cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biodegradable Elastomeric Scaffolds with Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Release

Scaffolds that better approximate the mechanical properties of cardiovascular and other soft tissues might provide a more appropriate mechanical environment for tissue development or healing in vivo. An ability to induce local angiogenesis by controlled release of an angiogenic factor, such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), from a biodegradable scaffold with mechanical properties more closely approximating soft tissue could find application in a variety of settings. Toward this end biodegradable poly(ester urethane)urea (PEUU) scaffolds loaded with bFGF were fabricated by thermally induced phase separation. Scaffold morphology, mechanical properties, release kinetics, hydrolytic degradation and bioactivity of the released bFGF were assessed. The scaffolds had inter-connected pores with porosities of 90% or greater and pore sizes ranging from 34-173 microm. Scaffolds had tensile strengths of 0.25-2.8 MPa and elongations at break of 81-443%. Incorporation of heparin into the scaffold increased the initial burst release of bFGF, while the initial bFGF loading content did not change release kinetics significantly. The released bFGF remained bioactive over 21 days as assessed by smooth muscle mitogenicity. Scaffolds loaded with bFGF showed slightly higher degradation rates than unloaded control scaffolds. Smooth muscle cells seeded into the scaffolds with bFGF showed higher cell densities than for control scaffolds after 7 days of culture. The bFGF-releasing PEUU scaffolds thus exhibited a combination of mechanical properties and bioactivity that might be attractive for use in cardiovascular and other soft tissue applications.
Contraceptive use in women undergoing bariatric surgery.

Summary Introduction Contraceptive counselling in women undergoing bariatric surgery is crucial due to increased risk of foetal growth restriction postoperatively. We evaluate if women undergoing bariatric surgery are being counselled about and using contraception. Methods A 36-question survey was sent electronically to patients at the Miriam Hospital Bariatric Center in Providence, Rhode Island. Results Of the thirty-five women included in our study, 85.7% and 80% reported receiving contraceptive counselling and advice to avoid pregnancy in the 12–24 months following surgery, respectively. Only 65.7% were using contraception. More women using contraception reported receiving counselling (95.7% vs. 66.7%) and knew to avoid pregnancy postoperatively (82.6% vs. 75%) than women not using contraception. Contraceptive use declined over time following surgery. Conclusion We have identified an important opportunity for healthcare providers to promote ongoing compliance with contraception for women undergoing bariatric surgery.
Effect of khellin on coronary artery insufficiency as evaluated by electrocardiographic tests.

The effectiveness of khellin in 9 patients with angina pectoris was evaluated electrocardiographically by means of the exercise tolerance, anoxemia and ergonovine tests. Normalization occurred in the majority of the previously abnormal tests following khellin therapy. A beneficial effect was noted on symptoms accompanied by a reduction in nitroglycerin requirement. Mild toxicity, as a result of khellin therapy, was observed in 3 cases.
A Small Phospholipase A2-α from Castor Catalyzes the Removal of Hydroxy Fatty Acids from Phosphatidylcholine in Transgenic Arabidopsis Seeds

Ricinoleic acid, an industrially useful hydroxy fatty acid (HFA), only accumulates to high levels in the triacylglycerol fraction of castor (Ricinus communis) endosperm, even though it is synthesized on the membrane lipid phosphatidylcholine (PC) from an oleoyl ester. The acyl chains of PC undergo intense remodeling through the process of acyl editing. The identities of the proteins involved in this process, however, are unknown. A phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is thought to be involved in the acyl-editing process. We show here a role for RcsPLA2α in the acyl editing of HFA esterified to PC. RcsPLA2α was identified by its high relative expression in the castor endosperm transcriptome. Coexpression in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seeds of RcsPLA2α with the castor fatty acid hydroxylase RcFAH12 led to a dramatic decrease in seed HFA content when compared with RcFAH12 expression alone in both PC and the neutral lipid fraction. The low-HFA trait was heritable and gene dosage dependent, with hemizygous lines showing intermediate HFA levels. The low seed HFA levels suggested that RcsPLA2α functions in vivo as a PLA2 with HFA specificity. Activity assays with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) microsomes showed a high specificity of RcsPLA2α for ricinoleic acid, superior to that of the endogenous Arabidopsis PLA2α. These results point to RcsPLA2α as a phospholipase involved in acyl editing, adapted to specifically removing HFA from membrane lipids in seeds.
Static Laboratory Earthquake Measurements with the Digital Image Correlation Method

