cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is there an effect of flat-panel-based imaging systems on quantitative coronary and vascular angiography?

Objectives: To study the possible effects on quantitative coronary or vascular analyses (QCA and QVA) on images of a flat-panel-based (FP-based) system. Background: Since a few years, more and more cardiovascular X-ray imaging systems are equipped with flat-panel detectors, replacing the conventional image intensifiers in combination with CCD cameras for the creation of the angiographic images. Methods: To assess any differences in QCA and QVA results from these two types of digital X-ray imaging systems, we performed a quantitative comparison study on images of the Medis coronary and vascular phantom, respectively. All phantom images were acquired on both a FP-based and an image intensifier-based (II-based) imaging system with different system settings (3 different kV-levels and 4 field of view sizes). Results: The QCA and QVA results showed that all the systematic and random errors for the subsets of the FP-based and II-based systems were very small and satisfy the QCA and QVA reference guidelines, though some of the subsets of the FP-based and II-based coronary and vascular phantom images demonstrate a statistically significant difference. However, given the small magnitude of these under- and overestimations under phantom conditions, these differences are considered clinically irrelevant. Conclusions: The image characteristics of the FP-based images do not have any significant influence on the results of QCA and QVA analyses. As a consequence, a further optimization of the contour detection algorithm is not necessary for FP-based images, and data from both II-based and FP-based X-ray imaging systems can be used collectively in (multicenter) clinical trials. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Do we count indivisible photons or discrete quantum events experienced by detectors

As low light detection technologies are advancing, novel experiments like single molecule spectroscopy, quantum computation, quantum encryption are proliferating. Quantum mechanical detectors can produce only discrete "clicks" at different rates based on the propagating field energy through them, irrespective of whether the photons are divisible or indivisible packets of energy. This is because electrons are quantized elementary particles and they are always bound in quantized energy levels in different quantum systems. Highly successful quantum formalism is not capable of providing the microscopic picture of the processes undergoing during QM interactions; that is left to human imaginations allowing for sustained controversies and mis-interpretations. This paper underscores the paradoxes that arise with the assumption that photons are indivisible elementary particles based on the obvious but generally ignored fact that EM fields do not operate on (interfere with) each other. Then we propose that atomic or molecular emissions emerge and propagate out as space and time finite classical wave packets. We also suggest experiments to validate that the amplitude of a photon wave packet can be split and combined by classical optical components using the specific example of an N-slit grating.
The Role of Actuaries and Underwriters in Insuring Ambiguous Risks

Although there is a large body of literature on the unwillingness of the insurance industry to offer protection against risks such as environmental pollution, there has been only limited analysis regarding two key actors in the decision processâactuaries and underwriters. However, if actuaries and underwriters feel that a particular type of risk is uninsurable, then it is unlikely to be offered. This paper investigates how ambiguities associated with a risk affect actuary and underwriter decision processes, the paper contends that the decision of the insurance industry to not provide protection against environmental pollution liability is due to ambiguity of the risk. Empirical evidence from controlled laboratory experiments with actuaries and a model of choice in underwriter decision processes support this point.
The tumour suppressor CYLD is a negative regulator of RIG-I-mediated antiviral response

On detecting viral RNAs, the RNA helicase retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) activates the interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) signalling pathway to induce type I interferon (IFN) gene transcription. How this antiviral signalling pathway might be negatively regulated is poorly understood. Microarray and bioinformatic analysis indicated that the expression of RIG-I and that of the tumour suppressor CYLD (cylindromatosis), a deubiquitinating enzyme that removes Lys 63-linked polyubiquitin chains, are closely correlated, suggesting a functional association between the two molecules. Ectopic expression of CYLD inhibits the IRF3 signalling pathway and IFN production triggered by RIG-I; conversely, CYLD knockdown enhances the response. CYLD removes polyubiquitin chains from RIG-I as well as from TANK binding kinase 1 (TBK1), the kinase that phosphorylates IRF3, coincident with an inhibition of the IRF3 signalling pathway. Furthermore, CYLD protein level is reduced in the presence of tumour necrosis factor and viral infection, concomitant with enhanced IFN production. These findings show that CYLD is a negative regulator of RIG-I-mediated innate antiviral response.
Fabrication and X-Ray Calibration of Thin Plastic Scintillator Detectors

Thin film plastic scintillator detectors were fabricated and calibrated with x rays in the 1.5-20 keV range. The calibration systems used are described. Measurements showed that the presence of a film substrate can significantly change the detector response. X-ray conversion efficiency was determined as a function of energy and shown to be a strong function of energy for low energy x rays.
Ab initio study of Arn–HCO+ (n = 0–6): insight into size dependent cluster ion properties

