^{153}$, ${\mathrm{Sn}}^{125}$, and ${\mathrm{Br}}^{82}$ have been determined by scintillation spectrometry, and coincidence relationships have been investigated when possible. In most instances, values of $log\mathrm{ft}$ for the beta spectra have been determined from a consideration of the decay scheme and the relative intensities of gamma rays. The results obtained have been interpreted as indicating the following excited energy states of the residual nuclei. ${\mathrm{Gd}}^{155}$: 18 and 102 kev; ${\mathrm{Eu}}^{153}$: 100, 170, and 700 kev; ${\mathrm{Sb}}^{125}$: 1070, 1410, 1880, 1970, and 2110 kev; ${\mathrm{Kr}}^{82}$: 770, 1450, 1800, 2060, and 2620 kev.The results of the measurements have been considered in relation to the single-particle model of the nucleus to ascertain likely spin values.
Association of Patient-Centered Medical Home designation and quality indicators within HRSA-funded community health center delivery sites.

Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) adoption is an important strategy to help improve primary care quality within Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA) community health centers (CHC), but evidence of its effect thus far remains mixed. A limitation of previous evaluations has been the inability to account for the proportion of CHC delivery sites that are designated medical homes. Retrospective cross-sectional study using HRSA Uniform Data System (UDS) and certification files from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and the Joint Commission (JC). Datasets were linked through geocoding and an approximate string-matching algorithm. Predicted probability scores were regressed onto 11 clinical performance measures using 10% increments in site-level designation using beta logistic regression. The geocoding and approximate string-matching algorithm identified 2615 of the 6851 (41.8%) delivery sites included in the analyses as having been designated through the NCQA and/or JC. In total, 74.7% (n = 777) of the 1039 CHCs that met the inclusion criteria for the analysis managed at least one NCQA- and/or JC-designated site. A proportional increase in site-level designation showed a positive association with adherence scores for the majority of all indicators, but primarily among CHCs that designated at least 50% of its delivery sites. Once this threshold was achieved, there was a stepwise percentage point increase in adherence scores, ranging from 1.9 to 11.8% improvement, depending on the measure. Geocoding and approximate string-matching techniques offer a more reliable and nuanced approach for monitoring the association between site-level PCMH designation and clinical performance within HRSA’s CHC delivery sites. Our findings suggest that transformation does in fact matter, but that it may not appear until half of the delivery sites become designated. There also appears to be a continued stepwise increase in adherence scores once this threshold is achieved.
The mitigating effect of low firearm background check requirements on firearm homicides in border states.

BackgroundFirearm-related violence is a significant public health issue in the US. Research has found an increase in guns used in crimes sourced from low gun law states into high gun law states. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of distance from states without universal background checks (UBC), background checks at shows (BCS), or permit to purchase (PTP) laws on firearm homicide rates in states with them.MethodsStates were identified based on their enactment of laws that are designed to prevent the private sale of firearms to criminals. Demographic data for each county were obtained forthe years 2014 through 2017.The border distance from a county in a state with the evaluated gun laws to the nearest border state without the gun laws was obtained using Google Maps. Multiple regression analyses were performed to test the relationship between border distance and firearm homicide rates.ResultsThe regression model evaluating all formats found the border distance was negatively associated with firearm homicides(p=.009). The parameter estimate indicated as border distance increased, the firearm homicide rate decreased. When counties with UBC or PTP on all guns were evaluated separately from all formats model, the statistical significance was lost (p=.62). In counties where all handgun sales either require a background check or a PTP is required, the distance was also not statistically significant (p=.11).ConclusionThis study provides evidence that there may be a mitigating effect on the reduction of firearm homicides in states that require background checks or PTP on private sales when there is a state in close proximitythat did not have these laws. Limited counties at certain distances may have contributed to the insignificant findings in other models.
Changing Trends from Traditional to Technology Based Approach: Speech Language Pathologist’s Preferences for Computer Mediated Aphasia Therapy (CMAT) in Pakistan

Aphasia is an acquired neurological disorder of communication with a range of language impairments. Aphasia rehabilitation is becoming an important concern in clinical aphasiology. Traditional approaches for rehabilitation are being practiced. In addition to this, computer-based strategies are also employed in aphasiology. In this study, a qualitative phenomenological research approach is used to gain an understanding on how the SLPs of Pakistan perceive the changing trends of clinical practice in aphasia towards technology-based treatment method. This study presents lived experiences and preferences of the SLPs regarding changing trends from the traditional approach to the technology-based method. Ten SLPs participated and were recruited through purposive sampling. The participants were included if they were qualified SLPs and had at least 2 years of experience. The data was collected through audiotapes of detailed group discussions with the participants. The data was analyzed by using thematic analysis. The findings were grouped into five themes: traditional rehab activities, auditory and visual input, cost-effective approach, access and prognosis note. A range of sub-themes were also identified. The findings suggest the SLPs’ preferences are showing limited trends towards adapting the technology-based method.
Objective Identification of Cannabis Use Levels in Clinical Populations Is Critical for Detecting Pharmacological Outcomes.

