cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Associations of Gestational Weight Gain with Preterm Birth among Underweight and Normal Weight Women

Studies report increased risk of preterm birth (PTB) among underweight and normal weight women with low gestational weight gain (GWG). However, most studies examined GWG over gestational periods that differ by term and preterm which may have biased associations because GWG rate changes over the course of pregnancy. Furthermore, few studies have specifically examined the amount and pattern of GWG early in pregnancy as a predictor of PTB. Within one integrated health care delivery system, we examined 12,526 singleton pregnancies between 2000 and 2008 among women with a body mass index 28 weeks gestation. Using self-reported pregravid weight and serial measured antenatal weights, we estimated GWG and the area under the GWG curve (AUC; an index of pattern of GWG) during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy (≤28 weeks). Using logistic regression adjusted for covariates, we examined associations between each GWG measure, categorized into quartiles, and PTB ( 12.9]. Similarly, pattern of GWG was not associated with PTB. Our findings do not support an association between GWG in the first and second trimester and PTB among underweight and normal weight women.
Learning Disabilities and Foreign Languages: A Curriculum Approach to the Design of Inclusive Courses

Most universities require 1 or 2 years of foreign language (FL) study in at least 1 program as part of their general education requirements, yet many students with learning disabilities (LDs) find it extremely difficult to complete traditional FL courses. In this paper I describe some of the salient characteristics of these learners and common pedagogical assumptions of FL faculty that may make it difficult for students with LDs to complete the FL general education requirement. I list specific strategies that, according to students with LDs that I have interviewed, address some of their needs as FL learners. I then propose a systems approach to instructional design that faculty teams could use to redesign beginning Spanish language classes in order to accommodate students with LDs. I conclude that faculty, with administrative support, can collaborate in the design of inclusive FL courses in which all students—both those with LDs and those without—can experience success.
Who's in charge here?: Cooperative work and authority negotiation in police helicopter missions

A study-of collaboration and the ongoing negotiation of authority in police helicopter work focused on inflight communication in one helicopter during two weeks of operation. Data were drawn from audio and video recordings of internal and external communications obtained inflight and from observation and physiological indicators of stress and workload. The factors observed included the official relationship of the crew members, the physical organization of the task and setting, the organization of information available to the subjects, Vie social organization of the work setting, and the collaboratiVe nature of the work. Language use aspects examined included evidence of crew hierarchy, teasing, rates of initiation of non-operationally relevant new topics by each crew member, mitigation levels, and requests for information. Analysis of the data suggested that while there was evidence of the social hierarchy in the helicopter, the language of the speakers was not entirely predictable by their positions in that hierarchy, but reflected momentary changes in their relation to each other, dictated by changes in the task situation. Implications for other collaborative work settings were found in these results, and further research on authority negotiation in collaborative work settings was recommended. (MSE) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made 'from the original document. ***********************************************************************
Pb 210 -determined sedimentation rate, and accumulation of metals in sediments at a station in Chesapeake Bay

This paper contains the first published radiometrically determined contemporary sedimentation rate, a rate characteristic of the past few decades, for any part of the Chesapeake Bay estuarine system. Cores collected from a station in the main body of the Chesapeake Bay off Tilghman Island (38°41′30″N, 76°24′00″W) were analyzed for Pb210, organic carbon, nitrogen, and selected metals. A mean sedimentation rate of between 0.09–0.12 cm/y was inferred from the Pb210 data. The distributions of C and N are typical of many areas of the Bay. The distributions of extractable Ni, Cr, Cu, and Pb increased in the upper 10–15 cm of the core. The increases in metal concentrations over the past century or so may be a result of man’s activities.
Three-Dimensional Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships I. General Approach to the Pharmacophore Model Validation†

A conceptually and computationally integrated approach to pharmacophore model validation is discussed at length. It allows one, for the first time, to address the question of pharmacophore existence and assessment of its uniqueness in a rigorous and quantitative manner. The approach has been effectively applied to the analysis of seventeen structurally diverse potent inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme and the resultant pharmacophore greatly refines the previously suggested models.
Physician responses to the malpractice crisis: from defense to offense.

Medical science brings innovations in patient care at an astounding pace today - new chemotherapeutic agents, coated stents, and minimally invasive surgery are just few recent examples. For physicians, though, the specter of malpractice liability can overshadow the marvel of practicing in this era. Many physicians are working in a volatile liability environment; they face spiraling costs for malpractice insurance, have difficulties purchasing liability coverage at any price, and see record payouts in a growing number of claims against their colleagues. The American Medical Association (AMA) has declared that at least 20 states are currently in a malpractice “crisis,” with another 24 states showing early signs of an impending crisis. There have been two comparable periods of instability in the last thirty years, but these predecessor crises differ from the current one in important ways. First, while physicians mainly experienced dwindling options for obtaining coverage in the mid-1970s (i.e., availability) and exorbitant prices in the mid-1980s (i.e., affordability), the current crisis appears to have elements of both availability and affordability.
Average pt as a probe of high energy QCD dynamics

