cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of 9-ene-tetrahydrocannabinol on expression of β-type transforming growth factors, insulin-like growth factor-I and c-myc genes in the mouse uterus

Abstract Effects of cannabinoid on expression of β-type transforming growth factors (TGF-β1, -β2 and -β3), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and c- myc genes in the uteri of adult ovariectomized mice were examined using Northern blot hybridization. Mice were exposed to 9-ene-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) alone or in combination with an injection of estradiol-17β (E 2 ) and/or progesterone (P 4 ), and uteri were analyzed at various times thereafter. TGF-β isoform messenger RNAs (mRNAs) persisted in ovariectomized uteri and their levels were not altered after THC treatment, whereas an injection of E 2 caused a modest increase in TGF-β1 and -β3 mRNA levels at 24 h. Imposition of THC treatment advanced the stimulatory effects of E 2 by changing the timing for the peak of TGF-β3 mRNA levels to 12 h. In comparison, E 2 treatment substantially elevated the levels of TGF-β2 mRNA at 6 h, and THC potentiated this E 2 response without affecting the timing for the response. Imposition of P 4 treatment did not antagonize any of these responses. P 4 treatment alone or with THC had insignificant effects on mRNA levels for these TGF-β isoforms. Uterine levels of IGF-I and c- myc mRNAs were low in ovariectomized mice and THC did not alter these mRNA levels. In contrast, E 2 treatment induced a rapid, but transient, increase in IGF-I and c- myc mRNAs, and THC antagonized the rapid c- myc mRNA response and altered the timing of the IGF-I mRNA response. P 4 treatment alone also caused the transient induction of these mRNAs, but THC failed to antagonize these effects. An injection of P 4 plus E 2 resulted in further modest increases in IGF-I and c- myc mRNA levels as compared to E 2 or P 4 treatment alone. However, THC did not antagonize these transient stimulatory effects of the combined ovarian steroids. The data suggest that THC should not be classified as estrogenic or antiestrogenic. However, this compound can modulate (potentiate, antagonize and/or alter timing) the effects of ovarian steroids on uterine gene expression.
Ridge formation for AlGaAs GRINSCH lasers by Cl/sub 2/ reactive ion etching

Optical storage applications for AlGaAs power lasers require single-mode laser operation and well-controlled beam divergence. For AlGaAs GRIN separate confinement heterostructure (GRINSCH) ridge lasers, these optical characteristics are sensitive to the precise ridge geometry of the laser. Directional reactive ion etching with Cl/sub 2/ and in situ monitoring of the etch with highly attenuated laser interferometry provide the excellent process control required during formation of the ridge. The process is described, and results are presented for lasers that were fabricated using this technique. >
Water balance during vitellogenesis by the American cockroach: effect of frontal ganglionectomy.

Abstract Frontal ganglionectomy of adult female American cockroaches causes a retardation of crop emptying and decreases water consumption. Haemolymph volume declines markedly and oothecal production stops. Ganglionectomized animals eat approximately the same quantity of food as sham-operated animals and there is no increase in faecal pellets or diuresis. The tissue water remains relatively constant and does not appear to be in equilibrium with the haemolymph. The loss of haemolymph water and the subsequent drop in oothecal production is attributed mainly to the impairment of drinking and crop emptying. However, neural pathways involved in diuresis and ventilation movements may also be affected.
MicroRNA Circuits in Transforming Growth Factor-β Actions and Diabetic Nephropathy

Diabetes is associated with significantly increased rates of kidney disease or diabetic nephropathy (DN), a severe microvascular complication that can lead to end-stage renal disease. End-stage renal disease needs to be treated by dialysis or kidney transplantation and also is associated with cardiovascular disease and macrovascular complications. Therefore, effective renal protection is critical to reduce the rates of mortality associated with diabetes. Although key signal transduction and gene regulation mechanisms have been identified and several drugs are currently in clinical use, the rates of DN are still escalating, suggesting the imperative need to identify new biomarkers and drug targets. The recent discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) and their cellular functions provide an opportunity to fill these critical gaps. Because miRNAs can modulate the actions of key factors involved in DN such as transforming growth factor-β, they could be novel targets for the treatment of DN. This review covers the recent studies on the roles of miRNAs and miRNA circuits in transforming growth factor-β actions and in DN.
Effects of multi‐pump beam coupling on intensity enhancement of a probe beam in photorefractive two‐wave mixing

The effects of three-beam coupling are studied when two pump beams are photorefractively coupled to a probe beam of weaker intensity. Our work indicates that gain per unit effective length in the probe beam is affected by multiple-pump beam interaction. Our work further indicates that reduced gain in the probe due to such interaction may be ameliorated by geometry, beam ratio, and material parameters. Experimental verification is presented using BaTiO3 and 514.5 nm.
An expendable bathyphotometer

