cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endothelial progenitor cells, neointimal hyperplasia, and hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction: novel therapies for a recalcitrant clinical problem.

Vascular stenosis as a result of neointimal hyperplasia is a major clinical problem that has an impact on multiple and diverse disciplines, including cardiology (coronary restenosis), cardiothoracic and vascular surgery (saphenous vein and polytetrafluoroethylene [PTFE] graft failure), neurology (carotid stenosis), nephrology (dialysis access dysfunction), and transplant medicine (chronic allograft rejection in hearts and kidneys). The traditional response to injury hypothesis on the pathogenesis of neointimal hyperplasia focuses on the migration of medial smooth muscle cells from the media into the intima.1 Recently, there has been a great deal of excitement about the role of circulating smooth muscle progenitor cells in the pathogenesis of neointimal hyperplasia. These cells have been identified in a variety of experimental models of vascular injury,2 and interventions that reduce the number of these cells can attenuate neointimal hyperplasia. In marked contrast to the deleterious effects of smooth muscle progenitor cells on neointimal hyperplasia, circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are believed to play an important role in vascular repair and in the inhibition of neointimal hyperplasia.3 See p 12 In this issue of Circulation , Rotmans and colleagues have attempted to achieve the “holy grail” for a vascular access procedure: rapid and complete endothelialization.4 Their experiments are based on a newly developed technique that can coat the surface of stent and graft material with antibodies against CD34 (Orbus Medical Technologies). CD34 is a marker for hematopoietic stem cells, and previous research has demonstrated that coronary stents coated with anti-CD34 have a significant increase in endothelialization as early as 1 hour after deployment because of the binding of circulating CD34+ cells, which then differentiate into endothelial cells.5 Placement of anti-CD34–coated grafts in an arteriovenous model of PTFE graft stenosis by Rotmans et al resulted in almost complete endothelialization of the grafts (both …
Gender patterns in African American and white adolescents' social interactions in same-race, mixed-gender groups

Gender-related interaction patterns on a cooperative problem-solving task were compared in African American and White mixed-gender groups of adolescents, matched on age, socioeconomic status, and school achievement. Hierarchically nested analyses of variance revealed significant interaction effects indicating greater gender equality in the African American groups than in the White groups for a composite measure of all variables, for the measure of level of activity, and for 1 of 2 measures of level of influence, but not for measures of speech form. Post hoc analyses revealed significant gender differences in the White groups for the composite measure, the level of influence measures, 1 speech-form measure, and the level of activity measure (nearly significant) and in the African American groups only for 2 speech-form measures. Results are discussed in terms of social role theory.
Elasticity and equation of state of MgSiO3 perovskite

The elastic constants and equation of state of MgSiO3 perovskite and MgO are calculated as functions of pressure and temperature using the potential induced breathing (PIB) model, which is an ab initio model in the sense that no experimental data are used. Excellent agreement with experiment is found for the equation of state of perovskite. The calculated thermal expansivity is lower than determined experimentally. PIB provides pressure derivatives of elastic constants that are probably more accurate than experimental results, so that PIB pressure derivatives may be used with experimental elastic moduli when these become available for MgSiO3 perovskite. A fourth-order finite strain equation is required to fit the elastic moduli, since the shear modulus has only a small pressure dependence at high pressures. The calculated elastic properties are used to discuss the composition of the lower mantle. The results are consistent with a lower mantle composition enriched in Fe.
Spontaneous squamous cell carcinomas in 13 baboons, a first report in a spider monkey, and a review of the non-human primate literature.

Background Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a neoplastic proliferation of epithelial cells undergoing squamous differentiation and represents a diagnostic challenge in non-human primates (NHP), especially in baboons with perineal SCC. Methods Fourteen SCC (13 baboons, 1 spider monkey) were identified over a 20-year period. A literature search identified 86 additional published cases of spontaneous NHP SCC. Results Squamous cell carcinoma was most commonly reported in macaques, baboons, marmosets, and squirrel monkeys. Metastasis occurred in 23%, of NHP. The most frequently reported primary locations were the oral cavity, integument, esophagus, and cervix-uterus. Perineal SCC occurred mainly in baboons. All reported SCC in marmosets occurred in the head. Nasal cavity SCC was only reported in male marmosets. All reported pulmonary SCC occurred in males, mostly in tree shrews. Conclusions Squamous cell carcinoma is a common neoplasm in NHP and exhibits species differences. NHPs may provide a useful SCC animal model.
The effects of thin layers on the vertical distribution of the rotifer, Brachionus plicatilis

