cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal Clustering of Hierarchical Hyper-Ring Multicomputers

The Hyper-Ring (HR) is presented as a hierarchical and scalable ring-based topology for small-scale to massively parallel systems which eliminates the major disadvantages of large-scale rings. With a fixed node degree, a low cost, symmetric properties, and a simple routing scheme, the HR topology is very suitable for small-scale to large-scale multicomputer systems. Assuming pipelined communication, the performance of 4- and 5-dimensional HR multicomputers is modeled, the performance model is evaluated, and the results of the performance model evaluation are analyzed. Moreover, the impact of the traffic load and message length on the system performance is analyzed. The major objective of this work is to shed light on how to cluster HRs in order to optimize the system efficiency. Assuming a uniform message arrival rate into the nodes of the HR, the results show that the efficiency of HR topologies with an equal number of nodes is best when the topologies are perfectly balanced. The next best-performing HRs are those with larger rings at the lower (outer) levels and smaller rings at the higher levels (near the root ring). The results confirm that the HR topology is suitable for massively parallel and scalable multicomputer systems as well as for networks of workstations.
High efficiency thin film silicon solar cell and module

An initial efficiency of 14.5% (Jsc=14.4mA/cm/sup 2/, Voc=1.41V, FF=71.9%) has been achieved for a-Si:H/transparent inter-layer/crystalline Si solar cell (total area of 1cm/sup 2/). Both a-Si and crystalline Si films were fabricated by plasma chemical vapor deposition at low temperature. The short circuit current (Jsc) was enhanced by the introduction of transparent interlayer without increasing the thickness of a-Si:H layer. An initial aperture efficiency of 12.3% has been achieved for 910/spl times/455mm/sup 2/ a-Si/crystalline Si thin film integrated solar cell module. Reasonably high deposition rate of 11 A/s for the deposition of crystalline Si for 1/spl times/1m/sup 2/ area has been achieved. By applying a deposition conditions of this high deposition rate, an initial aperture efficiency of 11.2% has been obtained above sized Si stacked solar cell module.
DYNAMIC INTEGRATION: DYNAMICS | Metabolism

The sum total of all chemical transformations involved in energy production and the synthesis and storage of small molecules is termed metabolism. The growth of a cell is almost wholly dependent on the careful management of resources made available by metabolic processes. As a result metabolism is highly regulated with significant cross talk between it and other processes such as signaling and gene regulation. Like all biological processes, metabolism is a dynamic process with short- and long-term regulation adjusting supply and demand. Short-term regulation of metabolism is achieved largely through allosteric regulators that create negative feedback loops together with the use of specific network topologies that confer particular regulatory behaviors. In this article the essential operating principles that govern the short-term regulation of metabolism is discussed. Of particular importance is the idea that short-term regulation of metabolism is distributed without any central authority dictating its operation. Dynamics is seen as the end result of all components in a metabolic pathway operating in a concerted manner. Specific pathway examples, termed metabolic motifs, are introduced where their essential properties are discussed. These include linear, branched, and cyclic configurations as well an extended discussion of negative feedback.
SHEAR STRESS DISTRIBUTION IN THE PORCINE BRAIN DUE TO ROTATIONAL IMPACT

In the study, developed were two-dimensional finite element models for three coronal sections of the porcine brain and the results were compared with injury data from animal experiments performed at the University of Pennsylvania. The models consisted of a three-layered skull, dura, CSF, white matter, gray matter and ventricles. The maximum shear stress distribution produced from the models was found to be in good agreement with experimental findings. Diffuse axonal injury as indicated by the experiments was found in areas of high shear stress which persisted for relatively longer periods during the impact.
Osteotomy about the knee for degenerative and rheumatoid arthritis.

In seventy-one patients with degenerative arthritis and sixteen with quiescent rheumatoid arthritis, proximal tibial or femoral osteotomy was performed for varus or valgus deformity. The correction needed was gauged in standing roentgenograms. After one to nine years, the patients with either form of arthritis had good or fair results in all but three cases in each group, gauged mostly by relief of pain, since the range of motion did not change. The results tended to be better in patients with lesser degrees of arthrosis.
A comparison between thermospray and particle beam LC/MS for environmental applications

A study is described comparing thermospray LC/MS and Particle Beam LC/MS techniques. The two systems are examined on the basis of applicability, quantitative and qualitative performance. On the basis of this study, the conclusions are drawn that the two techniques are roughly equivalent in both applicability, and quantitative performance, but generate different types of spectral information.
Thyroid hormone receptor-β agonists prevent hepatic steatosis in fat-fed rats but impair insulin sensitivity via discrete pathways