Abstract Average transverse momentum of hadrons produced in high energy collisions is proposed as a diagnostic probe of high density (saturation) physics. We show that by introducing a transverse momentum cutoff in the definition of the average transverse momentum, one can eliminate the uncertainty in the overall magnitude of the leading order hadron production cross section in high energy collisions, and semi-quantitatively map the different dynamical regions predicted by the saturation physics. We discuss the applications of this method to pion production at RHIC and LHC and make quantitative predictions for the average transverse momentum of produced pions in the kinematics appropriate for the RHIC and LHC experiments.
Expression of underglycosylated MUC1 antigen in cancerous and adjacent normal breast tissues.

Abstract Introduction Mucin 1 antigen (MUC1) is a high-molecular-weight transmembrane glycoprotein with an aberrant expression profile in various malignancies, including breast cancer. Its increased overexpression and underglycosylation in breast cancer is associated with tumor invasiveness and metastatic potential. In this study, we took the next step toward establishing MUC1 as a potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic target by investigating its expression and posttranslational modification (glycosylation/sialylation). Patients and Methods In these studies we used a breast cancer tissue microarray (TMA) and fresh-frozen multistage breast cancer tissues. We analyzed in detail the expression of normal and underglycosylated/sialated MUC1 by immunohistochemical techniques, real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and various analytic techniques. Results We found that changes in cellular localization as well as in upregulation and/or underglycosylation of MUC1 were associated with higher tumor grade. A key finding in this study was that underglycosylated MUC1 (uMUC1) overexpression and sialation were observed in tissues adjacent to tumor but identified as normal on pathology reports. Conclusions These findings suggest that uMUC1 can indeed be used as an early diagnostic marker and provide additional insights into breast cancer management.
The influence of disorder on the magnetic phenomena in metalloporphyrin-based magnets

Abstract We investigate the effects of disorder in the quasi-one-dimensional metalloporphyrin family of molecule-based magnets. These materials are electron transfer salts consisting of linear chains of alternating S = 2 Mn -porphyrin donors and S = 1/2 bridging acceptors. Studies of the irreversibilities, and frequency dependence of the ac magnetic susceptibility suggest a cluster glass-like behavior in certain compounds at low temperatures. The role of the intercalated solvent and its relation to any disorder present in the compounds are discussed.
Shock front reaction and initiation of detonation in low density ammonium perchlorate

Abstract Shock transit times in granular ammonium perchlorate at 1·0 g cm−3 bulk density have yielded a locus of shocked states that exhibits a region of apparently positive slope in the pressure/volume plante between 3 and 10 kilobars and shocked specific volumes greater than the normal value of the crystal between 10 and 70 kbar. Correspondingly, the locus is non-linear in the shock-velocity/particle-velocity plane. Thus, except for extremely weak shocks, ammonium perchlorate fails to follow the collapsing aggregate model, a behaviour which is ascribed to chemical reaction in initiating shocks. For potassium chloride aggregates, in which no reaction can occur, the shocked specific volumes are indistinguishably close to those of the solid crystal up to about 20 kbar. They are significantly larger than those of the crystal at about 40 kbar, but still less than the specific volume of the uncompressed crystal. The shocked specific volumes of potassium chloride at 40 kbar are about 30 per cent less than the shocked specific volumes of ammonium perchlorate aggregates at the same pressure. Because the shocked states are calculated from shock and particle velocities measured when the shock first enters the ammonium perchlorate aggregate, it is proposed that reaction takes place in the shock front. Hot spots capable of causing such localized reaction have been photographed in large particle-sized aggregates at nominal pressures below 15 kbar. Calculations under two sets of assumptions have reproduced the general shape and location of the locus of shocked states. Pressure measurements with manganin-wire gauges show a steady buildup in the initiating shock even though the velocity appears to change little as the transition to detonation is approached. This is ascribed to reaction in the non-steady flow behind the front.
92 Phylogenetic analysis of the caulerpales (ulvophyceae, chlorophyta) based on rbcl gene sequences

