cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trapped electrons in tert-butanol-water glasses

Abstract We have determined that the range of tert-butanol-water solutions which form good glasses lies between 6 and 16 mol% tert-butanol. This covers the range over which all the water is present in the form of clathrate shells. The pulse radiolysis of glasses at both extremes of the glass-forming range at 6 K and 72 K reveals the production of both infrared-absorbing, e-ir, and visible-absorbing, e-vis, trapped electrons. However, in all cases, e-ir greatly dominates the spectrum. If the clathrate picture of these solutions is correct, it implies that electrons trapped in the water clathrate shells exist as e-ir. The present study provides the clearest picture thus far of the environment of e-ir in an aqueous glass.
Multilayered transition metal complexes of cyclophanes

Abstract The reaction of arene-ruthenium complexes ([RuCl 2 (ν 6 -arene)] 2 ) with [2.2]paracyclophane in the presence of AgBF 4 provides double- and triple-layered arene-ruthenium complexes of [2.2]paracyclophane in excellent yield.
Bedside cerebrospinal fluid glucose analysis

We studied the reliability and accuracy of a two-minute reagent strip (Chemstrip bG ® ) and hand-held autoanalyzer (Accu-Chek II ® ) for determining cerebrospinal fluid glucose. We found that both bedside methods were highly reliable ( r = 0.93, Chemstrip bG ® ; r = 0.95, Accu-Chek II ® ) and were very accurate (89.7% and 96.6% accurate at ± 15 and 20 mg/dL, respectively, for the Chemstrip bG ® ; 91.7% and 95.8% accurate at ± 15 and 20 mg/dL, respectively, for the Accu-Chek II ® ) over a wide range of glucose values in 237 determinations. There was no significant difference between the two bedside methods. We conclude that these two methods of bedside glucose estimation are both highly reliable and accurate and could be used to quickly determine patients' cerebrospinal fluid glucose values.
How transfer payments are treated in cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analyses

In this article, the treatment of transfer payments, such as welfare and disability payments, is considered. A review of cost studies reveals little uniformity of approach to treatment of transfer payments. The authors propose a framework for treatment of transfer payments, which depends on the selection of study perspective. From the perspective of society (economic efficiency), only the administrative costs of transfer payments are correctly included in cost-benefit studies. Strategies for estimating the administrative costs of transfers are also discussed.
Adaptive changes in renal mitochondrial redox status in diabetic nephropathy.

Nephropathy is a serious and common complication of diabetes. In the streptozotocin (STZ)-treated rat model of diabetes, nephropathy does not typically develop until 30 to 45 days post-injection, although hyperglycemia occurs within 24 h. We tested the hypothesis that chronic hyperglycemia results in a modest degree of oxidative stress that is accompanied by compensatory changes in certain antioxidants and mitochondrial redox status. We propose that as kidneys progress to a state of diabetic nephropathy, further adaptations occur in mitochondrial redox status. Basic parameters of renal function in vivo and several parameters of mitochondrial function and glutathione (GSH) and redox status in isolated renal cortical mitochondria from STZ-treated and age-matched control rats were examined at 30 days and 90 days post-injection. While there was no effect of diabetes on blood urea nitrogen, measurement of other, more sensitive parameters, such as urinary albumin and protein, and histopathology showed significant and progressive worsening in diabetic rats. Thus, renal function is compromised even prior to the onset of frank nephropathy. Changes in mitochondrial respiration and enzyme activities indicated existence of a hypermetabolic state. Higher mitochondrial GSH content and rates of GSH transport into mitochondria in kidneys from diabetic rats were only partially due tomore » changes in expression of mitochondrial GSH carriers and were mostly due to higher substrate supply. Although there are few clear indicators of oxidative stress, there are several redox changes that occur early and change further as nephropathy progresses, highlighting the complexity of the disease. Highlights: ►Adaptive changes in renal mitochondrial and redox status in diabetic rats. ►Modest renal dysfunction even prior to onset of nephropathy. ►Elevated concentrations of mitochondrial GSH in diabetic kidneys. ►Change in GSH due partly to increased protein expression of transporter. ►Oxidatively modified proteins in renal mitochondria from diabetic rats.« less
Trajectories of adolescent alcohol use after brief treatment in an Emergency Department

Objective The primary aim of this study was to identify distinct classes of trajectories of adolescent substance use following a brief motivational interviewing (MI) intervention in an Emergency Department (ED). The secondary aim was to identify predictors of class membership.
Waterless Condensers for the Teaching Laboratory: An Adaptation of Traditional Glassware

A simple adaptation of traditional “chemistry kit” condensers for the organic chemistry teaching laboratory is described. These waterless condensers have been employed safely with most solvents. They can be easily fabricated, stored, and used in the same manner as water-cooled condensers. These condensers were utilized in several different types of reactions and in an ethanol–water distillation providing the same product yields as reactions utilizing traditional water-cooled condensers.
Noncritical behavior of density fluctuations in supercooled water.

