cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cholesterol crystals cause mechanical damage to biological membranes: a proposed mechanism of plaque rupture and erosion leading to arterial thrombosis.

Background: Plaque rupture and/or erosion is the leading cause of cardiovascular events; however, the process is not well understood. Although certain morphologic characteristics have been associated with ruptured plaques, these observations are of static histological images and not of the dynamics of plaque rupture. To elucidate the process of plaque rupture, we investigated the transformation of cholesterol from liquid to solid crystal to determine whether growing crystals are capable of injuring the plaque cap. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that during cholesterol crystallization the spatial configuration rapidly changes, causing forceful expansion of sharp-edged crystals that can damage the plaque cap. Methods: Two experiments were performed in vitro: first, cholesterol powder was melted in graduated cylinders and allowed to crystallize at room temperature. Volume changes from liquid to solid state were measured and timed. Second, thin biological membranes (20–40 μm) were put in the path of growing crystals to determine damage during crystallization. Results: As cholesterol crystallized, the peak volume increased rapidly by up to 45% over 3 min and sharp-tipped crystals cut through and tore membranes. The amount of cholesterol and peak level of crystal growth correlated directly (r=0.98; p < 0.01), as did the amount of cholesterol and rate of crystal growth (r = 0.99; p < 0.01). Conclusions: These observations suggest that crystallization of supersaturated cholesterol in atherosclerotic plaques can induce cap rupture and/or erosion. This novel insight may help in the development of therapeutic strategies that can alter cholesterol crystallization and prevent acute cardiovascular events.
Observation of the two‐day wave near the southern summer stratopause

Temperature and H2O measurements from the Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite Microwave Limb Sounder (UARS MLS) data sets during southern hemisphere summer of 1991–92 are analyzed using the asynoptic mapping method. Results show a prominent wavenumber 3 two-day wave confined to latitudes between 60°S and 4°N and to altitudes above 2 hPa. The temperature wave amplitude increases upward to the upper limit of the observations and maximizes at 2.0 K near 0.465 hPa. The H2O wave amplitude reaches a maximum of 0.25 ppmv near 1 hPa. Evidence suggestive of wave breaking and meridional mixing associated with the interaction between this wave and a lower frequency wavenumber 1 is shown.
Recent Developments in Quantum Mechanics

The fundamental fact for quantum physics which has emerged from experimental investigations in the field is a double duality of wave and particle concepts. The wave theory of light, firmly grounded by the wave explanations of interference and diffraction and by Maxwell’s electromagnetic theory of light waves, is now recognized as giving but one aspect of the nature of radiation. The corpusclar aspect of radiation is revealed in the photoelectric effect and in the Compton effect. In these effects Planck’s constant appears as a universal constant which connects the wave and particle modes of description of the same radiation.
Diachronic Structural Rationality

ABSTRACTIn this paper I investigate whether there are genuine and irreducible pressures of diachronic rationality grounded on the structure of the subject rather than on substantive considerations, such as pragmatic ones. I argue that structural pressures of diachronic rationality have a limited scope. The most important pressure only tells against arbitrary interference with the mechanisms for the retention of attitudes over time. I then argue that in the practical case, a substantial account in terms of the agent’s temporal identity appears more promising than a purely structural one, but in the end it still leaves many questions about diachronic practical rationality underdetermined.
Uncross-matched red blood cells save lives

Haemorrhage is the second leading cause of death among patients with severe traumatic injury (Sauaia et al, 1995). It is also their most preventable cause of death, since blood loss can frequently be stopped and lost blood replaced. However, timing is critical. Eleven per cent of the red blood cells (RBC) used in acute trauma care are used in the first hour before cross-matched blood is available (Como et al, 2004). Using group O RBC in the first hour is associated with the survival of more than half of the most severely injured patients who reach a trauma centre alive.
Preferences for decision-making about contraception and general health care among reproductive age women at an abortion clinic.

OBJECTIVE: Studies suggest that not all patients desire shared decision making and little is known about decision making around contraception. This study compared decision-making preferences for contraception to preferences for general health among reproductive-aged women. METHODS: 257 women receiving abortion care in an urban hospital completed a survey which included questions adapted from the Problem-Solving Decision-Making Scale about their preferences for medical decision making. RESULTS: Women were significantly more likely to desire autonomous decision making about contraception than about their general health care (50% vs. 19% p<.001). No patient characteristics were associated with contraceptive decision-making preferences. Women with Medicaid insurance were more likely to desire autonomous decision making about contraception than about general health care (51% vs. 17% p<.001). CONCLUSION: Women desire more autonomy in their contraceptive decisions than in their decisions about general health care. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Health care providers should be attentive to the existence of variation in preferences in decision making across health domains. Contraceptive providers should proactively assess decisional preferences to ensure the most appropriate counseling is provided to each individual. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
d -Limonene sensitizes docetaxel-induced cytotoxicity in human prostate cancer cells: Generation of reactive oxygen species and induction of apoptosis.