Our research seeks to clarify the phylogeny of the Caulerpales through analyses of rbcL (large subunit of ribulose 1,5 biphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) gene sequences. In a review of caulerpalean taxonomy, Hillis-Colinvaux (1984) recognized two suborders (Bryopsidineae and Halimedineae) on the basis of anatomical, physiological, and habitat characteristics. The Bryopsidineae (including the genera Bryopsis, Derbesia, and Codium) have cosmopolitan distributions, non-holocarpic reproduction, and homoplasty, while the Halimedineae (including Caulerpa, Halimeda, and Udotea) have tropical to subtropical distributions, holocarpic reproduction, and heteroplasty. Previous phylogenetic analyses based on 18S rRNA sequence data supported the hypothesis of two monophyletic suborders within the Caulerpales (Zechman et al 1990). However, cladistic analyses of morphological characters (Vroom 1998) suggested that only the Halimedineae was monophyletic. Preliminary maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses suggest the Halimedineae and Bryopsidineae form separate monophyletic groups, with robust support (bootstrap and posterior probabilities) for the former and moderate to poor support for the latter. The families of the Halimedineae (Caulerpaceae, Udoteaceae) form monophyletic sister groups with robust support. The freshwater family Dichotomosiphonaceae was inferred to be basal to the marine Halimedineae clade. The families within the Bryopsidineae (Derbesiaceae, Bryopsidaceae, Codiaceae) each form distinct monophyletic groups. The Codiaceae forms a basal monophyletic group to the sister clade of Bryopsidaceae and Derbeseaceae. This research was partially supported from a NSF grant (DEB-0128977 to FWZ).
In search of the transfusion threshold

Every medical decision involves weighting the risk versus benefit. The risks related to red blood cell transfusion include the adverse effects of allogeneic blood and the risks of anemia. The potential benefits of blood transfusion are reduction of mortality and morbidity and improvement in functional recovery. In this lecture, I will focus on risks related to anemia and what is know about the benefits of allogeneic transfusion. I will complete the presentation with a description of a new clinical trial called FOCUS.
Removal of F1 baseline distortion and optimization of folding in multidimensional NMR spectra

We demonstrate an equally effective approach, requiring that the sampling delay equals exactly half a dwell time. This approach will be illustrated for the simplest case of 1D and 2D NMR, but it is successfully used in our laboratory for the processing of 3D and even 4D spectra
Bronchoalveolar lavage. Its safety in subjects with mild asthma.

It has been suggested that fiberoptic bronchoscopy may induce life-threatening bronchospasm in persons with asthma. The safety of bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) with bilateral installation of 300 ml of saline solution was assessed prospectively in ten adults with mild asthma as a part of a study of the lower respiratory tract in bronchospastic disease. Asthmatic subjects had pretreatment with intravenous aminophylline prior to bronchoscopy. Pulmonary function tests were performed prior to and immediately after the procedure, and values were compared to results in 12 normal adults undergoing bronchoscopy with BAL. One subject had mild bronchospasm (the third subject) before BAL could be performed. There were no major complications in the remaining asthmatic or normal subjects. Mean forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV 1 ) did not change significantly in either group, and the mid-flow rate at 50 percent of vital capacity ( V . max50%) decreased significantly only in normal subjects (p = 0.002). Moreover, none of the nine asthmatic subjects completing bronchoscopy with BAL had clinically significant bronchospasm. These results suggest that elective fiberoptic bronchoscopy and BAL can be performed safely in subjects with mild asthma.
In vitro evaluation of elastin-like polypeptide-collagen composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering.

Abstract Objectives Collagen and elastin are two key structural proteins found in the extra-cellular matrices (ECMs) of most tissues, yet very little is known about the response of bone cells to elastin or its derivatives. Recently, we have designed and characterized a novel class of ECM-based composite scaffolds with collagen and a genetically engineered polymer, elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) and subsequently showed their superior mechanical properties and drug release characteristics compared to collagen scaffolds. The objective of this research was to evaluate osteoblast growth and expression on these composite scaffolds. Methods A thorough biochemical and morphological characterization was performed on MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cells cultured on collagen and ELP–collagen scaffolds. Cell viability was assessed using a live/dead assay. Total DNA content of all cells present on various surfaces was quantified. Pre-osteoblast differentiation was assessed by measuring the alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin production. Mineral deposition by the cultured cells was visualized using the Von Kossa stain. Results Our results showed that the ELP–collagen scaffolds were suitable substrates for cell culture that allowed MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cell attachment, differentiation, and subsequent mineralization over a period of 3 weeks. The ELP–collagen scaffolds displayed equivalent biocompatibility and cell-interacting properties to those of the neat collagen scaffolds. Significance The novel ELP–collagen composite material may have future implications as a scaffold material for bone tissue engineering applications, for example, the treatment of alveolar bone loss.
Hypocarbia during the First 24 Postnatal Hours and White Matter Echolucencies in Newborns <28 Weeks Gestation

The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that newborns ≤28 wk gestation who have a Pco2 measurement in the lowest gestational age-specific quartile (hypocarbia) on the first day of life are not at increased risk for ultrasonographic white matter echolucency (EL) after adjustment for confounders. The sample consisted of 799 infants ≤28 wk gestation born during 1991–1993. Forty-eight infants with EL were classified as cases and compared with 751 controls, i.e. those without EL. We performed univariable comparisons, stratified analyses, and multivariable logistic regression. In the univariable analyses, hypocarbia on the first day of life was associated with an increased EL risk. The odds ratios for the hypocarbia-EL relationship were prominently elevated in the strata of infants who did not have other major risk factors for EL (e.g. gestational age 26–28 wk, normothyroxinemia, no characteristics of antenatal infection). In the multivariable analyses, the association diminished after adjustment with a hypocarbia propensity score (odds ratio = 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 0.8–3.2) or with potential confounders.
A theory of grain boundaries that accounts automatically for grain misorientation and grain-boundary orientation

