cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estrogen and Thrombosis: a Bench to Bedside Review

Estrogen, in the clinical setting is used primarily for contraception and hormone replacement therapy. It has been well established that estrogen increases the risk of both arterial and venous thrombosis. While estrogen is known to induce a prothrombotic milieu through various effects on the hemostatic pathways, the exact molecular mechanism leading to those effects is not known. The most common clinical presentation of estrogen-related thrombosis is venous thromboembolism (VTE) of the deep veins of the legs or pulmonary vessels, usually within the first few months of use. Estrogen has also been associated with increased risk of "unusual site" thromboses, as well as arterial thrombosis. Women at high-risk of thrombosis need careful evaluation and counseling for contraception, pregnancy, menopausal hormonal therapy and other estrogen-related conditions or treatments in order to lower the risk of thromboses. We review the most recent evidence on management of high-estrogen states in women at high-risk of thrombosis, as well as emerging data on unique populations such as transgender women. More studies are needed to better understand the pathophysiology of hormone-related thrombosis, as well as more comprehensive techniques to stratify risks for thrombosis so as to enable tailoring of recommendations for each individual.
Work and Grow Rich: The Dynamic Effects of Performance Pay Contracts

This paper studies the rise of performance pay contracts and their aggregate effects on the labor market. First, using the Panel Study of Income Dynamics and National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, I document three patterns: (i) the share of performance pay workers grew from 15% in 1970 to 50% by 2000, (ii) performance pay workers experience higher earnings levels and growth rates and work longer hours, and (iii) invest more in their on-the-job human capital. These differences persist even when comparing similar jobs in the same establishment using the National Compensation Survey. Second, I build a dynamic Roy model with heterogeneity in performance pay, time-varying probabilities of receiving performance pay, and human capital accumulation. The model is calibrated using simulated method of moments on the NLSY79. Third, I use my model to gauge the role of incentives, the contribution of performance pay to rising earnings inequality, and evaluate a recently proposed counterfactual 73% marginal tax rate.
Explaining the interactions of humans and artifacts in insider security behaviors: The mangle of practice perspective

Abstract Recent decades have seen numerous studies of individual information security behaviors and compliance within organizational contexts. One regular finding is that individuals continue to fail at compliance; however the explanations for why this occurs typically fail to consider the temporal, emergent and dynamic nature of security encounters between human users information security-related artifacts when they come together in the practice of security. In addition, existing research typically does not consider the inherent tension that exists between information systems (IS) use and security controls where the former is used to perform tasks and the latter may constrain the accomplishment of those tasks. This paper offers a new perspective that may better explain how the human and the security-related artifacts they create interact to both afford and constrain the enactment of information security. Our perspective builds on Pickering's mangle of practice metaphor to consider the constitutive entanglement of humans and artifacts and explain information security behaviors. This perspective is applied and discussed in the context of insider compliance with information security policies but could apply to a wide range of other information security and information systems behavioral contexts.
Discover Together: Attempting to Alter Understanding and Practices in Governments’ Work with Citizens

Scholars increasingly draw attention to the benefits of collaborative governance. Yet few studies focus on the processes that help public organisations move in this direction. In this chapter, we investigate how differing conceptions of citizen roles become solidified in management practices. Using case study data from a local initiative designed to promote citizen engagement, we show how government staff involved in implementing the initiative struggled to shift from practices that viewed the citizen as a customer to practices that view the citizen as a co-producer. Our analysis draws attention to a set of tools that may help public organisations move in the direction of greater engagement, including the co-creation of material artefacts, staff development and training opportunities and the presence of external and internal translators.
Abstract LB230: Inactivation of the CFTR gene in duodena of mice exposed to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in drinking water supports its tumor-suppressor status and implies its role in Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis of the small intestines

Hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)] compounds are used in metallurgical, chemical and refractory industries. Their carcinogenicity has been supported by a number of epidemiological and animal studies; however, their carcinogenic mode of action is still incompletely understood. To identify mechanisms involved in cancer development from toxicologically relevant exposures to Cr(VI), we analyzed gene expression data from duodena of mice exposed for 7 or 90 days to Cr(VI) in drinking water at concentrations 0.3-520 mg/L. This analysis included identification of upstream regulatory molecules that are likely responsible for the observed gene expression changes, and identification of annotated gene expression data from public repositories that correlate with gene expression changes in duodena of Cr(VI)-exposed mice. We identified the CFTR gene among top scoring upstream regulators, including at low exposure levels that, for the given timepoints, did not induce observable tissue damage. Furthermore, the expression data from duodena of Cr(VI)-exposed mice displayed a positive correlation with other datasets in public repositories associated with the inactive CFTR gene, of which the top scoring were datasets for ilea and duodena of Cftr-knockout mice. Our results support the tumor-suppressor role of the CFTR gene, which was previously suggested for intestinal carcinogenesis in humans and mice. Furthermore, our findings indicate, for the first time, the role of CFTR inactivation in chemical carcinogenesis and expand the range of plausible mechanisms that may be operative in Cr(VI)-mediated carcinogenesis of intestinal and possibly other tissues. Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the US EPA. Citation Format: Roman Mezencev, Scott S. Auerbach. Inactivation of the CFTR gene in duodena of mice exposed to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in drinking water supports its tumor-suppressor status and implies its role in Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis of the small intestines [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr LB230.
Overview and History of Aortic Dissection and Other Acute Aortic Syndromes

