cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pain, psychological status, and functional recovery in chronic pain patients on daily opioids: a case comparison.

Long-term opioid therapy for chronic benign pain remains controversial. Most studies on the effectiveness of such regimens have been case series or case comparisons and very few randomized placebo-controlled studies are available. Overall, this research has produced mixed results. The current study sought to further explore issues regarding the effectiveness of opioids for chronic pain and to examine the use of adjunctive medications in these patients. A random sample of 100 patients taking daily opioids (Opioid) and 100 taking no opioids (Non-opioid) at evaluation were selected from the patient population of a tertiary care multidisciplinary pain program. Statistical analyses revealed that the two groups did not differ regarding pain type, duration, location, or surgical history. Non-Caucasians were less likely to be taking opioids than Caucasians (p < 0.05). Relative to the Non-opioid group, Opioid patients were less frequently taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (p < 0.01) and were more often taking anxiolytics (p < 0.05) and muscle relaxants (p < 0.01). Opioid patients reported higher (p < 0.05) current pain and more frequently (p < 0.05) reported current or past clinical depression or anxiety. No other significant differences were noted on measures of pain, psychological status, or functioning. Statistical removal of the effects of pain differences did not alter the pattern of results for psychological and functional measures. Although the study design employed did not allow determination of causality, it is consistent with previous work which has failed to reveal any advantage to use of daily opioids in the chronic pain population with regard to analgesia, decreased adjunctive medication use, or functional recovery. Well-designed, prospective, randomized studies are needed, but the current results suggest continued caution in the use of daily opioids until such studies become available. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.
Feline aggression toward family members: a guide for practitioners.

Feline aggression toward people is a common and potentially dangerous problem. Proper diagnosis of the underlying cause of the aggression is key in effective treatment. A complete history, including information on the people in the home, other pets, and specific incidents, is necessary to make this diagnosis. A comprehensive treatment plan typically includes management, enhancement of the cat's living environment, techniques for replacing the aggressive behavior with more appropriate behaviors, and, potentially, medication. The treatment plan must reflect the abilities and commitment of the owner. Language: en
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Breast Cancer

Sentinel lymph node biopsy techniques have evolved in a short period of time to become a highly accurate method for the pathologic staging of clinically node-negative breast cancers. Multiple single and multi-institutional studies have confirmed a high accuracy of pathologic staging (95-100%) with reasonable false-negative rates (0-15%). The use of vital blue dyes, radioactive isotopes, or a combination of the two are the most commonly employed techniques used for this procedure. Currently, two large prospective randomized Phase III clinical trials supported by the National Cancer Institute are underway, which will define the effectiveness of these techniques as compared to standard axillary dissection in regards to regional disease control and patient survival.
Inner shelf intrusions of offshore water in an upwelling system affect coastal connectivity

[1] Poleward warm water flows around Point Conception are an important transport mechanism linking biogeographic provinces along central California. These flows are initiated by relaxation of upwelling winds; the intensity and duration of upwelling is an important driver of how far north warm water penetrates against the prevailing surface currents. In this paper we present evidence of offshore surface water intrusions to the inner shelf, 130 km north of Point Conception, near Cambria, California. Satellite observations show that the intrusions originate as eddies generated offshore along the upwelling front. These eddies may form as submesoscale instabilities or by interaction of upwelling centers with offshore waters. The intrusions move southern waters to the central California inner shelf further northward than is typical for a coastal relaxation plume, and therefore, inner shelf connectivity and ecology may be governed over timescales and distances longer than those set by the intermittent relaxation of upwelling winds.
Influence of loading pulse duration on dynamic load transfer in a simulated granular medium

Abstract An experimental and numerical investigation was conducted to study the dynamic response of granular media when subjected to impact loadings with different periods or wavelengths. The granular medium was simulated by a one-dimensional assembly of circular disks arranged in a straight single chain. In the experimental study, the dynamic loading was produced using projectile impact from a gas gun onto one end of the granular assembly, and the measured wave signal was collected using strain gages. The numerical simulations were conducted using the distinct element method. It was found from the experiments and numerical simulations that input waves with a short period (τ ≈ 90 μs) will propagate in this granular medium with little waveform change under steady amplitude attenuation ; whereas longer waves (τ $ 200 μs) will propagate with significant waveform dispersion. For these longer wavelength signals, the smooth waveform will undergo separation into a series of short oscillatory signals, and this rearrangement of energy allows a portion of the transmitted signal to increase in amplitude during the initial phases of propagation. Thus the granular medium acts as a nonlinear wave guide, and local microstructure and contact nonlinearity will allow input signals of sufficiently long wavelength to excite resonant sub-units of the medium to produce this observed ringing separation. Following a modeling scheme originally proposed by Nesterenko [J. Appl. Mech. Tech. Phys. 5,733 (1983)], a nonlinear wave equation model was developed which is related to soliton dynamics and leads to travelling wave solutions of specific wavelength found in our experimental and numerical studies.
A pulse polarographic investigation of parathion and some other nitro-containing pesticides