Background: Clinical trials have shown that docetaxel combined with other novel agents can improve the survival of androgen-independent prostate cancer patients. d -Limonene, a non-nutrient dietary component, has been found to inhibit various cancer cell growths without toxicity. We sought to characterize whether a non-toxic dose of d -limonene may enhance tumor response to docetaxel in an in vitro model of metastatic prostate cancer. Materials and Methods: Human prostate carcinoma DU-145 and normal prostate epithelial PZ-HPV-7 cells were treated with various concentrations of d -limonene, docetaxel or a combination of both, and cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduced glutathione (GSH) and caspase activity were measured. Apoptosis and apoptosis-related proteins were studied by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blotting, respectively. Results: d -Limonene and docetaxel in combination significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity to DU-145 cells than PZ-HPV-7 cells. Exposure of DU-145 cells to a combined d -limonene and docetaxel resulted in higher ROS generation, depletion of GSH, accompanied by increased caspase activity than docetaxel alone. It also triggered a series of effects involving cytochrome c , cleavages of caspase-9, 3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and a shift in Bad:Bcl-xL ratio in favor of apoptosis. Apoptotic effect was significantly blocked on pretreatment with N -acetylcystein, indicating that antitumor effect is initiated by ROS generation, and caspase cascades contribute to the cell death. Conclusion: Our results show, for the first time, that d -limonene enhanced the antitumor effect of docetaxel against prostate cancer cells without being toxic to normal prostate epithelial cells. The combined beneficial effect could be through the modulation of proteins involved in mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. d -Limonene could be used as a potent non-toxic agent to improve the treatment outcome of hormone-refractory prostate cancer with docetaxel.
P128Impact of patient initiated three‐dimensional ultrasound examination

Background News media and the internet have a significant impact on raising patient awareness of new care. Visualization of the fetal face made possible by 3-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) is one such area that has encouraged many pregnant patients to initiate requests for these studies. The purpose of this project was to identify indications, reactions and benefits for these studies. Method 3DUS examinations were performed on 35 consecutive patients requesting studies from our service. We require a physician to order the 3DUS exam in conjunction with conventional 2DUS. Patients had a targeted 3DUS to the area of interest as well as the fetal face. Comments by the parents were recorded at the time of the study and after delivery. Results Medical indications for 3DUS studies were: patient reassurance (19), patients with prior anomalies (8), hospice patients carrying fetuses with fatal anomalies (2), patient with family history of anomaly (1), infertility (1), patient carrying a fetus with abnormal karyotype (1). Although most parents found the 3DUS to be a positive, reassuring experience (28), (7) found it to be extremely beneficial (previous children with anomalies or demise, fetuses with fatal anomalies, and infertile couples). Conclusion Patient initiated 3DUS studies had a positive impact and reassured all families and were extremely beneficial to 6/35 families.
Studies of Transport of Asphaltenes through Membranes Using Hindered Diffusion Theories for Spheres and Spheroids

The results of ongoing efforts by this group to model the transport of asphaltene molecules through model membranes are presented. A model is described which aims to capture the effect of the polydisperse nature of asphaltene molecules on their transport properties. The asphaltene structure is generated stochastically using Monte Carlo techniques. Individual asphaltene molecules are approximated as spheroids for the purpose of calculating their hindered diffusivities. Continuum hydrodynamic theories and boundary element methods are used to calculate the diffusion coefficients. A number of analytical expressions, scaling relationships, and approximations utilized in the literature are evaluated.
Prevention of nitrate tolerance with angiotension converting enzyme inhibitors.

BACKGROUNDActivation of neurohumoral hormones or sulfhydryl group depletion may contribute to the development of nitroglycerin tolerance. In an attempt to prevent nitrate tolerance, this study evaluated the interaction of nitroglycerin with angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors with and without a sulfhydryl group.METHODS AND RESULTSThirty-four subjects were randomized to a 7-day regimen of enalapril 10 mg b.i.d., captopril 25 mg t.i.d., or placebo. Venodilator response to nitroglycerin was assessed with forearm plethysmography by measuring the change in venous volume after administration of 0.4 mg sublingual nitroglycerin. Plethysmographic measurements were obtained serially 1) at baseline, 2) after 4 days of ACE inhibitor or placebo, 3) 2 hours after application of a 10 mg/24 hr nitroglycerin patch, and 4) 74 hours after continuous nitropatch application. ACE inhibition alone caused no significant change in the response to sublingual nitroglycerin. Nitrate response remained unchanged after 2 hou...
Rubber‐toughening in polypropylene

