cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Binding characteristics of kappa opioids in rat brain. A comparison of in vitro binding paradigms.

Putative kappa binding was investigated in homogenates of the brain of the rat using [3H]ethylketocylazocine and [3H]diprenorphine under conditions where mu and delta sites were blocked. Under blocked conditions, the binding of [3H]ethylketocyclazocine labelled a single site, as defined by kinetic and equilibrium analysis, which showed high affinity for dynorphin 1–17, U50,488H, and benzomorphan compounds. However, blocked binding of [3H]diprenorphine showed a biphasic dissociation curve, and did not show high affinity for the specific kappa agonists dynorphin 1–17 or U50.488H. It is proposed that blocked [3H]ethylketocyclazocine is the more appropriate paradigm to study putative kappa binding, while blocked [3H]diprenorphine may label additional non-mu/non-delta sites.
Perceived Continuing Education Needs of Licensed Clinical Social Workers.

Abstract Although recent studies have explored various aspects of licensed practice in social work, there is little information about the current continuing education activities and needs of professionals involved in such practice. This paper describes a 1992 survey of a random sample of 421 licensed clinical social workers in Virginia to assess their perceived educational needs. Overall, practice theories and practitioner roles were most often identified as areas in which training is needed. Private practitioners wished for training in object relations theory more often—and training in supervision and cognitive theory less often—than their agency-based colleagues. The implications of these findings for continuing social work education and for the profession are discussed.
The Separation of Powers, Court Curbing, and Judicial Legitimacy Erratum

In “The Separation of Powers, Court Curbing, and Judicial Legitimacy” (American Journal of Political Science 53 (4): 971-89 (2009)), there is a slight error in the proof of Proposition 3. Specifically, Congress’s (C ’s) payoff from deviating to a pure strategy, !(! = L ) = h should be given by (1 − m)bc − mbc − e. C ’s strategy from playing a pure strategy !(! = L ) = l is given by e − bc . Thus, the mixing probability that makes C indifferent between playing!(! = H) = l and!(! = H) = h is m = bc−e bc . This probability holds for all bc > e. Thus, the equilibrium characterized in Proposition 3 exists for all bc > e. Note that this correction does not affect the substantive interpretation of the model or the empirical implications derived. In the article, analysis was constrained to the case where bc 2e, it was asserted there exists a pooling equilibrium in which the Court never makes a constrained decision upon observing Court curbing. The comparative static derived was that as bc increases—as the Court and Congress become more ideologically divergent—the Court should be less likely to make a constrained decision upon observing Court curbing. The algebraic correction reveals that the semi separating equilibrium holds for all b > e, and the restriction that bc < 2e is not necessary. However, the probability with which the Court makes an unconstrained decision upon observing Court curbing (! = h), m = bc−e bc , is increasing in bc . Thus, the prediction that judicial restraint in response to Court curbing should decrease as Congress becomes more ideologically divergent from the Court continues to hold.
Habitat type and distance to edge affect movement behavior of juvenile pond-breeding salamanders

Behavioral strategies of natal dispersers in response to human-altered habitat have far-reaching implications for functional connectivity and local population dynamics. Spotted salamanders Ambystoma maculatum are forest-dependent, pondbreeding amphibians which metamorphose and disperse out of aquatic habitat with limited knowledge of the terrestrial habitat. We quantified the fine-scale movement behavior and search strategies of recently metamorphosed spotted salamanders in three different habitat types (field, early successional forest and forest) and at varying distances from both hard (field and forest) and soft (early successional forest and forest) edges using fluorescent powder tracking. We found that salamanders moved straighter and with fewer turns through field habitat compared with both forest and early successional habitat. Salamanders significantly oriented movement toward forest when released in the field and when released on the edge between the forest and field. We found that salamander movement in the forest and early successional forest was approximated by a correlated random walk. Based on these results, dispersing spotted salamanders exhibit strong edge-mediated behavior when differences between habitats are stark (forest and field) and can perceive forest habitat from distances of at least 10 m. These results indicate that dispersing juvenile salamanders exhibit reasonable behavioral rules when moving through habitat types of differing quality. Knowledge of these behavioral rules will improve predictions of the effects of habitat type and configuration on amphibian survival and dispersion in altered landscapes.
Emergence of tool use in an articulated limb controlled by evolved neural circuits

Tool use requires high levels of cognitive function and is only observed in higher mammals and some avian species such as corvids. In this paper, we will investigate how the capability to use tools can spontaneously emerge in a simulated evolution of a two degree-of-freedom articulated limb. The controller for the limb was evolved as neural circuits that can gradually take on arbitrary topologies (NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies, or NEAT). First, we show how very broad fitness criteria such as distance to the target, number of steps to reach the target, and tool pick-up frequency are enough to give rise to tool using behavior. Second, we analyze the evolved neural circuits to find properties that enable tool use. We expect our results to help us understand the origin of tool use and the kind of neural circuits that enabled such a powerful trait.
Sensitivity studies for main steam line break exercises 2 and 3 with RELAP5/PANBOX