Abstract The polarographic behaviour of parathion, its major metabolites (paraoxon and p -nitrophenol), and of methylparathion, EPN and pentachloronitrobenzene has been studied over a wide pH range. Differential pulse polarography is used to differentiate between parathion, p -nitrophenol and pentachloronitrobenzene. An indirect determination of parathion in the presence of paraoxon can be based on their respective rates of hydrolysis in 0.5 M sodium hydroxide solution. The electrochemical behaviour of these compounds has also been investigated in solutions containing tetraalkylammonium salts as the supporting electrolyte.
Maintaining Interpersonal Continuity in Groups: The Role of Collective Memory Processes in Redistributing Information

Maintaining interpersonal continuity of experience is a process by which groups ensure that new information is available to members who require it. Groups and organizations continuously encounter new information. Sometimes this information is encountered by a single member (or subset of the group), who may have to redistribute it to other members for it to be useful to the group as a whole. Redistribution is conceptualized as a collaborative activity where members recall past episodes during group discussion, thereby creating shared knowledge. Discourse data from an observational study of groups managing a simulation show that redistribution takes place mainly at the outset of meetings. Members with different perspectives on new information participate differently in the redistribution process. Outgoing members (the possessors of new information) initiate a majority of references to the preceding meeting, and contribute the most memories. Incoming (previously inactive) members also participate in redistribution by focusing recall and contributing information of their own from earlier meetings. Redistribution is a dynamic process that evolves in the course of interaction.
Density-functional-based prediction of a spin-ordered open-shell singlet in an unpassivated graphene nanofilm

I briefly review some of the methods, developed at the Naval Research Laboratory, that were used in a variety of collaborations with the Frauenheim group. To aid experimental understanding at that time, we attempted to predict equilibrium structures and also provide calculated vibrational spectra for direct comparison to experimental measurements. Most of our work was on carbon-based systems with a heavy focus on fullerenes and diamond. More recently another pure carbon compound, graphene, has received much attention. In this paper, I present applications of density-functional-based spectroscopic techniques to a single graphene nanofilm and confirm that spin polarization can occur at the edge states. However, antiferromagnetic ordering is preferred over ferromagnetic ordering. By extracting a Heisenberg Hamiltonian from the calculations the energy of the various spin multiplets can be estimated through diagonalization of this Hamiltonian. The Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof–density-functional theory (PBE-DFT) results indicate that both antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic graphene structures are vibrationally stable but that the lowest-energy eigenstate of the system is an open-shell singlet with a gap of approximately 14 cm−1 to the open-shell triplet state. Consistent with recent work that stabilizes graphene nanofilms via adsorption onto metal surfaces the density functional results presented here show that small graphene nanofilms, while vibrationally stable, will exothermically form previously identified fullerene structures. Vibrational excitation spectra for the 54-atom graphene and fullerene structures are calculated to provide spectroscopic means for distinguishing between the two structures.
Simulation of Heat-Transfer Characteristics of Wet Clutch Engagement Processes

A three-dimensional finite-volume-based numerical method was developed to predict the transient thermal response of wet clutch discs during engagement. Unstructured brick or wedge elements were used to represent the geometry so that complex groove patterns could be modeled in a relatively simple manner. The sliding between discs was incorporated through a source / sink term derived from a Lagrangian approach. Furthermore, the heat transfer across different materials was solved together in an implicit manner through the use of a conjugate heat-transfer algorithm. The numerical method was applied to a number of clutch packs and the results compared favorably with both the analytical solution and the experimental data. Finally, the method was applied to evaluate the thermal effectiveness of double-parallel and radial groove designs for the same clutch and under the same operating conditions. It was found that the double-parallel groove design was superior to the radial groove design as far as thermal perform...
Nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) and cellular senescence

NF-Y, also termed CBF, is a major CCAAT-binding transcription factor that specifically recognizes the consensus sequence 5'-CTGATTGGYYRR-3 or 5'-YYRRCCAATCAG-3' (Y = pyrimidines and R = purines) present in the promoter region of many constitutive, inducible, and cell-cycle-dependent eukaryotic genes. The functional NF-Y is a heterotrimeric protein, consisting of three different subunits, A, B, and C. Each of the three subunits contains two or three distinct protein-interacting domains for trimer formation and for interacting with other nuclear proteins. Only the trimeric NF-Y, and not the individual subunit, possess DNA-binding activity. The transcriptional activity of NF-Y can be regulated by differential expression, alternative splicing, protein-protein interactions, and cellular redox potential. The regulation of thymidine kinase (TK) and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) genes in human diploid fibroblasts serves as an example of how NF-Y may have a role in replicative senescence by regulating age-dependent G1/S genes.
Perfusion-Weighted Imaging/Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Mismatch on MRI Can Now Be Used to Select Patients for Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator Beyond 3 Hours Con

