cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Institute of Medicine Recommendations for Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Florida, 2004–2007

We investigated the association between 2009 IOM recommendations and adverse infant outcomes by maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI). Birth outcomes for 570,672 women aged 18–40 years with a singleton full-term live-birth were assessed using 2004–2007 Florida live-birth certificates. Outcomes included large-for-gestational-age (LGA) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA). Associations between gestational weight change and outcomes were assessed for 10 BMI groups by calculating proportions, and logistic regression modeling was used to produce adjusted odds ratios (aORs) to account for the effect of confounders. We created comparison categories below and above recommendations using 2009 IOM recommendations as a reference. Of importance, 41.6% of women began pregnancy as overweight and obese and 51.2% gained weight excessively during pregnancy on the basis of 2009 IOM recommendations. Proportions of LGA were higher among obese women and increased with higher weight gain. Compared with recommended weight gain, aORs for LGA were lower with less than recommended gain (aOR range: 0.27–0.77) and higher with more than recommended gain (aOR range: 1.27–5.99). However, SGA was less prevalent among obese women, and the proportion of SGA by BMI was similar with higher weight gain. Gain less than recommended was associated with increased odds of SGA (aOR range: 1.11–2.97), and gain greater than recommended was associated with decreased odds of SGA (aOR range: 0.38–0.83). Gestational weight gain influenced the risk for LGA and SGA in opposite directions. Minimal weight gain or weight loss lowered risk for LGA among obese women. Compared with 1990 IOM recommendations, 2009 recommendations include weight gain ranges that are associated with lower risk of LGA and higher risk of SGA. Awareness of these tradeoffs may assist with clinical implementation of the 2009 IOM gestational weight gain recommendations. However, our results did not consider other maternal and infant outcomes related to gestational weight gain; therefore, the findings should be interpreted with caution.
A Dual-Microphone Algorithm That Can Cope With Competing-Talker Scenarios

This paper introduces a novel technique for signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) estimation for scenarios where two closely-spaced microphones are available. The proposed technique utilizes the real and imaginary parts of the coherence function between the input signals to estimate the SNR without assuming prior knowledge of the noise statistics. The corresponding dual-microphone speech enhancement algorithm utilizes a Wiener filter as a gain function constructed using the SNR values computed by the coherence function. Since the proposed SNR estimation technique does not require access to noise statistics, it can be applied in situations where interfering speakers are present. An adaptive speech reception threshold (SRT) test was used to assess the intelligibility of speech processed by the proposed algorithm in scenarios where one or two interfering talkers were present in anechoic and reverberant conditions. Intelligibility listening tests were conducted with both normal-hearing (NH) and cochlear implant (CI) listeners. Results revealed significant improvements in intelligibility and quality over a (baseline) fixed directional algorithm and a well-established beamformer algorithm. In a nearly anechoic room with competing talkers, the improvement in SRT obtained relative to the directional microphone ranged from 5-10 dB, while the improvement obtained by the beamformer was about 2 dB. In reverberant environments, the improvement in SRT remained high (4-7 dB) at T60 = 220 ms, and decreased to 1-2 dB at T60 = 465 ms. Overall, the proposed algorithm provided significant benefits in intelligibility in anechoic and mildly reverberant environments making it suitable for hearing aid and cochlear implant applications.
Silica-Coated Gold Nanorods as Photoacoustic Signal Nanoamplifiers

Photoacoustic signal generation by metal nanoparticles relies on the efficient conversion of light to heat, its transfer to the environment, and the production of pressure transients. In this study we demonstrate that a dielectric shell has a strong influence on the amplitude of the generated photoacoustic signal and that silica-coated gold nanorods of the same optical density are capable of producing about 3-fold higher photoacoustic signals than nanorods without silica coating. Spectrophotometry measurements and finite difference time domain (FDTD) analysis of gold nanorods before and after silica coating showed only an insignificant change of the extinction and absorption cross sections, hence indicating that the enhancement is not attributable to changes in absorption cross section resulting from the silica coating. Several factors including the silica thickness, the gold/silica interface, and the surrounding solvent were varied to investigate their effect on the photoacoustic signal produced from silica-coated gold nanorods. The results suggest that the enhancement is caused by the reduction of the gold interfacial thermal resistance with the solvent due to the silica coating. The strong contrast enhancement in photoacoustic imaging, demonstrated using phantoms with silica-coated nanorods, shows that these hybrid particles acting as "photoacoustic nanoamplifiers" are high efficiency contrast agents for photoacoustic imaging or photoacoustic image-guided therapy.
Scedosporium apiospermum (Pseudallescheria boydii) Endocarditis

Scedosporium apiospermum, the asexual state of Pseudallescheria boydii, is increasingly recognized as an opportunistic pathogen. We report a case of native valve endocarditis due to this organism that developed in an elderly patient following a prolonged hospitalization. Literature on endocarditis caused by S. apiospermum and P. boydii is reviewed.
Applications of directly coupled SE-HPLC/ICP-MS in environmental toxicology studies: A study of metal-ligand interactions in cytoplasmic samples