Abstract Minimum energy structures, dissociation energies, and harmonic vibrational frequencies are determined for Ar n –HCO + ( n = 0–6) at the MP2/aug-cc-pVDZ level of theory. In all clusters, one Ar atom occupies an energetically preferred bonding site interacting with the hydrogen of HCO + with a linear or near-linear Ar–H–C bond angle. The subsequent Ar atoms add by forming a ring around this Ar–HCO + moiety with the detailed geometry determined largely by Ar/Ar interactions. The positions of the first five Ar atoms can be understood in terms of the crystal structure of solid argon whereas the sixth Ar atom produces a five membered Ar ring which has no analog in the solid phase of argon. Nonmonotonic variations in sequential binding energies of the Ar atoms are rationalized in terms of variations in the Ar n /HCO + interaction energy and the differing number of Ar/Ar interactions involved. The HC stretching frequency (ν 1 ) is found to undergo a large redshift with the first Ar addition and then to slowly blueshift with subsequent Ar additions in agreement with the experimental results. The identities of two previously unassigned combination bands with ν 1 are established and the experimental assignment of a third combination band with ν 1 is confirmed.
The segmentation and homeotic gene network in early Drosophila development.

In 1980, Nijsslein-Volhard and Wieschaus reported the first results of a systematic screen of an entire metazoan genome for genes that control a particular set of patternforming events, the segmentation of the fruit fly embryo (Nusslein-Volhard and Wieschaus, 1980). In total, they described about twenty zygotically active genes (including some that had previously been found in other ways), which they assigned to three different classes: those in which mutations cause multiple adjacent segments to be missing from the embryo (“gap” genes); those in which mutations cause alternate segment-size units to be missing (“pair-rule” genes); and those in which mutations delete part of every segment and replace the deleted part with a mirror image of some of the remaining structure (“segment polarity” genes). Niisslein-Volhard and Wieschaus proposed that the three classes of genes act to subdivide the embryo into progressively smaller developmental units. A fourth class of genes, the homeotic genes, controls segment identity; mutations in these genes cause parts of the fly to follow an incorrect developmental pathway and form structures normally found in another segment. Many of the segmentation loci have now been cloned and analyzed at the molecular level. These studies, and accompanying genetic studies, have revealed several important features about the segmentation and homeotic gene network. First, there is a temporal order to the expression and function of the various classes of genes. Second, the genes are expressed in precise spatial patterns that are achieved through the regulatory influence of previously acting genes and interactions with other genes of the same class. Third, these precise spatial patterns provide sufficient complexity to assign unique identities to cells at each position along the anterior-posterior axis. Fourth, many genes act at multiple times and/or in multiple germ layers to control pattern formation. Finally, many of the gene products share protein motifs that indicate functional similarities and perhaps evolutionary relationships among the loci. Our purpose here is to discuss some of the central issues and ideas in this field, not to provide a comprehensive review of all that is known. (For further information, readers should consult Scott and O’Farrell, 1988; Gehring and Hiromi, 1986; Duncan, 1987; Akam, 1987; Peifer et al., 1987; Niisslein-Volhard et al., 1987.)
Phase-based scheduling and thread migration for heterogeneous multicore processors

Heterogeneous multicore processors (HMPs) can provide better performance and reduced energy consumption than homogeneous ones [3]. Differences between cores provide different processing capabilities for different applications; a dynamic scheduler can exploit these differences to maximize performance and minimize energy consumption [5, 6] by adapting to fine changes in programs behavior. This work proposes new fine-grained online HMP schedulers using program phase identification. However, exploiting fine-grained scheduling results in frequent thread migrations that can harm performance. OS context switching is time consuming (30−60µs [4]). To reduce context switching overhead, a context switching circuit that both accelerates thread switches among cores in HMPs and reduces switching cost within each core (multitasking) is introduced.
Myocardial fibroblast–matrix interactions and potential therapeutic targets

The cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic structure, adapting to physiological and pathological stresses placed on the myocardium. Deposition and organization of the matrix fall under the purview of cardiac fibroblasts. While often overlooked compared to myocytes, fibroblasts play a critical role in maintaining ECM homeostasis under normal conditions and in response to pathological stimuli assume an activated, myofibroblast phenotype associated with excessive collagen accumulation contributing to impaired cardiac function. Complete appreciation of fibroblast function is hampered by the lack of fibroblast-specific reagents and the heterogeneity of fibroblast precursors. This is further complicated by our ability to dissect the role of myofibroblasts versus fibroblasts in myocardial in remodeling. This review highlights critical points in the regulation of collagen deposition by fibroblasts, the current panel of molecular tools used to identify fibroblasts and the role of fibroblast-matrix interactions in fibroblast function and differentiation into the myofibroblast phenotype. The clinical potential of exploiting differences between fibroblasts and myofibroblasts and using them to target specific fibroblast populations is also discussed. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Myocyte-Fibroblast Signalling in Myocardium."
Hemorrhagic, myonecrotic, thrombotic and proteolytic activities of viper venoms.