Acute aortic syndromes represent a spectrum of aortic pathology that most commonly manifest as an aortic dissection. The treatment of these potentially life-threatening conditions have benefited from a better understanding of their natural history along with advances in diagnostic and surgical technology. An overview of the historical evolution of these advances provides an insight into the pioneering work of numerous individuals that embraced the challenge of overcoming the barriers that stood between them and our current place in treating these complex patients.
Bail and Pretrial Release Decisions

Abstract The racial threat perspective is tested using data from empirical studies of bail and pretrial release. Of the thirty empirical studies investigating race and bail/pretrial release, eighteen identified specific cities and counties, thereby permitting an examination of the effect of racial composition on the race and bail/pretrial release nexus. Results suggest a possible modification of the racial threat perspective as typically conceptualized. Other factors affecting this relationship are briefly discussed.
Handedness and cognitive function in older men and women: a comparison of methods.

Objective: Previous studies of handedness and cognitive function rely on self-classification and yield inconsistent results. This study examines the associations of self-reported versus grip-strength-based handedness with cognitive function in healthy older men and women.Design: Cross-sectional study.Setting: 1988–91 follow-up clinic visit and 1991 mailed survey.Participants: 684 men and 985 women aged 55–95 who were community dwelling.Measurements: Cognitive function was assessed with 12 tests and grip strength was measured by hand-held dynamometer. Self-reported handedness was obtained with a mailed survey.Results: By self-report, 92.1% of men and women were right-handed; 2.0% were left handed. By grip strength, in men, 64.3% were right-handed, 22.5% left-handed, and 13.2% ambidextrous. In women, 61.3% were right-handed, 17.3% left-handed, and 21.4% ambidextrous. No cognitive function differences were found by self-reported handedness in either sex (p’s>0.10). However, based on grip strength, left-handed women scored poorer than right-handed or ambidextrous women in immediate and delayed memory, attention, and verbal fluency (p’s<0.05). Using categorical definitions, left-handed or ambidextrous individuals based on grip strength were more likely to show poor cognitive function on 4 of 5 tests.Conclusion: Grip strength is a useful alternative to self-reports for classifying handedness. Left-handedness by grip-strength, may be related to poorer cognitive function; this association may vary by gender.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid Characterization of Bdellovibrios

The guanine plus cytosine (GC) content of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of 11 isolates of host-dependent (H-D) bdellovibrios and 18 host-independent (H-I) derivatives was determined from thermal denaturation curves and buoyant densities in CsCl. The H-D and respective H-I cultures have GC contents which are identical within the limits of experimental error. Most cultures of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, including the holotype culture, have 50.4 ± 0.9 moles% GC in their DNA; two bdellovibrio isolates of presently uncertain nomenclatural status contain DNA of about 43% GC. Optical melting profiles of all the DNA from all of these organisms are particularly steep, indicating little compositional heterogeneity. Chromatography of acid hydrolysates of Bdellovibrio nucleic acids reveal no unusual components. The DNA content per cell of one H-I derivative is about one-third the amount per Escherichia coli cell growing at a comparable rate.
Discrimination Theories and Advanced Topics

Discrimination tests seem straightforward and simple in making decisions and recommendations about product differences. Usually, some simple choice test is conducted, numbers of correct choices are counted, and statistical significance is determined. When the number correct exceeds some cutoff, we have evidence against the null hypothesis and in favor of a relationship between our test variable and a perceivable sensory difference. So far so good. If this scenario were the limit of sensory science, sensory tests could be conducted by people with minimal technical experience, and there would be little need for highly trained sensory professionals. However, sensory professionals need to do more than simply “turn the crank” on routine tests and produce binary yes/no decisions about statistical significance. They are also required to understand the relative sensitivity of different test methods, the decision processes and foibles of sensory panelists, and the potential pitfalls of superficial decisions. Whenever possible, they should bring a deeper understanding of the test process and a greater ability to add interpretation to test results than is found in standardized analytical testing procedures. Each food or product is different. Business and research decisions may hinge on conclusions (reasoned judgments) and recommendations from interpretation of test results.
A 3-D RBF-FD solver for modeling the atmospheric global electric circuit with topography (GEC-RBFFD v1.0)