This paper presents and discusses results obtained with the nuclear plant safety analysis code system RELAP5/PANBOX (R/P/C) for the return-to-power scenario of exercises 2 and 3 of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development/Nuclear Energy Agency Main Steam Line Break (MSLB) Benchmark. Both the external and internal coupling options of R/P/C have been considered for exercise 3; i.e., the COBRA module of PANBOX was used to calculate the core thermal hydraulics in the external coupling option, whereas the core thermal hydraulics of RELAP5 was used in the internal coupling option. For the representation of thermalhydraulic channels, a fine channel geometry based on the 177 fuel assemblies was selected for the external coupling option, and a coarse channel geometry based on 19 coarse channels has been investigated for the internal coupling option. The comparison of the results shows very good agreement of important core parameters between the considered coupling variants. Both exercises 2 and 3 have been investigated with respect to local safety parameters like fuel centerline temperatures and minimum departure from nucleate boiling ratios using the on-line hot subchannel analysis capability of R/P/C in the external coupling option. The results show that both quantities are far from the safety-related limits. The benchmark demonstrates, that R/P/C-as part of the integrated CASCADE-3D core analysis system of Framatome ANP GmbH-has proven to be a powerful tool for detailed analyses of an MSLB accident.
Dreaming the country and burning the land

Human relationships with the world are deeply affected by the images used to understand and express our place in nature. Ecologically, art and symbolic modelling demonstrate an ordering of information about the world. They are bio-cultural artefacts necessary to ordering human socio-cultural life, and while our regard for art may be predicated on aesthetics, our need for art is biological. The biological imperative of symbolic modelling has not, however, been adequately analysed. Rock-art documents vast environmental knowledge of indigenous and local peoples. A people's ecological knowledge affects its subsistence and adaptation, is relevant to interpreting rock-art, and relates to broader issues of contemporary environmental predicaments. Recent work in this area suggests the value of traditional ecological knowledge in addressing socio-ecological problems, and sheds light on diverse ontologies of knowledge. Ethnoecology has importance in an increasingly interconnected world, and illuminates human encoun...
Determinants and implications of mRNA poly(A) tail size--does this protein make my tail look big?

While the phenomenon of polyadenylation has been well-studied, the dynamics of poly(A) tail size and its impact on transcript function and cell biology are less well-appreciated. The goal of this review is to encourage readers to view the poly(A) tail as a dynamic, changeable aspect of a transcript rather than a simple static entity that marks the 3′ end of an mRNA. This could open up new angles of regulation in the post-transcriptional control of gene expression throughout development, differentiation and cancer.
Smectic Liquid Crystal Monolayers on Graphite Observed by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy

By means of scanning tunneling microscopy, it is observed that molecules of the form n-alkylcyanobiphenyl, where n = 8 to 12, form two-dimensional crystalline domains when adsorbed onto graphite. The layer spacings measured by tunneling microscopy are 20% larger than those measured previously on bulk material by x-ray diffraction. The structure of the adsorbed molecules is quite different from that of the bulk.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE WAIS TO THE SRA NON-VERBAL TEST SCORES

In the present study a short, self-administered intelligence test (SRA Non-verbal Test, Form AH) was correlated with the WAIS for an unselected sample of 29 mothers on the Providence Child Development Study. The correlation of .81 is significant and similar to the r of .82 between the WAIS Verbal Scale and the WAIS Performance Scale. It is concluded that the 10-min. SRA Non-verbal Test is a satisfactory and valid intelligence test instrument when dealing with specific groups of Ss but that WAIS IQ category labels should not be applied indiscriminately to SRA IQs.
On the design of piezoelectric sensors and actuators

Abstract Piezoelectric devices are becoming more common with the introduction of smart sensors and actuators, and new developments in piezoelectric polymers and ceramics. However, as the authors found, obtaining relevant information for a comprehensive design of piezoelectric sensors and actuators is quite an ordeal. The literature on piezoelectricity is mainly divided on oversimplified explanations based on quartz crystals or on journals and books requiring an extensive background in solid state physics. This paper provides a non-trivial description of piezoelectricity from the perspective of sensor/actuator design. Contributions include: (a) using a simple matrix approach to (i) clearly describe the piezoelectric relationships, and (ii) clearly show how to manipulate the boundary conditions to experimentally obtain the constitutive parameters; (b) showing how the coefficients in the transfer function of a pressure sensor vary as the mode of operation change from isothermal to adiabatic by defining effective capacitances, permitivity, piezoelectric, and compliance constants; (c) showing that the wave equation is a natural result of introducing a kinetic energy term into the energy balance.
Allozymes and mitochondrial DNA discriminate Asian and north American populations of chum salmon in mixed-stock fisheries along the south coast of the Alaska peninsula

Abstract A representative baseline of allozyme allele frequencies of 69 stock groupings covering the entire range of chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta was evaluated for its ability to estimate stock of origin of Asian and North American chum salmon in complex mixtures. We estimated the origin of 2,000 chum salmon harvested incidentally in fisheries for sockeye salmon O. nerka along the south side of the Alaska Peninsula in the northern Pacific Ocean in 1993 and 1994 using a maximum likelihood algorithm. Of eight major regions (Japan, Russia, northwest Alaska summer run, Yukon River fall run, Alaska Peninsula–Kodiak Island, southeast Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington) reported, northwest Alaska summer-run populations predominated in the fishery with estimates ranging from 0.52 to 0.72. A mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) marker capable of distinguishing the Japanese component from the rest of the Pacific Rim stocks was assayed in 400 of the 1994 samples. Estimates from the allozyme and mtDNA data were similar. ...
Photoluminescence of zirconium hydroxide: Origin of a chemisorption-induced ‘red-stretch'

