cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does menstrual cycle phase affect lung diffusion capacity during exercise

Resting lung diffusing capacity (DLCO) decreases during the early and late-follicular phases of the menstrual cycle presumably due to capillary blood volume (VC) changes; however, it is not known if these differences exist during exercise. We hypothesized that DLCO would increase during the mid-luteal phase of the menstrual cycle due to increases in VC. Eight normally menstruating females (21.4±0.7 yrs) were studied. Subjects completed a discontinuous treadmill V˙O2max test during the early-follicular (EF), late-follicular (LF), and mid-luteal (ML) phases of the menstrual cycle. Metabolic measurements were made from a breath-by-breath automated cart, and DLCO via the single-breath exhalation technique during exercise. During exercise, DLCO was lesser during EF compared to ML at 90% and 100%V˙O2max (p<0.05) (90%: 37.8±3.7 EF vs 41.6±4.0 ML, 100%: 37.7±3.7 EF vs 42.6±4.3 ML mL/mmHg/min). VC was significantly greater during the ML phase when compared to the EF at 80%, 90%, and 100%V˙O2max. These results demonstrate DLCO and VC are influenced by the menstrual cycle during heavy exercise.
Optimal design of irradiance redistribution guides for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's high-flux solar furnace

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has developed and operates the high-flux solar furnace (HFSF), a 10-kW solar concentrator used for research in solar energy applications. An application of ongoing interest is the heat-bonding of metallic foils to ceramic substrates, a process requiring a highly uniform irradiance distribution over a 10 by 10-cm target area, as well as a mean irradiance of at least 10 W/cm 2 , and a working distance of at least 10-cm from the optics. Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) and NREL have developed designs for two reflective irradiance redistribtuion guides (IRGs) for use in conjunction with the HFSF, which provide significantly enhanced irradiance uniformity while exceeding the mean-irradiance and working-distance requirements. Irradiance- uniformity levels of 7.2% and 3.1% root-mean-square (RMS) deviation over the target area were achieved by the two IRG designs. The designs were generated using SAICs nonimaging concentrator synthesis code, which employs a global optimization procedure. The HFSF was modeled by means of an optical ray set produced by NREL's solar furnace code. The IRG designs are novel in that they feature re-entrant optics combined with the intentional use of ray paths having different nubmers of multiple reflections within a single reflective optical component in order to achieve the desired irradiance distribution.
High-speed motion with limited sensing range in a poisson forest

Inspired by birds flying in dense forests, we consider the problem of motion planning with limited sensing range in a planar forest environment, where the locations of the disc-shaped trees are generated by a homogeneous Poisson process. First, we show that, under some minimal technical assumptions on the dynamics of the robot, the existence of infinite collision-free trajectories exhibits a phase transition with increasing intensity of the Poisson obstacle generation process. We show that the critical threshold is non-trivial, i.e., a finite non-zero number. Second, we propose a novel planning algorithm, based on state lattices, that can navigate the robot with limited sensing range. We show that the probability that the planner fails to traverse an large environment converges to zero exponentially fast with increasing sensing range.
The boundaryless career: a competency- based perspective

This paper proposes a competency-based view of careers, derived from competency-based models of employer firms. The implications for boundaryless careers are explored by reference to changing organizational, occupational and industry community contexts. All of these contexts are seen as likely to promote boundaryless career behaviors. Future research possibilities for each of three career competencies, and for interdependence among the competencies, are briefly examined.
Long-Term Capacity of Plant Mulch to Remediate Trichloroethylene in Groundwater

Passive reactive barriers (PRBs) are commonly used to treat groundwater that is contaminated with chlorinated solvents such as trichloroethylene (TCE). A number of PRBs have been constructed with plant mulch as the reactive medium. The TCE is removed in these barriers through adsorption, biological reductive dechlorination, and abiotic reactions with reduced iron minerals that are formed in the barrier. Generally speaking, adsorption has limited capacity for TCE removal and abiotic dechlorination is dependent on metal sulfides of biogenic origin. Therefore, the long-term performance of these barriers will be controlled by their capacity to support biological activity. Laboratory batch experiments were inoculated with an enrichment culture of dechlorinating microorganisms. Dechlorination of TCE to ethylene was achieved using plant mulch; however, neither water extractable nor organic-solvent extractable components of the mulch could sustain dechlorination of TCE. This indicates that biodegradation of organic wood fibers in the plant cell wall provides electron donors for dechlorination of TCE. Kinetic analysis of the methane production in the batch tests provides supporting evidence that the plant mulch is able to sustain long-term biological activity in a typical barrier constructed with plant tissues. The recognition of the intact plant tissues as a long-term electron donor expands the knowledge about the microbial dechlorination under natural conditions. In addition, the production of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) observed in a column study was used to estimate the life cycle of a full-scale biowall installed at Altus AFB, Oklahoma. Based on a consistent downward trend in DIC concentrations in the effluent and a stable concentration in the influent over time, the mulch in the biowall is expected to support microbial activity for 10 years.
Body size variation in baboons: A reconsideration of ecological determinism

Pope (1983) presented an intriguing argument regarding the covariation of body size in baboons and rainfall. However, a reanalysis of the data indicates that "Principle 2" of the model is not supported.
Why U.S. epilepsy hospital stays rose in 2006.