A modification of the AN/SSQ36 air expendable bathythermograph will very easily make an expendable bathyphotometer. Some of the phenomena that may be observed using this instrument are (1) the extenction coefficient of the open ocean (this will give a good estimate of the phytoplankton concentration; (2) the thickness of an active euphotic zone; (3) the thickness of a surface poluting outflow; and (4) the existence of high turbidity near the bottom due to strong bottom currents. Due to the ease of operation and the expendable nature of these instruments, it is very easy to make a rapid thorough survey of quite a large area.
Variation-Aware Clock Network Design Methodology for Ultralow Voltage (ULV) Circuits

This paper presents a design methodology for robust and low-energy clock networks for ultralow voltage (ULV) circuits. We show that both clock slew and skew play important roles in achieving high maximum operating frequency (Fmax) and low clock energy in ULV circuits. In addition, clock networks in ULV circuits are highly sensitive to process variations. We propose a variation-aware methodology that controls both clock skew and slew to maximize Fmax and minimize clock power. In addition, we implement dynamic programming (DP)-based ULV clock routing and buffering methods (deferred merging and embedding) for deterministic and statistical conditions. Experimental results show that our clock network design method achieves lower energy (more than 20% savings) at comparable or even higher Fmax compared with the existing methods.
Immune regulation in tumor-bearing hosts

A wealth of data indicates that tumor immunity directed against a wide variety of malignancies is suppressed in cancer patients. Recent studies have explored the role of ‘natural’ CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the suppression of tumor immunity in cancer patients. It is now clear, using multiple phenotypic and functional criteria, that the frequency of Tregs is increased in the peripheral blood of cancer patients as well as within the tumor microenvironment. Human Tregs with specificity for tumor-associated antigens have recently been identified, and murine studies have demonstrated that vaccination with tumor-associated antigens can expand Tregs, posing a challenge to cancer vaccine strategies. However, a variety of approaches, including depletion of Tregs or modulation of their activity in vivo, might soon enhance the efficacy of existing cancer vaccines directed against a variety of malignancies.
THE USE OF THE HUMAN VAGINAL SMEAR IN THE ASSAY OF ESTROGENS

LABORATORY assay methods have proven inadequate to determine the relative clinical potency of the various estrogens. By rat assay, the apparent potency of estrone varies with the number of injections and the vehicle in which the hormone is injected. Laqueur (1) found the rat unit of estrone equivalent to 10 to 16 international units, but Rowe and Simond (2) obtained a value of only 3 or 4 international units. Estradiol benzoate is approximately ten times as potent as estrone when assayed in the rat, but only four times as potent (Laqueur) or of equal activity (Rowe and Simond (3)) when tested in the mouse. The outstanding example of misleading laboratory assay is the discrepancy between rat assays and clinical trials of the methyl ether of bis-dehyrdo-doisynolic acid. In the rat, this compound when given subcutaneously is more active than estradiol, whereas, clinically it is practically inert (Segaloff (4, 5)).
The impact of ozone on a salt marsh cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora)

Spartina alterniflora plants were collected from salt marshes within New Jersey, South Carolina, and Georgia USA and shipped to The Pennsylvania State University. New plants were grown from rhizomes in six open-top field chambers. Three chambers received charcoal-filtered air, and three received charcoal-filtered air plus 80 ppb ozone, 8 h/day for 65 days. Flower, leaf, and shoot number per plant were recorded weekly. Photosynthetic rates were measured in week 5, and foliar injury was assessed during week 9. Final dry weight of roots, shoots, and rhizomes were determined. While ozone-treated plants from all states expressed symptoms of ozone injury, plants from South Carolina exhibited no effect of ozone on any other measured variable. Plants from the Georgia site showed ozone-induced reductions in all measured variables except leaf dry weight. Ozone-treated plants from New Jersey showed reductions in photosynthetic rate, leaf and shoot number, and root dry weights. Only plants from New Jersey produced flowers, with ozone treatment causing delay in flowering and reduction in the number of flower spikes produced.
Co-expression of β-adrenergic receptors and cyclooxygenase-2 in pulmonary adenocarcinoma

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma (PAC) is the leading type of lung cancer and is highly resistant to conventional cancer therapy. A better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms which control the growth of this deadly malignancy are urgently needed to develop more effective cancer intervention strategies. Recent studies have shown that PAC frequently overexpresses cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). This enzyme converts arachidonic acid (AA) into several metabolites, some of which have been identified as modulators of mitogenesis and apoptosis. Accordingly, the AA cascade and COX-2 are currently widely studied as potential targets for lung cancer prevention. Recent studies by our research group have shown that cell lines derived from human PACs express beta1- and beta2-adrenergic receptors, which regulate the release of AA and DNA synthesis. Moreover, we have demonstrated that an antagonist for beta-adrenergic receptors or aspirin inhibited the development of experimentally induced PAC in a hamster model. These findings suggest that beta-adrenergic receptors may serve as upstream regulators of AA and COX-2-mediated PAC growth. However, no information is currently available on the expression of beta-adrenergic receptors and its possible correlation with the expression of COX-2 in tissue samples from human PAC, casting some doubt on the significance of these findings in vitro and in an animal model. In the current study, we have therefore analyzed tissue samples of human PACs for the expression of beta1-and beta2-adrenergic receptors as well as COX-2 by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or immunohistochemistry. Our data show that seven out of eight samples co-expressed COX-2 and one or both of these beta-adrenergic receptors, supporting the experimental evidence for a functional link between these neurotransmitter receptors and the AA cascade in the regulation of human PAC.
HIV Infection and Health Policy.

The epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has given an urgency to health policy dilemmas that have long been brewing. By exacerbating long-standing problems, the epidemic has surpassed what we find tolerable and has pressured politicians and health officials to find solutions. Whether the approaches they take will substantially contribute to solving the underlying problems is unclear. Many persons engaged in health policy believe that in responding to the AIDS crisis we may be defining our society for future historians. Judgement may be passed on how compassionately we care for those who are sick, how effectively we choose our public health measures, and how creatively we apply our scientific knowledge. This paper addresses six challenges that face policymakers: (a) protecting people from discrimination, (b) designing testing and screening programs, (c) developing safe and effective antiviral drugs, (d) planning for future vaccine trials, (e) organizing and delivering health care to sufferers of HIV infection, and (f) financing such health care.
Synthesis of 2-β-D-ara- and 2-β-D-xylofuranosylthiazole-4-carboxamide

Abstract The syntheses of the heretofore unknown 2-β-D-ara and 2-β-D-xylofuranosyl isomers of the antitumor agent tiazofurin have been accomplished. In both cases the stereospecific inversion of the required 2′ or 3′-hydroxyl group in the protected parent compound afforded the desired products.
Bayesian/decision-feedback algorithm for blind adaptive equalization

A new blind equalization algorithm is presented that incorporates a Bayesian channel estimator and a decision-feedback (DF) adaptive filter. The Bayesian algorithm operates as a preprocessor on the received signal to provide an initial estimate of the channel coefficients. It is an approximate maximum a posteriori (MAP) sequence estimator that generates reliable estimates of the transmitted symbols. These decisions are then filtered by an adaptive decision-feedback algorithm to further reduce the intersymbol interference. The new algorithm is more robustto catastrophic error propagation thanthe standard decision-feedback equalizer (DFE), with only a modest increase in the computational complexity.
Interactions of adriamycin with a calcium binding site.

Terbium (Tb 3+ ) luminescence has been used to investigate the interactions of adriamycin with a specific calcium binding protein, in the plasma membrane of GH3/B6 pituitary tumor cells. The luminescence intensity and lifetime of the Tb 3+ -GH3/B6 complex was quenched in the presence of adriamycin. According to Stern-Volmer analysis, the quenching of Tb 3+ -GH3/B6 luminescence was by both membrane bound adriamycin (K a = 3.7 × 10 5 M −1 ) and free adriamycin (k q = 7.3 × 10 7 M −1 s −1 ). The data suggests that, the calcium binding site at the outer surface of the membrane is collisionally accessible to freely diffusing adriamycin; and, that the toxin receptor site is located near the bound metal ion.
Two-dimensional imaging measurements in supersonic flows using laser-induced fluorescence of oxygen

Abstract : Planar laser induced fluorescence of molecular oxygen in a supersonic jet of heated air is reported. A tunable, narrow-bandwidth ArF excimer laser was used to excite a rovibronic transition of oxygen in the Schumann-Runge band system at 193 nm. A comparison between the predicted pressure and temperature profiles obtained in the underexpanded round jet with the fluorescence image data is presented. Keywords: Laser, Fluorescence, Imaging, Oxygen, Supersonic Flow, Excimer
DNA-dependent RNA polymerase levels during the response of human peripheral lymphocytes to phytohemagglutinin

Abstract The cellular levels of the various RNA polymerases have been monitored in resting human peripheral lymphocytes and in lymphocytes stimulated by phytohemagglutinin. Activity was measured in the presence of exogenous templates following solubilization and chromatographic resolution of the different RNA polymerases. Resting lymphocytes contain Class I, II, and III RNA polymerases, although the respective levels of activity are very low compared to the levels in metabolically active cell types. During the PHA-induced transformation of resting lymphocytes, the Class I, II, and III enzyme levels rise dramatically. During four days exposure to PHA, the levels of RNA polymerases I and III (which synthesize, respectively, rRNA and the transfer and 5S RNAs) increase 17 fold, while the level of RNA polymerase II (which synthesizes heterogeneous nuclear RNA) increases 8 fold. The possible relationship between enzyme levels and the regulation of gene expression is discussed.
The survival of adenovirus in multidose bottles of topical fluorescein

Abstract PURPOSE: To determine if common ocular adenovirus serotypes survive in vitro in multidose bottles of topical fluorescein (Fluress; Pilkington Barnes Hind, Inc, Sunnyvale, California). METHODS: Clinical isolates of adenovirus types 8 and 19 were inoculated separately into 10 bottles each of Fluress and maintained at room temperature (25 C). All bottles were titered for adenovirus on A549 cell monolayers at 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 49 days. RESULTS: Adenovirus was recovered from Fluress for up to 21 days for adenovirus type 19 and 28 days for adenovirus type 8. CONCLUSION: A multidose bottle of Fluress contaminated with adenovirus can be a potential source of adenoviral transmission in an ophthalmic office setting.
Complex Rheology in Particle-Laden Composite Materials