Liver-specific thyroid hormone receptor-β (TRβ)-specific agonists are potent lipid-lowering drugs that also hold promise for treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and hepatic insulin resistance. We investigated the effect of two TRβ agonists (GC-1 and KB-2115) in high-fat-fed male Sprague-Dawley rats treated for 10 days. GC-1 treatment reduced hepatic triglyceride content by 75%, but the rats developed fasting hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia, attributable to increased endogenous glucose production (EGP) and diminished hepatic insulin sensitivity. GC-1 also increased white adipose tissue lipolysis; the resulting increase in glycerol flux may have contributed to the increase in EGP. KB-2115, a more TRβ- and liver-specific thyromimetic, also prevented hepatic steatosis but did not induce fasting hyperglycemia, increase basal EGP rate, or diminish hepatic insulin sensitivity. Surprisingly, insulin-stimulated peripheral glucose disposal was diminished because of a decrease in insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle glucose uptake. Skeletal muscle insulin signaling was unaffected. Instead, KB-2115 treatment was associated with a decrease in GLUT4 protein content. Thus, although both GC-1 and KB-2115 potently treat hepatic steatosis in fat-fed rats, they each worsen insulin action via specific and discrete mechanisms. The development of future TRβ agonists must consider the potential adverse effects on insulin sensitivity.
Endothelial CD74 mediates macrophage migration inhibitory factor protection in hyperoxic lung injury

Exposure to hyperoxia results in acute lung injury. A pathogenic consequence of hyperoxia is endothelial injury. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has a cytoprotective effect on lung endothelial cells; however, the mechanism is uncertain. We postulate that the MIF receptor CD74 mediates this protective effect. Using adult wild-type (WT), MIF-deficient (Mif(-/-)), CD74-deficient (Cd74(-/-)) mice and MIF receptor inhibitor treated mice, we report that MIF deficiency or inhibition of MIF receptor binding results in increased sensitivity to hyperoxia. Mif(-/-) and Cd74(-/-) mice demonstrated decreased median survival following hyperoxia compared to WT mice. Mif(-/-) mice demonstrated an increase in bronchoalveolar protein (48%) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (68%) following 72 hours of hyperoxia. Similarly, treatment with MIF receptor antagonist resulted in a 59% and 91% increase in bronchoalveolar lavage protein and LDH, respectively. Inhibition of CD74 in primary murine lung endothelial cells (MLECs) abrogated the protective effect of MIF, including decreased hyperoxia-mediated AKT phosphorylation and a 20% reduction in the antiapoptotic effect of exogenous MIF. Treatment with MIF decreased hyperoxia-mediated H2AX phosphorylation in a CD74-dependent manner. These data suggest that therapeutic manipulation of the MIF-CD74 axis in lung endothelial cells may be a novel approach to protect against acute oxidative stress.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitory Constituents of Propolis: Kinetics and Mechanism of Inhibition of Recombinant Human MAO-A and MAO-B

Propolis is the resinous material that bees gather from leaf buds, flowers and vegetables. Propolis extracts contain constituents with a broad spectra of pharmacological properties and are important ingredients of popular dietary supplements. Propolis extracts were evaluated in vitro for inhibition of recombinant human monoamine oxidase (MAO)-A and MAO-B. The dichloromethane extract of propolis showed potent inhibition of human MAO-A and MAO-B. Further fractionation identified the most active fractions as rich in flavonoids. Galangin and apigenin were identified as the principal MAO-inhibitory constituents. Inhibition of MAO-A by galangin was about 36 times more selective than MAO-B, while apigenin selectivity for MAO-A vs. MAO-B was about 1.7 fold. Apigenin inhibited MAO-B significantly more potently than galangin. Galangin and apigenin were further evaluated for kinetic characteristics and the mechanism for the enzymes' inhibition. Binding of galangin and apigenin with MAO-A and -B was not time-dependent and was reversible, as suggested by enzyme-inhibitor binding and dissociation-dialysis assay. The inhibition kinetics studies suggested that galangin and apigenin inhibited MAO-A and -B by a competitive mechanism. Presence of prominent MAO inhibitory constituents in propolis products suggests their potential for eliciting pharmacological effects that might be useful in depression or other neurological disorders. The results may also have important implications in drug-dietary supplement interactions.
Release of histamine in rat hypothalamus and corpus striatum in vivo

Histamine has remained a putative neurotransmitter for many years, partially because some of the criteria necessary to define it as a central nervous system neurotransmitter have not been established. The demonstration of in vitro release and the quantification of turnover as an indirect measure of release have been complicated by the histological evidence for multiple histamine pools in the central nervous system. In brain, there are multiple cell types which probably contain histamine. These cells include mast cells, neurolipomastocytoid cells, microvascular endothelial cells, and a histaminergic neuronal system which has been visualized using immunocytochemical methods. Using in situ brain microdialysis and a sensitive and specific radioenzymatic assay for histamine, we have identified histamine in the extracellular space of the rat hypothalamus and corpus striatum in vivo. Following neuronal selective stimuli, significant increases in extracellular histamine levels only were observed in the posterior hypothalamus, where dense histaminergic neuronal terminals have been described. However, after manipulations targeted towards histamine-containing mast cells, such increases were seen in both the posterior hypothalamus and corpus striatum. In summary, this study demonstrates that endogenous histamine can be released from the posterior hypothalamus by stimuli targeted towards histamine neurons and that histamine may also be released by non-neuronal mast cell elements.
Biochemical Profiling of Histone Binding Selectivity of the Yeast Bromodomain Family

