cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Steady-State Tryptophan Fluorescence Spectroscopy Study to Probe Tertiary Structure of Proteins in Solid Powders

The purpose of this work was to obtain information about protein tertiary structure in solid state by using steady state tryptophan (Trp) fluorescence emission spectroscopy on protein powders. Beta-lactoglobulin (betaLg) and interferon alpha-2a (IFN) powder samples were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy using a front surface sample holder. Two different sets of dried betaLg samples were prepared by vacuum drying of solutions: one containing betaLg, and the other containing a mixture of betaLg and guanidine hydrochloride. Dried IFN samples were prepared by vacuum drying of IFN solutions and by vacuum drying of polyethylene glycol precipitated IFN. The results obtained from solid samples were compared with the emission scans of these proteins in solutions. The emission scans obtained from protein powders were slightly blue-shifted compared to the solution spectra due to the absence of water. The emission scans were red-shifted for betaLg samples dried from solutions containing GuHCl. The magnitude of the shifts in lambda(max) depended on the extent of drying of the samples, which was attributed to the crystallization of GuHCl during the drying process. The shifts in the lambda(max) of the Trp emission spectrum are associated with the changes in the tertiary structure of betaLg. In the case of IFN, the emission scans obtained from PEG-precipitated and dried sample were different compared to the emission scans obtained from IFN in solution and from vacuum dried IFN. The double peaks observed in this sample were attributed to the unfolding of the protein. In the presence of trehalose, the two peaks converged to form a single peak, which was similar to solution emission spectra, whereas no change was observed in the presence of mannitol. We conclude that Trp fluorescence spectroscopy provides a simple and reliable means to characterize Trp microenvironment in protein powders that is related to the tertiary conformation of proteins in the solid state. This study shows that the use of fluorescence spectroscopy of proteins can be extended from simple protein aqueous solutions to protein powders, precipitates, and semidried protein samples to gain understanding of protein tertiary structure in these physical states.
A study of interstitial liquid flow in foam. Part I. Theoretical model and application to foam fractionation

A theoretical model for interstitial liquid flow in a stationary or moving foam was devised by relating the physical structure of the foam to the physical properties of the surfactant and the foam movement. This was accomplished through a differential momentum balance within a typical capillary (Plateau border) of noncircular cross section with finite surface viscosity at its boundaries. Velocity profiles were then calculated and integrated numerically for the randomly oriented capillaries so as to obtain the overall liquid flow through the foam in terms of the pertinent variables. Results are presented in a form suitable for estimating concentrations and flow rates of product and waste streams in foam fractionation.
Computer analysis of cardiac catheterization data

Abstract The recent introduction of time-sharing computer systems allows several different investigator to use simultaneously the same computer for analysis of real time data. This paper reports on a computer program written for such a system to perform on-line analysis of data from a cardiac catheterization laboratory. Physiologic analog signals from the patient were transmitted to an analog-to-digital conversion unit, which was attached to an IBM 1800 Process Control Computer. After conversion, the data were transferred by the 1800 into an IBM 360/50 digital computer, which was programmed to analyze atrial pressure, ventricular pressure, peripheral pressure (aortic or pulmonary artery), wedge pressure, brachial artery pressure and cardiac output signals obtained during both right and left heart catheterizations. After pertinent data were obtained from the basic signals, the computer was programmed to calculate various derived values, such as systolic and diastolic time intervals, valve gradients, valve areas, stroke work, stroke power and vascular resistances. Important technics were the use of on-off switches to communicate directly with the computer, interaction between the computer and the cardiologist, and safeguards to assure the cardiologist that accurate data were presented for analysis. Preliminary results indicate that such a program and hardware system can be used without specially trained personnel to analyze rapidly and accurately data obtained during cardiac catheterization.
Baseline mannose binding lectin levels may not predict infection among children with leukemia.

We measured baseline serum mannose binding lectin (MBL) levels in 91 patients with childhood leukemia to determine their predictive value for the development of febrile neutropenia or specific infections. Median MBL levels did not differ significantly between patients who developed febrile neutropenia, bacterial infection, or disseminated fungal infection and those who did not. In addition, low MBL levels were not associated with an increased cumulative incidence of infection or with a shorter time to first infection. This preliminary study suggests that baseline MBL levels may not be clinically useful to identify pediatric leukemia patients who are at increased risk of infection. Additional studies are required to determine whether serial MBL measurements may be valuable for this purpose. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:866–868. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A structural approach to the temporal modeling of networks

Simulation of many dynamic real world systems such as the Internet and social networks requires developing dynamic models for the underlying networks in these systems. Currently, there is a large body of work devoted towards determining the underlying mechanisms that create these networks, but the resulting models have not realistically captured many of the important structural characteristics when compared with real world examples. Towards creating more realistic dynamic models, we propose a method of structurally constructing models of an evolving network. We then conduct a series of computational experiments in modeling the evolution of the autonomous system (AS) topology of the Internet to test the effectiveness of our approach.
Interfacial Energy and Materials Selection Criteria in Composite Microstructured Optical Fiber Fabrication

