cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
C-reactive protein concentration and concentrations of blood vitamins, carotenoids, and selenium among United States adults

Objective: To examine the relationships between circulating concentrations of C-reactive protein and concentrations of retinol, retinyl esters, vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and selenium. Design: Cross-sectional study using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (1988–1994) data. Setting: United States population. Subjects: Up to 14 519 US noninstitutionalized civilian men and women aged ≥20 y. Results: C-reactive protein concentration (dichotomized at the sex-specific 85th percentile) was inversely and significantly associated with concentrations of retinol, retinyl esters, vitamin C, α-carotene, β-carotene, cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, lycopene, and selenium after adjustment for age, sex, race or ethnicity, education, cotinine concentration, body mass index, leisure-time physical activity, and aspirin use. Conclusions: These results suggest that the inflammatory process, through the production of reactive oxygen species, may deplete stores of antioxidants. Whether increased consumption of foods rich in antioxidants or supplementation with antioxidants can provide health benefits to people characterized by elevated C-reactive protein concentrations may be worthy of further study.
Inhibition by alpha-amanitin of adenovirus 12 replication in human embryo kidney cells and of adenovirus transformation of hamster cells.

ADENOVIRUS infection of human embryonic kidney (HEK) cultures seems to induce cellular RNA synthesis, which is preceded by a transient increase in the activities of the Mg2+-activated and Mn2+-(NH4)2SO4-activated DNA dependent RNA polymerases and in the rate of histone acetylation1. The two polymerase reactions, assayed in isolated cell nuclei, apparently reflect the activities of distinct nucleolar and nucleo-plasmic RNA polymerases2,3. We were therefore prompted to test the effect of a specific inhibitor of the mammalian DNA-dependent RNA polymerase function, α-amanitin, on the multiplication of adenovirus. α-Amanitin is a bicyclic octapeptide isolated from the poisonous mushroom Amanita phalloides4 and which blocks RNA synthesis in intact animals5,6. Nuclei isolated from the livers of such animals show a reduced activity of the RNA polymerases associated with nucleoplasm5,6 and the nucleolus6.
Disruption of protein-protein interactions using nanoparticles: inhibition of cytochrome c peroxidase

Functionalized gold nanoparticles bind selectively to cytochrome c or cytochrome c peroxidase and inhibit enzyme turnover.
Solar Blind System- Solar Energy Utilization and Climate Mitigation in Glassed Buildings

Abstract In the past few decades, energy scientists have focused on “renewable energy”, and solar energy in particular. Several technologies are commercialized for utilizing solar energy in the buildings by absorbing solar radiation and converting it to heat and electricity. These technologies can be categorized into the passive and active systems. A special case is a commercial greenhouse, which can be considered a passive solar building. A greenhouse is a structure which is covered by a transparent device such as glass in order to use solar energy while controlling the temperature, humidity and other parameters according to the requirements for cultivation and protection of the particular plants. The cooling demand in the commercial greenhouses is commonly supplied by e.g. ventilation and thermal screen. In the ventilation method a portion of the absorbed solar energy will be lost through ventilation windows and by applying the solar shielding, solar radiation will be blocked. In this study, by considering the solar blind concept as an active system, PVT panels are integrated to absorb the surplus solar heat (instead of blocking) which is then stored in a thermal energy storage for supplying a portion of the greenhouse heating demand at a later time. The overall objective of this study is to assess the potential of cutting external energy demand as well as maximizing solar energy utilization in a commercial greenhouse for Northern climate condition. Thus, a feasibility assessment has been carried out, examining various system configurations with the TRNSYS tool. The results show that the heating demand for a commercial closed greenhouse with solar blind is reduced by 80%, down to 62 kwh/m2 as compared to a conventional configuration. Also the annual total useful heat gain and electricity generation by solar blind in this concept is around 20 kwh/m2 and 80kwh/m2, respectively. The generated electricity can be used for supplying the greenhouse power demand for e.g. artificial lighting and other devices. Moreover, the cooling demand in a closed greenhouse is reduced by 60% by considering the solar blind system.
Serum amylase in bulimia nervosa and purging disorder: differentiating the association with binge eating versus purging behavior

Abstract Objective Elevated serum amylase levels in bulimia nervosa (BN), associated with increased salivary gland size and self-induced vomiting in some patients, provide a possible marker of symptom severity. The goal of this study was to assess whether serum hyperamylasemia in BN is more closely associated with binge eating episodes involving consumption of large amounts of food or with purging behavior. Method Participants included women with BN (n = 26); women with “purging disorder” (PD), a subtype of EDNOS characterized by recurrent purging in the absence of objectively large binge eating episodes (n = 14); and healthy non-eating disorder female controls (n = 32). There were no significant differences in age or body mass index (BMI) across groups. The clinical groups reported similar frequency of self-induced vomiting behavior and were free of psychotropic medications. Serum samples were obtained after overnight fast and were assayed for alpha-amylase by enzymatic method. Results Serum amylase levels were significantly elevated in BN (60.7 ± 25.4 international units [IU]/liter, mean ± sd) in comparison to PD (44.7 ± 17.1 IU/L, p Conclusion These findings provide evidence to suggest that it is recurrent binge eating involving large amounts of food, rather than self-induced vomiting, which contributes to elevated serum amylase values in BN.
Simultaneous occurrence of hepatic adenoma and focal nodular hyperplasia; report of a case and review of the literature.