We have measured the absolute structure factor of liquid water over the wave-number range 0.05[lt][ital k][lt]0.30 A[sup [minus]1] and temperature range [minus]34[lt][ital T][lt]25 [degree]C with small-angle x-ray scattering. The correlation lengths of density fluctuations are small and change very little with temperature, suggesting that supercooled water may not be approaching a proposed spinodal point. The increasing density fluctuations with supercooling in water appear to be due to an increasing fraction of water molecules participating in clusters, not an increasing range of correlations.
Mechanical stimulation evokes rapid increases in extracellular adenosine concentration in the prefrontal cortex.

Mechanical perturbations can release ATP, which is broken down to adenosine. In this work, we used carbon-fiber microelectrodes and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry to measure mechanically stimulated adenosine in the brain by lowering the electrode 50 μm. Mechanical stimulation evoked adenosine in vivo (average: 3.3 ± 0.6 μM) and in brain slices (average: 0.8 ± 0.1 μM) in the prefrontal cortex. The release was transient, lasting 18 ± 2 s. Lowering a 15-μm-diameter glass pipette near the carbon-fiber microelectrode produced similar results as lowering the actual microelectrode. However, applying a small puff of artificial cerebral spinal fluid was not sufficient to evoke adenosine. Multiple stimulations within a 50-μm region of a slice did not significantly change over time or damage cells. Chelating calcium with EDTA or blocking sodium channels with tetrodotoxin significantly decreased mechanically evoked adenosine, signifying that the release is activity dependent. An alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionate receptor antagonist, 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione, did not affect mechanically stimulated adenosine; however, the nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1,2 and 3 (NTDPase) inhibitor POM-1 significantly reduced adenosine so a portion of adenosine is dependent on extracellular ATP metabolism. Thus, mechanical perturbations from inserting a probe in the brain cause rapid, transient adenosine signaling which might be neuroprotective. We have discovered immediate changes in adenosine concentration in the prefrontal cortex following mechanical stimulation. The adenosine increase lasts only about 20 s. Mechanically stimulated adenosine was activity dependent and mostly because of extracellular ATP metabolism. This rapid, transient increase in adenosine may help protect tissue and would occur during implantation of any electrode, such as during deep brain stimulation.
A developmental comparison of the effects of provided and generated questions on text recall

This study examined the effects of “providing” as compared to “generating” questions while reading on the recall of concepts and facts from a descriptive passage for students at three grade levels: 5th, 8th, and 11th. Being provided conceptual postquestions significantly increased recall of both main ideas and factual details when compared to a reading-only condition. In addition, being provided questions produced more efficient recall of main ideas per unit of time spent studying than either generated questions or simple reading of the passage. Student-generated questions significantly increased the recall of factual details only and did not enhance recall efficiency when compared to a reading-only control group. The results, however, suggest that the greater metacognitive awareness of the 11th graders enabled them to ask more idea-oriented questions and contributed to a shift in their focus during encoding from “selecting” information to “organizing” facts in relation to ideas.
Does the cerebellum initiate movement

Opinion is divided on what the exact function of the cerebellum is. Experiments are summarized that support the following views: (1) the cerebellum is a combiner of multiple movement factors; (2) it contains anatomically fixed permanent focal representation of individual body parts (muscles and segments) and movement modes (e.g., vestibular driven vs. cognitive driven); (3) it contains flexible changing representations/memory of physical properties of the body parts including muscle strength, segment inertia, joint viscosity, and segmental interaction torques (dynamics); (4) it contains mechanisms for learning and storage of the properties in item no. 3 through trial-and-error practice; (5) it provides for linkage of body parts, motor modes, and motordynamics via the parallel fiber system; (6) it combines and integrates the many factors so as to initiate coordinated movements of the many body parts; (7) it is thus enabled to play the unique role of initiating coordinated movements; and (8) this unique causative role is evidenced by the fact that: (a) electrical stimulation of the cerebellum can initiate compound coordinated movements; (b) in naturally initiated compound movements, cerebellar discharge precedes that in downstream target structures such as motor cerebral cortex; and (c) cerebellar ablation abolishes the natural production of compound movements in the awake alert individuals.
Radiation-induced lesion of the oral cavity: Thorium depositions detected by x-ray microanalysis

T horium is an element currently associated with nuclear fuel production.’ In the past it was employed in industry and medical practice, where it led to significant problems because of bone localization. Historically,2 three groups of patients have demonstrated the injurious effects of bone-seeking isotopes: chemists and dial painters who were ernployed in the luminous dial industry in the early 20th century; patients who received radium for therapeutic purposes at this same time; and patients receiving Thorotrast injections for radiologic diagnosis. Of these, the first and last are of interest here since they are related directly to thorium. As early as 1924, at a dental meeting, Blum reported cases of jaw necrosis in young women who worked at a radium dial plant in New Jersey. The material used in the paint for the dials contained mesothorium and radiothorium. The workers pointed the paintbrushes with their lips and thereby ingested significant amounts of thorium.. Between 1930 and 1945 thousands of patients were injected for diagnostic purposes with a colloidal solution of thorium dioxide known as Thorotrast. This was discontinued blecause of tissue damage at the injection site and the: possibility of delayed radiation injury. Since that time an extensive amount of literature3 has detailed the long-term effects of this radiologic contrast material. The following case involves an unusual instance of the tissue effects of thorium in a clinical setting that was quite difficult to understand, since there was no history of injection or ingestion of thorium.
The Oculocephalic Response in the Evaluation of the Dizzy Patient