Abstract. A numerical model based on radial basis function-generated finite differences (RBF-FD) is developed for simulating the global electric circuit (GEC) within the Earth's atmosphere, represented by a 3-D variable coefficient linear elliptic partial differential equation (PDE) in a spherically shaped volume with the lower boundary being the Earth's topography and the upper boundary a sphere at 60 km. To our knowledge, this is (1) the first numerical model of the GEC to combine the Earth's topography with directly approximating the differential operators in 3-D space and, related to this, (2) the first RBF-FD method to use irregular 3-D stencils for discretization to handle the topography. It benefits from the mesh-free nature of RBF-FD, which is especially suitable for modeling high-dimensional problems with irregular boundaries. The RBF-FD elliptic solver proposed here makes no limiting assumptions on the spatial variability of the coefficients in the PDE (i.e., the conductivity profile), the right hand side forcing term of the PDE (i.e., distribution of current sources) or the geometry of the lower boundary.
Security in Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks

Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (WMANs) provide wireless communications at acceptable bandwidth over much larger geographical areas compared to Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). Also known as Wireless Local Loop (WLL), WMANs are based on the IEEE 802.16 standards with commercial name Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX). With its global market growing eighty-five percent in 2010 to 1.7 billion U.S. dollars, WiMAX is becoming a major competitor among the prevailing wireless communications technologies. While improved IEEE 802.16 standards and amendments were published and adopted in almost every year of the past decade, existing standards still contain a number of security vulnerabilities inherent from deprecated versions. This chapter starts with an introduction to and overview of Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), WMANs, WiMAX and IEEE 802.16 standards, then discusses the technical details of WiMAX and IEEE 802.16 security aspects such as confidentiality, integrity, key generation and management, as well as security vulnerabilities, treats, and countermeasures.
EFFECT OF STRATUM CORNEUM STRIPPING ON SKIN PENETRATION OF DRUG

L'administration transdermique presente des avantages par rapport a l'administration orale. Cette etude presente la cinetique de penetration des medicaments a travers des bandes de couche cornee pour expliquer le mecanisme de diffusion
Chaos Structure and Turtleback Dome, Mineral Ridge, Esmeralda County, Nevada

Blocks of late Precambrian and Lower Cambrian sedimentary rocks are in fault contact with the underlying complexly deformed Pre-cambrian units of Mineral Ridge in Nevada. A structure contour map of the contact between the metamorphic and sedimentary rocks was constructed using the topography of low-relief areas on the metamorphic rocks. This map shows the structure to be a dome, with smaller-scale elevations and depressions superimposed on the dome shape. The disordered and yet unfolded aspect of the fault blocks and the age relationships of the rocks involved are strikingly similar to the characteristics of the Amargosa Chaos of the Death Valley area; moreover, the form of the fault contact resembles the turtleback domes associated with the chaos at Death Valley. Similarities to areas of gravity sliding, including a possible erosion surface overriden by the thrust blocks, indicate the chaotic structures of Mineral Ridge may be the results of near-surface gravity movements rather than the secondary features of strike-slip faults.
Environmental conditions during phytoplankton blooms in the vicinity of James Ross Island, east of the Antarctic Peninsula

In waters surrounding James Ross Island (JRI), which is generally inaccessible, high chlorophyll-a concentration [Chla] can often be detected during summer periods by ocean color imagery. The region is influenced by a retreating sea ice edge from Weddell Sea and freshwater runoff from JRI glaciers, factors that probably trigger phytoplankton growth. In this work, we relate phytoplankton composition and biomass [Chla and carbon] with environmental factors in two successive late summer periods, in 2008 (1–3 March) and 2009 (17–20 February). Remote sensing data were used to corroborate the findings during those few sampling days. High surface [Chla] patches were observed through both remote sensing and field data (up to 7.61 mg Chla m−3 in 2009), and associated with a relatively shallow upper mixed layer (UML) (19–109 m in 2008 and 16–74 m in 2009). Sea surface temperatures were lower in 2008 (−1.19 to −0.62 °C) than in 2009 (−0.87 to −0.46 °C). Sea ice coverage was greater in 2008 than in 2009 summer, implying an earlier sea ice retreat in the latter year, when higher average [Chla] was obtained from field samples (3.3 mg m−3, compared to 1.5 mg m−3 in 2008). The eastern side of JRI appeared to be relatively sheltered from the dominant pattern of large-scale westerly winds. Diatoms dominated the phytoplankton community, with presence of large diatom species (e.g., Odontella weissflogii) typical of an advanced sea ice melt condition. Those blooms were sustained by a shallow UML associated with relative shelter from winds, due to proximity with the island.
A Simple, Rapid Technique for Operative Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Premature Infant

A rapid, simplified clip technique for operative closure of the ductus arteriosus in premature infants is presented.
Characterization of Human Brain S100 Protein Fraction: Amino Acid Sequence of S100β