To deformation and fracture behavior of several polypropylene (PP) and rubber-modified PP materials have been investigated. Plastic deformation mechanisms of these systems depend upon the test rate and temperature with high rates and low temperatures being in favor of crazing. The ductility and toughness of these materials are explained in light of the competition between crack formation and the degree of plastic deformation through crazing and shear yielding. The second phase morphology with smaller average rubber particle diameter D appears to be more efficient than that with larger D in toughening PP. Theoretical calculations indicate that the stresses imposed upon the rubber particles due to volume shrinkage of PP during crystallization are sufficient to compensate for the stresses due to differential thermal contraction in cooling from solidification temperature to end-use temperature. The difference between these two is small, and therefore they provide very little contribution to interfacial adhesion between rubber particle and PP matrix, the adhesion being insufficient for the rubber particles to be effective in controlling craze propagation. The rubber particles, in addition to promoting crazing and shear yielding, can also improve the fracture resistance of PP by varying the crystalline structure of PP (e.g., reducing the spherulite dimensions).
Synthesis and properties of 18F-labeled potential myocardial blood flow tracers.

Abstract PET centers without particle accelerators make clinical PET widely available at reduced cost. For myocardial perfusion tracers, these satellite PET centers are limited to generator- produced 82 Rb + and 62 Cu[PTSM]. Their limitations motivate a search for transportable alternatives. In search of new tracers we have synthesized several 18 F-labeled amines and quaternary ammonium salts. Among them, 4-[ 18 F]fluorotri-N-methylanilinium ([ 18 F]FTMA) has flow-tracing properties. The compound is functional, but has properties that justify a continued search.
The Art of Evidence-Based Practice.

The purpose of this article is to discuss evidence-based practice (EBP) from the perspective of a self-identified evidence-based practitioner. Discussion of EBP includes choosing an initial intervention and evaluation procedures, the iterative process of rechoosing and refining an intervention over the treatment life span, and the importance of evidence within the specific clinical situation. Two illustrative case studies are presented. Practice principles include (a) explaining EBP clearly, including an ability to deconstruct key elements; (b) creating an evaluation that yields useful outcome data for practitioner and client and is realistic given the characteristics of the client system; (c) refining intervention and evaluation efforts, based on increased knowledge of the client system and as their willingness to participate changes; and (d) understanding relevant evidence about specific techniques, incorporating evidence developed as part of the intervention, and being critical consumers of both types ...
Three-Dimensional Magnetostatic Field Analysis of Electrical Machinery by the Finite-Element Method

Modern electrical plants and machinery are required to operate at high-power density levels at minimum cost and improved efficiency with a high degree of reliability. Such stringent requirements necessitate a high degree of accuracy in predicting machine performance at the design stage, for which sophisticated analytical tools are essential. In this paper, a rigorous three-dimensional magnetic field analysis based on the finite element method is presented. The correct choice of the vector potential solution is established and it is shown that the variational formulation yields an energy-related functional associated with the vector Poisson equation which, when minimized, results in the true solution to the field problem. The analysis developed is applied to illustrative geometries; the principal amongst these being a two-winding transformer and a segment of a turbine generator.
Effective medium representation and complex modes in 3D periodic metamaterials made of cubic resonators with large permittivity at mid-infrared frequencies

Abstract We review some of the techniques that lead to the effective medium representation of a three-dimensional (3D) periodic metamaterial. We consider a 3D lattice of lead telluride cubic resonators at mid-infrared (MIR) frequencies. Each cubic resonator is modeled with both an electric and a magnetic dipole, through a method called the dual dipole approximation. The electric and magnetic polarizabilities of a cubic resonator are computed via full-wave simulations by mapping the resonator's scattered field under electric/magnetic excitation only to the field radiated by an equivalent electric/magnetic dipole. We then analyze the allowed modes in the lattice, with transverse polarization and complex wavenumber, highlighting the attenuation that each mode experiences after one free space wavelength. We observe the presence of two modes with low attenuation constant, dominant in different frequency ranges, able to propagate inside the lattice: this allows the treatment of the metamaterial as a homogeneous material with effective parameters, evaluated by using various techniques. We then show that the metamaterial under analysis allows for the generation of artificial magnetism (i.e., relative effective permeability different than unity, including negative permeability with low losses) at MIR frequencies.
Soil nitrogen availability and transformations differ between the summer and the growing season in a California grassland