We report the case of a 28-year-old woman with a history of oral contraceptive use and the simultaneous occurrence of histologically proven hepatic adenoma and focal nodular hyperplasia. A review of the literature discloses that the simultaneous occurrence of these hepatic lesions is a rare event. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that hepatic adenomas are etiologically related to oral contraceptive use, whereas focal nodular hyperplasia does not seem to be caused by these agents. The finding of the two lesions in the same liver may represent the chance occurrence of two rare diseases.
Serving the Public Interest? Federal Experiences with Participation in Strategic Planning

A clause in the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 instructs federal agencies to “consult with stakeholders during strategic plan development.” This requirement is a type of institution...
Mud transportation on a steep shelf, Rio de La Plata shelf, Puerto Rico

Hurricanes David (August 29–30, 1979) and Frederick (September 2–5, 1979) caused major flooding of the Rio de La Plata in northern Puerto Rico. A thin mud layer was deposited across the narrow insular shelf adjacent to the river mouth. Within 5 months, fair-weather shelf-winnowing processes moved the mud layer entirely from the shelf, 0.5 to 2 km to the shelf break at the 50-m contour and beyond. The process of mud movement is termed “mud hopping.”
Effect of Material Properties in Certain Thermoelastic Contact Problems

When two conforming bodies slide against each other, frictional heating and thermoelastic distortion generally causes the contacting surfaces to become convex and hence leads to a reduction in the size of the contact area. It is shown that, under such circumstances, the contact area is independent of the applied contact loads and the thermal and mechanical fields are linearly proportional to these loads. For two-dimensional problems involving a plane boundary, it is shown that there is a reduced dependence on material properties and in the case of a single material, the solution depends only on a single parameter which can be interpreted as a dimensionless sliding speed. These results extend to both steady-state and transient problems and therefore also characterize the critical sliding speed above which the system is unstable.
FBG Concentration Chemical Sensor with Three Layer Structure

FBG concentration chenical sensor with three layer structure is proposed in this paper. And through experimental study and reasoning calculation to verify the three layer structure of the optical waveguide model, so the sensitivity characteristic of the Bragg wavelength to the refractive index of chemical solution is obtained. And the relationships between the concentration and the shift of Bragg wavelength of sucrose, ethanol, and Nacl solution are achieved. Finally the shifts of the Bragg wavelength with the external concentration are obtained by experiments.
Experimental desensitization of mouse-avoidance following two schedules of semi-automated relaxation training☆

Abstract Eighteen S s received tape-recorded desensitization along a standardized mouse approach hierarchy. Nine of these S s had been previously allowed to govern their rates of progress during two sessions of semi-automated relaxation training. The other 9 S s received two sessions of totally standardized relaxation training. The efficacy of desensitization for the two groups was compared and evaluated relative to the performance of two control groups. Implications for future research are discussed.
Geometric aspects of low energy metal-ceramic interphase boundaries

Abstract Geometric models relating the energy of heterophase boundaries including metal-ceramic interfaces to their atomic structure can be based on the static distortion wave concept. This approach allows to separate the energetic from the substrate-induced strain contribution of commensurate and incommensurate boundary structures. The lock-in energy is gained when both crystallites are properly oriented, e.g. when the reciprocal lattice vectors of both lattices are equal and the strain energy term can be neglected. However, the chemical interaction and interfacial entropy are important as well for the structural stability evaluation and can be approximated on the basis of the universal binding energy relation. These relationships are discussed and compared with experimental resutls.
Sodium-potassium ATPase activity mediates cyst formation in metanephric organ culture

Sodium-potassium ATPase (Na-K ATPase) activity mediates cyst formation in metanephric organ culture.To study the possible role of altered transtubular transport in renal tubular cyst formation, the ontogeny of renal Na-K ATPase was studied during glucocorticoid-induced cystic metanephric tubular development in serum-free, murine organ culture (SFMOC). Utilizing an enzyme-linked kinetic microassay, a developmental profile of total ATPase and specific Na-K ATPase activity was established for control (CON) and glucocorticoid-induced cystic organ culture (CY) explants. During 120 hr of CON and CY organ culture nephrogenesis total Na-K ATPase activity, specific Na-K ATPase activity, and the Na-K ATPase:total ATPase ratio progressively increased, simulating normal in vivo murine enzyme development. However, from 48 to 120 hr of organ culture, CY showed significant increases in Na-K ATPase activity when compared to CON at similar stages of development Na-K ATPase activity (expressed as nmoles · min -1 · mg protein -1 , mean ± SD) was, at: 48 hr, CY 13.1 ± 0.7 vs. CON 11.0 ± 0.9 (P M (final concentration) × 120 min, without deleterious effects on overall metanephric development. We conclude that increased Na-K ATPase activity has a primary role in tubular cyst formation in the SFMOC model.
PHEmail: designing a privacy honoring email system