Abstract This work is an attempt to answer the question: Is there a physically natural method of characterizing the possible interactions between the slip systems of two grains that meet at a grain boundary—a method that could form the basis for the formulation of grain-boundary conditions? Here we give a positive answer to this question based on the notion of a Burgers vector as described by a tensor field G on the grain boundary [Gurtin, M.E., Needleman, A., 2005. Boundary conditions in small-deformation single-crystal plasticity that account for the Burgers vector. J. Mech. Phys. Solids 53, 1–31]. We show that the magnitude of G can be expressed in terms of two types of moduli: inter-grain moduli that characterize slip-system interactions between the two grains; intra-grain moduli that for each grain characterize interactions between any two slip systems of that grain. We base the theory on microscopic force balances derived using the principle of virtual power, a version of the second law in the form of a free-energy imbalance, and thermodynamically compatible constitutive relations dependent on G and its rate. The resulting microscopic force balances represent flow rules for the grain boundary; and what is most important, these flow rules account automatically—via the intra- and inter-grain moduli—for the relative misorientation of the grains and the orientation of the grain boundary relative to those grains.
SINGLE-EVENT CRACKING TEMPERATURE OF ASPHALT PAVEMENTS DIRECTLY FROM BENDING BEAM RHEOMETER DATA

Asphalt pavements under low temperature conditions develop transverse cracks as a result of one or a combination of three distress mechanisms: (1) single-event thermal cracking; (2) thermal fatigue...
Local fields in high-Tc materials

Abstract Most high-temperature superconductors exhibit two-dimensional conductance; therefore the conduction electrons are localized in the third dimension, and experience the local electric field rather than the macroscopic applied field in that direction. We report model calculations which indicate that the local field leads to enhanced electron-phonon coupling in these materials which may play a role in determining the high transition temperatures.
Dipolar Intermolecular Interactions, Structural Development, and Electromechanical Properties in Ferroelectric Polymer Blends of Nylon-11 and Poly(vinylidene fluoride)

A new polymer blend was developed from two well-known ferroelectric polymers, nylon-11 and poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVF2), by mechanically mixing them in powder form. The intermolecular interactions between these two semicrystalline polymers was evidenced by the observed decrease of the glass transition temperature and melting points of nylon-11 with increasing PVF2 concentration measured by temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to measure the shifts of several characteristic bands of nylon-11 and PVF2 in the blends, which indicated specific interaction between the polar amide groups (CONH) in nylon-11 and the polar CF2 groups in PVF2. We observed that this interaction affected the crystallization behavior of both components in the blend. The nylon-11 hydrogen-bonded structure became more disordered as the PVF2 concentration increased in the blend. PVF2 developed a large proportion of polar crystal phases (I and III) in b...
Nitrenium Ion-Mediated Alkene Bis-Cyclofunctionalization: Total Synthesis of (−)-Swainsonine

The total synthesis of (-)-swainsonine from 2,3-O-isopropylidene-D-erythrose in 12 steps and an overall yield of 28% is reported. The pivotal transformation in our route to this indolizidine alkaloid is the formation of the pyrrolidine ring and C-8a/8 stereodiad through the diastereoselective, bis-cyclofunctionalization of an γ,δ-unsaturated O-alkyl hydroxamate. This transformation is believed to proceed via the intramolecular capture of an N-acyl-N-alkoxyaziridinium ion generated by the diastereoselective addition of a singlet acylnitrenium ion to the pendant alkene.
Electromechanical model for actuating liquids in a two-plate droplet microfluidic device

Both conducting and insulating liquids can be actuated in two-plate droplet ("digital") microfluidic devices. Droplet movement is accomplished by applying a voltage across electrodes patterned beneath the dielectric-coated top and bottom plates. This report presents a general electromechanical model for calculating the forces on insulating and conducting liquids in two-plate devices. The devices are modeled as an equivalent circuit in which the dielectric layers and ambient medium (air or oil) are described as capacitors, while the liquid being actuated is described as a resistor and capacitor in parallel. The experimental variables are the thickness and dielectric constant of each layer in the device, the gap between plates, the applied voltage and frequency, and the conductivity of the liquid. The model has been used to calculate the total force acting on droplets of liquids that have been studied experimentally, and to explain the relative ease with which liquids of different conductivities can be actuated. The contributions of the electrowetting (EW) and dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces to droplet actuation have also been calculated. While for conductive liquids the EW force dominates, for dielectric liquids, both DEP and EW contribute, and the DEP force may dominate. The general utility of the model is that it can be used to predict the operating conditions needed to actuate particular liquids in devices of known geometry, and to optimize the design and operating conditions to enable movement of virtually any liquid.
Fracture-toughness testing of metal-matrix composites