Abstract California grasslands experience major seasonal changes in temperature and rainfall which may affect the microbial processing of nitrogen (N), a growth-limiting soil resource. While N cycling dynamics during the growing season (fall, winter, and spring) are well-studied in California grasslands, details about summer N cycling are scarce, presumably because researchers assume that nothing biologically important happens in soils during the hot, dry summer months when grasses are dead or dormant. However, studying soil N dynamics over the summer is crucial to understanding soil N availability at the beginning of the subsequent growing season. To characterize the differences between summertime and growing season N availability and microbial processing of N, we compared N pool sizes, rates of N mineralization, potential nitrification, potential denitrification, and microbial biomass during the dry non-growing season (late spring and summer) with those of the moist growing season (fall, winter, and early spring) in a California grassland. Many of the patterns we observed differed from our expectations; net mineralization, both nitrification and denitrification potentials, and microbial biomass all increased during summer. Our findings raise questions about the controls on N cycling in Mediterranean-type grassland ecosystems where plant productivity is controlled by rainfall, and suggest a greater level of complexity in the mechanisms behind N cycling dynamics in California grasslands than previously thought.
Planar Photonic Crystal Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers

Planar index-guided proton-implanted photonic crystal vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers are fabricated and characterized. Index guiding from the photonic crystal improves the performance of the lasers by creating a stable light output versus current response, reducing the threshold current, and enhancing the differential quantum efficiency. Examination of the etch depth dependence of laser efficiency reveals various mechanisms that affect the laser performance and modal properties such as optical loss, Joule heating, and spectral gain-resonance alignment. Photonic crystal designs can be chosen which result in lasing operation only in the fundamental transverse mode from threshold to maximum power, even for the condition of blue-shifted gain spectrum relative to the cavity resonance. Suitable photonic crystal designs are shown to be manufacturable due to the planar device topology, the use of optical lithography in all processing steps, and compatibility with virtually any vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser epitaxial designs.
Fatal Immune Restoration Disease in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1—Infected Patients with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy: Impact of Antiretroviral Therapy—Associated Immune Reconstitution

Immune reconstitution resulting from use of highly active antiretroviral therapy in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) has been associated with a significant decrease in infectious morbidity and with improved survival. Occasionally, patients with quiescent disease due to human cytomegalovirus or nontuberculous mycobacteria may experience paradoxical worsening due to "dysregulated" restitution of the immune system (that is, immune restoration disease [IRD]). Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is uncommon and often improves with immune recovery. We describe 2 HIV-1-infected patients with PML that presented with paradoxical worsening after the patients had commenced active antiretroviral therapy. After they had a transient response to high-dose corticosteroid therapy, both patients died of progressive neurological deterioration. IRD in these patients with PML was unexpected and occurred soon after they had started receiving active antiretroviral therapy, during the period of improved antigen-specific T-helper cell function. Predictors of patients' proclivity for these adverse events are uncertain. Evaluation of targeted immunomodulatory therapy directed towards disease-specific IRD is critical and may play an important role in improved survival for patients who are at risk.
Two-dimensional representations of the free group in two generators over an arbitrary field

Abstract Working over an arbitrary field, we classify all two-dimensional representations of the free group with two generators.
Mutation breeding for improved internal quality and appearance in Russet Burbank

Mutation breeding was investigated as a method to improve important quality traits in the cultivar Russet Burbank. Two thousand excised eyes were irradiated with a gamma-ray dose of 35 Gy. The irradiated eye pieces were planted directly to the field and approximately three tubers from each of resulting plants were harvested and, constituted the initial 6000 clone selection population. The M1V1 tubers and subsequent clonal progeny were subjected to six generations of evaluation and selection. Selection criteria included appearance, resistance to blackspot bruise, french fry color following storage at 4 C, and specific gravity. At the end of six selection cycles, five mutants remained from the original population of approximately 6000. These included two mutants selected for improved appearance (RBM161 and RBM366), one for resistance to blackspot bruise (RBM166), one for french fry color (RBM13), and one for specific gravity (RBM170). An analysis of variance over three years showed that the three mutants selected for internal quality traits (RBM13, RBM166, and RBM170) produced lower yields in comparison with two Russet Burbank control clones. RBM161 was selected for its heavier, more uniform russet skin, and appeared to be similar to the mother clone for important agronomic and quality traits. RBM366 was selected for improved appearance, typified by higher breeders preference scores and a lower percentage of tubers exhibiting external defects. It also produced higher total and U.S. No. 1 yields than the controls.
Effect of monosodium glutamate on serum luteinizing hormone and testosterone in adult male rats

Abstract The effect of monosodium glutamate (MSG) on serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels was investigated in adult male rats. Circadian changes of serum LH and testosterone were not affected by dietary MSG (approx. 5.2 g/kg body weight/day). The subcutaneous injection of MSG (1 g/kg body weight) lowered serum LH and testosterone levels temporarily about l h subsequently. Rats injected with NaCl (0.35 g/kg body weight) showed appreciable change of serum LH and testosterone 4 h subsequently.
UV-B exposure and atmospheric ozone: evaluation of radiative flux to changes in ambient ozone levels

