cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Have jumpdrive, will travel: medical lecturing in the age of PowerPoint.

1 This is an article for all of you who are invited to give lectures. What should you be doing? What should you not be doing? What should your hosts be doing? Several years ago, I wrote about this—before the advent of digital projectors and PowerPoint—in an article entitled “Have Slides/Will Travel.” Times have changed, but the fundamental need for common sense and courtesy never changes. I have been invited to lecture in 45 of 50 states and on 5 continents, so I consider myself a bit of an expert. It never ceases to amaze me how many things can go wrong. First and foremost, there is the lead up to the lecture. Now, in 2009, there are a zillion hoops to jump through, courtesy of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME). Your hosts may want to view your entire PowerPoint presentation before you even arrive, and the many disclosure forms are downright insulting. I am particularly enamored of the ACCME “Content Validation Acknowledgement Form,” which reads thus:
Effect of low temperature storage on phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of sweetpotatoes

Abstract Low temperature stress-induced phenolic compounds may increase the antioxidant activity and hence the nutraceutical value of sweetpotatoes [ Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam]. Cured and non-cured roots of ‘Beauregard’ sweetpotatoes were exposed to low temperature storage (5 °C) for up to 4 weeks. A significant increase in total phenolic content in cured and non-cured roots was observed after 2 weeks of low temperature exposure. However, an increase in the antioxidant activity after 3 weeks of storage at 5 °C was noticed only in non-cured roots. After 4 weeks of storage at 5 °C, non-cured roots accumulated higher total phenolics and antioxidant activity than cured roots. Among tissue locations, the highest phenolic content and antioxidant activity were found in the periderm tissue and the lowest in the pith tissue. A 3-day exposure period to ambient temperature (∼22 °C) following low temperature storage resulted in a significant increase in antioxidant activity in periderm tissue. The highest total phenolic content (7.55 g kg −1 ) and antioxidant activity (8.05 g kg −1 ), on a fresh weight basis, were found in periderm tissue from roots transferred to ambient temperature after 4 weeks of low temperature storage. The most abundant individual phenolic acid in sweetpotato roots was chlorogenic acid followed by 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid. Chilling injury symptoms such as pitting and internal discoloration were apparent after 3 weeks of storage and were noticeably more severe in non-cured roots than cured root tissue.
Characterization of an apparently novel β-cell line-enriched 80-88 kDa transcriptional activator of the MafA and Pdx1 genes

MafA and Pdx1 represent critical transcriptional regulators required for the maintenance of pancreatic islet β-cell function. The in vivo β-cell-enriched expression pattern of these genes is principally directed by islet transcription factors binding within conserved Region 3 (base pairs (bp) −8118/−7750) of MafA and Area II (bp −2153/−1923) of the Pdx1 gene. Comprehensive mutational analysis of conserved MafA Region 3 revealed two new β-cell line-specific cis-activation elements, termed Site 4 (bp −7997 to −7988) and Site 12 (bp −7835 to −7826). Gel mobility and antibody super-shift analysis identified Pdx1 as the Site 4 binding factor, while an 80–88 kilodalton (kDa) β-cell line-enriched protein complex bound Site 12 and similar aligned nucleotides within Pdx1 Area II. The 80–88 kDa activator was also found in adult mouse islet extract. Strikingly, the molecular weight, DNA binding, and antibody recognition properties of this activator were unique when compared with all other key islet transcription factors tested, including Prox1 (83 kDa), Hnf1α (67 kDa), FoxA2 (48 kDa), MafA (46 kDa), Isl1 (44 kDa), Pdx1 (42 kDa), and Nkx2.2 (30 kDa). Collectively, these data define an apparently novel MafA Region 3 and Pdx1 Area II activator contributing to expression in β-cells.
Macintosh graphics for the EPICS flow cytometer user

Graphic options for the EPICS flow cytometer user have been restricted in the past to software written specifically for the analysis and graphics of flow cytometric data. The software is limited to only a few graphic presentation styles. The technique described will allow the EPICS user to translate histogram files into text files that can be used in an alternative computer format.
Effects of inclusive vs. exclusive language on evaluations of the counselor

This study examined the effects of exclusive vs. inclusive language (using generic pronouns to describe both genders as opposed to using more encompassing terminology such as “she or he”) on evaluations of a counselor. After reading a counseling session transcript in which language style and counselor gender were manipulated, 88 female and 44 male college students (80% White, 6% African American, 4% Alaska Native, 2% Asian American, and 3% Hispanic) completed several instruments assessing their perceptions and expectations about the counselor, as well as their sex-role ideology. Results indicated that language style affected evaluations, with all participants expressing less willingness to see the counselors using exclusive language and rating them as more sexist. The impact of exclusive language was most evident with female and feminist participants with these participants expressing less confidence in counselors using exclusive language. Results also revealed that participants were more willing to see a same-gender counselor and rated such counselors as more expert. Given these results, counselors should be aware of their language style and the possible impact it may have on clients, particularly female and feminist clients, and make any needed changes to lessen the possibility of negatively affecting their clients.
FLEXURAL BEHAVIOR OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS EXTERNALLY STRENGTHENED WITH CFRP SHEETS BONDED WITH AN INORGANIC MATRIX