Microscale patches of resources occur in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions, and in the latter case are referred to as thin layers. These layers may affect ecological processes like behavior, predation, growth and reproduction in phytoplankton and zooplankton. The objective of this study was to determine possible effects of physical and biological thin layers on the vertical distribution and diel vertical migration of the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis. We used four, 2 m tall, experimental tanks fitted with video cameras which panned the vertical extent of each tank and enabled us to sample on the centimeter scale. The experimental tanks consisted of a thin layer (25 cm thick) of Nannochloropsis oculata, whereas control tanks consisted of homogeneously distributed algae. Rotifers aggregated in the thin layers of N. oculata, and dispersed (becoming evenly distributed) after depleting the algae within the thin layer (ca. 6 h). In contrast, rotifer aggregation in the physical thin layer of control tanks was shorter in duration (ca. 2.5 h) and rotifers were homogenously distributed for the remainder of the experiment despite persistent salinity stratification. No signs of diel vertical migration were noted in either experimental or control tanks. A second set of experiments was run to examine the response of rotifers to a choice of food, i.e., thin layers of the diatom, Skeletonema costatum versus the eustigmatophyte, N. oculata. For the choice experiments, two thin layers were created, one with each food option. Our results suggest that B. plicatilis aggregates and feeds preferentially on N. oculata over S. costatum. In both types of experiments rotifers responded, in terms of distribution, to thin layers of algae within the first half-hour of introduction and remained in the thin layers until the food source was depleted. Our results suggest that rotifers may be important grazers on thin layers because of their ability to quickly locate and take advantage of ephemeral food patches.
A pure-dephasing model for overtone lineshapes

Abstract A model is developed for calculatinq the pure-dephasing (T2) contribution to overtone lineshapes in isolated molecules. The linewidth is attributed to time-dependent fluctuations in the frequency of the overtone transition, resulting from the vibrational motions in the molecule, and no transfer of energy (intramolecular vibrational distribution) occurs in this picture. Numerical calculations for 2,3,5,6-paradeuterobenzene are presented.
Fast and easy reach-cone joint limits

We describe a simple and fast method of creating and using joint sinus reach cones to limit the range of motion on universal and ball-and-socket joints. Reach cones can be created interactively or based on results from biomechanics. A reach cone is specified as a spherical polygon on the surface of a reach sphere that defines all positions the longitudinal segment axis beyond the joint can take. Reach polygons can be concave or convex, and cover more than one hemisphere. Longitudinal axis rotation limits can also be defined for locations in the reach cone. Calculations to determine whether a segment is within the reach cone are based on the relation of the segment longitudinal axis to the planes defining the reach cone and are done in the local coordinate space of the segment. The calculations have no discernible effect on the speed of interactive display or animation.
REAL ADDITION AND THE POLYNOMIAL HIERARCHY

Abstract The k th alternation level of the theory of real numbers under addition and order is log-complete for the k th level of the polynomial hierarchy.
Internal rhythms in humans

Abstract Human physiology and behavior are characterized by a daily internal temporal dimension. This so-called circadian rhythmicity is present for almost all variables studied to date, persists in the absence of external cycles, and is synchronized to the external 24-h world by an internally generated circadian rhythm of light sensitivity. The light-sensitive circadian pacemaker, presumably also in humans located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, drives the endogenous circadian component of rhythmicity for a number of variables including plasma melatonin, alertness, sleep propensity and sleep structure. Overt rhythmicity and the consolidation of vigilance states are generated by a fine-tuned interaction of this circadian process with other regulatory processes such as sleep homeostasis.
The “Biglan model” and the smart messenger: A case study of eponym diffusion

The “Biglan model,” a classification system arraying academic fields and disciplines into eight cells, is frequently cited and has become a generally accepted new eponym in the field of higher education. Bibliographic indicators and co-citation patterns document that John Smart (and associates) introduced the eponym to the field, but he is never expressly acknowledged for the contribution. Over time, the eponym may be taking on new, more theoretical, meaning. As this eponym becomes further diffused throughout the literature, there are signs that citations to the Smart messenger may diminish, along with obliteration of the formal citation of Biglan. The disappearance of citations is not atypical, nor is it a violation of normal scholarly practices but, in fact, it undermines the veracity of typical bibliometric studies of intellectual influence structures.
Toward a developmental psychophysiology: my look into the crystal ball.

A number of problems in the area of developmental psychophysiology are presented. The first of these deals with the interpretation of orienting responses and their habituation, with special emphasis on the terminal OR. A second problem concerns the area of psychophysiological differentiation. A number of examples of such differentiation are elaborated.
Olfactory Dysfunction and Related Nutritional Risk in Free-Living, Elderly Women