Abstract Zirconium hydroxide particles are reactive and photoluminescent, emitting blue light under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Adsorption-induced changes in the photoluminescence (PL) offer opportunities for gas sensor/filtration applications. The PL of Zr(OH)4 is quenched in the presence of molecular oxygen, likely through trapping of surface electrons via the formation of O 2 - . Heating the powder high enough to desorb hydroxyl groups broadens the PL spectrum toward longer wavelengths. This ‘red-stretch’ also occurs upon reaction with sulfur dioxide, which replaces terminal hydroxyl groups with sulfite ones. Excessive UV irradiation correspondingly induces this effect. A mechanism is proposed to account for the red-stretch.
SPECIATION IN VANADIUM BIOINORGANIC SYSTEMS. 5. INTERACTIONS BETWEEN VANADATE, URIDINE, AND IMIDAZOLE-AN AQUEOUS POTENTIOMETRIC, 51V, 17O, AND 13C NMR STUDY

The full speciation has been determined in the aqueous vanadate−uridine (UrH2) and vanadate−uridine−imidazole (ImH) systems. The studies performed allow direct comparison with the corresponding adenosine systems, and the role of the pyrimidine and purine bases on various complex properties could be evaluated. The studies also provide insight into possible biological mechanism of action. Formation constants have been determined in 0.600 M Na(Cl) medium at 25 °C in the pH range 2−11, using a combination of potentiometry and 51V NMR spectroscopy. In the H+−H2VO4-−UrH2 system, two dimeric complexes form: V2Ur22- with log β = 7.66 ± 0.02 and V2Ur23- with log β = −1.09 ± 0.04. The errors given are 3σ. Both species give rise to NMR resonances at −523 ppm. A minor 51V NMR resonance at −507 ppm is probably originating from a VUr2- species. No evidence was found for a 1:1 species at −523 ppm or a 1:1 species with 51V NMR shift superimposed on the vanadate monomer. In the H+−H2VO4-−UrH2−ImH system, two monomeric, m...
A Comparative Analysis of 7.0-Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Histology Measurements of Knee Articular Cartilage in a Canine Posterolateral Knee Injury Model: A Preliminary Analysis

BackgroundThere has recently been increased interest in the use of 7.0-T magnetic resonance imaging for evaluating articular cartilage degeneration and quantifying the progression of osteoarthritis.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate articular cartilage cross-sectional area and maximum thickness in the medial compartment of intact and destabilized canine knees using 7.0-T magnetic resonance images and compare these results with those obtained from the corresponding histologic sections.Study DesignControlled laboratory study.MethodsFive canines had a surgically created unilateral grade III posterolateral knee injury that was followed for 6 months before euthanasia. The opposite, noninjured knee was used as a control. At necropsy, 3-dimensional gradient echo images of the medial tibial plateau of both knees were obtained using a 7.0-T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. Articular cartilage area and maximum thickness in this site were digitally measured on the magnetic resonance images. The prox...
An analysis of shock therapy in schizophrenia on the basis of a nitrogen inhalation control series

1. In 62 cases of schizophrenia unsuccessfully treated with nitrogen inhalation there was a 52 per cent improvement with insulin and metrazol therapies. 2. Utilizing the nitrogen anoxemia period as a control, it would seem that special attention, fear of death, satisfaction of the need to be punished, transient depression of brain metabolism, gross stimulation of the autonomic nervous system, unconsciousness, and subcortical motor phenomena are not influential in the therapeutic results of insulin and metrazol shock therapies. 3. It is suggested that further refinements of therapeutic measures be focused on improving methods for effecting the integration of consciousness with motility, preception and ideation.
Socioeconomic Status And Readmissions: Evidence From An Urban Teaching Hospital

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program has focused attention on ways to reduce thirty-day readmissions and on factors affecting readmission ris...
A note on "further sufficient conditions for an inverse relationship between productivity and employment"

Abstract The preceding paper in this Review discusses certain sufficiency conditions shown by Firoozi (1994) and presents an extension. This note shows that the preceding paper is a reflection of the generality carried by Firoozi’s setting and results.
A Contribution to the Military Revolution Debate: The Janissaries Use of Volley Fire during the Long Ottoman-Habsburg WaroOf 1593-1606 and the Problem of Origins

According to proponents of the “Military Revolution” theory, musketry volley fire was among the military innovations that fundamentally altered early modern field warfare. The origins of European volley fire date back to the 1590s, but no western army, with the possible exception of the Dutch in 1600, was able to use this tactic in action until the 1620s. Furthermore, it has been thus far assumed that the Ottomans failed to adopt this new tactic and thus experienced setbacks in the face of their European adversaries during this period. By utilising hitherto overlooked Ottoman narrative and visual sources, this article first shows that the Janissaries were indeed using volley fire in action in 1605, and possibly before. Secondly, it raises questions about the origins of Ottoman volley fire, which are currently unclear. Overall, the Janissaries' use of this tactic during the Long War not only affects our understanding of Ottoman warfare but also necessitates a reassessment of the patterns of invention and diffusion of military innovations in the early modern period.
Kawasaki Disease: Do We Need a New Case Definition?

Misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis of Kawasaki disease (KD) is a problem in the United States (U.S.). To learn about current practice in diagnosing KD, we conducted a questionnaire survey of general pediatricians in San Diego County and U.S. members of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society. Responses were obtained from 132/227 (58.1%) generalists and 345/651 (53.0%) subspecialists. Half of the general pediatricians and 90% of the pediatric subspecialists reported having made the diagnosis of KD in febrile patients (pts) who did not fulfill 4/5 clinical criteria. When asked about clinical criteria that trigger consideration of KD, generalists and subspecialists listed fever, rash, and conjunctival injection as the top three clinical signs. Cervical lymphadenopathy was considered an important criterion by the generalists (69/131, 52.7%) but not by the subspecialists (34/334, 10.2%). Despite the well-documented occurrence of KD throughout the pediatric age group, 71/124 (57.3%) generalists and 86/325 (26.5%) subspecialists did not consider the diagnosis in pts 8 yrs. Laboratory studies reported to be most helpful in establishing the diagnosis of KD were (generalists;subspecialists): erythrocyte sedimentation rate (68.2%;74.2%), complete blood count (58.1%;40.0%), platelet count (51.9%;32.1%), urinalysis (46.5%;41.2%), and echocardiogram (45.0%;52.1%). Education about KD in the U.S. must emphasize that this disease can occur across the entire pediatric age range. Physicians have found the case definition to be overly specific and inadequately sensitive in establishing the diagnosis of KD. Formulation of a new case definition for improved sensitivity in early detection of KD cases may be warranted.
Drug Benefit Changes Under Medicare Advantage Part D: Heterogeneous Effects on Pharmaceutical Use and Expenditures

Background Although Medicare Part D improved drug benefits for many beneficiaries, its impact on the coverage of Medicare Advantage Part D (MAPD) enrollees depended on their pre-existing benefits and whether they had gap coverage under Part D.
The Effect of the Dependent Position upon Blood Flow in the Limbs

The blood flow, as reflected by the arteriovenous oxygen difference, in the arms and legs is greater in the dependent position than in the horizontal position. The physiologic and clinical significance of this finding is discussed.
Crystallization and preliminary analysis of active nitroalkane oxidase in three crystal forms

Nitroalkane oxidase (NAO), a flavoprotein cloned and purified from Fusarium oxysporum, catalyzes the oxidation of neutral nitroalkanes to the corresponding aldehydes or ketones, with the production of H2O2 and nitrite. In this paper, the crystallization and preliminary X-­ray data analysis of three crystal forms of active nitroalkane oxidase are described. The first crystal form belongs to a trigonal space group (either P3121 or P3221, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 103.8, c = 487.0 A) and diffracts to at least 1.6 A resolution. Several data sets were collected using 2θ and κ geometry in order to obtain a complete data set to 2.07 A resolution. Solvent-content and Matthews coefficient analysis suggests that crystal form 1 contains two homotetramers per asymmetric unit. Crystal form 2 (P212121; a = 147.3, b = 153.5, c = 169.5 A) and crystal form 3 (P31 or P32; a = b = 108.9, c = 342.5 A) are obtained from slightly different conditions and also contain two homotetramers per asymmetric unit, but have different solvent contents. A three-wavelength MAD data set was collected from selenomethionine-enriched NAO (SeMet-NAO) in crystal form 3 and will be used for phasing.
Optical and thermal properties of photochromic fluorinated adamantylidene indolylfulgides

Abstract Fluorinated indolylfulgides are a class of photochromic organic compounds with potential applications in the areas of optical memory and optical switches. Absorption spectra, quantum yields, and thermal stability have been measured for a series of fluorinated adamantylidene indolylfulgides. The cyclizable form of the trifluoromethyl-substituted 5-methoxy-1,2-dimethylindolylfulgide displays the longest absorbance maxima reported for the fulgide family. The thermal stability of the cyclizable form of the fluorinated adamantylidene indolylfulgides was greater than that of their corresponding fluorinated isopropylidene analogs, as expected based upon the mechanism of decomposition for isopropylidene analogs. The pentafluoroethyl-substituted adamantylidene indolylfulgide showed only a 27% loss in absorbance after 5 weeks at 80 °C in a poly(methylmethacrylate) film. These studies have highlighted the rational design of a thermally stable cyclizable form for fluorinated indolylfulgides.
The origins of reciprocity and social exchange in friendships.