Abstract Histolysis, thrombosis and proteolysis produced by venoms of vipers (Viperidae) from Asia, Europe and Africa were investigated. Some venoms showed hemorrhagic effects but not myonecrotic activity. Only Russell's viper from Thailand caused thrombosis. Four substrates were used to test for proteolytic activity of snake venoms. No direct relationship between myonecrosis, thrombosis, lethality and proteolysis were observed. However, hemorrhagic activity had a good correlation with proteolytic activity, especially with hemoglobin as a substrate.
Osseous healing in dog mandibles with and without decortication.

T he most widely accepted and frequently used technique for ~&cd correction of mandibular prognathism is the performance of bilateral vertical osteotomies of the mandibular rami. Caldwell and Letterman1 advocated starting the bony incision at the lowest point of the sigmoid notches inferiorly, passing over the lateral aspects of the mandibular foramina, and ending at the inferior border of the mandible. They decorticated the lateral aspect of the distal fragments and drilled holes t,hrough both cortices of the proximal fragments, a,fter which they lapped the proximal over the distal fragments and wired the segments together securely. Robinson, 2a 3 Hinds4 and Thomas5 describe similar procedures in which the bony cuts are made from the sigmoid notches down to hhe gonial angles and the fragments are overlapped without decortication. Osseous healing occurs with either method, but there is no evidence in the literature to demonstrate which leads to quicker healing. The opinions of oral surgeons regarding healing are derived from clinical experience. For this reason, it seemed desirable to make a direct comparison of the healing of mandibles approximated in the two ways described above.
A Tale of Two Situations: An Empirical Study of Behavior by Not-for-Profit Managerial Leaders

Not-for-profit organizations experience crises just as for-profit organizations do. However, the managerial leadership behavior required in a notfor-profit organization may differ from that required in a for-profit organization. Since the terrorist attack of September 11, the managerial leadership behavior required in a crisis has received a lot of attention. Many different people are providing managerial leaders with advice on how to act during a crisis. Although the advice may be useful, a great deal of it is based on anecdotal evidence or personal opinion, not empirical findings. In fact, there is little empirical research on the managerial leadership behavior required in a crisis situation. Yukl and Van Fleet (1982) did the seminal work on this topic, but their findings are limited to military participants, with combat as the crisis situation. More recently, Peterson and Van Fleet (2003) reported findings for the for-profit sector; however, this study is the first to examine the not-for-profit sector....
A Construct Validation of the Good and Good Measure of Social-Power Motivation

Evidence is reported for construct validation of the Good and Good measure of social-power motivation. Subjects (N = 121) completed the Good and Good social-power motivation scale. A questionnaire also developed for the present study requested certain biographical data as well as information believed by the present authors to be indicative of manifestations of the need to obtain social power. Of the 20 variables studied as a basis for construct validation of the Good and Good measure of social-power motivation, 15 demonstrated significant results in the expected direction. Of the two biographical variables, age emerged as a significant variable, but sex did not.
Victim Attractiveness and Perceptions of Responsiblity in an Ambiguous Rape Case

This study tests the main hypothesis that the physical attractiveness of the victim in a rape case affects people's judgments of her responsibility when the details of the case leave unclear whether or not a rape actually took place. Male and female subjects read a description of an alleged rape and were shown photographs of the alleged victim (attractive or unattractive) and defendant (attractive or unattractive). It was found that people tend to be biased against the attractive victim, but biased in favor of the attractive defendant. Results are discussed in terms of an exception to the “beautiful is good” stereotype and the difficulty of obtaining convictions in rape cases.
Gender and the relationship between marital-role quality and psychological distress. A study of women and men in dual-earner couples

In this paper, we estimate the association between marital-role quality and psychological distress in a sample of 300 full-time employed women and men in dual-earner couples. We control for such individual-level variables as age, education, occupational prestige, and job-role quality, and for such couple-level variables as length of marriage, parental status, and household income. We then compare the magnitude of this effect for men and for women and for parents and nonparents. Results indicate that in dual-earner couples marital-role quality is significantly negatively associated with psychological distress for women as well as men and that the magnitude of the effect depends little, if at all, on gender or on parental status. These findings challenge the view that marital experiences more significantly influence women's mental health states than men's. The results are discussed in the context of identity theory.
Lack of evidence that avian oncogenic viruses are infectious for humans: a review.