The rheology of curing composite materials is important to many manufacturing processes. At Sandia, we work with particle-filled epoxy systems for a variety of applications. One particular system, designated as “459,” exhibits complex, counter-intuitive rheological dependence on temperature, flow history and particle-concentration. Despite the particles being relatively large (10 μm), 459 exhibits shear-thinning hysteretic behavior reminiscent of colloidal systems. It is hypothesized that the thixotropy arises from reaction of the 459 curative with the surface of the particulates. Under certain conditions, the addition of filler offsets the effect of epoxy polymerization on the viscosity, resulting in a viscosity that is constant with time. For this reason, we have developed an experimental model system that can be used to separate the effects of particle aggregation from the effects of cure on the viscosity. We have done experiments with this model suspension to determine its time-dependent response in step shear. In addition, we are working on a computational model that can be used to predict the behavior of the aggregating suspension. Preliminary modeling efforts focus on using a generalized Newtonian constitutive equation that relates the viscosity to the local aggregate concentration, defined by a dimensionless structure factor, to capture the time-dependence. Results from this constitutive equation are presented and compared to the experimental data from step-shear experiments in a Couette viscometer. Modeling results are also presented for a transient fiber spinning problem where the free surface evolves as the viscosity develops over time.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Novel reactor for high volume low-cost silicon epitaxy

Abstract The chemical vapor deposition of epitaxial layers of silicon is a widely used process in the electronic industry. It is a batch process and the relatively small capacity (i.e., 20–30 wafers) of epitaxial reactors significantly contributes to the expense of the process. We thus embarked on a research project aimed at a significant expansion of the reactor capacity. The first step was to conduct a complete characterization of the presently used reactors by means of flow visualization, temperature measurements and mass spectrometric studies; results of these studies will be briefly presented and discussed. The main conclusion from these studies was that up-scaling of present reactors is not economical. We thus designed and constructed a novel epitaxial reactor, radically different from current types. In this reactor the susceptor structure consists of parallel graphite discs. Wafers are fastened to one or both sides of these discs. The nutrient gaseous mixture is injected into spaces between discs by a specially designed gas distributor, which delivers the same amount of the mixture to all interdisc spacings, thus insuring the wafer-to-wafer thickness uniformity. A combination of the rotation of the susceptor discs with the gas distributor motion insures the on-the-wafer thickness uniformity. The above described parallel packing allows much higher reactor capacities (e.g., 50–100 wafers). It also results in a more economical reactor in terms of consumption of energy and chemicals. We shall illustrate the application of the novel reactor (known as the “RCA Rotary Disc Reactor”) to epitaxial deposition of silicon from SiCl2H2.
In situ growth stresses during the phase separation of immiscible FeCu thin films

Abstract This paper addresses the in situ growth stress evolution and post-growth stress relaxation during the phase separation of immiscible Fe0.51Cu0.49 thin films at various in situ deposition temperatures. Each film was sputter-deposited onto a 10 nm Si3N4 underlayer that was grown on top of Si [0 0 1] substrate at 25 °C, 145 °C, 205 °C, 265 °C or 325 °C. The thin film stress was measured using a wafer curvature technique. The in situ growth stress increased in compression with increasing substrate temperature. The stress relaxation of the Fe0.51Cu0.49 was found to have a linear increase with the inverse grain size for films deposited at temperatures greater than 205 °C. The stress state was correlated to the films’ phase and morphology by X-ray diffraction, (scanning) transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy techniques.
Noncollinear phase-matched four-photon mixing of CO2 laser radiation in germanium

Abstract Noncollinear four photon mixing of two TEA CO 2 laser beams in germanium at room temperature has been used to obtain phase-matched generation of step tunable radiation in the 8.7 μm region which is of interest for the uranium isotope separation. Using an 8.3 cm long crystal of germanium, peak output power of ≈10kW (corresponding to 1 mJ per pulse) was obtained at 8.7 μm with 3 MW peak input power from each of the two CO 2 lasers operating at 9.6 μm and 10.6 μm.
FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND THE FEDERAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN ACT; THE PROBLEMS OF REFORM LEGISLATION

(1984). FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND THE FEDERAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN ACT; THE PROBLEMS OF REFORM LEGISLATION. Free Speech Yearbook: Vol. 23, No. 1, pp. 135-155.
Integrating fuzzy rules into the fast, robust segmentation of magnetic resonance images