The recently expanding field of microstructured optical fibers relies on the controlled fabrication of sub-micron features in a fiber drawn in the viscous fluid state. Microstructured fibers have generated great interest owing to their potential in areas such as photonic bandgap guidance of light in low-index media; high-energy laser transmission; and unique control over waveguide non-linearities, dispersion and modal properties [1-6]. These fibers have been made from a single material with air holes [7, 8] and as multi-material 'composite' fibers where air is not a part of the microstructured region [6, 9]. While single-material microstructured fibers generally rely on the established technology base of fused silica, the use of less conventional materials may enable applications not possible using silica [6]. Multi-material fibers may also present certain fabrication advantages due to their incompressible domains and simple cylindrical geometries. However, the use of more than one material raises questions about which types of materials can be combined in the drawing of a microstructured fiber. This problem can be approached by analyzing the relative importance of different materials properties such as viscosity, interfacial energy, and thermal expansion. In this study we focus on the effects of interfacial energy in composite microstructured fibers. We measure the interfacial energies at high temperature of a chalcogenide glass and an organic polymer recently employed in the fabrication of composite photonic bandgap optical fibers. We discuss the effect of interfacial energy during fiber draw, as well as the interplay between surface and viscous forces. Finally, we comment on the implications of this analysis for understanding what classes of materials can be used in composite microstructured fiber fabrication.
Monomethylarsonous Acid (MMAIII) Has an Adverse Effect on the Innate Immune Response of Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells to Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Arsenic is the number one contaminant of concern with regard to human health according to the World Health Organization. Epidemiological studies on Asian and South American populations have linked arsenic exposure with an increased incidence of lung disease, including pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, both of which are associated with bacterial infection. However, little is known about the effects of low dose arsenic exposure, or the contributions of organic arsenic to the innate immune response to bacterial infection. This study examined the effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) induced cytokine secretion by human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEC) by inorganic sodium arsenite (iAsIII) and two major metabolites, monomethylarsonous acid (MMAIII) and dimethylarsenic acid (DMAV), at concentrations relevant to the U.S. population. Neither iAsIII nor DMAV altered P. aeruginosa induced cytokine secretion. By contrast, MMAIII increased P. aeruginosa induced secretion of IL-8, IL-6 and CXCL2. A combination of iAsIII, MMAIII and DMAV (10 pbb total) reduced IL-8 and CXCL1 secretion. These data demonstrate for the first time that exposure to MMAIII alone, and a combination of iAsIII, MMAIII and DMAV at levels relevant to the U.S. may have negative effects on the innate immune response of human bronchial epithelial cells to P. aeruginosa.
War, Factionalism, and the State in Afghanistan

Since September 11, 2001, the explanations offered to account for the rise of a foreign-led terrorist network on Afghan soil have variously focused on the political vacuum opened up by the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in February 1989, interference by foreign powers in Afghanistan's internal affairs, the failure of Afghanistan to produce a "strong state" because of ethnic factionalism, and an internal moral incoherence inherent to Afghan culture. I argue that none of these explanations is entirely satisfactory in itself. To understand the situation in Afghanistan, we must recognize that its political and military chaos is not an isolated or unique phenomenon, and at the same time acknowledge the particular social and political dynamics of Afghanistan's history that have set the parameters for current events. I show that communal conflicts in Afghanistan are part of a much wider affliction common to many postcolonial states and multinational societies, and that Afghanistan's current situation can only be understood by focusing on its failed attempts at nation-state building within the broader geopolitical circumstance of foreign manipulation and proxy wars that have given rise to particular forms of ethnic division. [Keywords: Afghanistan, nation-building, ethnic factionalism, warfare, the State]
The role of ultrasound in the diagnosis and management of salivary disease

The major salivary glands lend themselves well to ultrasound (US) examination, owing to their location and their soft tissue characteristics. With adequate training and experience, clinicians can perform and interpret salivary gland US and frequently obviate the need for MRI or CT imaging. US features of the major inflammatory, neoplastic, and miscellaneous salivary gland disorders are described and demonstrated in this article. US-guided procedures including fine needle biopsy, sclerotherapy, and therapeutic injection have numerous applications to salivary gland pathology, and techniques are discussed. US enhances the diagnosis and management of common salivary gland diseases in the office setting.
Effect of resynchronization with GnRH on day 21 after artificial insemination on pregnancy rate and pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows

The objectives of the present study were to determine the effects of resynchronization with GnRH on Day 21 after artificial insemination (AI) on pregnancy rate and losses of pregnancy in lactating dairy cows. Holstein cows (n ¼ 585) on two dairy farms were assigned to one of two treatments in a randomized complete block design. On Day 21 after a pre-enrollment AI, animals assigned to the resynchronization (RES) group received 100 mg of GnRH i.m., whereas animals in the control (CON) group received no treatment. All animals were examined ultrasonographically on Days 21 and 28 after AI, and blood samples were taken for progesterone measurement on Day 21. Pregnancy was diagnosed on Day 28 and reconfirmed 14 days later. Nonpregnant cows on Day 28 were inseminated using timed AI after the completion of the Ovsynch protocol 10 and 17 days after enrollment in the study for RES and CON groups, respectively. Progesterone concentration � 2:35 ng/ml was used as an indicator of pregnancy on Day 21. For RES and CON cows, pregnancy rate at Days 21 (70.9% versus 73.0%, P < 0:56), 28 (33.1% versus 33.6%; P < 0:80) and 42 (27.0% versus 26.8%; P < 0:98) after the pre-enrollment AI did not differ. Administration of GnRH on Day 21 after AI had no effect on pregnancy loss in RES and CON groups from days 21 to 28 (53.2% versus 53.5%; P < 0:94) and days 28 to 42 (17.9%; P < 0:74) after AI. Pregnancy rate after the resynchronization period was similar for both treatment groups. Resynchronization with GnRH given on Day 21 after AI for initiation of a timed AI protocol prior to pregnancy diagnosis does not affect pregnancy rate and pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. # 2003 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
Single-balloon colonoscopy versus repeat standard colonoscopy for previous incomplete colonoscopy: a randomized, controlled trial.

Background Optical colonoscopy is the only examination allowing complete visualization of the colon with simultaneous polyp removal. In a minority of patients, a complete examination is unsuccessful. It is unknown whether single-balloon, overtube-assisted colonoscopy (SBC) is superior to simply repeating a standard colonoscopy (SC) on an alternate day. Objective To compare the success rates of SC and SBC in patients with previous incomplete examinations. Design Randomized, controlled trial. Setting Tertiary care academic center. Patients Thirty subjects with previous incomplete colonoscopy. Interventions Repeat colonoscopy either by SC or SBC. If cecal intubation was unsuccessful, subjects were crossed over to the alternate group. Results Thirty subjects (73.3% female, mean age 59.2 years) with previous incomplete colonoscopy were randomized (SBC, 14 subjects; SC, 16 subjects). Cecal intubation was significantly more successful with SBC (92.9%) than with SC (50%) ( P = .016). For all SC failures, cecal intubation was successful after crossover to the SBC group (100%). Cecal intubation time was similar in both groups. Proximal colon adenomas were detected in 38.1% of subjects. There were no procedure-related complications. Limitations Singe endoscopist performing all procedures; inability to ensure all incomplete colonoscopies were included in the study. Conclusions For patients with a previous incomplete colonoscopy, balloon colonoscopy performed by using the single-balloon enteroscope with an overtube was superior to a repeat attempt with a standard colonoscope. For patients with a previous incomplete examination, consideration should be given to a repeat attempt with balloon colonoscopy if available. (Clinical trial registration number: STU00008540.)
Formative Period Political Differentiation in the Southern Valley of Mexico: A Comment on Steponaitis

In his recent article, Steponaitis (AA 83: 320-363, 1981) presents an interpretation of the relationship between political differentiation, site size, and catchment productivity for the Formative Period in portions of the Valley of Mexico. This analysis focuses on data from the Texcoco, Ixtalapa, Chalco, and Xochimilco regions in the southern Valley of Mexico. In essence, Steponaitis suggests that larger sites reflect differences in population sizes, which are, in turn, a function of the productivity of a site's catchment and its position within a regional political hierarchy (p. 325). In exploring the relationship between these three major variables, Steponaitis indicates that, in the absence of political differentiation, there is a direct positive relationship between population (as measured by site size) and the productivity of a site's catchment (p. 326, Fig. 2a). As political differentiation emerges, higher-order sites will begin to occur. Second-order sites termed "local centers" are argued to contain both economic producers and nonproducers (p. 327). The nonproducers in these local centers are said to be supported jointly by the producers that also reside there and by the extraction of tribute from nucleated villages that occur on the lowest tier of the regional hierarchy. Steponaitis argues that this process characterizes the emergence of local centers in the Late Formative Period in the
Fair Scheduling over multiple servers with flow-dependent server rate

We address the quality of service (QoS) provisioning problem in an aggregated multi-server environment. The input packet stream traffic to the system is categorized at a macro level into a few "flow-classes" that require service differentiation; each class is further subdivided into "flows" at the micro-level. Flows can be serviced by any server: however; the service rate is a function of the class and the particular server. Given such an environment, we have a multi-criteria optimization objective: (i) provide differentiated service to flows, (ii) achieve load balancing of the servers and (iii) maximize their throughput (amount of bytes serviced). We present an on-line fluid-based approximation scheme to schedule packets. Modeling the accumulated traffic in a class as fluid we use linear programming to first determine the optimal fractions that should be directed to different servers while ensuring fairness and high server throughput. We propose a packet scheduling strategy for the multi-server framework (by extending a well-known fair round-robin algorithm for single link systems) that effectively incorporates the optimal service fractions determined in the previous step. We validate the proposed algorithm with extensive simulations. The results show that the algorithm imparts high throughput with good service differentiation. We also evaluate reordering of packet requests within flow streams by presenting relevant metrics that quantify reordering
Substance use among HIV-infected patients engaged in primary care in the United States: findings from the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems cohort.