Abstract Two major components of human brain S100 fraction were purified by HPLC and an amino acid sequence was elucidated for the S100 beta component. Human S100 proteins showed absorption spectra and amino acid compositions similar to S100 alpha and S100 beta from bovine brain. However, the relative amounts of the human proteins were 4% S100 alpha and 96% S100 beta by weight, while the bovine protein distribution was 47% S100 alpha and 53% S100 beta by weight. An amino acid sequence of human S100 beta was established by analysis of overlapping fragments generated by cyanogen bromide and trypsin cleavage. Three amino acid sequence differences between the human and bovine S100 beta were found at residues 7, 62, and 80. These differences were chemically conservative and compatible with minimum single base changes in the codon structures. These results document that S100 beta is a conserved protein among mammals and provide the necessary foundation for current clinical studies.
Induction of Nitrogenase Activity in Azospirillum brasilense by Conditioned Medium from Cell Suspension Cultures of Pennisetum americanum (Pearl Millet) and Panicum maximum (Guinea Grass)

Summary Nitrogenase activity ( = acetylene reduction activity) was observed in Azospirillum brasilense cultures grown on conditioned medium obtained from embryogenic pearl millet ( Pennisetum americanum ) and Guinea grass ( Panicum maximum ) cell suspension cultures, but no bacterial growth or activity was observed on unconditioned medium. A peak of maximum activity was obtained with medium harvested mid-way through a 13 d culture period. Non-embryogenic suspension cultures of pearl millet and Guinea grass supported little or no bacterial growth or nitrogenase activity.
Creep, stress rupture, and isothermal aging of reinforced polyphthalamide

The effects of time, temperature, and particulate filler on the tensile behavior of short fiber-reinforced polyphthalamide (PPA) were investigated experimentally. Creep and stress-rupture characteristics and tensile properties before and after isothermal aging were determined. Temperatures ranged from 23 to 150°C and tests lasted up to about 4000 h. Stress-rupture master curves were created, using a WLF-type analysis, which can be used for interpolation with reasonable accuracy. Creep rates were low but were affected by increased moisture absorption in the lowest temperature environment. All properties were affected by chemical degradation of the PPA matrix at the highest temperature. Under most conditions investigated, the mineral filler improved the creep resistance and stiffness of the PPA resin at the expense of strength and ductility. Scanning electron microscopy examinations of fractured specimens indicated that the mineral filler embrittled the matrix and may have damaged the fibers during processing. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Exploring Personal Health History from a Multicultural Perspective

(1999). Exploring Personal Health History from a Multicultural Perspective. Journal of Health Education: Vol. 30, No. 5, pp. 315-322.
Topical gentamicin and ethacrynic acid : Effects on cochlear function

Objective: To determine whether concurrent intravenous administration of the loop diuretic ethacrynic acid potentiates the toxicity of the aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin applied topically on the round window. Study Design: The authors studied the effects on cochlear sensitivity of co-administered intracardiac ethacrynic acid (40 mg/kg) and high-dose topical gentamicin solution (100%) applied to the round window. Comparisons were made with animals receiving ethacrynic acid plus systemic gentamicin (100 mg/kg); topical gentamicin alone; systemic gentamicin alone; and intravenous ethacrynic acid alone. Methods: Experiments were carried out on pigmented guinea pigs weighing 400 to 500 g. Changes in cochlear function were characterized by monitoring shifts in compound action potential (CAP) thresholds by use of chronic indwelling electrodes implanted at the round window, vertex, and contralateral mastoid. Results: After 20 days animals receiving ethacrynic acid in combination with topical gentamicin to the round window failed to demonstrate a significant deterioration in cochlear sensitivity, whereas all animals receiving systemic gentamicin plus ethacrynic acid experienced profound increases in CAP thresholds. Conclusions: This study supports the contention that ethacrynic acid potentiates aminoglycoside ototoxicity by facilitating the entry of the antibiotics from the systemic circulation into the endolymph. In addition, this study answers important clinical concerns regarding the safety of the use of topical aminoglycoside agents in combination with loop diuretics.
Nanoparticle mediated non-covalent drug delivery

The use of nanoparticles (NPs) for enhanced drug delivery has been heavily explored during the last decade. Within the field, it is has become increasingly apparent that the physical properties of the particles themselves dictate their efficacy, and the relevant non-covalent chemistry at the NP interface also influences how drugs are immobilized and delivered. In this review, we reflect on the physical chemistry of NP mediated drug delivery (and more specifically, non-covalent drug delivery) at the three main experimental stages of drug loading, NP–drug conjugate transport, and the resulting cellular drug delivery. Through a critical evaluation of advances in drug delivery within the last decade, an outlook for biomedical applications of nanoscale transport vectors will be presented.
Neural network-based vision processing for autonomous robot guidance

The autonomous land vehicle in a neural network (ALVINN) project addresses the problem of training artificial neural networks in real time to perform difficult perception tasks. ALVINN is a modular connectionist system that uses inputs from a video camera and an imaging laser rangefinder to guide the CMU Navlab, a modified Chevy van. This paper describes a technique for rapidly training expert networks for new driving circumstances. A rule-based integration scheme that uses a symbolic planning system to combine multiple experts is also presented.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Partial purification and characterization of plasma DNA and its relation to disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus

This study reports the partial isolation and characterization of plasma DNA by phenol extraction and concentration of the extract. DNA, identified by immunologic and chemical methods, was found in plasma from both normal persons and patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in amounts varying from 0.004 to 0.4 micrograms/ml. The DNA was predominantly of low molecular weight, approximating 100 to 200 base pairs. Patients with lupus tended to have higher concentrations of plasma DNA than normal persons, with considerable overlap between the groups. Plasma DNA concentrations correlated inversely with titers of antibody to DNA but not strongly enough for prediction of either variable in individual cases. Many patients had high levels of plasma DNA and its antibody without clinical nephritis. These results indicate the ubiquity of plasma DNA and suggest the necessity of factors other than mere presence of DNA and its antibody for initiation of glomerular damage in systemic lupus erythematosus.
On-line large screen display system for computer instruction

This paper is concerned with a new instructional method to teach computer programming techniques to students in Computer Science as well as other scientific and non-scientific disciplines. Several courses in the Computer Science curriculum could be substantially enhanced if the instructional gap between the classroom lecture and the computer programming excercises could be eliminated. Rochester Institute of Technology has experimented to achieve this objective by means of an on-line large screen display system which will permit the instructors to perform classroom demonstrations to emphasize the key point of concepts or example of applications to a class of students through a keyboard with a computer. This new instructional method will eliminate deficiencies in conventional chalkboard approaches which result in material being covered too fast to be digested by the students or the course content to be diluted to match the pace of the class.
How to Get There From Here: Ecological and Economic Dynamics of Ecosystem Service Provision

Using a bioeconomic model of a coral reef-mangrove-seagrass system, we analyze the dynamic path of incentives to achieve an efficient transition to the steady state levels of fish biomass and mangrove habitat conservation. Our model nests different types of species habitat dependency and allows for changes in the extent of habitat to affect the growth rate and the long-run fish level. We solve the two-control, two-state non-linear optimal control problem numerically and compute the input efficiency frontier characterizing the tradeoff between mangrove habitat and fish population. After identifying the optimal locus on the frontier, we determine the optimal transition path to the frontier from a set of initial conditions to illustrate the necessary investments. Finally, we demonstrate how dynamic conservation incentives (payments for ecosystem services) for a particular habitat with multiple services are interdependent, change over time, and can be greater than contemporaneous fishing profits when the ecosystem is degraded.
Deletion analysis of male sterility effects of t-haplotypes in the mouse.

We present data on the effects of three chromosome 17 deletions on transmission ratio distortion (TRD) and sterility of several t -haplotypes. All three deletions have similar effects on male TRD: that is, T del / t complete genotypes all transmit their t –haplotype in very high proportion. However, each deletion has different effects on sterility of heterozygous males, with T or / t being fertile, T hp / t less fertile, and T orl / t still less fertile. These data suggest that wild-type genes on chromosomes homologous to f-haplotypes can be important regulators of both TRD and fertility in males, and that the wild-type genes concerned with TRD and fertility are at least to some extent different. The data also provide a rough map of the positions of these genes.
INFLUENCE OF EXTRANUCLEAR FIELDS ON ANGULAR CORRELATIONS

General formulas exhibiting the influence of extranuclear fields on angular correlations of two or three successive $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays are derived from first principles. They are applicable to polarization correlations as well as to directional correlations. The effect of transitions in the electron shell during the life of the intermediate nucleus is discussed briefly.
The Relationship of Glass Transition Temperature to Adhesive Strength

Abstract The effects of glass transition temperature (Tg ) on mechanical properties have been further demonstrated by the observation of adirect relationship between the Tg of an epoxy adhesive and its lap shear bond strength to metal at elevated test temperatures. An additive (coupling agent) which lowers the Tg from a point near or above the test temperature to below it causes a subsequent decrease in the strength of the system and generally increased cohesive failure. Therefore effects on the Tg of the adhesive are more important than on interfacial properties. The end result is that differential thermal analysis (DTA) can be utilized as a effective screening method for adhesives and additives, and can be a good indicator of maximum use temperature. From these data Tg can also be used to estimate adhesive strength at a given use temperature.
Angular and polarization properties of a photonic crystal slab mirror

It was recently demonstrated that a photonic crystal slab can function as a mirror for externally incident light along a normal direction with near-complete reflectivity over a broad wavelength range. We analyze the angular and polarization properties of such photonic crystal slab mirror, and show such reflectivity occurs over a sizable angular range for both polarizations. We also show that such mirror can be designed to reflect one polarization completely, while allowing 100% transmission for the other polarization, thus behaving as a polarization splitter with a complete contrast. The theoretical analysis is validated by comparing with experimental measurements.
Report of 255 clinical ethics consultations and review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE To review clinical ethics consultations at a tertiary care academic medical center. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all ethics consultations (and associated patient medical records) conducted at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn, between April 6, 1995, and December 31, 2005. RESULTS Of the 255 consultations, 101 (40%) reviewed intensive care unit care, 103 (40%) involved patients who died during hospitalization, and 174 (68%) were requested by physicians. The most common primary diagnoses of the patients involved were malignancy (18%, n=47), neurologic disease (18%, n=47), and cardiovascular disease (17%, n=43). Most cases involved multiple issues: patient competency and decision-making capacity (82%, n=208), staff member disagreement with care plans (76%, n=195), end-of-life and quality-of-life issues (60%, n=154), and goals of care and futility (54%, n=138). Withholding or withdrawing measures was the focus of 132 (52%) of the consultations. We also identified previously published reports of ethics consultations and compared the findings of those reports with ours. CONCLUSIONS Despite advances in medicine, the nature of ethical dilemmas remains relatively unchanged. Issues of communication, family conflict, and futility continue to give rise to ethical quandaries.
The Los Alamos Free-Electron Laser Oscillator Experiment: Plans And Present Status