Fuzzy clustering algorithms have been used in the automatic segmentation of large multi-dimensional data sets such as 2D magnetic resonance images. Although the clustering algorithms perform well, they are very time consuming. Better performance at a clustering stage is achieved if the data-set can be partially classified before clustering is applied. Further, if the pre-classification is itself fuzzy, the clustering algorithm can also be initialized using the output of the pre-classification stage. We show that the use of fuzzy rules to do this pre-classification is very effective. Good segmentation of the normal human brain into tissues of interest is obtained in about one eighth the time of using clustering alone with the relatively low number of error pixels being comparable to that obtained from fuzzy c-means clustering. Our approach is also robust in the sense that the rules are image independent and hence can accommodate the kind of intensity variations that commonly occur in magnetic resonance images of the human brain.
Magneto-Optical Properties of Ni-MgO and Co-MgO Nanocomposite Films Obtained by Partial Reduction Reactions

A new processing technique was developed to synthesize metal-ceramic films containing nano-sized Ni or Co particles embedded in a MgO matrix. Sol-gel solutions were spun on different substrates with varying coefficients of thermal expansion, oxidized by heating in air and reduced to form a metal-ceramic two phase mixture. This method allows the generation of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy by use of residual stresses arising from a coefficient of thermal expansion difference between the film and substrate. Magneto-optical measurements show that the films can have relatively large Kerr and Faraday rotations, and that the metal particles have sufficient vertical magnetic anisotropy to support perpendicular magnetization. The magneto-optical properties of the films are related to the metal particle size, film thickness and substrate choice.
Nongynecologic causes of unexplained lower abdominal pain in adolescent girls

Unexplained lower abdominal pain in young women can present a challenge for even the most experienced clinicians. Although the cause is usually benign and self-limited, occasionally a serious underlying disorder exists. Clinicians should have an organized approach for diagnosis and management in an effort to avoid any unnecessary tests or referrals. The most important elements of the evaluation are a thorough history, careful physical, and sequential follow-up as needed. Selective use of the laboratory and radiographic studies should be considered on an individual basis. This paper describes four disorders in adolescent girls that may present with pain in the lower abdominal region and closely resemble pathologic conditions within the gynecologic tract. Practitioners who provide services to young women should be aware of these entities so that the correct diagnosis is established as soon as possible and appropriate therapy initiated in a timely fashion.
The neuronal architecture of the dorsal division of the medial geniculate body of the cat. A study with the rapid Golgi method.

The neurons in the nuclei of the dorsal division of the medial geniculate body were studied with the rapid Golgi method in kittens and young adult cats. The dorsal nuclei contain two principal cell types: a large stellate neuron with radiate dendrites and a bushy neuron with tufted dendrites, each with extensive dendritic fields. Two sizes of cells with locally arborizing axons (local circuit neurons) were found. The small and commonly observed one is stellate in shape, has a limited dendritic domain, and an axon with multiple, often profuse collaterals ending in the vicinity of the cell. A second, and much less common variety (large local circuit neuron) is somewhat larger and has fewer axon collaterals. Subtle, but distinct variations in these cell types distinguish the deep and superficial dorsal nuclei and also the anterior tier of naclei (deep dorsal and superficial). These functional differences may correlate with the relative morphological homogeneity of the ventral nucleus compared to the extremely heterogeneous medial division. The dorsal division should be regarded as part of the pulvinar-lateralis posterior complex both structurally and functionally. In the suprageniculate nucleus, the principal neurons are stellate cells with large perikarya and numerous and extensive dendrites covered with appendages. The large axon is devoid of collaterals. A small local circuit cell with several axon collaterals, and sparse, restricted dendrites has also been observed. In the adjacent posterior limitans nucleus, the principal neuron has a medium-sized, piriform or somewhat elongated Perikaryon, a few very long radiating dendrites, which may span the depth of the nucleus, and a long, poorly branched axon. Small neurons are also seen here. A comparison of the structure, connections, and function of the medial geniculate body suggests that the dorsal division is predominantly, but probably not exclusively auditory, while the ventral nucleus is entirely auditory and relatively homogeneous, and the medial division, polymodal and heterogeneous with respect to input.
The LLC Controversy: Classifying LLC Members as Limited Partners under Proposed Treas. Reg. §1.1402(a)-2

ABSTRACT : The LLC entity form continues to be popular, and LLCs continue to seek definitive guidance regarding the classification of LLC members for purposes of Internal Revenue Code (IRC) §1402. Although a series of recent judicial decisions and Proposed Treas. Reg. §1.469-5(e), issued in November 2011, address when an individual will be treated as a limited partner for purposes of IRC §469, they exacerbate the uncertainty surrounding how LLC members should be classified for other purposes of the Internal Revenue Code. They do not address how LLC members should be classified for purposes of IRC §1402, or whether deference should be afforded Proposed Treas. Reg. §1.1402(a)-2. Through an analysis of the relevant statutes and related regulations, recent judicial decisions, and other recent developments, we show that Proposed Treas. Reg. §1.1402(a)-2 provides limited authority to support classifying LLC members as limited partners.
Tobacco-Related Cardiovascular Diseases in the 21st Century

