cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CHEEGER ISOPERIMETRIC CONSTANTS OF GROMOV-HYPERBOLIC SPACES WITH QUASI-POLES

Let X be a non-compact complete manifold (or a graph) which admits a quasi-pole and has bounded local geometry. Suppose that X is Gromov-hyperbolic and the diameters (for a fixed Gromov metric) of the connected components of X(∞) have a positive lower bound. Under these assumptions we show that X has positive Cheeger isoperimetric constant. Examples are also constructed to show that the Cheeger constant h(X) may be zero if any of the above assumption on X is removed. Applications of this isoperimetric estimate include the solvability of the Dirichlet problem at infinity for non-compact Gromov-hyperbolic manifolds X above. In addition, we show that the Martin boundary ∂ΔX of such a space X is homeomorphic to the geometric boundary X(∞) of X at infinity.
Racial and ethnic differences in general health status and limiting health conditions among American children: parental reports in the 1999 national survey of America's families.

Objectives . This research investigates the association between race/ethnicity and child health, and examines the role of family structure, family socioeconomic status (SES), and healthcare factors in this association. Five major racial/ethnic groups in the US are studied. Two child health outcomes, including parent-rated health and limiting health condition, are examined. The analysis is stratified into three age groups: age 0–5, age 6–11, and age 12–17. Design . Cross-sectional study using data from a large, nationally representative sample collected in 1999 in the US. Results . Older age groups tend to exhibit larger racial/ethnic disparities in child health. Except for some age groups of Asian youths, minority children and adolescents generally show higher risks of fair or poor parent-rated health and limiting health condition relative to Whites. Family SES partly explains the effects of Black, Hispanic, and Native American groups, but significant amount of residual effects remain. Family structure ex...
Enticing Arsonists with Broken Windows and Social Disorder

In criminology, it is well understood that indicators of urban decay, such as abandoned buildings littered with broken windows, provide criminals with signals identifying neighborhoods with lower crime detection and apprehension rates than better maintained neighborhoods. Whether it is the resident population’s sense of apathy, lack of civic pride, or fear of confrontation that causes criminals to perceive an easy mark, it nevertheless emboldens them to strike. Previous research of wildland arson hints that broken windows (e.g., areas of criminal activity) are partly responsible for arson outbreaks within the wildland–urban interface. We model the incidence of wildland and non-wildland arson ignitions in Michigan from 2001 to 2005 as a function of constructed Broken Windows indices. Our results suggest that crime prevention and urban revitalization programs may be as valuable as fire suppression, fuels management, and law enforcement in limiting incidence and the damage from both wildland and non-wildland arson.
Constructing a Code of Ethics: An Experiential Case of a National Professional Organization

This paper documents the development and implementation of an ethically valid code of ethics in a newly formed national professional organization. It describes the experience and challenges faced by the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) and its leaders as they worked to establish ethics as an organizing framework early in its evolution. Designed by the investigators and supported by the NASMM Board, the process took place over a 2 year period and more than 130 people participated. It provides a model for code development that is both practical and grounded in theory. Although the content of a code of ethics (the “product”) provides guidance to organizational members in the conduct of everyday business, especially when they face ethically challenging situations, how the code is developed (the “process”) influences its ethical validity. Few published cases document an organization’s experience developing a code, and this is the first case, to our knowledge, that provides a first-hand longitudinal account of an effective code development process.
Ascorbic Acid-Dependent Cytoprotection of Ovarian Cells by Leukocyte and Nonleukocyte Peroxidases

Abstract Luteal cells contain high levels of ascorbic acid that is secreted by stimulation with agents like luteinizing hormone (LH) and prostaglandin F 2α (PGF 2α ). One role for interstitial ascorbic acid, we propose, may be the detoxification of H 2 O 2 by regeneration of catalytically active peroxidase. By serving as a preferred secondary substrate, ascorbic acid regenerates the catalytically active peroxidase that is inhibited irreversibly by H 2 O 2 alone. To test this hypothesis, luteal cells were incubated in the absence and presence of peroxidases and H 2 O 2 , and the maximal cyclic AMP and steroidogenic response to LH was examined. In luteal cells, H 2 O 2 is known to severely inhibit LH-sensitive cyclic AMP accumulation and steroidogenesis, and the addition of lactoperoxidase, myeloperoxidase, eosinophil peroxidase, or ascorbic acid (1 mM) alone had no effect on these responses to H 2 O 2 . However, co-incubation of ascorbic acid and the peroxidases completely reversed the inhibition of cyclic AMP accumulation and steroidogenesis produced by H 2 O 2 . These findings and the results that show direct oxidation of ascorbic acid in the presence of peroxidase and H 2 O 2 , but not with H 2 O 2 alone, support the conclusion that ascorbic acid released from cells may detoxify H 2 O 2 by regenerating the catalytically active state of peroxidases.
A sonar-based technique for the ratiometric determination of binary gas mixtures☆

Abstract We have developed an inexpensive sonar-based instrument to provide a routine on-line monitor of the composition and stability of several gas mixtures having application in a Cherenkov Ring Imaging Detector. The instrument is capable of detecting small (
Note: Evaluating Community Economic Development Planning Programs with a Small Number of Participants: A Non-Parametric Approach

