cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Subcellular Modeling of PKA Activation and cAMP Diffusion in Localized Microdomains of Adult Cardiomyocytes

The beta adrenergic pathway in cardiomyocytes activates protein kinase A (PKA) to phosphoregulate several Ca2+ handling proteins, including the L-type Ca channel, ryanodine receptor, and sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) (via phospholamban), resulting in inotropic, lusitropic and chronotropic responses. However, based on PKA kinetics measured in vitro, almost all PKA should be activated by basal concentrations of cAMP. Several recent studies have postulated a role for local degradation of cAMP by phosphodiesterases (PDE) in maintaining microdomains with lower cAMP concentrations. However, the degradation rate of cAMP is slow compared with the rate of cytosolic diffusion, suggesting that local clustering of PDE is insufficient to maintain the cAMP microdomains alone. In this study, Virtual Cell, a finite volume solver, was used to create 3D diffusional models that were then validated with in vitro FRET experiments to probe other potential mechanisms of PKA's compartmentalized response. We examined the effects of structural obstruction, cAMP buffering by exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC), PKA isoform localization, ion gradients, and physical coupling between PKA and PDE, mediated by A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP). Our results suggest that structural obstructions, obtained from cryo-TEM images, are insufficient to decrease the rate of diffusion of cAMP. However, PKA isoform localization around the SERCA pumps is essential in maintaining phosphoregulation. Furthermore, AKAP complexes and basal ion concentrations also contribute to localized control of PKA. These in vitro and in silico experiments help us understand how microdomains in adult cardiomyocytes are maintained.
Purity−Activity Relationships of Natural Products: The Case of Anti-TB Active Ursolic Acid

The present study explores the variability of biological responses from the perspective of sample purity and introduces the concept of purity−activity relationships (PARs) in natural product research. The abundant plant triterpene ursolic acid (1) was selected as an exemplary natural product due to the overwhelming number yet inconsistent nature of its approximate 120 reported biological activities, which include anti-TB potential. Nine different samples of ursolic acid with purity certifications were obtained, and their purity was independently assessed by means of quantitative 1H NMR (qHNMR). Biological evaluation consisted of determining MICs against two strains of virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis and IC50 values in Vero cells. Ab initio structure elucidation provided unequivocal structural confirmation and included an extensive 1H NMR spin system analysis, determination of nearly all J couplings and the complete NOE pattern, and led to the revision of earlier reports. As a net result, a sigmoid PAR...
The reactions Rh103(p,d)Rh102 and Rh103(p,t)Rh101 at 16.8 MeV

Abstract The reactions Rh103(p,d)Rh102 and Rh103(p,t)Rh101 have been investigated using 16.8 MeV protons. The following Q values were measured: for Rh103(p,d)Rh102 Q = −7.144±0.016 MeV; for Rh103(p,t)Rh101 Q = −8.275±0.017 MeV. Excited levels of Rh101 were observed at 331, 869, 1041 and 1512 keV. The 331 keV level may be the 4.5 d isomer of Rh101. Excited levels of Rh102 were observed at 76, 161, 291, 380, 491, 544, 680, 726, 1200, 1670 and 1840 keV. Angular distributions were measured for most of the levels; and, from the comparison of these distributions with distored-wave Born approximation calculations and with each other, conclusions were drawn about the spin, parity and spectroscopic factors of some of the levels.
Profound hypertriglyceridemia and weight gain in the first week following initiation of olanzapine: a case report with implications for lipid monitoring guidelines

Cases of severe hypertriglyceridemia related to olanzapine began appearing more than a decade ago. Meyer documented a case series in 2001, with a time to peak elevation that ranged from 2 to 23.5 months. 1 A significant number of prospective trials followed and confirmed the risk of hypertriglyceridemia in patients on certain atypical antipsychotics, especially those in the dibenzodiazepine class. 2‐5 Though there are several prior studies that document an increase in triglycerides within the first month of atypical antipsychotic treatment, 6,7 consensus guidelines often suggest follow-up lipid monitoring no sooner than 12 weeks after medication initiation. 8
Imaging spread-F structures using GPS observations at Alcântara, Brazil

During October 1994, a dual-frequency GPS receiver was operated in Alcântara, Brazil, at the same site where the Cornell University Portable Radar Interferometer (CUPRI) was performing spread-F measurements for an ongoing rocket campaign. We present data for two nights during which several spread-F plumes drifted through the field-of-view of CUPRI. Fluctuations in the total electron content (TEC) measured with the GPS receiver were correlated with those plumes. We define a “roughness” measure from a specialized high frequency filter. Plots of “roughness” in a magnetic longitude versus time space show initially low activity followed by regions of dramatic localized onsets and a slower subsequent decline. Features in the roughness image are well-correlated with plumes in the CUPRI backscatter power map.
Capacity bounds and power allocation for underwater acoustic relay channels with ISI