Mapping full-field displacement and strain changes on the Earth’s surface following an earthquake is of paramount importance to enhance our understanding of earthquake mechanics. Currently, aerial and satellite images taken pre- and post-earthquake can be processed with sub-pixel correlation algorithms to infer the co-seismic ground deformations (e.g., [1, 2]). However, the interpretation of this data is not straightforward due to the inherent complexity of natural faults and deformation fields. To gain understanding into rupture mechanics and to help interpret complex rupture features occurring in nature, we develop a laboratory earthquake setup capable of reproducing displacement and strain maps similar to those obtained in the field, while maintaining enough simplicity so that clear conclusions can be drawn. Earthquakes are mimicked in the laboratory by dynamic rupture propagating along an inclined frictional interface formed by two Homalite plates under compression (e.g., [3]). In our study, the interface is partially glued, in order to confine the rupture before it reaches the ends of the specimen. The specimens are painted with a speckle pattern to provide the surface with characteristic features for image matching. Images of the specimens are taken before and after dynamic rupture with a 4 Megapixels resolution CCD camera. The digital images are analyzed with two software packages for sub-pixel correlation: VIC-2D (Correlated Solutions Inc.) and COSI-Corr [1]. Both VIC-2D and COSI-Corr are able to characterize the full-field static displacement of the experimentally produced dynamic shear ruptures. The correlation analysis performed with either software clearly shows (i) the relative displacement (slip) along the frictional interface, (ii) the rupture arrest on the glued boundaries, and (iii) the presence of wing cracks. The obtained displacement measurements are converted to strains, using non-local de-noising techniques; stresses are obtained by introducing Homalite’s constitutive properties. This study is a first step towards using the digital image correlation method in combination with high-speed photography to capture the highly transient phenomena involved in dynamic rupture.
Are you asking the right admission questions when assessing dyspnea

Background Dyspnea is an important admission parameter to detect undiagnosed cardiopulmonary conditions. The typical admission question, “Are you short of breath?” can give insufficient or misleading data. Objectives A group of clinical research nurses sought to improve dyspnea assessments by using a more accurate measure that would not unduly lengthen the admission process itself. The methodology used to achieve this outcome was research utilization. Methods On admission, 103 patients were given the standard question “Are you short of breath?” followed by 4 Visual Analog Scales of Dyspnea (VASD). These response measures assess the degree of dyspnea in relationship to variable exertion activities on a scale of 0 to 10. All responses to VASD were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results The results showed that 30% of patients who responded “No” to the shortness of breath query scored 5 or more for dyspnea on the VASD. All scores of 5 or more were reported to the primary care provider for further workup. Conclusion The results from this project gave impetus to designing a more formal research study that could validate VASD use in clinical admission assessments.
Unbiased scores in proportional hazards regression with covariate measurement error

Abstract This paper studies estimation of regression parameters in proportional hazards regression when covariates are subject to additive measurement error. It is shown how to construct an unbiased partial likelihood score when the moment generating function of the measurement error exists. The score is unbiased over a restriction on the parameter space where the restriction depends on the domain of definition of the moment generating function. For normal measurment error, the score is unbiased over the entire parameter space. A simulation study indicates that the score yields an estimator that is effective in reducing bias induced by covariate measurement error.
A profile of skin cancer prevention media coverage in 2009.

Background Little is known about the coverage of skin cancer prevention messages in news print media. Objective To perform a content analysis of mass-media articles from newspaper and magazines pertaining to skin cancer prevention in 4 specific months (January, May, July, and October) in 2009 and assess the extent of coverage of skin cancer prevention messages. Methods We conducted a content analysis of 144 articles related to skin cancer prevention extracted from strategic media scans of selected months in 2009. We sought to provide the frequency of mass-media content categorized by theme and focus related to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) protection and risk-reducing behaviors. Results The audience for the vast majority (78%) of the articles was the general public. Among the assessed articles, more were published in May (49%) and July (35%) than in the remaining other months. The two most frequent themes focused on ‘protection of the skin' (32%) and on ‘skin cancer prevention' (23%) via risk reduction behavioral practices. Analysis of message content regarding UVR reduction practices showed that many mentioned ‘use of sunscreen' (65% of messages) with the least-often mentioned behaviors being ‘seek shade' (6.3%) and ‘do not burn' (1.4%). In addition, a quarter of the articles lacked any content mentioning recommended UVR reduction behaviors. Limitations This study was limited to the narrow scope of articles published in 2009 and for selected months. Conclusions This profile of mass-media content regarding skin cancer prevention revealed gaps in coverage of UVR reduction behaviors with possible room for improvement. Strategies for improving and comprehensiveness of coverage of recommended skin cancer prevention behaviors in the media are discussed.
Coupled biotic–abiotic Mn(II) oxidation pathway mediates the formation and structural evolution of biogenic Mn oxides