Many researchers and practitioners agree that evaluation of economic development planning programs is important, although the perspectives on the approaches, methods, and use of results vary widely. Confounding the issue are cases in which development programs have a small number of participants and typical measures such as parametric statistics are not valid. The alternate evaluation technique presented here uses a non-parametric approach, incorporating a control group for comparison purposes. The paper begins with a review of evaluation issues for economic development planning programs, followed by an illustration of the approach suitable for programs with small numbers of participants. It utilizes a case study of a publicly-funded small business incubator program, the Advanced Technology Development Center, located in Atlanta, Georgia. By explaining how the analysis is constructed and the results interpreted, the paper illustrates a potentially useful methodological approach to evaluating community economic development programs.
The density of tobacco retailers and its association with attitudes toward smoking, exposure to point-of-sale tobacco advertising, cigarette purchasing, and smoking among New York youth.

Abstract Objective Estimate the association between the density of licensed tobacco retailers (LTRs) and smoking-related attitudes and behaviors among middle and high school students in New York. Methods The 2000–2008 New York Youth Tobacco Surveys were pooled (N = 70,427) and linked with county-level density of LTRs and retailer compliance with laws restricting youth access to cigarettes. Logistic regressions tested for associations with attitudes toward smoking exposure to point-of-sale tobacco advertising, cigarette purchasing, and smoking prevalence. Results LTR density is associated with self-reported exposure to point-of-sale advertising in New York City (NYC) among all youth (OR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.30) and nonsmokers (OR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.30); youth believing that smoking makes them look cool, overall (OR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.22, 2.52) and among nonsmokers (OR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.11, 2.55); and a counter-intuitive negative relationship with frequent smoking in NYC (OR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.84). Retailer compliance was negatively associated with youth reporting that a retail store is their usual source for cigarettes (OR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.88, 0.98). Conclusions Restricting tobacco licenses and enforcing youth access laws are reasonable policy approaches for influencing youth smoking outcomes.
An ecological study of the Blue-faced Parrot-Finch (Erythrura trichroa macgillivrayi) near Yungaburra, Australia

The subspecies macgillivrayi of the Blue-faced Parrot-Finch (Erythrura trichroa) is confined to north Queensland where it is considered rare and of uncertain conservation status. One reason that its status is so poorly known is that almost nothing is known of its ecology. I investigated the habitat preference and foraging behaviour of E. t. macgillivrayi as well as the potential for competition with other finches at a site near Yungaburra, north Queensland. Data suggested that the species displayed a preference for rainforest edges and that dense grassland, the presence of woody plants among the grass and rainforest may be important habitat features. E. t. macgillivrayi foraged primarily by perching on Lantana camara while consuming the seeds of the introduced grass Brachiaria decumbens. This dietary preference suggests that the subspecies is not specialised in its dietary requirements. There appeared to be little potential for competition to occur between finch species as they partitioned food resources spatially. The study could find no explanation for the rarity of E. t. macgillivrayi. Future research should attempt to determine the ecological requirements of the subspecies during winter, when it migrates to the lowlands, as this will enable its true conservation status to be better evaluated.
Bioassay of kinship in Micronesia.

Phenotype bioassay agrees with clan isonymy, anthropometrics, and migration in estimating the mean kinship within a Micronesian population, relative to large distances, as 0.05. Various calculations of occupancy for the Eastern Carolines from ethnohistory, kinship, and glottochronology average around 1,000 years. Estimates of isolation by distance are in agreement for different indicators of population structure. Problems of kinship bioassay are discussed.
The Cell Surface Flocculin Flo11 Is Required for Pseudohyphae Formation and Invasion by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Diploid yeast develop pseudohyphae in response to nitrogen starvation, while haploid yeast produce invasive filaments which penetrate the agar in rich medium. We have identified a gene, FLO11, that encodes a cell wall protein which is critically required for both invasion and pseudohyphae formation in response to nitrogen starvation. FLO11 encodes a cell surface flocculin with a structure similar to the class of yeast serine/threonine-rich GPI-anchored cell wall proteins. Cells of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain Sigma1278b with deletions of FLO11 do not form pseudohyphae as diploids nor invade agar as haploids. In rich media, FLO11 is regulated by mating type; it is expressed in haploid cells but not in diploids. Upon transfer to nitrogen starvation media, however, FLO11 transcripts accumulate in diploid cells, but not in haploids. Overexpression of FLO11 in diploid cells, which are otherwise not invasive, enables them to invade agar. Thus, the mating type repression of FLO11 in diploids grown in rich media suffices to explain the inability of these cells to invade. The promoter of FLO11 contains a consensus binding sequence for Ste12p and Tec1p, proteins known to cooperatively activate transcription of Ty1 elements and the TEC1 gene during development of pseudohyphae. Yeast with a deletion of STE12 does not express FLO11 transcripts, indicating that STE12 is required for FLO11 expression. These ste12-deletion strains also do not invade agar. However, the ability to invade can be restored by overexpressing FLO11. Activation of FLO11 may thus be the primary means by which Ste12p and Tec1p cause invasive growth.
Organization, sequence and functional analysis of a mouse BDNF promoter