Underwater acoustics channels suffer from a variety of effects including frequency selective fading, range dependent effective bandwidth and time-variation[1]. Herein, throughput capacity bounds and associated power allocation schemes for an underwater acoustic relay network are examined. Prior work on wireless radio channels have shown that channels with such characteristics are non-degraded. The implication of non-degradedness is that, typically, capacity cannot be evaluated exactly. Prior work on the capacity of degraded relay channels with ISI [2] is utilized to develop lower and upper bounds on the throughput capacity. Capacity bounds for channel state information (CSI) only at the receiver and CSI at both transmitter and receiver are studied. Practical constraints on transmission/reception duplexing at the relay node are also taken into account while deriving bounds. Achievability schemes are compared with the rates achievable via direct transmission and two hop communication to conclude that coopeartive relaying increase the rates significantly.
Crack Growth Resistance of Random Fiber Composites

Crack growth resistance of a random glass fiber composite has been studied by applying the concepts of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics. The crack growth resistance curves (R-curves) for epoxy and polyester composites have been developed to study the total fracture behavior of these composites. It is shown that the R-curve approach is suitable for these type of materials. An attempt has been made to use the information from the R-curves to predict the fracture strength of plate specimens with a hole at the center and subjected to tensile loading.
Somatic/Embodied Knowledge Representation: A Challenge

Recent brain studies revealed brain and body cannot be separated. Further it revealed blood and muscles play an important role in our information processing. Bike riding is known as a typical example of tacit knowledge. Although there are efforts on how we can change such tacit or somatic/embodied knowledge of ours as this example into explicit one, we have been not so successful. From our past two series of experiments about detection of emotion from face and about calligraphy, we learned acceleration plays a crucial role. This paper attempts to represent somatic/knowledge representation as patterns of position and acceleration. This is still a preliminary study but it may lead us to another way of representing our tacit knowledge and thus we may develop another way of transferring tacit knowledge such as skills, bike riding, etc in the form of patterns of position and acceleration. Mechanical engineering is a tangible engineering. Therefore the author would like to emphasize the importance of exploring how we can represent our somatic/embodied knowledge. This is a very much preliminary step toward that goal.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
ENCOURAGING COMMUNITY DIALOG: APPROACH, PROMISE, AND TENSIONS

There has been growing interest in recent years in what might be termed “community dialogs,” or techniques for engaging broad-based discussions of issues within particular communities. The purpose of this article is to survey and assess this movement based on prior research. We first contrast traditional citizen involvement in public planning as a method of pursing community dialogs with the newer, collaborative public decision making approaches. The article then examines the benefits of community dialogs and the tensions which arise from their pursuit. We conclude by offering an assessment of how we might think about these techniques in the future.
Separation of yeast chromosome-sized DNAs by pulsed field gradient gel electrophoresis

A new type of gel electrophoresis separates DNA molecules up to 2000 kb with resolutions exceeding the logarithmic molecular weight dependence of conventional electrophoresis. The technique uses 1.5% agarose, 10 to 20 micrograms of DNA per well, and low ionic strength buffers. It employs alternately pulsed, perpendicularly oriented electrical fields, at least one of which is inhomogeneous. The duration of the applied electrical pulses is varied from 1 sec to 90 sec to achieve optimal separations for DNAs with sizes from 30 to 2000 kb. This pulsed field gradient gel electrophoresis fractionates intact S. cerevisiae chromosomal DNA, producing a molecular karyotype that greatly facilitates the assignment of genes to yeast chromosomes. Each yeast chromosome consists of a single piece of DNA; the chromosome sizes are consistent with the genetic linkage map. We also describe a general method for preparing spheroplasts, and cell lysates, without significant chromosomal DNA breakage.
Sensitivity of North American Isolates of Phytophthora erythroseptica and Pythium ultimum to Mefenoxam (Metalaxyl)

A 4-year study (1997 to 2000) was conducted to determine the sensitivities of the potato tuber rot pathogens, Phytophthora erythroseptica and Pythium ultimum, to mefenoxam (metalaxyl). A total of 2,277 tubers showing symptoms of "water rot" were collected from 16 states and 2 Canadian provinces. From these, 849 isolates of P. erythroseptica and 213 isolates of P. ultimum were obtained, and 805 and 190 isolates, respectively, were tested for their ability to grow on V8 medium amended at 0.01 to 100 μg/ml with fungicide. Isolates ranged widely in their responses to mefenoxam. The presence of resistant isolates (EC50 > 100 μg ml-1) of P. erythroseptica in the potato producing areas of Maine was confirmed. The presence of P. erythroseptica isolates in Idaho and Minnesota resistant to mefenoxam is reported for the first time. The proportion of P. erythroseptica isolates resistant to mefenoxam varied from 2.9 to 36.2% between 1997 and 2000. The proportion of resistant P. ultimum isolates represented only a small proportion of the isolates tested (3.7%). A single resistant P. ultimum isolate was recovered from Washington, whereas most of the resistant isolates obtained (5 of 7) were collected in Minnesota during the final year of the study. This is the first report of resistance in P. ultimum pathogenic to potato tubers. These observations suggest that pink rot and leak could become significant problems in the future, particularly in those areas where resistance has been detected. Our results have implications for the effective management of water rot. Monitoring the sensitivity of the pathogen population to mefenoxam in all production areas should be considered and integrated as a part of the overall disease management strategy.
Methodology for partitioning poultry producers into recommendation domains.