My German colleagues claim that MRI can now be used to select patients for tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy beyond the 3-hour time window. I wish that were so. As a clinical investigator, it would make my life much easier. However, I still have important reservations. The computed tomography (CT) criteria for excluding stroke victims within 3 hours were defined in the National Institutes of Health tPA trial3 as being the presence of an increased density on the image. This is associated with hemorrhage. However, as my colleagues note, “Although never formally assessed, CT is commonly considered the ‘gold standard’ to demonstrate (intracerebral hemorrhage).”2 Nevertheless, the tPA trials showed that excluding patients with this abnormality leads to demonstrable efficacy of treatment for acute stroke patients. The reason we want to exclude …
Spontaneous Fission Yields from Uranium and Thorium

Relative spontaneous fission yields from uranium and thorium have been determined by extracting xenon krypton from geologically old uranium and thorium minerals and measuring the isotopic abundances of these gases in a mass spectrometer. Arguments are presented for believing that the anomalous isotopic abundances observed are caused by spontaneous fission rather than by some other fission process. The spontaneous fission yield curve peaks were found to be much sharper than those associated with other fission processes. Evidence was found for fine structure in the fission yield curve at mass 132, possibly connected with preferential formation of spontaneous fission fragments containing 50 protons and 82 neutrons. Evidence for neutron induced fission in pitchblende was found.
Preparing Students for Meaningful Culture Learning

As culture becomes more a focus in the foreign language classroom, teachers need to increase their understanding of two related concepts: first, what preparation is necessary for students to succeed in learning another culture; second, what problems language teachers and their students may encounter in the culture learning process. This article discusses the need for teachers to restructure their views of culture learning, taking into account both the process itself and the problems that may arise. Presented are practical lessons that can help both to prepare students to accept another culture and to address potential problems.
The sliding wing crack—again!

We present accurate numerical calculations for the opening and extension of tensile wing cracks driven by sliding on an oblique crack with Coulomb friction. In contrast to previous analyses, the portions of the crack system that are open or closed and slipping or stuck are determined as part of the solution. Calculations reveal that reduction of the compressive normal stress accompanying opening of the wing cracks causes considerable opening of the sliding crack providing an additional component of macroscopic dilatancy. Immediately upon unloading the central portion of the planar crack is locked but there is closure of the open portions of the crack causing a decrease in inelastic volume strain as observed in laboratory experiments. Reverse slip begins near the open portion of the crack and spreads toward the center. The rate of decrease of inelastic volume strain with axial stress remains small, causing an apparent “dead band” until the axial stress is sufficiently reduced to cause reverse slip on the entire crack. This apparent “dead band” is small because opening reduces the compressive normal stress on the planar crack. These calculations demonstrate that the behavior of this model is consistent with measurements of inelastic volume strain and acoustic velocity on laboratory rock specimens.
Bereitschaftspotential enhancement with increased level of motivation

Abstract Bereitschaftspotentials (BSPs) were taken from scalp electrodes overlying the left and right Rolandic areas of eleven human subjects under two conditions, baseline (where responses resulted in no reward) and reward (where "correct" responses resulted in monetary reward). BSP amplitudes were significantly larger under reward than under baseline condition, and were significantly larger over the hemisphere contralateral to the responding hand for both conditions. No interaction between conditions and locations was found. These results are taken as evidence showing some common neural and behavioral substrates for the BSP and the DC shift known as the Contingent Negative Variation.
Absolute normalization of neutron scattering cross section data using organic scintillators as scatterers

Abstract An improved method for obtaining absolute neutron cross sections from time-of-flight scattering data has been developed which uses organic scintillators as scattering samples and Monte Carlo, experiment simulating techniques.
AN IMPROVED METHOD FOR CUTTER RUNOUT MODELING IN THE PERIPHERAL MILLING PROCESS

Cutter runout is an important problem in milling operations. Runout increases the maximum cutting force, degrades the surface finish, increases cutter wear, and affects the dynamic behavior of the cutting process. Unlike past research that has primarily centered on describing the effects of runout on the cutting forces and surface texture, the focus here is on a systematic modeling and measurement technique for cutter runout in peripheral milling. A three-step methodology for runout estimation is presented. The first step comprises of an enhanced runout model that includes the effects of cutter grind, parallel axis offset, and cutter tilt. The next step is to outline a simple procedure to measure the data to be used in the proposed model, and the final step is a technique for the estimation of the runout parameters from this model and the data collected. This runout estimation model is applied to three different types of carefully selected cutters. A designed set of experiments is performed to verify the ...
Politeness, Time Constraints, and Collaboration in Decision-Making Meetings: A Case Study