Plans have been made to modify the Los Almos free-electron laser amplifier experiment to allow its use as an oscillator at 10.6 microns. Several major changes were required, all of which have now been completed. The necessity for these changes is discussed as are the details of their fulfillment. In some cases we have progressed to the point where we can report on the performance of the new systems. The present status is described.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effects of an Advance Telephone Call in a Personal Interview Survey

During October and November 1982, 1,260 Medicare-eligible senior citizens were interviewed in a survey focusing on health care of the elderly. As part of the survey, an experiment was conducted in each of the three survey sites to determine the effects of an advance telephone call to schedule an appointment for a personal interview. One random half sample in each site was sent a lead letter, followed by a telephone call to schedule a personal interview. The other half sample was sent a lead letter followed by a personal contact, with no intervening telephone call. Telephoning to arrange an appointment for a personal interview resulted in a 20 percent saving in data collection costs with only a 1 percent decrease in response rate.
Radiofrequency catheter ablation used to unmask infarction Q waves in Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

1. Abildskov JA, Millar K, Burgess MJ, Vincent W. The electrocardiogram and the central nervous system. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 1970;13:210-6. 2. Stober T, Kunse K. Electrocardiographic alterations in subarachnoid haemorrbage. Correlation between spasm of the arteries of the left side on the brain and T inversion and QT prolongation. J Nemo1 1982;227:99113. 3. Matoba T, Toshima H, Nagae K, Yamszaki S. Changes of ventricular monophasic action potential duration by stellate ganglion stimulation in dogs. Jpn Heart J 1979;20:477-84. 4. Yanowitz F, Preston JB, Abildskov JA. Functional distribution of right and left stellate innervation to the ventricles: Production of neurogenic electrocardiographic changes by unilateral alteration of sympathetic tone. Circ Res 1966;18:416-28. 5. Hugenholts PG. Electrocardiographic changes typical for central nervous system disease after right radical neck dissection. AM HEART J 1967;74:438-41. 6. Koskelo P, Punsar S, Sipila W. Subendocardial haemorrhage and ECG changes in intracranial bleeding. Br Med J 1964;1:1479-SO. 7. Pollick C, Cujec B, Parker S, Tator C. Left ventricular wall motion abnormalities in subarachnoid hemorrhage: An echocardiographic study. J Am Co11 Cardiol 1988:12:600-5.
Electrogastrography: Methodology, Validation and Applications

Electrogastrography (EGG) is a non-invasive method for the measurement of gastric myoelectrical activity. It was first discovered in 1921 and popularized in 1990s. EGG is attractive because it is non-invasive. However, due to its non-invasive nature, there have also been controversies regarding validity and applications of EGG. The aim of this review is to discuss the methodologies, validation and applications of EGG. Pros and cons of EGG will also be discussed in detail. First, the gastric slow wave and its correlation with gastric motility are presented. The association between gastric dysrhythmia and impaired gastric motility is reviewed. Secondly the method for recording the electrogastrogram is presented in detail and pitfalls in the recording and analysis of EGG are discussed. Thirdly, findings reported in the literature demonstrating the accuracy of EGG in recording gastric slow waves and gastric dysrhythmia are reviewed and discussed. The correlation of the electrogastrogram with gastric contraction is carefully discussed. Finally, applications of EGG in a few major areas are reviewed.
Entanglement assisted time-energy QKD employing Franson interferometers and cavity quantum electrodynamics (CQED) principles

In this paper, we propose several entanglement assisted QKD protocols based on time-energy encoding with the number of mutually unbiased bases (MUBs) larger than two. We describe how to implement these protocols based on: (i) optical FFT device implemented in integrated optics with the help of Franson interferometers and (ii) Weyl gate. We also describe the corresponding weak-coherent state-based protocol. By employing the N -dimensional pulse position modulation (ND-PPM) approach, the secret key rate of single photon pulse per signaling interval protocols can be improved by N/log 2 N times. However, the corresponding entanglement assisted protocols require the use of cavity quantum electrodynamics (CQED) principles to further entangle single photon pulse per frame state. We then analyze the security of the proposed protocols and provide the finite secret key rates in the presence of various imperfections including background errors and timing jitter, for which we propose the K -neighbor model. Finally, we provide the improvements in secret key rates of proposed protocol over conventional two-base time-energy QKD protocol.
Automatic and intentional memory processes in visual search.