At birth, infants have no interest in other infants or capacity for interactionwith them. Yet within the ﬁrst two years of life, they come to engage in coor-dinated activity as well as reciprocal relationships with other youngsters.Positive overtures are given and received, negative (agonistic) overtures arealso reciprocated, and certain partners come to be preferred over others—usu-ally those with whom reciprocal social interaction has occurred previously.Coordinated social interactions and partner playmate preferences are gradu-ally evinced across infancy and toddlerhood, accelerating in sophisticationduring the second year (Brownell, 1990; Howes, 1983). Speciﬁc social provi-sions are attached to them during the preschool years (Gleason, 1999), andeventually, a complex and nuanced meaning system encompasses children’sexpectations about friends and friendship (Bigelow and LaGaipa, 1975).In this chapter, we continue efforts to conceptualize the meaning struc-tures that children use in social relations with other children, especially inclose relationships with one another. We aim to describe better children’sknowledge about friendship relations and how that knowledge changes withage, and then consider the ways these changes map onto changes in thesocial exchanges that children actually have with their friends.Our argument builds on the thesis that developmental changes infriendship relations can best be understood using a deep-structure level ofanalysis (the social meaning or essence of a relationship) and a surface-structure level of analysis (the behaviors involved in social exchanges in
Transforming Growth Factor-β Differentially Inhibits MyD88-dependent, but Not TRAM- and TRIF-dependent, Lipopolysaccharide-induced TLR4 Signaling

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a multifunctional, potent anti-inflammatory cytokine produced by many cell types that regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immune responses. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize various pathogen-associated molecular patterns and are therefore a pivotal component of the innate immune system. In this study we show that TGF-β1 blocks the NF-κB activation and cytokine release that is stimulated by ligands for TLRs 2, 4, and 5. We further show that TGF-β1 can specifically interfere with TLR2, -4, or -5 ligand-induced responses involving the adaptor molecule MyD88 (myeloid differentiation factor 88) but not the TRAM/TRIF signaling pathway by decreasing MyD88 protein levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner without altering its mRNA expression. The proteasome inhibitor epoxomicin abolished the MyD88 degradation induced by TGF-β1. Furthermore, TGF-β1 resulted in ubiquitination of MyD88 protein, suggesting that TGF-β1 facilitates ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of MyD88 and thereby attenuates MyD88-dependent signaling by decreasing cellular levels of MyD88 protein. These findings importantly contribute to our understanding of molecular mechanisms mediating anti-inflammatory modulation of immune responses by TGF-β1.
Synthesis and molecular structure of the polar, binuclear complex, monochlorotetra-(6-fluoro-2-oxopyridine)diruthenium(II,III)

Abstract The dark purple title compound was prepared by reaction of Ru2Cl(O2CCH3)4 with molten 6-fluoro-2-hydroxypyrine (Hfhp) in quantitative yield. Crystals of composition Ru2Cl(fhp)4 were obtained by slow diffusion of hexane into a CH2Cl2 solution of the compound. The crystals belong to the tetragonal space group I4mm with the following unit-cell dimensions: a = b = 10.890(2) A, c = 13.178(4) A, α = β = γ = 90.0°, V = 1562.8(6) A3, and Z = 2. The Ru2Cl(fhp)4 molecule, which has crystallographic 4mm (C4c) symmetry, contains a diruthenium(II,III) unit with a metalmetal bond order of 2.5. The four bridging fhp ligands across the Ru2 unit are oriented in one direction to form a polar molecule. The coordinatioin spheres of the two ruthenium atoms [Ru(1) and Ru(2)] are Ru(2)N(I)4 and Ru(1)Cl(1)O(1)4, respectively. The axial site on Ru(1) is blocked by four F(1) atoms. The Ru(1)Ru(2), Ru(2)Cl(1), Ru(2)O(1) and Ru(1)N(1) distances are 2.284(1), 2.427(3), 1.971(2) and 2.089(4) A, respectively. The electronic spectrum of the compound in CH2Cl2 shows two strong bands at 552 nm (e = 4720 M−1 cm−1) and 355 nm e = 3770 M−1 cm−1). Cyclic voltammetry of Ru2Cl(fhp)4 in CH2Cl2 in the presence of 0.1 M [N(C2H5)4]ClO4 at 100 mV s−1 shows two quasireversible metal-centered one-electron oxication and reduction processes at +1.68 (ΔEp = 120 mV) and −0.01 V (ΔEp = 126 mV), respectively, vs an AgAgCl reference electrode.
Prescription drug coverage, health, and medication acquisition among seniors with one or more chronic conditions

Background:The unabated rise in medication costs particularly affects older persons with chronic conditions that require long-term medication use, but how prescription benefits affect medication adherence for such persons has received limited study.Objective:We sought to study the relationship among
Theoretical analysis of the NMR and electronic structure of novel Δ8-THC derivatives

Abstract Several novel classical cannabinoids have been studied using a combination of density functional theory and semi-empirical calculations. Potential energy surfaces for each of these novel compounds were calculated using the PM3 semi-empirical Hamiltonian and show a wide range of conformational freedom for all the compounds in the study. The electronic structure for each of these derivatives has been studied using B3LYP/6-31G( p,d ) calculations. Effects of the electronic structure on NMR experiments have been analyzed and clearly demonstrate that an understanding of these molecules requires a detailed description of the electronic structure. Additionally, we show that there is significant potential for these compounds to exhibit fluorescence, making them possible candidates for probing receptor sites in vivo.
Microwave Elution of Red Cell Antibodies