Cigarette smoking activates platelets, induces endothelial inflammation, and promotes vascular dysfunction leading to accelerated atherosclerosis, plaque rupture, acute coronary syndromes, and death. Over several decades, notable advances in public policy in the United States have reduced initiation and increased cessation of cigarette smoking, thus lowering the prevalence of tobacco product consumption and related cardiovascular disease (CVD). Indeed, most people in developed countries understand the harm of cigarette smoking and the health and economic benefits of abstinence and cessation. However, these public health successes have slowed recently,1 reflecting perhaps a higher degree of addiction in remaining smokers and also a degree of fatigue in further advancing preventive and treatment strategies, as well as scientific knowledge more generally. Several realities underscore the current challenges …
Student Growth in Asynchronous Online Environments: Learning Styles and Cognitive Development

As online courses become more popular with college students, it is important for student affairs professionals to understand how this unique environment influences student learning and growth. This paper examines the impact of the asynchronous online learning environment on student cognitive development. Kolb's (1984) Experiential Learning Theory of Development is used to explain this influence and further inform student affairs practice in a previously unexplored realm.
Gait Analysis Using a Shoe-Integrated Wireless Sensor System

We describe a wireless wearable system that was developed to provide quantitative gait analysis outside the confines of the traditional motion laboratory. The sensor suite includes three orthogonal accelerometers, three orthogonal gyroscopes, four force sensors, two bidirectional bend sensors, two dynamic pressure sensors, as well as electric field height sensors. The "GaitShoe" was built to be worn in any shoe, without interfering with gait and was designed to collect data unobtrusively, in any environment, and over long periods. The calibrated sensor outputs were analyzed and validated with results obtained simultaneously from the Massachusetts General Hospital, Biomotion Laboratory. The GaitShoe proved highly capable of detecting heel-strike and toe-off, as well as estimating foot orientation and position, inter alia.
Particle flow and Monge-Kantorovich transport

We compare our new particle flow nonlinear filter algorithms with Monge-Kantorovich optimal transport (MKT) algorithms. These two classes of algorithms are the same in several ways, but they differ in computational complexity and the overall intended purpose, as well as differing in several crucial details of the computation and the problem. Moreover, the deep mathematical theory of incompressible particle flow that was developed recently by Shnirelman can be used to provide insight into why our particle flow algorithms work so well.
Strategies for maintaining light metal reuse : Insights from modeling of firm-wide raw materials availability and demand

The effective reuse and recycling of metals will be a necessary element of the transition to a sustainable technology-based society. Realizing this will require actions by stakeholders throughout the materials system, this paper examines the use of mathematical programming models to identify detailed strategies for improving the reuse capacity for aluminum. Results, in particular sensitivity analysis, from this model are demonstrated to provide quantitative guidance for secondary metal processors, remelters, and product designers in their collection, selection, modification, and specification of materials. Using a case study involving hypothetical closed loop recycling of automotive aluminum, model results are used to guide alloy choices that improve reuse capacity by nearly 20%. Additionally, dozens of alloy compositional specifications are identified which offer both financial and reuse capacity benefits. The results and methods presented serve as a basis for intentional materials system design.
Error proofing healthcare: an analysis of low cost, easy to implement and effective solutions

Purpose – This study aims to provide healthcare managers with a meaningful synthesis of state of the art knowledge on error proofing strategies. The purpose is to provide a foundation for understanding medical error prevention, to support the strategic deployment of error proofing strategies, and facilitate the development and implementation of new error proofing strategies.Design/methodology/approach – A diverse panel of 40 healthcare professionals evaluated the 150 error proofing strategies presented in the AHRQ research monograph using classification systems developed by earlier researchers. Error proofing strategies were ranked based on effectiveness, cost, and ease of implementation as well as based on their aim/purpose, i.e. elimination, replacement, facilitation, detection, or mitigation of errors.Findings – The findings of this study include prioritized lists of error proofing strategies from the AHRQ manual based on the preferred characteristics (i.e. effectiveness, cost, ease of implementation) ...
Analysis and development of a broadband interconnect for microstrip lines

An analysis of an interconnect between two microstrip lines is presented. The interconnect is based on a narrow rectangular slot on the common groud plane of two microstrip lines. A moment method procedure is applied to several integral equations that were formulated by Green's functions of the grounded dielectric slabs and unknown electric and magnetic currents. Low insertion loss over an octave bandwidth was achieved for this interconnect. The theoretical results agree very well with measurements. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Brooklyn’s Experimental Frontiers: A Performance Geography

In the early 21st century, Williamsburg and Bushwick—two Brooklyn neighborhoods—became home to a glut of experimental performance venues. The location, neighborhoods colloquially called “frontiers,” suggests that this avantgarde’s experimentation demanded geographic poverty—peripheral, deindustrialized areas where neoliberal policy and racism obscured existing meanings of place.
The Lived Experience of Family Members of Persons Who Compulsively Hoard: A Qualitative Study

The current study took an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis approach to investigate the lived experiences of 12 family members of persons who hoard to better understand family members' cognitions, emotions, perceptions, experiences, and responses in their interactions with their loved ones who hoard. Five overarching themes for the participants' experiences of having a person who hoards in the family emerged: negative feelings toward the persons who hoard; lack of understanding of hoarding behavior; experiences of loss; internal barriers to seeking support; and internal conflicts. Clinical implications and recommendations for future research are discussed, including a proposed application of an ambiguous loss framework for understanding and working with the experiences of family members of persons who hoard.
PREGNANCY | Nutrient Requirements