Relatively little is known about the politeness strategies used by technical communicators and designers in group settings, particularly in the decision-making, collaborative meetings of a real-world, naturally occurring group. This study explores the degree to which members of a well-established group linguistically express concern for their fellow collaborators and how that concern may be affected by the type and imminence of their deadlines.
Oxidant signalling in carcinogenesis: a commentary:

It is becoming increasingly evident that reactive oxygen species (ROS) act at different stages of carcinogenesis, and thus play multiple roles in oncogenesis. In addition to being mutagenic and initiating tumors, ROS or carcinogens that result in ROS generation may affect tumor promotion and progression through varied effects on growth promoting, growth inhibitory, or apoptotic signaling pathways.
Incorporation of pyrimidine deoxyribonucleosides into liver lipids and other components.

Abstract 1. 1. Labeled thymidine or deoxycytidine were injected into rats or mice and the distribution of the radioactivity in the nuclei, mitochondria, microsomes or soluble fraction isolated from the livers was determined. It was found that the microsomes contained the largest amount of particulate-bound radioactivity and the nuclei the least and that the lipid and protein fractions of the mitochondria and microsomes contained the bulk of their radioactivity while the DNA fraction contained very little label. 2. 2. Incorporation of labeled thymidine or deoxycytidine into DNA, lipids and proteins was diminished, but not to the same degree in each, by the prior administration of unlabeled forms of these compounds. The incorporation of thymidine into lipids and proteins but not into DNA was also diluted by the prior injection of the thymidine catabolities, β-aminoisobutyric acid or dihydrothymine. 3. 3. Chromatography of the particulate lipid fraction obtained after labeling with [3H]thymidine or [3H]deoxycytidine revealed that lecithin, phosphatidyl ethanolamine and neutral glycerides contained most of the radioactivity. In the case of the lipids obtained from the liver soluble fraction, the radioactivity was associated only with the neutral glyceride fraction. 4. 4. When the particulate lipid fractions were hydrolyzed and chromatographed the main radioactive products corresponded to glycerol, glycerylphosphoryl choline and glycerylphosphoryl ethanolamine when [3H]thymidine was the precursor. With [3H]deoxycytidine, however, two main radioactive products, apparently derived from the fatty acid protion of the glycerides, were obtained. 5. 5. Hydrolysis of the microsomal protein fraction obtained after labeling with [3H]thymidine and fractionation of the amino acids released revealed that serine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid contained the largest amount of label, alanine and methionine were much less radioactive, and the other amino acids were unlabeled.
Continuous separating families in ordered spaces and strong base conditions

Abstract In this paper we study the role of Stepanova's continuous separating families in the class of linearly ordered and generalized ordered spaces and we construct examples of paracompact spaces that have strong base properties (such as point-countable bases or σ -disjoint bases), have continuous separating families, and yet are non-metrizable.
Reactivity of seed lectins with blood-typed canine erythrocytes

Extracts from 117 species of plant seeds were examined for lectin activity against a panel of blood-typed canine red calls. Seed extracts were tested with unmodified and enzyme-treated red cells. Some (53) reacted with either unmodified or enzyme-treated red cells, some (7) were haemolytic, and some (57) did not react. No lectins were found to exhibit canine blood group specificity. Lectin reactivity for canine red cells is compared to reactivity for human red cells.
Tri- and tetra-nucleotide microsatellite DNA markers for the rayed bean freshwater mussel (Villosa fabalis)

Freshwater mussels are one of North America’s most imperiled species, and genetic characterization of these species is essential for recovery planning. The rayed bean (Villosa fabalis) is a small freshwater mussel found in the eastern United States currently listed as endangered. Fifteen microsatellite loci were identified and characterized in sixteen V. fabalis individuals. The number of alleles per locus observed ranged from 3 to 14 and averaged 7.9 alleles per locus. Average observed heterozygosity was 72.8 %. These markers should be useful for V. fabalis population analyses and restoration or recovery programs.
Novel method for optimal placement of power system stabilizer using principal component analysis

In order to improve system stability, power system damping controllers such as power system stabilizers (PSS) and FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission Systems)-based stabilizers are often used to damp oscillations and increase damping of the power system oscillatory modes. However, the optimal placement of PSS is extremely critical due to cost involved and the need for finding the most appropriate damping requirements and location for a given system. In this paper, we propose a novel method for optimal placement of power system stabilizer using principal component analysis. The proposed approach provides full ranked optimal conditions for the PSS placement as opposed to other work reported in the literature. Three test cases are performed to evaluate the proposed concept and it has been found that the proposed architecture outperforms the current methodologies reported so far.
Wheel running reduces high-fat diet intake, preference and mu-opioid agonist stimulated intake