Summary Objective We observed a substantial increase in age-adjusted hospitalization rates in the United States National Hospital Discharge Survey data from 1996 to 2010. We aimed to assess reasons for this increase. Methods The National Hospital Discharge Survey collected data on a national sample of short-term hospital stays in nonfederal hospitals. We determined epilepsy-related discharge diagnoses by age, gender, and region using weighted analysis, and estimated age-adjusted rates and annual percent changes using regression analysis. We also looked at epilepsy as the principal discharge diagnosis in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project. Results In the United States, on average, nearly 110,000 more admissions were reported each year with epilepsy as the principal discharge diagnosis in 2006–2010 than in 1996–2005, a 2.7-fold increase in hospitalization rates from epilepsy. During this period, there were more hospitalizations with principal discharge diagnosis of epilepsy not otherwise specified, and among older patients. The number of discharges with seizure not otherwise specified dropped dramatically after 2006, and was more evident among pediatric patients. The age-adjusted rates of hospital stays combining discharges with any mention of epilepsy (345.XX) or seizures unspecified (780.39) in seven discharge diagnoses, were similar in 1996–2005 and 2006–2010. Significance We postulate that the excess in hospitalizations with epilepsy as first discharge diagnosis in 2006–2010 in the United States was related to the changes in coding in 2006. Any use of U.S. hospital discharge data with epilepsy-related diagnosis after that date will require further validation. A PowerPoint slide summarizing this article is available for download in the Supporting Information section here.
Viscosities of aluminum-rich Al−Cu liquid alloys

Viscosity data for Al−Cu liquid alloys in the ranges of 0≤C L≤33.1 wt pct Cu and 1173≤T ≤973 K are reviewed. It was found that Andrade's equation can be used to represent the variation of viscosity with temperature for a given composition, but that each of the two parameters in Andrade's equation shows no systematic variation with composition of the liquid-alloys. Consequently, arithmetic averages of the parameters were used and assumed to apply to all compositions in the range 0≤C L ≤33.1 wt pct Cu. Such a procedure implies that the viscosity happens to vary with composition solely because the specific volume varies with composition. In order to establish the predictability of extrapolating such simple behavior, a more complex model was considered. The latter model was recently presented by Kucharski and relates viscosity to the structure and thermodynamics of liquid alloys. Viscosities obtained by interpolating Andrade's equation and Kucharski's model compare closely; furthermore, values obtained by extrapolations to lower temperatures also compare favorably. Finally the simpler model was used to calculate the viscosity of the interdendritic liquid during solidification.
Hyperperfusion encephalopathies: hypertensive encephalopathy and related conditions.

BACKGROUND–Hypertensive encephalopathy (HTE) is a syndrome typified by headache, seizures, and neurologic signs associated with increased systemic blood pressures; edema in the subcortical white matter is seen on imaging studies and is usually reversible, although infarction or hemorrhage may superv
Shapes based trajectory queries for moving objects

An interesting issue in moving objects databases is to find similar trajectories of moving objects. Previous work on this topic focuses on movement patterns (trajectories with time dimension) of moving objects, rather than spatial shapes (trajectories without time dimension) of their trajectories. In this paper we propose a simple and effective way to compare spatial shapes of moving object trajectories. We introduce a new distance function based on ``one way distance'' (OWD). Algorithms for evaluating OWD in both continuous (piece wise linear) and discrete (grid representation) cases are developed. An index structure for OWD in grid representation, which guarantees no false dismissals, is also given to improve the efficiency of similarity search. Empirical studies show that OWD out-performs existent methods not only in precision, but also in efficiency. And the results of OWD in continuous case can be approximated by discrete case efficiently.
Generation of tunable radiation using an underdense ionization front

It is shown that when a light pulse is incident upon an underdense relativistic ionization front, the light pulse can be simultaneously upshifted in frequency and compressed in duration. The reflection and transmission coefficients are examined. Examples for both overdense and underdense fronts are given to show that a relativistic ionization front can generate tunable radiation from millimeter to ultraviolet wavelengths.
Norepinephrine and Phenylephrine Effects on Right Ventricular Function in Experimental Canine Pulmonary Embolism

