cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epicatechin Content in Fermented and Unfermented Cocoa Beans

As determined by high performance liquid chromatography, (-)- epicatechin concentrations among freshly harvested beans of verified genetic origin ranged from 21.89–43.27 mg/g of dry defatted samples. Fermented beans showed much lower concentrations (2–10 mg). During fermentation, a trend towards decrease in (-)-epicatechin content was observed. Commercial beans from areas with reputations for shipping well-fermented products contained lower levels of (-)-epicatechin than beans from regions where fermentation is less extensive.
Cumulative radiation exposure estimates of hospitalized patients from radiological imaging

Purpose To examine the use of inpatient diagnostic imaging and image-guided procedures to estimate cumulative radiation exposure, radiation exposure based on imaging modality, and compare estimated doses based on patient demographics including age, gender, and diagnoses. Methods Two hundred consecutive hospitalized adult patients who underwent diagnostic imaging studies at 2 large, affiliated hospitals were identified, and every study in each patient's electronic record that took place during a single hospitalization was reviewed. Dose estimates were calculated for each CT, fluoroscopy, nuclear medicine, plain film, and interventional radiology study or procedure based on reported dose length product, published reference values, and conversion factors. Medical records were reviewed to determine patient gender, age, diagnoses, length of stay, admitting service, and time in an intensive care unit (ICU). Results Two hundred inpatients (46.5% male; mean age, 60.4 years) underwent 2,751 imaging studies (79.3% radiographs, 9.7% CT, 6.1% ultrasound, 2.5% interventional radiology, 2.2% MRI, 0.4% nuclear medicine). The mean dose estimate per patient was 14.8 milliSieverts (mSv) and the range was 0 mSv to 130.5 mSv. Mean cumulative dose estimates were significantly higher for patients whose hospitalizations included time in an ICU (17.9 mSv versus 11.3 mSv [ P = .01]). CT examinations accounted for 82.1% of the total radiation dose estimate. Eleven patients (5.5%) received radiation dose estimates ≥50 mSv, including 2 ≥100 mSv. Conclusions Of imaged inpatients, 62% underwent at least 1 CT and the majority (82.1%) of inpatient radiation exposure was attributable to CT examinations. Mean dose estimate was 14.8 mSv per patient; 5.5% of patients experienced estimated doses ≥50 mSv.
Predators of Dusky Canada Goose goslings and the effect of transmitters on gosling survival

The population of Dusky Canada Geese {Branta canadensis occidentalis) has been in long-term decline, likely due to reduced breeding productivity. To identify causes of mortality, we monitored goslings marked with radio transmitters on the western Copper River Delta, Alaska, from 1997 to 1999. Almost all gosling mortality (96%; 81 of 84) was due to pr?dation, with mink (Mustela vison) and Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) the most important predators. Bald Eagles are also major nest predators and, thus, appear to play a key role in limiting the breeding productivity of Dusky Canada Geese. Daily survival rate for goslings to 28 d of age was lower (0.011; 95% CI 0.002?0.024) for those with transmitters than for those without, but did not differ for older goslings (29?45 d). Although finer resolution in the timing of the transmitter effect within the first 28 d was not possible, we found that, by limiting our sample to goslings that survived until after 2?3 d posthatching, support for a transmitter effect was much reduced. Younger, smaller birds are inherently more vulnerable than older birds to transmitter effects. In addition, the process of radio-marking may have delayed the departure of goslings from nests and increased their risk of mortality shortly after hatching. Although radio transmitters may often be the only practical means for determining causes of mortality for young waterfowl, we suggest caution in using transmitters because of their potential negative effects, particularly during the first few days after hatching.
Design of reactive extraction systems for bioproduct recovery

Liquid-liquid extraction, combined with chemical reaction, can improve overall yields of product. Reactive extraction is an alternative for separations in bioprocessing, for example, for the production of carboxylic acids such as lactic or citric acid, alcohols such as ethanol, or antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalosporin or streptomycin. A method for the design of reactive extraction cascades was used for the recovery of Penicillin G and for lactic acid from aqueous mixtures using mixtures of organic solvents with reactive amines as extractants. Effects of such variables as residence time, flow rates, pH, number of stages and amine concentration are quantified. Designs capable of essentially complete recovery are reported.
Option volume and volatility response to scheduled economic news releases

In this article, we examine the impact of 21 different types of scheduled macroeconomic news announcements on S&P 100 stock-index option volume and implied volatility. We find that there is a 2-h delay after the announcement before volume increases. However, there is an immediate increase in volatility, which slowly dissipates over several hours. Further analysis shows that most of the high volume and volatility after announcements come from the announcements that are considered bad news. That is, bad news creates high volatility and high volume, whereas good news elicits lower volume and is not associated with higher volatility. These results are not consistent with the predictions of any one model. We also find that the announcements that cause the largest reaction in the equity option market are Consumer Credit, Consumer Spending, Factory Inventories, NAPM, and Non-Farm Payrolls. Six other announcements elicit a mild response. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 23:315–345, 2003
Bilateral thalamic stroke transiently reduces arousals and NREM sleep instability