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to better understand substance use behaviors and deleterious health consequences among individuals with HIV.Methods. We examined a multicenter cohort of HIV-infected patients (n = 3413) receiving care in 4 US cities (Seattle, Birmingham, San Diego, Boston) between December 2005 and April 2010 in the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS). We used generalized estimating equations to model specific substance use outcomes.Results. Overall, 24% of patients reported recent use of marijuana; 9% reported amphetamine use, 9% reported crack–cocaine use, 2% reported opiate use, 3.8% reported injection drug use, and 10.3% reported polydrug use. In adjusted multivariable models, those who reported unprotected anal sex had higher odds of marijuana, amphetamine, injection drug, and polydrug use. An increased number of distinct vaginal sexual partners was associated with polydrug and crack–cocaine use. Nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy was ...
The X-ray structure of the papillomavirus helicase in complex with its molecular matchmaker E2

DNA replication of the papillomaviruses is specified by cooperative binding of two proteins to the ori site: the enhancer E2 and the viral initiator E1, a distant member of the AAA+ family of proteins. Formation of this prereplication complex is an essential step toward the construction of a functional, multimeric E1 helicase and DNA melting. To understand how E2 interacts with E1 to regulate this process, we have solved the X-ray structure of a complex containing the HPV18 E2 activation domain bound to the helicase domain of E1. Modeling the monomers of E1 to a hexameric helicase shows that E2 blocks hexamerization of E1 by shielding a region of the E1 oligomerization surface and stabilizing a conformation of E1 that is incompatible with ATP binding. Further biochemical experiments and structural analysis show that ATP is an allosteric effector of the dissociation of E2 from E1. Our data provide the first molecular insights into how a protein can regulate the assembly of an oligomeric AAA+ complex and explain at a structural level why E2, after playing a matchmaker role by guiding E1 to the DNA, must dissociate for subsequent steps of initiation to occur. Building on previously proposed ideas, we discuss how our data advance current models for the conversion of E1 in the prereplication complex to a hexameric helicase assembly.
Recovering structure and 3-D motion parameters of a rigid planar patch using moments

It is shown that a binocular observer can recover the 3-D structure and motion of a rigid planar patch. This is accomplished by combining motion and stereo to obtain linear equations in the unknowns, which yield unique solutions. The approach is based on the aggregate stereo method and on the general theory of moments. The computation of a limited set of moments of four images is required. The images of the rigid planar patch involved are two before and two after the motion. Real-time application of the approach is possible, since image moments can be computed in real time (frame rates). Knowledge of point-to-point correspondences between the different images is not required. The approach presented solves the problem of motion estimation by looking at the object as an array of 3-D points. It is assumed that there is only one object in the image and that the object is undergoing rigid motion. >
Can Users Play an Effective Role in Parallel Tools Research

Commercial experiences have shown that involving users in the software design cycle is a cost-effective way of improving both the quality and the acceptability of tool products. This paper addresses the issue of whether users also should be involved in the research activities that lay the foundation for parallel tool design. Integrating users changes the basic nature of the software process in sev eral ways, as illustrated with examples from recent Parallel Tools Consortium projects. Tool designers must invest additional time to prepare example scenarios or proto types for user discussions, identify alternatives that can serve as points of departure for user-derived meta phors or models, and analyze user responses. By iden tifying user suggestions consistently throughout the de sign process, however, the development time for research prototypes is actually shortened.
IN SITUMEASUREMENT OF PHOTOCHEMICAL REACTIONS IN MICRODROPLETS

Abstract A technique based on fluorescence scattering by microdroplets has been shown to be capable of measuring instantaneous rates of photochemical reactions in microdroplets. The technique has been applied to study trans -to-cis photoisomerization of thioindigo dye in single solution droplets suspended in an electrodynamic balance. Through an analysis it is shown that the concentration distributions of isomers remain uniform in a droplet under the experimental conditions; thus, the scattered fluorescence intensity from the droplet is proportional to the concentration of solely fluorescent trans isomer molecules. The steady-state scattered fluorescence intensity versus incident laser power data have been used to interpret the kinetics of the reaction. The results show that the rate constants can be determined from the scattered fluorescence intensity versus time data. The technique is particularly suitable when only one species fluoresces in the photo-reactive wavelength range while other species present in a droplet do not.
Primary leiomyosarcoma of the pulmonary artery