Abstract The utility of directly coupled size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography inductively-coupled-plasma mass spectroscopy (SE-HPLC/ICP-MS) to quantify environmentally induced perturbations in the cytoplasmic distributions of metals has been demonstrated by using the marine polychaete Neanthes arenaceodentata. Polychaetes were exposed to EDTA-buffered seawater containing elevated free-ion activities of either Zn (10−7·9 m ) or Cd (10−7 m ). Comparisons of metalloprotein profiles from the two groups and control animals showed evidence of two Cd-inducible, metalbinding ligand pools with apparent molecular weights of >120 000 and 10 000 Da, termed the HMW and MT-like pools. The HMW pool bound Zn, Cd, and Cu, whereas the MT-like pool specifically bound Cd and Cu but not Zn. The induction of these pools by Cd altered the distribution of cytosolic Cu and Zn, and caused a pronounced increase in cytosolic Cu. These effects were attributed to the affinity of the ligands in the pools to preferentially bind Cu >Cd >Zn. The implications of these data on the interpretation of toxicological studies are discussed.
Additive deleterious effects of methamphetamine dependence and immunosuppression on neuropsychological functioning in HIV infection.

Methamphetamine (MA) dependence and HIV infection are independently associated with cerebral dysfunction, especially within frontal-basal ganglia circuits. Recent evidence indicates that MA dependence has an additive effect on neuropsychological (NP) deficits associated with HIV infection. This study extends prior findings by examining the combined effects of MA dependence (MA+) and immunosuppression (i.e., CD4 lymphocyte count <200) on NP functioning in 284 HIV+ individuals. Prevalence of NP impairment was examined in four demographically comparable groups: (1) MA+/CD4 < 200; (2) MA+/CD4 ≥ 200; (3) MA−/CD4 < 200; and (4) MA−/CD4 ≥ 200. Results revealed that both MA dependence and immunosuppression were significant predictors of NP impairment. More importantly, additive effects were evident whereby the MA+/CD4 < 200 group exhibited the highest rate of NP impairment. Findings indicate that MA dependence conveys an additive deleterious impact on NP status in immunosuppressed persons with HIV infection, perhaps reflecting the combined effects of neuropathophysiological mechanisms in fronto-striatal circuits.
Hybrid antimicrobial enzyme and silver nanoparticle coatings for medical instruments.

We report a method for the synthesis of antimicrobial coatings on medical instruments that combines the bacteriolytic activity of lysozyme and the biocidal properties of silver nanoparticles. Colloidal suspensions of lysozyme and silver nanoparticles were electrophoretically deposited onto the surface of stainless steel surgical blades and needles. Electrodeposited films firmly adhered to stainless steel surfaces even after extensive washing and retained the hydrolytic properties of lysozyme. The antimicrobial efficacy of coatings was tested by using blades and needles in an in vitro lytic assay designed to mimic the normal application of the instruments. Coated blades and needles were used to make incisions and punctures, respectively, into agarose infused with bacterial cells. Cell lysis was seen at the contact sites, demonstrating that antimicrobial activity is transferred into the media, as well as retained on the surface of the blades and needles. Blade coatings also exhibited antimicrobial activity ...
Evaluation and Treatment of Low Responders

Identification and treatment of low responders to ovulation induction is one of the most frustrating challenges in reproductive medicine. Because complex ovulation induction is required so frequently and is so expensive, efficient diagnosis of hyporesponders is critical. At present, the best techniques of evaluating ovarian reserve are basal follicle-stimulating hormone/Estradiol levels early in the proliferative phase and the clomiphene citrate challenge test. When poor responders are identified, strong consideration should be given to adjunctive approaches such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog and microdose flare or possibly, embryo hatching in those women undergoing in vitro fertilization.
Effect of warping-pretwist coupling on the natural vibration of torsionally clamped-pinned thin-walled open-profile bars

Exact natural frequencies are determined for the torsional vibration of pretwisted thin-walled open-profile bars having torsionally clamped and pinned end restraints. The equation of motion and boundary conditions are derived from a multifilament model of a pretwisted thin-walled bar undergoing warp deformation and a moderately large twist about the elastic axis. Closed-form torsional frequencies and mode shapes are derived from the linear terms of the resulting non-linear equations. As the length-to-leg ratio (L/b) and leg-to-thickness ratio (b/t) of typical open-profile bars are varied, the individual and collective effects of warping and pretwist on the non-dimensional torsional frequencies are demarcated. In addition, the closed-form solutions offered here reveal considerable destiffening of the torsional frequencies due to warping-pretwist coupling present in thin-walled bars having pretwisted, unsymmetrical, open-profiles and torsionally clamped and pinned end restraints. This coupling effect, which have been ignored in thin-walled bar vibration theories hitherto, is brought out by the Wagner effect and warping shear stresses acting on the profiles.
Temperatures and thermophysical properties of the lunar outermost layer