Abstract To examine the content of the 5′ flanking region of the mouse BDNF gene a mouse library was screened using oligonucleotides corresponding to the rat exon I untranslated region. A 6-kb genomic fragment containing exons I and II and flanking regions was isolated and sequenced. The structure of the 5′ end of the mouse gene is similar to that of rat, exons I and II are 2 small untranslated regions clustered within 500 bp of each other at the 5′ end of the gene. The nucleotide sequence homology between rat and mouse is 93%. Analysis for transcription factor-binding sites show a predominance of AP1 and C/EBP elements which are conserved between the 2 species. Deleted fragments of the 5′ flanking region of exons I and II were fused to the luciferase reporter gene and transcriptional activity was analyzed by transient expression in primary cortico-hippocampal cultures. We found that a fragment of 266 bp from exon I transcription start is sufficient for promoter activity in basal conditions. Following experimental stimulation by treatment with kainic acid, we determined that regulatory elements responsive to kainic acid are located within 989 bp of the transcriptional start of exon I.
Unipotent Conjugacy in General Linear Groups

ABSTRACT Let U(n,q) be the group of upper uni-triangular matrices in GL(n,q), the n-dimensional general linear group over the field of q elements. The number of U(n,q)-conjugacy classes in GL(n,q) is, as a function of q, for fixed n, a polynomial in q with integral coefficients.
Deep hydration: Poly(ethylene glycol) Mw 2000–8000 Da probed by vibrational spectrometry and small-angle neutron scattering and assignment of ΔG° to individual water layers

Abstract Aqueous solutions of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) exhibit some remarkable properties, among which is the small changes in water activity compared to the volumes occupied by the PEG: For example, the water in a 20% mass fraction solution of 6000 Da PEG has an activity of 0.9939. We have investigated PEGs with molecular weights 200, 400, 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 Da in the concentration range 1% to 17% mass fraction at neutral pH and with added KCl concentrations of 10 mmol L−1 in aqueous solutions–conditions near those for promoting protein crystallization. These solutions exhibit a structural change at around 6% mass fraction as seen in the solution viscosities, compressibilities, and infrared spectra. Raman spectroscopy shows that the PEGs remain in the same structural form over the concentration range, and the infrared spectra indicate that the change must be due to a local shift in the water structure. Modeling of the results from small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) on the solutions suggests that the structures of the PEGs in the molecular mass range 2000 Da to 8000 Da are paired in the solution, and the separation distance decreases with increasing PEG concentration. From the structure, it becomes clear that the small effect on water activity occurs because of screening by the more weakly bound outer layers. From the bulk measurement of aw and with reasonable assumptions, a free energy ΔG° can be assigned to each of the fourth, third, and second hydration layers.
Molybdenum carbonyl complexes in the solvent-free catalytic hydrogenation of ketones

The heterodifunctional ligand Li[η5-C5H4(CH2)2PR2] (R = Ph, Cy, and tBu) reacts with Mo(CO)3(diglyme) to give the molybdenum anion complex Li{Mo(CO)3[η5-C5H4(CH2)2PR2]}. Protonation with HOAc gives the metal hydride complexes HMo(CO)2[η5:η1-C5H4(CH2)2PR2], in which the phosphine and cyclopentadienyl ligands are linked by a two-carbon bridge. Crystal structures of HMo(CO)2[η5:η1-C5H4(CH2)2PR2] with all three R groups (R = Ph, Cy, and tBu) are reported. Syntheses of the C3-bridged complex, HMo(CO)2[η5:η1-C4H5(CH2)3PPh2], and a W analogue, HW(CO)3[η5-C5H4(CH2)2PtBu2], were carried out by analogous routes. Hydride transfer to Ph3C+BAr‘4- [Ar‘ = 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl] from the catalyst precursors HMo(CO)2[η5:η1-C5H4(CH2)2PR2] leads to homogeneous catalysts for hydrogenation of ketones, with the best performance being found for R = Cy. Protonation of HMo(CO)2[η5:η1-C5H4(CH2)2PR2] by HOTf leads to metal triflate complexes (TfO)Mo(CO)2[η5:η1-C5H4(CH2)2PR2], which are used in ketone hydrogenation. Compare...
The effectiveness of different approaches to media literacy in modifying adolescents' responses to alcohol

Fearing the negative effect that alcohol advertising might have on adolescents' receptiveness to the consumption of alcohol, health educators have used media literacy as an effective strategy to mitigate the effect of these messages in the media. The present study applied parental mediation to the design and evaluations of a media literacy curriculum that targets alcohol decision-making processes illustrated in the message interpretation process model. The authors conducted a pretest-posttest quasi-experiment of 171 adolescents to examine the effect of a negative evaluative approach and a balanced evaluative approach (a combination of negative and positive evaluative strategies) to media literacy on modifying adolescents' responses to alcohol messages. Results showed that different media literacy approaches had varying degrees of effectiveness on adolescent boys and girls. After receiving a negative media literacy lesson, adolescent boys regarded television characters as less realistic and believed that drinking alcohol had negative consequences. In contrast, adolescent girls benefited more from a balanced evaluative approach as their media skepticism attitude was enhanced. Results suggest that health educators should choose tailored pedagogical approaches that are based on gender to improve decision making regarding alcohol consumption.
Pressure effects on aminonaphthalene dye fluorescence in H2O and D2O

