cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pineal hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase: Mechanism, and inhibition by scotophobin A

We had shown that the behaviorally active peptide, scotophobin A, a synthetic analogue of native scotophobin, acted to increase dark avoidance in goldfish by inhibiting pineal hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT), the enzyme which converts N-acetylserotonin (NAS) to melatonin (MEL). Here we determine the reaction sequence of bovine pineal HIOMT and the mechanism whereby scotophobin A inhibits this enzyme. Initial rate studies in which the substrates NAS and the methyl donor, S-adenosylmethionine SAM), were independently varied indicated the enzyme reacted by a sequential mechanism. With the product, S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), included in the reaction mixtures, data were obtained consistent with the following order of substrate addition and product discharge: (see text). The turnover number was 5.7 moles melatonin formed/mole HIOMT/min. The substrate KMs were 4.2 x 10(-4) M for NAS and 4.9 x 10(-5) M for SAM. Further studies showed that scotophobin A is an inhibitor (KI = 7 x 10(-7) M) competitive with NAS, indicating that this peptide combines with the enzyme-SAM complex. The structural similarity of the tyrosinamide end of scotophobin A to NAS and several other HIOMT inhibitors, including two antischizophrenic drugs, is consistent with these observations.
Learning outcomes from a biomedical research course for second year osteopathic medical students

A ubiquitous dilemma in medical education continues to be whether and how to integrate research competencies into the predoctoral curriculum. Understanding research concepts is imbedded in the six core competencies for physicians, but predoctoral medical education typically does not explicitly include research education. In an effort to quickly report academic research findings to the field, this is the second in a series of articles reporting the outcomes of a research education initiative at one college of osteopathic medicine. The first article described the competency model and reported baseline performance in applied understanding of targeted research concepts. This second article reports on the learning outcomes from the inaugural year of a course in basic biomedical research concepts. This course consisted of 24 total hours of classroom lectures augmented with web-based materials using Blackboard Vista, faculty moderated student presentations of research articles, and quizzes. To measure changes in applied understanding of targeted research concepts in the inaugural year of the course, we administered a pretest and a posttest to second year students who took the course and to first year students who took an informatics course in the same academic year. We analyzed 154 matched pretests and posttests representing 56% of the 273 first and second year students. On average, the first year (53) and second year students (101) did not differ in their mean pretest scores. At posttest the second year students showed significant improvement in their applied understanding of the concepts, whereas the first year students' mean posttest score was lower than their mean pretest score. This biomedical research course appears to have increased the second year students' applied understanding of the targeted biomedical research concepts. This assessment of learning outcomes has facilitated the quality improvement process for the course, and improved our understanding of how to measure the benefits of research education for medical students. Some of the course content and methods, and the outcome measures may need to be approached differently in the future to more effectively lay the foundation for osteopathic medical students to utilize these concepts in the clinical setting.
Lipopolysaccharide and d-galactosamine-induced hepatic injury is mediated by TNF-α and not by Fas ligand

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and Fas ligand (FasL) are trimeric proteins that induce apoptosis through similar caspase-dependent pathways. Hepatocytes are particularly sensitive to inflammation-induced programmed cell death, although the contribution of TNF-alpha and/or FasL to this injury response is still unclear. Here, we report that D-galactosamine and lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury in C57BL/6 mice is associated with increased hepatic expression of both TNF-alpha and FasL mRNA. Pretreatment of mice with a TNF-binding protein improved survival, reduced plasma aspartate aminotransferase concentrations, and attenuated the apoptotic liver injury, as determined histologically and by in situ 3' OH end labeling of fragmented nuclear DNA. In contrast, pretreatment of mice with a murine-soluble Fas fusion protein (Fasfp) had only minimal effect on survival, and apoptotic liver injury was either unaffected or exacerbated depending on the dose of Fasfp employed. Similarly, mice with a spontaneous mutation in FasL (B6Smn.C3H-Fasl(gld) derived from C57BL/6) were equally sensitive to D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide-induced shock. We conclude that the shock and apoptotic liver injury after D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide treatment are due primarily to TNF-alpha release, whereas increased FasL expression appears to contribute little to the mortality and hepatic injury.
The torsion of a semi-infinite elastic solid by an elliptical stamp

The problem of determining, within the limits of the classical theory of elasticity, the displacements and stresses in the interior of a semi-infinite solid ( z ≧ 0) when a part of the boundary surface ( z = 0) is forced to rotate through a given angle ω about an axis which is normal to the undeformed plane surface of the solid, has been discussed by several authors [ 7, 8, 9, 1, 11, and others]. All of this work is concerned with rotating a circular area of the boundary surface and the field equation to be solved is, essentially, J. H. Mitchell's equation for the torsion of bars of varying circular cross-sections.
Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy Increases the Incidence of Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia

Introduction: Data regarding Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) associated ventricular arrhythmias (VA) is currently limited to small series. Little is known about the prevalence, predictors and clinical outcomes of VA in LVAD recipients. Hypothesis: The presence and the frequency of pre-operative VA are modified by LVAD therapy. Methods: We reviewed the pre and post-LVAD course of the last 100 consecutive adult patients to receive a Heartmate LVAD at our institution. All VA sustained for at least 30 seconds or requiring defibrillation for termination were analyzed. Results: Our population was predominately male (84%), had ischemic cardiomyopathy (64%), an average age of 52 and a mean LVEF of 20% / 910%. Forty-three patients were chronically on amiodarone pre-operatively. Thirty-nine patients had at least one VA prior to LVAD, with Monomorphic VT (MVT) documented in 9 and VF or Polymorphic VT (VF/PVT) in 23. Thirty-five patients had at least one VA after LVAD, with MVT documented in 23 and VF/PVT in 19. The prevalence of MVT increased by 150% postoperatively (P .004), while the prevalence of VF/ PVT did not significantly change. After LVAD, new onset MVT was 4.5 times more likely than elimination of previously present MVT (p .002), while the impact of LVAD on incidence of VF/PVT was not significant. This trend persisted among all subgroups. Post LVAD, 70% of patients with VA required multiple anti-arrhythmic agents to control their arrhythmia. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, preoperative VA (O.R. 9.8, p .014), post-operative infection (O.R. 5.0, p .008) and post-operative electrolyte abnormality (O.R. 5.2, p .004) were independent predictors of post LVAD VA. The presence of VA conferred a 70% increased risk of death (p .11). Conclusion: Ventricular arrhythmia is common after LVAD placement, and MVT is the most common post-operative VA. Although the presence of pre-operative VA is a strong independent predictor of all post-operative VA, LVAD therapy itself may promote Monomorphic VT.
Multicenter prospective, randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled study of Rheopheresis to treat nonexudative age-related macular degeneration: interim analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Rheopheresis blood filtration to treat intermediate- to late-stage preangiogenic age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with soft drusen. DESIGN: Multicenter, prospective, randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled clinical trial. PARTICIPANTS: First 43 randomized patients (28 Rheopheresis and 15 placebo-control patients) with available baseline and 3-month postbaseline best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurements and intermediate- to late-stage preangiogenic AMD with multiple large soft drusen and elevated serum levels of targeted macromolecules. INTERVENTION: Patients were randomly assigned to receive eight Rheopheresis or eight placebo procedures over 10 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: ETDRS BCVA measurements at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postbaseline. RESULTS: In primary eyes, the mean LogMAR line difference between Rheopheresis and placebo-control eyes was 1.6 lines at 12 months postbaseline; the difference was significant throughout the first posttreatment year (P = .0011, repeated measures analysis). Thirteen percent of Rheopheresis compared with 0% of placebo-control eyes had a > or = 3-line improvement in BCVA at 12 months postbaseline. Four percent of Rheopheresis compared with 18% of placebo-control eyes had a > or = 3-line loss in BCVA. The subgroup of patients whose primary eyes had baseline BCVA worse than 20/40 demonstrated a mean LogMAR difference between Rheopheresis and placebo-control eyes equaling 3.0 lines at 12 months postbaseline; the difference was significant throughout the first posttreatment year (P = .0014, repeated measures analysis). Sixteen percent of Rheopheresis compared with 0% of the placebo-control eyes had a > or = 3-line improvement in BCVA at 12 months postbaseline. Five percent of Rheopheresis compared with 29% of placebo-control eyes had a > or = 3-line loss in BCVA. Fifty-eight percent of Rheopheresis eyes improved to 20/40 or better, compared with 14% of placebo-control eyes. No serious treatment-related adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Rheopheresis demonstrated statistically significant and clinically relevant effects on BCVA when compared with placebo controls for the 12-month study interval. Untreated patients with BCVA worse than 20/40 with intermediate- to late-stage preangiogenic AMD, soft drusen, and elevated blood factors were at risk for substantial visual loss. A sample size larger than 43 patients is important to provide a basis for widespread adoption of novel therapeutic options for AMD such as Rheopheresis. Therefore, enrollment to 150 patients is continuing.
Sex Roles, Education, and Development in Africa

This paper provides a general discussion of the effects of colonial rule on patterns of indigenous African education, division of labor, and social stratification. It explores changing patterns of sex roles and occupational structures giving special attention to the changing position of women.
Defining socially assistive robotics