Comparisons of calculated diurnal and eclipse temperatures of the lunar outermost layer are made with earth-based infrared and millimeter data. The thermophysical model upon which the calculations are based incorporates variable physical properties. The thermal conductivity is a function of both density (depth) and temperature; the specific heat is a function of temperature; the density is a function of depth; and the dielectric constant and loss tangent are functions of density (depth). Laboratory measurements and Apollo-sample results are incorporated in the property data. Calculational cases are based largely upon different density profiles. The model is consistent with the data, and the comparisons of theoretical and observational temperatures are very favorable. For such comparisons, further sophistication of the thermophysical model of the outermost layer is probably not justified.
Rethinking Computers for Cybersecurity

Cyberattacks are growing at an alarming rate, even as our dependence on cyberspace transactions increases. Our software security solutions may no longer be sufficient. It is time to rethink computer design from the foundations. Can hardware security be enlisted to improve cybersecurity? The author discusses two classes of hardware security: hardware-enhanced security architectures for improving software and system security, and secure hardware. The Web extra at https://youtu.be/z-c9ACviGNo is a video of a 2006 invited seminar at the Naval Postgraduate School, in which author Ruby B. Lee presents the Secret-Protected (SP) architecture, which is a minimalist set of hardware features that can be added to any microprocessor or embedded processor that protects the "master secrets" that in turn protect other keys and encrypted information, programs and data.
Special Section on Sensor Applications

Sensor applications are one of the emerging topics in the worldwide frontiers of technologies such as smart city, better society, energy, health, environment, emergency management, and industry. The IEEE Sensor Applications Symposium (SAS) has been a leading forum to present novel approaches and emerging applications in sensor technology, including Internet of things, biosensors and arrays, smart sensors and standards, sensor networking, MEMS and nanosensors, virtual sensors, homeland security, multisensor data fusion, nondestructive evaluation and remote sensing, robotics and automation, electromagnetic sensors, computer vision, and commercial development. This special section on the ninth edition, SAS 2014, includes four papers from the symposium that illustrate the diversity of sensor applications emerging in technology and research.
Design of a slot nanoparticle virtual impactor

A novel design for a nanoparticle slot virtual impactor is proposed. Compressible flow through the slot impactor is simulated using the CFD code FLUENT, and the corresponding particle trajectories are studied. The variation of the impactor performance with design parameters is also investigated. The design is optimized for a specific application where the virtual impactor serves as a preconcentrator. However, the design proposed is suitable for any application that requires concentration of ultrafine particles at high volumes. Additionally, the design developed in this work can be used for size selection by simply varying the operating pressure of the instrument. The 50% cut-off diameter varies from 13 nm to 200 nm as the operating pressure is increased by a factor of 20, without affecting the minor to total flow ratio significantly. *Currently with Framo Engineering, PO Box 174 Sandsli, N-5862 Bergen, Norway.
Calculating nectar production rates: residual nectar and optimal foraging

Bumblebees, when foraging for nectar in flowers of Aconitum columbianum, do not consistently drain them of reward. The amount of residual nectar varies among sites, times and species of bee. At times, residual nectar can be a significant percentage of total 24 h production strongly suggesting that, if nectar secretion rates are to be studied, flowers must have their standing crop of nectar drained by hand; assuming that a recently visited blossom is empty can lead to erroneous nectar production values. The fact that residual nectar exists is consistent with predictions of optimal foraging theory but more detailed work is necessary before it can be concluded that the volumes left behind in A. columbianum flowers are optimal.
IMPROVING ECOLOGICAL COMMUNICATION: THE ROLE OF ECOLOGISTS IN ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY FORMATION

This paper begins with the premise that communication regarding ecological risk and ecologically based management decisions should be improved. Failures of communication are attributed to lack of terms, indicators, and measures that are based in ecological science, but that are also associated with important social values. I show that, especially in the area of wetlands management, current scientific and policy discourse has failed to provide adequate linkage between descriptive characteristics of natural systems and changes in social values associated with them. As a result, wetlands policy is being implemented without analysis of social values affected by policies such as wetland banking and mitigation efforts. Ecologists have contributed to this unfortunate situation because they are reluctant to mix values issues with scientific study. I also show that ecologists are slow to pick up on signals flowing from policy discourse to ecological science; this is illustrated by the fact that ecologists often fa...
Increased plasma levels of angiogenin and the risk of bladder carcinoma: From initiation to recurrence

BACKGROUND Angiogenesis is a well known prerequisite for tumor growth and metastasis. It is believed that angiogenin initiates cell migration and aids cell proliferation. Based on this, the authors hypothesized that individuals who had increased plasma levels of angiogenin were at an elevated risk for carcinoma of the urinary bladder. METHODS In this ongoing case–control study, the authors used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to compare plasma levels of angiogenin in 209 patients with bladder carcinoma and in 208 healthy control participants who were matched according to age (± 5 years), gender, and ethnicity. RESULTS The mean plasma angiogenin concentration was significantly higher in patients compared with controls (343.2 ng/mL vs. 308.0 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.01). High plasma angiogenin levels were associated with a two-fold increased risk for bladder carcinoma. Moreover, in patients who had superficial bladder carcinoma, plasma angiogenin levels were significantly higher among those who had recurrent disease than in those who were without recurrence (P < 0.01). Similarly, patients who had superficial bladder carcinoma with higher angiogenin levels had a shorter recurrence-free survival than patients who had lower angiogenin levels (P < 0.01). Finally, elevated angiogenin levels were associated with an increased recurrence risk, with hazard ratio of 2.85. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrated that the plasma levels of angiogenin were significantly higher in patients who had bladder carcinoma compared with healthy control participants and in patients with superficial bladder carcinoma who had recurrent disease compared with patients who were without recurrence. Therefore, an elevated plasma level of angiogenin may serve as a novel predictor for the risk of bladder carcinoma. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Effects of High Dietary Lead on the Metabolism of Intravenously Dosed Selenium-75 in Dairy Calves