Abstract Externally bonding fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets with an epoxy resin is an effective technique for strengthening and repairing reinforced concrete (RC) beams under flexural loads. In this study, a total of eight RC beams was tested and analyzed: one control beam and seven beams reinforced with three to six layers of carbon fiber sheets bonded by an inorganic epoxy. All specimens were subjected to a four-point bending test under load control while load, deflection, mid-span strain and failure mode were recorded up to failure. It is found that the load carrying capacity increases with the number of layers of carbon fiber sheet up to 170.2% of the control beam strength. For three and four layers of FRP reinforcement, the beams failed by rupture of FRP, while beams with five and six layers of FRP reinforcement failed by FRP delamination. The ductility of the FRP strengthened beams is greatly reduced compared to the control beam. A moment deflection model is developed and used on the tested beams in current and other similar studies. Good agreement between experiment and prediction values is achieved.
Reply to Chicago

Stigler has raised some interesting points, but he seems to me to be somewhat inconsistent.
Marketing control rights and their distribution within technology licensing agreements: a real options perspective

Technology licensing continues to gain popularity as firms seek new sources of revenue from their product development activities. A key decision for the licensor involves whether to distribute marketing control rights associated with licensed technology on a more or less restrictive basis. Drawing on the real options literature, this paper argues that factors related to the top management mindset of the licensor and the marketing capabilities of the licensee impact the licensor’s distribution decision. A logit analysis of 129 technology licensing agreements within the pharmaceutical industry provides strong support for the hypothesized variables and broadens researchers’ understanding of an important marketing decision related to innovation management and the design of inter-firm relationships.
Differential baroreflex control of heart rate in sedentary and aerobically fit individuals

PURPOSE: We compared arterial, aortic, and carotid-cardiac baroreflex sensitivity in eight average fit (maximal oxygen uptake, VO2max = 42.2+/-1.9 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1)) and eight high fit (VO2max = 61.9+/-2.2 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1)) healthy young adults. METHODS: Arterial and aortic (ABR) baroreflex functions were assessed utilizing hypo- and hyper-tensive challenges induced by graded bolus injections of sodium nitroprusside (SN) and phenylephrine (PE), respectively. Carotid baroreflex (CBR) sensitivity was determined using ramped 5-s pulses of both pressure and suction delivered to the carotid sinus via a neck chamber collar, independent of drug administration. RESULTS: During vasoactive drug injection, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was similarly altered in average fit (AF) and high fit (HF) groups. However, the heart rate (HR) response range of the arterial baroreflex was significantly attenuated (P < 0.05) in HF (31+/-4 beats x min(-1)) compared with AF individuals (46+/-4 beats x min(-1)). When sustained neck suction and pressure were applied to counteract altered carotid sinus pressure during SN and PE administration, isolating the ABR response, the response range remained diminished (P < 0.05) in the HF population (24+/-3 beats x min(-1)) compared with the AF group (41+/-4 beats x min(-1)). During CBR perturbation, the HF (14+/-1 beats-min(-1)) and AF (16+/-1 beats-min(-1)) response ranges were similar. The arterial baroreflex response range was significantly less than the simple sum of the CBR and ABR (HF, 38+/-3 beats x min(-1) and AF, 57+/-4 beats x min(-1)) in both fitness groups. CONCLUSIONS: These data confirm that reductions in arterial-cardiac reflex sensitivity are mediated by diminished ABR function. More importantly, these data suggest that the integrative relationship between the ABR and CBR contributing to arterial baroreflex control of HR is inhibitory in nature and not altered by exercise training.
Compact high-field superconducting quadrupole magnet with holmium poles

Abstract A compact high-field superconducting quadrupole magnet was designed and built with poles made of the rare-earth metal holmium. The magnet is intended for use in superconducting coupled-cavity linear accelerators where compact high-field quadrupoles are needed, but where the use of permanent magnets is ruled out because of trapped-flux losses. The magnet has a clear bore diameter of 1.8 cm. outside diameter of 11 cm. length of 11 cm. and pole tip length of 6 cm. The effect of using holmium. a material with a higher saturation field than iron, was investigated by replacing poles ofde of iron with identical poles made of holmium. The magnet was operated at a temperature of 4.2 K and reached a peak quadrupole field gradient of 355 T/m. a 10% increase over the same magnet with iron poles. This increase in performance is consistent with calculations based on B–H curves that were measured for holmium at 4.2 K.
Conceptual system design evaluation: Rating and ranking versus compliance analysis