Abstract Objective/design To determine the nutritional risk associated with measured olfactory dysfunction in free-living, elderly women through analytic observational methods. Olfactory perception was measured orthonasally (odor: butanol threshold and odor identification) and retronasally (flavor: orange flavor threshold in sweetened gelatin). Setting/subjects Elderly women were recruited from New Haven, Conn, through posters and direct contact. Screening of 120 elderly women identified 80 with high personal functioning to participate (mean age=76±6 years, range=65 to 93 years). All data were collected in subjects' homes. Main outcome measures Nutritional risk was assessed in several ways: food behavior questionnaire; food preference questionnaire; interviews based on the National Cancer Institute food frequency questionnaire; five nonconsecutive, 24-hour food records; and weight, height, waist, and hip measurements. Statistical analyses Correlation and regression analyses determined the separate association between olfactory perception and nutrition variables. Results Nearly half of the women (37 of 80) had olfactory dysfunction. The following nutritional risk pattern was associated with lower olfactory perception: lower interest in food-related activities (eg, enjoying cooking, eating a wide variety of foods); lower preference for foods with predominant sour/bitter taste (eg, citrus fruits) or pungency (eg, horseradish); higher intake of sweets; less intake of low-fat milk products; and nutrient intake profile indicative of higher risk for cardiac disease. Applications Olfactory dysfunction may make it more difficult for elderly women to maintain a diet to control risk for chronic disease. Practitioners should target nutrition intervention to elderly women with measured or self-rated difficulty in perceiving odors or olfactory flavor. Capitalizing on primary-taste quality and texture may help to compensate for the loss of olfactory flavor perception. J Am DietAssoc. 1995; 95:879-884 .
Characterization of dual-scale fiber mats for unsaturated flow in liquid composite molding

The drooping inlet-pressure history during 1D filling experiments has been used in the past to detect the onset of the unsaturated flow in certain stitched mats, called dual-scale mats, during mold-filling in liquid composite molding. In this study, one such triaxial stitched mat was tested for unsaturated flow and manifests the characteristic inlet-pressure droop that increases with fiber mat compression. A correlation between the previously proposed dimensionless numbers pore volume ratio (γ) and sink effect index (ψ) and the droop in the inlet pressure history was also sought. By studying the micrographs of the composite samples, γ and ψ were measured for the biaxial and triaxial stitched mats at various states of compression. The observation that the droop in the inlet-pressure profiles increase with an increase in γ and ψ establishes the two dimensionless numbers, along with the presence of straight channels aligned with the flow direction, as good predictors of the unsaturated flow in the dual-scale fiber mats. POLYM. COMPOS. 26:756–769, 2005. © 2005 Society of Plastics Engineers
Succession patterns following soil disturbance in a sagebrush steppe community

A study was begun in 1976 to measure succession patterns following soil disturbance within a sagebrush community in northwestern Colorado. The principal hypothesis was that type of disturbance affects the direction of succession, resulting in different plant communities over time. Successional dynamics were studied through 1988. Four types of soil disturbance resulted in 3 early seral communities: one dominated by grasses, one by annuals, and one intermediate. The annual-dominated communities were opportunistic on these sites, lasting 3-5 years and not determining the direction in which succession proceeded following their replacement. Twelve years after disturbance, 3 communities (one grass-dominated, one shrub-dominated, and one intermediate) occupied the site, the characteristics of which were functions of type of initial soil disturbance. For the period of time covered by this study (12 years), degree of disturbance was found to affect the direction of succession, resulting in different plant communities over time. There were, however, successional characteristics toward the end of the study that suggest that over a longer time period, succession might progress to a single community regardless of type of disturbance.
Principles and Strategies of Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

The judicious use of antibiotics is an important means to limit the emergence of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Although specific guidelines for neonates are often lacking, antibiotic stewardship principles can be applied to the neonatal intensive care unit. Principles include accurately identifying patients who need antibiotic therapy, using local epidemiology to guide the selection of empiric therapy, avoiding agents with overlapping activity, adjusting antibiotics when culture results become available, monitoring for toxicity, and optimizing the dose, route, and duration of therapy. Neonatal intensive care units should develop interdisciplinary antimicrobial stewardship teams with the support of their institutions. Prescriber audit and feedback, as well as preauthorization and formulary restriction of selected antibiotics, are recommended antimicrobial stewardship interventions. Ancillary strategies include education and computerized decision support. Metrics to evaluate antimicrobial stewardship programs should include measurements of patient safety and quality, such as rates of adverse drug events, and appropriate dosing and timing of perioperative prophylaxis.
Allergic encephalomyelitis: Enzymatic degradation of the encephalitogenic basic protein from bovine spinal cord☆