Abstract This study simulated broiler grower conditions by incorporating environmental variation into the research design. This provided a means for partitioning growers into homogeneous production environments (recommendation domains). Also, it enabled a more accurate evaluation of experimental feed treatments and resulted in feeding recommendations appropriate to specific groups of broiler growers. Of all the variables in the environmental matrix, house temperature was the most important due to its effect on feed intake and thus weight gain. The simulation study was conducted in a broiler house with 32 pens (research domain). Each environment was a randomized complete block of four feed treatments. Broiler gain response to feed ingredients (milo and peanut meal) was used to evaluate the four isocaloric protein treatments fed in pellet form. Modified stability analysis was used to visualize the differences in the broiler gain response to treatments in ‘good’, ‘moderate’ and ‘poor’ environments, and to make feeding recommendations specific to environment or research domain. The ability to partition a broiler research domain was demonstrated and indicates that research conducted by simulating a well-characterized production system can be a practical approach to technology generation.
Predictors of Cost and Clinical Outcomes of Percutaneous Nephrostolithotomy

Purpose: There is a paucity of information on the association of preoperative parameters with surgical outcomes and cost. We identified preoperative predictors of direct cost and examined the association of these factors with the perioperative outcomes of percutaneous nephrostolithotomy.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the records of 200 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous nephrostolithotomy at our hospital from September 2005 to May 2007. Complete cost and clinical information were available on 179 patients (89.5%). Patient and stone characteristics, and perioperative outcomes were recorded. Direct and component costs, including room and board, laboratory, pharmacy, radiology, operating room, surgical supplies, anesthesia and recovery room, were obtained from our hospital billing department. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to identify preoperative predictors of cost. We evaluated the association of independent predictors of cost with perioperative outco...
How do American undergraduates view suicide bombers

69 American undergraduates (M(age) = 22.1 yr., SD = 5.9) viewed suicide bombers and guerilla fighters who kill civilians more negatively than they view protest suicide and guerilla fighters who kill soldiers.
Molecular and structural analysis of viscoelastic properties

Elasticity imaging is emerging as an important tool for breast cancer detection and monitoring of treatment. Viscoelastic image contrast in breast lesions is generated by disease specific processes that modify the molecular structure of connective tissues. We showed previously that gelatin hydrogels exhibit mechanical behavior similar to native collagen found in breast tissue and therefore are suitable as phantoms for elasticity imaging. This paper summarizes our study of the viscoelastic properties of hydrogels designed to discover molecular-scale sources of elasticity image contrast.
Typical costs of seismic rehabilitation of existing buildings

This paper presents the methodology used in a FEMA-funded study to develop a tool for structural engineers and decision makers to use to make estimates for the typical costs for seismic rehabilitation of existing buildings. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cone array of Fourier lenses for contouring applications

An application of Fourier transform lenses to surface topography detection is investigated. The field is illuminated in parallel using an array of three different wavelength laser diodes, and relative phase alteration is read out between cross-correlated electronic pixels. Diffraction theory of image formation is used to interpret the modulation in contrast. Speckle sensitivity to wavelength provides the basic technique for noise filtering.
Changes in mental status in older adults with four days of hospitalization.

The purpose of this study was to describe changes that occur in mental status in older adults during 4 days of hospitalization in an acute-care setting. It was hypothesized that elderly patients would experience significant changes in all components of mental status (i.e., level of consciousness, orientation, attention/concentration, memory, higher cognitive functions) during this period of time. A sample of 25 individuals ranging in age from 65 to 89 years was obtained from the medical and surgical units of an acute-care hospital. Each individual's mental status was evaluated twice using a mental status examination designed for the study. The first assessment was conducted on the afternoon of admission day, and the second was completed on the fourth hospital day. Statistically significant changes in three components of mental status were found: disorientation increased, level of consciousness declined, and memory improved. The significance of these findings for nursing is discussed.
Recent Advances in Cryogenic Engineering

Dr. Jacobs is Chief of the Cryogenic Equipment Section, National Bureau of Standards. He received his B.S. from the University of California and his M.S. from MIT, both in Mechanical Engineering, and his Ph.D. in Applied Science from Harvard. The author has taught in the Mechanical Engineering Department at MIT where he did research in cryogenic engineering. Since 1951, he has been at the Cryogenic Engineering Laboratory working on problems of handling, storage and transportation of liquefied gases; his work includes research on two-phase fluid flow, pumping and cavitation, boiling heat transfer, flow measurement, pressurization and stratification, insulation and equipment optimization.
Value of Information in Conflictual Situations Two Simple Examples

In conflictual situations where two (or more) rational and intelligent players make interdependent decisions to optimize their own payoffs, decisions are often made on the basis of some critical information as well as on what each player anticipates that the other player(s) will do. How much is the critical information worth to a particular player? How much more is the same information worth to the player if he obtains the information covertly without the other player(s) knowing that he has the information? Put in another way, how much should a player be willing to offer as a maximum price to buy the critical information (or for the other player be willing to spend to safeguard the confidentiality of the same information)? How much would one player be willing to spend to find out whether the other player has the information or not? These questions are in the realm of information value theory, which, however, has not been developed in a form to answer these questions related to conflictual situations. The purpose of this paper is to extend information value theory so that such questions can be answered, at least in relatively simple cases.
Oxidation by rat brain of N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) coupled to tetrazolium nitro blue.