Controlling one's personal and private information could help alleviate one of the greatest harms facing the Internet today - the loss of attention due to the over abundance of unsolicited email (spam). If one could control the dissemination and usage of one's email address, one could eliminate spam. We introduce a privacy honoring email system that leverages the user's social network to provide access control to the user's email.
Nanocrystalline metallic powders and films produced by the polyol method

Abstract The polyol method has been extended to synthesize metallic powders of Ru, Rh, Sn, Re, W, Pt, Au, Fe-Cu, Co-Cu, Ni-Cu, in addition to powders of Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Pd and Ag which were previously prepared by others using this method. This method can also be used to deposit nanocrystalline metallic films on a variety of substrates, including PyrexTM, KaptonTM, TeflonTM, aluminum nitride, carbon fibers and alumina fibers. This can be a viable catalyst-free method for the deposition of conductive metallic films on non-conductive substrates.
Welfare effects of expanding banking organization opportunities in the securities arena

Abstract This study examines the welfare consequences of expanding, via deregulation, securities activities of banking organizations. The wealth effect of expanding the permissible scale of Bank Holding Company (BHC) securities activities is redistributive: when revenue limits are relaxed, BHCs gain at the expense of investment banks and their customers. However, removing prudential interaffiliate firewalls to permit BHCs to freely pursue synergies from the joint performance of banking and securities activities shows negative wealth effects for BHCs and an increase in their idiosyncratic risk. Relaxing firewalls appears to raise concerns about stockholder and customer exposure to “ethical risk” loss from management conflicts of interest.
Exercise: an alternative therapy for gestational diabetes.

Exercise can play a significant role in managing blood glucose levels in women who develop gestational diabetes and in women with type II diabetes who become pregnant. Because contracting muscles help stimulate glucose transport, exercise can help women control gestational diabetes without insulin. After constraints typical of pregnancy are taken into account-such as soft-tissue laxity and fetal status-an exercise program can be tailored to the individual needs of patients. Although fit, active women may tolerate more strenuous exercise, relatively sedentary women may benefit most from non-weight-bearing exercises. Moderate workouts appear to be safe for most women who have gestational diabetes.
A comparative analysis of the effects of alienation on public and private school females.

Abstract The levels of alienation of American female school students (N = 431; 256 public, 175 private) were assessed to determine the extent of the influence of the school environment on the student's level of alienation and the dimensions of isolation, normlessness, and powerlessness. It was hypothesized that substantially different school settings would have no significant effects because student alienation is influenced by a series of complex environmental factors. The Dean Alienation Scale (1961) was used to assess levels of alienation. There were no significant differences in terms of total alienation and powerlessness. Private school students, however, were more isolated (p < .001) and public school students had higher levels of normlessness (p < .05).
Identification of differentially expressed prostate genes: Increased expression of transcription factor ETS‐2 in prostate cancer

BACKGROUND Little is known about the genetic events in the malignant transformation of prostatic cells. This is due in large measure to the cellular heterogeneity of the prostate. METHODS An amplification method was devised to synthesize cDNA from small samples of cancer and benign tissues of the same resected glands. Differential gene expression of candidate informative markers between cancer and benign was screened by the polymerase chain reaction with gene-specific oligonucleotide primers. RESULTS The expression of a transcription factor, ETS-2, was shown to be elevated in some cancer specimens. Elevated expression was also noted for neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and another transcription factor, SEF2. CONCLUSIONS Our method can be used to identify quickly genes that are differentially expressed between benign and cancerous prostate cells. Transcription factors, such as ETS-2, may play a significant role in cancer progression. Prostate 30:145–153, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Sedimentary basins of the atlantic margin of North America