The conceptual design phase is a critical part of the systems engineering approach, in terms of commitment of both time and money. Structure and discipline at this time are fundamental to the efficient and effective development of competitive products and systems. However, the extent and resolution of information available during this phase, in the form of parameter values and priorities, is typically characterized by imprecision and subjectivity. Such uncertainty can be represented by fuzzy variables and linguistic values. Discrimination between competing product concepts thus necessitates identification of a defuzzification technique to allow comparison of imprecise requirements with imprecise expected values for conceptual alternatives. Since fuzzy numbers do not exhibit complete order, many existing defuzzification techniques are based on the philosophy of rating and ranking fuzzy sets. This paper argues that a defuzzification technique based on the degree of compliance between required and anticipated parameter values is more suited to concept evaluation and selection. The advantage of such an approach is demonstrated and a fuzzy logic based framework for this purpose is proposed. Finally, techniques for accelerating such a compliance analysis are suggested. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 7: 338–351, 2004
Bilateral Metal Stents for Hilar Biliary Obstruction Using a 6Fr Delivery System: Outcomes Following Bilateral and Side-by-Side Stent Deployment

Background and Study Aim Controversy exists on optimal endoscopic management for palliation of malignant hilar obstruction, with advocates for metal “side-by-side” (SBS) and “stent-in-stent” (SIS) techniques. We sought to evaluate the technical feasibility, efficacy, and outcomes of bilateral biliary self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) for treatment of malignant hilar obstruction using a stent with a 6Fr delivery system.
Three Dimensional Transient Analysis of Superconducting Generators

Techniques for the transient analysis of a superconducting alternator are described. These techniques are based upon a three dimensional analysis. This transient simulation technique is felt to be a significant improvement over previous techniques which are based upon two-dimensional or quasi two-dimensional analyses. Typical simulation results are presented.
Using discordance to improve classification in narrative clinical databases: An application to community-acquired pneumonia

Data mining in electronic medical records may facilitate clinical research, but much of the structured data may be miscoded, incomplete, or non-specific. The exploitation of narrative data using natural language processing may help, although nesting, varying granularity, and repetition remain challenges. In a study of community-acquired pneumonia using electronic records, these issues led to poor classification. Limiting queries to accurate, complete records led to vastly reduced, possibly biased samples. We exploited knowledge latent in the electronic records to improve classification. A similarity metric was used to cluster cases. We defined discordance as the degree to which cases within a cluster give different answers for some query that addresses a classification task of interest. Cases with higher discordance are more likely to be incorrectly classified, and can be reviewed manually to adjust the classification, improve the query, or estimate the likely accuracy of the query. In a study of pneumonia-in which the ICD9-CM coding was found to be very poor-the discordance measure was statistically significantly correlated with classification correctness (.45; 95% CI .15-.62).
Comparison of Coronary Vessel Contouring Using Non-Contrast Cardiac Gated CT Versus CT Angiogram

breast conserving surgery among patients with pN1a breast cancer. Prospective studies to further investigate the potential benefit of adjuvant radiation therapy to supraclavicular area or internal mammary region in these women are warranted. Author Disclosure: E. Jwa: None. S. Kim: None. S. Ahn: None. S. Kim: None. J. Ahn: None. K. Jung: None. B. Son: None. S. Ahn: None. J. Lee: None. E. Choi: None. J. Kim: None. S. Lee: None. Y. Kim: None. J. Park: None. S. Yoon: None. S. Song: None.
Photodynamic therapy inhibits the injury-induced fibrotic response of vascular smooth muscle cells.

Objectives: excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins plays a key role in the intervention-related vascular fibroproliferative response, resulting in intimal hyperplasia (IH). Cytokines, such as Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), released after vascular injury and deposited in the ECM, are known to stimulate production of matrix proteins. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), the combination of light and a photosensitive dye to produce free radicals, is a novel approach to inhibit experimental IH by the local eradication of smooth-muscle cells (SMC) and alteration of ECM. This in vitro study examined whether PDT can inhibit the fibrotic response of vascular SMC. Materials and methods: the effect of PDT on important pro-fibrotic factors was determined by performing PDT of isolated ECM, injured SMC and pure PDGF. SMC production of collagen was monitored by cellular [3H]-proline incorporation. Results: untreated SMC seeded on ECM demonstrated an increase of 50% in collagen production ( p <0.0001) as compared to SMC on an empty plate. This increase was also seen when SMC was incubated with the conditioned media of mechanically injured SMC, or pure PDGF. However, after PDT of ECM, injured SMC or PDGF, there was an inhibition of 40% ( p <0.05) in SMC-collagen production.Conclusions: these findings indicate that PDT can interfere with factors that lead to the vascular fibrotic response. In this way, PDT, with its cytotoxic and extracellular effects, can promote healing of the vessel wall without the stimulus of fibrosis that can lead to restenosis.
Coronary Arterial Calcium and Outcomes

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Identifying individuals at risk for cardiovascular events facilitates the earlier initiation of preventive therapies of at-risk individuals. While many risk scores and algorithms aimed at identifying individuals at increased risk for events are commonly used in clinical practice, their ability to correctly identify individuals who will experience a cardiovascular event is limited. Coronary artery calcium scoring is a noninvasive method of quantifying the burden of coronary atherosclerosis and has been demonstrated to improve the risk prediction of individuals above and beyond traditional risk factors.
Image-guided cardiac resynchronization.