This paper defines the research area of socially assistive robotics, focusing on assisting people through social interaction. While much attention has been paid to robots that provide assistance to people through physical contact (which we call contact assistive robotics), and to robots that entertain through social interaction (social interactive robotics), so far there is no clear definition of socially assistive robotics. We summarize active social assistive research projects and classify them by target populations, application domains, and interaction methods. While distinguishing these from socially interactive robotics endeavors, we discuss challenges and opportunities that are specific to the growing field of socially assistive robotics.
Nonlinear vibrations in the apex of guinea-pig cochlea

Abstract The apical turn of a living guinea-pig cochlea was opened gently and fluid coupled to the objective lens of a confocal microscope-interferometer. The reticular lamina was viewed through the intact Reissner’s membrane. Mechanical vibrations were measured at identified cellular locations, in response to tones applied with an acoustic transducer coupled to the ear canal. Time waveforms were measured at an outer and middle Hensen’s cell over a wide intensity and frequency range. The time waveforms were distorted and the magnitude and number of harmonics in the FFTs of waveforms were high, indicating a strong nonlinearity. However, the amplitude of the fundamental component of the response increased nearly linearly with sound pressure. This paper examines the origin and the role of the nonlinear components in the cochlear function.
Should Patients with High-Risk Soft Tissue Sarcoma Receive Adjuvant Chemotherapy?

Soft tissue sarcoma is a malignant connective tissue tumor that may arise anywhere in the body and from diverse mesenchymal elements. Its incidence is approximately 30 per million persons. The majority of patients with soft tissue sarcoma present with potentially life-threatening disease, and complete resection to obtain specimen margins free of tumor and radiation offer the best chance for local disease control. The risk of relapse and death from disease rises with increasing tumor stage, grade, and size. Adjuvant chemotherapy has been studied as a means to decrease the risk for disease recurrence in patients with localized soft tissue sarcoma at diagnosis, but the majority of trials reported on have been hampered by patient heterogeneity, low patient accrual, and short follow-up. Meta-analysis and reviews of institutional large series, in efforts to overcome some of the limitations, suggest that doxorubicin with ifosfamide reduces the risk for sarcoma recurrence and death in selected patients with high-grade, large, and chemotherapy-sensitive sarcoma subtypes to a clinically meaningful degree. In multiple analyses, patients with high-risk soft tissue sarcoma treated with chemotherapy have a >10% absolute lower risk for disease recurrence and longer disease-specific survival than patients treated without chemotherapy. In the absence of conclusive results from an adequately powered, randomized, controlled clinical trial, the available data support the use of chemotherapy in the management of high-risk, localized, soft tissue sarcoma.
Purification and Partial Characterization of a Dehydrin Involved in Chilling Tolerance during Seedling Emergence of Cowpea

Dehydrins are a family of proteins (LEA [late-embryogenesis abundant] D11) commonly induced by environmental stresses associated with low temperature or dehydration and during seed maturation drying. Our previous genetic studies suggested an association of an approximately 35-kD protein (by immunological evidence a dehydrin) with chilling tolerance during emergence of seedlings of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) line 1393-2-11. In the present study we found that the accumulation of this protein in developing cowpea seeds is coordinated with the start of the dehydration phase of embryo development. We purified this protein from dry seeds of cowpea line 1393-2-11 by using the characteristic high-temperature solubility of dehydrins as an initial enrichment step, which was followed by three chromatography steps involving cation exchange, hydrophobic interaction, and anion exchange. Various characteristics of this protein confirmed that indeed it is a dehydrin, including total amino acid composition, partial amino acid sequencing, and the adoption of α-helical structure in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. The propensity of dehydrins to adopt α-helical structure in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate, together with the apparent polypeptide adhesion property of this cowpea dehydrin, suggests a role in stabilizing other proteins or membranes. Taken together, the genetic, physiological, and physicochemical data are at this stage consistent with a cause-and-effect relationship between the presence in mature seeds of the approximately 35-kD dehydrin, which is the product of a single member of a multigene family, and an increment of chilling tolerance during emergence of cowpea seedlings.
Availability and approximation of signals in adaptive time delay estimation

A deterministic averaging method is used to study an adaptive time delay estimation algorithm. In practice, some signals needed in the ideal form of the algorithm are not available. The authors discuss different ways of approximating these signals and evaluate the performance of the corresponding algorithm via averaging analysis. Results of theoretical analysis and computer simulation are presented. >
Keynote Speech Abstracts; 1. Nanoscience and Nanotechnology: Status, Potential and Roadmap

In recent years, nanoscience and nanotechnology have attracted much attention and have posed much significant potential in many areas of societal interest. For instance, opportunities are presented for help solving global energy needs with environmentally clean solutions, increasing the quality of life through improved medicine and health care, improving the productivity of agriculture industry, and providing the benefits of information technology everywhere. Recent development of nanomaterials has enabled ever-clean cloths and nanobiosensor devices. NEMS in concert with nanoelectronics would help develop intelligent nanorobots for unique applications. In Feynman's words, "There is a plenty of room at the bottom." Although semiconductor industry calls its sub-100nm technology as nanotechnology, the room is much bigger than that of nanoelectronics. In this talk we will review the status along with potentials in various fields. Further we will discuss what can bring the realization of nanotechnology industry with some degree of acceleration in the world that becomes flatter and promotes international collaborations and competition.
An error model for sensor simulation GPS and differential GPS