Abstract The changes in ground level radiative flux as a function of stratospheric and tropospheric ozone changes are investigated with a delta-two stream radiation model. Ground level radiative flux are calculated for several future scenarios with tropospheric pollution levels representative of an urban center in the eastern United States. These simulations were conducted under conditions of stratospheric ozone loss based on recent satellite measurements. The calculated ground level radiative flux is found to be disproportionately affected by the tropospheric ozone levels.
On completeness of the spectral domain of harmonizable processes

The spectral domain of harmonizable processes is studied and a criterion for its completeness is obtained. It is shown that even for periodically correlated processes the spectral domain need not be complete.
Inflammation and Pyroptosis Mediate Muscle Expansion in an Interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-dependent Manner

Muscle inflammation is often associated with its expansion. Bladder smooth muscle inflammation-induced cell death is accompanied by hyperplasia and hypertrophy as the primary cause for poor bladder function. In mice, DNA damage initiated by chemotherapeutic drug cyclophosphamide activated caspase 1 through the formation of the NLRP3 complex resulting in detrusor hyperplasia. A cyclophosphamide metabolite, acrolein, caused global DNA methylation and accumulation of DNA damage in a mouse model of bladder inflammation and in cultured bladder muscle cells. In correlation, global DNA methylation and NLRP3 expression was up-regulated in human chronic bladder inflammatory tissues. The epigenetic silencing of DNA damage repair gene, Ogg1, could be reversed by the use of demethylating agents. In mice, demethylating agents reversed cyclophosphamide-induced bladder inflammation and detrusor expansion. The transgenic knock-out of Ogg1 in as few as 10% of the detrusor cells tripled the proliferation of the remaining wild type counterparts in an in vitro co-culture titration experiment. Antagonizing IL-1β with Anakinra, a rheumatoid arthritis therapeutic, prevented detrusor proliferation in conditioned media experiments as well as in a mouse model of bladder inflammation. Radiation treatment validated the role of DNA damage in the NLRP3-associated caspase 1-mediated IL-1β secretory phenotype. A protein array analysis identified IGF1 to be downstream of IL-1β signaling. IL-1β-induced detrusor proliferation and hypertrophy could be reversed with the use of Anakinra as well as an IGF1 neutralizing antibody. IL-1β antagonists in current clinical practice can exploit the revealed mechanism for DNA damage-mediated muscular expansion.
Digestibility, protein content, and nutrient yields of alfalfa stressed by selected early season insect pests and diseases

A field study to examine effects of three early season alfalfa pests on forage nutrient quality and nutrient yield was conducted from 1981 to 1983. Eight treatments with all possible combinations of clover root curculio (CRe), Sitona hispidulus (F.); alfalfa weevil (A W), Hypera postica (Gyllenhal); and soil-borne root-rot fungi (FU) were replicated in field plots. CRC larval feeding reduced first-harvest percentage crude protein content by ≤1.07%. Also, crude protein (CP) values were decreased in second and third harvests, in response to earlier CRC presence. AW and FU presence had minimal adverse impact on protein levels. In the first harvest, in vitro digestibility was reduced by AW larval feeding from 63.74 to 61.39%; the other two pests had no significant effects. Pest stresses significantly reduced yields of CP and in vitro digestible dry matter. These losses resulted from reductions of dry-matter yields but were intensified by losses of nutrient content. An economic analysis showed that pest stresses reduced herbage value per metric ton based on nutrient content alone, by $5.00 and $2.63 in 1982 and 1983, respectively. Economic value per hectare, a combination of nutrient value and dry-matter reductions, showed losses of $187.53 in 1982 and $169.20 in 1983 from pest stresses.
Appearance-related communication mediates the link between self-objectification and health and well-being outcomes

Grounded in objectification theory, the 2 studies presented here predicted that self-objectification is positively related to appearance-related communication (i.e., fat talk and old talk), and, in turn, appearance-related communication is associated with health and well-being outcomes. Results from Study 1, which investigated only fat talk, revealed that fat talk significantly mediated the relationship between self-objectification and body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, bulimia, and self-esteem. Study 2 sought to replicate the findings from Study 1, as well as extend appearance-related communication to old talk. Fat talk was found to mediate the relationships between self-objectification and body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, bulimia, depression, and diet. Old talk significantly mediated the relationships between body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, and bulimia.
Macromodeling of Digital MOS VLSI Circuits

This paper presents a method for modeling MOS combinational logic gates. Analyses are given for power consumption, output response delay, output response waveshape, and input capacitance. The models are both computationally efficient and accurate, typically lying within 5% of SPICE estimates. They are pertinent to simulation and optimization applications. A general macromodeling software support package is described. A related paper [1] discusses a circuit optimizer based on these models.
An Experimental Investigation Into the Temperature Profile of a Compliant Foil Air Bearing