Abstract Manganese (Mn) oxides are among the strongest oxidants and sorbents in the environment, impacting the transport and speciation of metals, cycling of carbon, and flow of electrons within soils and sediments. The oxidation of Mn(II) to Mn(III/IV) oxides has been primarily attributed to biological processes, due in part to the faster rates of bacterial Mn(II) oxidation compared to observed mineral-induced and other abiotic rates. Here we explore the reactivity of biogenic Mn oxides formed by a common marine bacterium ( Roseobacter sp. AzwK-3b), which has been previously shown to oxidize Mn(II) via the production of extracellular superoxide. Oxidation of Mn(II) by superoxide results in the formation of highly reactive colloidal birnessite with hexagonal symmetry. The colloidal oxides induce the rapid oxidation of Mn(II), with dramatically accelerated rates in the presence of organics, presumably due to mineral surface-catalyzed organic radical generation. Mn(II) oxidation by the colloids is further accelerated in presence of both organics and light, implicating reactive oxygen species in aiding abiotic oxidation. Indeed, the enhancement of Mn(II) oxidation is negated when the colloids are reacted with Mn(II) in the presence of superoxide dismutase, an enzyme that scavenges the reactive oxygen species (ROS) superoxide. The reactivity of the colloidal phase is short-lived due to the rapid evolution of the birnessite from hexagonal to pseudo-orthogonal symmetry. The secondary particulate triclinic birnessite phase exhibits a distinct lack of Mn(II) oxidation and subsequent Mn oxide formation. Thus, the evolution of initial reactive hexagonal birnessite to non-reactive triclinic birnessite imposes the need for continuous production of new colloidal hexagonal particles for Mn(II) oxidation to be sustained, illustrating an intimate dependency of enzymatic and mineral-based reactions in Mn(II) oxidation. Further, the coupled enzymatic and mineral-induced pathways are linked such that enzymatic formation of Mn oxide is requisite for the mineral-induced pathway to occur. Here, we show that Mn(II) oxidation involves a complex network of abiotic and biotic processes, including enzymatically produced superoxide, mineral catalysis, organic reactions with mineral surfaces, and likely photo-production of ROS. The complexity of coupled reactions involved in Mn(II) oxidation here highlights the need for further investigations of microbially-mediated Mn oxide formation, including identifying the role of Mn oxide surfaces, organics, reactive oxygen species, and light in Mn(II) oxidation and Mn oxide phase evolution.
Decentralized weighted voting for P2P data management

This paper presents a decentralized variant of David Gifford's classic weighted-voting scheme for managing replicated data. Weighted voting offers a familiar consistency model and supports on-line replica reconfiguration. These properties make it a good fit for applications in the pervasive computing domain. By distributing versioned metadata along with data replicas, and managing access to both data and metadata with the same quorums, our algorithm supports a peer-to-peer environment with dynamic device membership. Our algorithm has been implemented as part of a database called Oasis that was designed for pervasive environments.
Ethnicity and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in an Obesity Clinic: The Impact of Triglycerides

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing problem that is associated with the metabolic syndrome. The goal of the present study was to evaluate for ethnic differences in NAFLD and clinical correlates of NAFLD. The study population consisted of 567 patients seen at an urban obesity clinic. Elevated aminotransferase levels were used as a surrogate marker for NAFLD. The prevalence of elevated aminotransferases was highest in Hispanics (39%), followed by Caucasians (28%), and African Americans (12%). In univariate analysis, elevated aminotransferase levels were associated with ethnicity (Hispanic > African American, P African American P = 0.030), hypertriglyceridemia (P < 0.001), and male gender (P < 0.001). The pattern of results was confirmed in multivariate analysis, except that the differences between Caucasians and African Americans was no longer significant. In conclusion, in an obesity clinic population, elevated aminotransferase levels and hypertriglyceridemia were most common in Hispanics and least common in African Americans.
Helping Your Patients Improve Their Health: A Primer On Behavior Change for Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Abstract Primary care physicians receive little formal training on the process of behavior change, yet we are charged with helping patients modify unhealthy behaviors and adhere to prescribed regimens. Understanding the stages of behavior change is an important prerequisite for assisting our patients. The process begins when a patient who is not concerned about a particular behavior (precontemplation) acknowledges that it is unhealthy (contemplation). The patient makes concrete plans to institute a change (preparation) when she feels empowered and self-confident. Implementing a behavior change (action) requires that the patient make a firm commitment and set a specific date. Relapse is actively averted (maintenance) by renewing commitments, developing interpersonal supports, and anticipating what to do in challenging situations. When relapse occurs, it is viewed as inevitable for some and the circumstances leading to relapse are examined carefully to guide future attempts. For each stage of change there are specific steps physicians can take to promote progress to the next stage and ultimately to maintaining a new and healthy behavior. Patients with coexisting psychiatric conditions, including chemical dependency, may benefit more from intensive treatment programs than from office-based counseling. In these cases, our behavioral goal is for the patient to accept the treatment program referral. Counseling and health education are vital components of primary and preventive health care, and they are valued by patients, physicians, and third-party payers.
Inclusion complex formation of β-cyclodextrin and Naproxen: a study on exothermic complex formation by differential scanning calorimetry