This paper describes a software package that models various Global Positioning System (GPS) and differential GPS receiver configurations. The model produces position errors in a locally-level coordinate system. The errors are statistically based on the errors associated with pseudorange measurements. An orbital model of the GPS satellites simulates the effects of satellite geometry on the position errors. The error model is used in the Real-Time Simulator at the NASA-Langley Research Center. >
General Cognitive Ability and the Psychological Refractory Period Individual Differences in the Mind’s Bottleneck

Identifying the precise locus of general cognitive ability (g) in the flow of information between perception and action is an important goal of differential psychology. To localize the negative correlation between g and reaction time to a specific processing stage, we administered a speeded number-comparison task to two groups differing in average g. The participants had to respond to two stimuli in each trial, which produced the well-known slowing of the second reaction time known as the psychological refractory period. The difference in the second reaction time favoring the high-g group doubled as the stimulus onsets became very close together. This finding affirms that the faster reaction times of higher-g individuals reflect an advantage exclusively in the serial bottleneck of central processing and not in the parallel peripheral stages.
Comparative responses of two dominant Antarctic phytoplankton taxa to interactions between ocean acidification, warming, irradiance, and iron availability

We investigated the responses of the ecologically dominant Antarctic phytoplankton species Phaeocystis antarctica (a prymnesiophyte) and Fragilariopsis cylindrus (a diatom) to a clustered matrix of three global change variables (CO2, mixed-layer depth, and temperature) under both iron (Fe)-replete and Fe-limited conditions based roughly on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) A2 scenario: (1) Current conditions, 39 Pa (380 ppmv) CO2, 50 µmol photons m−2 s−1 light, and 2°C; (2) Year 2060, 61 Pa (600 ppmv) CO2, 100 µmol photons m−2 s−1 light, and 4°C; (3) Year 2100, 81 Pa (800 ppmv) CO2, 150 µmol photons m−2 s−1 light, and 6°C. The combined interactive effects of these global change variables and changing Fe availability on growth, primary production, and cell morphology are species specific. A competition experiment suggested that future conditions could lead to a shift away from P. antarctica and toward diatoms such as F. cylindrus. Along with decreases in diatom cell size and shifts from prymnesiophyte colonies to single cells under the future scenario, this could potentially lead to decreased carbon export to the deep ocean. Fe : C uptake ratios of both species increased under future conditions, suggesting phytoplankton of the Southern Ocean will increase their Fe requirements relative to carbon fixation. The interactive effects of Fe, light, CO2, and temperature on Antarctic phytoplankton need to be considered when predicting the future responses of biology and biogeochemistry in this region.
Growth of Boron Nanowires by Chemical Vapor Deposition

Motivated by the extensive research on carbon nanotubes (CNTs), boron and its related nano-structures have attracted increasing interests for potential applications in nanodevices and nanotechnologies due to their extraordinary properties. B-related nanostructures are successfully grown on various substrates in a CVD process. The boron nanowires have diameters around 50-200 nanometers and lengths up to a few microns. The gas chemistry is monitored by the in-situ mass-spectroscopy, which helps to identify reactive species in the process. Modified vapor-solid growths as well as VLS growth mechanisms are proposed for the growth of these nanostructures. The role of the catalysts in the synthesis is also discussed.
Functions of the Index in Narrative: An Outline

Embracing a nearly infinite range of structural possibilities within the realm of fictional narrative, the novel is probably the most heterogeneous verbal art form available to the creative writer. Yet the challenge to the writer remains uniform: to involve and intrigue the reader, and thereby assure his continued contemplation of the work. In his “Notes on the Novel,” Ortego y Gasset concludes that art makes possible the “enjoyment of contemplation” (1968:82–83). How this might be achieved defines in large measure the challenge to the maker of verbal art. Similarly, but from the opposite perspective, in regarding the finished product the literary critic attempts to gauge the nature and depth of the achievement—itself a challenging task, since the counterpart activity to literary creation—reading—is largely a subjective, even private matter, which does not easily lend itself to the identification of universals.
Comment on the Japan Fair Trade Commission's Draft Partial Amendment to the Guidelines for the Use of Intellectual Property Under the Antimonopoly Act