Introduction: Cannabis is widely used for recreational and medical purposes, but its therapeutic efficacy remains unresolved for many applications as data from retrospective studies show dramatic d...
Performance Characteristics of HYDRA – A Multi-physics Simulation Code from LLNL

HYDRA simulates a variety of experiments carried out at the National Ignition Facility and other high energy density physics facilities. It has packages to simulate radiation transfer, atomic physics, hydrodynamics, laser propagation, and a number of other physics effects. HYDRA has over one million lines of code, includes MPI and thread-level (OpenMP and pthreads) parallelism, has run on a variety of platforms for two decades, and is undergoing active development.
TU-G-207-00: Emerging Applications of X-Ray Imaging

Last few years has witnessed the development of novel of X-ray imaging modalities, such as spectral CT, phase contrast CT, and X-ray acoustic/fluorescence/luminescence imaging. This symposium will present the recent advances of these emerging X-ray imaging modalities and update the attendees with knowledge in various related topics, including X-ray photon-counting detectors, X-ray physics underlying the emerging applications beyond the traditional X-ray imaging, image reconstruction for the novel modalities, characterization and evaluation of the systems, and their practical implications. In addition, the concept and practical aspects of X-ray activatable targeted nanoparticles for molecular X-ray imaging will be discussed in the context of X-ray fluorescence and luminescence CT. Learning Objectives: 1. Present background knowledge of various emerging X-ray imaging techniques, such as spectral CT, phase contrast CT and X-ray fluorescence/luminescence CT. 2. Discuss the practical need, technical aspects and current status of the emerging X-ray imaging modalities. 3. Describe utility and future impact of the new generation of X-ray imaging applications.
Numerical Studies of BCU Methods from Stability Boundary Perspectives

This chapter contains sections titled: Introduction Stability Boundary of Network-Reduction Models Network-Preserving Model One Dynamic Property of the Controlling UEP Concluding Remarks
Evaluation of percutaneously adjustable hydraulic urethral sphincters with and without induced mechanical failure.

Objective To describe (1) the radiographic appearance of intact hydraulic urethral sphincters (HUS) and (2) the success of leak detection using clinically feasible methods. Study Design Prospective, blinded in vitro study. Sample Population Thirty HUS devices (10 each of 8, 10, and 12 mm diameter sizes). Materials and Methods All devices were inflated with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution to complete occlusion, inspected, and weighed over a 24-hour period for manufacturing defects. HUS phantoms were created to mimic surrounding soft tissues. One randomly selected HUS of each size was evaluated radiographically at different inflation volumes and angles. All HUS systems were then evaluated in random order before and after puncture with volumetry, manometry, radiography, and contrast fluoroscopy. Volumetry was the total volume (mL) retrieved from each HUS system. Manometry was the pressure (cm H2O) within each HUS system. The HUS devices were filled to a known volume before each measurement. Results When all HUS sizes were considered, volumetry did not reveal significant differences before and after puncture, but manometry was significantly different (P < .001). Radiography was 63.8% sensitive and 88.3% specific for puncture diagnosis, with inter-observer agreement of 0.58. Contrast fluoroscopy was 78.4% sensitive and 100% specific, with inter-observer agreement of 0.97. Conclusions Of those methods tested, contrast fluoroscopy was the most sensitive, specific, and consistent method of leak detection. Manometry was also helpful, but may be difficult to use clinically. Volumetry and radiography were relatively poor indicators of leakage in this model.
Fate of R parity

The possible origin of the $R$-parity--violating interactions in the minimal supersymmetric standard model and its connection to the radiative symmetry-breaking mechanism is investigated in the context of the simplest model where the radiative symmetry-breaking mechanism can be implemented. We find that, in the majority of the parameter space, $R$ parity is spontaneously broken at the low scale. These results hint that $R$-parity--violating processes could be observed at the Large Hadron Collider, if supersymmetry is realized in nature.
A theoretical method to compute sequence dependent configurational properties in charged polymers and proteins