Abstract A patient with an intractable cough was found to have a primary leiomyosarcoma of the pulmonary artery. The tumor was diagnosed by angiocardiography and resected. One year later the patient was reoperated on because of recurrence of the tumor, but it was not completely resectable.
Is Tasting Believing? The Effect Of Peel-And-Taste Advertising On Product Feelings And Likelihood Of Purchase

Scratch-and-sniff product samples have been used as surrogate methods of inducing product trial since the 1990s, but to date tasting a product required either in-store or in-home interactions with actual products. Peel-and-Taste flavor strips were introduced in 2007 as a means of putting product sample substitutes in the hands of many by virtue of being attached to advertising pieces in magazines, newspaper blow-ins, and direct mail. This study utilized a sample of female consumers (the targeted recipients of the ads) to allow them to interact with advertising samples using Peel-and-Taste, and measuring various resulting attitudes. Results showed that ratings of flavor pleasantness and the Peel-and-Taste method itself were positive significant predictors of Feelings Toward the Product (FTP), and that FTP and the participant’s resulting mood state were positive significant predictors of Likelihood To Purchase (LTP) the product. In aggregate, though, FTP was modest at best, and LTP was virtually indifferent. It was concluded that the Peel-and-Taste method, while favorably linked to FTP and LTP, was not so strong as to be a significant stimulus to purchase the product.
Heart failure preserved ejection fraction with coronary artery disease: time for a new classification?

In the past, systolic dysfunction was believed to be the predominant cause of heart failure (HF). That concept is no longer tenable, because in the United States and elsewhere, at least half of the HF population has a normal or near-normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Even more
Effect of Native Microflora, Waiting Period, and Storage Temperature on Listeria monocytogenes Serovars Transferred from Cantaloupe Rind to Fresh-Cut Pieces during Preparation†

The most recent outbreak of listeriosis linked to consumption of fresh-cut cantaloupes indicates the need to investigate the behavior of Listeria monocytogenes in the presence of native microflora of cantaloupe pieces during storage. Whole cantaloupes were inoculated with L. monocytogenes (108-CFU/ml suspension) for 10 min and air dried in a biosafety cabinet for 1 h and then treated (unwashed, water washed, and 2.5% hydrogen peroxide washed). Fresh-cut pieces (~3 cm) prepared from these melons were left at 5 and 10°C for 72 h and room temperature (20°C) for 48 h. Some fresh-cut pieces were left at 20°C for 2 and 4 h and then refrigerated at 5°C. Microbial populations of fresh-cut pieces were determined by the plate count method or enrichment method immediately after preparation. Aerobic mesophilic bacteria, yeast and mold of whole melon, and inoculated populations of L. monocytogenes on cantaloupe rind surfaces averaged 6.4, 3.3, and 4.6 log CFU/cm2, respectively. Only H2O2 (2.5%) treatment reduced the a...
Summations Involving Computer-Related Functions

(1989). Summations Involving Computer-Related Functions. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 62, No. 3, pp. 191-196.
Inability of LH administered in a delay vehicle to maintain luteal function.

SummaryIt has been demonstrated that LH administered in delay vehicle to hypophysectomized nonpregnant rats does not support the progestational function of corpora lutea.
Venous diseases in elderly people.

Chronic venous insufficiency of the lower extremities secondary to varices or thrombophlebitis is almost always preventable by proper treatment of the primary venous disease. Prevention of the more serious secondary disease assumes special importance in light of the many other serious physical and mental disorders commonly seen in elderly people.
Prospects for Regulation of Off-Label Drug Promotion in an Era of Expanding Commercial Speech Protection

On December 3, 2012, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit handed the government yet another setback in its quest to stem the deleterious public health effects of aggressive pharmaceutical marketing. United States v. Caronia involved a First Amendment challenge to a pharmaceutical sales representatives’ criminal misdemeanor prosecution for promoting the narcolepsy drug Xyrem for multiple off-label uses by making oral statements about uses of the drug not approved by the Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") during sales calls to a physician’s office. On the basis of evidence about his statements presented at trial, the representative, Alfred Caronia, was convicted of conspiracy to introduce a misbranded drug into interstate commerce. In a 2-1 decision, the Second Circuit held that the government had prosecuted Caronia because he engaged in constitutionally protected commercial speech, in violation of his First Amendment rights. In this Article, we review the implications of the Caronia decision for the FDA’s ability to regulate off-label promotion and set it in the context of other major court decisions concerning the scope of First Amendment protection for commercial speech concerning pharmaceuticals. After summarizing the statutory and regulatory framework governing off-label promotional communications, we review relevant precedent and the Caronia decision. Considering both the Caronia case and other precedents, we then consider what avenues remain for FDA regulation of off-label promotion by pharmaceutical manufacturers. We discuss five potential strategies. The first three revolve around key technical issues arising from Caronia: ensuring that prosecutions are based on written rather than oral statements, emphasizing that speech is being used as evidence of intent, and focusing on the false or misleading nature of the promotional materials. The fourth involves a frontal challenge to the Second Circuit panel’s decision in Caronia — we suggest ways in which the government could make a stronger case that its regulatory framework for off-label promotion satisfies the criteria of the Central Hudson test. Finally, we consider alternative regulatory regimes for off-label promotion, such as limited approvals of off-label indications paired with limits on prescribing and accelerated supplemental FDA approval for promotion of unapproved uses. These options may be useful if the government has to intervene to prevent the substantial public health risks of unfettered off-label promotion that may emerge in a post-Caronia world.
Three-Layer Model for the Emergence of Ultrastable Glasses from the Surfaces of Supercooled Liquids.