Abstract The basic protein encephalitogen, without, prior denaturation, was rapidly digested with such proteolytic enzymes as trypsin, pronase, chymotrypsin, and pepsin; from 80–90% of the proteolysis occurred within 1 hr. The number of peptides released by these enzymes after 2 hr were about 28, 54, 20, and 14, respectively. Each proteolytic digest was chromatographed on Sephadex G-25 and G-75 in order to separate the peptides from large partially digested material. Only the peptide fractions obtained from the pepsin digestion possessed significant activity in inducing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE). One of the peptide fractions had higher encephalitogenic activity, on a weight basis, than either the original protein or the unfractionated digest. In contrast, the chymotryptic digest, while lacking encephalitogenic activity, possessed antibody-combining activity as shown by the Ouchterlony and passive hemagglutination-inhibition (PHI) test. The pepsin digest produced peptides which gave a negative Ouchterlony test. The tryptic peptides were negative in all tests—Ouchterlony, PHI, and EAE induction. These results suggest that the encephlitogenic and antibody-combining activities reside in separate or overlapping regions of the polypeptide chain. The retention of encephalitogenic activity in relatively small pepsin peptides further suggests that the EAE determinant may be defined by a region of the polypeptide chain lacking a folded tertiary structure.
Pump-probe optical coherence tomography imaging of Zenopus tadpole vasculature ex vivo

We present a novel Pump-Probe Optical Coherence Tomography (PPOCT) system, capable of imaging both methylene blue and hemoglobin. Ex vivo images of Zenopus tadpole vasculature were obtained using hemoglobin as the contrast agent.
CYCLIC PENTAOXY SILICONATES1,2

Abstract Spirocyclic pentaoxy anionic silicates are synthesized and their molecular structures determined by X-ray diffraction. The K, 18-crown-6 salt of [(OCMe2CMe2O)2SiO-t-Bu] (1), formed from the reaction of the bis-pinacol spirosilicate and potassium t-butoxide, represents a new substance. Both the butylammonium salts, [(OCMe2CMe2O)2SiOR][n-BuNH3] R = OEt (2); R = OMe (3), have structures considerably displaced from a trigonal bipyramid toward a rectangular pyramid, 38.9% for 2 and 71.2% for 3, compared to 24.1% for 1. Hydrogen bonding is implicated in accounting for the greater structural displacement of 2 and 3. These pentaoxy derivatives represent the first members of this class that have been structurally characterized. Comparisons with related five-coordinated silicon and phosphorus compounds support their use as models in nucleophilic substitution reactions.
Pin-retained gold foil

Use of stainless steel threaded pins in retaining gold foil restorations is described and illustrated. Three case reports are presented demonstrating the use of these pins in atypical Class IV, V, and VI defects. Esthetic, durable restorations can be made in a minimal amount of time by use of this method.
Models of cardiac fibrosis

Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathologic finding in several cardiac myopathic diseases. Clinical implications of the presence of fibrosis are still under intense investigation. Several mouse and rat models have been used to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying disease development, which may have a potential role for the reversal of fibrosis in these myopathic diseases.
Prognostic Significance of Early Elevated Serum Uric Acid Concentrations in Low Birthweight Infants 1149

Uric acid (UA) concentrations can be elevated after ischemia-reperfusion injury and high levels in the first day of life have been associated with intracranial pathology in low birthweight infants (Pediatr Res 1996; 39: 238A). To determine the prognostic significance of high serum UA concentrations in the first 24 hours after birth, the records of 154 inborn infants who weighed 7.5 mg/dl and by univariate analysis was significantly related to gestational age, peak serum creatinine, serum HCO3 and base deficit, the presence of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), intrauterine growth retardation and how long after birth the sample was obtained. By multiple logistic regression, peak creatinine concentrations, base deficit and time of sample were risk factors for high serum UA concentrations. There were no significant differences in UA concentrations between those with any IVH or PVL(n = 41, UA=5.35 ± 0.32 mg/dl) and those with none (n=97, UA=5.88± 0.22 mg/dl, p > 0.05), nor did UA concentrations differ between the survivors vs the 21 who died (5.73 ± 0.19 vs 5.45 ± 0.43 mg/dl, p > 0.05). Elevated UA concentrations were not found in those with more severe intracranial pathology (Grades III and IV IVH and/or PVL) nor in the group defined as bad outcome (died or had IVH/PVL). Of the 132 infants eligible for follow-up, 79 (60%) were seen at a median age of 11 months(range 5-29 mo). The 20 infants with neurodevelopmental or neuromotor abnormalities had a first day UA concentration of 5.38 ± 0.38 compared with 6.03± 0.33 for those with a normal exam (p > 0.05). Elevated serum UA concentrations in the first 24 hr of life do not relate to intracranial pathology, death or abnormal neurological outcome. Since the concentrations are higher in the presence of maternal hypertension, serum creatinine and how long after birth the sample is obtained, it is possible that any detection of elevated serum UA from ischemia-reperfusion injury in the infant is obscured by transplacental passage of UA from the mother (serum UA is higher in mothers with PIH) and from a longer half-life for UA in the infant's circulation during the first day of life.
Thermoelectrics with earth abundant elements: high performance p-type PbS nanostructured with SrS and CaS.