Abstract The present study shows that the dehydrogenation of N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) can be coupled to tetrazolium nitro blue (TNB), a substance used as electron acceptor in may dehydrogenase reactions. The MPTP-TNB reductase system has an apparent K m value and inhibitor sensitivity similar to those of monoamine oxidase (MAO) type B. MPTP oxidation in the brain may very well be mediated by MAO-B.
Aerosol studies by light scattering. VII. Preparation and particle-size distribution of linolenic acid aerosols

Abstract Linolenic acid aerosols of narrow size distribution are generated by condensation of vapor upon NaCl and AgCl nuclei in a helium gas stream. The particle-size distribution is determined by analysis of the angular distribution of the polarization ratio of the scattered light. In addition, the particle concentration is obtained from the absolute value of the Rayleigh ratio. These aerosol particles can be solidified for electron microscopic observation with OsO 4 , and this has permitted a comparison of the light-scattering results with electron microscopy. Also, the determination of particle concentration from measurement of the Rayleigh ratio has been compared with direct collection by thermal precipitation and filtration and subsequent acidimetric titration. The performance of the aerosol generator has been studied with respect to operating conditions such as flow rate, boiler temperature, nuclei furnace temperature, and nuclei concentration.
Plasmodium parasite proteins and the infected erythrocyte

Erythrocyte modification by malaria proteins is linked to both disease severity and infection. In this issue of Trends in Parasitology , Templeton and Deitsch, and Horrocks and Muhia discuss recent work identifying a host-targeting (HT) signal on malaria proteins. This signal predicts a secretome of 300–400 effectors for the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum , vastly expanding the number of potential vaccine and drug targets. The HT signal seems to be distinct from known cellular transport signals, which suggests that it might be a novel eukaryotic secretion signal.
THE PHYSIOLOGY OF THE IMMEDIATE REACTION OF ANAPHYLAXIS IN THE GUINEA-PIG

1. By an immediate anaphylactic reaction we mean the chain of symptoms which occur in highly sensitized guinea-pigs shortly after an intravenous or intracardiac injection of the toxic dose and usually end in death. 2. Immediate anaphylactic death occurs three to five minutes after the toxic injection in highly sensitized guinea-pigs. 3. Immediate anaphylactic death in guinea-pigs is caused by asphyxia; cessation of respiration is secondary to this asphyxia. 4. This asphyxia is apparently produced by a tetanic contraction of the smooth muscles of the bronchioles, which occludes their lumen gradually, so that finally no air enters or leaves the lung, in spite of violent respiratory efforts; the animal is strangulated. 5. The stage of complete broncho-constriction is preceded by a short broncho-dilatation, if the bronchioles have been in a state of tonus previous to the injection of the toxic dose. 6. Anatomically, the lungs of these guinea-pigs are typical and may be used as an indicator of the immediate anaphylactic state when the animal has been immobilized by curarin or by pithing. 7. The lungs of a guinea-pig killed by immediate anaphylaxis are distended and in an inspiratory position so that the diaphragm is pushed down; no marked collapse occurs when the chest is opened and when the lungs are excised in toto; their color is a pale bluish-pink ; the surfaces and borders are smooth; no foam is in the trachea or large bronchi; pieces of lung cut off do not collapse, float lightly on water, and contain a good amount of air and little fluid which escapes on pressure. The blood in the lungs and heart is black when the autopsy is made at once after the cessation of respiration. 8. Section of the vagi in the neck, or curarin (artificial respiration) exerts no appreciable effect on the development of immediate anaphylaxis. 9. This immobilization of the lungs, which is due to a broncho-constriction, is of peripheral origin, for destruction of the spinal cord and medulla affects in no appreciable way the promptness and extent of the typical lung response to the injection of the toxic dose. Artificial respiration is, of course, necessary. At the present time we do not care to state whether the toxic dose exerts its effects upon the bronchial muscles alone or upon the vagus motor endings or upon both structures. 10. The blood pressure in immediate anaphylaxis first shows a rise, which may be considerable; a short maintenance of this high level and then a gradual drop to IO to 20 millimeters of mercury and even less, within ten minutes after injection of the toxic dose. 11. Shortly after injection of the toxic dose a heart block develops, so that auricles and ventricles may beat in a 3:I rhythm; the block is probably due to asphyxia. 12. The cardiac vagus gradually loses its irritability after injection of the toxic dose. 13. Cooling of the guinea-pig delays the reaction to the toxic injection.
Characterizing near-infrared spectroscopy responses to forearm post-occlusive reactive hyperemia in healthy subjects