Using a commercial microwave oven (750 W, 2,450 MHz), we compared the use of microwave energy to the commonly used method of acid-glycine elution (Elu-Kit II, Gamma Biologicals, Houston, Tex., USA) to elute antibodies from direct antiglobulin test positive red blood cells (RBC). Using a 33% suspension of RBCs in cold saline (1-6 degrees C) in a polypropylene test tube, the microwave technique was comparable for eluting Rh (except anti-c and anti-e) and Kell and superior for eluting Duffy, Kidd antibodies while acid-glycine was superior in eluting S and s antibodies. Consistent results were obtained using the microwave technique when the RBC suspension reached temperature of 57-64 degrees C. Heat or the rate of temperature rise appears to play an important role in the microwave elution process although other not yet identified microwave properties may also be a factor. Microwaves are a quick (8 s) alternative to well-established methods of elution and have shown to give consistent results in our study. Commercially available microwave ovens vary substantially in power, making it necessary to perform an initial calibration of the microwave in order to determine a location within the microwave cavity where exposure to microwaves will consistently achieve temperatures of 57-64 degrees C in all cell suspensions.
A survey of microsystem electronics

The history of microsystem electronics is briefly traced through the successive stages of: miniaturization; subminiaturization; microminiaturization; thin-film integrated circuits; semiconductor integrated circuits; and finally morphological integrated circuits or functional blocks. The term integrated circuit is defined as the combination, on or within a single chunk of material, of multiple electrical elements to perform a desired circuit or systems function. Improvement in reliability, decrease in size and weight, decreased power consumption, and lower cost are discussed as motivations for Integrated Circuitry. Fabrication techniques, interconnection, and accessibility are identified as major problems. A catalogue of techniques for fabrication of Integrated Circuitry is presented.
Role of control and system theory in economics

It is argued that the interests of control and system theorists can be divided into two sets: the technical interests labeled Control Theory and the "System" interests called Cybernetics. It is suggested that unique contributions to economics can only come from Cybernetics.
On looking inward and being scientific: A tribute to Arthur H. Schmale, MD.

Paradoxically, Schmale’s greatest contribution remains hardly known even to his admirers. That has been his challenge to the tradition disallowing introspection and dialogue as scientific instrumentalities. There can be no more appropriate tribute to Schmale at 65 than to call attention to how he has gone about refining everyday observation, introspection, and dialogue for scientific use. In so doing he reestablishes the ancient triad introspection-observation-dialogue as the basic scientific method of clinical study.
A microwave system for gyrotron processing of materials

Summary form only given, as follows. Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences have transferred gyrotron material-processing technology from the Paton Welding Institute in Kiev, Ukraine. This technology utilizes 35 kW, quasi-optical, continuous-wave gyrotron radiation at 37 GHz and 84 GHz. The technology is now being investigated to determine if it provides an economic advantage for various manufacturing applications. These applications include, but are not limited to, hardening of polymers, joining of ceramics, leadless soldering, application of coatings, and sintering of ceramics. The gyrotrons for the material processing contain an internal reflector and launch that provide a coherent, quasi-optical beam of energy that can be transported by means of quasi-optical techniques and deposited on a target in the form of a very small beam of energy, a thin-line source of energy, or a rastered beam of energy. In some instances, such as the joining of ceramics, this technique appears to offer ground-breaking solutions to material-processing problems. This presentation will provide an overview of the gyrotron material-processing facility at Los Alamos.
Prevalence of Sexually Abusive Experiences in Childhood and Adolescence Among a Community Sample of Latinas: A Descriptive Study

This study examined the prevalence, severity, and circumstances of self-reported sexually coercive and abusive experiences in childhood and adolescence in a community sample of Latina women (N = 204) ages 18 to 34 years. Results from structured phone interviews indicated that 35% of the women reported experiencing some form of sexual abuse, 31% of the reported perpetrators were family members, and 52% were boyfriends, friends, or acquaintances. Of those who reported an abusive experience, 44% had not disclosed the abuse to anyone; for those who did disclose, 74% reported feeling supported. Findings highlight the importance of including peer and dating-partner abuse in the assessment of CSA and the necessity for outreach to Latina women who may have never disclosed their experiences of abuse.
The efficacy and safety of insulin-sensitizing drugs in HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome: a meta-analysis of randomized trials

HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HALS) is characterized by insulin resistance, abnormal lipid metabolism and redistribution of body fat. To date, there has been no quantitative summary of the effects of insulin sensitizing-agents for the treatment of this challenging problem. We searched MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, clinical trial registries, conference proceedings and references for randomized trials evaluating rosiglitazone, pioglitazone or metformin in patients with evidence of HALS (last update December 2009). Two reviewers independently abstracted data and assessed quality using a standard form. We contacted authors for missing data and calculated weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each outcome. Sixteen trials involving 920 patients met inclusion criteria. Rosiglitazone modestly improved fasting insulin (WMD -3.67 mU/L; CI -7.03, -0.31) but worsened triglycerides (WMD 32.5 mg/dL; CI 1.93, 63.1), LDL (WMD 11.33 mg/dL; CI 1.85, 20.82) and HDL (WMD -2.91 mg/dL; CI -4.56, -1.26) when compared to placebo or no treatment in seven trials. Conversely, pioglitazone had no impact on fasting insulin, triglycerides or LDL but improved HDL (WMD 7.60 mg/dL; CI 0.20, 15.0) when compared to placebo in two trials. Neither drug favorably impacted measures of fat redistribution. Based on six trials with placebo or no treatment controls, metformin reduced fasting insulin (WMD -8.94 mU/L; CI -13.0, -4.90), triglycerides (WMD -42.87 mg/dL; CI -73.3, -12.5), body mass index (WMD -0.70 kg/m2; CI -1.09, -0.31) and waist-to-hip ratio (WMD -0.02; CI -0.03, 0.00). Three trials directly compared metformin to rosiglitazone. While effects on insulin were comparable, lipid levels and measures of fat redistribution all favored metformin. Severe adverse events were uncommon in all 16 trials. Based on our meta-analysis, rosiglitazone should not be used in HALS. While pioglitazone may be safer, any benefits appear small. Metformin was the only insulin-sensitizer to demonstrate beneficial effects on all three components of HALS.
Constitutive Activation of the Shaker Kv Channel