Aims To facilitate placement of left ventricular leads during cardiac resynchronization therapy system implantation. Methods and results Preoperative magnetic resonance images of the left ventricle were rapidly integrated into the operative field, without compromise to standard workflow. The information contained in the images was used by the surgeon to guide implantation of the left ventricular lead. Conclusion This technique may have promise for improving resynchronization outcomes by facilitating more optimal left ventricular lead positioning.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome in rats: neural and behavioral correlates.

Abstract Rats were chronically implanted with electrodes in the ventral hippocampus, amygdala and anterior cortex and maintained on liquid diets as their only source of calories and fluid for 15 days. The diet consisted of 35–40% of the calories in the form of ethanol while a control group was pair-fed identical diets with sucrose isocalorically substituted for ethanol. On the sixteenth day the diets were removed and electrographic activity and behavior were simulataneously observed for 8–10 hr. Withdrawal symptoms were observed beginning 2–4 hr following alcohol abstinence and included tail-stiffening, tremors, severe ataxia and auditory-induced convulsions. EEG epileptiform activity was observed and initially consisted of transient spike events, which usually became progressively organized into brief spike burst sor sustained paroxysmal activity. The results suggested that cortical bioelecric activity may not play a primary role in the genesis of behavioral hyperexcitability during alcohol withdrawal. The utility of the method of combined observations of neural bioelectric activity and behavior for the delineation of the neural substrates of alcohol withdrawal symptoms was discussed.
Dynamic modeling of the 2004 Mw 6.0 Parkfield, California, earthquake

[1] We present two spontaneous rupture models of the 2004 Mw 6.0 Parkfield earthquake constrained by near-source ground motions. We start with a stress drop distribution calculated from a kinematic slip distribution. Using a linear slip-weakening friction law, we utilize trial and error to obtain both the stress conditions and frictional parameters on the fault that produce synthetics consistent with records. The material contrast across the San Andreas Fault is incorporated using different one-dimensional velocity structures on each side of the fault. An approximately constant S parameter of 0.3 and a uniform slip-weakening distance of 0.15 m are used in the dynamic models. In our preferred dynamic model, consistent with the ground motion and GPS, the slip is bounded by seismicity streaks at 5 and 10 km depths, confirming a locked zone at depth. The stress drop is approximately 10 MPa in the hypocentral region and about 2 MPa elsewhere. The material contrast across the fault causes significant normal stress variations (∼1 MPa), leading to a larger strength drop to the southeast than to the northwest. The main rupture front propagates at nearly a constant subshear rupture velocity ∼3 km/s in both directions. The total radiated energy determined from the preferred dynamic model is 1.1 × 1013 J, seismic moment is 1.0 × 1018 Nm, and fracture energy is 3.0 × 1013 J. The limited number of aftershocks in the slipped area suggests the important role of stress on the distribution of seismicity in the locked zone.
Effectiveness of esophageal dilation for symptomatic cricopharyngeal bar

Background The cricopharyngeal (CP) bar is an uncommon but important cause of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD). Treatment options include CP myotomy, which can be problematic, because CP bars primarily occur in elderly patients who are at higher risk for perioperative complications. The effectiveness of esophageal dilation for patients with symptoms caused by a CP bar is not well studied. Methods A review of medical records (1999 to 2002) identified 32 patients with CP bar. Six of these patients who had OPD that could only be attributed to a CP bar underwent EGD and dilation with either over-the-guidewire polyvinyl dilators (5) or a balloon (1). Observations All 6 patients experienced immediate relief of dysphagia. Five had continued improvement at short-term follow-up (1 to 4 weeks). Three patients still had complete resolution of dysphagia at long-term follow-up (range 8 to 27 months). Conclusions CP bar is an important cause of dysphagia in elderly patients. Esophageal dilation of a CP bar can produce long-term relief of dysphagia.
Medication adherence in schizophrenia

Antipsychotic medications enable many individuals with schizophrenia to live more rewarding and productive lives. However, this benefit hinges on patients taking medications as prescribed, and as many as half of all patients exhibit some degree of treatment nonadherence. The current review summarizes the results of a survey on medication nonadherence that was completed by 41 experts in the field. Results confirm the prevalence of the problem, and provide practical guidance for clinicians on measurement and management of nonadherence.
Is Deep Zone Tillage Agronomically Viable in Minnesota

Deep zone tillage is a strategy used to alleviate compaction problems, including plow pans, and to improve internal drainage. Midwestern soils do not typically form a defined plow pan under normal production practices. Despite lack of scientific evidence for yield benefits associated with deep tillage, it is still used in Minnesota as a low cost alternative to tile drainage. To evaluate the soil and economic impact of deep zone tillage on crop yield when a restrictive layer is lacking, a 20-acre field was deep zone tilled to a 20-inch depth, every other 12 rows at 30-inch spacing. After zone tilling, the entire field was ridge tilled. Ridge tillage confines wheel traffic to the same rows, reducing the percent of the field trafficked. All crop and soil measurements were collected in the depressional and upland areas of the field to distinguish if zone till is of benefit in different landscape areas. Crop yields were measured for two seasons following zone tilling a ridge-tilled field. Zone till failed to increase corn and soybean yields. A restrictive layer was not observed in this field and as a result, potential economic losses occurred due to deep zone tillage.
Heparin metabolism and heparin-released lipase activity during long-term estrogen-progestin treatment.