Abstract Various specimen designs and test procedures were used to assess the fracture toughness of the following metal matrix composites: aluminum oxide, continuous fiber reinforced aluminum and magnesium, and silicon carbide participate and continuous fiber reinforced aluminum. The following types of specimens were examined: the compact tension, the double-edge notched, the center notched, the short-rod and the Charpy bar. The fracture toughness values for the ceramic continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composites were found to be dependent on the geometry of the specimen. Except for cross-ply laminates, fracture tended to occur primarily parallel to fibers. It was inferred that a linear elastic fracture mechanics approach may not be appropriate for the determination of fracture toughness of these materials. The results of the particulate reinforced metal matrix composite encourage a further consideration of the ASTM E-399 test procedure as a standard method for the determination of fracture toughness of this type of composites.
Hierarchical Assembly of 2D Nanostructures of Relevance for Organic Solar Cell Design

The first step in synthesizing a model film morphology via a surface-driven hierarchical assembly process is presented. The goal of the hierarchical assembly is the control of the morphology of complex molecular layers for the investigation of fundamental processes in organic solar cells. Using a focused ion beam (FIB) with Ga+ ions at 30 keV, the surface of highly oriented pyrolitic graphite (HOPG) is patterned with an array of local amorphous carbon ellipsoid spots (ACES), which provide preferential nucleation lines at their perimeter, and thus are instrumental in the control of fullerene island growth. On the undamaged surface regions outside the ACES pattern the fullerene island growth is unperturbed, and presents the well-known combination of round and fractal island shapes. The fullerene deposition at the periphery of the ACES pattern, which is characterized by single ion impact defects, results in stunted, smaller and irregular islands. Inside the ACES array, the C60 island growth is controlled by the shape of the ACES and is constrained to lobes which form around each ACES spot. The array and C60 lobe morphology and geometry are characterized and a subsequent understanding of the C60 diffusion fields and nucleation lines within the array is discussed.
Theoretical Analysis of Novel Multi-Order LC Oscillators

A conventional differential pair LC oscillator is capable of generating only a single fundamental oscillation frequency. This brief presents the theoretical study of a novel oscillator that incorporates higher order LC filters to produce multiple oscillation frequencies that may be several octaves apart. These multiple oscillation frequencies are obtained from a single oscillator, thereby reducing the area of the circuit when being used for multistandard wireless applications. Moreover, a multi-order oscillator does not suffer from large parasitic capacitances from switches, which is a common drawback in switched-inductor tuned oscillators. A detailed analysis is carried out, and useful design insights are provided
Secondary Angle-Closure Glaucoma After Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

A 65-year-old mart developed unilateral nonrubeotic secondary angle-closure glaucoma after central retinal vein occlusion. Therapy was nonsurgical and included medical control of the intraocular pressure. The anterior chamber eventually deepened and panretinal photocoagulation was later necessary because of developing rubeosis iridis and neovascularization of the optic disk. Secondary nonrubeotic angle-closure glaucoma from central retinal vein occlusion must be distinguished from rubeotic glaucoma or pupillary-block glaucoma so that inappropriate medical or surgical treatment can be avoided.
Mutational Analysis of the fruA Promoter Region Demonstrates that C-Box and 5-Base-Pair Elements Are Important for Expression of an Essential Developmental Gene of Myxococcus xanthus

Myxococcus xanthus uses extracellular signals during development to regulate gene expression. C-signaling regulates the expression of many genes induced after 6 h into development. FruA is a protein that is necessary for cells to respond to C-signaling, but expression of the fruA gene does not depend on C-signaling. Yet the fruA promoter region has a C box and a 5-bp element, similar to the promoter regions of several C-signal-dependent genes, where these sequences are crucial. Here, we show that the C box and 5-bp elements are important for expression of fruA, demonstrating for the first time that these sequences play a role in the expression of a gene that does not depend on C-signaling and is required for M. xanthus development.
Household smoking and childhood asthma in the United States: a state-level analysis.