Background It has been shown that molecular interactions between site-specific chemical modifications such as acetylation and methylation on DNA-packing histones and conserved structural modules present in transcriptional proteins are closely associated with chromatin structural changes and gene activation. Unlike methyl-lysine that can interact with different protein modules including chromodomains, Tudor and MBT domains, as well as PHD fingers, acetyl-lysine (Kac) is known thus far to be recognized only by bromodomains. While histone lysine acetylation plays a crucial role in regulation of chromatin-mediated gene transcription, a high degree of sequence variation of the acetyl-lysine binding site in the bromodomains has limited our understanding of histone binding selectivity of the bromodomain family. Here, we report a systematic family-wide analysis of 14 yeast bromodomains binding to 32 lysine-acetylated peptides derived from known major acetylation sites in four core histones that are conserved in eukaryotes.
Translaminar screw fixation in the upper thoracic spine.

Object The use of pedicle screws (PSs) for instrument-assisted fusion in the cervical and thoracic spine has increased in recent years, allowing smaller constructs with improved biomechanical stability and repositioning possibilities. In the smaller pedicles of the upper thoracic spine, the placement of PSs can be challenging and may increase the risk of damage to neural structures. As an alternative to PSs, translaminar screws can provide spinal stability, and they may be used when pedicular anatomy precludes successful placement of PSs. The authors describe the technique of translaminar screw placement in the T-1 and T-2 vertebrae. Methods Seven patients underwent cervicothoracic fusion to treat trauma, neoplasm, or degenerative disease. Nineteen translaminar screws were placed, 13 at T-1 and six at T-2. A single asymptomatic T-2 screw violated the ventral laminar cortex and was removed. The mean clinical and radiographic follow up exceeded 14 months, at which time there were no cases of screw pull-out,...
Laban Movement Studies: A Program in Body-Mind Education

(1990). Laban Movement Studies: A Program in Body-Mind Education. The Educational Forum: Vol. 54, No. 1, pp. 117-122.
Efficiency of hospital service production in local markets: The balance sheet of U.S. medical armament

Abstract Using aggregates of acute care hospitals in given metropolitan areas as decision making units (DMUs), the hospital industry's technical efficiency in 319 U.S. metropolitan areas was evaluated. The performance of hospital aggregates may be as important to solving hospital cost inefficiency and waste problems as the performance of individual hospitals themselves. This study examines the determinants of a particularly important dimension of local aggregate performance-the technical efficiency with which hospital outputs are produced. Aggregate technical efficiencies are measured using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique. Results indicate that at least 3% of health care costs in the gross domestic product (GDP) are due to inefficiencies created by the excessive buildup of providers. Potential planning priorities for eliminating such waste in each local hospital market are recommended.
Managing mangroves with benthic biodiversity in mind: Moving beyond roving banditry

Abstract This review addresses mangrove management activities in the broader context of the diversity of the mangrove benthos. Goals for mangrove ecosystem management include silviculture, aquaculture, or ‘ecosystem services’ such as coastal protection. Silvicultural management of mangroves generally neglects the benthos, although benthic invertebrates may affect tree establishment and growth, and community composition of benthic invertebrates may be a reliable indicator of the state of managed mangrove forests. Similarly, mangrove aquaculture focuses on particular species with little attention paid either to impacts on other trophic levels or to feedbacks with the trees. Exploitation of mangrove-associated prawns, crabs, and molluscs has a total economic value > US $4 billion per year. These aquaculture operations still rely on wild-collected stock; world-wide patterns of exploitation fit the well-known process of ‘roving banditry’, where mobile agents move from location to location, rapidly exploiting and depleting local resources before moving on to other, as-yet unprotected grounds. Collection of brood stock and fishing for other external inputs required by aquaculture (e.g., ‘trash fish’) removes intermediate trophic levels from marine food webs, may destabilize them, and lead to secondary extinctions of higher-order predators. Increased attention being paid to the role of mangroves in coastal protection following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami provides an opportunity to reassess the relative merits of management focused on short-term economic gains. Managing for ecosystem services may ultimately preserve benthic biodiversity in mangrove ecosystems.
The role of affect in somatoform and factitious disorders

In this article, affect is viewed as a predisposing factor, a precipitant, a correlate, an exacerbating factor, a consequence, or a perpetuating factor in the pain and physical symptoms of somatoform and factitious disorders. Each mechanism of interaction warrants a slightly different approach to the assessment and treatment of these disorders. Current treatment options favor cognitive therapies to correct errors of amplification, behavior modification to desensitize fear, and experiential therapy to facilitate emotional expression.
Optimal retrieval strategies for carousel conveyors

This paper addresses the problem of optimal retrieval from a carousel conveyor. Algorithms are developed to find optimal retrieval strategies for both single and multiple orders. In the multiple order case, a dynamic programming solution is derived under a FIFO sequencing restriction. A bounding scheme is also proposed to make the solution procedure more efficient. It is further shown how the solution may be updated dynamically for incoming orders.
Air Transport of Patients with Pneumothorax: Is Tube Thoracostomy Required Before Flight?