The vascularization of the human thalami is supplied by many perforating arteries, which exhibit complex distribution and many possible individual variations. One rare variant is the artery of Percheron that supplies the paramedian thalami bilaterally. Its ictal occlusion may result in a symmetric paramedian infarction, which generally leads to impairment of consciousness associated with hypersomnia. Our aim is to describe in detail sleep-wake schedules, sleep structure and microstructure in a 68-year-old patient with occlusion of Percheron's artery. EEG monitoring, performed 24 h after the onset of symptoms, showed severe disruption of the sleep-wake cycle, with episodes of sleep and wakefulness recurring irregularly during day and night. Thalamic nuclei are part of the human arousal system; medial thalamic nuclei play a pivotal role in sleep regulation at different levels. A diagnosis of paramedian thalamic infarction should be considered in patients who present with recurrent episodes of unresponsiveness.
Hybrid discrete-continuous fluid-flow simulation

The fluid-flow paradigm is an alternative approach to the traditional queueing paradigm, where workload movement in a network is described in terms of a fluid metaphor rather than the familiar customer metaphor. Stochastic fluid network models can considerably speed up the simulation of complex flow networks, such as high-speed packet-based telecommunications networks, where traditional queueing-based simulation routinely gives rise to enormous numbers of events. Furthermore, they are also amenable to fast, nonparametric, and unbiased estimation (unlike traditional queueing) of IPA (Infinitesimal Perturbation Analysis) gradients (derivatives of performance measures with respect to various parameters), which may be used to make decisions on network design, replenishment, management or control. This paper outlines the design of a fluid-oriented hybrid simulator admitting both packet flows and fluid flows. It focuses on the fluid processing design and on efficiency issues.
Gaseous hydrogen embrittlement of steel - the rate controlling process

A simple model has been advanced relating Stage II crack growth rates to adsorption kinetics. Crack growth kinetics are related to a critical volume concentration, c* (m/sup -3/), through which the crack advances once this concentration is attained. The shift in critical temperatures, T/sub m/ and T/sub c/, for the lower strength steel is attributed to an increase in desporption kinetics resulting from the effect of plastic strain at the crack tip. The difference in crack growth rates for the two different steels at the same pressure and temperature (in the low T region) is logically attributed to different critical concentrations, c*. The critical concentration, c*, is greater for the lower strength steel.
Amelioration of mercuric chloride-induced acute renal failure by dithiothreitol.

Abstract Experiments were conducted to determine if administration of the sulfhydryl reducing agent and metal chelator dithiothreitol (31 mg/kg body wt) alters the development of renal dysfunction in the first 3 hr after injection of mercuric chloride (3 mg/kg). Mercuric chloride alone resulted in elevation of urine flow rate and fractional excretion of solutes within 30 min of injection. In animals injected with dithiothreitol 60 min after mercuric chloride, urine flow rate and fractional excretion of solutes were reduced within 30 min to values intermediate between control and mercuric chloridetreated rats. Neither the injection of mercuric chloride alone nor when followed by dithiothreitol resulted in changes in mean arterial blood pressure or glomerular filtration rate. In addition, dithiothreitol did not reduce urine flow rate or fractional excretion of solutes when these parameters were elevated during extracellular fluid volume expansion. Measurement of mercury in organs of those rats injected with mercuric chloride alone or prior to dithiothreitol revealed no alteration in organ distribution. The renal cortex contained the highest concentrations of mercury, and these concentrations were comparable in both groups of rats. These studies demonstrate that dithiothreitol can ameliorate the renal toxicity of mercury and suggest that this effect is mediated through an intrarenal site of action.
Awakening effects of simulated sonic booms and aircraft noise on men and women

Abstract In the course of several studies, 22 male and female subjects, ranging in age from 5–75 years, have been stimulated while asleep by simulated sonic booms (ranging in intensity from 0·6 to 5·0 lb/ft2 (239·5 N/m2), as if measured out of doors at ground level) and by indoor recordings of subsonic jet flyover noise (ranging in intensity from 101 to 119 PNdB, as if measured out of doors). The summarized results of these studies suggest that (i) children (5–8 years of age) are uniformly unaffected by noise during sleep; (ii) older subjects are more sensitive to noise than younger subjects; (iii) women are more sensitive to noise during sleep than are men; (iv) within an age group, individuals may vary widely with respect to their relative sensitivities to noise during sleep; and (v) the frequency of behavioral awakening is a function of the intensity of both the simulated sonic booms and the subsonic jet flyover noise.
Computer graphics for half-tone three-dimensional object images