We report high thermoelectric performance in nanostructured p-type PbS, a material consisting of highly earth abundant and inexpensive elements. The high level of Na doping switched intrinsic n-type PbS to p-type and substantially raised the power factor maximum for pure PbS to ∼9.0 μW cm–1 K–2 at >723 K using 2.5 at. % Na as the hole dopant. Contrary to that of PbTe, no enhancement in the Hall coefficient occurs at high temperature for heavily doped p-type PbS, indicating a single band model and no heavy hole band. We also report that the lattice thermal conductivity of PbS can be greatly reduced by adding SrS or CaS, which form a combination of a nanostructured/solid solution material as determined by transmission electron microscopy. We find that both nanoscale precipitates and point defects play an important role in reducing the lattice thermal conductivity, but the contribution from nanoscale precipitates of SrS is greater than that of CaS, whereas the contribution from point defects in the case of C...
Measurement of Five Dipolar Couplings from a Single 3D NMR Multiplet Applied to the Study of RNA Dynamics

A new three-dimensional NMR experiment is described that yields five scalar or dipolar couplings from a single cross-peak between three spins. The method is based on the E.COSY principle and is demonstrated for the H1‘−C1‘−C2‘ fragment of ribose sugars in a uniformly 13C-enriched 24-nucleotide RNA stem-loop structure, for which a complete set of couplings was obtained for all nonmodified nucleotides. The values of the isotropic J couplings and the 13C1‘ and 13C2‘ chemical shifts define the sugar pucker. Once the sugar pucker is known, the five dipolar couplings between C1‘−H1‘, C2‘−H2‘, H1‘−H2‘, C1‘−H2‘, and C2‘−H1‘, together with C1‘−C2‘, C3‘−H3‘, and C4‘−H4‘ available from standard experiments, can be used to derive the five unknowns that define the local alignment tensor, thereby simultaneously providing information on relative orientation and dynamics of the ribose units. Data indicate rather uniform alignment for all stem nucleotides in the 24-nt stem-loop structure, with only a modest reduction in o...
Neural correlates of contextual cueing are modulated by explicit learning

Contextual cueing refers to the facilitated ability to locate a particular visual element in a scene due to prior exposure to the same scene. This facilitation is thought to reflect implicit learning, as it typically occurs without the observer's knowledge that scenes repeat. Unlike most other implicit learning effects, contextual cueing can be impaired following damage to the medial temporal lobe. Here we investigated neural correlates of contextual cueing and explicit scene memory in two participant groups. Only one group was explicitly instructed about scene repetition. Participants viewed a sequence of complex scenes that depicted a landscape with five abstract geometric objects. Superimposed on each object was a letter T or L rotated left or right by 90°. Participants responded according to the target letter (T) orientation. Responses were highly accurate for all scenes. Response speeds were faster for repeated versus novel scenes. The magnitude of this contextual cueing did not differ between the two groups. Also, in both groups repeated scenes yielded reduced hemodynamic activation compared with novel scenes in several regions involved in visual perception and attention, and reductions in some of these areas were correlated with response-time facilitation. In the group given instructions about scene repetition, recognition memory for scenes was superior and was accompanied by medial temporal and more anterior activation. Thus, strategic factors can promote explicit memorization of visual scene information, which appears to engage additional neural processing beyond what is required for implicit learning of object configurations and target locations in a scene.
Diffusion of Ruthenium in Single Crystals of Silver

The diffusion coefficient of ruthenium in monocrystalline silver has been measured over the temperature range 793\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C to 945\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, using ${\mathrm{Ru}}^{103}$ and ${\mathrm{Ru}}^{106}$ tracers, and a sectioning technique. The results may be expressed by an Arrhenius relation as $D=(180\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}70)\mathrm{exp}[\ensuremath{-}\frac{(65800\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1000)}{\mathrm{RT}}]$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/sec. The present result is consistent with earlier theoretical models, unlike the results obtained by Mackliet for Fe in Cu.
Microdisplay opportunity: small size, low power, big image, bright future

Microdisplays, which offers displays with small size, low power, big image, and a bright future, are particular useful for low power mobile personal communication and information display. Among all possible technologies, active matrix addressed liquid crystal displays using CMOS circuit fabricated in single-crystal silicon is presently the best approach for these microdisplays. A personal view on the microdisplay advantages and possible opportunities is summarized. A detailed description on the leading Kopin monochrome and color virtual displays is given.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Two Studies that Investigate the Impact of Ceiling and Wall Reflectance Values on LEED Credits

This study is divided into two parts. The first study determines window size and size reductions for different wall and ceiling reflectance combinations that are needed in a classroom to achieve one leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) daylight factor credit. The second study determines the power consumption of indirect luminaires with a target illuminance of 538 lux for different wall and ceiling reflectance combinations. LEED credits for the optimizing energy performance are determined. It is found that ceiling reflectance has a higher impact on light levels and energy performance than wall reflectance. A ceiling reflectance of 90% and wall reflectance of 75% allows a minimum window-to-wall ratio of 0.444 to achieve one LEED daylight factor credit. The same room decreases lighting power density for an indirect fluorescent lighting system by one-third below the maximum permissible lighting power density specified in American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers/Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (ASHRAE/IESNA) Standard 90.1-2001. If lighting constitutes 50% of the total ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1 load, 0.92 LEED credits for the optimization of energy performance can be obtained for new construction and 2.92 credits can be obtained for existing buildings.
The prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension among US adults according to the new joint national committee guidelines: new challenges of the old problem.