This comment is submitted in response to the Japan Fair Trade Commission’s (JFTC’s) request for public comments on the Draft Partial Amendment to the Guidelines for the Use of Intellectual Property under the Antimonopoly Act (Draft Amendment). The Draft Amendment specifies that seeking injunctive relief to enforce a standard essential patent (SEP) encumbered by a commitment to license on fair, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory (FRAND) terms against a party that is willing to take a license on FRAND terms “may” constitute an unlawful exclusion of business activities in violation of Article 3 of Japan’s Antimonopoly Act (AMA) (Draft Amendment Part 3(1)(e)) or an unfair trade practice in violation of Article 19 of the AMA (Draft Amendment Part 4(2)(iv)). The Draft Amendment is premised upon the assumption that seeking injunctive relief “generally makes it difficult to research & develop ... products adopting the standards,” which in turn deters widespread adoption of standards. This assumption lacks empirical support. Further, as we explain, ordinary contract law makes an AMA sanction unnecessary to deter any instances of anticompetitive patent holdup that might arise; indeed, an AMA sanction is likely to reduce incentives to innovate and deter participation in standard setting, thereby depriving consumers of the substantial procompetitive benefits of standardized technologies. For these reasons, we respectfully recommend that Parts 3(1)(e) and 4(2)(iv) be deleted in their entirety. Should the JFTC decide to retain these provisions, however, they should at the very least be amended to limit liability to situations when there is proof that a FRAND-encumbered SEP holder has engaged in patent “holdup,” i.e., that the patent holder used the threat of injunctive relief to demand supra-competitive royalties.
Oral contraceptives: safety factors in prolonged use of progestin-estrogen combinations. 2.

Some of the changes induced by long-term use of oral contraceptive (OC) preparations are reviewed. It is likely that OCs exert their contraceptive effect by suppressing the midcycle surge of luteinizing hormone; ovarian activity thereby becomes quiescent. There is no firm evidence that OCs alter thyroid or adrenal function. There is also no direct evidence that OCs cause carcinoma of the breast endometrium or cervix. OCs are contraindicated for: 1) existing or suspected malignancy of the breast or reproductive tract 2) young patients with incomplete epiphyseal closure 3) hepatic dysfunction 4) the immediate postpartum period and 5) a history of thrombophlebitis or pulmonary embolism.
A Positive Prospective Trial of Antibiotic Therapy in Advanced Stage, Non-Bulky Indolent Lymphoma

Background We have prospectively studied a three month course of clarithromycin (substituted by Prevpac®, lansoprazole/ amoxicillin/ clarithromycin, in the first two wks when stool H pylori+) for non-bulky, advanced stage indolent lymphoma. These patients are often candidates for expectant monitoring and it is during this period that a window of opportunity may exist to identify and treat associated infections. Methods All previously untreated patients with a new diagnosis of indolent lymphoma (FL and non-FL) meeting GELF criteria were treated with 12 weeks of clarithromycin. There were 32 evaluable patients, 4 of whom had stool H pylori. Results At one month post-antibiotic therapy, we have observed lymphoma responses in 7 of 32 patients (21.9%). Two additional patients had objective response during followup (28.1% overall response). The median treatment free survival for antibiotic responders is 69.9 months and for non-responders, 30.6 months (p = 0.019). Conclusion Three response patterns have been noted, perhaps suggestive of an immune-mediated response -- prompt PET negative; flair with delayed PET negative response; and gradual continuous improvement. This prospective study appears promising, may be a step toward developing a lymphoma prevention strategy by reducing "antigen drive," and deserves further clinical/biological study. http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00461084.
Analysis of Real-Time Hydrogenation data from P and N-Type Silicon

Hydrogenation of metal/thin oxide/p-type silicon and metal/n-type silicon diodes has been studied using high frequency capacitance profiling. In situ observations of acceptor and donor passivation were made while H ions were implanted through thin gate metallizations. Direct measurement of ion transits at a variety of electric fields establish that a unique mobility can be assigned to positive H ions, and modeling of low and high field data in both n and p-type samples is consistent with the notion that the positive charge state is occupied ~1/10 of the time. The time dependence of hydrogen penetration for both p and n-type diodes indicates that hydrogen is, in addition to being trapped at unpassivated shallow donors or acceptors, becoming immobilized at other sites in silicon. The density of these secondary trapping sites correlates well with the shallow dopant population suggesting that additional hydrogen atoms may become trapped near already-passivated dopant atoms.
Numerical design of shape memory polymer composites with temperature-responsive SMA fillers