Abstract A system is described for displaying studio-quality television images of objects described by a set of closed polyhedra. The objects are defined by a series of opaque planar surfaces which may obscure and intersect each other. The image description lists are passed through a scan-conversion, hidden surface removal and shading process and are converted to a real-time television signal. Display occurs through a normal T.V. system. Resolution is 512 lines by 512 dots with a color definition of 15 bits (over 32,000 colors). Generation of the display list is through an interactive language based on a tablet input and three-dimensional rotation of the boundary polygon. Color definition is through an electronic ‘palette,’ also interactively. The system incorporates shading of the surfaces based upon the angle of the normal to the surface to the observer. The scan display system is resident on an 8K 16-bit minicomputer which accesses a hybrid rotation array.
Trends in Hospital Ownership Type and Capacity A Decomposition Analysis

This article provides evidence of the growing similarity in capacity of for-profit and nonprofit hospitals in the United States. Between 1960 and 2000, the typical nonprofit hospital shrank from be...
Numerical analysis of anisotropic rotational shells subjected to nonsymmetric loads

Abstract Through the use of an integral transform, the present paper extends the applicability of the multisegment numerical integration technique to include the solution of general macroscopically anisotropic multilayered shells of revolution. It is found that compared with orthotropic shells, material anisotropy induces a doubling in the number of transformed fundamental equations characterizing the static response. Employing the transform together with the multisegment integration technique and several concepts from the direct stiffness method of structural analysis, procedures are developed which can handle branched anisotropic multilayered shells of revolution in a more effective manner than was previously possible. Based on the procedures outlined in the paper, numerical studies are presented which show the effect of segment size on the solution accuracy and the effects of material anisotropy on selected shell configurations.
The Development of a Precooked, Frozen, Egg-Based Pizza

Abstract A precooked, frozen egg-based pizza was developed to evaluate 12 crust formulations consisting of 70 to 85% egg albumen; various texture-improving ingredients such as wheat flour, corn oil, milk solids, sodium caseinate, and sweet dairy whey, or heavy white sauce; and Italian seasonings. Acceptability was tested with objective measurements including moisture loss and shear values and subjective measurements such as sensory evaluation. Results of the objective tests showed that the inclusion of 13.3% wheat flour with or without 5% corn oil minimized moisture loss without the addition of moisture-holding additives such as xanthan gum or sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). Shear values of flour-containing albumen formulations were greater than those of other egg-based formulations. Taste panelists preferred the albumen-flour crusts over other egg bases because they were texturally more like conventional, flour-based pizza crusts. Sensory evaluation with both semi-trained and consumer panelists rated the egg pizzas as good as or better than commercially available, frozen, flour-based cheese pizzas.
Mathematical Connections and Their Relationship to Mathematics Knowledge for Teaching Geometry

Effective competition in a rapidly growing global economy places demands on a society to produce individuals capable of higher-order critical thinking, creative problem solving, connection making, and innovation. We must look to our teacher education programs to help prospective middle grades teachers build the mathematical habits of mind that promote a conceptually indexed, broad-based foundation of mathematics knowledge for teaching which encompasses the establishment and strengthening of mathematical connections. The purpose of this concurrent exploratory mixed methods study was to examine prospective middle grades teachers' mathematics knowledge for teaching geometry and the connections made while completing open and closed card sort tasks meant to probe mathematical connections. Although prospective middle grades teachers' mathematics knowledge for teaching geometry was below average, they were able to make over 280 mathematical connections during the card sort tasks. Curricular connections made had a statistically significant positive impact on mathematics knowledge for teaching geometry.
Alcohol oxidation with dioxygen mediated by oxotitanium porphyrin and related transition metal complexes

Oxotitanium porphyrin (TTP)Ti=O and related transition metal complexes were shown to catalyze the oxidation of alcohols using dioxygen as the oxidant. Vicinal diols were cleaved to carbonyl compounds in the presence of catalytic amounts of (TTP)Ti=O, (TTP)V=O or (Saldach)V=O. α-Hydroxy ketones were oxidized to α-diketones with (TTP)Ti=O. Benzyl alcohol was converted to benzaldehyde in modest to high yields by a number of high valent transition metal complexes. Reaction pathways for the transformations mediated by (TTP)Ti=O are discussed. Formation of diolato and enediolato complexes is believed to be the key step in the diol cleavage and α-hydroxy ketone oxidation, respectively.
Stability of the Wabash River fish assemblages from 1974 to 1998

SUMMARY 1. We measured temporal variability of the fish assemblage in the Wabash River using a 25-year electrofishing dataset through a combination of a time-lag analysis and multivariate analysis. 2. The fish assemblage had substantial year-to-year variation, but the overall abundance pattern did not change. Based on time-lag analyses and ordinations, there was only weak predictable directional change at individual sites. At the scale of the entire reach, however, the overall combined data had a statistically significant directionality with the time-lag analysis. 3. These results support the hypothesis that the middle Wabash River stream fish assemblage has undergone change over a time period of 25 years, although at the scale of individual sites this change was not detectable.
Prosthetic liners for lower limb amputees: A review of the literature