During post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) there is a temporary increase in the total hemoglobin + myoglobin (T[Hb+Mb]) signal as measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). This transient increase predicts differences in the kinetic responses of deoxy[Hb+Mb] and oxy[Hb+Mb] during PORH. The purpose of this study was to determine whether sigmoidal (Gompertz or logistic) or exponential functions better describe these response curves during PORH. The fit of the three functions (exponential, Gompertz and logistic) to the NIRS responses, as determined from residual sum of squares, was compared using repeated measures ANOVA on Ranks. The Gompertz function provided a better fit to the oxy[Hb+Mb] response curve than did either the exponential or logistic function (χ 2 = 21.7, df = 2, p < 0.001). The logistic function provided a better fit for the deoxy[Hb+Mb] response (χ 2 = 22.9, df = 2, p 0.05 for all comparisons). These results suggest that during PORH distinct sigmoidal mathematical functions best describe the responses of the oxy[Hb+Mb] (Gompertz) and deoxy[Hb+Mb] (logistic) as measured by NIRS. Further, differences in both the kinetic and amplitude aspects for the responses of oxy[Hb+Mb] and deoxy[Hb+Mb] predict the observed transient change in T[Hb+Mb]. Our methods provide a technique to evaluate and quantify NIRS responses during PORH, which may have clinical utility.
The Relation of Interracial Relationships to Intimate Partner Violence by College Students

This study explores the likelihood of physical violence perpetration against an intimate partner in same-race relationships in comparison with those in interracial relationships. The sample consists of 1,174 students at four American universities and one Canadian university. RESULTS indicate little difference between racial groups in the percent who reported minor assaults but large differences in severe assaults. Students in interracial relationships did not report more intimate partner violence than same-race couples when controlling for demographic variables. Language: en
Abstract 2964: YB-1 expression in early hematopoiesis and leukemic cells

Hematopoietic transcription factors play a critical role in directing the commitment and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) along a particular lineage. Y box protein (YB-1), a cold shock family protein is a transcription factor which is widely expressed throughout development and has been implicated as a cell survival factor that regulates transcription and translation. YB-1 is known to be involved in erythroid cell development by interacting with Globin Transcription Factor (GATA); this study aims to investigate YB-1 expression in normal hematopoietic differentiation and leukemia. EML-clone 1 cells, a murine hematopoietic stem cell line, was used as a model for looking at the expression of YB-1 during myeloid differentiation by western blotting and quantitative RT-PCR. Fluorescence activated cell sorting was conducted to isolate lineage——/IL-7R—/c-kit+/Sca1+ (LKS) hematopoietic stem, lineage——/IL-7R—/c-kit+/Sca1— myeloid progenitor cells and granulocytes from mouse bone marrow to assess the YB-1 expression in vivo. YB-1 protein levels were analyzed in a panel of myeloid leukemic cell lines by immunoblotting. YB-1 mRNA and protein levels were high in the EML cells but the expression goes down in RA/IL-3 treated EML-clone 1 cells (myeloid progenitors) and was even more dramatically down-regulated in GM-CSF treated EML cells during the course of myeloid differentiation. Interestingly, LKS (enriched fraction of hematopoietic stem cells) and myeloid progenitor cells showed high level of YB-1 expression as compared to the differentiated cells like granulocytes. Further, we observed that YB-1 protein was expressed in several myeloid leukemic cell lines blocked at different stages of myeloid development. Thus, our data suggest that YB-1 is down-regulated during myeloid differentiation and it might be involved in hematopoietic differentiation. Aberrant YB-1 expression could be a contributing factor in the development of leukemia thus making it an excellent molecular target for therapy in myeloproliferative disorders and leukemia. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2964.
Amplitude differences, spatial assimilation, and integrated feedback in bimanual coordination

The purpose of the experiment was to determine the influence of Lissajous feedback on 1:1 bimanual coordination patterns (0°, 90°, and 180° phase lags) when the movement amplitudes of the two limbs were different (30°, 60°). The present data supports the notion that the lead–lag relationship as well as amplitude assimilation observed in the literature can be partially attributed to the visual-perceptual factors present in the testing environment. When participants are provided integrated feedback in the form of Lissajous plots much of the lead–lag and amplitude assimilation effects were eliminated, and relative phase error and variability were also greatly reduced after only 3 min of practice under each condition.
Unintended Birth Among Hispanic Women in Texas: A Descriptive Analysis