In different types of K+ channels the primary activation gate is thought to reside near the intracellular entrance to the ion conduction pore. In the Shaker Kv channel the gate is closed at negative membrane voltages, but can be opened with membrane depolarization. In a previous study of the S6 activation gate in Shaker (Hackos, D.H., T.H. Chang, and K.J. Swartz. 2002. J. Gen. Physiol. 119:521–532.), we found that mutation of Pro 475 to Asp results in a channel that displays a large macroscopic conductance at negative membrane voltages, with only small increases in conductance with membrane depolarization. In the present study we explore the mechanism underlying this constitutively conducting phenotype using both macroscopic and single-channel recordings, and probes that interact with the voltage sensors or the intracellular entrance to the ion conduction pore. Our results suggest that constitutive conduction results from a dramatic perturbation of the closed-open equilibrium, enabling opening of the activation gate without voltage-sensor activation. This mechanism is discussed in the context of allosteric models for activation of Kv channels and what is known about the structure of this critical region in K+ channels.
Growth, sudden enhancement, and relaxation of current sheets in the magnetotail: Two‐dimensional substorm dynamics

A two-dimensional, low-dissipation magnetohydrodynamic simulation is used as a model for magnetospheric substorm dynamics. The simulation begins from a Grad-Shafranov equilibrium of the magnetotail including the Earth's dipole field. This initial configuration is driven by a continuous electric field (of IMF origin) which induces equatorward flows. A thin current sheet develops algebraically in time, spanning Y-points that stretch from the mid-tail region (∼30 RE) to the near-Earth region (∼10 RE). In the late growth phase, rapid thinning of the sheet and near-explosive intensification of the current density are observed. The onset of a partial current disruption results from the formation of small islands in the near-Earth region. Numerical results are compared with observations.
Recent developments in single product, discrete-time, capacitated production-inventory systems

We present here some recent results in single-product, capacitated production-inventory systems in discrete time. The key results are: (1) structure of optimal policy for single stage systems; (2) analysing via a shortfall process; (3) using simulation to optimize; (4) an approximation using tail probabilities. We consider periodic demand, and multiple stages — serial, distribution and assembly. Related topics of re-entrant flow shops, lead time quotation and value of information are also discussed briefly.
The effect of anodic polarization on the tensile strength of dental amalgam

Summary The effect of corrosion upon dental amalgam was studied by measuring the effect of anodic polarization on its tensile strength. A conventional tensile testing method using dumb-bell shaped specimens deformed along the long axis was employed. The results showed a significant reduction (27%) in the mean tensile strength, due to the anodic polarization of conventional amalgam, whereas the strength of the high Cu-containing Dispersalloy amalgam was unaffected by polarization. When the diametral tensile strengths of polarized and unpolarized conventional amalgam and Dispersalloy specimens were compared (ADA Specification No. 1), no significant difference in strength was observed. These results indicate that the anodic corrosion of γ2 phase network in the conventional amalgam fillings can be directly attributed to a reduction of tensile strength which would be manifested clinically as marginal breakdown. It appears also that the diametral tensile test is not sufficiently discriminating to allow for an in vitro simulation of clinical properties.
Factors affecting ability of skim milk to support phagocytosis by bovine polymorphonuclear leukocytes.

Abstract Milk samples from quarters were collected from 48 Holstein cows at 1.5, 3, 21, and 35 wk postpartum and at 1 wk after drying off. Foremilk samples were obtained for bacteriological examination, somatic cell count of milk, and for assay of phagocytosis. Thirty-two cows in first lactation and 16 in third lactation produced by two criteria of sire selection (high milk versus multiple trait) were studied. In vitro phagocytosis was assayed four times on each original quarter milk sample, yielding 3,840 determinations. Variance components were large for cow-associated variation. Cow, stage × cow, and cow × sample dilution were 18.7, 20.6, and 6.0% of total variance. Phagocytosis was 9% higher in skim milk from third lactations than from first. Phagocytosis was highest in dry period samples, followed by 1.5, 35, 3, and 21-wk postpartum samples. Milk somatic cell count tended to be related more closely to phagocytosis than was current bacteriological status of the quarter. Skim milk from genetically higher producing cows was less conducive to phagocytosis than skim milk from genetically lower producing cows, possibly because of dilution.
Patient characteristics associated with end-of-life decision making in critically ill surgical patients.