Prosthetic liners exist to improve amputee safety and comfort by adding a cushioning layer between the residual limb and the prosthetic socket. Many choices in liner technology are available, and clinicians often rely on personal intuition and experience to choose which liners are appropriate for which patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the literature to find what scientific evidence exists to inform prescription practices. ‘Prosthetic liner’ was used as a search term in the Web of Science and PubMed research databases. Fourteen scientific articles met the eligibility criteria and are discussed in this review. The results of this review suggest that there is little scientific evidence to inform prosthetic liner prescription practices. Liner material properties have been well-studied, but their influence on in vivo performance is not well understood. Understanding liner effect on function would be an area of great usefulness.
Treatment options for chronic myeloid leukemia.

Introduction : The bcr-abl tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the cornerstone treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, there are many topics related to therapy that remain debated. Areas covered : The aim of this paper is to give the reader a comprehensive review of how to treat CML at diagnosis, how to monitor the disease and a brief read of special populations and case scenarios. It describes the first-line (imatinib) and second-line (nilotinib and dasatinib) TKIs currently used for the treatment of CML, including landmark studies proving their efficacy, side effect profile, dosage and use in special populations. It also reviews the current guidelines regarding treatment and monitoring of the disease while on TKIs, along with an overview of treatment in advanced stages, the role of allogeneic stem cell transplantation and investigational drugs. Expert opinion : Although imatinib represented a mayor therapeutic advancement over conventional chemotherapy, second-generation TKIs offer high...
May the linewidth be much narrower than transition probabilities

Summary form only given. Weisskopf-Wigner theory of radiative and collisional broadening gives for the linewidth /spl Gamma/ (HWHM): /spl Gamma//spl ges/(w/sub 1/+w/sub 2/)/2. Here w/sub 1/, w/sub 2/ are the decay probabilities for the levels 1,2. The easiest (albeit not quite rigorous) way to memorize (1) is to assume that the amplitudes c/sub 1/(t), c/sub 2/(t) of states 1 and 2 are decaying as exp(-w/sub 1/t/2), exp(-w/sub 2/t/2), and thus /spl rho//sub 21/= goes as exp(-/spl Gamma/t/2) with /spl Gamma/=(w/sub 1/+w/sub 2/)/2. Addition of any collisional phase shifts between levels 1 and 2 can only increase /spl Gamma/. This work answer the following question. Without assumption of any particular model of physical system, what are the ultimate limitations that follow from the non-negativity condition?.
Effects of Cyclopropane and of Hypoxia on Transmembrane Potentials of Atrial, Ventricular and Purkinje Fibers

The effects of cyclopropane (6 to 8 vol% in Tyrode solution) and of hypoxia, on the transmembrane potentials of atrial, ventricular and Purkinje fibers of the dog heart, were studied. Action potentials were recorded during perfusion with solution equilibrated with 95% O2, and 5% CO2 (control-Tyrode); during cyclopropane-Tyrode perfusion and during perfusion with solution in which nitrogen replaced cyclopropane (nitrogen-Tyrode). Changes in transmembrane potential observed during cyclopropane-Tyrode treatment were considered to be due to an action of cyclopropane only if they recovered or failed to appear during nitrogen-Tyrode perfusion. By interpretation on this basis it could not be determined that cyclopropane exerted an effect on atrial or ventricular fibers. In Purkinje fibers cyclopropane caused a significant increase in rate of repolarization during the plateau (phase 2) while the rate during the period of rapid repolarization (phase 3) decreased. The time required to repolarize to minus 60 millivo...
Experiencing nearby locations together in time: the role of spatiotemporal contiguity in children's memory for location.

Three studies investigated how experiencing nearby locations together in time influences memory for location. Seven-, 9-, and 11-year-old children and adults learned 20 object locations in a small-scale space. The space was divided into regions by lines or walls. In Study 1, participants learned the locations either region by region or in a random order. Following learning, participants replaced the objects without the aid of the dots marking the locations and the boundaries subdividing the space. They replaced the objects in any order they chose. After experiencing the locations in random orders during learning, only adults underestimated distances between locations belonging to the same group (i.e., region). Conversely, 9- and 11-year-old children and adults who had experienced the locations region by region during learning underestimated these distances. These findings suggest that experiencing nearby locations together in time increases the weight children assign to categorical information in their estimates of location. Results from Studies 2 and 3 in which participants learned the locations region by region and then replaced the objects region by region (Study 2) or in a random order (Study 3) were similar, highlighting the importance of spatiotemporal cues in memory for location.
Wound healing of skin incisions produced by ultrasonically vibrating knife, scalpel, electrosurgery, and carbon dioxide laser.