Background. The reason for the substantial geographic variation in the prevalence of childhood asthma is not known. Objective. To investigate the association between exposure to cigarette smoking i...
POSITIVE PERTURBATIONS OF SELF-ADJOINT SCHRÖDINGER OPERATORS ON RIEMANNIAN MANIFOLDS

We consider a Schrodinger differential expression L0 = ΔM + V0 on a Riemannian manifold (M,g) with metric g, where ΔM is the scalar Laplacian on M and V0 is a real-valued locally square integrable function on M. We consider a perturbation L0 + V, where V is a non-negative locally square-integrable function on M, and give sufficient conditions for L0 + V to be essentially self-adjoint on . This is an extension of a result of T. Kappeler.
Near-death experiences: A new challenge in temporal lobe phenomenology? Comments on “A neurobiological model for near-death experiences”

The excellent framework for a neurobiological model for near-death experiences (NDEs) proposed by Juan C. Saavedra-Aguilar and Juan S. G6mez-Jeria attempts to link anomalous temporal lobe functioning with neuropeptide imbalances, particularly imbalances of the endog- enous opioid peptides. Like all pioneering contributions, this paper has drawn on a wide variety of sources to make speculative jumps that are largely justified in the context of present-day knowledge, but will no doubt require numerous alterations in basic perspective over the next two decades. I was particularly impressed with this neurophysiological NDE model of temporal lobe dysfunction, as it impinges very closely on my own work on anomalistics experiences in the temporal lobe, which has not been cited by these authors. These studies of anomalous experi- ences and the cerebral cortex have recently been reviewed, and the following is a capsule outline of current research. First, any link between anomalous experiences and brain function- ing requires a detailed description of each event. Not all subjective paranormal experiences may derive from, or be associated with, the
Roles of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding proteins in regulating IGF actions

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway that is composed of two IGF ligands, two IGF receptors, and six IGF binding proteins. Studies in a variety of species suggest that the IGF signaling system plays a fundamental role in regulating embryonic growth and differentiation as well as in maintaining homeostasis in the adults. In extracellular fluids, IGFs are present in a complex with an IGF-binding protein (IGFBP). These IGFBPs are traditionally thought to function as carrier proteins and regulate circulating IGF turnover, transport, and distribution. Locally expressed IGFBPs can also inhibit and/or potentiate IGF activities. Recent studies have shown that some IGFBPs, in particular IGFBP-3 and -5, possess intrinsic biological activities and can act through IGF-independent mechanisms. In this article, we provide a brief overview of our current understanding of the IGF signaling system with particular reference to IGFBPs.
Circular Dichroism of Biological Macromolecules

Circular dichroism, the unequal absorption of right and left circularly polarized light, is a manifestation of optical activity in the vicinity of absorption bands. To the experimental scientist interested in the conformation of macromolecules and in the sensitive response of optical activity to conformational alteration, it offers a relatively new and powerful means of understanding the environment of chromophoric residues. As a tool in the elucidation of electronic spectra, it should be useful to the theoretical scientist in identifying weakly allowed absorption bands as well as in providing rotational parameters which can be compared with the developing theory of optical activity. I have stressed application of circular dichroism, to experimental aspects of protein and nucleic acid conformation in solution. Much is still uncertain in particular quantitative details. However, even these early results shed new light and yield new information on the conformation of these molecules.
Printed magnetic FePt nanocrystal films

Patterned monolayers and multilayers of FePt nanocrystals were printed onto substrates by first assembling nanocrystals on a Langmuir−Blodgett (LB) trough and then lifting them onto prepatterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stamps, followed by transfer printing onto the substrate. Patterned features, including micrometer-size circles, lines, and squares, could be printed using this approach. The magnetic properties of the printed nanocrystal films were also measured using magnetic force microscopy (MFM). Room-temperature MFM could detect a remanent (permanent) magnetization from multilayer (>3 nanocrystals thick) films of chemically ordered L10 FePt nanocrystals.
On difference sets in groups of order 4 p 2

Abstract If p is a prime greater than or equal to 5, and G is a group of order 4p2 containing a (Menon type) difference set, then either G has an irreducible complex representation of degree 4, or G ≌ 〈x, y, z | x p = y p = z 4 = 1, xy = yx, xz = zx, zyz −1 = y −1 〉 (mod4). The proof involves representation theory, algebraic number theory, and a generalization of Fourier's inversion formula. The six remaining isomorphism classes are considered in part II.
Si/Si/sub 1-x-y/Ge x C y /Si heterojunction bipolar transistors

We report the first Si/Si/sub 1-x-y/Ge/sub x/C/sub y//Si n-p-n heterojunction bipolar transistors and the first electrical bandgap measurements of strained Si/sub 1-x-y/Ge/sub x/C/sub y/ on Si (100) substrates. The carbon compositions were measured by the shift between the Si/sub 1-x-y/Ge/sub x/C/sub y/ and Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/ X-ray diffraction peaks. The temperature dependence of the HBT collector current demonstrates that carbon causes a shift in bandgap of +26 meV/%C for germanium fractions of x=0.2 and x=0.25. These results show that carbon reduces the strain in Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/ at a faster rate than it increases the bandgap (compared to reducing x in Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/), so that a Si/sub 1-x-y/Ge/sub x/C/sub y/ film will have less strain than a Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/ film with the same bandgap.
Stationary and automated laparoscopically assisted technologies.