A general formalism to compute configurational properties of proteins and other heteropolymers with an arbitrary sequence of charges and non-uniform excluded volume interaction is presented. A variational approach is utilized to predict average distance between any two monomers in the chain. The presented analytical model, for the first time, explicitly incorporates the role of sequence charge distribution to determine relative sizes between two sequences that vary not only in total charge composition but also in charge decoration (even when charge composition is fixed). Furthermore, the formalism is general enough to allow variation in excluded volume interactions between two monomers. Model predictions are benchmarked against the all-atom Monte Carlo studies of Das and Pappu [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 110, 13392 (2013)] for 30 different synthetic sequences of polyampholytes. These sequences possess an equal number of glutamic acid (E) and lysine (K) residues but differ in the patterning within the sequence. Without any fit parameter, the model captures the strong sequence dependence of the simulated values of the radius of gyration with a correlation coefficient of R(2) = 0.9. The model is then applied to real proteins to compare the unfolded state dimensions of 540 orthologous pairs of thermophilic and mesophilic proteins. The excluded volume parameters are assumed similar under denatured conditions, and only electrostatic effects encoded in the sequence are accounted for. With these assumptions, thermophilic proteins are found-with high statistical significance-to have more compact disordered ensemble compared to their mesophilic counterparts. The method presented here, due to its analytical nature, is capable of making such high throughput analysis of multiple proteins and will have broad applications in proteomic studies as well as in other heteropolymeric systems.
Quantitative assessment of vaginal microflora during use of tampons of various compositions

Although the effect of vaginal tampons on the microbial flora during menstruation has recently been studied by several investigators, quantitative effects attributable to particular tampon fibers have received less attention. The purposes of the present study were (i) to determine and then to compare the effects of polyacrylate rayon tampons and viscose rayon tampons on the normal vaginal flora, (ii) to compare quantitative bacterial counts obtained from these tampons with those obtained from concomitant vaginal swabs, and (iii) to determine whether either of these tampon types alters the vaginal microflora when compared with the microflora in the same women using all-cotton tampons or external catamenial pads. Tampon and swab samples were obtained at predetermined times from 18 women for an average of seven menstrual cycles. Samples consisting of swabs from women wearing menstrual pads were compared with swab and tampon samples taken at predetermined times during the menstrual cycle from women using cotton, polyacrylate rayon, or viscose rayon tampons. Samples were analyzed for total aerobic, facultative, and anaerobic bacterial counts. Statistical evaluation of the results indicated that, on the whole, total bacterial counts decreased during menstruation and that the numbers of bacteria in tampons tended to be lower than those in swab samples taken at the same time. The tampon type had little effect on the vaginal microflora.
Transfusion of murine red blood cells expressing the human KEL glycoprotein induces clinically significant alloantibodies.

Background Red blood cell (RBC) alloantibodies to non-self antigens may develop following transfusion or pregnancy, leading to morbidity and mortality in the form of hemolytic transfusion reactions or hemolytic disease of the newborn. A better understanding of the mechanisms of RBC alloantibody induction, or strategies to mitigate the consequences of such antibodies, may ultimately improve transfusion safety. However, such studies are inherently difficult in humans.
Examining gender differences in risk factors for suicide attempts made 1 and 7 years later in a nationally representative sample.

Abstract Objectives This study examined the prospective risk factors for making a nonfatal suicide attempt and whether they varied by gender. Methods We used data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. A nationally representative sample of 10,828 youth was assessed over three different time points spanning 7 years. We conducted multivariable logistic regression to examine the main and interactive effects on the odds of making a suicide attempt 1 and 7 years later. Results Regardless of an individual's gender, multivariable analyses indicated unique risk factors including suicidal ideation, depressive symptoms, a friend's past history of attempted and completed suicide, and a family member's past history of attempted suicide that were significantly associated with increased odds of suicide attempts made 1 and 7 years later. Parental loss predicted likelihood of suicide attempt 1 year later but not 7 years later. Moderational analyses indicated that gender did not interact with most of the risk factors. However, post hoc probing of two significant interaction terms indicated that young age was a risk factor for making a nonfatal suicide attempt 1 year later for females but not for males, and that females with high somatic symptoms had a greater risk for making a nonfatal suicide attempt as compared with those with low somatic symptoms and with males with low or high somatic symptoms. Conclusion These results indicate similar risk factors for nonfatal suicide attempts among males and females. However, younger age and somatic symptoms were reported to be risk factors for females but not for males, suggesting the need for targeted interventions with young females with somatic complaints.
Electron exchange for hydrated ions in the α-NiSO4 · 6H20 lattice—Electron paramagnetic resonance study of transition-metal ions in ZnSeO4 · 6H2O