. An ultrasonically vibrating knife has been developed for producing surgical incisions with reduced hemorrhage. Tissue injury and wound healing of porcine cutaneous incisions produced by this instrument, conventional scalpel, electrosurgery, and CO2 laser were compared regarding clinical, histopathologic, and tensile strength differences. Scalpel incisions had the least tissue injury and fastest healing, but the ultrasonically vibrating knife produced less tissue injury and faster healing than electrosurgery or CO2 laser.
Sovereign Wealth Funds: An Assessment

High oil prices and impressive economic performance in emerging markets have led to the accumulation of massive financial assets. These nations have created sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) to manage their growing assets. SWFs have provided significant liquidity to American and European financial institutions. The rise of SWFs in number and size has raised concern about their objectives and strategies. This study examines the role these state-owned funds play in the global markets and the efforts to regulate their activities. I argue that capital exporting and importing nations share common interests and reciprocal responsibility in ensuring global financial prosperity. Policy Implications • Sovereign wealth funds are currently important players in the international financial system and are projected to become even more influential in the future. • Sovereign wealth funds investments are driven more by commercial interests and less by political objectives. • The interests of capital exporting and capital importing nations are not mutually exclusive. Rather, both seek economic prosperity and political stability. • Too much regulation of sovereign wealth funds’ activities is likely to weaken cross-border trade and investment. • Sovereign wealth funds should gain the confidence of host countries by accepting a high level of transparency.
A Longitudinal Assessment of an Initial Cohort in a Psychology Learning Community

Discipline-based learning communities have become a popular strategy for improving student performance and satisfaction. This article describes the goals and features of a university-based, first-year psychology learning community (PLC) implemented in Fall 2003. We also report the results of a longitudinal assessment of the impact of the PLC on student retention and progression, academic performance, cocurricular involvement, and satisfaction with the major. Finally, we discuss the benefits and challenges of implementing a PLC.
Invited Commentary: Residential Segregation and Health—The Complexity of Modeling Separate Social Contexts

When researching racial disparities in health, residential segregation cannot be ignored. Because of segregation, contextual differences by race are so pronounced that ignoring them may lead to mis-estimating the effect of individual-level factors. However, given the stark racial separation of social contexts, researching how residential segregation and neighborhood inequality contribute to racial health disparities remains methodologically challenging. Estimating the contribution of neighborhood effects to health disparities would require overlap in the racial distributions of neighborhood environment, for example, in the distributions of neighborhood poverty. Because of segregation, though, the extent of such overlap is extremely restricted. Previous analyses of the 2000 US Census found, on average, only a 24% overlap between the distribution of neighborhood poverty for black children and that for white children in metropolitan areas. Propensity score methods may be 1 useful tool for addressing limited overlap or exchangeability. However, as shown by their application to the segregation and health relation, their use should be informed by a sound conceptualization of the scale of the social exposure of interest, the hypothesized pathways between the exposure and the health outcome, and possible unmeasured confounders.
Bone Mineral Density in Estrogen-Deficient Young Women

Context: Osteoporosis primarily affects postmenopausal women. However, young women with estrogen deficiency also are at increased risk for low bone density. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess bone density and associated risk factors for reduced bone density in young, estrogen-deficient women using primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) as the disease model. Design and Setting: We conducted a cross-sectional study at a tertiary care research center. Participants: We studied women with POI (n = 442), concurrent controls (n = 70), and matched controls from NHANES III (n = 353). Primary Outcome Measure: We measured bone mineral density (BMD) using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Results: Patients on average had 2–3% lower BMD at L1–L4, femoral neck, and total hip (P < 0.01 at all sites). The modifiable risk factors for BMD below the expected range for age (Z-score <−2) were: more than 1-yr delay in diagnosis of estrogen deficiency (P = 0.018), low (<32 ng/ml) vitamin D levels (P = 0.002), estrogen replacement nonadherence (P = 0.002), low calcium intake (P = 0.005), and lack of exercise (P = 0.005). As compared to Caucasians, African-American and Asian women with POI were 3.18 and 4.34 times more likely, respectively, to have Z-scores below −2 (P = < 0.0001 for both). Race was an overall risk factor, but on regression modeling, not an independent predictor of low bone density. Conclusions: Women with POI have lower bone density compared to regularly menstruating women. Compared to Caucasians, minority women with estrogen deficiency are more likely to have BMD below the expected range for age. This racial disparity appears to be related to a combined effect of several modifiable risk factors. Delay in diagnosis of POI also contributes to reduced bone density by delaying proper therapy.
Treatment of chronic vomiting and extreme emaciation by an aversive stimulus: case study.