Short-term oral contraceptive therapy has been reported to decrease postheparin lipolytic activity (PHLA). Resistance to heparin has been held responsible for this effect. To test several alternative explanations, we studied both PHLA and heparin concentrations in nine control women and nine women receiving long-term estrogen-progestin therapy after they were given heparin intravenously (10 units/kg). There were no significant differences in the concentration of heparin, its rate of disappearance, or calculated space of distribution between control and treated groups. PHLA was depressed (p less than 0.05) by approximately 50% during long-term estrongen-progestin therapy. PHLA disappearance was similar in both groups. Thus, reduced PHLA in women receiving long-term oral contraceptive therapy cannot be related to altered heparin metabolism or to accelerated enzyme disappearance from plasma. Long-term estrogen-progestin administration may decrease the heparin-facilitated release of individual triglyceride hydrolase activities or enhance the affinity of enzyme binding to tissues.
Microscopic shape from focus using a projected illumination pattern

Since its invention, the optical microscope has been used primarily as a device to view and image biological and industrial samples. This paper presents a technique for recovering the three-dimensional shapes of microscopic samples by focus analysis. Shape from focus relies on surface texture for the computation of depth. In many real-world applications, surfaces can be smooth and lacking in detectable texture. In such cases, shape from focus generates inaccurate and sparse depth maps. This paper presents a novel extension to previous shape from focus approaches. A strong texture is forced on imaged surfaces by the use of active illumination. The pattern of the active illumination is determined through a careful Fourier analysis of all the optical and computational elements involved in focus analysis. When the focus operator used is a 2D Laplacian, the optimal illumination pattern is found to be a checkerboard, whose pitch equals the distance between adjacent weights in the discrete Laplacian kernel. This analysis also reveals the minimum number of images required for accurate shape recovery. These results are experimentally verified using a fully automated microscopic shape from focus system. The shapes of samples lacking in texture, such as three-dimensional structures on silicon substrates and solder joints on circuit boards were recovered with high precision using the developed system. The results demonstrate that the derived illumination pattern is in fact optimal, and facilitates accurate shape recovery of complex and pertinent industrial samples.
A Conceptual Framework for Apparel Design

To encourage students to think of designing garments for special needs as part of a general designframework, a problem-solving approach that does not distinguish between functional apparel design a...
Application of ellipsometry to oxidation studies of binary titanium-aluminum alloys☆

Abstract An in situ test cell and auxiliary apparatus was constructed for the purpose of making ellipsometer measurements on bulk metals and alloys in vacuum and in pure and premixed gases. Contamination on freshly polished surfaces of titanium and titanium-aluminum alloys is substantially reduced by heating, in vacuum, to 177°C. The computed refractive index and absorption coefficient for pure titanium after this treatment agrees reasonably well with published data. The refractive indices of similarly heated titanium-aluminum alloys are greater than that of pure titanium. The optical constants are quite dependent on the thickness of the oxide layer in the range between 40–250 A. The reproducibility of change in thickness versus time profiles is very good and indicates that a meaningful comparison of oxidation rates for various alloys can be made.
Early tracheostomy versus late tracheostomy in the surgical intensive care unit.

Background This study’s purpose was to determine if early tracheostomy (ET) of severely injured patients reduces days of ventilatory support, the frequency of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and surgical intensive care unit (SICU) length of stay (LOS). Methods This 2-year retrospective review included 185 SICU patients with acute injuries requiring mechanical ventilation and tracheostomy. ET was defined as 7 days or less, and late tracheostomy (LT) as more than 7 days. Results The incidence of VAP was significantly higher in the LT group, relative to the ET group (42.3% vs. 27.2%, respectively; P <.05). Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores, hospital and SICU LOS, and the number of ventilator days were significantly higher in the LT group. Conclusions In patients who required prolonged mechanical ventilation, there was significant decreased incidence of VAP, less ventilator time, and lower ICU LOS when tracheostomy was performed within 7 days after admission to the SICU.
New constraints on the HIMU mantle from neon and helium isotopic compositions of basalts from the Cook–Austral Islands