Inclusion complex formation between β-cyclodextrin and Naproxen was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as a function of the β-cyclodextrin-to-Naproxen molar ratio, ranging from 0:5:1 to 5:1. When these mixtures are heated above the melting temperature of Naproxen, an exothermic peak is observed at a temperature slightly higher than the melting peak of Naproxen. This peak, which has not been previously reported, has been interpreted as an exothermic energy of inclusion complex formation. The magnitude of this complex formation peak was found to be dependent upon the composition of the β-cyclodextrin and Naproxen mixture and increased in magnitude to a maximum value at a β-cyclodextrin:Naproxen molar ratio of 2:1. In addition, Naproxen recrystallization and re-melting peaks seen in the cooling and re-heating scans, respectively, decreased in magnitude with increasing molar ratio and totally disappeared for the mixture with 5:1 of β-cyclodextrin to Naproxen ratio indicative of complete inclusion of Naproxen in the cyclodextrin cavities. Complete inclusion was further reflected by the disappearance of key Naproxen peaks in Fourier transform infrared spectra of samples recovered from DSC experiments. The large excess of β-cyclodextrin needed to fully complex the Naproxen was found to be due to slow kinetics. Increasing the hold time after the initial melting led to inclusion efficiencies up to 95 % even for the 2:1 mixture. These experiments suggest that ratios of β-cyclodextrin:Naproxen 2:1 or greater facilitate the process by increasing the presence of cyclodextrin molecules in the close proximity of the drug molecules and lead to high inclusion efficiencies.
What Is Asperger Syndrome

The prevalence of Asperger Syndrome appears to be increasing, yet many individuals are still not being diagnosed during their school years. It is imperative to disseminate knowledge regarding the c...
Adaptive Localized Replay: An efficient integration scheme for accurate simulation of coarsening dynamical systems

Coarsening dynamical systems (CDS) of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) have as a defining feature the presence of discontinuities in the governing equations, due to the removal of vanishing elements from the system. Simple, commonly-used integration strategies for ODEs neglect these discontinuities, resulting in large errors. In contrast, available methods to resolve discontinuities exhibit total running times that scale like O(N^2) as the number of elements N->~. The resulting need to choose between either speed or accuracy frustrates attempts to gather well-converged statistical data from large ensembles of elements, a common goal in studies of coarsening. In this work, we introduce a numerical scheme, called Adaptive Localized Replay (ALR), which overcomes this dilemma, provided the underlying system has sparse neighbor dependence. By analyzing the system after each timestep, and then selectively re-simulating only those (small) parts of the system that were affected by discontinuities, we attain high-order accuracy while maintaining running times of O(N). Using a reference implementation of our algorithm, applied to a sample problem from the field of faceted surface evolution, we obtain convergence and runtime results for the ALR method, which compares favorably with existing methods.
A shallow water equation as a geodesic flow on the Bott-Virasoro group

Abstract The Camassa-Holm equation is shown to give rise to a geodesic flow of a certain right invariant metric on the Bott-Virasoro group. The sectional curvature of this metric is computed and shown to assume positive and negative signs.
An optimal control approach to pilot/vehicle analysis and the Neal-Smith criteria

The approach of Neal and Smith was merged with the advances in pilot modeling by means of optimal control techniques. While confirming the findings of Neal and Smith, a methodology that explicitly includes the pilot's objective in attitude tracking was developed. More importantly, the method yields the required system bandwidth along with a better pilot model directly applicable to closed-loop analysis of systems in any order.
Capital formation and demographics

Abstract Low rates of saving and capital formation have been a disturbing and persistent characteristic of the United States' economy. The leading explanation of this phenomenon is based on the effects of inflation under our nonindexed tax system—a financial explanation. This paper explores, with a simple life-cycle savings model with irreversible capital, whether a real explanation exists. The analysis indicates that plausible prospective declines in the growth rate of the working-age population can lower the equilibrium interest rate and the rates of saving and capital formation in spite of a relatively high marginal product of capital. The policy implications of the real explanation are also discussed.
Airbag Safety and the Distance of the Driver from the Steering Wheel

To the Editor: Actuarial data indicate that driver-side airbags reduce the overall risk of death from a car accident by 11 percent,1 but airbag-induced injuries (both fatal and nonfatal) have been ...
Optimum placement for optoelectronic multichip modules and the synthesis of diffractive optics for multichip module interconnects

Decreasing the system volume for optoelectronic (OE) planar systems is achieved by advancing computer-aided design of OE multichip modules (MCM’s). It is shown that in order to minimize the volume in an OE MCM, it is necessary to minimize the maximum interconnect distance. To achieve this, we have developed placement algorithms based on the constraints of a given irregular interconnect pattern. Results are given for a twin-butterfly network for two general physical models: a transmissive MCM and a reflective MCM. We then show three different types of hologram design that can be used to implement the interconnect array. These elements are for reconstruction in the near field and are fabricated by direct-write electron-beam lithography. Both simulated and experimental reconstructions are demonstrated.
Transcriptional regulation of T-cell genes during T-cell development