The metabolism of intravenously dosed 75Se was studied in 10 Holstein bull calves fed for ad libitum access a control diet containing no added Pb or a control diet supplemented with 1000 ppm Pb as PbSO4 for 4 wk. The Pb-supplemented calves exhibited no clinical signs often ascribed to lead toxicity. Likewise, feed intake and body weight gains were not affected adversely. The lead content of rib, kidney, liver, and brain was increased. Serum glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase activity increased in the calves fed Pb during the last 2 wk of the experiment. The kidneys of the calves supplemented with lead were 34% larger than those of controls. The total endogenous 75Se in the feces over the 4-d collection period was not different between treatments (4.14% of dose versus 3.31% of dose). Likewise, urinary 75Se excretion values were similar. About 97% of the 75Se dose disappeared from the blood within 6 h after dosing four calves on both treatments. Tissue concentrations of 75Se were reduced in kidney, spleen, pancreas, brain, and spinal cord. In summary, ingested Pb had very little effect on the endogenous excretion of 75Se in urine and feces; therefore, the data are consistent with earlier research in which the main effect of Pb on Se occurs at the absorption site.
Evaluation of reference ranges for fatty acids in serum

Long chain fatty acid fractionation has become a valuable tool in the management of patients maintained on total parenteral nutrition. While many clinicians prefer to use absolute concentrations to monitor a patient's fatty acid status, reference ranges are not available. Previous reference range studies reported values in terms of percentages only and calculated ranges parametrically. However, due to the non-Gaussian distributions of some serum fatty acids, it is necessary to calculate reference ranges non-parametrically. Serum from blood donors (n = 130) were collected and analyzed for total fatty acids by gas-liquid chromatography. Results for each of the fatty acids were calculated both as a concentration and as a percentage of the total fatty acids measured.
TU‐E‐AUD C‐01: Contemporary Concepts in Cellular and Molecular Biology for the Medical Physicist

Progress in translational biomedical research, whose goal is to translate basic research findings from the laboratory into the clinic to improve patient care, depends extensively upon the use of molecular and cellular concepts and tools. Thus, research activities often focus upon the use of cellular and molecular biology to examine research questions with potential clinical implications. As such, medical physicists may be at somewhat of a loss to comprehend these studies since they are frequently not equipped with an understanding of these applications. This restricts the role for the medical physicist and often limits their participation in conferences and seminars, which is unfortunate since these individuals may be able to provide a key contribution to ongoing research activities. A knowledge of cellular and molecular biology is also important for clinical applications of therapies and diagnostics which rely upon an understanding of the biologic basis behind their effectiveness. The goal of this educational session is to provide medical physicists with a basic working knowledge of the most common and important contemporary cellular and molecular approaches used in translational biomedical research. Educational Objectives: 1. To provide medical physicists with an understanding of the following topics in cellular and molecular biology: a. DNA,RNA and protein structure, synthesis and function. b. Vectors and recombinant moleculesReporter gene assays. c. Genetic libraries. d. Gelelectrophoresis. e. Polymerase chain reaction f. Gene analyses; southern, northern and western blots. g. Microarrays. h. Single nucleotide polymorphisms. i. Knockout mice. j. EMSA, ELISA and immunoprecipitation. k. Monoclonal antibodies. l. Gene silencing. m. Detection and measurement of DNA damage.
Modeling urban land use change: Approaches, state-of-the art, prospects

• To connect activity projections (population and jobs) to locations. • Work forward to explore the spatial impacts of near-term strategic planning interventions, particularly infrastructure investments and land use and environmental regulations. Work backward to connect desirable future outcomes to contemporary policy interventions and projects. • Identify key drivers of urban growth and change patterns. • Generate scenarios as inputs into local and regional impact assessment models: • Transportation system use and congestion • Air and water quality • Habitat and biodiversity impacts • Local public finance • Energy use and climate change
The significance of foreleg positions in the interpretation of electrocardiograms and vectorcardiograms from research animals.

Abstract The effects of various foreleg positions on the ECG and VCG have been studied in dogs. A statistically significant effect on the frontal plane QRS mean manifest electric axis was found for all the foreleg positions studied when compared to the control position. Several changes due to foreleg positions were noted in some planes of the Wilson equilateral tetrahedron and McFee system VCG's. Consistent serial ECG's were obtained over a 16 day period when the body and limb positions were carefully controlled.
Thermal unfolding of helices of a C-peptide analogue of ribonuclease A in sodium dodecyl sulfate solution.