Background The recently released Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee (JNC) on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure provides a new classification of blood pressure levels. Little is known about the current situation of elevated blood pressure in the United States, according to the new guidelines. Methods Cross-sectional analysis of national representative data collected from 4805 adults 18 years and older surveyed in the 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We examined the prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension according to the new JNC guidelines, people’s awareness and management of hypertension, and the differences across sociodemographic and body weight groups. Results Elevated blood pressure is a serious problem in the United States. Approximately 60% of American adults have prehypertension or hypertension, and some population groups, such as African Americans, older people, low-socioeconomic-status groups, and overweight groups, are disproportionately affected. The prevalence of hypertension has increased by approximately 10 percentage points during the past decade. The awareness and appropriate management of hypertension among hypertensive patients remain low: 31% were not aware of their disease, only two thirds (66%) were told by health professionals to adopt lifestyle modifications or take drugs to control hypertension, and only 31% controlled their hypertension. Conclusions With 60% of the population affected, the United States is facing a serious challenge in the prevention and management of prehypertension and hypertension. People’s awareness and control of hypertension remain poor. This study highlights the seriousness of the problem and the importance of promoting lifestyle modifications.
Improving the performance of InAs1−xSbx/InSb infrared detectors grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition

Diethylselenium and tetraethyltin were investigated as n-type dopants for InSb. Carrier concentrations between 6 {times} 10{sup 15} and 4 {times} 10{sup 18} cm{sup -3} with 77 K mobilities ranging from 75, 000 to 10,000 cm{sup 2}/Vs were achieved for Sn doped InSb. Triethylantimony and trimethylindium were used to grow InSb over the temperature range of 410 {minus} 470 C with a decrease in the p-type background occurring at 410 C. Diodes were prepared using tetraethyltin, trimethylindium and trimethylantimony at 470 C. The resulting current-voltage characteristics are improved over those of diodes grown previously using dimethyltellurium. SIMS measurements indicate a diffusion coefficient for Sn in InSb at 470 C that is approximately 1 {times} 10{sup -15} cm{sup 2}/s. 8 refs., 4 figs.
Parallel Processing of Power System Analysis Problems Via Simple Parallel Microcomputer Structures

With the ever-increasing complexity of power systems, transient analyses are demanding a tremendous amount of computer effort. Recent advances in microprocessor technology have developed inexpensive processing units and memory as a set of small chips. This paper investigates the suitability of utilizing simple, extensible parallel microcomputer structures for efficient simulation of power system transients. Algorithms exploiting the sparsity structure of the equations involved are discussed and simulated results are presented.
Relational Dynamic Bayesian Networks

Stochastic processes that involve the creation of objects and relations over time are widespread, but relatively poorly studied. For example, accurate fault diagnosis in factory assembly processes requires inferring the probabilities of erroneous assembly operations, but doing this efciently and accurately is difcult. Modeled as dynamic Bayesian networks, these processes have discrete variables with very large domains and extremely high dimensionality. In this paper, we introduce relational dynamic Bayesian networks (RDBNs), which are an extension of dynamic Bayesian networks (DBNs) to rst-order logic. RDBNs are a generalization of dynamic probabilistic relational models (DPRMs), which we had proposed in our previous work to model dynamic uncertain domains. We rst extend the Rao-Blackwellised particle ltering described in our earlier work to RDBNs. Next, we lift the assumptions associated with Rao-Blackwellization in RDBNs and propose two new forms of particle ltering. The rst one uses abstraction hierarchies over the predicates to smooth the particle lter’ s estimates. The second employs kernel density estimation with a kernel function specically designed for relational domains. Experiments show these two methods greatly outperform standard particle ltering on the task of assembly plan execution monitoring.
Some vorticity theorems and conservation laws for non-barotropic fluids

Some theorems concerning the vorticity in barotropic flows of perfect fluids are generalized for non-barotropic flows. The generalization involves replacing the velocity in certain parts of the equations by a time-dependent quantity which is a function of the velocity and thermodynamic properties of the fluid. Results which are generalized include Kelvin's circulation theorem and conservation laws for potential vorticity and helicity. It is shown how the results can be further generalized to include dissipative effects. The possibility of using some of the results in deriving a complete set of Lagrangian conservation laws for perfect fluids is discussed.
The Impact of Lateral Boundary Conditions and Horizontal Resolution on North Atlantic Water Mass Transformations and Pathways in an Isopycnic Coordinate Ocean Model