Previous research has indicated that saccade target selection during visual search is influenced by scanning history. Already inspected items are less likely to be chosen as saccade targets as long as the number intervening saccades is small. Here, we adapted Jacoby’s (1991) process dissociation procedure to assess the role of intentional and automatic processes in saccade target selection. Results indicate a large automatic component biasing participants to move their eyes to unexamined locations. However, an intentional component allowed participants to both reinspect old items and aid their selection of new items. A second experiment examined inhibition of return (IOR) as a candidate for the observed automatic component. IOR was found for items that had been previously examined. It is concluded that both automatic and intentional memory traces are available to guide the eyes during search.
The dynamics of formation of the O2-CoII bond in the cobalt(II) cyclidene complexes

Abstract The kinetics of O 2 binding to a vacant coordination site on the cobalt(II) ion have been determined, revealing a radical-like character for the reaction. Reversible oxygenation of Co(II) cyclidenes (C4, C5, C6, C8, C12-bridged and unbridged) was studied by a cryogenic stopped-flow method. In the presence of axial base, kinetic parameters are insensitive to the nature of the solvent, and negative entropies of activation suggest that dissociation of a solvent molecule is not the rate-determining step for the dioxygen binding process. This is in contrast to the behavior of previously studied Co(II) complexes. A very low activation energy (1–4 kcal mol −1 ), typical of diffusion controlled processes, was found for dioxygen binding. The binding rate constants for the highest affinity complexes (10 8 M −1 s −1 ) are comparable to the values for natural dioxygen carriers. The size of the lacuna primarily affects the dioxygen binding rates, while the axial bases influence the dioxygen dissociation rates.
A geometric approach to regulator and tracker design for an aerospace plane

The paper presents a nonlinear design approach drawing from singular perturbations, feedback linearization, and variable structure control, that leads to regulators with automatic gain scheduling which exhibit similar dynamic behavior over the entire flight envelope of the aerospace plane. Additionally, design approach provides for a systematic way to counter disturbance effects as well as modeling uncertainties. The unifying feature of the three nonlinear feedback control methodologies is that they all have a geometric interpretation. First, the translational dynamics are decomposed into reduced-order slow and fast dynamics by way of a formal singular perturbation analysis. After feedback linearization the fast dynamics are robustly stabilized via a variable structure control approach. The slow dynamics are stabilized using conventional proportional-integral compensation based on the nominal slow dynamics. A number of sample command and disturbance responses at opposite ends of the flight envelope are presented for a nonlinear aerospace plane model.
The normalization of solar X-ray data from many experiments.

A conversion factor is used to convert Geiger (GM) tube count rates or ion chamber currents into units of the incident X-ray energy flux in a specified passband. A method is described which varies the passband to optimize these conversion factors such that they are relatively independent of the spectrum of the incident photons. This method was applied to GM tubes flown on Explorers 33 and 35 and Mariner 5 and to ion chambers flown on OSO 3 and OGO 4. Revised conversion factors and passbands are presented, and the resulting absolute solar X-ray fluxes based on these are shown to improve the agreement between the various experiments. Calculations have shown that, although the GM tubes on Explorer 33 viewed the Sun off-axis, the effective passband did not change appreciably, and the simple normalization of the count rates to the count rates of a similar GM tube on Explorer 35 was justified. It is also shown that for the type 6213 GM tube, the passband is effectively 3 to 12 A although gas pressure and window thickness variations may give rise to numerical conversion factor differences of a factor of 6.
p38α Stabilizes Interleukin-6 mRNA via Multiple AU-rich Elements

AU-rich elements (AREs) in the 3′-untranslated region (UTR) ofunstable mRNA dictate their degradation or mediate translational repression.Cell signaling through p38α MAPK is necessary for post-transcriptionalregulation of many pro-inflammatory cytokines. Here, the cis-actingelements of interleukin-6 (IL-6) 3′-UTR mRNA that required p38αsignaling for mRNA stability and translation were identified. Using mouseembryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) derived from p38α+/+ andp38α–/– mice, we observed that p38α isobligatory for the IL-1-induced IL-6 biosynthesis. IL-6 mRNA stability ispromoted by p38α via 3′-UTR. To understand the mechanism ofcis-elements regulated by p38α at post-transcriptional level,truncation of 3′-UTR and the full-length 3′-UTR with individualAUUUA motif mutation placed in gene reporter system was employed.Mutation-based screen performed in p38α+/+ andp38α–/– mouse embryonic fibroblast cells revealedthat ARE1, ARE2, and ARE5 in IL-6 3′-UTR were targeted by p38α,and truncation-based screen showed that IL-6 3′-UTR-(56–173) wastargeted by p38α to stable mRNA. RNA secondary structure analysisindicated that modulated reporter gene expression was consistent withpredicted secondary structure changes.
Unique physicochemical properties of the occluded penaeid shrimp baculoviruses and their use in diagnosis of infections