The oculocephalic response (OCR) is a simple office maneuver that assesses the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). An abnormal response is manifested clinically as refixation saccades following a rapid horizontal head movement. Because little attention has been given to the OCR in the literature, a prospective study was undertaken with 112 consecutive patients who presented with dizziness and underwent OCR testing followed by caloric evaluation. Agreement was good between the OCR and caloric evaluation (kappa = 0.44). Specificity was quite high (97%); sensitivity was found to be less (39%). Positive (68%) and negative (90%) predictive values of the OCR illustrate that the clinician can often anticipate the results of caloric testing based on this response. This easily performed test of the VOR is a useful tool in the evaluation of the dizzy patient.
A resolution to the interpretive dilemmas created by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory 2 (MMPI-2)? A reply to Ben-Porath and Graham

In my original article (Strassberg, 1991) I described (1)some of the changes introduced by the MMPI-2, (2) possible interpretive dilemmas created by these changes, and (3) strategies for dealing with these dilemmas. In their reply to my paper, Ben-Porath and Graham (preceding paper) suggest that the differences between the MMPI-2 and the MMPI (1) are to be expected, (2) are less important than I imply, and (3) when they do occur, will almost always reveal the superiority of the MMPI-2. In this reply to Ben-Porath and Graham, I explain why, despite their reassurances, I continue to contend that interpretive dilemmas can exist when using the MMPI-2, but these should not deter us from using this instrument.
Actions of two highly potent organophosphorus neuropathy target esterase inhibitors in mammalian cell lines

Abstract Neuropathy target esterase (NTE) is inhibited by many organophosphorus compounds that induce delayed neuropathy. This study examines two of the most potent NTE inhibitors, 2-octyl-4H-1,3,2-benzodioxaphosphorin 2-oxide (OBDPO) and ethyl octylphosphonofluoridate (EOPF), in cell lines with neural properties (PC-12 and NB41A3) and of nonneural origin (C6 and HeLa). NTE-like esteratic activity is higher in PC-12, HeLa and C6 cells than in NB41A3 cells and in each case is inhibited 50% by OBDPO and EOPF at 0.03–3.4 nM in vitro and by OBDPO at 0.080–36 nM in situ in culture. An NTE-like protein(s) of about 155 kDa is phosphorylated and labeled by [3H-octyl]OBDPO in these cell lines in the same order as their relative NTE esteratic activity. Cytotoxic levels of OBDPO and EOPF (300–500 μM) are generally 105 to >107-fold higher than required for NTE inhibition. PC-12 cells and OBDPO/[3H]OBDPO and EOPF are therefore suitable for research on non-lethal biochemical disruptions from NTE phosphorylation and aging.
Hereditary angioedema: a current state-of-the-art review, VIII: current status of emerging therapies

Objective To provide an overview on the current status of emerging therapies for hereditary angioedema (HAE) in the United States. Data Sources Summary statements were obtained from each pharmaceutical company regarding their agent. Study Selection Each agent is undergoing or has completed phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Results Berinert P, a purified, virus-inactivated, human plasma-derived C1 inhibitor (C1-INH) concentrate, is being investigated in 2 international, multicenter, prospective trials. Experience with this agent in Europe and Canada indicates it is effective and safe. Cinryze is a nanofiltered C1-INH replacement therapy demonstrated to be effective and safe in acute and prophylactic arms of a phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Rhucin, a recombinant human C1-INH replacement therapy from transgenic rabbits, has been shown to be effective and safe in phase 2 and phase 2/3 studies, with an additional phase 3 study ongoing. DX-88 or ecallantide, a potent and specific inhibitor of plasma kallikrein, achieved all primary and secondary efficacy end points in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, phase 3 study, with a second phase 3 study ongoing. Icatibant, a potent and specific peptidomimetic bradykinin 2 receptor antagonist, was studied in 2 phase 3 trials: FAST 1 (For Angioedema Subcutaneous Treatment) did not achieve statistical significance for the primary end point but did so for secondary end points, whereas FAST 2 achieved statistical significance for primary and secondary end points. Conclusions The future treatment of HAE in the United States appears promising based on progress being made in drug development for this orphan disease.
Momentum fluctuations in the fragmentation of neutron-rich nuclei.

We generalize the Goldhaber momentum-dispersion formula to the case of a ``two-fluid'' nucleus, in which the nucleons of one fluid have a different mean square momentum from those of the other fluid. The model predicts that fragments originated from the core of neutron-rich nuclei have a transverse momentum width which is significantly larger than that of a weakly bound ``halo'' neutron, and that both are much smaller than the \ensuremath{\sim}100 MeV/c widths observed in the fragmentation of less exotic nuclei.
INHIBITION OF EHRLICH ASCITES TUMOR WITH 5-FLUOROURACIL AND OTHER AGENTS.