In a canine model of pulmonary embolism (PE) produced by infusion of autologous blood clots, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) decreased to 73 ± 4 mm Hg while cardiac output (CO) decreased to less than 50 percent of baseline. Intravenous infusion of phenylephrine (PHEN) and norepinephrine (NE) restored MAP to somewhat above baseline values. However, only NE restored CO to control levels. The right ventricular myocardial blood flow increased 15 percent in the PE group with PHEN and 229 percent with NE at equipressor concentrations. The right ventricular myocardial oxygen consumption (RVMVo2) was not significantly different between PE and PE + PHEN while PE + NE increased RVMVO2 by 144 percent to 20.2±1.8 ml/min/100 g. The RV output was not adequately restored with PE, but when RV contractility was augmented with NE, RV output was restored to baseline. Right ventricular minute work increased 100 percent with NE and was maintained with a 100 percent increase in oxygen consumption. Calculated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was decreased during PE by 36 percent with PE + PHEN while PVR in NE-treated dogs decreased by 59 percent. In NE-treated animals, systemic vascular resistance (SVR) was restored to control levels while in PHEN-treated animals SVR increased about 75 percent from baseline. We conclude that the salutary effects of NE on RV output are due to both α and β receptor stimulation, which increased contractility, RVMBF, and RVMVo2, and decreased both PVR and SVR. In the PHEN-treated dogs, our indices of minute-work, RVMRF, and RVMVo2 suggest that coronary autoregulation was intact; however, there was no apparent benefit to RV output. This study suggests that in the clinical setting of acute PE, the judicious use of NE, rather than PHEN, may be more beneficial in restoring RV function and systemic hemodynamics.
Do Duration of Exposure, Proximity to Electronic Manufacturing Plants, and Involvement in a Lawsuit Affect Chlorinated Solvent Toxicity?

Abstract The author examined the effects of duration of residence, proximity to microchip plants, and being a party in litigation involving neurobehavioral functioning in individuals who had been chronically exposed to trichloroethylene-associated solvents from the environment. The author compared duration of exposure for the 236 residents, all of whom were located in 3 proximity zones in Phoenix, Arizona; some of the individuals had been in the process of solvent-related litigation for fewer than 10 yr, whereas some had been involved for more than 10 yr. The 236 residents were compared with 58 nonclaimants in 3 residential areas within the exposure zones. Neurobehavioral function testing was described in the study that appears prior to this study in this issue.1 Prior to comparisons, test scores were adjusted for age, sex, education level, and other significant factors. Individuals who had been exposed for fewer than 10 yr were not different from individuals who had been exposed for longer periods. Proxi...
Radiopharmaceuticals for assessment of multidrug resistance P-glycoprotein-mediated drug transport activity.

Multidrug resistance (MDR) mediated by overexpression of MDR1 P-glycoprotein (Pgp) is one of the best characterized transporter-mediated barriers to successful chemotherapy in cancer patients. Thus, noninvasive interrogation of Pgp-mediated transport activity in vivo would be beneficial in guiding therapeutic choices. Both small organic medicinals as well as metal complexes characterized as transport substrates for Pgp are amenable to incorporation of PET or SPECT radionuclides and may enable noninvasive imaging of Pgp in cancer patients. Toward this objective, clinically approved agents, exemplified by 99mTc-Sestamibi and 99mTetrofosmin, have already shown promise for the functional evaluation of Pgp-mediated transport activity in human tumors in vivo. In addition, selected agents from an upcoming class of substituted Schiff-base gallium(III) complexes containing an N4O2 donor core in their organic scaffold and capable of generating both SPECT and PET radiopharmaceuticals have also been shown to be promi...
Dual Functions of Transcription Factors, Transforming Growth Factor-β-inducible Early Gene (TIEG)2 and Sp3, Are Mediated by CACCC Element and Sp1 Sites of Human Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) B Gene

Monoamine oxidases (MAO) A and B catalyze the oxidative deamination of many biogenic and dietary amines. Abnormal expression of MAO has been implicated in several psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Human MAO B core promoter (-246 to -99 region) consists of CACCC element flanked by two clusters of overlapping Sp1 sites. Here, we show that cotransfection with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-inducible early gene (TIEG)2 increased MAO B gene expression at promoter, mRNA, protein, and catalytic activity levels in both SH-SY5Y and HepG2 cells. Mutation of the CACCC element increased the MAO B promoter activity, and cotransfection with TIEG2 further increased the promoter activity, suggesting that CACCC was a repressor element. This increase was reduced when the proximal Sp1 overlapping sites was mutated. Similar interactions were found with Sp3. These results showed that TIEG2 and Sp3 were repressors at the CACCC element but were activators at proximal Sp1 overlapping sites of MAO B. Gel-shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that TIEG2 and Sp3 bound directly to CACCC element and the proximal Sp1 sites in both synthetic oligonucleotides and natural MAO B core promoter. TIEG2 had a higher affinity to Sp1 sites than CACCC element, whereas Sp3 had an equal affinity to both elements. Thus, TIEG2 was an activator, but Sp3 had no effect on MAO B gene expression. This study provides new insights into MAO B gene expression and illustrates the complexity of gene regulation.
The Potential Application of Metal Binding Hydro- and Silica-gels in Low-level Radioactive Waste Processing