The pressure dependence of excited-state proton transfer equilibria has been examined for aqueous solutions of several substituted napthalene dyes, in particular 1-dimethylaminonaphthalene-5-sulfonic acid (DANS). The pressure-induced shift in equilibrium is characterized by volume changes spanning the range ΔV*=−18 cm3 mole−1 to ΔV*=+4 cm3-mole−1. A deuterium oxide solvent isotope effect is evident in the pressure response of DANS, leading to a 35% smaller ⋎ΔV*⋎ in D2O relative to H2O.
Slowed Dynamics of Thin Filament Regulatory Units Reduces Ca 2+ -Sensitivity of Cardiac Biomechanical Function

Actomyosin kinetics in both skinned skeletal muscle fibers at maximum Ca2+-activation and unregulated in vitro motility assays are modulated by solvent microviscosity in a manner consistent with a diffusion limited process. Viscosity might also influence cardiac thin filament Ca2+-regulatory protein dynamics. In vitro motility assays were conducted using thin filaments reconstituted with recombinant human cardiac troponin and tropomyosin; solvent microviscosity was varied by addition of sucrose or glucose. At saturating Ca2+, filament sliding speed (s) was inversely proportional to viscosity. Ca2+-sensitivity (pCa 50) of s decreased markedly with elevated viscosity (η/η 0 ≥ ~1.3). For comparison with unloaded motility assays, steady-state isometric force (F) and kinetics of isometric tension redevelopment (k TR) were measured in single, permeabilized porcine cardiomyocytes when viscosity surrounding the myofilaments was altered. Maximum Ca2+-activated F changed little for sucrose ≤0.3 M (η/η 0 ~ 1.4) or glucose ≤0.875 M (η/η 0 ~ 1.66), but decreased at higher concentrations. Sucrose (0.3 M) or glucose (0.875 M) decreased pCa 50 for F. k TR at saturating Ca2+ decreased steeply and monotonically with increased viscosity but there was little effect on k TR at sub-maximum Ca2+. Modeling indicates that increased solutes affect dynamics of cardiac muscle Ca2+-regulatory proteins to a much greater extent than actomyosin cross-bridge cycling.
Efficient Compressive Sensing with Deterministic Guarantees Using Expander Graphs

Compressive sensing is an emerging technology which can recover a sparse signal vector of dimension n via a much smaller number of measurements than n. However, the existing compressive sensing methods may still suffer from relatively high recovery complexity, such as O(n3), or can only work efficiently when the signal is super sparse, sometimes without deterministic performance guarantees. In this paper, we propose a compressive sensing scheme with deterministic performance guarantees using expander-graphs-based measurement matrices and show that the signal recovery can be achieved with complexity O(n) even if the number of nonzero elements k grows linearly with n. We also investigate compressive sensing for approximately sparse signals using this new method. Moreover, explicit constructions of the considered expander graphs exist. Simulation results are given to show the performance and complexity of the new method.
A proposal for a new multiaxial model of psychiatric diagnosis. A continuum-based patient model derived from evolutionary developmental gene-environment interaction.

Background/Aims: To review recent genetic and neuroscientific research on psychiatric syndromes based on the current diagnostic scheme, and develop a better-fitting multiaxial patie
Reversal of ear advantage in recovery from aphasia: A case report

Abstract A reversal from a left ear advantage to a right ear advantage on a digit dichotic listening test was observed during the first 3 months post-onset of aphasia in a 52-yr-old male patient. Explanations for this pattern of recovery were discussed under both a “lesion effect” and a “dominance effect” interpretation.
Hematopoietic not systemic impairment of Roquin expression accounts for intestinal inflammation in Roquin-deficient mice

Roquin, an E3 ligase, is involved in curtailing autoimmune pathology as seen from studies using mice with mutated (Rc3h1san/san) or disrupted (Rc3h1gt/gt) Rc3h1 gene. The extent to which intestinal immunopathology is caused by insufficient Roquin expression in the immune system, or by Roquin impairment in non-hematopoietic cells, has not been determined. Using bone marrow cells from Rc3h1gt/gt mice transferred into irradiated normal mice (Rc3h1gt/gt → NL chimeras), we show that inflammation developed in the small intestine, kidney, lung, liver, and spleen. Proinflammatory cytokine levels were elevated in lamina propria lymphocytes (LPLs). Inflammation in the liver was accompanied by areas of hepatocyte apoptosis. Lung inflammation consisted of an influx of both T cells and B cells. Small intestinal LPLs had increased numbers of CD44hi, CD62Llo, KLRG1+, ICOS+ short-lived effector cells, indicating an influx of activated T cells. Following oral infection with L. monocytogenes, Rc3h1gt/gt → NL chimeras had more liver pathology and greater numbers of bacteria in the Peyer's patches than NL → NL chimeras. These findings demonstrate that small intestinal inflammation in Rc3h1san/san and Rc3h1gt/gt mice is due to a failure of Roquin expression in the immune system and not to insufficient systemic Roquin expression.
Light scattering of fractal aerosol aggregates using T-matrix method