Abstract A series of numerical experiments for the North Atlantic have been carried out with a primitive equation density-coordinate model, incorporating a relaxation zone south of 65°N designed to simulate the production of dense water in regions outside the model domain. The principal experiments vary both the horizontal grid resolution of the model (0.9° and 1/3°) and the width of the buffer zone (4° and 4/3°); an additional model experiment addresses the issue of the forcing used within the restoring region. The North Atlantic water mass transformations simulated in the various experiments and the subsequent pathways of converted water from the northern boundary region into the interior basin are documented both by time-evolution and time-mean analysis of the model results, focusing on the mass content of the isopycnic layers, the spread of water masses tagged with a passive tracer, the meridional overturning streamfunction and associated transport of heat, and mass transport budgets within specified ...
Nanostructures from Hydrogen and Helium Implantation of Aluminum

This study investigates a pathway to nanoporous structures created by hydrogen and helium implantation in aluminum. Previous experiments for fusion applications have indicated that hydrogen and helium ion implantations are capable of producing bicontinuous nanoporous structures in a variety of metals. This study focuses specifically on implantations of hydrogen and helium ions at 25 keV in aluminum. The hydrogen and helium systems result in remarkably different nanostructures of aluminum at the surface. Scanning electron microscopy, focused ion beam, and transmission electron microscopy show that both implantations result in porosity that persists approximately 200 nm deep. However, hydrogen implantations tend to produce larger and more irregular voids that preferentially reside at defects. Implantations of helium at a fluence of 1018 cm-2 produce much smaller porosity on the order of 10 nm that is regular and creates a bicontinuous structure in the porous region. The primary difference driving the formation of the contrasting structures is likely the relatively high mobility of hydrogen and the ability of hydrogen to form alanes that are capable of desorbing and etching Al (111) faces.
Review on spontaneous magnetic fields in laser-produced plasmas: Phenomena and measurements

Large (megagauss) “spontaneous” magnetic fields are produced by laser–plasma interactions when a short, powerful laser pulse is focused to a small diameter onto a solid target. The relevance of these magnetic fields to inertial confinement fusion applications depends on the numerous ways in which they can affect laser–plasma interactions and the resulting plasma. Theoretical studies have dealt with a variety (thermal, radiative, and dynamo) of generation mechanisms and with the associated transport and instability phenomena. The fields, originally observed with small induction probes placed near the target, have been studied in the focal region by optical methods. These optical diagnostics have used Faraday rotation of a probing laser beam and Zeeman profiles of emitted spectral lines.
Diverse functions of matrix metalloproteinases during fibrosis.

Fibrosis – a debilitating condition that can occur in most organs – is characterized by excess deposition of a collagen-rich extracellular matrix (ECM). At first sight, the activities of proteinases that can degrade matrix, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), might be expected to be under-expressed in fibrosis or, if present, could function to resolve the excess matrix. However, as we review here, some MMPs are indeed anti-fibrotic, whereas others can have pro-fibrotic functions. MMPs modulate a range of biological processes, especially processes related to immunity and tissue repair and/or remodeling. Although we do not yet know precisely how MMPs function during fibrosis – that is, the protein substrate or substrates that an individual MMP acts on to effect a specific process – experiments in mouse models demonstrate that MMP-dependent functions during fibrosis are not limited to effects on ECM turnover. Rather, data from diverse models indicate that these proteinases influence cellular activities as varied as proliferation and survival, gene expression, and multiple aspects of inflammation that, in turn, impact outcomes related to fibrosis.
Individual condition and stream temperature influence early maturation of rainbow and steelhead trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss

Alternative male phenotypes in salmonine fishes arise from individuals that mature as larger and older anadromous marine-migrants or as smaller and younger freshwater residents. To better understand the processes influencing the expression of these pheno- types we examined the influences of growth in length (fork length) and whole body lipid content in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Fish were sampled from the John Day River basin in northeast Oregon where both anadromous ("steelhead") and freshwater resi- dent rainbow trout coexist. Larger males with higher lipid levels had a greater probability of maturing as a resident at age-1+. Among males, 38% were maturing overall, and the odds ratios of the logistic model indicated that the probability of a male maturing early as a resident at age-1+ increased 49% (95% confi- dence interval (CI)=23-81%) for every 5 mm in- crease in length and 33% (95% CI=10-61%) for every 0.5% increase in whole body lipid content. There was an inverse association between individual condition and water temperature as growth was greater in warmer streams while whole body lipid content was higher in cooler streams. Our results support predictions from life history theory and further suggest that relationships between individual condition, maturation, and environmental variables (e.g., water temperature) are shaped by complex developmental and evolutionary influences.
Language as power on the Internet