Within the management of radioactive waste, we sought to consider a new approach radioactive hazardous waste processing in aqueous or similar (low-level waste; LLW) forms LLW and in fact, ‘contaminants of concern’ is often stored as diluted aqueous solutions of radioactive (or non) elements and contained in storage containers. One of the general problems associated with mixed liquid waste is the lack of an efficient, effective, and inexpensive means of processing (separating) its constituents. Two of the objectives in processing solid, radioactive laden liquid LLW are as follows: 1) to separate/extract the radioisotopes from the rest of the mixed constituents, and 2) to produce stable solidified forms encapsulating radioactive elements. Recent R&D in the physical chemistry of gel materials, have identified promising approach to simultaneously achieve the above objectives. That is, by utilizing and manipulating the physicochemical properties of various silica- and polymer-based gels at the nanoscale, we have demonstrated a process by which to specific chemical species are encapsulated.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
A bayesian alternative to the sign test in the presence of ties

Bayesian alternatives to the sign test are proposed which incorporate the number of ties observed. These alternatives arise from different strategies in dealing with the number of ties. One strategy is incorporating the true proportion of ties into the hypotheses of interest. The Bayesian methods are compared to each other and to the typical sign test in a simulation study. Also, the new methods are compared to another version of the sign test proposed by Coakley and Heise (1996). This new version of the sign test was shown to perform especially well in situations where the probability of observing a tie is very high. Although one of the Bayesian methods appears to perform best overall in the simulation study, its performance is not dominating and the easy to use typical sign test generally performs very well.
Theory for moderately large deflections of sandwich shells with dissimilar facings

Abstract This paper presents the differential equations and boundary conditions for sandwich shells with moderately large rotations. The theory includes the bending resistance of the facings, transverse extension and shear deformation of the core. Approximations and simplifications are described.
Multivariate Gene Selection and Testing in Studying the Exposure Effects on a Gene Set

Studying the association between a gene set (e.g., pathway) and exposures using multivariate regression methods is of increasing importance in genomic studies. Such an analysis is often more powerful and interpretable than individual-gene analysis. Since many genes in a gene set are likely not affected by exposures, one is often interested in identifying a subset of genes in the gene set that are affected by exposures. This allows for better understanding of the underlying biological mechanism and for pursuing further biological investigation of these genes. The selected subset of “signal” genes also provides an attractive vehicle for a more powerful test for the association between the gene set and exposures. We propose two computationally simple Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) based variable selection methods: Sparse Outcome Selection (SOS) CCA and step CCA, to jointly select a subset of genes in a gene set that are associated with exposures. Several model selection criteria, such as BIC and the new Correlation Information Criterion (CIC), are proposed and compared. We also develop a global test procedure for testing the exposure effects on the whole gene set, accounting for gene selection. Through simulation studies, we show that the proposed methods improve upon an existing method when the genes are correlated and are more computationally efficient. We apply the proposed methods to the analysis of the Normative Aging DNA methylation Study to examine the effects of airborne particular matter exposures on DNA methylations in a genetic pathway.
Nationwide outcomes of surgical embolectomy for acute pulmonary embolism

Objective The aim of the present study was to review nationwide outcomes of surgical embolectomy for acute pulmonary embolism. Methods Adult patients undergoing surgical embolectomy for acute pulmonary embolism from 1999 to 2008 were identified in the weighted Nationwide Inpatient Sample. The primary endpoint was inpatient mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis incorporating significant univariate predictors ( P Results There were 2709 eligible patients identified as undergoing surgical embolectomy for acute pulmonary embolism during the study period. The mean age was 57.0 ± 16.0 years. Of the patients, 1242 (45.8%) were women. A total of 280 patients (10.3%) had undergone thrombolysis before surgical embolectomy. The overall inpatient mortality rate was 27.2%. On multivariate analysis, an increasing Charlson comorbidity index (odds ratio, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–1.69; P = .003) significantly increased the odds of inpatient mortality. In addition, blacks were more than twofold more likely to die during hospitalization than whites (odds ratio, 2.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.18–4.46; P = .02). Although age, payment type, hospital location (urban versus rural), hospital embolectomy volume, and surgeon embolectomy volume were associated with inpatient mortality on univariate analysis (each P Conclusions This large-cohort analysis of more than 2700 patients demonstrates a nationwide inpatient mortality rate of 27.2% after pulmonary embolectomy. Although patient factors affect mortality, the arena of care appears to have no significant effect on operative outcomes. This suggests that it might be more prudent for centers with qualified surgeons to avoid delays in treatment, rather than transfer care because of a perception of improved outcomes.
Settling of bidispersed small solid particles in a dilute suspension containing gyrotactic micro-organisms