SUMMARY Chickens may be infected with three different oncogenic viruses: avian leukosis virus (ALV), reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV), and Marek's disease herpesvirus (MDV). Several epidemiological studies have suggested a link between these viruses and different types of cancer in people working in poultry processing plants and with multiple sclerosis. In this article, we analyze the epidemiological evidence that these viruses are causative agents for human cancer, followed by description of the relevant key characteristics of ALV, REV, and MDV. Finally, we discuss the biological evidence or lack thereof that avian tumor viruses are involved in the etiology of human cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS). The recent primary epidemiologic articles that we reviewed as examples were only hypothesis-generating studies examining massive numbers of risk factors for associations with various imprecise, non-viral-specific outcomes. The studies lacked precise evidence of exposure to the relevant viruses and the stat...
Curvefit and Diode: Windows graphing applications

A major advantage of Microsoft Windows is its graphical user interface (GUI). Through this interface, applications can implement interactive data collection, parameter specification, and data plotting functions in a fashion that is intuitive, requires little knowledge of computers and no arcane computer language interaction. This paper introduces and makes available two Microsoft Windows applications. Both applications provide a dialog to collect laboratory data and to store/retrieve files of data to/from disk. Both applications also provide data graphing facilities. Setting parameters necessary to draw a graph of the laboratory data is accomplished in an interactive dialog that is visually self-explanatory. The first application, "Curvefit" fits an n-degree polynomial (n=1 to 5) to the data points. It has been adopted for course use by one of our materials science professors. The second application, "Diode" fits an exponential curve through the data points. This program is intended to provide the exponential equation describing a semiconductor diode. It has been adopted for use in the basic electronics course and associated laboratory.
Mediastinal parathyroid cysts revisited

Abstract Background . A case of a functioning mediastinal cyst is presented. Methods . A comprehensive review of the literature found 93 patients in whom a parathyroid cyst or cysts extended into, or was completely contained within, the mediastinum. Including our patient, there were 46 men and 45 women, and the gender was not recorded in three. Results . The cysts were located in the anterosuperior region in 56 patients, in the middle region of the mediastinum in 26, and in the anterior, prevascular region in 12. Thirty-nine patients had functioning cysts associated with hyperparathyroidism of varying severity; seven patients presented with a hypercalcemic crisis. Local symptomatology consisted of a neck mass, respiratory distress, and occasional dysphagia or chest pain. Recurrent laryngeal nerve paresis was present in nine patients, and innominate vein compression or thrombosis was present in two. The cysts in all but four patients were treated by open surgical excision; two were treated by thoracoscopy, and two patients only had fine-needle aspiration of the cyst. The cyst was excised via a cervical approach in 67 patients and by a thoracotomy or median sternotomy or a variation thereof in 23. There was no operative mortality and morbidity was minimal. Conclusion . Surgical resection was successful in all and remains the treatment of choice for mediastinal parathyroid cysts.
Management of ascites in children

Ascites is the pathologic accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity. There are many causes of fetal, neonatal and pediatric ascites; however, chronic liver disease and subsequent cirrhosis remain the most common. The medical and surgical management of ascites in children is dependent on targeting the underlying etiology. Broad categories of management strategies include: sodium restriction, diuresis, paracentesis, intravenous albumin, prevention and treatment of infection, surgical and endovascular shunts and liver transplantation. This review updates and expands the discussion of the unique considerations regarding the management of cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic ascites in the pediatric patient.
Experiences and Wisdom Behind the Numbers: Qualitative Analysis of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s Research Prioritization Task Force Stakeholder Survey

Background The Research Prioritization Task Force of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention conducted a stakeholder survey including 716 respondents from 49 U.S. states and 18 foreign countries. Purpose To conduct a qualitative analysis on responses from individuals representing four main stakeholder groups: attempt and loss survivors, researchers, providers, and policy/administrators. This article focuses on a qualitative analysis of the early-round, open-ended responses collected in a modified online Delphi process, and, as an illustration of the research method, focuses on analysis of respondents' views of the role of life and emotional skills in suicide prevention. Methods Content analysis was performed using both inductive and deductive code and category development and systematic qualitative methods. After the inductive coding was completed, the same data set was re-coded using the 12 Aspirational Goals (AGs) identified by the Delphi process. Results Codes and thematic categories produced from the inductive coding process were, in some cases, very similar or identical to the 12 AGs (i.e., those dealing with risk and protective factors, provider training, preventing reattempts, and stigma). Other codes highlighted areas that were not identified as important in the Delphi process (e.g., cultural/social factors of suicide, substance use). Conclusions Qualitative and mixed-methods research are essential to the future of suicide prevention work. By design, qualitative research is explorative and appropriate for complex, culturally embedded social issues such as suicide. Such research can be used to generate hypotheses for testing and, as in this analysis, illuminate areas that would be missed in an approach that imposed predetermined categories on data.
Polymethylene Bis-Isothiuronium Salts. Antituberculous Activity