The expression of many T cell specific genes has been shown to be regulated at the transcriptional level. Recent studies of T-cell specific promoters and enhancers have allowed the identification of a number of transcription factors that appear to play distinct but complementary roles in regulating gene expression during T-cell development and activation.
Confusion of the mathematical notation for defining the residence time

Abstract The inverse of the mean residence time of an element in the sea is, by the first approximation, equal to the removal rate constant of that element in the sea.
Teaching in an Urban, Multiracial Physical Education Program: The Power of Context

The purpose of this study was to identify contextual factors affecting the conduct of a physical education program in an urban, multiracial junior high school. Using particiant observation, formal interviews, and informal discussion with teachers and students, the investigator spent 84 hours in the school observing class and nonclass interactions. Four contextual factors affecting the conduct of the physical education program were identified. (a) outdoor activity space, (b) central office policies, (c) schoolbased professional support for teaching, and (d) the unique qualities of urban, multiracial schools. The results are discussed in terms of the effects of contextual factors on the quality of curriculum and instruction possible in a particular school. Analysis of data from this field study underscores the importance of considering contextual factors in defining expectations for what physical educators can achieve. A primary conclusion is that in at least some instances, change in physical education mus...
Patient characteristics and prescription patterns of atypical antipsychotics among patients with schizophrenia

Summary Background: Schizophrenia, one of the leading causes of disability, contributes substantially to the use of medical and mental health services. The treatment of schizophrenia is therefore particularly important to reduce deficits across a large number of neurocognitive domains. Objective: To describe the prescription (e.g. initiation and switching) patterns of atypical antipsychotic agents and examine the extent to which patient sociodemographic and clinical characteristics are associated with the prescription patterns of atypical antipsychotics among patients with schizophrenia. Methods: Using unique data sources from the Veterans Health Administration (VA), the study identified 89 107 patients with schizophrenia based on at least one inpatient or more than or equal to two outpatients' ICD-9-CM codes (≥7 days apart). We defined a prior 6-month (1/1/99 to 6/30/99) and a post 6-month (7/1/99 to 12/31/99) period to describe patterns of initiation and switching of atypical antipsychotics. Results: Only a small number of patients were on clozapine (1·8%) and quetiapine (1·4%). More patients were prescribed olanzapine (23%) than risperidone (20%) (P < 0·001). Compared with patients who were on risperidone, those who were on olanzapine were younger (P < 0·001), more likely Hispanic (P < 0·001), more likely married (P < 0·05), had more service-connected disability (P < 0·001), had fewer numbers of physical comorbidities (P < 0·001), and a lower body mass index (BMI) (P < 0·05). Conclusion: Olanzapine and risperidone appear to be prescribed to patients with different sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Future research needs to explore the reasons for those differences.
Orthogonal code design for passive wireless sensors

Quasi-orthogonal codes are implemented on the miniaturized passive sensor units, thus providing multiple access capabilities. A wireless temperature sensor system based on passive surface acoustic wave devices is designed and implemented. Experimental results obtained from a prototype system are in agreement with expected system response.
Cognitive Factors in the Extinction of the Conditioned Eyelid Response in Humans

Rate of extinction of the conditioned eyelid response in humans is a function of the degree of discriminability of the procedural changes that occur with shift from acquisition to extinction. Extinction is greatly retarded when these changes are minimized or the subject is distracted by another task.
Argatroban use during pediatric interventional cardiac catheterization

Argatroban is a synthetic direct thrombin inhibitor that does not interact with or induce heparin-dependent antibodies. It is approved for use in adults for prevention and treatment of thrombosis associated with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). It has been administered safely in adults with HIT during coronary interventions. There are no reports of argatroban use for anticoagulation in pediatric patients. The present case describes the use of argatroban during coil embolization of a Fontan fenestration in a child with a history of HIT. The patient received a single bolus dose of 150 μg/kg of argatroban at the onset of the intervention. The fenestration was successfully occluded with a detachable coil. The activated clotting time (ACT) was > 200 sec throughout the procedure. The ACT returned to baseline 72 min after the bolus. No complications occurred. This case demonstrates the safe and successful use of argatroban during a transcatheter intervention in a pediatric patient with a history of HIT. The use of argatroban is promising for anticoagulation in children who require an alternative to heparin. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;61:147–149. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Theatre voice training and technology in teaching oral skills: Integrating the components of a speech event