Abstract The magnetothermodynamic measurements of Giauque et al. showed that the Ni2+ in α-NiSO4 · 6H2O could be fit very well by an axial spin Hamiltonian. We have studied the EPR of Ni2+, Co2− and Cue+ in both this lattice and in the isostructural lattices of NiSeO4 · 6H2O and ZnSeO4 · 6H2O. In both of the nickel lattices exchange effects are very important, but the diamagnetic zinc lattice can be used as a reference, and this paper reports the EPR of these ions in ZnSeO4 · 6H2O. The axial spin Hamiltoniar is a result of the hydrogen bonding of the M(H2O)62+ complex. Two axial H2O grou ps have three hydrogen bonds vs only two for the other four waters. This results in a tetragonal crystal field with decreased negative charge along the fourfold axis, and we find that the spin-Hamiltonian axis is very nearly along the axis formed by the unique waters. For Ni(H2O)62+ we obtain g‖ = 2.219, g⊥ = 2.238 with D = +4.20 cm−. For Co(H2O))62+ and Cu(H2O)62+ we obtain g‖ = 5.975, g⊥ = 3.45, A‖ = 77.0 gauss, A⊥ = 20 gauss and g‖ = 2.42 95, g⊥ = 2.0965, A‖ = 115.6 gauss, A⊥ = 9.5 gauss, respectively. Some variationo. in the orientation of the principal axes were also determined for the three ion;. A short discussion is also giN en for the effects of electron exchange on these ions in α-NiSO4 · 6H2O.
14N nuclear quadrupole resonance in nicotinic acid derivatives

Nitrogen-14 nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spectra of nicotinic acid derivatives, known as antitumor agents, are reported and analyzed in the framework of the Townes and Dailey theory. A strong correlation exists between the charge difference σNC − π at the pyridinic nitrogen and the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase by nicotinic acid derivatives, in which the inhibition potency (pI50) increases as the charge difference σNC − π increases. There are significant differences between 14N NQR spectra for the pyridinic nitrogen sites of nicotinic acid and nicotinamide; these can be explained in terms of the differences in hydrogen bond lengths.
Development and Characterization of En-7: a Ferric Acetylacetonate Catalyzed Polybutadiene-Based Elastomer:

Improved cure efficiency of polybutadiene based-polyol cured elastomers was achieved by replacing the organomercury catalyst of the commercial formulation (EN-4) with small concentrations of ferric acetylacetonate [Fe(AcAc) 3]. Although the pot life of the Fe(AcAC)3 catalyzed formulation, designated EN-7, was 20% shorter than that of EN-4, the pot life could be doubled by addition of minute quantities of acetylacetone without adversely affecting the improved cure efficiency. Spectroscopic analyses were carried out which corroborate that the Fe(AcAc)3 catalysis of the isocyanate-alcohol reaction involves alcoholysis of the metal acetylacetonate. Characterization studies indicate that, if me chanical strength at elevated temperatures is not a requirement, EN-7 appears to be a viable replacement for Adiprene elastomers which are under suspension because of the alleged carcinogenic nature of the curing agent, MOCA.
Steel tariffs – critical analysis and commentary

The steel industry in the U.S. has been experiencing declining revenues and rising losses. Over half the steel mills have filed for bankruptcy. To remedy the situation, the industry asked the federal government for help with the retirees’ pensions and protection from steel imports. The government imposed tariffs of 8 to 30 per cent to last for three years. Reaction to the tariffs from U.S. trade partners has been negative. The government hopes the industry will take advantage of the break to modernize and become more efficient. The history of the industry, however, sheds doubt on the industry’s ability to overcome past inefficiencies.
Thin Film Elastic Modulus of Degradable Tyrosine-Derived Polycarbonate Biomaterials and Their Blends

The integrity, function, and performance of biomedical devices having thin polymeric coatings are critically dependent on the mechanical properties of the film, including the elastic modulus. In this report, the elastic moduli of several tyrosine-derived polycarbonate thin films, specifically desaminotyrosyl ethyl tyrosine polycarbonates p(DTE carbonate), an iodinated derivative p(I2-DTE carbonate), and several discrete blends are measured using a method based on surface wrinkling. The data shows that the elastic modulus does not vary significantly with the blend composition as the weight percentage of p(I2-DTE carbonate) increases for films of uniform thickness in the range of 67 to 200 nm. As a function of film thickness, the observed elastic moduli of p(DTE carbonate), p(I2-DTE carbonate) and their 50:50 by mass blend show little variation over the range 30 to 200 nm.
PHARMACOLOGY OF INTRAVENOUS VITAMIN E IN THE VERY LOW BIRTHWEIGHT (VLBW) NEWBORN