Abstract Scismic exploration has identified eight distinct basin structures along the North American Atlantic continental margin forming a chain of elongate depocenters parallel to the continental slope and interrupted by transverse basement arches and impinging oceanic fracture zones. From south to north these are: South Florida—Bahamas Basin bounded on the north by Peninsular Arch and Bahama Escarpment fracture zone; Blake Plateau Basin with Cape Fear Arch and the impinging Great Abaco and Blake Spur fracture zones; Baltimore Canyon Trough bounded by the Long Island Platform and impinging Kelvin fracture zone; Georges Bank Basin with the bounding Yarmouth Arch; Scotian Shelf Basin with Scartarie and Canso Ridges and impinging Newfoundland Ridge fracture zone; Grand Banks Troughs and the intervening horst ridges; and the East Newfoundland Basin separated by Cartwright Arch and the impinging Gibbs fracture zone from the Labrador Shelf Basin. All the basins are characterized by great depths to basement filled with from 7 to 14 km of possible Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous and Tertiary sediments. Basement faulting controls the basins' boundaries and the faults have affected the overlying sediments. The major boundary faults of the basins undoubtedly formed during the initial rifting of the Atlantic margin in the Jurassic or perhaps Triassic. However, throughout the Mesozoic and Cenozoic these basement faults have moved in response to different orientations of stress and strain rates produced by continued spreading of the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, the basement faults of the Atlantic Margin were apparently influenced by at least three different local stress systems, spatially overlapping but temporally independent. These are the east—west extensional Atlantic Ocean stress system, the northwest—southeast extensional White Mountain stress system, and the north-south extensional Labrador Sea stress system. Some consequences of this basic tectonic setting were differential cross-strike tilts of the basin blocks with each basin moving somewhat independent of its neighbor. The resulting buildup of the basins' sedimentary geometries reflect these tectonic tilts and varying strain rates. Correlations are found between changes in orientation and rates of Atlantic sea-floor spreading with observed major sedimentary events such as progradations, planar bedding episodes, reef platform development, regressive hiatuses, and transgressions. An understanding of this marginal geosyncline could yield a model with predictability.
1JWSn as a solution state predictor for tungsten-tin solid state bond length in sterically crowded tungstenocene stannyl complexes

A correlation between the tungsten tin solid state bond distance (rWSn) and the solution state one-bond scalar coupling of tungsten to tin (1JWSn) is reported. This correlation was observed in hydrido- and chlorotungstenocene diorganostannyl chlorides (Cp2WXSnClR2, X = H (1), X = Cl (2)) with sterically demanding organic substituents (R = tBu (1a, 2a), Ph (1b, 2b)). The different steric demands of the organic substituents (tBu and Ph) force the complexes 1a and 1b (or 2a and 2b) to adopt at 190 K in the solid state different, single rotameric conformations. For 1a and 2a, the tBu substituents occupy the equatorial wedge of the tungstenocene, whereas for 1b and 2b the Ph substituents are rotated to place the chlorine in the equatorial wedge. Variable-temperature multinuclear NMR and density functional theory calculations at the B3LYP/LANL2DZ level indicate the possibility of low-lying conformational isomers for complexes 1b.
Mapdiff: determining differences between two genomic maps

MOTIVATION When inspecting two maps of a chromosome or chromosomal region derived by similar or different methodologies, a computer-generated description of their differences is valuable, both to guide laboratory research as well as to assist version control. Our program, Mapdiff, can be used to compare two independently derived maps, or two revisions of the same map. Its usefulness increases in proportion to the percentage of shared objects between the two maps. Mapdiff uses a greedy algorithm to determine differences between shared objects. RESULTS We illustrate Mapdiff's use in comparing the publicly available STS-content and radiation hybrid maps of human chromosome 12. AVAILABILITY Freely available, (source, executables for Windows/DOS and Sun Solaris, documentation) on request from the author.
The sociolinguistic variant as a carrier of social meaning

Traditionally used as a “heuristic device” (Labov, 1978), the sociolinguistic variable has taken on a new role as a primitive of speaker/hearer mental models in third-wave variation work (Eckert, 2005, 2008). Results from a sociolinguistic perception study suggest that at least in some cases, variants of the same variable function independently as loci of indexically linked social meaning. Listener responses were collected to three matched guises of the English variable (ING): -in , -ing , and a neutral guise with no audible (ING) tokens. The results counter the study hypothesis that listener expectation, triggered by speaker regional accent, would shape (ING)'s impact. Instead, the two variants showed distinct social associations: the -ing guises were rated as more intelligent/educated, more articulate, and less likely to be a student than either the -in or neutral guises, which did not differ significantly. In contrast, -in guises made speakers sound less formal and less likely to be gay than the -ing and neutral guises, which did not differ. These results suggest that third-wave work needs to more closely examine the role of the variable in theorizing the relationship between linguistic and social structures.
Higher-dimensional functional dynamic equations on periodic time scales

In this study, by employing the Krasnosel'skii fixed point theorem we investigate the existence of multiple positive periodic solutions for functional dynamic equations on time scales of the form where λ>0 is a parameter. Some general theorems are given and are applied to population growth models.
The association between antidepressant dosage titration and medication adherence among patients with depression.