ABSTRACT The extent that laparoscopy may impact upon the practice of surgery remains to be clarified. One problem with these techniques is the maintenance of an adequate, stationary visual field in morphometrically different abdomens. This requires the attentive, trained, and skillful utilization of someone or something to operate the camera portal. Herein reported are the theory, advantages, disadvantages, and clinical utilization of mechanical and robotic arm systems to replace this second assistant during laparoscopic surgery.
C-terminal Hsp-interacting protein slows androgen receptor synthesis and reduces its rate of degradation

The androgen receptor (AR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily that requires the action of molecular chaperones for folding and hormone binding. C-terminal Hsp-interacting protein (Chip) is a cochaperone that interacts with Hsp70 and Hsp90 molecular chaperones via a tetratricopeptide domain and inhibits chaperone-dependent protein folding in vitro. Chip also stimulates protein degradation by acting as an E3 ubiquitin ligase via a modified ring finger domain called a U box. We analyzed whether Chip affected AR levels using a transient transfection strategy. Chip overexpression led to a large decrease in AR steady state levels and increased levels of AR ubiquitinylation. However, Chip effects were not fully reversed by proteasome inhibitors, suggesting that mechanisms alternative to or in addition to proteasome-mediated degradation were involved. This hypothesis was supported by the finding that Chip overexpression reduced the rate of AR degradation, consistent with an effect on AR folding, perhaps leading to aggregation. The possibility that Chip affected AR folding was further supported by the finding that the effects of exogenous Chip were reproduced by a mutant lacking the U box. These results are discussed in terms of the role played by molecular chaperones in AR biogenesis.
Distinct midbrain and habenula pathways are involved in processing aversive events in humans

Emerging evidence implicates the midbrain dopamine system and its interactions with the lateral habenula in processing aversive information and learning to avoid negative outcomes. We examined neural responses to unexpected, aversive events using methods specialized for imaging the midbrain and habenula in humans. Robust activation to aversive relative to neutral events was observed in the habenula and two regions within the ventral midbrain: one located within the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the other in the substantia nigra (SN). Aversive processing increased functional connectivity between the VTA and the habenula, putamen, and medial prefrontal cortex, whereas the SN exhibited a different pattern of functional connectivity. Our findings provide evidence for a network comprising the VTA and SN, the habenula, and mesocorticolimbic structures that supports processing aversive events in humans.
The Case for a Generalized Net Present Value Formula

ABSTRACT Conventional NPV formulas suggest that a project's net present value is simply the sum of the present values of its net cash flows. An alternative view sees net present value as the difference between the initial wealth and the present value of the terminal wealth attributable to the project. This “incremental wealth” view requires a generalized formula which provides explicitly for the opportunity costs associated with interim cash flows. This paper discusses the limitations of conventional NPV formulas, the need for a generalized net present value formula, the use of this generalized formula to evaluate financing as well as investment opportunities and the linkage between net present value formulas and rate of return criteria.
20α-Hydroxypregn-4-en-3-one in the urine of infants within 24 hours after delivery

Abstract 20α-Hydroxypregn-4-en-3-one was found in two pools of urine of male infants within 24 hours after delivery (Pool A, 190 ml and Pool B, 350 ml). The amounts of steroid in these were 128 μg and 76 p,g, respectively. The latter material was composed, of 68 μg of glucosiduronate and 8 μg of the sulfate and no free 20α-hydroxy-pregn-4-en-3-one was detectable. Evidence that the material was 20a-hydroxypregn-4.-en-3-one was obtained by showing that it had the following characteristics in common with authentic material: 1) U.V. absorption; 2) Rf values in two thin layer chromatographic systems; 3) Rf value of acetylated derivative on thin layer chromatogram; 4) Retention time of acetylated derivative on gas chromatogram; 5) Oxidation to progesterone by chromic acid.
Race and police officers' perceptions of their job performance: An analysis of the relationship between police officers' race, education level, and job performance

This study examines whether police officers' race is associated with their performance of duties and delivery of services. Using self-report survey methodology, officers of three different races (African-American, White, and Hispanic) evaluated their performance on forty dimensions of their work. The results indicate that race is not a significant factor in officers' self-assessments. However, the results indicated that officers with some college education and college degree (irrespective of the race) report themselves performing better on several dimensions of their work than officers with no college education.
DEPRESSION AND ATTRIBUTION IN ABUSED CHILDREN AND THEIR NONOFFENDING CAREGIVERS

This study examined depression and attribution in 17 abused children and their nonoffending caregivers. Analysis indicated that negative attributions were significantly related to higher scores on ...
Transient Activation of Cyclic AMP-dependent Protein Kinase during Hippocampal Long-term Potentiation