Light Scattering of Fractal Aerosol Aggregates Using T-Matrix MethodKung-Hau DingPhysical Science Laboratory, New Mexico State UniversityLas Cruces, New Mexico 88003ABSTRACTThe aerosols in atmosphere are often random cluster of small primary particles with disordered appearance.They are considered to be fractal aggregates with a noninteger dimensions and have the important property ofinvariance under scale transformation. The essential fractal morphology are included in this study of scatteringproperties for aggregated aerosol particles. The fractal aggregates are simulated by using the growth model ofhierarchical cluster-cluster aggregation. The T-matrix approach together with the translation addition theoremfor vector spherical waves is employed to solve the aggregate scattering problem. Numerical results for scatteringcross sections are illustrated for fractal clusters.1. INTRODUCTIONAerosols are particulate matter suspended in the atmosphere such as fog, mist, dust, smoke, soot, and fine soilparticles. Among various aerosol types, randomly-shaped agglomerates of small primary particles with ramified
Alteration of Maternal Behavior in Mice following Administration of Cyproterone Acetate

Administration of a long-acting progestational, antiandrogenic compound, cyproterone acetate, to mice at randomly selected stages of gestation altered the maternal behavior at the time of parturition. This reversal of behavior resulted in cannibalization of all offspring of treated mothers immediately or shortly after birth. Gross examination of the newborn pups revealed no anatomical malformations, thus eliminating this factor in the mutilation of the offspring by the mothers. Caesarian section of other groups of treated mothers confirmed that the fetuses were normal in size, weight, and appearance. The possibility exists that cyproterone acetate, by altering the hormonal balance of the mother, may cause atypical maternal behavior.
Serum glycoproteins in rats with experimental coccidioidomycosis.

The changes in the serum glycoproteins and the development of specific antibodies were examined during the course of experimental coccidioidomycosis in rats. The total glycoprotein, seromucoid hexose, seromucoid protein, and haptoglobin levels were signigicantly higher in sera from infected animals compared with sera from non-infected controls. These changes were evident at three days but not at two weeks following inoculation withC. immitis. The non-seromucoid hexose and total protein concentrations were not significantly different between infected animals and controls. The highest percentages of animals exhibiting positive tests for complement fixing and precipitin antibodies and positive cultures forC. immitis in organs at autopsy were found one week after infection.
Design and synthesis of a heterogeneous asymmetric catalyst

The need for enantiomerically pure pharmaceuticals and insecticides drives the search for new catalysts that can perform asymmetric reactions with high enantiomeric selectivity. Many chiral transformations are accomplished using homogeneous catalysts. Recently we reported a heterogeneous catalyst for asymmetric hydrogenation reactions, in which an organometallic catalytic complex is held in a film of water on a porous hydrophilic support, while the reactants and products remain within a hydrophobic organic phase. Such systems provide a large interfacial area between the catalytic phase and the solvent, and should facilitate the separation of product from catalyst. Our previous system gave selectivities of only about 70% enantiomeric excess, however, whereas values of at least 95% are needed for practical utility. Here we describe a modified process in which an enantiomeric excess of 96% is obtained for the asymmetric reduction of 2-(6′-methoxy-2′-naphthyl)acrylic acid to the commercially important anti-inflammatory agent naproxen. We use ethylene glycol as the hydrophilic liquid phase containing the chiral catalyst, which effectively prevents the leaching of the complex into the organic phase. Our results show that these supported-phase asymmetric catalytic systems have the potential to become commercially viable.
Trends in Asthma Therapy in the United States: 1965–1992

Background Many recent studies indicate an increasing morbidity and mortality of asthma in the past 2 decades. This study uses data from the National Disease and Therapeutic Index (NDTI) to document and analyze trends in drug therapy for asthma in the United States from 1965 through 1992. Methods The NDTI maintains a continuous rotating national sampling of approximately 1% of U S physicians in office-based practice proportionately representative of practicing generalists and specialists who report issuance of drugs in treatment by diagnosis for all patient encounters for a period of 2 days every 3 months. Annual summaries of 5 demographic categories and 14 drug categories, characterizing the asthma patient-physician encounters as percent of visits for the 28-year period of 1965 through 1992 are analyzed and characterized. Results Physician visits for asthma treatment have shifted somewhat from generalists to specialists in internal medicine and pediatrics. Allergists treat a significant proportion of the asthmatic population. Most patients were seen in the office. There has been no significant change in rates of inpatient visits. Age distribution of the population of patient visits for asthma has been stable, but there is a steady drop in ratio of males to females. Since the mid-1970s, inhaled adrenergic bronchodilator prescriptions have been issued at a markedly increasing rate. Concurrently, issuance of xanthines and oral adrenergic drugs also rose dramatically but then decreased beginning in the mid-1980s. Corticosteroids are used in 15% to 20% of visits, but only recently has the inhaled route administration shown prominence. Allergen immunotherapy for asthma has decreased more than 10-fold. Cromolyn is prescribed infrequently. Conclusions Major changes have occurred in drug treatment by physicians for asthma in the U S since 1965. Bronchodilating drugs predominate, and they are being prescribed in more effective forms at a generally increasing rate. Corticosteroid use has increased at a slower rate and in a smaller proportion of patient-visits, while allergen immunotherapy has dramatically declined. The maleto-female ratio of asthmatic patients who visit doctors for treatment appears to be decreasing.
Switching in a reversible spin logic gate