High 4He/3He ratios of 100 000 to 160 000 found at HIMU ocean islands (“high μ,” where μ is the U/Pb ratio) are usually attributed to the presence of recycled oceanic crust in the HIMU mantle source. However, significantly higher 4He/3He ratios are expected in recycled crust after residence in the mantle for periods greater than 1 Ga. In order to better understand the helium isotopic signatures in HIMU basalts, we have measured helium and neon isotopic compositions in a suite of geochemically well-characterized basalts from the Cook–Austral Islands. We observe 4He/3He ratios ranging from 56 000 to 141 000, suggesting the involvement of mantle reservoirs both more and less radiogenic than the mantle source for mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORBs). In addition, we find that the neon isotopic compositions of HIMU lavas extend from the MORB range to compositions less nucleogenic than MORBs. The Cook-Austral HIMU He–Ne isotopic compositions, along with Sr, Nd, Pb, and Os isotopic compositions, indicate that in addition to recycled crust, a relatively undegassed mantle end-member (e.g., FOZO) is involved in the genesis of these basalts. The association of relatively undegassed mantle material with recycled crust provides an explanation for the close geographical association between HIMU lavas and EM (enriched mantle)-type lavas from this island chain: EM-type signatures represent a higher mixing proportion of relatively undegassed mantle material. Mixing between recycled material and relatively undegassed mantle material may be a natural result of entrainment processes and convective stirring in deep mantle.
Role of deadenylation and AUF1 binding in the pH-responsive stabilization of glutaminase mRNA.

During chronic metabolic acidosis, increased expression of renal glutaminase (GA) results from selective stabilization of the GA mRNA. This response is mediated by a direct repeat of an 8-base aden...
On absorbing boundary conditions for wave propagation

Abstract This paper is concerned with the development of methods for constructing stable artificial boundary conditions for wavelike equations in a general and automatic way. The one-dimensional problem of a semi-infinite, inhomogeneous, elastic bar is studied here as a prototype situation. For this problem a family of efficient artificial boundary conditions is obtained using geometrical optics in the Laplace transform domain for generating outgoing solutions, together with a stability criterion based on energy integrals to insure that the resulting artificial boundaries are dissipative. Numerical examples illustrate the efficacy of this approach. The paper also includes some remarks about the extension of the proposed method to a more general two-dimensional situation.
Accuracy of trauma ultrasound in major pelvic injury

Background:Trauma ultrasound (US) utilizing the focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) is often performed to detect traumatic free peritoneal fluid (FPF). Yet its accuracy is unclear in certain trauma subgroups such as those with major pelvic fractures whose emergent diagnostic and ther
Dietary Amino Acids and Blood Pressure: A Cohort Study of Patients With Cardiovascular Disease

Background Dietary protein has been variably reported to either lower or raise blood pressure. The purpose of this study was to determine whether intakes of specific amino acids differentially associate with blood pressure. Study Design Observational cohort study by secondary analysis of clinical trial data. Setting & Participants Study of low-fat versus Mediterranean-style diets in patients with prevalent cardiovascular disease. Predictor Dietary amino acids. Outcomes Systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Measurements Dietary nutrients and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed at baseline, 3 and 6 months, and then every 6 months for 2 years. Results Baseline blood pressure was 119 ± 16 (SD)/72 ± 10 (SD) mm Hg (n = 92) and dietary protein intake was 80 ± 31 g/d. Independent amino acid variables (quartiles of intake) were analyzed by generalized estimating equation models with prespecified covariates for time-varying systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The odds of each 1-SD higher systolic or diastolic blood pressure (ie, 16 and 10 mm Hg, respectively) were increased per quartile of intake for methionine (ORs of 1.29 [95% CI, 1.14-1.46] and 1.21 [95% CI, 1.05-1.39], respectively) and alanine (ORs of 1.17 [95% CI, 1.05-1.30] and 1.22 [95% CI, 1.07-1.38], respectively). Quartiles of intake for threonine (ORs of 0.84 [95% CI, 0.74-0.96] and 0.87 [95% CI, 0.75-1.01], respectively) and histidine (ORs of 0.92 [95% CI, 0.86-1.00] and 0.89 [95% CI, 0.82-0.97], respectively) had inverse associations with the same degree of difference in blood pressure. Limitations Modest sample-size biases toward the chance of false-negative results; potential for residual confounding; colinearity between amino acids may obscure relevant relationships to blood pressure; associational findings do not establish causality. Conclusions Intakes of methionine and alanine were associated positively with higher blood pressure, whereas intakes of threonine and histidine had inverse associations. These amino acids merit further study for advancing dietary approaches to blood pressure reduction.
Priming of Polymorphonuclear Neutrophilic Leukocyte Oxidative Activity by Type 1 Pili from Escherichia coli

Preincubation of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes with free whole type 1 pili derived from Escherichia coli or with subunits of type 1 pili significantly augmented subsequent stimulation of cellular oxygen uptake by formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, concanavalin A, opsonized zymosan, or latex particles coated with whole type 1 pili. No such priming of leukocyte activation occurred if phorbol myristate acetate was used as a stimulant or if bovine serum albumin was substituted for the type 1 pili preparations. When free in solution, neither pili preparation directly stimulated cellular oxidative metabolism. Type 1 pili-mediated priming was not inhibited by polymyxin B, by mannose congeners, or by boiling the pili preparations but was prevented by trypsinization of the pili. This priming property indicates a further means by which type 1 pili may modulate the inflammatory response of the host and provides another tool that can be used to dissect the relationship between the structure and function of type 1 pili and to characterize leukocyte receptors for these pili.
The structural basis for the remarkable catalytic proficiency of orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylase

Abstract The three-dimensional structures of orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylases from four different organisms have been determined by X-ray crystallography. The structures reveal an active site in which the pyrimidine base and phosphate groups are rigidly held in place. Surprisingly, both pyrimidine carbonyl groups are hydrogen bonded to amide groups, rather than to strong active site acids, as was previously predicted. The positioning of a conserved aspartate sidechain close to the substrate carboxylate and a conserved lysine ammonium group close to the C6 of the pyrimidine suggests a novel mechanism to explain the extreme catalytic proficiency of this enzyme.
A study of so-called 'retrograde fine-grain' degeneration in the thalamus.