Ultrastable glasses produced by vapor deposition exhibit properties consistent with glasses that have been aged for thousands of years or more. These materials’ properties are believed to emerge from the presence of a mobile layer at the surface of supercooled liquids that allows access to lower-energy states. However, the precise mechanism by which this enhanced mobility is translated into ultrastable glass behavior remains incompletely understood. Here we show that enhanced densities and stabilities consistent with ultrastable glasses specifically can emerge as a result of a mismatch in the length scales of thermodynamic and dynamic gradients at the surfaces of equilibrium supercooled liquids. In particular, ultrastable glass properties can be understood within a three-layer model of the interface in which a “facilitated layer” intermediate between the surface and bulk exhibits bulk-like liquid-state density but suppressed Tg. This mismatch in length-scale has previously been correlated with the scale o...
Are Immature Platelets Growing Up?: Toward a New Marker of Antiplatelet Drug Resistance.

In 2003, Gurbel et al. [(1)][1] observed that the response of platelets to the P2Y12 inhibitor clopidogrel was nonuniform and suggested that patients who have persistently high ex vivo platelet reactivity while receiving clopidogrel might be prone to stent thrombosis and myocardial infarction.
Software requirements practices: some real data

There is little empirical data available on actual practices of software professionals for software requirements elicitation, development of the requirements specification documents and validation of the specification. An exploratory survey of several hundred software and systems practioners was conducted and the results from 194 respondents are analyzed. Several surprising results emerged regarding the pervasiveness of object-oriented and formal methodologies as well as the perceived real value of various approaches.
All stressed out

When a fluid flows over a solid surface, its velocity usually goes to zero at the interface with the solid. But in some situations that can't happen — it would prevent a fluid from flowing along a glass into one's mouth, for example — so there must be some slip at the interface. A more general way for slip to occur has now been discovered, probably indicating that a given interface can only sustain so much stress.
Sharing and Group Conflict: Going Beyond Decision Making to Understand the Effects of Information Sharing on Group Information Performance

The relationship between information sharing in groups and group performance is often explained by effects on group decision making. We believe that information sharing can have other group process-related effects. We propose a model of how information sharing in teams affects task conflict, relationship conflict and ultimately team performance as mediated by conflict. Specifically, we predict a negative relationship between information sharing and task conflict, and we expect this effect to be magnified in groups whose work processes are more interdependent. We also predict a negative relationship between information sharing and relationship conflict, but we expect this effect to be minimized in groups with higher general mental ability. We tested our hypotheses on 38 teams of MBA students. These teams competed in a week long case competition where group performance was quantitatively judged by a panel of faculty and industry experts. Data on information sharing, task interdependence, task conflict and relationship conflict were collected via survey during the week of the case competition. While information sharing was found to have the predicted negative relationship with task conflict, the role of task interdependence as a moderator was the opposite of our prediction. The relationship between information sharing and relationship conflict operated as expected, demonstrating that in teams with a lower level of GMA, increased information sharing considerably reduced the level of relationship conflict, while it made no difference in teams with higher levels of GMA.
Efficacy of Medical Expulsive Therapy in Renal Calculi Less than or Equal to 5 Millimetres in Size

Purpose: Natural history and modality of treatment for asymptomatic renal calculi less than or equal to 5 millimetres in size is still unknown. Many options are available ranging from medical expulsive therapy to minimally invasive surgery. Till date no study has focussed on this very common but asymptomatic issue. Hence, this study is undertaken to evaluate efficacy of medical expulsive therapy in renal calculi less than or equal to 5mm in size. Materials and Methods: A prospective, parallel group, randomized study was carried out from 1st June 2014 to 31st May 2015, with total of 100 patients, 50 patients in each group. Patients with renal stones less than or equal to 5mm were included in the study. Group A Patients were administered medical expulsive therapy which included tamsulosin 0.4 mg daily at night time, furosemide 20mg, spironolactone 50mg in a single morning dose, and syrup potassium magnesium citrate 20Meq per dose three times a day for 12 weeks while group B patients were given placebo. The primary outcome variable was number of patients achieving clearance of stone during 12-week treatment period in both groups. Results: No statistically significant differences in age, gender, stone size, and calyceal stone location was found between the two treatment arms. A spontaneous stone expulsion rate of 50% (at 6 weeks) and 86 %( at 12 weeks) was noted in group A versus 28% (at 6 weeks) and 38 % (at 12 weeks) in group B. Less number of pain episodes and less analgesic medication was required in group A as compared to group B. Conclusion: Medical Expulsive therapy for 12 weeks significantly improves stone free rates in renal calyceal calculi less than or equal to 5mm.
Honest signalling and the billboard effect: how Heliconiid pollinators respond to the trichromatic colour changing Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae)