Abstract Tumor growth inhibition and a decreased mitotic index was evident following treatment with 5-FU or its ribosides, FUR and FUDR; as well as hydrocortisone treatment. Little or no changes were observed histochemically for DNA, histone or total protein after treatment with hydrocortisone. 5-FU treatment, in contrast to this, produced unbalanced growth with changes in the ratio of DNA to histone and protein per cell, since histone and protein were found increased in relation to DNA. Autoradiographic studies support these histochemical findings. The relative amounts of protein-bound sulf-hydryl groups in 5-fluorouracil treated tumor cells was decreased, while the disulfide groups were increased.
Psychometric engineering as art

The Psychometric Society is “devoted to the development of Psychology as a quantitative rational science”. Engineering is often set in contradistinction with science; art is sometimes considered different from science. Why, then, juxtapose the words in the title:psychometric, engineering, andart? Because an important aspect of quantitative psychology is problem-solving, and engineering solves problems. And an essential aspect of a good solution is beauty—hence, art. In overview and with examples, this presentation describes activities that are quantitative psychology as engineering and art—that is, as design. Extended illustrations involve systems for scoring tests in realistic contexts. Allusions are made to other examples that extend the conception of quantitative psychology as engineering and art across a wider range of psychometric activities.
Sight-Singing: Ten Years of Published Research

The purpose of this article was to review published research on sight-singing from the past 10 years, 1998-2008. Several authors published research in various areas in sight-singing. These included...
Recognition of minor constituents in reflectance spectra of Allan Hills 84001 chips and the importance for remote sensing on Mars

— Reflectance spectra of splits 92 and 271 from the Martian meteorite Allan Hills (ALH) 84001 are presented and analyzed in this paper. Although the visible and infrared spectra of both chips show that the dominant mineralogy is low-Ca pyroxene, the focus here is on identification of the minor constituents. Infrared spectra measured at multiple spots along the surface of chips 92 and 271 show subtle spectroscopic variations due to changes in the low-Ca pyroxene texture and composition and to the presence of secondary minerals. Absorption bands observed near 0.93 and 1.95 μm are characteristic of low-Ca pyroxene. Strong mid-infrared reststrahlen bands are observed near 9 and 19.5 μm in all surface spectra, and additional bands near 7, 10.5, 11.4, 17.8, 20.5 and 23 μm are variable depending on the low-Ca pyroxene texture and the presence of secondary minerals. Selected spectra exhibit carbonate features near 4, 6.4–7.1 and 11.3 μm. Detailed analysis of these carbonate features indicates the presence of Mg-Fe carbonate, which is consistent with petrographic studies. Many of these spectra with strong carbonate features exhibit a magnetite feature near 17.9 μm and a shoulder near 20.5 μm that cannot be uniquely ascribed to one mineral. Spectroscopic identification of the minor carbonate and magnetite minerals in this probable piece of Mars indicates that detection of small amounts of these minerals of possible biological significance will be possible using infrared hyperspectral analyses of the Martian surface. Also of importance for remote sensing on Mars is the result that Mg, Fe and Mg-Fe carbonates in a low-Ca pyroxene matrix should be distinguishable from one another in the spectral region measured by the thermal emmitance spectrometer (TES).
Crystal Structure of the 2:1 Charge-Transfer Salt Derived from Hexamethylenetetraselenafulvalene (HMTSF) and 7,7,8,8-Tetracyano-p-Quinodimethane (TCNQ), (HMTSF)2(TCNQ)

Abstract The 2:1 charge-transfer salt (HMTSF)2(TCNQ) crystallizes (from mesitylene) in the monoclinic system, space group P21/c, with the following cell constants: a = 13.993(4) A, b = 10.723(3) A, c = 13.032(3) A, β = 112.71(2)°, V = 1803.8 A3, D meand = 2.10(1) g cm−3, D caled = 2.114 g cm−3 (for two formula units per cell). The crystal structure of (HMTSF)2(TCNQ) consists of linear chains of alternating donor diads and acceptor monads propagating along the crystallographic b axis. Within these mixed stacks, the donor/donor overlap is of the ring-over-double bond type (mean separation 3.72 A), while the donor/acceptor overlap (mean separation 3.46 A) is such that the HMTSF molecule is very nearly parallel to and directly centered above the adjacent TCNQ molecule. Strong interstack interactions of the types Se(HMTSF)…Se(HMTSF), 3.64 A, and Se(HMTSF)…N(TCNQ), 3.29 A, serve to couple adjacent mixed stacks. The crystal structure of this 2:1 salt is compared to that of its 1:1 stoichiometric congener, HMTSF-...
Evaluating large US‐based equity mutual funds using risk‐adjusted performance measures