The ranges of mechanisms by which exercise affects energy balance remain unclear. One potential mechanism may be that exercise reduces intake and preference for highly palatable, energy dense fatty foods. The current study used a rodent wheel running model to determine whether and how physical activity affects HF diet intake/preference and reward signaling. Experiment 1 examined whether wheel running affected the ability of intracerebroventricular (ICV) μ opioid receptor agonist D-Ala2, NMe-Phe4, Glyol5-enkephalin (DAMGO) to increase HF diet intake. Experiment 2 examined the effects of wheel running on the intake of and preference for a previously preferred HF diet. We also assessed the effects of wheel running and diet choice on mesolimbic dopaminergic and opioidergic gene expression. Experiment 1 revealed that wheel running decreased the ability of ICV DAMGO administration to stimulate HF diet intake. Experiment 2 showed that wheel running suppressed weight gain and reduced intake and preference for a previously preferred HF diet. Furthermore, the mesolimbic gene expression profile of wheel running rats was different from that of their sedentary paired-fed controls but similar to that of sedentary rats with large HF diet consumption. These data suggest that alterations in preference for palatable, energy dense foods play a role in the effects of exercise on energy homeostasis. The gene expression results also suggest that the hedonic effects of exercise may substitute for food reward to limit food intake and suppress weight gain.
Electrochemical and mechanical behavior in mechanically robust solid polymer electrolytes for use in multifunctional structural batteries

Polymer electrolytes were investigated for potential use in multifunctional structural batteries requiring both mechanical and electrochemical properties. Electrolytes were formulated with a broad ...
Resolving conflicts between butterfly host resource abundance and genet population size estimates for a vegetatively spreading, threatened grassland legume

Abstract Population size estimates are an integral part of rare plant conservation, but common abundance measurements such as cover and ramet number may not accurately index genet population size for vegetatively spreading species. Population monitoring of Kincaid’s lupine (threatened species) populations occurs through genet-anonymous leaf cover and raceme counts despite extensive, non-adventitious rhizome growth. While the current monitoring scheme provides important resource abundance measurements for the endangered Fender’s blue butterfly, whose larvae feed on Kincaid’s lupine leaves, the methods are not appropriate for estimating lupine genet number. Major axis regression revealed well supported statistical relationships between cover, raceme, and plantlet (a measurement of modular plant growth) density within six study patches ( n = 3 populations) of Kincaid’s lupine ( R 2 > 0.90) and when all patch data were combined ( R 2 > 0.91). Genet population size estimates from genotype only data with ACE (an estimator used to infer species richness) were similar to estimates derived from a combination of plantlet density and genet to plantlet ratios (genotype derived) in small, more thoroughly genotyped lupine patches. However, genet number estimates from ACE were 3–5-fold greater in less intensely genotyped patches. Genet-anonymous plant abundance measurements, such as cover, can be used to estimate genet number in populations of vegetatively spreading plants provided they are calibrated with a unit of modular plant growth. Calibration of vegetative measurements, consistency of between population relationships, and closer scrutiny of highly supported statistical models may be necessary to develop more pertinent monitoring methods for rare, vegetatively spreading plants.
A new species of the allodapine bee genus Braunsapis from the Central African Republic (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

A new species of the allodapine bee genus Braunsapis Michener (Allodapini: Allodapina) is described and figured from a series of females collected in the Central African Republic. Braunsapis maxschwarzi Engel, new species, is similar to B. paradoxa (Strand) from South Africa, both species sharing the concave dorsal surface of the sixth metasomal tergum and the peculiar bifid apical projection of the sixth metasomal sternum. The new species, however, can be distinguished by the more extensively developed yellow markings of the face, the yellow pronotal lobe, the more shoulder-like posterolateral margins of the sixth tergum [more similar in this regard to B. angolensis (Cockerell) and not greatly produced as in B. paradoxa ], and the more erect and prominent dorsal setae of metasomal terga IV–VI, among other traits.
Northcott's theorem on heights I. A general estimate

Given a pointP=(ao:...:an) of projective space ℙn=ℙn (A) whereA is the field of algebraic numbers, letd(P) be its degree andH(P) its absolute multiplicative height. Northcott's Theorem says that givend, n andX, there are only finitely many pointsP∈ℙn withd(P)≦d andH(P)≦X. We will show that there are at mostc(d, n)Xd(d+n) such points.
A kinetic study of the thermal degradation of polyester/cotton blends by thermogravimetry

Abstract The weight loss curves obtained from a series of polyester/cotton blends heated in air at heating rates of 0.1–5°C min −1 have been determined and compared with those calculated from the individual components. Comparison of the thermogravimetric curves and calculated kinetic parameters indicates that interactions occur between the polyester and cotton components in the blends. Although these interactions may be primarily physical in nature, they are sufficiently large to cause changes in the degradation kinetics of the weight loss processes responsible for gaseous product formation.
Large outside blockholders as monitors: Evidence from partial acquisitions