Summary Following lesions of the neocortex a uniform dust-like silver deposit may appear in certain thalamic nuclei stained with the Nauta or Fink-Heimer methods. Because this deposit lacks the characteristic morphology of axons undergoing Wallerian degeneration and often appears in regions of retrograde cell degeneration, it has been interpreted as a retrograde reaction7,15. The present study, however, employing reduced silver and autoradiographic techniques, suggests that this silver deposit is an anterograde rather than a retrograde phenomenon. In cats with lesions of the posterior cingulate and presubicular cortex the Fink-Heimer method showed the fine-grain silver deposit in the lateralis dorsalis (LD) and the anteroventral nucleus (AV). The ‘dust’ was densest in the dorsomedial zones of the anteroventral nucleus. After the survival times used (6–8 days) no retrograde perikaryal changes were seen in these nuclei. In other cats, 3 weeks after injections of radioactive proline in the posterior cingulate cortex, the distribution of the label in the LD and AV nuclei was almost identical to the distribution of the ‘dust’ in the Fink-Heimer sections. Since the autoradiographic method reveals anterograde transport, it appears that both methods are demonstrating corticofugal axons. Thus it is suggested that the ‘fine-grain’ degeneration arises from an anterograde not a retrograde reaction.
Lentiviral vif : Viral hijacker of the ubiquitin-proteasome system

Since the beginning of time, microorganisms have been devising ways to bypass detection and destruction by our immune system. Therefore, it is no surprise that along with the identification of the cellular antiviral protein APOBEC3G (A3G) has come the recognition of the viral solution to this assault. Here, we review the research that led up to the identification of A3G and the mechanism that the human immunodeficiency virus protein Vif developed to evade A3G's antiviral activities.
Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles for varistor application using Zn-substituted aerosol ot microemulsion

This paper describes a new method for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using ethanol-in-oil microemulsions with Zn-DEHSS (diethylhexyl sulfosuccinate) as surfactant. The zinc oxide nanoparticles find application in varistors and other functional devices. These particles have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, TEM, and BET surface area. Microemulsion droplets were characterized by quasi elastic light scattering (QELS). Varistors formed from doped zinc oxide nanoparticles finds application as low voltage surge devices with low leakage current and high coefficient of nonlinearity (α). In this paper, we have shown that the critical voltage of the varistor is related to the grain size which is related to size of ZnO particles. The smaller ZnO particles lead to larger grain size, thereby lowering the critical voltage.
Nurse practitioner's characteristics and job satisfaction.

Purpose: To identify the demographics and job satisfaction levels of currently working nurse practitioners (NPs) in California. Data sources: The Mueller McCloskey Satisfaction Scale (MMSS) was mailed to a random sample of 200 California NPs with active licensure. Descriptive analysis was employed. Conclusions: The NPs reported high levels of job satisfaction according to the MMSS. Aspects of the job that showed significant levels of satisfaction were schedules, flexibility of hours, and interprofessional relationships. NPs were least satisfied with not having professional opportunities such as participation in nursing research, writing/publishing, and belonging to a department/nursing committee. Implications for practice: The findings may be used to guide NP recruitment and retention strategies, influence practice issues, and facilitate job satisfaction for NPs by employing agencies.
Erythropoiesis and myocardial energy requirements contribute to the hypermetabolism of childhood sickle cell anemia.

Objectives: We hypothesized that an elevated hemoglobin synthesis rate (SynHb) and myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2) contribute to the excess protein and energy metabolism reported in children with sickle cell anemia. Patients and Methods: Twelve children (6–12 years old) with asymptomatic sickle cell and 9 healthy children matched for age and sex were studied. Measurements were whole-body protein turnover by [1- 13 C]leucine, SynHb by [ 15 N]glycine, resting energy expen- diture by indirect calorimetry and the systolic blood pressure–heart rate product used as an index of MVO2. Protein energy cost was calculated from protein turnover. Statistical analysis included Spearman correlations and partial correlation analyses. Results: Although body mass index was significantly lower for sickle cell versus controls (P < 0.02), children with asymptomatic sickle cell had 52% higher protein turnover (P < 0.0005). Proportional reticulocyte count, SynHb, MVO2 and resting energy expenditure were also significantly higher in children with sickle cell (P < 0.01). Protein turnover correlated significantly with both SynHb (r ¼ 0.63, P < 0.01) and reticulocyte percentage (r ¼ 0.83, P < 0.0001). Partial correlation of these 3 variables showed reticulocyte percentage as the only variable to be significantly associatedwithproteinturnover, even after adjustingforsickle cell anemia (P ¼ 0.03). Partial correlation of log resting energy expenditure on MVO2 was significant, controlling for protein energy cost, sex and age (P ¼ 0.03). Conclusion: These results indicate that metabolic demands of increased erythropoiesis and cardiac energy consumption account for much of the excess protein and energy metabolism in children with sickle cell anemia. JPGN 43:680–687, 2006.
Steel Hexagonal Honeycomb Core Equivalent Elastic Moduli for Bridge Deck Sandwich Panels

Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) materials possess inherently high strength-to-weight ratios, but their effective elastic moduli are low relative to civil engineering (CE) construction materials. While elastic modulus may be comparable to that of some CE materials, the lower shear modulus adversely affects stiffness. As a result, serviceability issues are what govern GFRP deck design in the CE bridge industry. An innovative solution to increase the stiffness of a commercial GFRP reinforced-sinusoidal honeycomb sandwich panel was proposed; this solution would completely replace the GFRP honeycomb core with a hexagonal honeycomb core constructed from commercial steel roof decking. The purpose of this study was to perform small-scale tests to characterize the steel hexagonal honeycomb core equivalent elastic moduli in an effort to simplify the modeling of the core. The steel core equivalent moduli experimental results were compared with theoretical hexagonal honeycomb elastic modulus equations from the literature, demonstrating the applicability of the theoretical equations to the steel honeycomb core. Core equivalent elastic modulus equations were then proposed to model and characterize the steel hexagonal honeycomb as applicable to sandwich panel design. The equivalent honeycomb core will enable an efficient sandwich panel stiffness design technique, both for structural analysis methods (i.e., hand calculations) and finite-element analysis procedures.
MAVEN information security governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC): Lessons learned

As the first interplanetary mission managed by the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) had three IT security goals for its ground system: COMPLIANCE, (IT) RISK REDUCTION, and COST REDUCTION. In a multi-organizational environment in which government, industry and academia work together in support of the ground system and mission operations, information security governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) becomes a challenge as each component of the ground system has and follows its own set of IT security requirements. These requirements are not necessarily the same or even similar to each other's, making the auditing of the ground system security a challenging feat. A combination of standards-based information security management based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Risk Management Framework (RMF), due diligence by the Mission's leadership, and effective collaboration among all elements of the ground system enabled MAVEN to successfully meet NASA's requirements for IT security, and therefore meet Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) mandate on the Agency. Throughout the implementation of GRC on MAVEN during the early stages of the mission development, the Project faced many challenges some of which have been identified in this paper. The purpose of this paper is to document these challenges, and provide a brief analysis of the lessons MAVEN learned. The historical information documented herein, derived from an internal pre-launch lessons learned analysis, can be used by current and future missions and organizations implementing and auditing GRC.
N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase activity within BAL from macaques exposed to generic coal dusts

N-acetyl-beta(β)-D-glucosaminidase is a lysosomal enzyme secreted by alveolar macrophages in response to phagocytosis of particulate material. Alveolar macrophages participate in the degradation and fibrosis of pulmonary tissue that results in pneumoconiosis. Known quantities of four characterized respirable dusts were bronchoscopically placed into the right caudal lung lobe of macaque monkeys. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were collected from dust-exposed right lung and unexposed left lung of the same individuals at 2-week intervals for 12 weeks after dust instillation. The samples were tested for N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase activity to determine if the enzyme levels could serve as an indicator of pulmonary injury induced by generic coal dusts when compared to known fibrogenic and nuisance dusts. Installation of generic quartz, anthracite, or TiO2 dusts produced significant elevations of enzyme activity and increased numbers of macrophages in the dust-exposed lobes. Elevations in enzymatic activity and macrophage numbers were greatest in response to generic quartz dust. These results suggest that quantitative levels of N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase activity may be a useful indicator of acute and chronic lung injury following exposure to fibrogenic and nonfibrogenic dusts.
Resolving the Gating Charge Movement Associated with Late Transitions in K Channel Activation

Abstract We examined the late transitions in the activation sequence of potassium channels by analyzing gating currents of mutant Shaker IR channels and using the potassium channel blocker 4-aminopyridine (4AP). Gating currents were recorded from a double mutant of Shaker that was nonconducting (W434F mutation) and had the late gating transitions shifted to the right on the voltage axis (L382C mutation), thus separating the late transitions from the early ones. 4AP applied to the double mutant blocked the final transition and made possible novel observations of the isolated intermediate transitions, the ones that immediately precede the final opening of the channel. These transitions, which have not been well characterized previously, produce a distinct fast component in the gating current tails. Two intermediate transitions contribute to the fast component and carry 23% of the total gating charge. The effect of 4AP is well modeled as a selective block of the final gating transition, which opens the channel. The final transition contributes ∼5% of the total gating charge.