Purpose – This paper seeks to evaluate the risk‐adjusted performance of the largest US‐based equity mutual funds using rigorous analysis grounded in modern portfolio theory and present the results in a manner which is comprehensible to a lay investor.Design/methodology/approach – This study evaluates the performance of the 20 largest US‐based mutual funds using risk‐adjusted returns during 1995‐2004. In particular, a relatively new risk‐adjusted performance measure by Modigliani and Modigliani is used to evaluate these equity funds. This study also utilizes a variation of the Sortino Ratio to account for downside risk.Findings – The results show that the funds with the highest returns may lose their attractiveness once the degree of risk had been factored into the analysis. Conversely, some funds may look very attractive once their low risk is factored into their performance.Research limitations/implications – Future researchers may want to investigate the effects of factors, such as fund manager, compens...
A Brownian Dynamics model of separation-by-partitioning in nanofluidic devices

We present a Brownian Dynamics model for describing the performance of nanofluidic devices used for biological molecule separation. Our present work focuses on the process of separation of electric-field-driven DNA molecules by partitioning, using periodic nanofilter arrays. Our results show that experimental results for molecules up to 20 persistence lengths can be modeled using the worm-like-chain model, provided free draining behavior is appropriately accounted for in the model.In particular, our model is able to capture the experimental results of Fu et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett., 97, 018103 (2006)] using realistic values of all physical parameters while being more efficient than explicit molecular dynamics methods.
Modeling habitat potential for elk expansion in Michigan, USA

ABSTRACT Elk (Cervus elaphus) range expansion and reintroduction is a topic of national interest in wildlife management. Eastern states are facilitating the recolonization of elk to historic ranges. Success of these herds depends on habitat evaluations, site-specific considerations of human tolerance to elk and interactions between elk and existing wildlife. Interest in elk restoration has increased for multiple stakeholders in Michigan (USA), where prospering elk suggest there is potential for range expansion. Habitat quality at the landscape scale for elk in Michigan depends primarily on available forage, suitable cover, habitat diversity, and road densities so we quantified these factors in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan using a habitat suitability index model framework. We focused our analysis on target areas of interest and compared habitat suitability values occurring at those locations to values occurring within the current elk range (Pigeon River County State Forest area, or Pigeon River). We used elk habitat utilization information associated with the Pigeon River to validate and adjust our habitat suitability model. We also included a model that assigned less weight to the road density parameter, to account for uncertainty regarding the influence of roads on elk. Results from our habitat models suggested that patches of moderately suitable habitat exist outside the Pigeon River range in Michigan. Target areas differed in quality and quantity of habitat when compared to existing elk range, but habitat suitability values overlapped considerably among locations. Large patches of moderately suitable habitat also occurred outside of target areas. Results suggest that Michigan has potential to support an expanded elk range; however, additional site-specific considerations (land ownership, winter snowpack, deer-elk interaction, wolf density) likely need to be accounted for at potential restoration and expansion sites.
A new modified Lekhnitskii formalism à la Stroh for steady-state waves in anisotropic elastic materials

Abstract For the analysis of a two-dimensional steady-state motion such as the surface wave in an anisotropic elastic half-space, the Stroh formalism has always been employed. The solutions are in terms of the elastic stiffnesses Cαβ. The Lekhnitskii formalism for elastostatics that provides the solutions in terms of the reduced elastic compliances sαβ′ is not applicable for two-dimensional steady-state motion. We present a new modified Lekhnitskii formalism in the style of Stroh that can be employed for analyzing two-dimensional steady-state motion. In contrast to the Stroh formalism for which one computes the eigenvector b in terms of the eigenvector a, the new modified Lekhnitskii formalism can compute the eigenvector b without computing the vector a. This feature is attractive in the study of surface waves because the vector b is related to the surface traction. The vanishing of the surface traction at the boundary of the half-space is the key in the surface wave theory. Application to one-component surface waves shows that the conditions for such waves are easily deduced. Motivated by the new modified Lekhnitskii formalism we show that an eigenrelation for the vector b can also be derived for the Stroh formalism.
The molecular biology of immunoglobulin D

Immunoglobulin D (IgD) is co-expressed with immunoglobulin M (IgM) on the membranes of most B cells, yet its biological function has remained a mystery. Recent detailed information on the structure and transcription of the unusual IgD heavy chain (delta) gene in mouse suggests a complex genetic control. A model is presented for the developmental regulation of IgM and IgD and roles suggested for the membrane and secreted forms of IgD in the immune network.
Characterization of adenylate cyclase in human retinal pigment epithelial cells in vitro

Human retinal pigment epithelial cells in culture demonstrate adenylate cyclase activity. It is membrane-bound and modulated by GTP regulatory proteins. It is effectively activated only by beta-adrenergic agonists ( l -isoproterenol ≥ l -epinephrine > l -norepinephrine) and some prostaglandins (PGE 1 and PGE 2 , but not PGF 1α ). The adrenergic response appears to be mediated by beta-2 receptors. No inhibitory ligands could be demonstrated. Its characteristics, which are similar to functional adenylate cyclase complexes in other mammalian cells, and its selective and sensitive agonist responsiveness, suggest a possible physiologic role in the regulation of human retinal pigment epithelial-cell function.
Electronic fetal monitoring during premature labor and the occurrence of perinatal mortality in very low birthweight infants.