Unintended birth is associated with adverse maternal and infant outcomes. In 2006, US Hispanics had the highest unintended birth rate (45 births/1,000 women) compared to other groups. One-fifth of US Hispanic women reside in Texas, yet unintended birth among Texas Hispanics has not been studied. The goal of this study was to describe the prevalence and characteristics of unintended birth in this population. Using data from Hispanic participants in the Texas Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System 2009–2010, we studied unintended birth in relation to demographic, lifestyle and partner characteristics. Adjusted prevalence odds ratios (POR) were computed for each characteristic and the analysis was stratified by maternal nativity (US vs foreign born). The weighted proportion of unintended birth was 49.5 % (CI = 45.9–52.6). In adjusted analyses, women aged 12–19 had a higher prevalence of unintended birth compared to ≥20 years (POR = 2.1, CI = 1.3–3.7). Unmarried (POR = 1.5, CI = 1.1–2.1), uninsured (POR = 1.7, CI = 1.2–2.3), and US-born (POR = 1.6, CI = 1.0–2.6) women had higher prevalence compared to married, insured and foreign-born women, respectively. Among US-born Hispanic women, higher prevalence of unintended birth was associated with being young, unmarried and experiencing psychological stressors within 12 months of giving birth; among foreign-born Hispanic women, higher prevalence was associated with lack of insurance. Efforts to reduce unintended birth in Texas might focus on young, single, uninsured and US-born Hispanic women. Analyses of other pre-pregnancy factors and health outcomes among Texas Hispanics could increase understanding of the differences we observed in unintended birth between US and foreign-born Hispanics.
A reexamination of the Nrmp matching algorithm. National Resident Matching Program

Most graduating medical students in the United States find their first professional appointments through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). This service receives rank-order lists of preferences from students and from hospitals, and then generates final assignments of students to hospitals through the use of a specific computerized matching algorithm. The author uses recent findings from the mathematics and economics literatures to demonstrate three difficulties with the NRMP's matching algorithm and the official descriptions thereof. First, the algorithm favors hospitals over students, a feature known to the NRMP since at least 1976, but, in the author's opinion, not made clear in NRMP literature for students. Second, the author argues that the NRMP's justification that its algorithm mimics orderly, noncentralized admission processes is not correct. Institutions operating under non-centralized procedures must typically make more initial offers than there are positions, in the realization that some fraction of their offers will be declined. This arrangement enlarges the choices available to many applicants, and thereby benefits them, whereas the NRMP's algorithm unrealistically assumes that no institution would ever send out any extra offers. Third, the NRMP's algorithm contains incentives for students to misrepresent their true preferences when constructing their rank-order lists. This feature is a substantial disadvantage of the current algorithm and is incorrectly described in literature distributed to students and in published articles from the NRMP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The fine structure of limb tissues of the adult newt, Diemictylus viridescens.

The limb tissues of the adult newt investigated for their fine structure include epidermis, subcutaneous glands, dermis, striated muscle, peripheral nerves and blood vessels. This survey complements and extends previous observations, emphasizing intercellular junctions, and the ubiquitous “glycocalyx” (= polysaccharide-protein lamella, around cells and adjacent to epithelia). Our survey touches on the characteristic tonofilaments, intercellular desmosomes and basal hemidesmosomes of the epidermis. The subcutaneous glands consist of secretory cells with a granular product, and myoepithelial cells; intercellular desmosomes are present. The adepidermal reticulum of collagen fibrils reveals periodic regions of intersecting fibrils ( = nodules), and fibril continuity with the underlying dermis: a striking feature is the adipose tissue closely applied to the adepidermal reticulum. The limb striated muscle displays typical banded myofibrils, and a triad system with centrotubules in the I-band close to the Z-band: terminal sacs of sarcoplasmic reticulum complete the triad system. A particularly prominent glycocalyx is applied to the surface of the sarcolemma. The peripheral nerves of the limb possess connective tissue sheaths with prominent vesiculation of the cell membranes, and an occasional intercellular desmosomal junction. Blood vessels typically have endothelial cells with prominently vesiculated plasma membranes. This investigation serves as the basis for recognizing the fine structure of tissue responses to trauma, their repair, and regeneration.
Methyl β-(Benzotriazol-l-yl) vinyl Ketone: A New p-Acetylvinyl Cation Equivalent

Abstract A simple and efficient two-step approach to methyl β-(benzotriazol-1-yl)vinyl ketone 7 is described. The synthetic utility of compound 7 has been demonstrated by nucleophilic substitutions of the benzotriazolyl group with a range of nucleophiles. Thus, methyl β-(benzotriazol-1-yl)vinyl ketone provides a new β-acetylvinyl cation equivalent.
A Preliminary Investigation of Two Procedures for Setting Examination Standards

Two standard setting procedures were employed by two groups of judges to set pass-fail levels for comparable samples of a nationally administered examination. These procedures were both designed to...
Epithelial-matrix interactions : laminin downregulates enterocyte EGF receptor and IGF-I receptor expression.