The motivation of this research is to investigate the feasibility of utilizing bioconvection for enhancing mixing in a suspension of small solid particles. This may be important in micro-fluidic applications relevant to biotechnology and medicine, such as analyses of DNA or drugs, screening of patients, and combinatorial synthesis. Traditionally, the mixing of fluids in micro-volumes has been limited to diffusion. Due to the microscopic size of the organisms involved in bioconvection, bioconvective flows are a prospective and novel alternative for micro-fluidic mixing. This paper considers a bidispersed suspension of small solid particles that have different densities and settling velocities in a fluid that contains motile gyrotactic micro-organisms. The particles are assumed to be sufficiently small so that their Brownian diffusion is not negligible. It is found that the number density distribution of solid particles of one type impacts that of particles of the other type as well as that of micro-organisms.
Energy exchange in heterogeneous cumulative mediums induced by nonstationary quantum flux

It is known that energy flux from nonstationary source is able to modulate the energy exchange in the heterogeneous cumulative medium in the quantum optics approximation. This paper presents the results of further investigation of energy exchange problem in the heterogeneous medium with cumulative features. Equation for dynamics of dispersion term is derived and relative contribution of dissipative and dispersion term is estimated. The possibility of the expansion of nonstationary solution of energy exchange equation into basis of corresponding stationary solutions (dissipative structures) is shown. The physical interpretation of obtained results in terms of the dissipative structure variations is given.
Robinson's conjecture on Abelian groups

Let x1,…,xn be elements of a finite abelian group G, having respective orders k1,…,kn such that (x1−1)(x2−1)⋯(xn−1)=0 in Z(G), where n⩽1. We prove that min ki≤n−1 with equalityossible if only if n−1 is prime. If all ki are equal, and not divisible by the cube of a prime, we prove n⩾k1(1+1r) where r is the least prime dividing k1. We also establish an inequality concerning coverings of a set by subsets.
Captive spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) arm-raise to solicit allo-grooming

Old World monkeys solicit allo-grooming from conspecifics. However, there are relatively few studies of allo-grooming among spider monkeys, and descriptions of allo-grooming solicitation among spider monkeys are anecdotal. In this study, eighty-one hours of video, shot over eight weeks, captured 271 allo-grooming bouts among small groups of captive spider monkeys. Six of eight monkeys made heretofore unreported arm-raises that solicited higher than normal rates of allo-grooming. Allo-grooming bout durations following arm-raises also tended to be longer than bouts not preceded by arm-raises. The efficacy of the arm-raise at soliciting allo-grooming suggests spider monkeys are capable of intentional communication.
The postnatal development of the respiratory system of the opossum. I. Light and scanning electron microscopy

The postnatal development of the respiratory system in the opossum has been traced, using 102 specimens divided into 11 groups according to snout-rump length. At birth, the lung is markedly underdeveloped and is represented by a pumitive system of branching airways that end in a number of terminal chambers or sacs. The airways, constituting the conducting portion of the lung, are lined by columnar epithelium that is devoid of cilia and goblet cells. The terminal air chambers contain an extensive capillary bed and are surfaced by squamous epithelium interspersed with scattered cuboidal cells. By the 3 cm stage, bands of smooth muscle have differentiated in relation to the bronchial epithelium and scattered cilia are present in the epithelium of the trachea and bronchi. Air chambers immediately adjecent to established bronchi differentiate further and become incorporated into the bronchial tree and new air chambers develop at the most distal extent of the bronchial system up to the 15.5 cm stage. Numerous spaces lined by squamous epithelium, which represent the first appearance of the arbor alveolaris, appear within the cellular stroma of the lung of the 7 cm opossum. By the 20 cm (juvenile) stage, mature alveoli, containing many vacuolated cells, are present and a thick collagenous lamina has developed between the pleura and the lung parenchyma.
Thermal transients during processing of materials by very high power ultrasonic additive manufacturing

Abstract Dynamic recrystallisation at interfaces has been suggested as the bonding mechanism in the joining of metallic tapes, during very high power ultrasonic additive manufacturing. To understand the reasons for such occurrence of dynamic recrystallization, thermal transients from the interface regions were recorded during processing of aluminum alloy (3003 and 6061 series) and 11 000 copper tapes under similar conditions. Measurements in 3003 Al were also carried out for different processing parameters. Measured peak temperatures were seen to increase with increase in shear strength of the material and ultrasonic vibration amplitude. The observations have been rationalized based on interfacial heating at asperities due to adiabatic plastic deformation.
Illicit markets, weak states and violence: Iraq and Mexico

This article focuses on drug trafficking violence in Mexico and on those elements of the violence in Iraq which are related to competition for the control over smuggling of oil and other largely licit commodities. It suggests that the broader context is critical, while the nature of the commodity—and in particular whether it is prohibited or simply a legal commodity that is stolen and diverted to both domestic and international black markets—is not the major determinant of the level of violence. Both Mexico and Iraq suffer from transitional violence (arrangements for criminal activity which were dominated by the state have broken down), are characterized by anomie and a culture of lawlessness, have a surfeit of specialists in violence along with the ready availability of weapons, and are afflicted by high levels of corruption. In Mexico the violence has centered around the control of drug routes and strategic warehouses on the Mexico–United States border as well as control of local retail markets; in the southern province of Basra in Iraq the violence has centered on control of oil smuggling. While some of the violence has targeted state authorities it also reflects the fragmentation of criminal organizations.
A Modular Fluorescence Intramolecular Energy Transfer Saccharide Sensor

A modular fluorescence intramolecular energy transfer saccharide sensor 2 has been prepared with phenanthrene as the donor and pyrene as the acceptor.
Influence of telopeptide on the morphology and physicomechanical properties of reconstituted collagens.