The conformation of a 13-residue C-peptide analogue of ribonuclease A, suc-AET-AAAKFLRAHA-CONH2, in NaDodSO4 solutions with respect to temperature was studied with CD. The equilibrium constant of unfolding yielded a straight line in a van't Hoff plot. In 10 mM NaDodSO4, delta G mu = 120 cal/mol, delta H mu = 700 cal/mol, and delta S mu = 2.0 entropy units all on per helical residue. These values compared fairly well with the thermodynamic parameters of the uncharged helix-coil transition of (Glu)n in 0.1 M NaCl based on the theories of Zimm and Bragg and Zimm and Rice. The peptide was not unfolded at 75 degrees C completely. Even in water without surfactant it was not a "random coil."
Improvement of NADPH bioavailability in Escherichia coli by replacing NAD+-dependent glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase GapA with NADP+-dependent GapB from Bacillus subtilis and addition of NAD kinase

Enzymatic synthesis of some industrially important compounds depends heavily on cofactor NADPH as the reducing agent. This is especially true in the synthesis of chiral compounds that are often used as pharmaceutical intermediates to generate the correct stereochemistry in bioactive products. The high cost and technical difficulty of cofactor regeneration often pose a challenge for such biocatalytic reactions. In this study, to increase NADPH bioavailability, the native NAD(+)-dependent glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gapA gene in Escherichia coli was replaced with a NADP(+)-dependent gapB from Bacillus subtilis. To overcome the limitation of NADP(+) availability, E. coli NAD kinase, nadK was also coexpressed with gapB. The recombinant strains were then tested in three reporting systems: biosynthesis of lycopene, oxidation of cyclohexanone with cyclohexanone monooxygenase (CHMO), and an anaerobic system utilizing 2-haloacrylate reductase (CAA43). In all the reporting systems, replacing NAD(+)-dependent GapA activity with NADP(+)-dependent GapB activity increased the synthesis of NADPH-dependent compounds. The increase was more pronounced when NAD kinase was also overexpressed in the case of the one-step reaction catalyzed by CAA43 which approximately doubled the product yield. These results validate this novel approach to improve NADPH bioavailability in E. coli and suggest that the strategy can be applied in E. coli or other bacterium-based production of NADPH-dependent compounds.
Subjective realities of rural older women's lives: a case study.

SUMMARY This paper presents and analyzes the subjective reality of a single older rural woman through her telling of her life story and open-ended interviews. This case study is used to demonstrate how a rural woman experiences a positive life experience while living with poverty, poor health, and numerous challenges and losses. The case was selected from the multiphase Rural Older Women's Project completed in rural Minnesota in 1986 and 1987. This representation shows the respondent living her later life and adjusting to old age in the same ways she has always faced life's challenges–with stoicism and tenacity, as well as patience and good humor. In the telling of her life story we recognize key values of rural older women including independence and privacy, balanced with a clear sense of the importance of relationships with others, and a closeness to the land. The views of informal and formal systems of service delivery arc discussed and implications explored for the development of formal services which...
Intrarenal pheochromocytoma Preoperative angiographic diagnosis

Abstract This report documents the angiographic, urographic, and tomographic findings in a patient with a pheochromocytoma within the renal capsule and separate from a normal adrenal gland.
Neptunium and Plutonium Solubilities in a Yucca Mountain Groundwater

Solubilities of neptunium and plutonium were studied in J-13 groundwater (ionic strength of about 3.7 mmol; total dissolved carbonate of 2.8 mmol) from the proposed Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Repository site, Nevada, at three different temperatures (25, 60, and 90 °C) and pH values (6.0, 7.0, and 8.5). Experiments were performed from both over- and undersaturation at defined CO2 partial pressures. The solubility of 237Np from oversaturation ranged from a high of (9.40 ± 1.22) × 10-4 M at pH 6.0 and 60 °C to a low of (5.50 ± 1.97) × 10-6 M at pH 8.5 and 90 °C. The analytical results of solubility experiments from undersaturation (temperatures of 25 and 90 °C and pH values 6, 7, and 8.5) converged on these values. The 239/240Pu solubilities ranged from (4.70 ± 1.13) × 10-8 M at pH 6.0 and 25 °C to (3.62 ± 1.14) × 10-9 M at pH 8.5 and 90 °C. In general, both neptunium and plutonium solubilities decreased with increasing pH and temperature. Greenish-brown crystalline Np2O5·xH2O was identified as the solubil...
Does lateral release change patellofemoral forces and pressures?: a pilot study.