A series of tests was performed to determine the internal temperature profile in a compliant bump-type foil journal air bearing operating at room temperature under various speeds and load conditions. The temperature profile was collected by instrumenting a foil bearing with nine, type K thermocouples arranged in the center and along the bearing s edges in order to measure local temperatures and estimate thermal gradients in the axial and circumferential directions. To facilitate the measurement of maximum temperatures from viscous shearing in the air film, the thermocouples were tack welded to the backside of the bumps that were in direct contact with the top foil. The mating journal was coated with a high temperature solid lubricant that, together with the bearing, underwent high temperature start-stop cycles to produce a smooth, steady-state run-in surface. Tests were conducted at speeds from 20 to 50 krpm and loads ranging from 9 to 222 N. The results indicate that, over the conditions tested, both journal rotational speed and radial load are responsible for heat generation with speed playing a more significant role in the magnitude of the temperatures. The temperature distribution was nearly symmetric about the bearing center at 20 and 30 krpm but became slightly skewed toward one side at 40 and 50 krpm. Surprisingly, the maximum temperatures did not occur at the bearing edge where the minimum film thickness is expected but rather in the middle of the bearing where analytical investigations have predicted the air film to be much thicker. Thermal gradients were common during testing and were strongest in the axial direction from the middle of the bearing to its edges, reaching 3.78 8C/mm. The temperature profile indicated the circumferential thermal gradients were negligible.
Bias Against Women-Owned Enterprises? An Empirical Test

Women-owned enterprises are proving to be a powerful economic force in the U.S. Yet, these enterprises have been found to face unique challenges, particularly in equity capital markets and corporat...
Verification of a Pedestrian Simulation Tool Using the NIST Recommended Test Cases

Abstract In an attempt to develop a verification and validation standard for building fire evacuation models, Ronchi et al. (2013) at the United States’ National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recommended a set of seventeen verification tests. We found that the application of these verification tests allowed us to make rather significant improvements to our simulation code (PEDFLOW) for approximately half of the recommended tests (Table 1). In some cases, we added capabilities that did not exist before. In other cases, we found anomalous behaviors and adjusted the existing code to remove these unexplained behaviors. This paper summarizes the work on the verification tests, highlighting the lessons learned and modifications made. We also discuss some modifications we recommend to the NIST verification tests, as well as demonstrate how to make these tests suitable for all pedestrian flow models (not just building fire evacuation).
Experimental analysis of the effects of atmospheric turbulence on a 29-km free-space laser communication link

Laser beams propagating through the atmosphere are affected by optical turbulence, whose static and dynamic properties can be characterized by spatial and temporal fields of the refractive index. The resulting wave front distortions lead to performance degradation in the form of reduced signal power and increased bit-error-rates (BER), even in short links; however, it is impossible to obtain closed-form solutions for instantaneous realizations of these distortions and all the subsequent events. Instead, the statistical properties of the refractive index fluctuations can be studied using one of the well-known spectral models and extended further into the scintillation analysis and analysis of communication performance. From a practical stand point, it would be very advantageous to relate the expected system performance to specific factors responsible for wave front distortions, which are typically linked to some weather variables, such as the air temperature, pressure, wind speed, etc. In this paper, we present the results of a detailed experimental study, where some of these relationships are mathematically justified based on the tests conducted over a period of several months. The measurement data was obtained using a 29-km free-space laser communication link established between two fixed-point terminals and operating at a wavelength of 1550 nm.
Cross-domain transfer of quantitative discriminations: is it all a matter of proportion?

Meck and Church (1983) estimated a 5:1 scale factor relating the mental magnitudes representing number to the mental magnitudes representing duration. We repeated their experiment with human subjects. We obtained transfer regardless of the objective scaling between the ranges; a 5:1 scaling for number versus duration (measured in seconds) was not necessary. We obtained transfer even when the proportions between the endpoints of the number range were different. We conclude that, at least in human subjects, transfer from a discrimination based on continuous quantity (duration) to a discrimination based on discrete quantity (number) is mediated by the cross-domain comparability of withindomain proportions. The results of our second and third experiments also suggest that the subjects compare a probe with a criterion determined by the range of stimuli tested rather than by trial-specific referents, in accordance with the pseudologistic model of Killeen, Fetterman, and Bizo (1997).
The axial load teardrop fracture A biomechanical, clinical, and roentgenographic analysis