Abstract Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are stimuli responsive materials that can recover large deformations when heated above their glass transition temperatures. However, at elevated temperatures, SMPs exhibit low modulus and strength and thus, are not suitable for applications where high stiffness or recovery stress is required. In this study, shape memory polymer composites are designed numerically by inserting shape memory alloy (SMA) particles into SMP matrices. The SMP matrix is modeled with Ogden strain energy function and the SMA filler is modeled with the Lagoudas' model. These two material models are linked together through a finite element program to simulate the responses of SMA-SMP composites. The SMA-SMP composites are designed with selected filler contents (0–50 wt%) and their mechanical responses are simulated at temperatures from 18 °C to 55 °C. Overall, the mechanical properties of SMA increase as temperature increases, which are complementary to those of SMP. Compared to conventional fillers, SMA is more effective in enhancing the matrix material due to its unique temperature responsive microstructure and mechanical properties.
Altered cerebrospinal fluid proteins in Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome patients

Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive, multiple malformation syndrome with neurocognitive impairment. SLOS arises from mutations in the 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase gene which results in impaired enzymatic conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol to cholesterol. In the current work, we sought to measure proteins that were altered in the cerebrospinal fluid from SLOS patients compared to pediatric controls. Using a multi-analyte antibody-based assay, we found that 12 proteins are altered in SLOS patients. Validation studies were carried out and the findings from this study suggest alterations in extracellular matrix remodeling and further evidence of oxidative stress within the disease pathophysiology. The results of this study will be used to explore biological pathways altered in SLOS and identifies a set of CSF proteins that can be evaluated as biomarkers in future therapeutic trials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tunable filter Raman spectroscopy of purified semiconducting and metallic carbon nanotubes

Tunable filter Raman spectroscopy is used to efficiently produce Raman excitation maps of unpurified and type-purified single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Maps with fine excitation resolution (1 nm) are created over a wide wavelength range (727 to 980 nm), extending from metallic to semiconducting resonances. At a given wavelength, the wide bandwidth (>3,000 cm–1) allows the comparison of the G band with the radial breathing mode (RBM), and shows the 2D band and other less prominent bands. Materials examined included unsorted powders, aqueous sorted semiconductors, aqueous sorted metals, and polyfluorene sorted semiconductors in toluene. The Raman excitation profiles of the G band are broad, relative to the RBM bands. The maps offer evidence of minority species contamination, except in the case of the polyfluorene sorted semiconductors. Tunable Raman spectroscopy data help validate the simpler fixed wavelength Raman spectroscopy approaches to purity assessment.
Switching power supplies

Power supplies for modern electronic systems should be small, lightweight, reliable, and efficient. Linear power regulators, whose principle of operation is based on a voltage or current divider, are inefficient. They are limited to output voltages smaller than the input voltage. Also, their power density is low because they require low-frequency (50 or 60 Hz) line transformers and filters. Linear regulators can, however, provide a very high-quality output voltage. Their main area of application is at low power levels as low dropout voltage regulators. Semiconductor components in linear regulators operate in their active (linear) modes. At higher power levels, switching regulators are used. Switching regulators use power electronic semiconductor switches in on and off states. Since there is a small power loss in those states (low voltage across a switch in the on state, zero current through a switch in the off state), switching regulators can achieve high-energy conversion efficiencies. Modern power electronic switches can operate at high frequencies. The higher the operating frequency, the smaller and lighter the transformers, filter inductors, and capacitors. In addition, dynamic characteristics of converters improve with increasing operating frequencies. The bandwidth of a control loop is usually determined by the corner frequency of the output filter. Therefore, high operating frequencies allow for achieving a fast dynamic response to rapid changes in the load current and/or the input voltage.
Assessment, Consequence, and Clinical Implication of Asymmetry

Abstract The etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) is complex, unpredictable, and unsystematic nerve demyelination, axonal deterioration, and neuroaxonal loss. Consequently, MS impairs the ability to transmit neurological signals throughout one's nervous system. The implications of nerve transmission disturbances include, but are not limited to, a multitude of functional symptoms such as abnormal gait, deficient balance, muscle weakness, spasticity, foot drop, and fatigue. Furthermore, the pathophysiology of MS can generate asymmetrical effects where one side of the body has more severe functional impairments. It follows that these bilateral differences have significant clinical importance. Nevertheless, bilateral asymmetry has yet to be comprehensively quantified. Additionally, the lack of knowledge about the impact asymmetry has on activities of daily living, quality of life, and exercise tolerance creates challenges for the prescription and implementation of rehabilitation.
The Diagnosis and Management of Airway Complications Following Lung Transplantation

Airway complications following lung transplantation result in considerable morbidity and are associated with a mortality of 2% to 4%. The incidence of lethal and nonlethal airway complications has decreased since the early experiences with double- and single-lung transplantation. The most common risk factor associated with post-lung transplantation airway complications is anastomotic ischemia. Airway complications include the development of exophytic granulation tissue, bronchial stenosis, bronchomalacia, airway fistula, endobronchial infection, and anastomotic dehiscence. The broadening array of bronchoscopic therapies has enhanced treatment options for lung transplant recipients with airway complications. This article reviews the risk factors, clinical manifestations, and treatments of airway complications following lung transplantation and provides our expert opinion when evidence is lacking.
Comparison of organochlorine pesticide levels in soil and groundwater of Agra, India.