Several polymethylene 1- m -chlorophenyl- and 1-phenyl-bis-isothiuronium dihydrobromides were synthesized and examined for their in vitro antituberculous activity as well as their effect upon mice through aerosol inhalation studies.
The Performance of Active Coated Nanoparticles Based on Quantum-Dot Gain Media

Quantum-dots (QDs) provide an exciting option for the gain media incorporated in active coated nanoparticles (CNPs) because they possess large gain coefficients resulting from their extreme confinement effects. The optical properties of core/shell QDs can be tuned by changing the relative size of the core/shell, that is, by effectively changing its band gap structure. Similarly, the resonance of a CNP can be adjusted by changing the relative sizes of its layers. It is demonstrated here that by optimally locating the QDs inside a resonant CNP structure it is possible to greatly enhance the intrinsic amplifying behavior of the combined QD-CNP system.
Morphological and molecular evidence for hybridization and introgression in a willow (Salix) hybrid zone.

Hybrid zones provide biologists with the opportunity to examine genetic and ecological interactions between differentiated populations. Accurate identification of hybrid genealogies is considered a necessary prerequisite to understanding observed patterns of hybridization‐related phenomena. We analysed molecular and morphological data from individuals in a hybrid zone between two species of willows ( Salix sericea Marshall and S. eriocephala Michaux) and report the use of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), chloroplast DNA (cpDNA), and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers, as well as vegetative morphology and foliar chemistry data to identify individuals in terms of hybrid genealogy and to infer the direction and extent of backcrossing and introgression within the hybrid zone. A novel version of a maximum likelihood estimate approach (developed for this study) was used to calculate hybrid index scores from RAPD marker data; this method produced results similar to those obtained using traditional arithmetic methods. Distribution of rDNA, cpDNA, and chemistry data were examined within the graphical context of RAPD‐based hybrid index score histograms and principal component analyses (PCA) on RAPD and morphology data. Seven of the 21 plants classified as S. eriocephala in the field were possible introgressants. Another plant presented an unequivocal example of backcrossed S. sericea chemistry and RAPD markers. Inter‐ and intraspecific chloroplast diversity found within the hybrid zone suggests both historic introgression (perhaps in a glacial refugium), and contemporary hybridization. Patterns of inheritance and expression within the hybrid zone suggest that morphological characters are often not expressed in a simple additive fashion, and problems associated with both morphological and molecular data are considered.
Simultaneity between Trade and Conflict: Endogenous Instruments of Mass Destruction:

According to the classical liberal belief, trade, which economically benefits countries, creates ties binding the interests of countries and reduces conflict. While the vast majority of the empirical literature supports this view, recent research questions these findings by also considering the reciprocal relationship between trade and conflict. If conflict also influences trade, then trade is an endogenous right-hand side regressor and previous estimates which ignore this are inconsistent. This article determines when one uses appropriate instruments for the endogenous regressors that trade reduces conflict and conflict reduces trade. Failure to use such instruments results in inconsistent estimates and can lead to the spurious conclusion that trade increases conflict. The lesson is the use of inappropriate instruments can be worse than not using them at all.
Ultrasonic dislocation dynamics in Al (0.2 at.% Zn) after elastic loading☆

Abstract Ultrasonic resonance measurements at frequencies near 1 MHz were performed as a function of time and temperature on polycrystalline Al (0.2 at.% Zn) subjected to uniaxial loading below the plastic regime. The application of loads induced a decrease in the resonant frequency ( f ) and an increase in the damping ( Q − 1 ) that fully recovered nonexponentially with time when the load was released. The relative magnitude of the changes in f and Q −1 cannot be explained by a single anelastic relaxation process, considering that no significant frequency dependence was observed. The changes in f may be dominated by a purely elastic effect or a second anelastic effect that is relatively rapid. Analysis of the measurements of f after loading is performed under the assumption that the changes are elastic and associated with the diffusion of point defects to dislocations. Data at three temperatures are fit to a theoretical expression for the time-dependent number of point defects bound to a dislocation, yielding an activation energy for diffusion of 0.69 eV. This activation energy is in the range of values reported for vacancies in aluminum.
Keeping Pace in a Changing World