: The efficacy of intrapartum electronic fetal heart rate monitoring (EFM) in reducing perinatal mortality is uncertain. In a multihospital study in King County, Washington, we compared the effect of EFM with periodic auscultation in singleton infants with birthweights of 700 to 1500 g. Charts were reviewed for all 304 such pregnancies delivered during 1977-1979 at the 14 area hospitals that provide obstetric care. The group with periodic auscultation showed a relatively higher proportion of risk factors for perinatal mortality: extremely low birthweight (< 1100 g), noncephalic presentation, delivery outside a tertiary obstetric center, and absence of premature rupture of membranes. Adjusted for these risk factors, the perinatal mortality of the EFM group was only slightly less than that of the group with periodic auscultation (relative risk = 0.91; 95% confidence limits = 0.65–1.3). Our results suggest that in infants of very low birthweight, the probability of perinatal death is little affected by the choice of EFM or periodic auscultation to monitor fetal heart rate.
Anti‐Poverty Politics in Chile: A Preliminary Assessment of the Chile Solidario Program

This paper addresses what is one of the thorniest issues in Chile's economic policy making today: the question of poverty and the Chile Solidario program which was designed to combat extreme poverty. The paper discusses who is poor in Chile, the problems with the existing data on poverty and extreme poverty, and the content of the program. The paper also contains an assessment of the short term effects of Chile Solidario. Based on the existing data, the conclusion is that Chile Solidario has failed to reduce poverty in the short term.
Identifying a cohort of US twins using Social Security Administration records.

A sample of pairs of twins who were born in the United States in 1919 and survived to adulthood is identified through an innovative and large-scale application of the methodology of probabilistic linkage. The social security program began in the United States in November 1936, and the file of applicants for a social security number which was used in this study is the closest thing in the United States to a population register. The study results are very satisfactory, and demonstrate the superiority of probabilistic linkage to exact linkage. We estimate that about 33,000 twin pairs were born in the United States in 1919 and about 19,000 survived to age 17. Since the social security number was not then, at the inception of the program, the universal identifier that it is today, the number of enumerated twin pairs is somewhat less. Nonetheless, over 16,000 twin pairs can be identified by the method of probabilistic linkage. By comparison, only about half as many can be identified by straightforward exact linkage.
Hepatic Cyp2d and Cyp26a1 mRNAs and activities are increased during mouse pregnancy.

There is considerable evidence that drug disposition is altered during human pregnancy and based on probe drug studies, CYP2D6 activity increases during human pregnancy. The aim of this study was to determine whether the changes of CYP2D6 activity observed during human pregnancy could be replicated in the mouse, and explore possible mechanisms of increased CYP2D6 activity during pregnancy. Cyp2d11, Cyp2d22, Cyp2d26 and Cyp2d40 mRNA was increased (P 0.05) in Cyp2d9 and Cyp2d10 mRNA. In agreement with the increased Cyp2d mRNA, Cyp2d-mediated dextrorphan formation from dextromethorphan was increased 2.7-fold (P < 0.05) on GD19 (56.8±39.4 pmol/min/mg protein) when compared with the non-pregnant controls (20.8±11.2 pmol/min/mg protein). An increase in Cyp26a1 mRNA (10-fold) and retinoic acid receptor (Rar)β mRNA (2.8-fold) was also observed during pregnancy. The increase in Cyp26a1 and Rarβ mRNA during pregnancy indicates increased retinoic acid signaling in the liver during pregnancy. A putative retinoic acid response element was identified within the Cyp2d40 promoter and the mRNA of Cyp2d40 correlated (P < 0.05) with Cyp26a1 and Rarβ. These results show that Cyp2d mRNA is increased during mouse pregnancy the and mouse may provide a suitable model to investigate the mechanisms underlying the increased clearance of CYP2D6 probes observed during human pregnancy. Our findings also suggest that retinoic acid signaling in the liver is increased during pregnancy, which may have broader implications to energy homeostasis in the liver during pregnancy.
Exploring biological electron transfer pathway dynamics with the Pathways plugin for VMD.

We describe the new Pathways plugin for the molecular visualization program VMD. The plugin identifies and visualizes tunneling pathways and pathway families in biomolecules and calculates relative electronic couplings. The plugin includes unique features to estimate the importance of individual atoms for mediating the coupling, to analyze the coupling sensitivity to thermal motion, and to visualize pathway fluctuations. The Pathways plugin is open source software distributed under the terms of the GNU public license.
A review of consensus analysis methods in consumer culture, organizational culture and national culture research

The cultural consensus model is a method that is used by anthropologists to study intracultural variance, intercultural differences and cultural consonance across a variety of contexts. In order to provide academic scholars who study consumer, organizational and national culture with an additional tool that could be used to triangulate on ethnographic conclusions, this paper reviews the conceptual and methodological foundations of the cultural consensus model. In addition, this paper identifies important considerations a researcher should bear in mind when using the cultural consensus model and discusses how the cultural consensus model both has been and could be used to study consumer culture, organizational culture and national culture research.
Design, Fabrication, and Testing of the Van Der Pauw Piezoresistive Structure for Pressure Sensing