Abstract We investigate the monitoring effect of large outside blockholders by examining the market reaction to partial acquisitions. After removing partial acquisitions which lead to majority control blocks, we study a sample of initial outside block formations. We separate the sample into three groups based on the acquirer’s intent: activist, strategic, and financial. The three-day cumulative abnormal returns (CAR = 17.55%) around activist block purchases are significant both economically and statistically, suggesting the existence of monitoring benefits. Strategic block purchases also exhibit large returns (CAR = 15.46%), which reflect synergy benefits and may also be the result of potential monitoring advantages. In contrast, the CAR around financial block purchases (1.42%) is only marginally significant, both economically and statistically. We document a positive wealth effect of block size, pressure insensitivity of the block and board representation and a negative wealth effect of the managerial ownership of the target firm. We also find that the market reaction to activist blocks is particularly large when there is no previous outside block.
The effect of point mutations on structure and mechanical properties of collagen-like fibril: A molecular dynamics study

Abstract Understanding sequence dependent mechanical and structural properties of collagen fibrils is important for the development of artificial biomaterials for medical and nanotechnological applications. Moreover, point mutations are behind many collagen associated diseases, including Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). We conducted a combination of classical and steered atomistic molecular dynamics simulations to examine the effect of point mutations on structure and mechanical properties of short collagen fibrils which include mutations of glycine to alanine, aspartic acid, cysteine, and serine or mutations of hydroxyproline to arginine, asparagine, glutamine, and lysine. We found that all mutations disrupt structure and reduce strength of the collagen fibrils, which may affect the hierarchical packing of the fibrils. The glycine mutations were more detrimental to mechanical strength of the fibrils (WT > Ala > Ser > Cys > Asp) than that of hydroxyproline (WT > Arg > Gln > Asn > Lys). The clinical outcome for glycine mutations agrees well with the trend in reduction of fibril's tensile strength predicted by our simulations. Overall, our results suggest that the reduction in mechanical properties of collagen fibrils may be used to predict the clinical outcome of mutations.
Further Considerations of the Phenomenology of Proxemics

Subjective distance is the individual's experience of a particular objective interpersonal distance. In the present experiments, this distance was measured by subjects positioning two inanimate forms at a separation distance they judged as identical to an actual social spacing preceding the measurement task. In Exp. 1, subjective distances for 30 males and 30 females were assessed following a condition of inappropriate spatial closeness; the subjects significantly underestimated the objective interpersonal distance. This replicated an earlier finding despite the fact that the method of measuring subjective distance was dramatically altered. The consistency of this finding provided some validity for the subjective-distance construct. In Exp. 2, a cognitive reappraisal of close interpersonal spacing by 20 subjects significantly reduced the underestimation effect of Exp. 1. A theoretical analysis of the subjective distance data emphasized perceived size as a salient psychological cue to distance perception i...
Unpublishable research: examining and organizing the ‘file drawer’

It is well known that a number of research outcomes are not reported (the so-called ‘file drawer problem’). It is generally assumed that what is not reported are ‘negative results’. Our study approaches the issue from a new angle by exploring what researchers perceive to be ‘unpublishable’. A survey regarding ‘unpublishables’ was sent out to 2,535 faculty members at Indiana University. Forty of these individuals consented to in-depth interviews, which more fully explored these academics' views on the issue of unpublishable work. Our results indicate that there are several types of research besides negative results that are perceived to be unpublishable yet worthy of publication. Moreover, there is a great diversity within and across disciplines as to what constitutes ‘unpublishable’ research. Respondents indicated that academic discourse would benefit from the formal dissemination of papers that included inconclusive or null results, as well as replication and refutation studies. The results of our study suggest that there is a perceived gap in scholarly communication, which is to the detriment of science. These results can be used by administrators, educators, and publishers in order to refine scholarly communication practices so as to create a more robust, accurate literature and to inform future generations of researchers.
High power and high linearity photodiodes for microwave photonic applications

This talk will describe modified uni-traveling carrier photodiodes (MUTCs) that have achieved high RF output power and high saturation current. Discrete photodiodes, 4×1 phase matched arrays, and balanced detectors will be discussed.
The social media president: Barack Obama and the politics of digital engagement

As inquiry into the role of emerging media in politics has gained traction since the pivotal 2008 elections, the critical questions have extended beyond investigation of what strategies are employe...
Comparison of single-dose and extended methamphetamine administration on reversal learning in rats.