The morphology and physicomechanical properties of two types of collagen membranes, one of which does not have telopeptides, were compared with small-angle light scattering, rheo-optical, dynamic mechanical, and dynamic rheo-optical techniques. The presence of telopeptides in native collagen allows the formation of larger rod-like superstructures; it renders the membrane more resistant to irreversible deformation yet more responsive to dynamic mechanical perturbation. Telopeptides are also responsible for relaxation at room temperature, and impart more linearly elastic properties to the material as compared to membranes derived from enzyme-treated collagens.
Perceived vulnerability to crime, criminal victimization experience, and television viewing

Survey data were utilized to examine the relationship between television viewing and perceptions of personal vulnerability to crime. The analyses revealed that the strength and direction of such associations were contingent upon: (a) the viewer's predominant modality or source of criminal victimization experience (mediated, interpersonal, or direct); (b) the type of primetime television program viewed (crime‐related or noncrime‐related); and (c) the contextual nature of the perception of personal vulnerability to crime being considered. Discussion of the implications of these findings for future research focused on the relationship between television viewing and social perceptions.
Cytochrome P450 flexibility

Cytochrome P450 refers to a group of enzymes that catalyze the monooxygenation of various organic molecules in the following reaction: \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document} \begin{equation*} \begin{matrix}{\mathrm{RH}}+{\mathrm{O}}\_{2}+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-}+2{\mathrm{H}}^{+}{\rightarrow}\\ {\mathrm{R}}-{\mathrm{OH}}+{\mathrm{H}}\_{2}{\mathrm{O}}.\end{matrix} \end{equation*}\end{document} P450s are best known for their role in drug metabolism and detoxification. Humans have 57 functional P450 genes and 46 pseudogenes (http://drnelson.utmem.edu/human.genecount.html), and several of these, located in liver microsomes, are induced by a variety of foreign organic molecules. Hydroxylation of these substances by P450s renders these relatively insoluble organic compounds more soluble for easier elimination. In addition, P450s participate in the metabolism of sex hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids in mammals (1, 2); ecdysones in insects (3); and terpenes in plants (4). P450s also play an important role in microorganisms in the use of various organic compounds as carbon sources and in the production of important natural products such as antibiotics. P450s range in size from 40 to 50 kDa and contain a single heme group. Oxygen binds to the heme iron where the enzyme catalyzes cleavage of the oxygen O—O bond, leaving behind an iron-linked oxygen atom that provides a potent oxidant. The substrate is held precisely in place such that the correct carbon atom is close to the iron-linked O atom for regio- and stereoselective hydroxylation. In general, those P450s involved in the production of important intermediates such as in steroid metabolism are highly specific. However, many of the drug-metabolizing P450s are not specific and are capable of hydroxylating a variety of diverse and unrelated compounds. Several P450 crystal structures now are known, and it was not too surprising, based on sequence alignments, that the overall fold is maintained in all P450s (Fig. 1). A particularly challenging problem, however, is to understand how …
Anaphylactic reaction during anaesthesia associated with positive intradermal skin test to fentanyl

A 29 year-old female patient suffered vascular collapse which became apparent immediately after general anaesthesia. Resuscitation was prolonged and difficult, and complicated by the need for reoperation. Based on the time history, fentanyl was suspected as the causative agent. Fentanyl allergy was confirmed by skin testing one month later. The case is discussed, and the possible reasons for the delay in appearance of symptoms and signs are considered.
How much control do Latinos and African Americans have of their mutual relations

This article offers a structural interpretation of Black–Latino relations based on critical insights especially from political economy and the work of Pierre Bourdieu. It argues that, socialized to play the roles that correspond to their positions, Blacks and Latinos have limited control of their relations; rather, relations express racial structures giving Whites the upper hand. In this context, Black–Latino relations are relations between two differentially constituted races that, when playing by the script, are often pitted against each other. To gain control of their relations, Blacks and Latinos need to develop awareness of the script they are ruled by and challenge the game of racial domination.
The Inventory Problem with A Non-Symmetric Loss Function

The paper deals with the inventory problem with uncertain demand and a non-symmetric loss function using normal quantile estimation theory The future demand is predicted via Bayesian theory by using data on previous demands. The paper minimizes an inter temporal loss function by choosing ‘new’ orders. The micro approach of this paper begins by specifying why and how can an inter temporal loss function be minimized and thus explains a richer variation of inventory behavior than an production smoothing model.
Volume dependence of the magnetization of YbAl3

Abstract Magnetostriction measurements were performed on YbAl 3 for 4.3 K⩽ T ⩽10.5 K and for magnetic fields up to 4 T. The volume magnetostriction, which is only weakly temperature dependent, is negative and approximately equal to the ordinary magnetostriction. The negative sign of the volume magnetostriction shows the magnetization increases with decreasing volume.
Gamma knife radiosurgery for acromegaly: outcomes after failed transsphenoidal surgery.