Background To evaluate the association between upward dose titration of antidepressants and medication adherence during the first 6 months of a newly initiated antidepressant treatment for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Methods We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study using Thomson Reuters MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Claims data. We identified 40,873 patients aged 18–64 with MDD newly initiating a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, or bupropion between July 1, 2005 and June 30, 2007. Patients with titration (defined as antidepressant initiation at doses equal or lesser than American Psychiatric Association treatment guidelines with a dosage increase in the first 60 days of treatment) were compared to patients with no titration. Adherence was measured as the proportion of days covered (PDC) on antidepressant treatment. Patients with PDC ≥ 80% were considered adherent. Persistence was measured as the duration of time from initiation to a 30-day gap in antidepressant treatment. Multivariate logistic regression and Cox-proportional hazard models examined the influence of titration on adherence and persistence, respectively. Results Adherence was greater in the titration group than in the nontitration group (67.5% versus 45.2%, P < .01). After adjustment for selected covariates, patients in the titration group were more likely to adhere to antidepressant treatments (odds ratio = 2.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.47–2.74) and less likely to have a 30-day gap in treatment (hazard ratio = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.45–0.51). Conclusions Upward dose titration on antidepressant treatments was associated with improved medication adherence and persistence. For clinicians initiating antidepressant treatment, titrating antidepressant doses may improve patient outcomes.
Integrated assessment of coronary anatomy and myocardial perfusion using a retractable SPECT camera combined with 64-slice CT: initial experience.

We evaluated a prototype SPECT system integrated with multidetector row CT (MDCT) for obtaining complementary information on coronary anatomy and hemodynamic lesion significance. Twenty-five consecutive patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) underwent routine SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). All patients also underwent repeat MPI with a mobile SPECT unit which could be attached to a 64-slice MDCT system. Coronary CT angiography (cCTA) was performed without repositioning the patient. Investigational MPI was compared with routine MPI for detection of myocardial perfusion defects (PD). Two observers diagnosed presence or absence of CAD based on MPI alone, cCTA alone, and based on combined MPI and cCTA with fused image display. In 22/24 patients investigative MPI corresponded with routine MPI (r = 0.80). Stenosis ≥ 50% at cCTA was detected in 6/24 patients. Six out of 24 patients had PD at regular MPI. Three of these six patients had no significant stenosis at cCTA. Three out of 19 patients with normal MPI studies had significant stenosis at cCTA. Our initial experience indicates that the integration of SPECT MPI with cCTA is technically feasible and enables the comprehensive evaluation of coronary artery anatomy and myocardial perfusion with a single instrumental setup.
Temperature relationship to distance and flow rate of warmed IV fluids

Study objective: To determine whether therapeutic benefit is obtained by administering warmed IV fluid to hypothermic children. Design: Saline at 37 C in standard IV tubing was subjected to temperature measurements within a fluid warmer and at 5, 25, 45, 65, 85, and 105 cm distally. Flow rates varied from 20 to 1,000 mL/hr. Setting: The Children's Hospital of Alabama emergency department. Type of participants: None. Interventions: None. Measurements and main results: Temperature readings were made every minute until the volume required to flush the tubing had infused. Only at rates of 750 and 1,000 mL/hr did the fluid remain warmer than 32 C more than 25 cm from the warmer. Conclusion: At flow rates usual in pediatrics, hypothermic patients must be connected to fluid warmers by lengths of IV tubing shorter than customary or practical in the ED to benefit from this treatment modality.
From solution to the gas phase: stepwise dehydration and kinetic trapping of substance P reveals the origin of peptide conformations.

Past experimental results and molecular dynamics simulations provide evidence that, under some conditions, electrospray ionization (ESI) of biomolecules produces ions that retain elements of solution phase structures. However, there is a dearth of information regarding the question raised by Breuker and McLafferty, “for how long, under what conditions, and to what extent, can solution structure be retained without solvent?” (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 2008, 105, 18145). Here, we use cryogenic ion mobility-mass spectrometry to experimentally probe the structural evolution of the undecapeptide substance P (SP) during the final stages of ESI. The results reveal that anhydrous SP conformers originate from evaporation of cluster ions, specifically, [SP + 2H]2+ (H2O)n (n = 0 to ∼50) and [SP + 3H]3+ (H2O)n (n = 0 to ∼30), and that major structural changes do not occur during the evaporative process. In the case of [SP + 3H]3+, the results demonstrate that a compact dehydrated conformer population can be kinet...
Nanotechnology based energy generation from thermal radiation

This paper presents a novel thermal to electrical energy conversion technique that utilizes black body radiation. We have mathematically modeled this conversion technique in order to determine a design methodology as well as provide a means to evaluate the performance of specific designs. The main principle of operation of the conversion technique is in utilizing microscopic waveguides in combination with specialized rectifying structures, called ballistic diodes. These structures, when properly combined, enable DC power generation using switching supply techniques. This is achieved by treating the infrared radiation as a high frequency AC source. This conversion methodology is now possible due to the fact that ballistic rectifiers are much smaller (/spl sim/200 nm) than a wavelength of thermal energy radiation (/spl sim/18 /spl mu/m). We have shown that it is possible to obtain voltages on the order of 0.02 volts from one waveguide, while using rectifiers that are only 14 % efficient. Furthermore, we have shown that it is possible to extract 90 % of the available energy within 10 /spl mu/m of depth of the waveguide structure (assuming a waveguide opening of 3 /spl mu/m /spl times/ 9.4 /spl mu/m). We have observed that power densities on the order of tens of watts per cubic centimeter are theoretically possible using this technique. In addition, we address the limitations of this methodology with respect to current technology and future manufacturing techniques.
Effect of left atrial to left femoral artery bypass and renin-angiotensin system blockade on renal blood flow and function during and after thoracic aortic occlusion * **