Abstract This paper provides a sequence of specific techniques and examples for implementing theatre voice training and technology in teaching ESL/EFL oral skills. A layered approach is proposed based on information processing theory in which the focus of learner attention is shifted in stages from the physiological to the linguistic and then to the discourse level of speech where the components of a speech event are integrated. Objectives move from awareness to practice for improvement of voice quality, fluency, and intelligibility. Learner responses move from choral to individual to interactive. Techniques address expansion of vowel space, breathing linked to rhythm and pausing, voice projection and flow, enhancement of pitch range, shadowing and mirroring, monologue and dialogue. Technology is incorporated through visual pitch displays that provide informative learner feedback, and a Web-based tool that provides integration of video with the associated pitch contour and allows annotations for feedback on various elements (e.g., gestures) of a speech event. Techniques draw from drama pedagogy emphasizing contextualized meaningful communication.
Contrast-induced acute kidney injury and diabetic nephropathy

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CIAKI) is a leading cause of iatrogenic renal failure. Multiple studies have shown that patients with diabetic nephropathy are at high risk of CIAKI. This Review presents an overview of the pathogenesis of CIAKI in patients with diabetic nephropathy and discusses the currently available and potential future strategies for CIAKI prevention.
Characterization of the hyperlipidemia in guinea pigs induced by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.

Abstract Treatment of adult male guinea pigs with a single dose of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), 6.2 nmol (2.0 μg)/kg body wt, induces a marked hyperlipidemia characterized by a 19-fold increase in very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and a 4-fold increase in low-density lipoproteins (LDL) compared to pair-fed control animals. VLDL from TCDD-treated animals were similar in size and electrophoretic mobility to VLDL from pair-fed control animals, but they contained less cholesteryl ester and an altered pattern of C apoproteins on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels. LDL from TCDD-treated animals were larger than LDL from pair-fed controls and contained more phospholipid and less protein than LDL from pair-fed control animals. In addition, LDL from TCDD-treated animals contained increased amounts of apoprotein C as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. No change in the concentration or properties of serum high-density lipoproteins was observed. Serum free fatty acids, triglycerides, and cholesteryl esters from TCDD-treated animals were enriched in linoleic acid (18:2), a principal fatty acid of adipose tissue. This suggests that mobilization of adipose tissue fatty acids in TCDD-treated animals may lead to increased hepatic lipoprotein production. However, weight-paired control animals did not become hyperlipidemic. Thus, in addition to mobilizing adipose tissue fatty acids, TCDD may alter the relative rates of anabolic and/or catabolic processes controlling serum VLDL and LDL concentrations in the guinea pig.
Learning from experience, reference points, and decision costs

Abstract This paper examines the process by which individuals learn from experience in economic settings. An experiment compared the forecasting accuracy across three groups of subjects. The results support previous findings that individuals utilize reference points during the learning process. Here it is argued that as a result, affine transformations of the payoff function can affect the degree to which the equilibrium decisions will be consistent with the Nash predictions. Similarly, increasing the marginal rewards from making more accurate decisions may have minimal effects. These findings suggest that the appropriateness of normative models as descriptions of individual behavior may depend upon the reference point utilized during the learning process.
The reduction of Furacin by cell-free extracts of Furacin-resistant and parent-susceptible strains of Escherichia coli

Abstract Two types of Furacin reduction have been demonstrated in cell-free extracts of Escherichia coli . One of these types is DPN-linked and involves loss of a characteristic light-absorption peak at 375 mμ and the concomitant appearance of a new peak at 335 mμ A second type involves the loss of the absorption peak at 375 mμ without the appearance of any new peak. This second type of reduction appears to be mediated by a flavoprotein which can utilize either DPNH or TPNH as a source of hydrogen and electrons. After inactivation with acid, the flavoprotein could be reactivated with 1 × 10 −6 M FP but not by an equivalent amount of FAD. Extracts of Furacin-resistant and parent-susceptible strains of E. coli showed identical activity for the first type of Furacin reduction, but extracts of resistant strains showed complete loss of activity for the second type. Apparently Furacin can serve as a hydrogen carrier between flavoprotein and cytochrome c in a manner similar to that of menadione.
Stability of nonprismatic members

Abstract The stability of nonprismatic beam-columns is studied using the stiffness method of analysis to simulate the beam-columns. Shear deformation effects are included and their influence on the stability of tapered and laced columns is studied.
Monomeric and polymeric collagen-induced platelet aggregation in citrated and heparinized platelet-rich plasma.

The physical and chemical properties of Type I bovine collagens were studied in relation to their platelet aggregating activity in citrated and heparinized human platelet-rich plasmas (PRP). Despite close similarities in physical and chemical properties, significant differences were found in platelet aggregating potency between two monomelic atelocollagens. Skin atelocollagen was a potent and corneal atelocollagen was a very weak inducer of platelet aggregation in citrated and heparinized PRP. In a polymeric form, however, corneal atelocollagen was a stronger platelet aggregating agent than monomelic skin acid-soluble or atelocollagen. Removal of the telopeptides altered some of the characteristics of the platelet aggregation induced by monomelic skin collagen. The rate and maximum extent of aggregation were the same with skin acid-soluble (intact) and atelocollagens in either type of PRP, but the lag periods and aggregation times were longer in citrated and somewhat shorter in heparinized PRP with skin a...
The effects of implosives on pitch in SiSwati