English is typically considered not only the language of business, but also the language of the Internet. This brief communication explores the cultural implications of the power position of English as the language of the Internet and discusses the likelihood of its continued dominance. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
THE POLITICS OF REPRODUCTION: THE TROUBLING CASE OF NADYA SULEMAN AND ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY[*]

On January 26, 2009, Nadya Suleman gave birth to the nation's second set of octuplets. Over the course of 30 days Ms. Suleman became the subject of outrage and outrageous representations over her choice to have in vitro fertilization since she already had six children. Embedded in Suleman's public construction and representations are subtle transcripts of race, class, and reproduction. This article examines these intersections as they relate to stratified reproduction, neoliberal reification of choice in the reproductive marketplace and the silence of mainstream reproductive rights groups in challenging the discourse surrounding Suleman. This discourse is similar to that which has historically been used to justify restricting the reproductive trajectories of women of color, poor and low-income women.
ICU SCORING SYSTEMS ALLOW PREDICTION OF PATIENT OUTCOMES AND COMPARISON OF ICU PERFORMANCE

Too much time and effort are wasted in attempts to pass final judgment on whether systems for ICU prognostication are "good or bad" and whether they "do or do not" provide a simple answer to the complex and often unpredictable question of individual mortality in the ICU. A substantial amount of data supports the usefulness of general ICU prognostic systems in comparing ICU performance with respect to a wide variety of endpoints, including ICU and hospital mortality, duration of stay, and efficiency of resource use. Work in progress is analyzing both general resource use and specific therapeutic interventions. It also is time to fully acknowledge that statistics never can predict whether a patient will die with 100% accuracy. There always will be exceptions to the rule, and physicians frequently will have information that is not included in prognostic models. In addition, the values of both physicians and patients frequently lead to differences in how a probability in interpreted; for some, a 95% probability estimate means that death is near and, for others, this estimate represents a tangible 5% chance for survival. This means that physicians must learn how to integrate such estimates into their medical decisions. In doing so, it is our hope that prognostic systems are not viewed as oversimplifying or automating clinical decisions. Rather, such systems provide objective data on which physicians may ground a spectrum of decisions regarding either escalation or withdrawal of therapy in critically ill patients. These systems do not dehumanize our decision-making process but, rather, help eliminate physician reliance on emotional, heuristic, poorly calibrated, or overly pessimistic subjective estimates. No decision regarding patient care can be considered best if the facts upon which it is based on imprecise or biased. Future research will improve the accuracy of individual patient predictions but, even with the highest degree of precision, such predictions are useful only in support of, and not as a substitute for, good clinical judgment.
Polarized temporal impulse responses for scattering media from speckle frequency correlations

Second and third order frequency correlations of speckle intensity patterns are used to characterize scattering media for multiple polarization states.
Integrating Research and Practice: A Framework for Implementation

RECENT editorials in Social Work have called for improving the em pirical knowledge base for social work education and practice, broadening social work relationships with other social science disciplines, and delivering more effective services by and for "real people" (Hopps, 1989). Acknowledging the demands for accountability from the public and funding bodies, some bemoan the fact that social workers do not use research findings in practice. They reiterate the need for social work to bet ter use the data already available to improve practice and to evaluate social work methods (Hopps & Gambrill, 1988). In response to these policy pressures, clinical social workers, who provide the lion's share of outpatient mental health services in the United States, must provide a framework for treatment that uses the findings of con temporary clinical outcome research. This article examines the characteristics of treatment models that have garnered support through clinical outcome re search and proposes a framework for the practical and coherent implementation of a flexible and eclectic array of problem-oriented methods.
Load balancing in ad hoc networks: single-path routing vs. multi-path routing

Multi-path routing has been studied thoroughly in the context of wired networks. Ii has been shown that using multiple paths to route messages between any source-destination pair of nodes (instead of using a single path) balances the load more evenly throughout the network. The common belief is that the same is true for ad hoc networks, i.e., multi-path routing balances the load significantly better than single-path routing. We show that this is not necessarily the case. We introduce a new model for evaluating the load balance under multi-path routing, when the paths chosen are the first K shortest paths (for a pre-specified K). Using this model, we show that unless we use a very large number of paths (which is very costly and therefore infeasible) the load distribution is almost the same as single shortest path routing. This is in contrary to the previous existing results which assume that multi-path routing distributes the load uniformly.
Stop, look, and listen: the challenge for children with ADHD

Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neuropsychiatric disorder that appears in 4% to 13% of the U.S. population. Contrary to earlier beliefs, ADHD frequently persists into adolescence and adulthood and is associated with poor health choices and risk-taking behavior. Despite a vast amount of scientific literature addressing the disorder, many misconceptions and myths prevail creating confusion for children, their families, and health professionals as they attempt to make treatment decisions. One new theoretical model of ADHD shows promise in its ability to provide a more comprehensive explanation of the disorder; it could prove useful in the development of interventions and research programs to improve health maintenance and decrease health?risk behavior in the ADHD population.