Protracted use of methamphetamine (mAMPH) can result in long-term impairments in cognitive function in humans. A previous study reported reversal-specific learning impairments in rats after a binge administration of mAMPH. Several studies show that extended exposure to mAMPH may confer protection against cognitive impairments and the insult to monoamine systems typically observed after larger binge doses. To explore this issue, we compared the effects of escalating and single doses of mAMPH (and saline, SAL) on retention, reversal learning, and post-mortem analysis of dopamine and serotonin transporters, DAT and SERT. Rats learned to discriminate equiluminant stimuli and then were treated with either: (1) 4 weeks of mAMPH increasing by 0.3 mg/kg, culminating in 6 mg/kg (mAMPHescal); (2) 4 weeks of SAL with a single dose of 6 mg/kg on the last day of treatment (mAMPHsingle); or (3) 4 weeks of SAL. Following treatment, rats were tested on retention and reversal learning, with subsequent analysis of DAT and SERT binding across subregions of the striatum and frontoparietal cortex, respectively. Retention of the pretreatment discrimination was not significantly impaired in either mAMPH treatment group. A significant decrease in ventrolateral striatal DAT binding was observed only in the mAMPHsingle group and frontoparietal SERT was unaffected by either mAMPH treatment. Both treatment groups demonstrated attenuated reversal learning, particularly on measures of accuracy and effort. These results show that extended and single-dose pretreatment with mAMPH similarly and selectively affect reversal learning, even in the absence of significant DAT or SERT changes.
Prognostic and predictive value of exertional hypotension in suspected coronary heart disease

The prognostic and predictive value of exertional hypotension was assessed in 1,241 patients having treadmill maximal exercise testing, coronary arteriography, and follow-up averaging 5.4 years. Medically treated patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) with exertional hypotension had poorer survival than did those without such hypotension; however, maximum systolic pressure during exercise was a more powerful predictor of survival. Patients with exertional hypotension had more extensive CAD and more left ventricular (LV) dysfunction than did patients who had an increase in blood pressure with exertion; these findings probably account for the impaired survival. However, exertional hypotension, was an insensitive indicator of significant left main coronary artery stenosis, 3-vessel disease, or severe resting LV dysfunction.
Social justice, free market style

Challenging orthodoxy on both left and right, political theorist John Tomasi develops a new account of liberal justice – free market fairness – to show how limited government and the material betterment of the poor can be reconciled. In doing so, he asks the left to rethink their attitude towards private economic liberty.
Regulation of Interleukin-1-Stimulated GMCSF mRNA Levels in Human Endothelium

The regulation of interleukin-1 (IL-1)-mediated increases in GMCSF mRNA levels in human endothelium was examined and determined to occur in a time- and protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent manner. IL-1beta induced the early activation and translocation of PKC isotypes alpha and beta2 to the nucleus and PKC inhibition attenuated the IL-1-mediated increase in GMCSF mRNA levels. PKC activation by PMA alone, in the absence of IL-1beta activation, however, was insufficient to allow GMCSF mRNA detection. Increasing cyclic adenosine nucleotide (cAMP) levels suppressed IL-1beta-induced increases in GMCSF mRNA levels. In contrast, botulinum toxin C, which mediates the ADP ribosylation of a 21 kD ras-related G protein, augmented IL-1beta-induced GMCSF mRNA expression. Inhibition of protein synthesis (with cycloheximide) raised basal GMCSF mRNA transcripts to detectable levels, augmented IL-1-induced increases in GMCSF mRNA levels, and exhibited negative regulation by cAMP. Finally, disruption of either microtubules (with colchicine) or microfilaments (with cytochalasin B) resulted in reduced GMCSF mRNA expression in response to IL-1beta. These results are compatible with a model wherein IL-1-mediated increases in human endothelial cell GMCSF mRNA may be linked to both nuclear protein kinase C activation and activation of a low molecular weight G-protein, although neither activity alone is sufficient to increase the levels of GMCSF mRNA.
Low Power Thermal Tuning of Second-order Microring Resonators

Efficient thermal tuning of 36 pm/K and 60 muW/GHz is shown for high-index-contrast silicon nitride second-order filters. Their compact size, large free-spectral range, low tuning power, and silicon compatibility make these resonators attractive for photonic integration.
Genetic Predisposition and Taste Preference: Impact on Food Intake and Risk of Chronic Disease

Nutritional intake can profoundly impact the development of human disease, mainly by driving the progression of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Taste perception can profoundly affect food preference and nutritional intake. Thus, human variation in taste responsiveness to certain foods may play an integral role in these health consequences by influencing nutrient assimilation. Therefore, we review here what is currently known about variation in taste perception, its genetic underpinnings, and how this variation may impact upon nutrient ingestion. We also provide a brief primer on the functional organization of the peripheral gustatory system. Elucidation of the mechanisms underpinning the association between taste perception, eating behavior, and energy regulation could be valuable in predicting who is at greater risk of becoming obese, as well as in finding novel therapeutic targets in the management and mitigation of obesity-related conditions.
Epidemiology: Spotlight on CKD deaths—increasing mortality worldwide