Abstract Temporary thoracic aortic occlusion can result in renal insufficiency with or without adjuncts to avoid distal hypoperfusion. In a canine model of thoracic aortic occlusion, left atrial to left femoral bypass was compared with blockade of the renin-angiotensin system. Renin-angiotensin system blockade with the converting enzyme inhibitor, MK422, resulted in restoration of baseline renal blood flow and glomerular filtration 30 minutes after cross-clamp release. Left atrial to left femoral bypass resulted in significant reduction in both renal blood flow and glomerular filtration 30 minutes after cross-clamp release. Stimulation of the renin-angiotensin system plays a significant role in the altered renal hemodynamics and glomerular filtration rates after thoracic aortic occlusion. (J VASC SURG 1987;5:329-35.)
Knee biomechanics of the dynamic squat exercise.

ESCAMILLA, R. F. Knee biomechanics of the dynamic squat exercise. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 33, No. 1, 2001, pp. 127‐141. Purpose: Because a strong and stable knee is paramount to an athlete’s or patient’s success, an understanding of knee biomechanics while performing the squat is helpful to therapists, trainers, sports medicine physicians, researchers, coaches, and athletes who are interested in closed kinetic chain exercises, knee rehabilitation, and training for sport. The purpose of this review was to examine knee biomechanics during the dynamic squat exercise. Methods: Tibiofemoral shear and compressive forces, patellofemoral compressive force, knee muscle activity, and knee stability were reviewed and discussed relative to athletic performance, injury potential, and rehabilitation. Results: Low to moderate posterior shear forces, restrained primarily by the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), were generated throughout the squat for all knee flexion angles. Low anterior shear forces, restrained primarily by the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), were generated between 0 and 60° knee flexion. Patellofemoral compressive forces and tibiofemoral compressive and shear forces progressively increased as the knees flexed and decreased as the knees extended, reaching peak values near maximum knee flexion. Hence, training the squat in the functional range between 0 and 50° knee flexion may be appropriate for many knee rehabilitation patients, because knee forces were minimum in the functional range. Quadriceps, hamstrings, and gastrocnemius activity generally increased as knee flexion increased, which supports athletes with healthy knees performing the parallel squat (thighs parallel to ground at maximum knee flexion) between 0 and 100° knee flexion. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that the parallel squat was not injurious to the healthy knee. Conclusions: The squat was shown to be an effective exercise to employ during cruciate ligament or patellofemoral rehabilitation. For athletes with healthy knees, performing the parallel squat is recommended over the deep squat, because injury potential to the menisci and cruciate and collateral ligaments may increase with the deep squat. The squat does not compromise knee stability, and can enhance stability if performed correctly. Finally, the squat can be effective in developing hip, knee, and ankle musculature, because moderate to high quadriceps, hamstrings, and gastrocnemius activity were produced during the squat.
Exchange and the Coulomb blockade: Peak height statistics in quantum dots

We study the effect of the exchange interaction on the Coulomb blockade peak height statistics in chaotic quantum dots. Since exchange reduces the level repulsion in the many-body spectrum, it strongly affects the fluctuations of the peak conductance at finite temperature. We find that including exchange substantially improves the description of the experimental data. Moreover, it provides further evidence of the presence of high-spin states $(Sg~1)$ in such systems.
Computer-Aided Information Seeking: Assessing the Value of Information

In order for computer-based information systems to evolve beyond index-oriented, keyword searching, it is argued that it will be necessary for the computer to be able to assess online the value of information relative to particular users and specific goals. A general formulation of a value function for characterizing a user's information needs is presented. Issues considered include the applicability of linear and multi-linear models, the effect of various cognitive biases and limitations, and the effects of context. Problems in incorporating the proposed formulation of a value function into an online information system are considered and results of three applications are discussed.
Identification of nuclear fragments by a combined time-of-flight, ΔE-E technique☆

Abstract Nuclear fragments of Z = 5 to 10 that resulted from the interaction of 5.5-GeV protons with uranium have been identified by a combined time-of-flight, ΔE - E technique. A thin ΔE detector was used so that the ΔE - E information provided only element resolution, not isotopic resolution. However, the measurement of the time-of-flight between the ΔE and E detectors together with the energy deposited in the E detector allowed the fragment mass to be determined. This technique enabled us to observe not only the major isotopes of these elements but also such neutron-rich nuclei as 18 C and 20 N. An improved algorithm for power-law particle identification is also described.
A differentiation-based microRNA signature identifies leiomyosarcoma as a mesenchymal stem cell-related malignancy