Background One complication of TKA is postoperative anterior knee pain. Balancing retinacular tissue tension to improve patellar tracking is essential in preventing pain. Lateral release might help balance tension although the quantitative changes in patellofemoral force and pressure differentials after lateral release are unknown.
Full Field Digital Mammography: Initial Medical Legal Concerns

The introduction of full-field digital mammography into clinical practice invites changing concepts of potential medical legal liability in a field already suffering from high medical malpractice exposure. These include the lack of uniform quality control measures and the ability to perform extensive postprocessing manipulations, with unknown legal consequences.
Controlled release of paclitaxel from biodegradable unsaturated poly(ester amide)s/poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate hydrogels

Biodegradable hydrogels (FPBe-G) were synthesized by the photopolymerization of two precursors: FPBe, a fumurate-based unsaturated poly(ester amide) (UPEA), and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEG-DA). Depending on the feed ratio of these two precursors, the resultant FPBe-G hydrogels showed different crosslinking levels of network structure, mesh sizes (ξ) and matrix morphology. When a lipophilic drug, paclitaxel, was preloaded into FPBe-G hydrogels, the two-month drug-release kinetics from FPBe-G hydrogels in both pure PBS buffer and α-chymotrypsin media were measured. The paclitaxel-preloaded FPBe-G hydrogels in a α-chymotrypsin solution had significantly faster drug release rate than the corresponding hydrogels in a pure PBS buffer due to an enzyme catalyzed biodegradation of FPBe-G hydrogels. Sustained paclitaxel releases over a two-month period without initial burst release were also achieved by using hydrogels having certain feed ratios of hydrogel precursors. These paclitaxel release data correl...
A new approach to the sensitivity problem in multivariable feedback system design

A new point of view for the parameter variation problem in linear multivariable systems is proposed. The output deviations due to parameter variations for an open-loop realization are related by a sensitivity matrix to the output deviations due to parameter variations for a closed-loop (feedback) realization. Using a time-domain integral of the square of the error as a performance index, frequency-domain criteria involving the sensitivity matrix are derived. The criteria are sufficient for insuring that the feedback realization is less affected by parameter variations than an open-loop realization having the same nominal transfer characteristic. Furthermore, the criteria are independent of the integration interval involved in the performance index. A numerical example shows how the criteria may be used in designing multivariable control systems.
Effects of calcium on potassium and water transport in human erythrocyte ghosts.

Abstract Bulk water transport in reconstituted ghosts is statistically comparable to that in the parent red cells, and is unaffected by incorporation of Ca 2+ over the range of 0.01 to 1 mM. Brief exposure of ghosts to p -chloromercuribenzene sulfonate results in a supression of osmotic water flow but leaves K + permeability unchanged. Incorporation of p -chloromercuribenzene sulfonate provokes extremely rapid K + loss which can be counteracted by simultaneous inclusion of Ca 2+ . Erythrocyte ghosts, when prepared with a small amount of Ca 2+ , demonstrate recovery of normal impermeability to choline, sucrose, Na + and inulin and have an improved K + retention over Ca 2+ -free preparations. The rate of passive transport of K + from unwashed erythrocyte ghosts was measured during the initial few minutes of efflux. The initial rates vary in a bimodal fashion with the concentration of Ca 2+ incorporated at the time of hemolysis. In low concentrations (0.01–0.1 mM), Ca 2+ protects the K + barrier while at higher concentrations (0.1–1.0 mM) it provokes a K + leakage ranging from 7 to 50 times the normal rate of passive K + loss. The Ca 2+ -induced K + leak is thus a graded response rather than a discrete membrane transport state. The transition from a Ca 2+ -protected to a Ca 2+ -damaged membrane occurs upon an increase in Ca 2+ concentration of less than 50 μmoles/l.
ON THE RATE OF OXYGEN CONSUMPTION BY FERTILIZED AND UNFERTILIZED EGGS : III. NEREIS LIMBATA.

1. The rate of consumption of oxygen by unfertilized Nereis eggs is about 1.1 mm.3 O2 per hour per 10 mm.3 eggs. 2. Following fertilization the rate increases to 135 per cent or 145 per cent of the prefertilization rate, and continues to increase for 2 hours (the duration of the measurements).
Hernioplastic operations upon the rectum and pelvic floor

Abstract 1. 1. We have undertaken to present these rectal extrusions as herniations through the pelvic floor. 2. 2. The pelvic floor is the lower wall of the abdomen and as such is a support to the rectum when retaining its proper build and strength, and as a part of the wall is subject to weakness and hernial formation. 3. 3. Hernioplastic repair of the pelvic floor and amputation of the extruded portion of the bowel is a rational procedure.
A Highly Fatigue-Resistant Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glass

The strength-normalized fatigue endurance strength of the bulk metallic glass (BMG) Zr52.5Cu17.9Ni14.6Al10Ti5 (Vitreloy 105) has been reported to be the highest for any BMG; however, to date, there has been no explanation of why this material is so much better than other Zr-based compositions. In this study, the fatigue-crack growth behavior of Zr52.5Cu17.9Ni14.6Al10Ti5 was compared in ambient air vs dry nitrogen environment. The excellent fatigue life behavior is attributed to a relatively high fatigue threshold (ΔKTH ≈ 2 MPa√m) and a lack of sensitivity to environmental effects on fatigue-crack growth in ambient air, as compared to other Zr-based BMGs. Fatigue life experiments conducted in ambient air confirmed the excellent fatigue life properties with a 107-cycle endurance strength of ~0.24 of the ultimate tensile strength; however, it was also found that casting porosity, even in limited amounts, could reduce this endurance strength by as much as ~60 pct. Overall, the BMG Zr52.5Cu17.9Ni14.6Al10Ti5 appears to have excellent strength and fatigue properties and should be considered as a prime candidate material for future applications where good mechanical fatigue resistance is required.
Theoretical studies of chemisorbed oxygen on Ag(110)