In the USA, mortality among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease has declined over the past two decades. By contrast, new data indicate that the rate of CKD-associated deaths is increasing worldwide. This important finding highlights CKD as a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality.
ANOTHER LOOK AT EVIDENCE ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF CERTAIN SPECULATIVE PRICES

Benoit Mandelbrot suggests that prices of certain commodities follow stable Paretian distribution laws. Our results indicate that ARCH-type models fit some Mandelbrot time series fairly well. In other cases, tests for nonlinear dependence and chaos reject the ARCH specification. However, the patterns of dependence exhibited by these data are generally not consistent with the hypothesis that they are generated by a chaotic dynamic process.
The effect of EDGAR on the market reaction to 10-K filings

Abstract This paper examines the impact of making accounting information available on the Internet simultaneously and almost costlessly to all market participants. More specifically, we examine if filing form 10-K on EDGAR has any effect on the information dissemination process when compared to the traditional method of filing. We examine a random sample of firms that file on EDGAR for the first time and compare the market response to their 10-K filing to that of the previous year's filing which was not on EDGAR. Consistent with the preexisting literature, we do not find a market reaction to the pre-EDGAR filing. In contrast, we find both a price and volume reaction to 10-K's filed on EDGAR. We perform a variety of univariate and multivariate tests to ensure that our results are not driven by other factors, i.e., firm characteristics and timing of 10-K filings. Overall, we find evidence that the market reacts more significantly to 10-K's filed on EDGAR. In our multivariate tests we also examine whether the EDGAR effect is more important for certain types of firms. Consistent with our expectations, we find the EDGAR effect is smaller for faster growing firms for which we believe there are more non-EDGAR sources of information. Finally, we document that, on average, 10-K's filed on EDGAR are filed earlier than 10-K's filed under traditional methods.
A functional account of degrees of minimal chemical life

This paper describes and defends the view that minimal chemical life essentially involves the chemical integration of three chemical functionalities: containment, metabolism, and program (Rasmussen et al. in Protocells: bridging nonliving and living matter, 2009a). This view is illustrated and explained with the help of CMP and Rasmussen diagrams (Rasmussen et al. In: Rasmussen et al. (eds.) in Protocells: bridging nonliving and living matter, 71–100, 2009b), both of which represent the key chemical functional dependencies among containment, metabolism, and program. The CMP model of minimal chemical life gains some support from the broad view of life as open-ended evolution, which I have defended elsewhere (Bedau in The philosophy of artificial life, 1996; Bedau in Artificial Life, 4:125–140, 1998). Further support comes from the natural way the CMP model resolves the puzzle about whether life is a matter of degree.
Preparation for the Practice of law—the Views of the Practicing Bar

The competence of the practicing bar has been subjected to substantial criticism in recent years. Since law schools have a virtual monopoly over access to the bar and licensure is granted without further training, legal education has been a particular focus of attack and reform efforts. Yet there has been little systematic study of what skills and knowledge are important in the actual practice of law or the relevant contributions of legal education. This study of practicing lawyers in Chicago examines the nature of the competencies important to the practice of law and the sources lawyers credit for contributing to their development. Practitioners cite a broad range of skills, many of them not unique to the practice of law, with their importance varying by the predominant legal specialty practiced. The data further indicate that law schools play but a part in the development of skills and knowledge important to the practice of law and that experience, both prior and subsequent to graduation, plays a significant role. The evaluation of law schools' contributions is related to opportunities for further training, particularly in the context of law firm practice. There is, however, a strong general view that law schools rather uniformly concentrate on some skills to the exclusion of others and that the former are not necessarily those that lawyers think are most important to the practice of law.
Why Cancer is not Recognized Early

That cancer is not recognized in its early stage by the medical profession as a whole is quite obvious from the following facts: 1. Thirty to 50 per cent of the cancers of the breast (Harrington), 42 per cent of the cancers of the large intestine (Rankin), and 75 per cent of the cancers of the stomach (Balfour) are inoperable when first seen in The Mayo Clinic. 2. Sixty-two per cent of the operable cancers of the breast, 38 per cent of the cancers of the large intestine, and 53.5 per cent of the cancers of the stomach have metastasized to regional lymph nodes when seen. 3. The average size of operable cancers of the breast is 3.2 cm. in diameter, of those of the large intestine 6.4 cm., and of those of the stomach 6.1 cm. (5). 4. Only 29 per cent of the operable cancers of the breast are smaller than a quarter of a dollar (2.5 cm.), and this is true of only 2.2 per cent of the cancers of the large intestine and only 6 per cent of cancers of the stomach (4). That cancers do occur and are sometimes found as very small lesions is also quite obvious from the fact that in a series of 7,179 specimens of surgically removed cancers, the smallest found in the breast was 2 mm. in diameter, in the large intestine 9 mm., and in the stomach 5 mm. (5).