Based on American experience, this paper emphasizes the importance of science to past improvements in agricultural productivity and as a cost-reducing mechanism in making abundant supplies of feed ...
A hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin method for Stokes flow

Abstract In this paper, we introduce a hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin method for Stokes flow. The method is devised by using the discontinuous Galerkin methodology to discretize a velocity–pressure–gradient formulation of the Stokes system with appropriate choices of the numerical fluxes and by applying a hybridization technique to the resulting discretization. One of the main features of this approach is that it reduces the globally coupled unknowns to the numerical trace of the velocity and the mean of the pressure on the element boundaries, thereby leading to a significant reduction in the size of the resulting matrix. Moreover, by using an augmented lagrangian method, the globally coupled unknowns are further reduced to the numerical trace of the velocity only. Another important feature is that the approximations of the velocity, pressure, and gradient converge with the optimal order of k + 1 in the L 2 -norm, when polynomials of degree k ⩾ 0 are used to represent the approximate variables. Based on the optimal convergence of the HDG method, we apply an element-by-element postprocessing scheme to obtain a new approximate velocity, which converges with order k + 2 in the L 2 -norm for k ⩾ 1 . The postprocessing performed at the element level is less expensive than the solution procedure. Numerical results are provided to assess the performance of the method.
Moderate Alcohol Consumption and Breast Cancer in Women: From Epidemiology to Mechanisms and Interventions

Epidemiologic studies indicate that moderate alcohol consumption increases breast cancer risk in women. Understanding the mechanistic basis of this relationship has important implications for women's health and breast cancer prevention. In this commentary, we focus on some recent epidemiologic studies linking moderate alcohol consumption to breast cancer risk and place the results of those studies within the framework of our current understanding of the temporal and mechanistic basis of human carcinogenesis. This analysis supports the hypothesis that alcohol acts as a weak cumulative breast carcinogen and may also be a tumor promoter. We discuss the implications of these mechanisms for the prevention and treatment of alcohol-related breast cancer and present some considerations for future studies. Moderate alcohol consumption has been shown to benefit cardiovascular health and recently been associated with healthy aging. Therefore, a better understanding of how moderate alcohol consumption impacts breast cancer risk will allow women to make better informed decisions about the risks and benefits of alcohol consumption in the context of their overall health and at different stages of their life. Such mechanistic information is also important for the development of rational clinical interventions to reduce ethanol-related breast cancer mortality.
Architecturally Homogeneous Power-Performance Heterogeneous Multicore Systems

Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS), a widely adopted technique to ensure safe thermal characteristics while delivering superior energy efficiency, is rapidly becoming inefficient with technology scaling due to two critical factors: 1) inability to scale the supply voltage due to reliability concerns and 2) dynamic adaptations through DVFS cannot alter underlying power hungry circuit characteristics, designed for the nominal frequency. In this paper, we show that DVFS scaled circuits substantially lag in energy efficiency, by 22%-86%, compared to ground up designs for target frequency levels. We propose architecturally homogeneous power-performance heterogeneous multicore systems, a fundamentally alternate means to design energy efficient multicore systems. Using a system level computer-aided design (CAD) approach, we seamlessly integrate architecturally identical cores, designed for different voltage-frequency domains. We use a combination of standard cell library based CAD flow and full system architectural simulation to demonstrate 11%-22% improvement in energy efficiency using our design paradigm.
Symbolic, Indexical, and Iconic Communication with Domestic Dogs

Recent studies in canine communication are reviewed using Deacon’s framework of iconic, indexical, and symbolic reference. The presented analysis examines these studies using Deacon’s notion of interpretant, taking into account the evolutionary and perceptual capacities of the dog. By taking these dispositions and capacities into account, the conclusions that have been drawn in current studies of canine communication with respect to Deacon’s framework are critically evaluated. The analysis proceeds by investigating clusters of studies that align with symbolic, indexical, or iconic reference.
EFFECTS OF CYCLIC 3', 5'-ADENOSINE MONOPHOSPHATE ON MORPHINE TOLERANCE AND PHYSICAL DEPENDENCE

The administration of cyclic 3', 5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) antagonized the analgetic response of morphine in both nontolerant and tolerant mice and also accelerated the development of tolerance to and physical dependence on morphine induced by morphine pellet implantation. Tolerance enhancement by cAMP was evidenced by the increased amount of morphine to produce analgesia and acceleration in dependence by the decrease in the amount of naloxone to induce precipitated withdrawal jumping after cAMP pretreatment. Further evidence that cAMP accelerated dependence development on morphine was evidenced by the fact that cAMP increased the loss in body weight that occurred after abrupt morphine withdrawal. Cycloheximide prevented the accelerating effect of cAMP on tolerance and physical dependence development.
ISOLATING MECHANISMS IN SEABIRDS