Plants communicate with their pollinators through an astonishing range of signals that serve as either honest or deceptive cues which draw in and inform potential visitors of possible rewards. In wild type sweet sage, Lantana camara , floral colour signals were associated with nectar volume and sucrose concentration, and many pollinator taxa quickly learned to associate these varying colour signals with rewards. We tested the hypothesis that if sweet sage is employing a generalist pollinator strategy based on a trichromatic changing floral presentation system of honest rewards for pollinators, then the following predictions will be realized: 1) pre-change yellow flowers will be visited more frequently by pollinators than post change orange, or red flowers; 2) pre-change yellow flowers will produce higher quality and greater quantities of sucrose rewards than post-change orange, or red flowers; 3) inflorescences with higher ratios of rewarding flowers to unrewarding flowers are more attractive at short distances; and 4) inflorescences with a combination of pre-change rewarding and post-change rewarding and unrewarding flowers will act as a multi-coloured advertising billboard and as such be most attractive at long distances. We found corroboration for all of the aforementioned predictions. Thus, sweet sage evolved a generalized pollination visitation system based on honest signalling―of reward quantity and quality tied to colour changing visual signals acting in consort to produce a billboard that was easily perceived and deciphered. These resulted in high visitation rates by many different taxa of pollinators, thus contributing to higher individual plant fitness.
Trends in Health Savings Account Balances, Contributions, Distributions, and Investments, 2011-2016: Statistics from the EBRI HSA Database

The Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) developed the EBRI HSA Database to analyze the state of, and individual behavior in, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). The HSA database contains 5.5 million accounts with total assets of $11.4 billion as of Dec. 31, 2016. This paper is the first longitudinal study from the HSA database and supplements the annual cross-sectional analyses. It examines trends in account balances, individual and employer contributions, distributions, invested assets, and account-owner demographics from 2011-2016. Plan sponsors who wish to introduce or continue offering HSA-eligible health plans as part of their workplace benefit program can leverage this long-term view of account-holder behaviors when developing strategies to increase employee financial wellness. Average total contributions -- combined individual and employer contributions -- increased from $2,348 to $2,922 between 2011 and 2016. Overall, 63 percent of account holders withdrew funds. The average annual amount distributed was $1,771 in 2016, implying an average rollover of $1,151. Very few account owners invested their HSA balance in investments other than cash despite the tax-saving possibilities. In 2016, 4 percent had investments other than cash. Average end-of-year balances, by the year the account was opened, show that financial security increases over time. Accounts opened in 2004 (or earlier) had an average $14,873 year-end account balance, while accounts opened in 2016 had an average $1,027 year-end account balance. Annual 2016 contributions are higher the longer an account owner had an account. Individual contributions averaged $3,658 among those who opened their account in 2005, but only averaged $1,290 among those who opened their account in 2016. Older, larger accounts offer a stronger hedge against unexpected bills. Those accounts opened in 2005 had an average annual distribution of $2,756, while those only opened in 2016 took $1,051 in distributions. Over time, account owners appear to see the value in investing. In 2016, 11 percent of accounts opened in 2005 had investments other than cash, compared to only 1 percent among those opened in 2016. It is possible that rules requiring minimum balances may have prevented owners of relatively new accounts from investing as the accounts would not have reached the minimum balance requirement.
Mechanoregulated inhibition of formin facilitates contractile actomyosin ring assembly

Cytokinesis physically separates dividing cells by forming a contractile actomyosin ring. The fission yeast contractile ring has been proposed to assemble by Search-Capture-Pull-Release from cytokinesis precursor nodes that include the molecular motor type-II myosin Myo2 and the actin assembly factor formin Cdc12. By successfully reconstituting Search-Capture-Pull in vitro, we discovered that formin Cdc12 is a mechanosensor, whereby myosin pulling on formin-bound actin filaments inhibits Cdc12-mediated actin assembly. We mapped Cdc12 mechanoregulation to its formin homology 1 domain, which facilitates delivery of new actin subunits to the elongating actin filament. Quantitative modeling suggests that the pulling force of the myosin propagates through the actin filament, which behaves as an entropic spring, and thereby may stretch the disordered formin homology 1 domain and impede formin-mediated actin filament elongation. Finally, live cell imaging of mechano-insensitive formin mutant cells established that mechanoregulation of formin Cdc12 is required for efficient contractile ring assembly in vivo. The fission yeast cytokinetic ring assembles by Search-Capture-Pull-Release from precursor nodes that include formin Cdc12 and myosin Myo2. The authors reconstitute Search-Capture-Pull in vitro and find that Myo2 pulling on Cdc12-associated actin filaments mechano-inhibits Cdc12-mediated assembly, which enables proper ring assembly in vivo.
Survey of Radioactive Items in the Home