OBJECTIVEThis study evaluates the safety and efficacy of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) in patients with a growth hormone-secreting adenoma.METHODSA retrospective review of data collected from a prospective database of GKRS patients between January 1988 and September 2006 was performed in patients
Efficacy and feasibility of acupuncture for patients in the ED with acute, nonpenetrating musculoskeletal injury of the extremities.

Abstract Objectives We conducted a pilot study to assess the efficacy of acupuncture as an analgesic intervention for patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) after minor acute trauma to the extremities. In addition, we sought to assess the feasibility of performing acupuncture in this setting. Methods Acupuncture was used as primary analgesia for a convenience sample of ED patients with acute, nonpenetrating extremity injury. Efficacy was measured using a visual analog scale before treatment, immediately after acupuncture (time 0), and every 30 minutes thereafter. A telephone call was made to patients within 72 hours to ascertain pain levels using a 0 to 10 numerical rating scale. Markers of feasibility included average time patients spent in the fast track area of the ED vs average time in the department (TID) for all fast track patients with similar injury. Results Of 47 patients approached, 20 (43%) consented to participate. The mean age of those who consented was 33 years, and 70% (n = 14) were male. Median change in visual analog scale score for preacupuncture vs time 0 was 16 mm, with range of 0 to 60 mm. Median numerical rating scale score at time of discharge and at follow-up was 3. Median TID was 135 minutes, with a range of 55 to 255 minutes. Patients with extremity injury who did not receive acupuncture had a median TID of 90 minutes. Conclusions This study suggests that acupuncture can be an effective analgesic intervention for patients with acute injury to the extremities. Acupuncture did not increase patients' TID. Minor complications were reported.
Energy Transfer and Quenching in Plastic Scintillators

Abstract Luminescence quenching in polystyrene + 9,10-diphenylanthracene + quencher and polystyrene + quencher systems has been investigated. In the latter system, the residual styrene monomer is regarded as a fluorescent solute. Result show that solvent quenching observed under uv excitation is due mainly to the competition between dipole-dipole energy transfer from polystyrene to the fluor and that from polystyrene to the quencher, and that such a transfer occurs directly from an excited polystyrene segment before it forms an excimer with an unexcited segment. Solvent quenching under beta-ray excitation was generally greater than that under uv excitation. It is suggested that this phenomenon may result from the occurrence of energy transfer at higher excited state of polystyrene. Solute quenching in some series of polystyrene + 9,10-diphenylanthracene + quencher is not accounted for by usual mechanisms of quenching. Such quenching can be explained by assuming energy transfer from the singlet excited sta...
Measurement of condensed-phase reaction kinetics in the aerosol phase using single particle mass spectrometry

We applied a recently developed single particle mass spectrometer to analyze the elemental composition of individual aerosol particles and applied the technique to study the kinetics of thermal decomposition of metal nitrate aerosols (aluminum, calcium, silver, and strontium). Such decomposition processes on the industrial scale is known as spray pyrolysis and is a common method for making metal and metal oxide particles. Metal nitrate aerosols were passed through a tube furnace to induce thermal decomposition and transformation into oxides, and were delivered with high efficiency into the vacuum system of the single particle mass spectrometer using an aerodynamics lens arrangement. The particles were ablated and torn down to atomic ions with a tightly focused, high-power pulsed laser in the extraction field of the time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The mass spectra thus obtained are shown to carry a quantitative signature of the elemental composition of individual particles, and allow for on-line measurem...
Predicting surgical site infection after spine surgery: a validated model using a prospective surgical registry