Abstract Objective It is conventionally thought that patients with pneumothorax (PTX) require tube thoracostomy (TT) before air medical transport (AMT), especially in unpressurized rotor-wing (RW) aircraft, to prevent deterioration from expansion of the PTX or development of tension PTX. We hypothesize that patients with PTX transported without TT tolerate RW AMT without serious deterioration, as defined by hypotension, hypoxemia, respiratory distress, intubation, bag valve mask ventilation, needle thoracostomy (NT), or cardiac arrest during transport. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of a case-series of trauma patients transported to a single Level 1 trauma center via RW with confirmed PTX and no TT. Using standardized abstraction forms, we reviewed charts for signs of deterioration. Those patients identified as having clinical deterioration were independently reviewed for the likelihood that the clinical deterioration was a direct consequence of PTX. Results During the study period, 66 patients with confirmed PTX underwent RW AMT with an average altitude gain of 1890 feet, an average barometric pressure 586–600 mmHg, and average flight duration of 28 minutes. All patients received oxygen therapy; 14/66 patients (21%) were supported with positive pressure ventilation. Eleven of 66 patients (17%) had NT placed before flight and 4/66 (6%) had NT placed during flight. Four of 66 patients (6% CI0.3–11.7) may have deteriorated during AMT as a result of PTX; all were successfully managed with NT. Conclusions In this series, 6% of patients with PTX deteriorated as result of AMT without TT, yet all patients were managed successfully with NT. Routine placement of TT in patients with PTX before RW AMT may not be necessary. Further prospective evaluation is warranted.
Starting step size for an ODE solver

Abstract One of the more critical issues in solving ordinary differential equations by a step-by-step process occurs in the starting phase. Somehow the procedure must be supplied with an initial step size that is on scale for the problem at hand. It must be small enough to yield a reliable solution by the process, but not so small as to significantly affect the efficiency of solution. In this paper, we discuss an algorithm for obtaining a good starting step size and present a subroutine which can be readily used in most ODE solvers.
Innovation in the U.S. building sector: An assessment of patent citations in building energy control technology

Buildings are crucial to addressing energy problems because they are large consumers of end-use energy, and potential exists to dramatically improve their efficiencies. However, the pace of innovation in buildings is generally characterized as inadequate, despite the implementation of an array of policy instruments aimed at promoting efficiency. The literature on innovation in the building industry provides several explanations including: fragmented decision-making, principal agent problems, inadequate information, and limited learning across heterogeneous projects. We investigate the innovation process for buildings in the U.S. with a case study of patenting in energy management control systems (EMCS) for commercial buildings and programmable thermostats (PT) for residential buildings. Using U.S. patent data, we find that: (1) patenting activity peaked around 1980, subsequently declined, and then increased considerably in the past decade; (2) commercial, rather than residential, buildings account for the recent increase; and (3) building control technologies have benefitted from inventions originating outside the industry, notably from electronics and computers, with a shift toward the latter in recent years.
The Role of Kinesin-8 Proteins in Kinetochore Movements and Spindle Dynamics in Fission Yeast

The fission yeast proteins Klp5p and Klp6p are plus-end directed motors of the kinesin-8 family known to promote microtubule depolymerization. During mitosis these motors localize to the mitotic spindle. Although the kinesin 8s are not essential for cell division, their deletion leads to elongated interphase and mitotic microtubules and a delayed anaphase onset. To understand kinesin-8 roles in kinetochore movements, we study cells carrying a cold-sensitive allele of beta-tubulin. Placing these cells at 16oC for 7 hours depolymerizes their microtubules, arrests them in mitosis, and allows kinetochores to detach from the spindle poles. We then re-warm the cells and use fluorescence microscopy to observe chromosome reattachment and mitotic progression. We have tracked kinetochore and spindle pole positions in four dimensions, allowing us to quantify the dynamics of the kinetochore and spindle. Similar methods were previously used to characterize kinetochore dynamics in cells deleted for all the fission-yeast minus-end directed motors; there was no difference in the rate of final kinetochore-to-pole movements when these motors were removed. Our preliminary data show little difference in the rates of kinetochore-to-pole movements when the kinesin-8 genes are removed, but there are differences in kinetochore dynamics. These mutants show evidence of kinetochore-spindle association without the characteristic movement of the kinetochore toward the capturing spindle pole. In klp5D mutants some kinetochores are pushed as much as 4 spindle lengths away from either spindle pole, while klp6D mutants and wild type cells show no such behavior. Kinesin-8 deletion mutants also show increased spindle length fluctuations. In all these strains, most kinetochores are eventually recaptured and mitosis proceeds.
Net energy analysis of residential solar ponds