Smooth muscle (SM) is a spontaneously contractile tissue that provides physical support and function to organs such as the uterus. Uterine smooth muscle–related neoplasia comprise common well-differentiated benign lesions called leiomyomas (ULM), and rare, highly aggressive and pleomorphic tumors named leiomyosarcomas (ULMS). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play essential roles in normal cellular development and tissue homeostasis that can be used to accurately subclassify different tumor types. Here, we demonstrate that miRNAs are required for full smooth muscle cell (SMC) differentiation of bone marrow–derived human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). We also report a miRNA signature associated with this process. Moreover, we show that this signature, along with miRNA profiles for ULMS and ULM, are able to subclassify tumors of smooth muscle origin along SM differentiation. Using multiple computational analyses, we determined that ULMS are more similar to hMSCs as opposed to ULM, which are linked with more mature SMCs and myometrium. Furthermore, a comparison of the SM differentiation and ULMS miRNA signatures identified miRNAs strictly associated with SM maturation or transformation, as well as those modulated in both processes indicating a possible dual role. These results support separate origins and/or divergent transformation pathways for ULM and ULMS, resulting in drastically different states of differentiation. In summary, this work expands on our knowledge of the regulation of SM differentiation and sarcoma pathogenesis.
Tuning the Ear: Listening in Narrative Therapy

In this article the authors adopt “tuning the ear” as a metaphor for listening within narrative work. The distinction between listening as an intentional event, influenced by personal, theoretical, and political intentions is discussed. A central idea involves distinguishing between “listening to” and “listening for,” which suggests that therapists select events to be heard or not heard. The authors suggest that intentional listening can lead to therapeutic conversations that bring forward aspects of the lives of both clients and the therapists that would not have been predicted by the problem story. A map around intentional listening is presented, the Tuning the Ear Map, which includes four levels: tuning in, intentions, consequences, and action. The map is illustrated with excerpts from a conversation within a live supervision group.1
Toward a deeper characterization of the social phenotype of Williams syndrome: The association between personality and social drive

Previous research has robustly established a Williams syndrome (WS) specific personality profile, predominantly characterized a gregarious, people-oriented, and tense predisposition. Extending this work, the aims of the current, cross-sectional study were two-fold: (1) to elucidate the stability of personality characteristics in individuals with WS and typically developing (TD) comparisons across development, and (2) to explore the personality attributes that may be related to the respective profiles of social functioning characterizing the two groups, which is currently poorly understood. The sample comprised of participants with WS and TD matched on chronological age. The test battery included the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) and the Salk Institute Sociability Questionnaire (SISQ), an index of real-life social behavior. The main results showed that compared to the TD individuals, the WS group were consistently rated higher in Social Closeness, and this trait remained stable across development. Interpersonal behaviors were best predicted by Social Closeness in WS and by Social Potency in TD. Regression analysis highlighted that while a central motive underlying the increased drive toward social interaction in individuals with WS pertains to a desire to form affectionate relationships, TD individuals by contrast are motivated by a desire to exert social influence over others (leadership, social-dominance) and Well-Being (positive emotional disposition). In conclusion, these findings provide novel insight into social motivational factors underpinning the WS social behavior in real life, and contribute toward a deeper characterization of the WS affiliative drive. We suggest potential areas for behavioral intervention targeting improved social adjustment in individuals with WS.
Inelastic Deformation and Fracture of Glassy Solids

Abstract : A general unified treatment of the phenomeriology and mechanisms on inelastic deformation in glassy media, ranging from polymers to metals to ceramics.
Globalization, International Law, and Emerging Infectious Diseases

The global nature of the threat posed by new and reemerging infectious diseases will require international cooperation in identifying, controlling, and preventing these diseases. Because of this need for international cooperation, international law will certainly play a role in the global strategy for the control of emerging diseases. Recognizing this fact, the World Health Organization has already proposed revising the International Health Regulations. This article examines some basic problems that the global campaign against emerging infectious diseases might face in applying international law to facilitate international cooperation. The international legal component of the global control strategy for these diseases needs careful attention because of problems inherent in international law, especially as it applies to emerging infections issues.
Response of a yeast glycogen synthase gene to stress

Summary In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, glycogen synthase is encoded by two genes: GSY1 and GSY2. The activity of the enzymes increases as cultures enter the stationary phase of growth. Using a GSy2::lacZ fusion gene, we have demonstrated that the increase in glycogen synthase activity resulted, at least in part, from an increase in the level of the protein rather than simply from a change in its phosphorylation state. Northern blot analysis showed a parallel increase in the level of the GSY2 mRNA, which is consistent with transcriptional activation of GSY2. Deletion analysis identified three regions upstream of GSY2 which are involved in GSy2 expression: regions A (-390 to -347 relative to the start of translation), B (-252 to -209) and C (-209 to -167). Region A or C independently activated expression of GSY2. In contrast, region B alone yielded only modest expression. Expression of GSY2 is induced by growth to stationary phase, heat shock or nitrogen starvation. Response to these stressors is mediated by elements within regions A and C. These elements appear to be related to the stress-response elements found in other stress-responsive genes.
Update on pertussis in children.