In our specific application of the van der Pauw (VDP) structure as a pressure sensor, where the stress field varies significantly, smaller VDP size is beneficial. The resistivity of the VDP sensor is affected by the stress state of the entire area over which it lies, providing a relation between resistance and the average stress in an area, rather than the stress at a point. The further the area over which the VDP lies is reduced, the closer we approximate the stress at a point rather than the average stress over a large surface. Due to microfabrication and other limitations, small, point-like sensors may not be feasible. In our study, a clear relationship between size and sensitivity could not be made. However, it was apparent that size had little overall effect on sensitivity. In testing the VDP devices for comparison with conventional sensor types, it was found that the VDP devices had a linear response as expected, were the most sensitive, and provided a number of additional advantages. Specifically, the VDP device allows for significant miniaturization, because its resistance value is independent of size, and the measurement technique is independent of line resistance. The simple geometry of the VDP also simplifies fabrication.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Cytochemical and Physiological Effects of 6-Hydroxydopamine on Periarteriolar Nerves of Frogs

The frog retrolingual membrane was used as a model microcirculatory system for evaluating the role of neural control. Terminal arterioles were studied before and 2 to 21 days after topical application of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-HDA). When arterioles were visualized microscopically in vivo and stimulated directly with a microelectrode, 6-HDA reduced the normal, longitudinally conducted vasoconstriction to a local response. Current intensities needed for threshold responses averaged more than fourfold those of control thresholds. Nerve induced vasoconstriction was abolished, whereas nerve-induced vasodilation persisted after 6-HDA. Ultrastructurally, 6-HDA produced extensive degeneration only in perivascular nerves containing large granular vesicles, although vasomotor nerves with clear vesicles, vascular smooth muscle, Schwann cells, endothelial cells, motor end plates, and striated muscle appeared normal after 6-HDA treatment. Autoradiography and fluorescence histochemistry revealed that the perivascular nerves were no longer capable of taking up or binding exogenous catecholamine. The results indicate that topically applied 6-HDA produces selective dysfunction of adrenergic nerves correlated with fine structural degeneration. The absence of conducted vasoconstrictor responses in this preparation indicates their dependence on an intact adrenergic nerve supply.
Analysis of treatment for small cell cancer of the bladder and report of three cases

Objectives. To present our experience with 3 patients with small cell cancer (SCC) of the bladder who were treated with different modalities and review the literature for patients undergoing primary chemoradiotherapy. SCC of the bladder is a rare tumor, with patients commonly presenting with metastatic disease. Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, either alone or as part of combined therapy, have been used. Because of the rarity of this disease, no prospective studies evaluating the most effective treatment have been done. Methods. The medical records of 3 patients diagnosed with SCC of the bladder at our institution were reviewed. Additionally, we reviewed published reports to identify all cases of SCC of the bladder treated with primary chemoradiotherapy. Results. Three patients with SCC of the bladder were identified at our institution. A total of 23 patients with SCC of the bladder who were treated with primary chemoradiotherapy were identified: 22 in published reports and 1 at our institution. Patients presented with muscle-invasive disease (17%), extravesical disease only (26%), and metastatic disease (52%). Multiagent chemotherapy was administered to most patients. The reported median radiation dose was 6000 cGy. A total of 16 patients (70%) were alive at a median follow-up of 34 months. The median survival of patients had not yet been reached in this study at the last follow-up. We did not find any reports of SCC recurrence in the bladder, and the bladder was preserved in most patients (87%). Conclusions. SCC of the bladder should be viewed as a systemic disease, because most patients present with metastatic disease. Primary chemoradiotherapy appears to be an effective treatment modality. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the optimal treatment further. UROLOGY 64: 494‐498, 2004. © 2004 Elsevier Inc.
WSI architecture for L-U decomposition: a radar array processor

Presents a wafer scale architecture for a radar array processor. The computation intensive block in this processor is the L-U decomposition block, which is amenable to reconfigurable wafer implementation. The authors' design employs only two types of cells thus facilitating restructuring through laser linking and cutting. Details of these cells are presented as is the mapping of the algorithm to a systolic array architecture. In particular, the authors discuss the internal switches and multiplexers of the multiply-accumulate cell, and the external switches. Also described is the fast reciprocal cell which is expressly developed for this radar processor. Finally, the reconfiguration strategy is discussed. >
A Hornet (Vespa crabro) Steals Prey from a Spider (Argiope aurantia)

Abstract I observed a large Vespa crabro (European Hornet) steal prey from an Argiope aurantia (Yellow Garden Spider) in a forested housing development in northern Georgia. The hornet landed in the spider's web and in less than three minutes removed the prey previously captured by the spider. The spider made no attempt to attack or subdue the hornet. European Hornets may switch from predatory to scavenging habits in the fall of the year as the nesting season progresses, a trait documented in other vespines. To my knowledge, this is the first recorded incident of a hornet stealing prey from another predator.
Using the Genetic Lag Value to Determine the Optimal Maximum Parity for Culling in Commercial Swine Breeding Herds1