Abstract A net energy analysis (NEA) of three different residential solar pond scenarios is performed. A single home, a complex of twenty homes and a community system with district heating are considered. The designs considered, Rabl-Nielsen and Krass-LaViale, are studied for locations in Columbus, Ohio and in Northampton, Massachusetts. The analysis reveals that economies of scale and design considerations influence the net energy ratio (NER).
Absolute measurement of diffuse and specular reflectance using an FTIR spectrometer with an integrating sphere

A novel method for the absolute measurement of both diffuse and specular reflectance using a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere is presented. By mounting the sample in the center and referencing off the wall of the sphere, total and diffuse reflectance measurements can be made without having to use a reference sample. The specular reflectance is then calculated as the difference between the total and diffuse curves.
Inhibition of STAT-3 results in greater cetuximab sensitivity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Abstract Objective The inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) with the monoclonal antibody cetuximab reduces cell proliferation and survival which correlates with increased DNA damage. Since the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) is involved in the EGFr-induced signaling pathway, we hypothesized that depletion of STAT-3 may augment cetuximab-induced processes in human head and neck cancer cells. Materials and methods Human head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (UM-SCC-5) were transfected with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) against STAT-3 (STAT3-2.4 and 2.9 cells). A mutated form of this shRNA was transfected for a control (NEG4.17 cells). Radiosensitivity was assessed by a standard colony formation assay. Proliferation was assessed by daily cell counts following treatment and apoptosis was assessed by an annexin V-FITC assay. The alkaline comet assay was used to assess DNA damage. Results The STAT-3 knockdown cells (STAT3-2.4 and STAT3-2.9 cells) demonstrated enhanced radiosensitivity compared to control NEG4.17 cells, which correlated with increased apoptosis. Also, the STAT-3 knockdown cells demonstrated decreased proliferation with cetuximab treatments compared to control cells (NEG4.17). The increased cetuximab sensitivity of the STAT-3 knockdown cells correlated with increased apoptosis and DNA damage compared to control cells (NEG4.17). Conclusion These studies revealed that the greater anti-proliferative effects and increased cytotoxicity of cetuximab in the STAT3-2.4 and STAT3-2.9 cells compared to control NEG4.17 cells, may be a result of STAT3-mediated effects on cellular apoptosis and DNA damage.
On the importance of accuracy in mathematical expressions

A commentary is presented on the importance of accuracy in mathematical expressions and is illustrated by way of an example.
Stability of respiratory quotient and growth outcomes of very low birth weight infants.

Nutritional management of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants involves promoting growth at rates that mimic intrauterine rates. Nutritional intake at the recommended energy level to promote growth...
Hydrolysis rates of different small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) by the RNA silencing promoter complex, C3PO, determines their regulation by phospholipase Cβ

C3PO plays a key role in promoting RNA-induced gene silencing. C3PO consists of two subunits of the endonuclease translin-associated factor X (TRAX) and six subunits of the nucleotide-binding protein translin. We have found that TRAX binds strongly to phospholipase Cβ (PLCβ), which transmits G protein signals from many hormones and sensory inputs. The association between PLCβ and TRAX is thought to underlie the ability of PLCβ to reverse gene silencing by small interfering RNAs. However, this reversal only occurs for some genes (e.g. GAPDH and LDH) but not others (e.g. Hsp90 and cyclophilin A). To understand this specificity, we carried out studies using fluorescence-based methods. In cells, we find that PLCβ, TRAX, and their complexes are identically distributed through the cytosol suggesting that selectivity is not due to large scale sequestration of either the free or complexed proteins. Using purified proteins, we find that PLCβ binds ∼5-fold more weakly to translin than to TRAX but ∼2-fold more strongly to C3PO. PLCβ does not alter TRAX-translin assembly to C3PO, and brightness studies suggest one PLCβ binds to one C3PO octamer without a change in the number of TRAX/translin molecules suggesting that PLCβ binds to an external site. Functionally, we find that C3PO hydrolyzes siRNA(GAPDH) at a faster rate than siRNA(Hsp90). However, when PLCβ is bound to C3PO, the hydrolysis rate of siRNA(GAPDH) becomes comparable with siRNA(Hsp90). Our results show that the selectivity of PLCβ toward certain genes lies in the rate at which the RNA is hydrolyzed by C3PO.
Poster 10: Degree of Disability Is Predictive of Physical But Not Mental Health Quality of Life in Huntington's Disease

Objective To determine whether self-reported measures of disability are predictive of health-related quality of life (QoL) in Huntington's disease (HD). Background The disability paradox is a term coined to describe patients who report high quality of life despite chronic disability. Patients' objective health status and presence of disability may not correlate with their perception of health-related quality of life. This disability paradox has not been examined in patients with HD. Methods HD patients ( n = 25) completed self-reported measures of disability (the Older Americans Resource and Services ADL/IADL Scale, or OARS) and health-related QoL (SF-12 Health Status Survey, Physical and Mental Health Summary Scores). Clinician ratings of disease severity were collected using a five-point Likert scale. Pearson's correlations were used to analyze the relationship between level of disability, health-related QoL, and disease severity. Results Greater disability was associated with lesser physical health QoL (OARS Total r = 0.57, p r = 0.53, p r = 0.58, p r = 0.87, p r = 0.44, p r = 0.41, p = 0.053; r = 0.38, p = 0.075). Greater disease severity correlated with physical health QoL ( r = 0.50, p r = 0.33, p = 0.17). Conclusions The degree of self-reported disability in HD correlates with self-reported physical health QoL and clinician-rated disease severity but not with self-reported mental health QoL. This example of the disability paradox reinforces the need to evaluate and treat both physical and mental symptoms of HD, as each may contribute independently to quality of life.
Risk management in natural gas supply chain