The requirements for most nutrients are increased during pregnancy. This aticle describes the recommended intakes for nutrients in pregnancy, primarily using values published by the Institute of Medicine for the United States and Canada while commenting on differences from other organizations. Some nutrients are of special concern for pregnant women in developing countries. The scientific rationale for the recommendations is presented as are issues that remain to be resolved.
Computing transition paths in multiple-basin proteins with a probabilistic roadmap algorithm guided by structure data

Proteins are macromolecules in perpetual motion, switching between structural states to modulate their function. A detailed characterization of the precise yet complex relationship between protein structure, dynamics, and function requires elucidating transitions between functionally-relevant states. Doing so challenges both wet and dry laboratories, as protein dynamics involves disparate temporal scales. In this paper we present a novel, sampling-based algorithm to compute transition paths. The algorithm exploits two main ideas. First, it leverages known structures to initialize its search and define a reduced conformation space for rapid sampling. This is key to address the insufficient sampling issue suffered by sampling-based algorithms. Second, the algorithm embeds samples in a nearest-neighbor graph where transition paths can be efficiently computed via queries. The algorithm adapts the probabilistic roadmap framework that is popular in robot motion planning. In addition to efficiently computing lowest-cost paths between any given structures, the algorithm allows investigating hypotheses regarding the order of experimentally-known structures in a transition event. This novel contribution is likely to open up new venues of research. Detailed analysis is presented on multiple-basin proteins of relevance to human disease. Multiscaling and the AMBER ff12SB force field are used to obtain energetically-credible paths at atomistic detail.
Ultrasound-Guided Fenestration of Tendons About the Hip and Pelvis Clinical Outcomes

OBJECTIVES Percutaneous ultrasound-guided needle fenestration has been used to treat tendinopathy of the elbow, knee, and ankle with promising results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of ultrasound-guided fenestration of tendons about the hip and pelvis. METHODS After Institutional Review Board approval, a retrospective search of imaging reports from January 1, 2005, to June 30, 2011, was completed to identify patients treated with ultrasound-guided tendon fenestration about the hip or pelvis. Subsequent clinic notes were retrospectively reviewed to determine whether the patient showed marked improvement, some improvement, no change, or worsening symptoms. RESULTS The study group consisted of 22 tendons in 21 patients with an average age of 55.8 years (range, 26.7-77.0 years). The treated tendons included 11 gluteus medius (9 tendinosis and 2 partial tears), 2 gluteus minimus (both tendinosis), 8 hamstring (6 tendinosis and 2 partial tears), and 1 tensor fascia latae (tendinosis). The average interval to clinical follow-up was 70 days (range, 7-813 days). There was marked improvement in 45.5% (10 of 22), some improvement in 36.4% (8 of 22), no change in symptoms in 9.1% (2 of 22), and worsening symptoms in 9.1% (2 of 22). There were no patient variables (age, chronicity of symptoms, sex, tendon, tendinosis versus tear, prior physical therapy, and prior corticosteroid injection) that were significantly different between patients who improved and those who did not. There were no cases of a subsequent tendon tear or infection. CONCLUSIONS Clinical follow-up after ultrasound-guided fenestration of the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, proximal hamstring, and tensor fascia latae tendons showed that 82% of patients had improvement in their symptoms.
Does the Stock Market Under-React to the Federal Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Actions?

This paper analyzes the reaction of the stock market to the monetary policy actions of the Federal Reserve (the Fed). Specifically, we examine the reaction of the stock market to the monetary policy announcements by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) of the Fed. We show that the full information conveyed by the Fed is not immediately incorporated in asset prices and that there is a statistically significant abnormal return to a broad market index on the day after the announcement by the FOMC of its monetary policy actions. We use data from the federal funds futures market to measure the expected and unexpected changes in the federal funds rate. We demonstrate that the market reacts to the unexpected changes in monetary policy of the FOMC. We detect positive and statistically significant abnormal market returns on the day after the FOMC makes its monetary policy announcements. We reject the hypothesis that these returns are unpredictable by finding predictable returns the day following the day of the FOMC announcement of its monetary policy actions.
Importin-4 Regulates Gene Delivery by Enhancing Nuclear Retention and Chromatin Deposition by Polyplexes.