L'article analyse l'effet des consonnes implosives sur la frequence fondamentale de la voyelle qui les suit en SiSwati (langue Bantoue du groupe Nguni)
Joint reconstruction of activity and attenuation map using LM SPECT emission data

Attenuation and scatter correction in single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging often requires a computed tomography (CT) scan to compute the attenuation map of the patient. This results in increased radiation dose for the patient, and also has other disadvantages such as increased costs and hardware complexity. Attenuation in SPECT is a direct consequence of Compton scattering, and therefore, if the scattered photon data can give information about the attenuation map, then the CT scan may not be required. In this paper, we investigate the possibility of joint reconstruction of the activity and attenuation map using list- mode (LM) SPECT emission data, including the scattered-photon data. We propose a path-based formalism to process scattered-photon data. Following this, we derive analytic expressions to compute the Cram´er-Rao bound (CRB) of the activity and attenuation map estimates, using which, we can explore the fundamental limit of information-retrieval capacity from LM SPECT emission data. We then suggest a maximum-likelihood (ML) scheme that uses the LM emission data to jointly reconstruct the activity and attenuation map. We also propose an expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm to compute the ML solution.
Family Relational Values in the Parent-Adolescent Relationship

This study measured the relational family values system of upper-middle-class mothers, fathers, and adolescents in the United States. Results revealed that participants shared common family values that mainly reflected the importance of individualism, equality in family relationships, family member interdependence, and parental guidance. Parent-adolescent relational values agreement patterns in families with early, middle, and late adolescents demonstrated high levels of agreement. The authors explore how this sample provides a basis by which to compare relational family values in other subcultures in future research and how using this measure can enhance culturally competent counseling.
Constraint criteria for adjustment of potential field surveys

In airorne gravity surveys, as well as in airborne magnetics and shipboard gravity and magnetics surveys, discrepancies between measurements on different tracks may exist at the intersections of those tracks. Advances in navigational systems, such as the implementation of the Global Positioning System, reduce discrepancies due to mislocation; but discrepancies from other sources remain. These misties should be removed before procedures such as contouring the data set or performing two‐dimensional (2-D) analyses are performed. Various approaches have been used to remove misties, but the most reasonable is to estimate the most likely error and subsequently adjust the data. The procedure is to hypothesize the “shape” of the error along the tracks and then to find errors that minimize∑Intersections(observed1+error1)-(observed2+error2)2.Error minimization has been carried out for various types of surveys with different error models (e.g., Zurflueh, 1968; Yarger et al., 1978, Sander and Mrazek, 1982). The gener...
Cluster Validity by Concurrent Chaining

A cluster is a maximal collection of suitably similar objects drawn from a larger collection of objects. Many cluster analysis procedures seek to determine a partition of objects into clusters, or more generally, to determine a hierarchy of such cluster partitions. Single-, complete-, and average-linkage are several of the most frequently cited methods that identify such a hierarchy of clusters. These simply applied linkage based procedures yield only rudimentary and often misleading information regarding the “validity” of each cluster identified. By the validity of a particular cluster we refer to the substantive significance that should be afforded that collection of objects as representing a single cluster.
Creating a Cardiac Pacemaker by Gene Therapy

While electronic cardiac pacing in its various modalities represents standard of care for treatment of symptomatic bradyarrhythmias and heart failure, it has limitations ranging from absent or rudimentary autonomic modulation to severe complications. This has prompted experimental studies to design and validate a biological pacemaker that could supplement or replace electronic pacemakers. Advances in cardiac gene therapy have resulted in a number of strategies focused on β-adrenergic receptors as well as specific ion currents that contribute to pacemaker function. This article reviews basic pacemaker physiology, as well as studies in which gene transfer approaches to develop a biological pacemaker have been designed and validated in vivo. Additional requirements and refinements necessary for successful biopacemaker function by gene transfer are discussed.
Moments of variables summing to gamma order statistics

Song, Buchberger, and Deddens (1992) derived means, variances, and covariances of variables summing to normal order statistics and proved that these variables are negatively correlated. In this paper we consider the case of variables summing to gamma order statistics. Formulas for the general product moments of these variables are obtained. Contrary to the normal case, variables summing to gamma order statistics are not necessarily negatively correlated. In addition, the covariances of variables corresponding to different order statistics are also obtained.
Expanded combinatorial formation of porphyrin macrocycles in aqueous solution containing vesicles. A prebiotic model