Abstract Background context The impact of surgical site infection (SSI) is substantial. Although previous study has determined relative risk and odds ratio (OR) values to quantify risk factors, these values may be difficult to translate to the patient during counseling of surgical options. Ideally, a model that predicts absolute risk of SSI, rather than relative risk or OR values, would greatly enhance the discussion of safety of spine surgery. To date, there is no risk stratification model that specifically predicts the risk of medical complication. Purpose The purpose of this study was to create and validate a predictive model for the risk of SSI after spine surgery. Study design This study performs a multivariate analysis of SSI after spine surgery using a large prospective surgical registry. Using the results of this analysis, this study will then create and validate a predictive model for SSI after spine surgery. Patient sample The patient sample is from a high-quality surgical registry from our two institutions with prospectively collected, detailed demographic, comorbidity, and complication data. Outcome measures An SSI that required return to the operating room for surgical debridement. Materials and methods Using a prospectively collected surgical registry of more than 1,532 patients with extensive demographic, comorbidity, surgical, and complication details recorded for 2 years after the surgery, we identified several risk factors for SSI after multivariate analysis. Using the beta coefficients from those regression analyses, we created a model to predict the occurrence of SSI after spine surgery. We split our data into two subsets for internal and cross-validation of our model. We created a predictive model based on our beta coefficients from our multivariate analysis. Results The final predictive model for SSI had a receiver-operator curve characteristic of 0.72, considered to be a fair measure. The final model has been uploaded for use on SpineSage.com . Conclusions We present a validated model for predicting SSI after spine surgery. The value in this model is that it gives the user an absolute percent likelihood of SSI after spine surgery based on the patient's comorbidity profile and invasiveness of surgery. Patients are far more likely to understand an absolute percentage, rather than relative risk and confidence interval values. A model such as this is of paramount importance in counseling patients and enhancing the safety of spine surgery. In addition, a tool such as this can be of great use particularly as health care trends toward pay for performance, quality metrics (such as SSI), and risk adjustment. To facilitate the use of this model, we have created a Web site ( SpineSage.com ) where users can enter patient data to determine likelihood for SSI.
An Application of Nonlinear Bounded Influence Estimation to Aggregate Bank Borrowing from the Federal Reserve

Abstract Forecasting aggregate discount window borrowing has posed difficulties for the Federal Reserve, due in part to outliers resulting from numerous institutional changes and special borrowing situations. This article applies bounded influence estimation and influence diagnostics to identify and adjust for outliers in the case of discount window borrowing. Since most banks borrow from the Federal Reserve infrequently, the model is nonlinear and of the switching regression class. We perform case-deletion diagnostics, modifying the empirical influence function of Reid and Crepeau (1985) for the nonlinear regression. The bounded influence estimator (BIE) extends Carroll and Ruppert (1985, 1987). Influence diagnostics and bounded influence estimation contribute to the investigation of discount window borrowing in a number of ways. Examination of weights generated by the estimator reveals that the BIE downweights observations during periods of known institutional change affecting the discount window. Conse...
Foreign Direct Investment and International Migration A Cross-National Analysis of Less-Developed Countries, 1985—2000

This study explores the impact of macro-level processes of the global economy on international migration. The authors utilize a cross-national panel regression analysis to examine the effect of foreign direct investment on the level of emigration from 25 less-developed countries between 1985 and 2000. The findings indicate that the stock of foreign direct investment increases net emigration over time, while trade integration lessens these movements. The level of economic development exerts no independent effect on out-migration once other factors are controlled. The results are discussed in the context of contemporary development and migration theories.
Severe valve deformation following cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a patient with a transcatheter aortic valve.

An 87-year-old patient with severe aortic stenosis underwent transapical transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a 26-mm Edwards Sapien valve (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, California). Pre-operative imaging was notable for severe asymmetric calcification along the posterolateral aspect of the
Effect of Indomethacin and Nω-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester on the Pressure/Flow Relation in Isolated Perfused Hindlimbs From Pregnant and Nonpregnant Rats:

To compare the pressure /flow relationship and to assess the roles of prostaglandins and nitric oxide inflow-induced vasodilation in the nonpregnant and late-pregnant rat hindlimb vasculature. Pressure/flow and conductance/flow relationships were determined in isolated, Krebs buffer-perfused, norepinephrine (0.5 μmol/L) preconstricted hindlimbs from nonpregnant and late-pregnant Wistar-Kyoto rats before and after inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase with indomethacin (20 μmol/L), or nitric oxide synthase with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (300 μmol/L). There were no significant differences in baseline perfusion pressure between nonpregnant and pregnant rat hindlimbs perfused at 2 mL/min (20.6 ±0.8 and 19.7 ± 1.1 mmHg, respectively) and norepinephrine increased perfusion pressure about twofold (40.8 ±2.0 and 34.8 ± 1.8 mmHg, respectively). After constriction, perfusion pressure increased linearly as flow was increased in a stepwise manner to a maximum of 4 mL/min. The slope of the pressure/flow regression line for the pregnant rat hindlimbs (6.00) was significantly lower (P ≤.001) than that for the nonpregnant rat hindlimbs (8.44). Vascular conductance also increased as flow was increased, and was significantly greater at all flow rates in the pregnant compared to the nonpregnant rat hindlimbs. Indomethacin slightly decreased the constrictor response to norepinephrine and increased the pressure/flow regression line slope in nonpregnant, but not in pregnant rat hindlimbs. Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester abolished flow-mediated vasodilation in nonpregnant and pregnant rat hindlimbs, and there was no longer any significant difference between the pressure/flow regression line slopes. These results suggest that flow-induced vasodilation, mediated by endothelium-derived nitric oxide, is enhanced during pregnancy allowing the maternal vasculature to accommodate increased blood flow without increased blood pressure.