The anteroinferior cervical vertebral body corner fracture was originally described by Schneider and Cann as the "teardrop" fracture. This report analyzes the biomechanical, clinical, and roentgenographic features of 55 such fractures obtained from the National Football Head and Neck Injury Registry. Teardrop fractures resulting from tackle football characteristically occurred in players attempting to make a tackle in which initial contact was made with the top or crown of the helmet. There were two fracture patterns associated with the anteroinferior corner (teardrop) fracture fragment: 1) the isolated fracture, which is usually not associated with permanent neurologic sequelae; and 2) the three-part, two-plane fracture in which there is an associated sagittal vertebral body fracture as well as fracture of the posterior neural arch. This latter pattern was almost always associated with permanent neurologic sequelae, specifically quadriplegia. Axial loading of the cervical spine was clearly identified as a mechanism of injury for both fracture patterns. Roentgenographic examination must include both anteroposterior and lateral views with computed tomography or tomography as necessary to determine the presence of the sagittal vertebral body fracture and the integrity of the posterior neural arch.
First Hand: The Art of International Communication

d s v f b o u s ONE OF THE perks of being in academic medicine is the opportunity to travel to all parts of the world to give lectures and teach, but ore importantly, to interact with international coleagues. In turn, I have hosted trainees from all egions of the world for clinical and research fellowhip training. Through these international contacts, I ave learned many valuable lessons regarding disinct linguistic and cultural differences in various ountries. I have also encountered misinterpretation nd faux pas in these experiences. When I was a Sterling Bunnell Fellow, I traveled he world representing the American Society for Surery of the Hand. Of course, before each visit, I read p on the history of the institutions I was planning to isit. Despite my best efforts, and those of the Hand ociety’s protocol officers, certain cultural norms are ot always part of the Wikipedia articles. I vividly emember giving an animated lecture in a country in he Far East with a long and distinguished tradition in and surgery. I had organized a lecture specifically or this auspicious venue, and sitting in the front row ere noted professors from various prestigious instiutions. After what I presumed was an unsurpassed racle, my last “Thank You” slide was met with an erie silence in the entire auditorium. Two possibilties came to mind: I had either blown my audience way with the depth of my analysis or they considred my performance a comical display of ignorance hat would surely be reported as such to the Hand ociety immediately upon my departure. Not knowng what to do when there were absolutely no quesions, I panicked and asked the first person I recogized whether he had any questions regarding my ecture. In retrospect, I probably should have re-
Pump-probe laser photolytic fragmentation fluorescence spectrometry of isomeric alkenes

The two-laser {open_quotes}pump-probe{close_quotes} photolytic fragmentation fluorescence spectometry of three octenes and two nonenes is described. Probe-laser-induced C{sub 2} fluorescence (Deslandres-d`Azambuja system, C{sup 1}II{sub g}{updownarrow}A{sup 1}II{sub 11}) is detected. The relative C{sub 2} fluorescence intensity and spectral patterns exhibited by each alkene are strongly dependent on the probe-laser wavelength. The dependence of the fragment fluorescence intensity on the probe-laser fluence implies that the {open_quotes}probe{close_quotes} laser induces photofragmentation of intermediate species produced by the {open_quotes}photolysis{close_quotes} laser. 23 refs., 5 figs., 3 tabs.
Strategies for modeling the uncertain impacts of climate change

Abstract Modeling of the physical and social effects of climate change is fraught with uncertainty. A hierarchy of computer codes often must be used, each with embedded uncertainties. Traditional methods of anlyzing uncertainty—brute-force Monte Carlo analysis and sensitivity testing—are expensive and time-consuming. By means of a simple example, the article shows that to reduce cost, hierarchies can be analyzed by sensitivity experiments at selected design points. Reduced-form models are then simulated at each level of the hierarchy to summarize variables and functional relationships that truly matter, while preserving the statistical integrity of the distributions of outcomes.
Application of the Horner method for a well produced at a constant bottomhole pressure

This paper presents an analytical solution to describe the pressure buildup for wells produced at constant bottomhole pressures (BHP's) in an infinite-acting reservoir. The buildup equation is derived on the basis of an initial condition approximating the pressure profile in the wellbore and in the reservoir at the time of shut-in.
A Novel Use of a Statewide Telecolposcopy Network for Recruitment of Participants in a Phase I Clinical Trial of a Human Papillomavirus Therapeutic Vaccine