Abstract Theoretical results for the adiabatic switching of a reversible quantum inverter–realized with two antiferromagnetically coupled single electrons in adjacent quantum dots—are presented. It is found that a large exchange interaction between the electrons favors faster switching but also makes the timing of the read cycle more critical. Additionally, there exists an optimal input signal energy to achieve complete switching. Only for this optimal signal energy does the inverter yield an unambiguous, logically definite state. An experimental strategy for realizing circuits based on such gates in self-assembled arrays of quantum dots is briefly discussed.
A Hand-Held Benthic Core Sampler

ABSTRACT A hand-held benthic corer which uses a plumber's pipe test plug to create suction is described. The test plug excludes water, detritus, aquatic plants, and creates suction that holds substrate in the barrel of the corer. This device is inexpensive, easy to construct, and can be used in shallow water by a person wading, from a boat at depths of about 2 m, or by a diver in deep water.
Application of a full-genome microarray-based assay for the study of genetic variability of West Nile virus

Viral adaptation through fixation of spontaneous mutations is an important factor potentially associated with reoccurrence of West Nile virus (WNV) outbreaks in the New World. The emergence of new genetic variants of WNV represents an important public health issue because it may affect the sensitivity of WNV screening and diagnostic assays, as well as the development and efficacy of WNV vaccines and anti-viral drugs. A microarray assay was developed and optimized to enable simple monitoring of WNV genetic variability and rapid detection of any nucleotide mutations within the entire viral genome. The assay was validated using 11 WNV isolates from the 2007 and 2009 U.S. epidemics. The developed microarray system can potentially serve as a high throughput, rapid, and effective approach for the detection of circulating WNV genetic variants.
A new high-spin isomer in 154Eu

Abstract A new 48.2±1.7 min isomeric state in 154Eu has been produced through the 154Sm(p,n) reaction at Ep=11 MeV. Excited states in 154Eu with lifetimes of 4.1±0.4 μs and 50±10ns were also observed at Ex=68 and 101 keV, respectively.
Effect of Diet on Fatty Liver-Hemorrhagic Syndrome Incidence in Laying Chickens

Abstract Liver hemorrhages characteristic of those seen in Fatty Liver-Hemorrhagic Syndrome were not observed in livers having less than 4.0 g. lipid per liver or weighing less than 30 g. wet weight. However, liver size and lipid level per se were not the definitive causes of the hemorrhaging because birds without hemorrhages had liver weights and lipid values equal to or greater than those with hemorrhages. Incorporation of lipotropic vitamins (B12, E, choline, inositol) into the diet of laying chickens did not significantly (P > 0.01) reduce their liver lipid content. Increasing the dietary level of protein, vitamin B12, vitamin E, choline, inositol, selenium and/or cobalt did not prevent the occurrence of liver hemorrhages. Liver lipid was significantly (P > 0.01) reduced by feeding a low energy diet; and no liver hemorrhages were observed.
Current trends in nonoperative and operative treatment of trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis: a survey of US hand surgeons.

Purpose Multiple procedures have been described for trapeziometacarpal (TM) osteoarthritis with varying levels of evidence support. The purpose of this study was to evaluate current trends in the treatment of TM arthritis by surveying active members of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Methods We sent an online questionnaire to the e-mail addresses of 2,326 active members of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, consisting of 5 treatment and 2 demographic questions. Surgeons were contacted twice by e-mail and provided with a link to a de-identified online survey. We performed statistical analysis of correlations between demographics and treatment preferences using chi-square testing. Results We received responses from 1,156 out of 2,326 hand surgeons, a response rate of 50%. The vast majority of surgeons use corticosteroid injections for TM arthritis, and 719 out of 1,156 perform trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI) for common Eaton stage III arthritis. For scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) arthritis, approximately half of respondents also perform trapeziectomy/LRTI, followed by STT fusion. For a younger woman with minimal radiographic change and pain, 535 out of 1,142 surgeon respondents would advocate continued conservative treatment, whereas the remainder chose Eaton ligament reconstruction, arthroscopy, and metacarpal osteotomy. Conclusions This survey study presents the current opinions of a group of hand surgeons who responded to an online questionnaire regarding treatment of TM arthritis. The results show that trapeziectomy/LRTI is the treatment of choice by most respondents. The use of trapeziectomy/LRTI in the treatment of STT arthritis has not been studied in depth, but this procedure was chosen by half the respondents. The process of choosing treatment strategies is a question for future study. Type of study/level of evidence Prognostic IV.
Landscape Patterns of Tropical Forest Recovery in the Republic of Palau1