Vitamin E (VE) has been used via the oral or in route in VLBW infants; however, the intravenous route is often preferred. The pharmacokinetics of intravenous VE have not been reported. Prior to an infant study, we measured VE pharmacokinetics in 8 adult cats after an intravenous infusion. Results showed a mean T½ of 73.0 hours, volume of distribution based on area (VD) of 0.59 l/kg and total plasma clearance (PC) of 4.5 mg/k/hr. We then measured serum VE levels in six VLBW newborns after a one-hour infusion of 10 mg/kg (dl-α-tocopherol, Hoffman-LaRoche) via peripheral vein. Serum was obtained at 0, 0.5, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours and then intermittently up to 28 days post infusion. Serum VE levels were measured by HPLC. Kinetic analysis was done using a multicompartment fitting with an exact, least squares program on a digital computer. All infants were n.p.o. and intubated for respiratory distress. Their mean BW was 920 grams and G.A. was 27 weeks. Select serum VE levels in mg/l: The mean T½ was 282 ± 164 hrs., VD was 0.373 ± 0.098 l/kg, and PC was 1.27 ± .46 ml/k/hr. There was no change in liver function as assessed by clinical course, SGOT or bilirubin. Serum lipid concentrations were stable. Dosing recommendations can be based on these data.
Structural Basis of Voltage-Dependent Gating in Ci-VSP

The transduction of electric fields into protein motion plays an essential role in the generation and propagation of cellular signals. Voltage-sensing domains (VSD) carry out these functions through reorientations of discrete gating charges in the S4 helix. The voltage sensitive phosphatase from C. intestinalis (Ci-VSP) is controlled by a standard VSD with high sequence similarity to the S1-S4 segments found in Na+ and K+ channels. To address some of the fundamental questions regarding how membrane proteins sense transmembrane voltages, we have pursued structural and biophysical information on Ci-VSP's isolated VSD, under conditions that stabilize the Up and the Down conformations. These will be discussed in the context of explicit mechanisms for voltage sensing.
The option value of tax delinquency: Theory

Abstract How taxes are enforced matters. Current enforcement of real property taxes does not consider the option value of delinquency: the ultimate penalty is confiscation of property sometime in the future, but the value of the property to be confiscated is not known with certainty. If redemption fees are sufficiently small, it can be optimal to wait and see what the size of the penalty will be before paying taxes. We show how this can lead to excessive abandonment, and examine proposals for reform.
Colloquium: Trapping and manipulating photon states in atomic ensembles

Modern optical techniques allow one to accurately control light using atoms and to manipulate atoms using light. In this Colloquium the author reviews several ideas indicating how such techniques can be used for accurate manipulation of quantum states of atomic ensembles and photons. First a technique is discussed that allows one to transfer quantum states between light fields and metastable states of matter. The technique is based on trapping quantum states of photons in coherently driven atomic media, in which the group velocity is adiabatically reduced to zero. Next, possible mechanisms are outlined for manipulating quantum states of atomic ensembles. Specifically, a ``dipole blockade'' technique is considered in which optical excitation of mesoscopic samples into Rydberg states can be used to control the state of ensembles at the level of individual quanta. It is also noted that even simple processes involving atom-photon correlations can be used to effectively manipulate the ensemble states. Potentially these techniques can be used for implementation of important concepts from quantum information science.
Lactase gene transcription is activated in response to hypoxia in intestinal epithelial cells.

Lactase-phlorizin hydrolase, a brush-border membrane disaccharidase, is a marker of intestinal epithelial cell differentiation and digestive function. The intestine is susceptible to conditions of hypoxia resulting from vascular perfusion deficits. We hypothesized that lactase gene induction may provide a mechanism to efficiently increase nutrient energy substrates during gut hypoxia. These studies sought to characterize expression of the lactase gene in response to hypoxia and to characterize a role for hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1) in mediating the hypoxic response. Microarray analysis and confirmatory RT-PCR identified a 4-fold induction of lactase mRNA abundance in intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells exposed to hypoxia. Lactase promoter activity was similarly induced by hypoxia in cells stably transfected with a 2.0-kb 5' flanking region of the rat lactase gene linked to a reporter gene. Transient cotransfection with HIF-1alpha and beta stimulated lactase promoter activity 2.4- and 3.5-fold under conditions of normoxia and hypoxia, respectively. We conclude that HIF-1 can activate the lactase promoter in intestinal epithelial cells exposed to hypoxia. Induction of lactase transcription may represent an adaptive response to gut hypoxia.