Based on fundamental economic principles, we develop a discrete time, infinite horizon and equilibrium-based model for a typical natural gas supply chain where there is a perfect market, a market with a small number of producers and a pipeline connecting them.We extend the available literature by first developing a stationary rational expectations equilibrium (SREE) model for the market with a small number of firms. We show that the value of incorporating entry and exit is significant. A general SREE model is then developed for the entire supply chain. An optimal delivery and storage solution is presented for the pipeline based on the equilibrium values. The features of spot and forward prices in both markets are compared and analyzed. We compare a common approximation with the exact solution and identify the risks of using it.
The pedicled descending branch muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi flap for trunk and upper extremity reconstruction.

Summary Background The major blood supply of the latissimus dorsi muscle flap is based on the descending and tranverse branches of the thoracodorsal artery. This segmental blood supply allows the muscle to be split and harvested based solely on vascularization from the descending branch, thus sparing the latissimus dorsi muscle function. This article reports the use of the descending branch muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap in reconstructing defects on the trunk and upper extremities. Methods Five patients with defects on the trunk or upper extremities had soft tissue reconstruction with a pedicled descending branch muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap. A transverse skin paddle design was used in all cases. All flaps were performed by the senior author. Complications were recorded, and range of motion analysis was performed comparing operated and non-operated sides during follow-up appointments. Results The descending branch muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi flap was used for reconstruction of: the chest wall (2), axilla (2) and upper extremity (1). The skin paddles harvested ranged from 15×7cm to 24×9cm. All donor sites were closed primarily. There was one case of minor wound dehiscence on the donor site and one case of wound infection (reconstruction was for chronic, severe axillary hidradenitis suppuritiva). There were no incidences of seroma. In all cases, there was no difference in strength or range of motion around the shoulder joint when comparing the operated to the non-operated side. Conclusion The pedicled descending branch muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap with a transversely orientated skin paddle results in minimal functional deficit of the donor site, absence of seroma, low rate of flap complications and an aesthetically acceptable scar.
Acute effects of estrogen upon methamphetamine induced neurotoxicity of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system

Estrogen acts as a neuroprotectant of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system when given chronically to female mice prior to Methamphetamine (MA) insult. In this report, we tested the acute effects of Estradiol Benzoate (EB-10 µg in Oil) in ovariectomized CD-1 mice to function as a neuroprotectant when administered prior to (Experiment 1) or after (Experiment 2) MA treatment. Striatal dopamine (DA) concentrations and DOPAC/DA ratios were measured to assess the neuroprotective effects of EB. In Experiment 1, we observed that EB exerted a neuroprotective effect upon striatal dopamine concentrations when administered at 24 and 12, but not at 0.5, hours prior to MA injection and upon DOPAC/DA ratios when administered at 24, 12 and 0.5 hours prior to MA. In Experiment 2, no evidence for estrogen to protect the striatum from MA insult was obtained when EB was administered at 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes after MA. These results show that EB can act as a modulator of MA-induced nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurotoxicity suggestive of a neuroprotectant, when administered within 0.5 hour of MA insult as assessed by measures of DOPAC/DA, but fails to prevent depletion of DA when given after MA insult. The data suggest that estrogen may exert this rapid neuroprotective effect through a non-genomic mechanism.
Item banks for alcohol use from the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS): use, consequences, and expectancies.

Abstract Background We report on the development and calibration of item banks for alcohol use, negative and positive consequences of alcohol use, and negative and positive expectancies regarding drinking as part of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®). Methods Comprehensive literature searches yielded an initial bank of more than 5000 items from over 200 instruments. After qualitative item analysis (including focus groups and cognitive interviewing), 141 items were included in field testing. Items for alcohol use and consequences were written in a first-person, past-tense format with a 30-day time frame and 5 response options reflecting frequency. Items for expectancies were written in a third-person, present-tense format with no time frame specified and 5 response options reflecting intensity. The calibration sample included 1407 respondents, 1000 from the general population (ascertained through an internet panel) and 407 from community treatment programs participating in the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Clinical Trials Network (CTN). Results Final banks of 37, 31, 20, 11, and 9 items (108 total items) were calibrated for alcohol use, negative consequences, positive consequences, negative expectancies, and positive expectancies, respectively, using item response theory (IRT). Seven-item static short forms were also developed from each item bank. Conclusions Test information curves showed that the PROMIS item banks provided substantial information in a broad range of severity, making them suitable for treatment, observational, and epidemiological research.
Cooperation of three lymphoid cells in allograft rejection