Abstract The interaction of an oxygen atom with a 26-atom cluster model of the (110) face of Ag has been investigated with ab initio self-consistent-field and configuration-interaction theory. The SCF results for the bridge site (C2v) predict r = 0.3 A and ωe = 327 cm−1, in good agreement with the available experimental evidence. The calculated binding energy (De = 9 kcal/mole) is roughly an order of magnitude too small. The inclusion of electron correlation increases re and ωe only slightly, but should have a dramatic effect on De. The ground state corresponds to a “surface oxide” state. The theoretical projected density-of-states curves exhibit “bonding” and “anti-bonding” O(2p) peaks, separated by ~ 6 eV, in good agreement with recent angle-resolved photoemission data.
Interleukin-13, a Mediator of Subepithelial Fibrosis, Enhances Growth Factor Production and Proliferation in Human Airway Epithelial Cells

Subepithelial fibrosis is a prominent feature of the remodeled asthmatic airway. The cytokine interleukin (IL)-13, implicated as a mediator in the development of asthma, induces a significant degree of subepithelial fibrosis in the lungs of transgenic mice. Since IL-13 has been shown to exert effects on the airway epithelium, including the development of a mucous phenotype, we have begun to determine whether IL-13 provokes production of factors from the epithelium that could elicit the observed subepithelial fibrotic response. In the studies reported herein, injured airways with regions of regenerating/differentiating cells and regions of normal fully differentiated cells have been mimicked by examining the effects of IL-13 on normal human bronchial epithelial cells during mucociliary differentiation in air/liquid interface culture. Exposure of normal human bronchial epithelial cells to IL-13 resulted in increased production of soluble transforming growth factor (TGF)-a, with the growth factor interacting in an autocrine manner with the epidermal growth factor receptor. Production of soluble TGF-a was very rapid, with a threefold increase observed in response to IL-13 (10 ng/mL) b y1ho fexposure. Continuous exposure to IL-13 throughout the course of mucociliary differentiation (a total of 10 days) resulted in a twofold increase in cell number by day 7 when cells are differentiated. Exposure to IL-13 (10 ng/mL; 24 h) provoked a threefold increase in proliferation once the cells were differentiated, an effect that could be duplicated in differ
Mathematical biophysics of color vision

A neural mechanism is studied in which three primary receptors interact in such a manner that only a small region is in activity for a given colored stimulus. The similarity to the color triangle is noted. The introduction of an additional primary receptor may or may not change the dimensionality of sensation space in this mechanism. Problems of discrimination of color, absolute judgment of saturation, and hue are discussed.
Biochemical and behavioral effects of diazinon exposure in hybrid striped bass

The effects of environmental stimuli on biochemical processes may influence behavior. Environmental contaminants that alter behavior can have major impacts on populations as well as community structures by changing species' interactions. One important behavior is the ability to capture prey. We hypothesized that sublethal exposure to diazinon, an organophosphate pesticide, may lead to feeding behavior abnormalities in hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis x M. chrysops) through inhibition of brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. This can potentially reduce the organism's survival by affecting its ability to find and capture food. To test this hypothesis, bass were exposed to diazinon for 6 d, followed by a 6-d recovery period in clean water. Brain AChE activity and the ability of bass to capture prey fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were measured every third day. Exposed fish exhibited a concentration- and duration-dependent decrease in ability to capture prey. While bass in all diazinon treatment groups had significantly inhibited brain AChE activity, only the medium and high treatment groups showed a dose- and time-dependent increase in time to capture prey. Acetylcholinesterase activity also decreased in an exposure duration- and concentration-dependent manner. The AChE levels in exposed fish did not recover to control levels during the 6-d recovery period. These results suggest that sublethal exposure to AChE-inhibiting substances may decrease the ecological fitness of hybrid striped bass by reducing their ability to capture prey.
Well-Being in Older Mexican American Spouses

Purpose: There is a strong connection between marriage and well-being, with evidence suggesting that the well-being of one spouse is closely correlated with that of the other. However, among older Mexican Americans, there is little information about this phenomenon. To address this, we explore two research questions: Does one spouse’s well-being predict the other spouse’s well-being? Are there gender differences in these effects? Design and Methods: We assess information from 553 couples who participated in Wave 1 (1993–1994) of the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly. Using structural equation models, we examined three aspects of well-being among older Mexican American couples: depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and self-rated health. Results: The findings revealed evidence of an association between the well-being of one spouse and that of the other. Specifically, the self-rated health of husbands and wives predicts that of their partners. However, there is evidence that husbands’ depressive symptoms and life satisfaction influence wives’ well-being, but not the reverse. Implications: The findings from this study are important because they add to the literature on the connection of well-being among spouses, point to important gender differences, focus on an understudied minority group with unique cultural characteristics, and have implications for the examination of well-being within a marriage framework.
Control of root architecture and nodulation by the LATD/NIP transporter