Abstract Occlusion bodies in wet mounts of phloxine-stained tissue squashes and paraffin sections of penaeid shrimp infected with Baculovirus penaei and Penaeus monodon-type baculovirus fluoresced when viewed with an epifluorescent microscope. Inclusions of hepatopancreatic parvo-like virus, infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis virus, and Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus did not fluoresce. The use of phloxine stain (alone or as a component of an eosin preparation) and fluorescent microscopy may enhance detection of lowgrade infections by these disease-causing agents.
Processes of mantle enrichment and magmatic differentiation in the eastern Snake River Plain: Th isotope evidence

Abstract The ∼ 85 km long Great Rift of southern Idaho bisects the volcanic depression that forms the eastern Snake River Plain. Thorium isotope systematics of compositionally diverse lavas of the Great Rift, including those of Craters of the Moon, record a spectrum of crust and mantle processes. ( 230 Th ) ( 232 Th ) ratios range from 0.87 to 1.11 and are enriched in ( 230 Th) with respect to ( 238 U) by up to 13%. Covariations in Th isotope systematics in lavas from Craters of the Moon reflect crustal assimilation accompanied by fractional crstallization involving accessory phases. Temperatures based on apatite and zircon saturation confirm other estimates of magmatic temperatures and, considered together with volcanic histories, suggest cooling in upper crustal magma chambers at rates of > 10° C/ka. Thermal and chemical evolution of the Great Rift basalts support their differentiation at lower crustal conditions. Although basalts of the eastern Snake River Plain are generally interpreted as having originated in ancient enriched mantle lithosphere beneath southern Idaho, they share remarkable chemical similarities with oceanic basalts derived from enriched sources attributed to mantle plumes. Thorium isotope signatures of the Great Rift basalts are those of depleted mantle, resulting in the most extreme case of disparity between 232 Th 238 U ratios delimited by Th and Pb isotope systematics. It is difficult to account for this decoupling by invoking subduction-related U enrichment. A more likely explanation is metasomatism of hybrid lithospheric mantle in the wake of the Yellowstone plume.
Substance P release in the dorsal horn assessed by receptor internalization: NMDA receptors counteract a tonic inhibition by GABAB receptors

Inhibitory amino acids have antinociceptive actions in the spinal cord that may involve inhibition of neurotransmitter release from primary afferents. Rat spinal cord slices with dorsal roots were used to study the effect of GABA and glycine on substance P release, assessed by the internalization of neurokinin 1 receptors. After electrical stimulation of the dorsal root at 100 Hz, about half of neurokinin 1 receptor-immunoreactive neurons in laminae I-IIo showed internalization. This internalization was inhibited by GABA (100 microM) and the GABA(B) agonist R-baclofen (10 microM), but not by the GABA(A) agonist muscimol (20 microM) or glycine (100 microM). The GABA(B) antagonist 2-hydroxysaclofen (100 microM) reversed the inhibitory effect of GABA, but not the GABA(A) antagonist bicuculline (100 microM). These findings demonstrate that GABA(B) receptors, but not GABA(A) or glycine receptors, inhibit substance P release induced by dorsal root stimulation. In contrast, R-baclofen did not inhibit the internalization produced by NMDA (100 microM), indicating that the stimulatory effect of NMDA receptors on substance P release is able to surmount the inhibitory effect of GABA(B) receptors. In the presence of the GABA(B) antagonist 2-hydroxysaclofen (100 microM), but not in its absence, stimulation of the dorsal root at 1 or 10 Hz was able to elicit internalization, which was not inhibited by the NMDA receptor antagonist AP-5 (50 microM) or the channel blocker MK-801 (10 microM). Therefore, inhibition of substance P release by GABA(B) receptors is tonic, and in its absence SP release no longer requires NMDA receptor activation.
Reaction of α,β-unsaturated acid chlorides with β-diketones. Synthesis of 4,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2H-1-benzopyran-2,5(3H)-diones

Reaction of an α,β-unsaturated acid chloride with the anion of 5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexane-dione (2) gives either the enol ester (4) or a cyclized product (5), depending upon the reaction conditions. When the acid chloride is in excess, the ester is obtained. When the anion is in excess and the acid chloride is acryloyl or crotonyl, the cyclized product is obtained. A similar cyclized product (9) was formed from acryloyl chloride and an excess of the anion of 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-2-pyrone (8).
Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of amelia

Amelia is a very rare form of limb reduction defect. The incidence of isolated amelia with or without other limb reductions is 0.4 per 100 000 births. We report a cluster of three cases diagnosed prenatally. One was isolated tri-amelia and two were isolated tetra-amelia.
High-power coherent GaAs-based monolithic diode lasers

To obtain high coherent powers from large aperture devices in stable beam patterns one needs to use active photonic- lattice (APL) structures of large built-in index step. Resonant phase-locked arrays of antiguides have provided 1.6 W CW coherent power from 200 micrometers -wide apertures. ARROW- type devices, simpler APL structures, hold the potential for emitting 1 W single-mode power reliably in stable beam patterns.