One seventy five soil and one twenty six groundwater samples collected from agricultural, garden, nursery, and waste disposal sites were analyzed for organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) to investigate their occurrence, severity and sources, and to compare their levels in soil and groundwater. Soil and groundwater samples were collected from the middle horizon 15-30 cm and tube wells respectively. OCPs determined and comparised BHC, DDT, endosulfan, aldrin, dieldrin & heptachlor and chlordane. Depending on physical and chemical characteristics of OCPs different behaviors were found. In soil DDT had higher concentrations than that of BHC but in groundwater BHC exceeded DDT. In the present case soil is poor in organic matter so DDT metabolites being more stable than BHC could leach down to lower horizons richer in class and aquifers while more soluble BHC and DDT. Biodegradable BHC remained in the upper horizons, retained by organic matter. Aldrin levels were much higher than that of dieldrin both in soil and groundwater samples. Heptachlor was found at only few locations and chlordane was not detected. Further characterization of OCPs in soils and their aged signatures would be useful as to predict their levels on a regimal scale.
90 Loaded handgun carrying among adults in the united states: results of a national survey

Statement of Purpose Little is known about why, how frequently, or in what manner US adults carry loaded handguns. We sought to describe these characteristics of firearm carrying, and examine to what extent carrying behaviour is related to state laws regulating concealed carry permits (Unrestricted, Shall-Issue/No-Discretion; Shall-Issue/Limited-Discretion, May-Issue). Approach We conducted a probability-based, nationally-representative, online survey of US adults aged â‰¥18 years in 2015. Handgun owners were asked if they had carried a loaded handgun in the past 30 days, the number of days they had carried, whether they had carried openly or concealed, and their primary reason for carrying. Results 24% (95% CI: 21%–26%) of the 38 million US handgun owners carried a loaded handgun in the past 30 days; among those, 35% (95% CI: 29%–41%) did so every day. Most carried primarily for protection (81%; 95% CI: 76%–86%) and had a concealed carry permit (79%; 95% CI: 73%–84%). Of those who carried, two-thirds always carried concealed (66%; 95% CI: 60%–72%) and 11% (95% CI: 7%–15%) always carried openly. The proportion of those who carried concealed was 21% (95% CI: 12%–35%) in Unrestricted, 25% (95% CI: 21%–29%) in Shall-Issue/No-Discretion, 20% (95% CI: 16%–24%) in Shall-Issue/Limited-Discretion, and 9% (95% CI: 6%–15%) in May-Issue states. Conclusion 1 in 4 adult handgun owners in the US carry a loaded handgun and most do so for personal protection. Of those, about 1 in 3 carry every day. Proportionally fewer handgun owners carried concealed loaded handguns at any time in the past month if they lived in states with laws that allow law enforcement to exercise notable discretion in issuing carrying permits. Significance Findings provide empiric evidence for the frequent occurrence of loaded handgun carrying among adult handgun owners, especially in states with less stringent firearm carrying statues.
Perioperative Management of Patients with Diabetes

Hyperglycemia has long been recognized to have detrimental effects on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing surgery. The manifestations of uncontrolled diabetes are manifold and can include risk of hyperglycemic crises, postoperative infection, poor wound healing, and increased mortality. There is substantial literature supporting the role of diligent glucose control in the prevention of adverse surgical outcomes, but considerable debate remains as to the optimal glucose targets. Hence, most organizations advocate the avoidance of hypoglycemia while striving for adequate glucose control in the perioperative period. These objectives can be accomplished with careful preoperative evaluation, clear patient instructions the day of surgery, frequent blood glucose monitoring during the perioperative period, and use of effective strategies for insulin initiation and titration. This article highlights the major issues concerning patients with diabetes undergoing surgery and reviews the management recommendations put forth by general consensus guidelines and expert opinion.
Personal Income and Substance Use among Emerging Adults in the United States

Background Taxation and other policy measures have been implemented across the United States to curb the accessibility of substance use, especially among youth. While the inverse relationship between price and youth consumption is well known, available research on youth earned income and substance use is sparser, particularly among emerging adults. Objectives We examined the association between emerging adult past-year personal income and 30-day substance use. Methods We analyzed data from Wave 5 (n = 2,202) of the NEXT Generation Health Study, an annual survey study administered to a nationally representative sample of emerging adults in the U.S. Wave 5 (mean age = 20.28 years, SE = 0.02 years) was administered during the 2013-2014 academic year. After grouping participants into five levels of self-reported, pre-tax personal income, we used binomial logistic regression to examine the association between personal income and cigarette smoking, marijuana use, alcohol use, and heavy episodic drinking (HED). Results In unadjusted models, those at certain levels of higher past-year income were more likely to smoke cigarettes, consume alcohol, or engage in HED at least once in the past 30 days. Several associations remained significant after controlling for covariates. Most associations were no longer significant after including perceived peer norms as additional covariates. Personal income was not associated with 30-day marijuana use in unadjusted or adjusted models. Conclusions/Importance: Higher earned income may provide emerging adults greater economic access to cigarettes and alcohol, but the association might be partly attenuated by social factors, particularly perceived peer norms.
Orbital quantum magnetism in spin dynamics of strongly interacting magnetic lanthanide atoms