A GIS (geographic information systems) database was constructed from aerial photographs, a vegetation map, and topographic map data of the Ngeremeduu Bay Drainage Area (NBDA), Palau, to examine relationships between upland land cover dynamics, environmental variables, and past land use. In 1992, 82.9 percent of the NBDA was forest, 16.6 percent was grassland, and 0.5 percent consisted of village areas. Between 1947 and 1992, there was a 11.2 percent reduction of grassland area primarily due to a 10.9 percent increase in forest cover. These land cover changes led to larger, more continuous stretches of forest and numerous, highly fragmented grassland patches. Significant relationships (P < 0.001) were found between the spatial distribution of forest and grassland cover and slope, elevation, soil pH, and percent soil organic matter. These patterns, however, may have resulted from past farm site selection rather than from ecological relationships. Our results indicate that areas of forest expansion were significantly (P < 0.001) associated with the location of abandoned agricultural communities. In addition, over 92 percent of areas of forest expansion occurred within 100 m of established forest. These results suggest that the proximity of established forest facilitate forest recovery following human disturbance.
The Experiential Workspace and the Limits of Empirical Investigation

Abstract In this paper, I develop the notion of the experiential workspace, or the phenomenal setting generated by the coupling between the enactive body and its affordance‐laden environment, in order to carry out a fine‐grained analysis of enactive experiential phenomena, in particular those of ordinary lived experience. My purpose is to shed light on some of the ways that empirical methodologies are intrinsically limited in their ability to capture the native phenomena of enactive, embodied experience. Drawing on the work of Merleau‐Ponty, I argue that the experiential workspace is characterized by dynamic mutability, emergent norms, and epistemic openness – characteristics that are transphenomenal in nature and thus resistant to empirical measurement. Using concepts from the work of developmental psychologist Lev Vygotsky (1978) and feminist philosopher Iris Marion Young (1998), I will show how our embeddedness in an intersubjective world makes the experiential workspace a mercurial, labile phenomenon,...
Engineering economics at a hard disk drive manufacturer

Abstract The engineering economics of the hard disk drive industry is unique in the realm of engineering and manufacturing. The result of hundreds of millions of dollars and years of effort is a product life cycle that is only six quarters, not years, long. Hundreds, if not thousands of disk drives are consumed during the rigorous qualification process with server and other storage customers as they strive for ultimate reliability in the performance of their systems. Hard disk drive manufacturers have strong project management and transition processes. The product portfolio is modeled financially over a three year forecast period. The greatest opportunity in the financial modeling can be the generation of reports that minimize indecision that causes delays at the start of projects.
Inhibition of "spontaneous," notochord-induced, and collagen-induced in vitro somite chondrogenesis by cyclic AMP derivatives and theophylline.

Abstract The present study represents a first step in investigating the possible involvement of cyclic AMP in the stimulation of somite chondrogenesis elicited by extracellular matrix components produced by the embryonic notochord. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP (db-cAMP) at 1.0 m M severely impairs “spontaneous” somite chondrogenesis, i.e., inhibits the formation of the small amount of cartilaginous matrix normally formed by embryonic somites in vitro in the absence of inducing tissues. This inhibition of cartilaginous matrix formation is reflected in a 30–40% reduction in sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation. 8-Bromo-cyclic AMP also severely inhibits cartilage formation and sulfated GAG accumulation by somite explants. This impairment is limited to cyclic AMP derivatives; dibutyryl cyclic GMP, 5′-AMP, and 2′,3′-AMP have no effect. The inhibitory effect of cyclic AMP derivatives is mimicked by the cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase inhibitor, theophylline, and potentiated by the addition of both db-cAMP and theophylline. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP and/or theophylline also inhibit the stimulation of cartilaginous matrix formation and sulfated GAG accumulation normally elicited by the embryonic notochord, reducing accumulation to a level similar to that found in somite explants without notochord. The inhibition of chondrogenesis by cyclic AMP in notochord-somite explants appears to result from an inability of somites to respond and not from an effect on the inductive capacity of the notochord, since db-cAMP has no detectable effect on the synthesis of molecules (sulfated GAG and collagen) by the notochord that have been implicated in its inductive activity. Finally, db-cAMP and/or theophylline inhibit the stimulation of somite chondrogenesis normally elicited by purified Type I collagen substrates. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP and theophylline reduce sulfated GAG accumulation by somites cultured on collagen to a level even below that accumulated by somites cultured in the absence of collagen, i.e., on Millipore filters.
Interleukin‐1 β increases gap junctional communication among synovial fibroblasts via the extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase pathway