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to determine the value of the genetic loss associated with retaining sows in a commercial herd for additional parities. To estimate this value, a spreadsheet was developed incorporating culling rate by parity, generation interval, genetic improvement rate, and economic values for each trait. Number born alive, 21-d litter weight, and days to market were the traits examined in this study. The genetic improvement per generation (economic values assigned) for these traits were 0.3 pigs ($22.00/pig), 1.36 kg ($1.54/kg), and 3.0 d ($0.17/d), respectively. Backfat was not included because little, if any, genetic improvement is being made for this trait, suggesting that most maternal lines have a near ideal backfat level. The genetic lag value associated with retaining a sow to parity 3, 5, and 7 was $18.23, $32.01, and $47.99, respectively, in a herd whose seedstock supplier has a generation interval of 1.5 yr. The average genetic lag value was calculated when the breeding herd parity structure differed because producers allowed differing maximum parities at culling (automatic cull for old age). The average economic value for each sow in a herd with forced culling at parity 3, 5, and 7 and an 18.8% culling rate by parity (annualized 42.3% culling rate) was $11.93, $16.47, and $20.70, respectively. The value of the genetic lag represents lost opportunity, and when this value exceeds the gilt development variable costs, it represents the optimal time for culling the sow from the breeding herd and replacing it with a gilt.
The Role of Oestradiol in Sexually Dimorphic Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrena Axis Responses to Intracerebroventricular Ethanol Administration in the Rat

Systemic ethanol (EtOH) administration activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis of rats in a sexually dimorphic manner. The present studies tested the role played by the CNS in this phenomenon. In order to localize the effects of the drug to the brain, we utilized an EtOH administration paradigm whereby a small, non-toxic amount of the drug was delivered intracerebroventricularly (icv). Icv EtOH rapidly diffuses throughout the CSF and brain, and does not cause neuronal damage or have any long-term physiological or behavioral effects. Experimental groups included intact males, intact cycling females, and ovariectomized (OVX) animals with or without replacement estradiol (E2). Icv EtOH- induced HPA hormonal activation was determined by measuring plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) levels. Activation of brain areas that both regulate HPA function and are responsive to gonadal hormones was determined using expression of the transcription factor c-fos (Fos) as a marker of neuronal activity. We observed sex- and estrous cycle- dependent differences in HPA activation by EtOH as measured by both these parameters. ACTH secretion was highest in females in proestrus or estrus, just prior to and after the endogenous peak of E2, as was Fos expression in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) and the locus coreuleus (LC) of the brainstem. In OVX animals, E2 replacement caused an increase in PVN and LC Fos expression in response to icv EtOH as compared to OVX controls, but a decrease in ACTH secretion. Taken together these results indicate that at the level of the CNS, EtOH stimulates HPA activity more robustly at times when the effects of E2 are high, but that E2 alone is not responsible for the effect. The data further suggest that the LC plays an important role in the circuitry, which appears to be different from that activated following the systemic administration of EtOH.
Robust Control of Residential Demand Response Network With Low Bandwidth Input

This preliminary work is concerned with low sample rate control of a residential Demand Response network. Residential Demand Response networks are very high order nonlinear stochastic systems. We provide a methodology for dealing with this complicated type of system. Then we examine the performance and robustness of potential controllers. To date, only sliding mode control has been examined, but further work will compare sliding mode control to other robust controllers.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at high risk for surgical complications: summary assessment of the California Technology Assessment Forum.

Background The California Technology Assessment Forum is dedicated to assessment and public reporting of syntheses of available data on medical technologies. In this assessment, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) was evaluated for patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) who are at high risk for complications. Methods and Results In this assessment, 5 criteria were used: Regulatory approval, sufficient scientific evidence to allow conclusions on effectiveness, evidence that the technology improves net health outcomes, evidence that the technology is as beneficial as established methods, and availability of the technology outside investigational settings. In this assessment, all 5 criteria were judged to have been met. The primary benefit of TAVR is the ability to treat AS in patients who would otherwise be ineligible for surgical aortic valve replacement. It may also be useful for patients at high surgical risk by potentially reducing periprocedural complications and avoiding the morbidity and recovery from undergoing heart surgery. Potential harms include the need for conversion to an open procedure, perioperative death, myocardial infarction, stroke, bleeding, valve embolization, aortic regurgitation, heart block that requires a permanent pacemaker, renal failure, pulmonary failure, and major vascular complications such as cardiac perforation or arterial dissection. Potential long-term harms include death, stroke, valve failure or clotting, and endocarditis. As highlighted at the February 2012 California Technology Assessment Forum meeting, the dispersion of this technology to new centers across the United States must proceed with careful thought given to training and proctoring multidisciplinary teams to become new centers of excellence. Conclusions TAVR is a potentially lifesaving procedure that may improve quality of life for patients at high risk for surgical AVR. However, attention needs to be paid to appropriate patient selection, their preoperative evaluation, surgical techniques, and postoperative care to preserve and improve on the results attained in the Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valve trial. Specialty societies are collaborating to ensure that this happens in a rational and comprehensive manner.