Pertussis (or whooping cough) is a frequent and important infectious disease of the respiratory tract, mainly caused by the Gram-negative rod bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Although it is frequent...
Dynamics of electron transfer pathways in cytochrome C oxidase.

Cytochrome c oxidase mediates the final step of electron transfer reactions in the respiratory chain, catalyzing the transfer between cytochrome c and the molecular oxygen and concomitantly pumping protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane. We investigate the electron transfer reactions in cytochrome c oxidase, particularly the control of the effective electronic coupling by the nuclear thermal motion. The effective coupling is calculated using the Green's function technique with an extended Huckel level electronic Hamiltonian, combined with all-atom molecular dynamics of the protein in a native (membrane and solvent) environment. The effective coupling between CuA and heme a is found to be dominated by the pathway that starts from HisB204. The coupling between heme a and heme a3 is dominated by a through-space jump between the two heme rings rather than by covalent pathways. In the both steps, the effective electronic coupling is robust to the thermal nuclear vibrations, thereby providing fast and efficient electron transfer.
Impaired word-stem priming in patients with temporal-occipital lesions

In the word-stem priming test, words are presented (e.g., MOTEL, PARADE), and later subjects are shown three-letter word stems (e.g., MOT, PAR) and asked to complete each stem with the first word that comes to mind. Word-stem priming, as well as other aspects of implicit memory, are intact in amnesic patients with medial temporal lesions. However, this form of priming has been shown to be impaired in patients with Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that damage to neocortical areas outside the medial temporal lobe contributes to impaired priming in these patients. To examine the role of posterior cortical areas on word-stem priming, we administered the test to patients with unilateral temporal-occipital lesions. Patients with temporal-occipital lesions exhibited significantly impaired priming on this test. The findings suggest a critical role of the inferior posterior neocortex in the expression of this form of implicit memory.
Accurate Functional-First Multicore Simulators

Fast and accurate simulation of multicore systems requires a parallelized simulator. This paper describes a novel method to build cycle-accurate-capable and parallelizable functional-first simulators of multicore targets.
Theoretical and Empirical Considerations of Guests' Perceptions of Biometric Systems in Hotels: Extending the Technology Acceptance Model

This study extended the technology acceptance model (TAM) by applying it to the context of biometric systems in the hotel industry and by introducing a consumer-oriented construct, perceived innovativeness, as an antecedent of perceived ease of use. Using data collected from hotel guests who traveled during a 12-month period prior to the study, the model explained 79% of the variability in guests’ intentions to use biometric systems in hotels. The results showed that the TAM is an appropriate theoretical framework for the examination of adoption of biometrics in hotels, and that hotel guests are ready to adopt biometric systems, especially if they are perceived as useful.
Surveys of extragalactic radio sources

Nearly all discrete radio sources are extragalactic and lie at cosmological distances. Most sources stronger than ~1 mJy at 1.4 GHz are powered by active galactic nuclei (AGNs), while the majority of fainter sources are in starburst galaxies. Recent all-sky surveys have detected most of this AGN population, and smaller surveys are now sensitive enough to probe the evolution of star formation in selected areas. Sensitive new radio surveys will complement far-infrared, ultraviolet, and X-ray surveys now being made in “cosmic windows” having exptionally low interstellar extinction. They will help define the evolution of star-formation and dust-shrouded AGNs over cosmological timescales.
Pair-Countable, Closure-Preserving Covers of Compact Sets

In this paper, we prove the following results: (1) if a topological space X has a pair-countable, closure-preserving cover of compact sets, then X is locally paracompact at each point of X and X has a dense open subspace which is locally σ-compact. In addition, if X is also collectionwise- T 2 , then X is paracompact. Locally paracompact is taken to mean that each point X has an open set with paracompact closure.
Information integrity between correlated sources through Wyner-Ziv coding

In this paper, the problem of achieving information integrity in the classical Wyner-Ziv lossy source coding model is considered. A discrete memoryless source encodes its source sequence using the standard Wyner-Ziv coding technique and forwards the bin index to another source that employs the bin index and its own correlated sequence to decode the first source's sequence. There is an adversary who may arbitrarily modify the bin index sent to the decoder. It is assumed the adversary may base the attack on the true bin index, its own sequence (which may be correlated to both the encoder and decoder sequences) as well as the known codebook used by the sources. It is shown that a non-simulatability condition on the joint source distribution is necessary and sufficient to achieve information integrity. However, the additional requirement of information integrity may incur a penalty on the rate-distortion performance.