Background Historically, recruitment and retention of young women in intervention-based clinical trials have been challenging. In August 2012, enrollment for a clinical trial testing of an investigational human papillomavirus therapeutic vaccine called PepCan was opened at our institution. This study was an open-label, single-arm, single-institution, dose-escalation Phase I clinical trial. Women with recent Papanicolaou smear results showing high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or results that could not rule out high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion were eligible to enroll. Patients with biopsy-confirmed high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion were also eligible. Colposcopy was performed at the screening visit, and participants became eligible for vaccination when the diagnosis of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion was confirmed with biopsy and other inclusion criteria were met. The aim of this study was to identify strategies and factors effective in recruitment and retention of study participants. Methods Potential vaccine candidates were recruited through direct advertisement as well as referrals, including referrals through the Arkansas telecolposcopy network. The network is a federally funded program, administered by physicians and advanced practice nurses. The network telemedically links rural health sites and allows physician-guided colposcopy and biopsies to be conducted by advanced practice nurses. A variety of strategies were employed to assure good retention, including face-to-face contact with the study coordinator at the time of consent and most of study visits; frequent contact using text messaging, phone calls, and e-mails; and creation of a private Facebook page to improve communication among research staff and study participants. A questionnaire, inquiring about motivation for joining the study, occupation, education, household income, number of children, and number of sexual partners, was administered at the screening visit with the intent of identifying factor(s) associated with recruitment and retention. Results A total of 37 participants were enrolled between September 2012 and March 2014. The largest proportion of participants (46%) was enrolled from the telecolposcopy network. Others were enrolled through outside institutions (43%), in-house referrals (8%), or direct advertisement (3%). Most participants were motivated to join the study to take care of their health issues. Only two participants joined the Facebook private page. Of the 24 participants who qualified for vaccination, only 1 terminated early due to an unanticipated move. Conclusion The availability of a large number of potential participants from the telecolposcopy network increased recruitment to this clinical trial by 85% over other traditional means of recruitment. The telecolposcopy network is not only a means of providing a gynecological service to women who otherwise would forego care but also a novel and valuable resource in recruiting participants for a clinical trial.
Producing Knowledge For Practice Assessing NVSQ 2000-2010

The question of relevance and the production of usable knowledge for practice has been a foremost concern for the field of nonprofit studies since the early years of the Association for Research on...
An Improved Parametric Bit Rate Model for Frame-Level Rate Control in Video Coding

In a wireless video communication system, the video encoder needs to dynamically control the coding parameters based on the instantaneous video statistics and channel condition to achieve the best video quality. An accurate bit rate model can help the encoder to achieve accurate bit rate control and good rate-distortion (R-D) performance. In this paper, we improve the bit rate model by modeling the component of run-level mapping plus entropy coding as the process of choosing different codebooks for different quantized transform coefficients. We also compensate the mismatch between the true histogram and the assumed Laplacian distribution in a parametric model by utilizing the deviation of the estimation in previous frames.
A short carboxyl-terminal tail is required for single-stranded DNA binding, higher-order structural organization, and stability of the mitochondrial single-stranded annealing protein Mgm101

Mgm101 is a Rad52-type single-stranded annealing protein (SSAP) required for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) repair and maintenance. Structurally, Mgm101 forms large oligomeric rings. Here we determine the function(s) of a 32–amino acid carboxyl-terminal tail (Mgm101238–269) conserved in the Mgm101 family of proteins. Mutagenic analysis shows that Lys-253, Trp-257, Arg-259, and Tyr-268 are essential for mtDNA maintenance. Mutations in Lys-251, Arg-252, Lys-260, and Tyr-266 affect mtDNA stability at 37°C and under oxidative stress. The Y268A mutation severely affects single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) binding without altering the ring structure. Mutations in the Lys-251–Arg-252–Lys-253 positive triad also affect ssDNA binding. Moreover, the C-tail alone is sufficient to mediate ssDNA binding. Finally, we find that the W257A and R259A mutations dramatically affect the conformation and oligomeric state of Mgm101. These structural alterations correlate with protein degradation in vivo. The data thus indicate that the C-tail of Mgm101, likely displayed on the ring surface, is required for ssDNA binding, higher-order structural organization, and protein stability. We speculate that an initial electrostatic and base-stacking interaction with ssDNA could remodel ring organization. This may facilitate the formation of nucleoprotein filaments competent for mtDNA repair. These findings could have broad implications for understanding how SSAPs promote DNA repair and genome maintenance.
Some Empirical Relations Between Travel Speed, Traffic Volume and Traffic Composition in Urban Arterials

The effects of traffic mix (the percentage of cars, trucks, buses and so on) are of particular interest in the speed-volume relationship in urban signalized arterials under various geometric and control characteristics. The paper presents some empirical observations on the relation between travel speed, traffic volume and traffic composition in urban signalized arterials. A methodology based on emerging self-organizing structures of neural networks to identify regions in the speed-volume relationship with respect to traffic composition and Bayesian networks to evaluate the effect of different types of motorized vehicles on prevailing traffic conditions is proposed. Results based on data from a large urban network indicate that the variability in traffic conditions can be described by eight regions in speed-volume relationship with respect to traffic composition. Further evaluation of the effect of motorized vehicles in each region separately indicates that the effect of traffic composition decreases with the onset of congestion. Moreover, taxis and motorcycles are the primary affecting parameter of the form of the speed-volume relationship in urban arterials.