In most species of birds, differences in plumage coloration or song structure act as isolating mechanisms. In seabirds, plumages are generally drab, and vocal repertoires are limited so that other phenotypic attributes must act as isolating mechanisms. One classic study of gulls suggests that the contrast between eye color and head color acts as a reproductive isolating mech- anism, but this idea has been largely refuted by widespread evidence of hybridization in gulls in the last 20 years. An examination of more than 100 species of seabirds that breed sympatrically with congeners reveals that species with bills and feet similar in color hybridize in all areas where they breed sympatrically. Species that have bills or feet of different colors either do not hybridize or they produce rare hybrids that are unable to obtain mates as adults. This suggests that bill and foot coloration act as the primary isolating mechanisms in all surface-nesting seabirds and some burrow nesters. It may be a general pattern in birds that foot color acts to supplement bill color in reproductive isolation and mate choice.
Synthesis, characterization, and computational studies of cycloparaphenylene dimers.

Two novel arene-bridged cycloparaphenylene dimers (1 and 2) were prepared using a functionalized precursor, bromo-substituted macrocycle 7. The preferred conformations of these dimeric structures were evaluated computationally in the solid state, as well as in the gas and solution phases. In the solid state, the trans configuration of 1 is preferred by 34 kcal/mol due to the denser crystal packing structure that is achieved. In contrast, in the gas phase and in solution, the cis conformation is favored by 7 kcal/mol (dimer 1) and 10 kcal/mol (dimer 2), with a cis to trans activation barrier of 20 kcal/mol. The stabilization seen in the cis conformations is attributed to the increased van der Waals interactions between the two cycloparaphenylene rings. These calculations indicate that the cis conformation is accessible in solution, which is promising for future efforts toward the synthesis of short carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via cycloparaphenylene monomers. In addition, the optoelectronic properties of these ...
A Pulsed Detonation Tube with a Converging-Diverging Nozzle Operating at Different Pressure Ratios

A pulsed detonation tube (PDT) is operated at initial pressures equal to and greater than 1 atm in order to evaluate the effect of these pressures on the relative gains achieved by a converging-diverging nozzle, while the ambient pressure is maintained at 1 atm. Local heat flux is measured and is determined to play a significant role in overall energy release during blowdown, especially when a converging -diverging nozzle in implemented. With the addition of the nozzle, a decrease in Isp is observed at low initial pressures (near 1 atm) , whereas the nozzle becomes beneficial at higher initial pressures (above 2 atm) .
Biodegradable Cell Transplantation Devices for Tissue Regeneration

Biodegradable polymers can be utilized as templates for cell transplantation and regeneration of metabolic organs and structural tissues. Candidate materials must be adhesive substrates for cells, promote cell growth and allow for retention of cell function. However, the processing requirements of such materials into highly porous three-dimensional structures with large surface per volume and an interconnecting pore network limits their potential application for tissue regeneration. A new processing technique was developed to produce uniform, three-dimensional cell transplantation devices of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid). The process involved the preparation of highly porous membranes by a solvent-casting and particulate-leaching technique followed by their lamination. The device structural and mechanical properties depended on those of their constituent membranes, as evaluated by mercury porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and thermomechanical analysis. Cells to be seeded into the devices were injected from catheters incorporated within their structure. In vitro studies with model suspensions of dyed microspheres allowed for visual evaluation of the internal pore structure of various layered devices. From these studies, numerous parameters of device design for cell seeding were determined including pore size and injection rate. The membrane lamination technique produced devices without interfaces between layers as determined by microsphere injection and scanning electron microscopy.
445 OVERLAP AND INTERACTION WITHIN THE SMAD 1, 5, AND 8 MOLECULAR SIGNALING PATHWAY.