For successful gene delivery, plasmid DNA must be able to access the nucleus in order to be transcribed. Numerous studies have shown that gene delivery occurs more readily in dividing cells, which is attributed to increased nuclear access when the nuclear envelope disassembles during mitosis; however, nonviral carriers continue to have low transfection efficiencies and require large quantities of DNA per cell to achieve reasonable gene transfer, even in dividing cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that using histone-derived nuclear localization sequences (NLS)s to target polyplexes might enhance nuclear delivery by facilitating interactions with histone effectors that mediate nuclear partitioning and retention during mitosis. We discovered a novel interaction between polyplexes linked to histone 3 (H3) N-terminal tail peptides and the histone nuclear import protein importin-4, as evidenced by strong spatial colocalization as well as significantly decreased transfection when importin-4 expression was reduced...
Potentiometric microdetermination of substituted catechols using a lead ion-selective electrode

Substituted catechols were determined on the microscale by potentiometric titration with lead nitrate. Solutions were buffered to a pH near 9 with dilute ammonia or borate buffer. Emf's were monitored with a lead ion-selective electrode and a single-junction reference electrode. Steric factors are of importance in determining the feasibility of titration. Some fused ring aromatic compounds containingvic-dihydroxy groups can also be determined.
Measuring health-related problem solving among African Americans with multiple chronic conditions: application of Rasch analysis

Identification of patients with poor chronic disease self-management skills can facilitate treatment planning, determine effectiveness of interventions, and reduce disease complications. This paper describes the use of a Rasch model, the Rating Scale Model, to examine psychometric properties of the 50-item Health Problem-Solving Scale (HPSS) among 320 African American patients with high risk for cardiovascular disease. Items on the positive/effective HPSS subscales targeted patients at low, moderate, and high levels of positive/effective problem solving, whereas items on the negative/ineffective problem solving subscales mostly targeted those at moderate or high levels of ineffective problem solving. Validity was examined by correlating factor scores on the measure with clinical and behavioral measures. Items on the HPSS show promise in the ability to assess health-related problem solving among high risk patients. However, further revisions of the scale are needed to increase its usability and validity with large, diverse patient populations in the future.
211 A CLINICAL STUDY OF THE EFFICACY OF THE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATION OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA GEL ON THE SAPHENOUS VEIN HARVEST SITE IN CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFTING.

The application of platelet-rich plasma gel (PRP) to surgical wounds has been advocated during the past 11 years; however, very few studies of the efficacy of PRP gel have been performed within the cardiovascular surgery arena. Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), in which the saphenous vein is harvested, have a 10 to 20% risk of wound complications to the leg. Application of PRP provides hyperphysiologic levels of growth factors to the wound, with perceived benefits including less patient discomfort, shorter hospital stays, and a decreased incidence of postoperative surgical site infection. Publication of the data has the potential to impact the use of PRP gel in the cardiothoracic setting and beyond. The study9s protocol dictates that the patient is used as their own control, with PRP being applied to specified incision sites during the time of surgery. To date, 14 patients (7 diabetics) have been enrolled, 31 sites used as control, and PRP application to 38 sites. Evaluations are made beginning 24 hours postoperatively addressing issues of pain, numbness, erythema, infection, swelling, and general healing. Both qualitative and quantitative evidence offer diminutive substantiation to warrant PRP application. However, the goal of the study is to evaluate patients for a minimum of 6 weeks postoperatively in order to comprehensively determine any benefits. There have been no incidences of infection in either control or application site, and only one incidence of delayed/accelerated healing has been observed in a patient with pitting peripheral edema beginning 3 days postoperatively. Ultimately, a patient population of 30 to 40 individuals are to be followed from which more conclusive results can be obtained.
Carbon Dioxide Urethral Pressure Profilometry Before and After External Sphincterotomy in Spinal Cord Injury Patients

AbstractSeven spinal cord injury patients were studied before and after transurethral external sphincterotomy with combined electromyographic and gas urethral pressure profilometry. The technique was simple, rapid, accurate and reproducible in evaluating the completeness of external sphincterotomy. A significant reduction in maximum urethral closure pressure, as well as in the residual urine volume, was a consistent finding after sphincterotomy. The electromyographic profile showed evidence of periurethral striated muscle activity preoperatively in 2 patients with lower motor neuron lesions in whom the bulbocavernosus reflex could not be elicited. Thus, absence of the bulbocavernosus reflex did not eliminate sphincter reflex activity.
In Ten Years, All New Law Schools!

Many deans have wondered why the ABA continues to approve new law schools, given the decline in applications nationwide. This essay proposes that new law schools are not the problem, and that they in fact would drive innovation, if the accreditation process allowed for it. The essay further asserts that established schools will be new schools in 10 years, or they will not survive the changing environment of legal education.
Complications in body contouring stratified according to weight loss method.

BackgroundBody contouring procedures following massive weight loss have become increasingly common and, unfortunately, continue to be associated with a high complication rate.ObjectiveTo evaluate h...
Alfalfa Nodulins from Effective and Ineffective Symbioses

At least 12 different nodule specific proteins (nodulins) are detected in alfalfa nodules by immune assay. The pattern of nodulins from three types of ineffective nodules differs both qualitatively and quantitatively from that of effective nodules. The nodulins range in size from leghemoglobin at about 14 kilodaltons (kd) up to 140 kd. Of these, one, a 66 kd protein, is clearly present in free living R. meliloti and R. leguminosarum as well as in the bacteroids purified from either alfalfa or pea nodules. Two other nodulins comigrate with immunoreactive bacteroid proteins in SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.