The Medicago truncatula LATD/NIP gene is essential for the development of lateral and primary root and nitrogen-fixing nodule meristems as well as for rhizobial invasion of nodules. LATD/NIP encodes a member of the NRT1(PTR1) nitrate and di-and tri-peptide transporter family, suggesting that its function is to transport one of these or another compound(s). Because latd/nip mutants can have their lateral and primary root defects rescued by ABA, ABA is a potential substrate for transport. LATD/NIP expression in the root meristem was demonstrated to be regulated by auxin, cytokinin and abscisic acid, but not by nitrate. LATD/NIP's potential function and its role in coordinating root architecture and nodule formation are discussed.
Performance analysis of Time Warp with multiple homogeneous processors

The behavior of n interacting processors synchronized by the Time Warp protocol is analyzed using a discrete-state, continuous-time Markov chain model. The performance and dynamics of the processes (or processors) are analyzed under the following assumptions: exponential task times and timestamp increments on messages, each event message generates one new message that is sent to a randomly selected process, negligible rollback, state saving, and communication delay, unbounded message buffers, and homogeneous processors. Several performance measures are determined, such as: the fraction of processed events that commit, speedup, rollback probability, expected length of rollback, the probability mass function for the number of uncommitted processed events, the probability distribution function for the virtual time of a process, and the fraction of time the processors remain idle. The analysis is approximate, thus the results have been validated through performance measurements of a Time Warp testbed executing on a shared-memory multiprocessor. >
Preclinical and clinical evaluation of sulforaphane for chemoprevention in the breast

Consumers of higher levels of Brassica vegetables, particularly those of the genus Brassica (broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage), reduce their susceptibility to cancer at a variety of organ sites. Brassica vegetables contain high concentrations of glucosinolates that can be hydrolyzed by the plant enzyme, myrosinase, or intestinal microflora to isothiocyanates, potent inducers of cytoprotective enzymes and inhibitors of carcinogenesis. Oral administration of either the isothiocyanate, sulforaphane, or its glucosinolate precursor, glucoraphanin, inhibits mammary carcinogenesis in rats treated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. In this study, we sought to determine whether sulforaphane exerts a direct chemopreventive action on animal and human mammary tissue. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a single 150 mmol oral dose of sulforaphane were evaluated in the rat mammary gland. We detected sulforaphane metabolites at concentrations known to alter gene expression in cell culture. Elevated cytoprotective NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene transcripts were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. An observed 3-fold increase in NQO1 enzymatic activity, as well as 4-fold elevated immunostaining of HO-1 in rat mammary epithelium, provides strong evidence of a pronounced pharmacodynamic action of sulforaphane. In a subsequent pilot study, eight healthy women undergoing reduction mammoplasty were given a single dose of a broccoli sprout preparation containing 200 mmol of sulforaphane. Following oral dosing, sulforaphane metabolites were readily measurable in human breast tissue enriched for epithelial cells. These findings provide a strong rationale for evaluating the protective effects of a broccoli sprout preparation in clinical trials of women at risk for breast cancer.
Myoepithelial carcinoma of the extremity: Response to isolated limb infusion.

We report our experience with two patients with myoepithelial carcinoma (MEC) of the extremity. An 83-year-old male and a 35-year-old female were treated with standard isolated limb infusion (ILI), using melphalan and dactinomycin. The first patient had a complete response (CR) that was sustained for two and a half years, until he developed a regional lymph node metastasis. The second patient had a 4.7 cm tumor located on her left hand with metastasis to the ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes. Initial treatment consisted of ILI and left axillary lymphadenectomy. The primary tumor regressed and showed signs of central necrosis, measuring 2.8 cm after 1 month. Though she was continuing to respond, a decision was made by her orthopedic surgeon to administer neoadjuvant radiation followed by surgical resection.
Looking for Earth-like Planets with the SIM Planet Quest Light Mission

The Space Interferometry Mission Planet Quest Light (SIM PQL) is a new concept for a space borne astrometric instrument. It will be located in a solar Earth-trailing orbit. SIM PQL utilized technology developed for the space interferometry mission planet quest (SIM PQ). The instrument consists of two Michelson stellar interferometers and a telescope. The first interferometer chops between the target star and a set of reference stars. The second interferometer monitors the attitude of the instrument in the direction of the target star. The telescope monitors the attitude of the instrument in the other two directions. SIM PQL will be capable of one micro-arc-second narrow angle astrometry, over a two-degree field of regard for magnitude 6 and brighter target stars. During the 5-year mission, SIM PQL would search 50 nearby stars for planets of mass down to one Earth mass, in the Habitable Zone, which have orbit periods of less than 3 years. SIM PQL will also perform global astrometry on a variety of astrophysics objects, reaching 6 micro-arc-seconds absolute position and parallax measurements. As a pointed instrument, SIM PQ will maintain its astrometric accuracy on fainter objects. This paper will describe the instrument, how it will do its astrometric measurements and the expected performance based on the current technology.