Whether it be from the sun or naturally encountered substances, we are exposed to radiation every day. Some items found in the home either are naturally radioactive or have a component containing radioactive material. This study was conducted to assess exposure from 4 such items previously shown to be radioactive: Fiestaware, granite, smoke detectors, and Brazil nuts. Using 3 types of radiation detectors to obtain quantitative and qualitative information on the radioactive properties of these items, we found little to no harmful radiation exposure from any of them.
Stresses in Torsion

Sandra Snowflake, an X-ray technician at Mega General Hospital, spent most of her spare time either in the gym or in the park running. Thus she was in excellent physical shape. Her major reason for staying in shape was her love of skiing, and she worked and lived for the three separate weeks she took for ski vacations in Colorado. This year spring skiing was exceptionally good, and she was at the top of her form, schussing down the black diamond runs with ease. Unfortunately, the new bindings she was getting used to had not been adjusted exactly right, and she knew immediately —when she hit the icy patch and lost control of her outside ski—that her leg was broken. This was confirmed at the small hospital at the base of the slope where she was taken by the ski patrol. When Dr. Fromm showed her the film of her leg, her experienced eye recognized a spiral fracture of the tibia. Why does torsion create a tibial fracture?
Effect of Injection Rate on Micro-seismicity Due to the Hydraulic Fracturing of Granite

Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) utilize the heat of the earth to produce electricity or to heat buildings. In EGS, a crystalline rock, usually granite, is hydraulically-fractured to produce a network of fractures through which the water is circulated. While several pilot projects have proven that this technology can be successful, the strong seismicity caused during the hydraulic fracturing stage is limiting its widespread use. Therefore, the causes of this micro-seismicity need to be better understood. This research evaluated the effect of the rate of water injected in granite specimens on the magnitude and number of micro-seismic events produced during recently-conducted hydraulic fracturing tests. In these tests, granite specimens subjected to two different vertical loads (0 and 5 MPa) were hydraulically-fractured while visual and micro-seismic monitoring was performed. The objectives of this paper were to examine the relationship between the number and amplitudes of the first P-wave arrivals of micro-seismic hits, and the rates of water injected used in the tests. It was found that in pressure increments closer to failure, more AE (Acoustic Emission) hits occur after the highest injection rates. This delayed seismic response may be due to the release of stresses accumulated during the high injection-rate stages of the tests. The study also showed that considerable energy is released throughout the tests as hits with relatively high P-wave amplitudes are observed before the visible fractures propagate
Comparing clarinet grunt and squeak notes to transitions in coupled oscillators

Under certain circumstance, a clarinet can cause an undesired squeak or grunt note. A squeak note is the clarinet shifting to a higher register—a higher set of harmonics—while a grunt note is the clarinet shifting to a lower register. One might hypothesize that such changes occur naturally in the clarinet over time. Analysis of such transitions with waterfall plots reveals a similarity to transitions made with thermoacoustically-driven coupled oscillators. For coupled oscillators, transitions can occur when the resonance of one oscillator passes through that of the other. This suggests that the cause of the undesired transitions in the clarinet are the result of one resonance (possibly the reed, which is affected by the embouchure) passing through that of the resonance of the other (likely the bore) rather than the clarinet itself relaxing to a different register as a function of time. Notes played on an artificially-blown clarinet in the second register were shown to be stable over several minutes. This ...
The Rolling Tire Under Load

Dynamic pressure distributions calculated for contact patch areas of elastically supported cylindrical shell used to model pneumatic tire
Human von Willebrand Factor and the Problems in Sequence Analysis of a 280 K Dalton Protein

While it is true that DNA sequencing technology probably provides the simplest and fastest prediction of the raw polypeptide backbone structure of proteins, such predicted sequences should be correlated with those of the mature protein products to avoid frame shift errors, to correct for intron excisions, and to identify the sites of a variety of processing events, any of which may influence expression of function.
TRANSMEMBRANE CHANNELS MADE BY COLICINS

I believe that Herman Kalckar’s interest in membranes, like my own, was first aroused when bacterial mutations were discovered that affected the synthesis of the polysaccharides of the bacterial envelope. His interest was kindled later by his own finding that the same periplasmic binding protein mediated both galactose transport and the chemotactic response to galactose.