Electric shock was administered to a severely retarded adolescent who weighed only 45 lb. and whose survival was in question. He was shocked over a period of 7 wk. whenever he attempted to vomit. The vomiting response was practically eliminated and remarkable weight gain occurred during the treatment phase and during the 3-mo. follow-up period.
Effect of morphology and degree of crystallinity on the infrared absorption spectra of linear polyethylene

The infrared absorption spectra of selected crystalline and noncrystalline bands were studied in bulk-crystallized specimens of linear polyethylene which encompassed the extremely wide density range of 0.92–0.99 g./cm.3. The analysis of the data obtained at room temperature yield degrees of crystallinity by infrared methods which are in very good accord with the values deduced from the density measurements. Studies of the infrared spectra as a function of temperature give fusion curves which are in agreement with those obtained by thermodynamic methods. However, in order to obtain these latter results cognizance must be taken of the large negative temperature coefficient of the specific extinction coefficients of the crystalline bands from room temperature to the melting point. The necessary data to account for this phenomena were obtained from studies of the spectra of the n-paraffin, C94H190, where molecular crystals are formed. Analysis of the two gauche bands, at 1352 and 1303 cm.−1, which are assigned to the noncrystalline regions demonstrate that for bulk-crystallized samples of lowest densities the intensity ratio at room temperature is identical to that expected from the pure melt at this temperature. The conclusion is thus reached that the noncrystalline regions in these cases and the pure melt are structurally very similar. For samples of higher density, where the crystallite size is comparable to the extended chain length, the intensity ratio of the two gauche bands is altered. This change could reflect a change in the sequential distribution of gauche bonds. This intensity ratio for crystals formed from dilute solution is very similar to that for the high-density bulk-crystallized material and indicates a similarity in structure of the noncrystalline regions in the two cases.
XPS study of metal/polymer interaction: Evaporated aluminum on polyvinyl alcohol polymer

The interaction between in situ evaporated aluminum and plyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer at 300 K was studied by XPS. The aluminum condenses on the PVA surface by a Volmer–Weber (clustering) mechanism; it takes about a 3.7 monolayer deposition to nucleate clusters sufficiently large to exhibit core binding energies characteristic of bulk metal. Changes in the lineshapes of the C 1s and O 1s peaks and the appearance of a shifted peak in the Al 2p region were interpreted in terms of Al interactions with the surface alcoholic group HCOH, resulting in the formation of an interfacial organometallic complex exhibiting a stoichiometry of 1:1:1.5 for Al, C and O. Polar angle-resolved XPS measurements and differences in the attenuation factors of the signals from the complex show that the Al is on top and is closer to the oxygen atoms.
Associations of serum insulin-like growth factor-I and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 levels with biomarker-calibrated protein, dairy product and milk intake in the Women's Health Initiative

It is well established that protein-energy malnutrition decreases serum insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I levels, and supplementation of 30 g of whey protein daily has been shown to increase serum IGF-I levels by 8 % after 2 years in a clinical trial. Cohort studies provide the opportunity to assess associations between dietary protein intake and IGF axis protein levels under more typical eating conditions. In the present study, we assessed the associations of circulating IGF axis protein levels (ELISA, Diagnostic Systems Laboratories) with total biomarker-calibrated protein intake, as well as with dairy product and milk intake, among postmenopausal women enrolled in the Women's Health Initiative (n 747). Analyses were carried out using multivariate linear regression models that adjusted for age, BMI, race/ethnicity, education, biomarker-calibrated energy intake, alcohol intake, smoking, physical activity and hormone therapy use. There was a positive association between milk intake and free IGF-I levels. A three-serving increase in milk intake per d (approximately 30 g of protein) was associated with an estimated average 18·6 % higher increase in free IGF-I levels (95 % CI 0·9, 39·3 %). However, total IGF-I and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) levels were not associated with milk consumption and nor were there associations between biomarker-calibrated protein intake, biomarker-calibrated energy intake, and free IGF-I, total IGF-I or IGFBP-3 levels. The findings of the present study carried out in postmenopausal women are consistent with clinical trial data suggesting a specific relationship between milk consumption and serum IGF-I levels, although in the present study this association was only statistically significant for free, but not total, IGF-I or IGFBP-3 levels.
Effective information retrieval using genetic algorithms based matching functions adaptation

Knowledge intensive organizations have vast array of information contained in large document repositories. With the advent of E-commerce and corporate intranets/extranets, these repositories are expected to grow at a fast pace. This explosive growth has led to huge, fragmented, and unstructured document collections. Although it has become easier to collect and store information in document collections, it has become increasingly difficult to retrieve relevant information from these large document collections. This paper addresses the issue of improving retrieval performance (in terms of precision and recall) for retrieval from document collections. There are three important paradigms of research in the area of information retrieval (1R): Probabilistic IR, Knowledge-based IR, and, Artificial Intelligence based techniques like neural networks and symbolic learning. Very few researcher have tried to use evolutionary algorithms like genetic algorithms (GAs). Previous attempts at using GAs have concentrated on modifying document representations or modifying query representations. This work looks at the possibility of applying GAs to adapt various matching functions. It is hoped that such an adaptation of the matching functions in lead to a better retrieval performance than that obtained by using a single matching function. An overall matching function is treated as an weighted combination of scores produced by individual matching functions. This overall score is asked to rank and retrieve documents. Weights associated with individual functions are searched using Genetic Algorithms. The idea is tested on a real document collection called the Cranfield collection. The results look very encouraging.
Delayed adenosine A1 receptor preconditioning in rat myocardium is MAPK dependent but iNOS independent