Abstract The lymphoid cell subpopulations mediating first set skin allograft rejection were studied in NZB/W and BALB/c mice. Recipient mice were deficient in skin allograft rejection by spontaneous loss of recirculating T cells and splenectomy (NZB/W) or corticosteroid pretreatment and splenectomy (BALB/c). Prompt primary allograft rejection could be restored in these immunologically deprived recipients by injection of syngeneic lymphoid cells. In each strain at least three different populations of lymphoid cells were required for prompt primary allograft rejection: two T cells and a B cell. These studies suggested that a recirculating T cell cooperates with a sessile splenic T cell as well as a B cell. The studies do not indicate in which population (s) specificity might reside.
Levels of three hydrolases in rheumatoid and regenerated synovium.

The levels of three hydrolases, β-glucuronidase, acid phosphatase, and cathepsin-D were measured in rheumatoid and regenerated synovium. Only cathepsin-D levels proved to be valuable as an index of inflammation. The levels found were: normal = 0.566 (μEq tyrosine/hr/mg protein); regenerated synovium = 0.667 ± 0.343; and rheumatoid synovium = 1.481 ± 0.487. The levels of cathepsin-D increased in the regenerated synovium in relation to the time after synovectomy, reaching the levels of rheumatoid synovium after 3½ years.
A comparison of morphine-perphenazine and midazolam on preoperative sedation and arterial oxygen saturation.

The effectiveness of midazolam and a mixture of morphineperphenazine premedicalion to produce sedation and their effects on preoperative oxygen saturation (SaO2) were examined. Eightyfive patients whose SaO2 measured with a pulse oximeter was > 90% and who were not receiving narcotic sedatives or oxygen were randomized to three groups. Each patient had his SaO2 recorded before premedication with placebo (saline), midazolam 0.08 mg · kg−1 or morphine 0.15 mg · kg−1 with perphenazine 2.5–5.0 mg im. From 30–90 min later, prior to anaesthesia SaC2 was repeated, and a sedation score was obtained by a blinded observer using a seven point scale. Median sedation scores were greater for midazolam (4) than for morphineperphenazine (2) and placebo (1) (P < 0.0001). As well, there was a decrease in the SaO2 in the morphineperphenazine group (1.7 ± 2.7%, P < 0.001) but not in the midazolam and placebo groups (0.1 ± 2.3%, – 0.8 ±2.1%). In conclusion midazolam produced greater sedation than morphineperphenazine and placebo without effect on SaO2 whereas morphineperphenazine showed a decrease in SaO2 preoperatively.
Wnt signaling induces differentiation of progenitor cells in organotypic keratinocyte cultures

Interfollicular skin develops normally only when the activity of the progenitor cells in the basal layer is counterbalanced by the exit of cells into the suprabasal layers, where they differentiate and cornify to establish barrier function. Distinct stem and progenitor compartments have been demonstrated in hair follicles and sebaceous glands, but there are few data to describe the control of interfollicular progenitor cell activity. Wnt signaling has been shown to be an important growth-inducer of stem cell compartments in skin and many other tissues. Here, we test the effect of ectopic Wnt1 expression on the behavior of interfollicular progenitor cells in an organotypic culture model, and find that Wnt1 signaling inhibits their growth and promotes terminal differentiation. These results are consistent with the phenotypes reported for transgenic mice engineered to have gain or loss of function of Wnt signaling in skin, which would recommend our culture model as an accurate one for molecular analysis. Since it is known that canonical ligands are expressed in skin, it is likely that this pathway normally regulates the balance of growth and differentiation, and suggests it could be important to pathogenesis.
Regulation of matrix Gla protein by parathyroid hormone in MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells involves protein kinase A and extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathways

Inhibition of osteoblast-mediated mineralization is one of the major catabolic effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on bone. Previously, we showed that PTH induces matrix g-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla) protein (MGP) expression and established that this induction is critical for PTH-mediated inhibition of osteoblast mineralization. In the presentstudy,wefocusonthemechanismthroughwhichPTHregulatesMGPexpressioninosteoblasticMC3T3-E1cells. Following transient transfection of these cells with a � 748 bp murine MGP promoter-luciferase construct (pMGP-luc), PTH (10 � 7 M) induced promoter activity in a time-dependent manner with a maximal four- to six fold induction seen 6 h after PTH treatment. Both H-89 (PKA inhibitor) and U0126 (MEK inhibitor), suppressed PTH induction of MGP promoter activity as well as the MGP mRNA level. In addition, forskolin (PKA activator) stimulated MGP promoter activity and mRNA levels confirming that PKA is one of the signaling molecules required for regulation of MGP by PTH. Co- transfection of MC3T3-E1 cells with pMGP-luc and MEK(SP), a plasmid encoding the constitutively active form of MEK, led to a dose-dependent increase in MGP promoter activity. Both MGP promoter activity and MGP mRNA level were not affected by the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, GF109203X. However, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a selectivePKCactivatorinducedMGPmRNAexpressionthroughactivationofextracellularsignal-regulatedkinase(ERK). Taken together, these results indicate that PTH regulates MGP via both PKA- and ERK-dependent pathways. J. Cell.
Quantitative IR spectrum and vibrational assignments for glycolaldehyde vapor: glycolaldehyde measurements in biomass burning plumes.