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), members of the TGF-beta superfamily, are involved in cellular differentiation and a number of pathologic conditions. Mice deficient in BMP receptors Bmpr1a and Bmpr1b present phenotypically with severe chondrodysplasia. BMPs signal through Smad proteins, which play several essential roles during cellular development. It is known that signaling proteins Smad 1, 5, and 8 are the direct targets for BMPR1A and BMPR1B. Smad 1, 5, and 8 are phosphorylated by BMPRs, allowing interactions with Smad 4 and relocation to the nucleus, thus altering gene transcription and cellular maturation. Despite their importance, the function and interaction patterns of Smad proteins remain unclear. It is hypothesized that inter-Smad regulation and functional overlap exists between Smads 1, 5, and 8. We tested this hypothesis through the generation of mice lacking Smad1 or Smad8 singly or in combination using Cre-loxP technology and a floxed allele of Smad1. Genotypic and phenotypic analyses were used to examine Smad 1, 5, and 8 interactions. A PCR multiplex strategy was designed to genotype potential Smad mutants. After identification of informative litters, comparisons were made using histologic, skeletal preparation, and immunofluorescent staining techniques. In Smad1 and Smad8 mutants, skeletal preparations revealed essentially unaffected gross patterning. This phenotype suggests that either there is extensive functional redundancy, non-Smad signaling, based on comparison with Bmpr1a/Bmpr1b knockout phenotypes. Histologic slides revealed subtle disorganization within the growth plates of Smad1CKO; Smad8 +/{1338} (CKO = cartilage-specific knockout) mice that was not apparent in Smad1CKO or Smad8−/− mice, demonstrating a role for these Smads in the growth plate, and functional redundancy. Immunofluorescence highlighted comparable levels of phospho-Smad 1, 5, and 8 staining in Smad1CKO; Smad8+/− mice and WT littermates. This suggests compensatory up-regulation of Smad 5/8 proteins in the absence of Smad 1. Taken together, our results support roles for Smads in transducing BMP signaling in the growth plate and suggest a high degree of functional redundancy among the members of the Smad 1, 5, 8 subgroup.
Postpartum anxiety and breast feeding.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the relationship between postpartum anxiety and lactation experience, knowledge, confidence and performance. STUDY DESIGN State anxiety was measured among breast-feeding women by the State Trait Anxiety Inventory before hospital discharge and at 1 month postpartum. Breast-feeding experience and knowledge were assessed by focused questions and confidence by the Breastfeeding Confidence Scale. Breast-feeding performance measures included breast-feeding immediately after delivery; formula supplementation in the hospital; full, exclusive breast-feeding; and breast-feeding termination at 1 month postpartum. RESULTS Predischarge anxiety correlated inversely with breast-feeding confidence (r [339] = -0.27, p = 0.000) but not with experience or knowledge. As compared to low-anxiety mothers, those with high anxiety were less likely to breast-feed after delivery (53.0% vs. 65.1%, p = 0.049) and more likely to give their infants formula (43.9% vs. 29.1%, p = 0.022). In logistic regression models adjusting for demographic and social factors, high-anxiety mothers were less likely to practice full, exclusive breast-feeding (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI 0.20, 0.74; p < 0.005) and more likely to have terminated breastfeeding at 1 month (AOR = 4.40; 95% CI 1.70, 11.33; p < 0.005). CONCLUSION Postpartum anxiety may be associated with reduced breast-feeding confidence and lactation performance. Awareness of this association may be helpful in identifying women at risk for lactation failure and targeting efforts to promote breast-feeding.
Afterword: Labour, Insecurity and Violence in South Africa

In this special issue of the Journal of Southern African Studies, the editors invite us to consider the long, historically mediated relationship of labour, insecurity, and violence in South Africa....
Sexual and Reproductive Health

Individuals with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities reproductively mature at the same rate as the general population. However, they often lag far behind their peers in access to education about the emotional, social, and medical challenges that accompany the physical changes of the emerging adult. By the time a young adult with a disability or chronic condition reaches an internist, preventative reproductive health has largely been rationalized as not necessary or simply forgotten. Access to education and reproductive health services is essential for the development of a sense of self; establishing fulfilling physical and emotional relationships; and protection from abuse and poor outcomes that can be anticipated and prevented. The approach to a patient’s sexuality and reproductive health needs varies across disabilities and chronic conditions and may require the support of physicians in other specialties. Understanding that each patient is a sexual being who requires attention to his or her sexuality and reproductive health needs will optimize the mental health, safety, and general health outcomes across the spectrum of physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities.
Integrating Nurse Practitioners Into Intensive Care Units

As demand for nurse practitioners in all types of intensive care units continues to increase, ensuring successful integration of these nurses into adult and pediatric general and specialty intensive care units poses several challenges. Adding nurse practitioners requires strategic planning to define critical aspects of the care delivery model before the practitioners are hired, develop a comprehensive program for integrating and training these nurses, and create a plan for implementing the program. Key strategies to ensure successful integration include defining and implementing the role of nurse practitioners, providing options for orientation, and supporting and training novice nurse practitioners. Understanding the importance of appropriate role utilization, the depth of knowledge and skill expected of nurse practitioners working in intensive care units, the need for a comprehensive training program, and a commitment to continued professional development beyond orientation are necessary to fully realize the contributions of these nurses in critical care.