Adenosine A1 receptor delayed preconditioning (PC) against myocardial infarction has been well described; however, there have been limited investigations of the signaling mechanisms that mediate this phenomenon. In addition, there are multiple conflicting reports on the role of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in mediating A1 late-phase PC. The purpose of this study was to determine the roles of the p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in in vivo delayed A1 receptor PC and whether this protection at the myocyte level is due to upregulation of iNOS. Myocardial infarct size was measured in open-chest anesthetized rats 24 h after treatment with vehicle or the adenosine A1 agonist 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA; 100 microg/kg ip). Additional rats receiving CCPA were pretreated with the p38 inhibitor SB-203580 (1 mg/kg ip) or the MAPK/ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor PD-098059 (0.5 mg/kg ip). At 24 h after CCPA administration, a group of animals was given the iNOS inhibitor 1400 W 10 min before ischemia. Treatment with CCPA reduced infarct size from 48 +/- 2 to 28 +/- 2% of the area at risk, an effect that was blocked by both SB-203580 and PD-098059 but not 1400 W. Ventricular myocytes isolated 24 h after CCPA injection exhibited significantly reduced oxidative stress during H2O2 exposure compared with myocytes from vehicle-injected animals, and this effect was not blocked by the iNOS inhibitor 1400 W. Western blot analysis of whole heart and cardiac myocyte protein samples revealed no expression of iNOS 6 or 24 h after CCPA treatment. These results indicate that adenosine A1 receptor delayed PC in rats is mediated by MAPK-dependent mechanisms, but this phenomenon is not associated with the early or late expression of iNOS.
Design and experimental implementation of a compliant hybrid zero dynamics controller for walking on MABEL

This paper extends the method of virtual constraints and hybrid zero dynamics, developed for rigid robots with a single degree of underactuation, to MABEL, a planar biped with a novel compliant transmission. A time-invariant feedback controller is designed for realizing exponentially stable waking gaits in such a way that the closed-loop system preserves the natural compliance of the system, and therefore the energetic benefits of springs. This is accomplished by incorporating the compliance into the hybrid zero dynamics. The compliant-hybrid-zero-dynamics-based controller is implemented experimentally and shown to realize stable walking gaits which make use of the compliance to store and return energy to the gait.
ORIGIN OF REPRODUCTIVE ISOLATION IN THE ABSENCE OF APPARENT GENIC DIFFERENTIATION IN A GEOGRAPHIC ISOLATE OF DROSOPHILA PSEUDOOBSCURA

F1 males obtained from the cross of D. pseudoobscura females from Bogota (Colombia) x males of this species from mainland, i.e. populations from various locations in the United States and from Guatemala, are sterile. This sterility is due to genes located on the X chromosome and the autosomes; the Y chromosome is not involved. The percentage of sterile males in backcrosses can be explained by assuming an interaction between two loci on the Bogota X chromosome and probably two loci, one each on two of the mainland autosomes. The role of founder events, inbreeding and geographic isolation in the development of reproductive isolation and the magnitude of gene differences responsible for the origin of reproductive isolation is discussed. It is concluded that founder events, inbreeding and geographic isolation play a major role in the development of reproductive isolation and that major adaptive incorporation of new alleles at a large number of structural loci is not necessary for the origin of reproductive isolation.
A NEW SPECIES OF ANSOMYS (RODENTIA, APLODONTIDAE) FROM THE LATE OLIGOCENE (LATEST WHITNEYAN-EARLIEST ARIKAREEAN) OF SOUTH DAKOTA

Hopkins (2004) recently reviewed the species of Ansomys Qiu (1987). She recognized only two species from North America, A. nexodens (Korth, 1992) from the Orellan (early Oligocene) of Montana, and A. hepburnensis Hopkins (2004) from the Barstovian (middle Miocene), also of Montana. This left a considerable time gap between the known record of North American species, which led her to suggest a series of migration events between Eurasia and North America throughout the Tertiary. Recently, Kelly and Korth (2005) named an additional species of Ansomys, A. nevadensis from the Hemingfordian (early Miocene) of Nevada, thus partially filling the time gap between the previously described North American species. Kelly and Korth (2005), however, noted that A. nevadensis was morphologically closer to the Asian middle Miocene species A. orientalis Qiu (1987) rather than the other North American species. The fossil specimens described below are from the latest Whitneyan or earliest Arikareean of South Dakota (late Oligocene), once again, filling another time gap in the North American record of Ansomys. They also represent the easternmost occurrence of the genus in North America. Dental terminology used follows that of Wood and Wilson (1936) with modifications of Rensberger (1975). All specimens cited are part of the research collections at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History (CM).
Molecular Testing in Colorectal Cancer