The role of combinatorial processes in the origin of life remains relatively unexplored. In a chemical model for the possible prebiogenesis of tetrapyrrole macrocycles reported previously, a tandem combinatorial reaction of two diones (substituents = methyl, acetic acid) and two aminoketones (substituents = ethyl, propanoic acid) afforded up to 538 porphyrins (upon oxidation of the corresponding porphyrinogens). The reaction was performed at a 1 : 1 ratio of hydrophobic and hydrophilic substituents in each pool of reactants, and the resulting porphyrins partitioned in ∼1 : 1 ratio between aqueous solution and phosphatidylcholine vesicle membranes. Here, a change in the ratio of hydrophobic and hydrophilic substituents of the [2 × 2] reaction gave corresponding changes in the polarity profile of the resulting porphyrins (3.5–9.0% yield). Reaction of four diones and four aminoketones (bearing hydrophilic or hydrophobic substituents) in the presence of lipid vesicles followed by photooxidation afforded porphyrins in 8.7% yield. The resulting porphyrins partitioned in ∼1 : 1 ratio between phosphatidylcholine vesicles and aqueous solution, as observed previously for the [2 × 2] reaction. Both the aqueous fraction and the vesicles fraction were photochemically active as evidenced by the fluorescence quantum yield (Φf ∼ 0.1). Software (PorphyrinViLiGe) for virtual library generation indicates that the [4 × 4] reaction affords up to 131 464 porphyrins. The relative insensitivity of physicochemical properties (partitioning, photoactivity) toward combinatorial expansion may be a valuable yet unappreciated attribute for prebiotic functionality.
Generalizability of the Type A/Type B Distinction Across Different Psychoactive Substances

Previous research using cluster analysis has found that abusers of both alcohol and cocaine can be categorized into more severe (Type B) and less severe (Type A) subgroups. This article sought to replicate and extend these findings in a sample of 521 inpatients, outpatients, and nontreatment-seeking abusers of alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and opiates. Cluster analyses of subsamples that met the DSM-IV criteria for dependence or abuse for alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and opiates found that the Type A/Type B distinction was largely generalizable across drugs. Type As—who consistently accounted for about 60% of all substance abuse and about half of abusers in treatment—scored lower than Type Bs on a variety of substance abuse and psychiatric measures that were administered both at intake and at a 6-month follow-up.
Mechanical Behavior of Water Deionizing Granular Material Bed for Space Life Support Systems

AbstractOne of the most critical components in the oxygen-generation and water-processing assemblies for human habitation in space is the deionizing (DI) bed—a packed bed of ion-exchange resin beads—that purifies water. The DI bed shrinks during the course of its operation, and therefore, for the bed to work satisfactorily, it must be kept properly compressed. To understand the force-transferring mechanism along the bed, sets of experimental programs were developed and conducted on the individual particles and bed samples of a DI granular material, Amberlite IRN-78. The presence of water reduced the load-bearing capacity of the individual particles, because most of the wet (water submerged) particles tested failed under relatively small crushing force, whereas the dry particles withstood a much higher load. The particle crushing force was found to be closely represented by normal and Weibull distributions. The DI material bed has a relatively small internal friction angle (shear strength). The lateral pre...
Plant-Derived Transfer DNAs

The transfer of DNA from Agrobacterium to plant cell nuclei is initiated by a cleavage reaction within the 25-bp right border of Ti plasmids. In an effort to develop all-native DNA transformation vectors, 50 putative right border alternatives were identified in both plant expressed sequence tags and genomic DNA. Efficacy tests in a tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) model system demonstrated that 14 of these elements displayed at least 50% of the activity of conventional Agrobacterium transfer DNA borders. Four of the most effective plant-derived right border alternatives were found to be associated with intron-exon junctions. Additional elements were embedded within introns, exons, untranslated trailers, and intergenic DNA. Based on the identification of a single right border alternative in Arabidopsis and three in rice (Oryza sativa), the occurrence of this motif was estimated at a frequency of at least 0.8×10−8. Modification of plasmid DNA sequences flanking the alternative borders demonstrated that both upstream and downstream sequences play an important role in initiating DNA transfer. Optimal DNA transfer required the elements to be preceded by pyrimidine residues interspaced by AC-rich trinucleotides. Alteration of this organization lowered transformation frequencies by 46% to 93%. Despite their weaker resemblance with left borders, right border alternatives also functioned effectively in terminating DNA transfer, if both associated with an upstream A[C/T]T[C/G]A[A/T]T[G/T][C/T][G/T][C/G]A[C/T][C/T][A/T] domain and tightly linked cytosine clusters at their junctions with downstream DNA. New insights in border region requirements were used to construct an all-native alfalfa (Medicago sativa) transfer DNA vector that can be used for the production of intragenic plants.
Nursing Theory and Practice: Connecting the Dots

The authors propose connecting the dots among theory, practice, and research by adopting an expanded conceptual-theoretical-empirical structure of nursing knowledge and matrix process to guide the placement of nursing knowledge in a contextual whole. An overview of the theoretical journey of nursing knowledge development is contrasted with the journey from practice resulting in a theory-practice disconnect. Both approaches are united to present an integrated view of the dimensions of the knowledge development of nursing as a professional discipline.