Background Palliative care is an important and necessary humanistic facet of ICU care. Wide variations exist in selection and implementation of palliative care decisions. Understanding patient factors associated with these decisions is crucial. Study Design Consecutive deaths (n = 151 patients) in a tertiary care surgical ICU during a 2-year period were reviewed. All data had been entered into the APACHE IV database. Patients were divided into groups: Withhold (WH), which included patients who had potentially lifesaving therapies withheld or withdrawn, and Full Care (FC), which included patients who had full resuscitative efforts before death. Patient factors including demographics, severity of illness, admission source, and history were compared between groups. Results Of 151 patients, 111 (74%) had potentially lifesaving therapy withheld or withdrawn (WH group). Forty patients (26%) had full treatment, including CPR, until time of death (FC group). Compared with WH, FC patients had a higher degree of illness at ICU admission (APACHE IV score 103.4 ± 36.6 vs 90.6 ± 29.3; p Conclusions Higher severity of illness and history play no role in the decision to limit care. Sex plays a strong and independent role. Factors influencing end-of-life care require additional study.
Phenotypic comparison of Caucasian and Asian women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Objective To determine whether manifestations of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), particularly androgen excess, differ between Caucasian and Asian women in the San Francisco Bay Area. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Multidisciplinary PCOS clinic at a tertiary academic center. Patient(s) 121 Caucasian and 28 Asian women, aged 18–44, examined between 2006 and 2011 with PCOS verified by a reproductive endocrinologist and dermatologist according to the Rotterdam criteria. Intervention(s) Transvaginal ultrasounds, comprehensive dermatologic exams, and serum testing. Main Outcome Measure(s) Hirsutism defined as a modified Ferriman-Gallwey (mFG) score ≥8, acne, androgenic alopecia, and biochemical hyperandrogenism. Result(s) Caucasian and Asian women had a similar prevalence of all measures of androgen excess. Both groups had similar total mFG scores and site-specific mFG scores, except Asian women had a lower site-specific mFG score for the chest. Although Asian women were more likely to use laser hair removal, the results were unchanged when the women with a history of laser hair removal were excluded. Conclusion(s) Caucasian and Asian women with PCOS living in the same geographic region had a similar prevalence of hirsutism as well as other markers for androgen excess. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the need for ethnic-specific mFG scores in women with PCOS.
On the estimation of the boundary temperature on a sphere from measurements at its center

Abstract An improperly-posed inverse heat conduction problem with radial symmetry is stabilized by reconstructing a mollified image of the unknowns. Strict error bounds are derived and after introducing certain inverse kernels, the numerical problem is solved with an absolute minimum of computation.
Review of The Ecology of Human Development-Experiments by Nature and Design, by Urie Bronfenbrenner

(1981). The Ecology of Human Development—Experiments by Nature and Design by Urie Bronfenbrenner. Cambridge, Ma.: Harvard University Press, 1979. 330 pp. $16.50. The Educational Forum: Vol. 46, No. 1, pp. 117-123.
Kink dynamics in a one-dimensional double-well field theory

We have studied the dynamics of kinks in a one-dimensional model field theory. We have extended the method we developed earlier for treating multikink configurations for studying the equilibrium properties to the time-dependent case. We have calculated the dynamic structure factor for the displacement fields. We obtain a sharp central peak (a Lorentzian about zero frequency) for small wave numbers and low temperatures. As we increase the wave number or temperature, the central peak broadens and loses weight. We also find a phonon peak at low temperatures which is highly damped and softened for very small wave numbers, but it sharpens for larger wave numbers. We have also evaluated the kink velocity autocorrelation function which has an oscillatory component due to the interaction of the kinks with the phonons. As expected, the mean free path of the kinks becomes very long as the temperature of the system is reduced.
Kinetochore Dynein Is Required for Chromosome Motion and Congression Independent of the Spindle Checkpoint

During mitosis, the motor molecule cytoplasmic dynein plays key direct and indirect roles in organizing microtubules (MTs) into a functional spindle. At this time, dynein is also recruited to kinetochores, but its role or roles at these organelles remain vague, partly because inhibiting dynein globally disrupts spindle assembly [1-4]. However, dynein can be selectively depleted from kinetochores by disruption of ZW10 [5], and recent studies with this approach conclude that kinetochore-associated dynein (KD) functions to silence the spindle-assembly checkpoint (SAC) [6]. Here we use dynein-antibody microinjection and the RNAi of ZW10 to explore the role of KD in chromosome behavior during mitosis in mammals. We find that depleting or inhibiting KD prevents the rapid poleward motion of attaching kinetochores but not kinetochore fiber (K fiber) formation. However, after kinetochores attach to the spindle, KD is required for stabilizing kinetochore MTs, which it probably does by generating tension on the kinetochore, and in its absence, chromosome congression is defective. Finally, depleting KD reduces the velocity of anaphase chromosome motion by ∼40%, without affecting the rate of poleward MT flux. Thus, in addition to its role in silencing the SAC, KD is important for forming and stabilizing K fibers and in powering chromosome motion.