Currently, molecular testing in colorectal cancer (CRC) is aimed at detecting Lynch syndrome and predicting response to anti–epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapies. However, CRC is a complex disease, with at least 3 molecular pathways of carcinogenesis. The importance of the EGFR signaling pathway in colorectal carcinogenesis is underscored by the availability of anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of some metastatic CRCs. Potentially, mutations in any of the genes in the EGFR signaling pathway may be associated with prognosis and may predict response to anti-EGFR or other targeted therapies. Although not currently the standard of care, molecular testing of CRCs is expanding to include mutational analysis of the genes in the EGFR pathway, in addition to more widely performed tests for identifying cancers with high microsatellite instability. Multiplex molecular prognostic panels for therapeutic decision making in stage II CRCs also represent expanding use of molecular testing for this common cancer. Upon completion of this activity you will be able to: The ASCP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The ASCP designates this journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™ per article. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. This activity qualifies as an American Board of Pathology Maintenance of Certification Part II Self-Assessment Module. The authors of this article and the planning committee members and staff have no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose. Questions appear on p 1008. Exam is located at [www.ascp.org/ajcpcme][1]. [1]: http://www.ascp.org/ajcpcme
Use of External Materials in the Evaluation of a PCR-Based Candidate Molecular Test (CMT) for M tuberculosis Identification (MTI) and Rifampin Resistance (RR)

Validation of CMT (GeneXpert; Cepheid Diagnostics; Sunnyvale, CA) for MTI and RR is difficult given scarcity of positive patient specimens. Simulated patient samples containing MT, M gordonae (MG) and M avium complex (MAC) were constructed from ATCC Mycobacterium (MB) cell lines (CLs) 25177, 14470 and 15769 (Manassas, VA) and killed RR (x2) and wild type (WT) cellular controls (MMQC; …
Development of planar fixed inclinometer based on high-precision dual-axis tilt sensor

Planar fixed inclinometer is developed based on high-precision dual-axis tilt sensor.It can measure the change of dip angles in two mutually perpendicular directions simultaneously.The gathered data are transmitted to computer for farther processing.It can be widely used in the monitoring of dams and projects.
Erythropoietin activates Raf1 by an Shc-independent pathway in CTLL-EPO-R cells.

Stimulation of the erythropoietin receptor (EPO-R) or the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2-R) by their respective ligands has been reported to activate tyrosine phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic protein, Shc. We have recently characterized a cell line, CTLL-EPO-R, that contains functional cell-surface receptors for both EPO and IL-2. Although stimulation with IL-2 or IL-15 resulted in the rapid, dose-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of Shc, stimulation with EPO failed to activate Shc. EPO, IL-2, and IL-15 activated the tyrosine phosphorylation of the adaptor protein, Shp2, and the association of Shp2/Grb2/cytokine receptor complexes. In addition, EPO, IL-2, and IL-15 activated Raf1 and ERK2, demonstrating that the Raf1/MEK/MAP kinase pathway was activated. These results indicate that multiple biochemical pathways are capable of conferring a mitogenic signal in CTLL-EPO-R. EPO can activate the Raf1/MEK/ MAP kinase pathway via Shc-dependent or Shc-independent pathways, and Shc activation is not required for EPO-dependent cell growth in CTLL-EPO-R.
Attribute-Based Partial Geo-Replication System

Existing partial geo-replication systems do not always provide optimal cost or latency, because their replication decisions are based on statically established data access popularity metrics, regardless of the application types. We demonstrate that additional reduction in cost and latency can be achieved by 1) using the right object attributes for making replication decisions for each type of application, 2) using multi-attribute-based replications, and 3) combining the popularity-based but reactive approach with the more random but proactive approach to data replication. Toward this end, we propose Acorn, an Attribute-based COntinuous partial geo-ReplicatioN system, and its prototype implementation based on Apache Cassandra. Experiments with two types of global-scale, data-sharing applications demonstrate up to 54% and 90% cost overhead reduction over existing systems or 38% and 91% latency overhead reduction.
High Rates of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection in Homeless Women: Informing Public Health Strategies.

Abstract Background: Homeless and unstably housed women living in an urban setting are at risk for sexually transmitted diseases, yet the seroprevalence and correlates of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) specific to impoverished women are poorly understood. Materials and Methods: Between April and October 2010, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of sociodemographic, structural, and behavioral factors associated with prevalent HSV-2 infection (recent and historical infections) within a community-recruited cohort of homeless and unstably housed women. Logistic regression modeling was used to identify independent sociobehavioral correlates of HSV-2 infection. Results: Among 213 women (114 HIV positive and 99 HIV negative), the median age was 49, 48% were African American, and 63% had completed high school. HSV-2 seroprevalence was 88%, and only 17% of infected women were aware of their infection. In adjusted analysis, odds of HSV-2 infection were significantly higher for those reporting at-risk drink...