Intestinal crypt cells continuously proliferate to yield functional villus cells which terminally differentiate prior to sloughing into the intestinal lumen. Growth factors and extracellular matrix have been shown to regulate this process. To investigate how these effectors may interact, Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) receptor and Insulin-like Growth Factor-I (IGF-I) receptor expression was evaluated in IEC-6 cells incubated on laminin or collagen I. EGF receptor and IGF-I receptor expression were decreased in cells grown on laminin. The data suggest that the mechanism by which laminin inhibits enterocyte growth is downregulation of growth factor receptors for important enterocyte mitogens.
Human amniotic fluid CX‐L‐fucosidase

The activity and properties of alpha-L-fucosidase in 24 samples of amniotic fluid have been investigated using the 4-methylumbelliferyl substrate. A wide range of fucosidase specific activity (0.20-1.45 nmol/min/mg protein) was found with an average value of 0.62 nmol/min/mg protein. Although no clear-cut correlation exist, there appear to be trends of decreasing fucosidase specific activity with increasing maternal age of donor and increasing gestational time. alpha-L-Fucosidase activity from four amniotic fluids was characterized kinetically and immunochemically and found not to differ in its properties due to maternal age of donor or gestational time. Isoelectric focusing revealed multiple forms between pH 5.0 and 6.8, with the majority of activity present between pH 5.0 and 6.0. The pH optimum is near pH 5.0 with a second optimum suggested at pH 6.2. The apparent Michaelis constant (Km) for the 4-methylumbelliferyl substrate is 0.05 +/- 0.01 mM. The enzyme is completely thermostable at 37 degrees C for at least 4 h but loses 95% of its activity after preincubation at 45 degrees C for 1 h. Double immunodiffusion and immunoprecipitation experiments using anti-liver alpha-L-fucosidase antibody suggest that the amniotic fluid alpha-L-fucosidase is antigenically similar, if not identical, to the human liver enzyme.
Is core needle biopsy superior to fine-needle aspiration biopsy in the diagnosis of papillary breast lesions?

Since the 1980s core needle biopsy (CNB) has gained remarkable popularity and in many institutions it has replaced fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). However, similar to FNAB, limitation remains in the ability of this procedure to reliably diagnose a small, but prognostically significant, number of breast lesions. These include entities such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, fibro-epithelial tumors, radial scar, papillary lesions, and lobular neoplasia. To assess the diagnostic accuracy of CNB vs. FNAB in the same breast lesions, we reviewed our cases of papillary lesions of the breast. In a retrospective study, we identified 36 cases of FNAB and 11 cases of CNB diagnosed as papillary lesions and compared the results with their corresponding surgical specimen. Interpretation ranged from papillary vs. atypical papillary lesions favoring benign vs. malignant tumors, respectively. Occasionally, definitive diagnosis of papillary carcinoma was entertained. Immunohistochemical staining with smooth muscle actin was used to evaluate the presence or absence of a myoepithelial cell layer. FNAB had benign findings in 21 lesions, atypical in 10, and malignant in five. Of the five lesions yielding malignant features, four had invasive carcinoma and one had micropapillary ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Surgery revealed invasive carcinoma in three of the cases interpreted as atypical papillary lesions and invasive cancer and micropapillary DCIS in three of the cases diagnosed as benign lesions. Similar results were obtained with CNB. DCIS was found in one out of six of the cases diagnosed as papilloma. Out of the four cases that were interpreted as atypical papillary lesion, surgery revealed invasive carcinoma in one case and one case had micropapillary DCIS. Diagnosis of malignancy was confirmed by histology in one case interpreted as papillary carcinoma by CNB. This study suggested that both FNAB and CNB share similar diagnostic challenges and a follow-up surgical excision is indicated when diagnosis of a papillary lesion is entertained by both procedures.
Do Medications Affect Vital Signs in the Prehospital Treatment of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Introduction. Prehospital treatment of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) has been shown to decrease mortality andmorbidity. Vital sign changes have been proposed as clinical endpoints in the evaluation of prehospital treatment for this condition. Objective. To examine the effect of prehospital treatments on vital signs among patients with ADHF. Methods. Records of an urban emergency medical services system from September 1, 2002, through September 1, 2003, were queried for patients who had a paramedic impression of shortness of breath or respiratory distress andhad received nitroglycerin and/or furosemide. Demographics, initial andrepeat vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, andoxygen saturation), andmedications anddoses were collected. Results. Three hundred nineteen patients were included; the average age was 77 (±12) years and47% were male. Treatments administered to these patients included nitroglycerin, 296 (93%); furosemide, 194 (61%); albuterol, 189 (59%); ...
Communication: An existence test for dividing surfaces without recrossing

The claim that Grote-Hynes theory (GHT), when it provides accurate rates, is equivalent to multidimensional variational transition state theory (VTST) has been debated for decades with convincing arguments on both sides. For the two theories to be equivalent a perfect dividing surface with no recrossing must exist. We describe an easily implemented test employing deterministic microcanonical (NVE) trajectories which can identify situations where no perfect dividing surface exists and thereby potentially falsify the claim of equivalence. We use this test to reach data-supported conclusions about the relationship between GHT and VTST.
δ-Aminolevulinic Acid Dehydratase Genotype and Lead Toxicity: A HuGE Review