Laser-cooled lanthanide atoms are ideal candidates with which to study strong and unconventional quantum magnetism with exotic phases. Here, we use state-of-the-art closed-coupling simulations to model quantum magnetism for pairs of ultracold spin-6 erbium lanthanide atoms placed in a deep optical lattice. In contrast to the widely used single-channel Hubbard model description of atoms and molecules in an optical lattice, we focus on the single-site multichannel spin evolution due to spin-dependent contact, anisotropic van der Waals, and dipolar forces. This has allowed us to identify the leading mechanism, orbital anisotropy, that governs molecular spin dynamics among erbium atoms. The large magnetic moment and combined orbital angular momentum of the 4f -shell electrons are responsible for these strong anisotropic interactions and unconventional quantum magnetism. Multichannel simulations of magnetic Cr atoms under similar trapping conditions show that their spin evolution is controlled by spin-dependent contact interactions that are distinct in nature from the orbital anisotropy in Er. The role of an external magnetic field and the aspect ratio of the lattice site on spin dynamics is also investigated.
The QBKG system: generating explanations from a non-discrete knowledge representation

The QBKG system produces critical analyses of possible moves for a wide variety of backgammon positions, using a hierarchically structurcd. non-discrete form of knowledge representation. This report compares discrete and continuous representations and reasoning systems, addressing issues of competence, robustness, and explainability. The QBKG system is described and demonstrated.
Pension Reform in the Aftermath of Enron: Congress' Failure to Deliver the Promise of Secure Retirement 401(K) Plan Participants.

With the fall of numerous Fortune 500 companies, including Enron and WorldCom, 2002 will long be remembered as the year where corporate executives placed their own personal wealth before shareholders’ and employees’ well-being. In response to corporate greed and misdeed, 2002 will also be remembered as the year in which Congress enacted the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to address the accounting and corporate responsibility issues raised by the Enron debacle, the SEC adopted new regulations with additional corporate disclosure and audit committee requirements, and the NYSE’s and the NASDAQ’s corporate governance task forces adopted new listing standards and codes of corporate conduct. What 2002 will not be remembered as is the year of meaningful pension reform. In the wake of billions of dollars in losses attributable to 401(k) plan company stock holdings, Congress failed to enact one single pension reform bill that protects 401(k) plan participants from excessive investment in company stock. Congress stressed corporate accountability and oversight in enacting the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, but rejected those same principles in the area of pension reform. This article examines the historical role of company stock ownership in tax-qualified retirement plans and how Congress is distorting that role to justify its failure to enact meaningful pension reform that restricts 401(k) plan investment in company stock. Specifically, the article addresses H.R. 3762, the Republican-backed House Bill that has arisen like a phoenix out of the ashes of more than 20 pension reform bills introduced by the 107th Congress. The article examines how the House Bill fails to deliver ERISA’s promise of a secure retirement by rejecting overall limitations on 401(k) plan investment in company stock, by failing to mandate the appointment of an independent plan fiduciary where company stock is offered as an investment alternative, and by failing to mandate that employers provide participants with investment advice as a condition of fiduciary liability relief.
Creation and Use of an Electronic Health Record Reporting Database to Improve a Laboratory Test Utilization Program

Objectives Laboratory-based utilization management programs typically rely primarily on data derived from the laboratory information system to analyze testing volumes for trends and utilization concerns. We wished to examine the ability of an electronic health record (EHR) laboratory orders database to improve a laboratory utilization program. Methods We obtained a daily file from our EHR containing data related to laboratory test ordering. We then used an automated process to import this file into a database to facilitate self-service queries and analysis. Results The EHR laboratory orders database has proven to be an important addition to our utilization management program. We provide three representative examples of how the EHR laboratory orders database has been used to address common utilization issues. We demonstrate that analysis of EHR laboratory orders data has been able to provide unique insights that cannot be obtained by review of laboratory information system data alone. Further, we provide recommendations on key EHR data fields of importance to laboratory utilization efforts. Conclusion We demonstrate that an EHR laboratory orders database may be a useful tool in the monitoring and optimization of laboratory testing. We recommend that health care systems develop and maintain a database of EHR laboratory orders data and integrate this data with their laboratory utilization programs.