Background information. The gap junction protein, Cx43 (connexin 43), has been implicated in the aetiology of osteoarthritis. Studies have revealed that the size and number of gap junctions increase in synovial biopsies from patients with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of Cx43 function has been shown to reduce IL-1β (interleukin-1β)-induced metalloproteinase production by synovial fibroblasts in vitro. Results. In the present study, we examined the link between IL-1β and Cx43 function. We demonstrated that treatment of a rabbit synovial fibroblast cell line with IL-1β markedly increased the level of the Cx43 protein in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The impact on Cx43 protein levels appeared to occur post-transcriptionally, as mRNA levels are unaffected by IL-1β administration. Additionally, we showed by fluorescence microscopy that IL-1β alters the cellular distribution of Cx43 to cell–cell junctions and is concomitant with a striking increase in gap junction communication. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the increase in Cx43 protein, and the associated change in protein localization and gap junction communication following IL-1β treatment, are dependent upon activation of the ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) signalling cascade. Conclusion. These data show that IL-1β acts through the ERK signalling cascade to alter the expression and function of Cx43 in synovial fibroblasts.
Developing a Scenario for Widespread Use: Best Practices, Lessons Learned:

The ShakeOut Scenario is probably the most widely known and used earthquake scenario created to date. Much of the credit for its widespread dissemination and application lies with scenario development criteria that focused on the needs and involvement of end users and with a suite of products that tailored communication of the results to varied end users, who ranged from emergency managers to the general public, from corporations to grassroots organizations. Products were most effective when they were highly visual, when they emphasized the findings of social scientists, and when they communicated the experience of living through the earthquake. This paper summarizes the development criteria and the products that made the ShakeOut Scenario so widely known and used, and it provides some suggestions for future improvements.
Descriptive epidemiology of enteric disease in Chennai, India.

There are very few data on the prevalence of coccidian enteric parasites among low-income adults hospitalized in Chennai, India. Stool samples from 200 patients were screened for selected parasites, enteric bacterial pathogens, and other protozoa over a 3-month period. The study identified 42 (21%) Cryptosporidium, 36 (18%) V. cholerae, 17 (9%) Salmonellla, 12 (6%) Isospora, six (3%) helminths, five (3%) Shigella, one (1%) Cyclospora, one (1%) other protozoan, and 0% V. parahaemolyticus cases. Co-infection was present in 21 patients. Cryptosporidium was detected in 17 (81%) of co-infected patients. Our findings highlighted the relatively high proportion of patients in this population with Cryptosporidium and Isospora and suggest that further study be undertaken to determine the utility of broader use of diagnostic testing for coccidian parasites in India. Detection may be beneficial because isosporiasis is treatable and both Isospora and Cryptosporidium are important pathogens in AIDS patients.
Echocardiographic and hemodynamic evaluation of cardiovascular performance during laparoscopy of morbidly obese patients.

Background: The effects of morbid obesity, pneumoperitoneum (PP) and body position on cardiac function during laparoscopy were studied. Methods: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was performed on 10 obese patients (body mass index, BMI, 48.1±1.8 kg/m2) and 10 normal weight patients (BMI = 22.6±0.8 kg/m2) in supine, Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positions before and after PP. Left ventricular end-systolic wall stress (LVESWS) was calculated from invasive blood pressure (BP) values and LV dimensions obtained by TEE. Diastolic filling was assessed by mitral valve and pulmonary vein flow velocities. Results: LVESWS was higher in obese patients both at baseline (46.0±4.0x103 dyn/cm2) and with PP (69.3±8.2x103 dyn/cm2), than normal weight subjects (31.9±3.7x103 dyn/cm2 and 45.7±5.9x103 dyn/cm2; P <0.05 obese vs normal weight patients at baseline). Systolic BP was not different between groups at baseline (normal weight 111±4 mmHg, obese 119±3 mmHg), but increased significantly with PP only in obese patients (normal weight 129±6 mmHg, obese 157±8 mmHg; P <0.05). Postural changes during PP had no impact on cardiac function in either obese or normal weight subjects. Conclusions: Anesthetized obese patients undergoing laparoscopy have higher LVESWS before pneumoperitoneum (due to increased end-systolic left ventricular dimensions) and during pneumoperitoneum (due to more pronounced increases in blood pressure). Since LVESWS is a determinant of myocardial oxygen demand, more aggressive control of blood pressure (ventricular afterload) in MO patients may be warranted to optimize the myocardial oxygen requirements.
Patient radiation dose associated with uterine artery embolization.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the estimated absorbed radiation doses to the ovaries and skin entrance during uterine artery embolization (UAE) for leiomyomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Radiation dose was measured in 20 patients who underwent UAE for leiomyomas. Measurements were obtained by placing lithium fluoride dosimeters both into the posterior fornix of the vagina and on the skin at the beam entrance site. Patient doses were obtained with thermoluminescent dosimeters. RESULTS: The mean fluoroscopic time was 21.89 minutes, and the mean number of angiographic exposures was 44. The mean estimated absorbed ovarian dose was 22.34 cGy, and the mean absorbed skin dose was 162.32 cGy. These values compare to published values for the assessed absorbed ovarian dose during hysterosalpingography (0.04–0.55 cGy), fallopian tube recanalization (0.2–2.75 cGy), computed tomography of the trunk (0.1–1.9 cGy), and pelvic irradiation for Hodgkin disease (263–3,500 cGy). CONCLUSION: The estimated absorbed ovarian dose during UAE i...