Glycolaldehyde (GA, 2-hydroxyethanal, C2H4O2) is a semivolatile molecule of atmospheric importance, recently proposed as a precursor in the formation of aqueous-phase secondary organic aerosol (SOA). There are few methods to measure GA vapor, but infrared spectroscopy has been used successfully. Using vetted protocols we have completed the first assignment of all fundamental vibrational modes and also derived quantitative IR absorption band strengths using both neat and pressure-broadened GA vapor. Even though GA is problematic due to its propensity to both dimerize and condense, our intensities agree well with the few previously published values. Using the ν10 band Q-branch at 860.51 cm–1, we have also determined GA mixing ratios in biomass burning plumes generated by field and laboratory burns of fuels from the southeastern and southwestern United States, including the first IR field measurements of GA in smoke. The GA emission factors were anti-correlated with modified combustion efficiency confirming ...
Using several modalities to perceive one temporal pattern.

In two experiments, subjects identified temporal patterns. The patterns consisted of eight dichotomous (left-right) elements, e.g. LLRRLRLR, continuously repeated until the subject was able to iden...
J. Cosmet. Sci., 58, 629–636 (November/December 2007) Hair breakage during combing. IV. Brushing and combing hair

Accepted for publication June 26, 2007 Synopsis During combing of hair, longer fiber breaks (>2.5 cm) occur principally by impact loading of looped crossover hairs, while short segment breaks (<2.5 cm) occur primarily by end wrapping. Brushing provides breakage similarly but with a higher ratio of long-to-short segment breaks, and the ratio of long-to-short segment breaks (L/S) is a good way to follow these two pathways of breakage under different conditions. For example, bleaching hair, a longer comb stroke, increasing fiber curvature, wet combing versus dry combing, and brushing versus combing all provide for an increase in long segment breaks and this ratio, with the largest effect produced by brushing.
Countering the Broadleaf Invasion: Financial and Carbon Consequences of Removing Hardwoods during Longleaf Pine Savanna Restoration

The once widespread Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris)– dominated ecosystems of the southeastern coastal plain of the United States have been greatly reduced in extent, and many of the remaining stands are being degraded by hardwood invasion due to fire suppression. The first step toward pine savanna restoration is often hardwood removal, a costly process due to their large volumes and low market values. Despite these problems, by marketing a wide range of hard- and softwood products, the costs of 13 restoration projects in northern Florida were substantially reduced. Ten different products were sold to 19 different buyers. Fuel chips represented 71–100% of all biomass removed (8.2–81.1 Mg/ha). Although landowners were charged modest amounts for removing biomass harvested as fuel chips, other marketed products yielded revenues. Overall, four projects earned net profits of $29–$383/ha, and four projects generated sufficient revenue to pay 17–99% of the cost of hardwood removal as fuel chips. A carbon accounting of a second set of projects demonstrated that carbon harvested as fuel chips far exceeded that consumed in harvest and transport, yielding net carbon offsets of 451–1,320 Mg C/project (3.3–13.9 Mg C/ha). Using fuel consumption results of this second set of projects, carbon offsets for the 13 restoration projects were estimated as 89–1,524 Mg (3.8–37.9 Mg C/ha). Restorationists should monitor traditional forest product markets as well as developing carbon markets for price fluctuations that could provide significant revenues to restoration projects.
The Myth of 1926: How Much Do We Know About Long-Term Returns on U.S. Stocks?

Investors are often told that the long-term return on U.S. stocks is a known quantity. Few realize that virtually all such statements are based on a data set that begins in 1926, and that because stock trading in the United States is much older, this dataset excludes more than half the total trading record. Even post-1926, certain types of stocks were systematically excluded, up until very recently. This article chronicles the biases and limitations of the post-1926 CRSP-Ibbotson dataset, and explains how these biases limit what is presently known about long-term returns on U.S. stocks.
Nonlinear rotorcraft analysis using symbolic manipulation

Abstract Analyzing a system of nonlinear equations for the presence of limit cycles is often a tedious and time-consuming proposition, even for relatively simple systems. The large amount of algebraic manipulation required is extremely difficult to perform accurately, and can quickly degenerate into an intractable problem. This paper presents the development of a mathematical model for a helicopter lwith nonlinear damping in its landing gear. The use of symbolic manipulation in the derivation of the complex set of equations is stressed. The resulting equations represent an important extension to the type of nonlinear equations that have previously been analyzed, and allow a more accurate calculation of the system's response. the techniques used are described in detail and are applicable to the study of generic rotating systems.