The ALAD gene (chromosome 9q34) codes for delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) (E.C. 4.2.1.24). ALAD catalyzes the second step of heme synthesis and is polymorphic. The ALAD G177C polymorphism yields two codominant alleles, ALAD-1 and ALAD-2, and it has been implicated in susceptibility to lead toxicity. Genotype frequencies vary by geography and race. The rarer ALAD-2 allele has been associated with high blood lead levels and has been thought to increase the risk of lead toxicity by generating a protein that binds lead more tightly than the ALAD-1 protein. Other evidence suggests that ALAD-2 may confer resistance to the harmful effects of lead by sequestering lead, making it unavailable for pathophysiologic participation. Recent studies have shown that individuals who are homozygous for the ALAD-1 allele have higher cortical bone lead levels; this implies that they may have a greater body lead burden and may be at higher risk of the long-term effects of lead. Individuals exposed to lead in occupational settings have been the most frequent subjects of study. Genotype selection bias may limit inferences from these studies. No firm evidence exists for an association between ALAD genotype and susceptibility to lead toxicity at background exposure levels; therefore, population testing for the ALAD polymorphism is not justified.
Toward conducting motivational interviewing with an on-demand clinician avatar for tailored health behavior change interventions

In this article we describe work-in-progress about the development of avatar-based personalized assistants that can delivered motivational interviewing health behavior change interventions, tailored to its specific users Our approach combines the latest progress in Embodied Conversational Agents (ECAs), believable agents, and dialog systems. We discuss how we use different platforms to aim at providing accessibility of personalized health assistant, anytime anywhere.
Estimation of articulated motion using kinematically constrained mixture densities

We address the problem of articulated posture estimation in its general form. Namely, the recovery of full 3D articulated posture parameters from an uncontrolled scene. Stochastic modeling of low-level segmented image data is unified with models of object kinematic structure through a constrained mixture of observation processes. A modified expectation-maximization algorithm is proposed for this purpose. Early experiments qualitatively demonstrate the efficacy of our approach, and provide a context for integration for more sophisticated image cues.
Flood-fill algorithms used for passive acoustic detection and tracking

Flood-fill algorithms are used in the ldquobucketrdquo tool of paint programs to fill connected parts of a bitmap with color. They establish the area connected to a given node in a multi-dimensional array. This paper outlines the implementation a recursive flood-fill algorithm. Two elements are defined as connected if a path exists between them along which the value of all elements exceeds some threshold for a given node and threshold. The flood-fill is performed recursively on all elements connected to the node of interest. Two applications for passive acoustic monitoring are explored: (1) Signal detection via two-dimensional (frequency and time) flood-fill applied to spectrograms; (2) Source tracking via four-dimensional (x, y, z, and time) flood-fill applied to source position likelihood volumes (obtained using a localization algorithm that gives the likelihood of a source occupying a point in time and space).
Adaptive decision feedback turbo equalization

We present an adaptive iterative (turbo) decision feedback equalizer (DFE) for channels with intersymbol interference (ISI). The filter coefficients are computed directly from the soft decisions and the received data to minimize a least squares cost function. This method performs better than a turbo DFE with perfect channel knowledge, where the filters are selected to minimize mean squared error (MSE) assuming perfect feedback. We also present adaptive reduced-rank algorithms, which can further improve performance and reduce complexity.
Another new FDTD method for linear dispersive media-but this one's the best yet

A number of different FDTD methods used to model electromagnetic propagation in linear dispersive media have been published. We introduce a new FDTD method for general linear dispersive media (dielectrics and non-magnetized cold plasmas) based on exponential fitting of the auxiliary difference equation. We show that the recursive convolution method, developed by Luebbers et al. (1990, 1991) is exactly equivalent to a particular discretization in the context of our new method. Using this alternate formulation of the recursive convolution method, we apply a new analysis technique to compare the accuracy of the recursive convolution method and the exponential fitting method, as well as other formulations based on straightforward difference approximations of the governing differential equations.
Electronic Art and the Law: Intellectual Property Rights in Cyberspace

The dematerialization of art that began in the 1960s has reached new heights with the use of electronic media. We are at an important crossroads in defining intellectual property rights that will have a direct impact on the way we create and disseminate electronic art in the future. This paper examines the historical evolution of the definition of “author” in copyright law. The paper shows how current copyright legislation and recent court decisions do not address the plasticity of the medium and the new forms of authorship that are defined by the artistic use of techniques such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, hypermedia links and collaborative networking.
Knowledge-based search in competitive domains

Artificial intelligence programs operating in competitive domains typically use brute-force search if the domain can be modeled using a search tree or alternately use nonsearch heuristics as in production rule-based expert systems. While brute-force techniques have recently proven to be a viable method for modeling domains with smaller search spaces, such as checkers and chess, the same techniques cannot succeed in more complex domains, such as shogi or go. This research uses a cognitive-based modeling strategy to develop a heuristic search technique based on cognitive thought processes with minimal domain specific knowledge. The cognitive-based search technique provides a significant reduction in search space complexity and, furthermore, enables the search paradigms to be extended to domains that are not typically thought of as search domains such as aerial combat or corporate takeovers.