Long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus is a possible mechanism for mammalian learning and memory in which protein kinases play critical roles. We have investigated the involvement of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) in LTP by directly studying its activation. We developed an in vitro assay which is useful for selective and accurate measurement of stimulus-induced changes in PKA activity in hippocampal slices. PKA was transiently activated 2 and 10 min after delivery of LTP-inducing stimuli in area CA1 of the hippocampus. This activation did not persist during early or late phases of LTP, suggesting that the role of PKA is in the induction of LTP, not in its expression. LTP was not associated with any change in the total activity of PKA, consistent with activation by cyclic AMP, as opposed to an increase in the amount or efficacy of the enzyme. The LTP-associated activation of PKA required stimulation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) subtype of glutamate receptor, and bath application of NMDA was sufficient to activate PKA. Together, these results indicate that at the initiation of LTP, NMDA receptor stimulation leads to transient activation of PKA, and support a role for PKA in the induction of LTP.
Low voltage Manchester adder design

A low voltage dynamic Manchester adder design is presented, with a critical delay path operating at a higher voltage level. This voltage level is generated on-chip using a bootstrapping circuit. The goal of this design is to maintain the delay of its worst-case path, comparable to the design having a higher supply voltage, while operating the rest of the circuit at a lower supply voltage, thus consuming less overall power. A SPICE simulation is performed to verify the design.
The phenomenon of diverging phase-space trajectories for a class of Hamiltonian maps

Abstract The time dependence of the distance d ( t ) of nearby trajectories, with an initial small but finite separation, is investigated for a system of N decoupled standard maps in the highly chaotic regime. We show that for N decoupled maps, all with the same parameter K , the phase space average 〈ln d ( t )〉 grows (up to a saturation) at a rate larger than the maximal Lyapunov exponent.
Endovascular Repair of Complex Aortic Pathology

Aortic aneurysms are classified as complex based on their extent and involvement of side branches. Complex aortic aneurysms include arch, thoracoabdominal, juxtarenal and suprarenal aortic aneurysms. Open surgical repair carries high morbidity and mortality beyond large tertiary care centers. During the last decade, numerous technological advances have allowed incorporation of side branches using hybrid and total endovascular techniques. Fenestrated and branched endografts have been widely applied to treat patients with complex aneurysm anatomy. Newer stent graft designs are currently under clinical investigation offering an off-the-shelf alternative to custom-made stent grafts for patients with complex aortic aneurysms. Alternatively, a number of endovascular techniques have been described including chimney, snorkel, periscope and sandwich stent grafts. This article summarizes the current status of hybrid and total endovascular techniques to repair of thoracoabdominal, juxtarenal and suprarenal aortic aneurysms.
Surviving the first year of peritoneal dialysis: enduring hard times.

Address correspondence to Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh, MD, MPH, PhD, Harold Simmons Center for Kidney Disease Research and Epidemiology, Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of California Irvine Medical Center, 101 The City Dr S, City Tower, Ste 400-ZOT: 4088, Orange, CA 92868-3217. E-mail: kkz@uci.edu 2014 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc. 0272-6386/$36.00 http://dx.doi.org/10.1053/j.ajkd.2014.08.002 Related Article, p. 761
Si/SiGe and III-V Integrated Circuit Technology for Next Generation High-Speed Systems: Comparisons and Tradeoffs

This paper will summarize the technology tradeoffs that are involved in the implementation of high-speed integrated circuit technology for communications applications. The advantages of Si/SiGe and III-V technology with respect to CMOS and Si bipolar technologies are discussed.
The Use of Phones by Elders with Disabilities: Problems, Interventions, Costs

Recognizing the important role the telephone plays in the life of frail elders, this study sought to gain a better understanding of the problems these elders encounter in using their phones to meet their needs. Starting with a sample of 354 frail elders, it was determined that 35, or just under 10%, were having some difficulty in the use of their phones. Twenty-two of these 35 subjects were randomly selected for an assessment of their impairments and phone setups in their homes. Interventions were provided to 19 of the 22 subjects, with two subjects refusing an intervention. At a 6-week follow-up call, all subjects were satisfied with the new phone or phone-related equipment. At a 6-month follow-up, 95% of subjects expressed satisfaction with the intervention. Phone usage increased by 50% for subjects provided a phone intervention. Average cost of equipment was $70.45; cost of personnel time was significantly higher. Recommendations are made for addressing the phone-related problems of frail elders.
The role of inventory investment as a leading indicator of the US business cycle

Abstract This article compares several time series of inventory investment as they relate to overall economic fluctuations. Inventory investment is shown to provide a consistent lead, particularly ahead of downturns in overall business activity. A case is made for retaining changes in inventories-on-hand as part of the U.S. composite index of leading indicators. The predictive power of inventory investment in the context of a recursive downturn probability model is measured, and the computational program used for the related calculations is described.
GaAs-Based InAs/InGaAs Quantum Dot Solar Cells for Concentration Applications

We report the I-V and spectral response characteristics of InAs/GaAs quantum dot (QD) solar cells. The results show that QD cells are promising for concentration due to significant differences in ideality factor behavior with voltage.