cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Money as the mechanism of exchange

Abstract ‘The existence and use of money remained an embarrassing puzzle for monetary analysis. We observe over man's history that social groups without generally accepted media of exchange exhibit poor survival characteristics. Most social groups do not use assets (or commodities) at random in the execution of exchanges. One observes that a small subset of assets is dominantly used in transactions. These transaction-dominating assets are usually referred to as money. The literature contains many suggestive attempts to explain the emergence and role of money. The classic writers made passing references in somewhat pictorial language to the extension markets and increasing labor productivity induced by the use of a general medium of exchange. This idea has never been systematically developed however.’ — Karl Brunner (1971)
REDUCED SENSITIVITY TO CO2 IN PREMATURE INFANTS

Reduced ventilatory response to CO2 (less than a 50cc/min/mmHg Pco2 increase in minute ventilation has been demonstrated in premature infants of 28-32 weeks post-conceptional age. Diminished ventilatory response to CO2 may be due to either mechanical limits on ventilatory work or true loss of CO2 sensitivity. Though premature infants are neurologically immature, they have been shown to possess chemoreceptor tone for oxygen. They also have small, stiff lungs and high total pulmonary resistance. The present study was undertaken to determine if mechanical or neurological factors limit the CO2 response of these infants. Adult patients with pulmonary disease have been shown to increase respiratory work during CO2 stimulation even though their minute volume fails to increase. Pulmonary work was therefore calculated from tracings of tidal volume and intraesophageal pressure during rebreathing of 5%CO2-40%O2 (Read, Austral.Ann.Med. 16:20 '67) on 13 occasions in 12 premature infants. Evidence of CO2 sensitivity, as demonstrated by increased respiratory work, was found in 5 of 7 infants whose ventilatory response to CO2 was less than 50cc/min/mmHg Pco2. Two infants showed no evidence of CO2 sensitivity by failing to increase either work or ventilation, suggesting true absence of chemoreceptor tone. Both neurological and mechanical factors may limit the CO2 response in premature infants, and may influence the course of hyaline membrane disease and the occurrence of “crib death” (SIDS).
Raman spectrum of bismuth germanium oxide

Abstract The Raman spectrum of single crystals of Bi 12 GeO 20 , a cubic crystal of T 3 symmetry, is reported. A factor group analysis predicts 8A + 8E + 24F zone center phonons for this crystal.
Impact of endocrine and diabetes team consultation on hospital length of stay for patients with diabetes

PURPOSE : To determine whether consultation by an individual endocrinologist or by a multidisciplinary diabetes team (endocrinologist, diabetes nurse educator, and registered dietitian) can impact length of hospital stay of patients with diabetes. PATIENTS AND METHODS : Hospital stays of consecutive patients with a principal diagnosis of diabetes were compared. Forty-three patients were seen by an individual endocrine consultant and 27 were managed by the internist alone. Thirty-four patients were seen in consultation by the diabetes team. All consultations were performed at the request of the primary physician. There were no statistically significant differences among groups with respect to age, duration of diabetes, admitting diagnosis, glucose levels, or concomitant acute or chronic illness. RESULTS : Average length of stay of diabetes-team patients was 3.6 ± 1.7 days, 56% shorter than the value, 8.2 ± 6.2 days, of patients in the noconsultation group (P <0.0001), and 35% shorter than the value, 5.5 ± 3.4 days, of patients who received a traditional individual endocrine consultation (P <0.05). The length of stay correlated with time from admission to consultation (regression equation : y = 3.92 x [1.09 x time to consultation] ; r =.55 ; P <0.0001). The slope (1.09) indicates that each 1-day delay in consultation resulted in a 1-day increase in length of stay. CONCLUSIONS : Length of stay was lowest in patients who received diabetes-team consultation. Three million Americans are hospitalized annually with diabetes at a cost of $65 billion. A team approach to their inpatient care may reduce their hospital stays, resulting in considerable health and economic benefits.
Neonatal sex steroids affect ventilatory responses to aspartic acid and NMDA receptor subunit 1 in rats.

We hypothesized that administration of estradiol benzoate to males and testosterone propionate to female neonatal rat pups alters sex-specific ventilatory responses to aspartic acid with correspond...
Quantitative studies of photopolymerization using fluorescent probes

The study of rates of photochemical polymerization processes in three-dimensions requires the development of new approaches to following chemical changes in the transient time domain. We report, herein, fundamental studies of acrylate polymerizations leading to the development of a simple fluorescence probe for such studies.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF DOUBLE DETERMINERS IN SWEDISH: DEN SUPPORT IN D*

. This article examines the distribution of the double definiteness construction in Swedish, where definite noun phrases appear with both a pre-nominal definite article and a post-nominal suffixal definite article. It is argued that the prenominal article is inserted to support features in D° only when the head noun plus the suffixal article cannot raise into D° and support the features there. The head noun fails to raise to D° in three contexts: in emphatic expressions, where the suffixal article cannot support the emphasis at PF; with pre-nominal adjectives, where N° remains in situ to license adjectival inflection and where there is an intervening head that prevents the head noun from raising to D°.
Novel automated motion compensation technique for producing cumulative maximum intensity subharmonic images.

Abstract The aim of this study was to develop a novel automated motion compensation algorithm for producing cumulative maximum intensity (CMI) images from subharmonic imaging (SHI) of breast lesions. SHI is a nonlinear contrast-specific ultrasound imaging technique in which pulses are received at half the frequency of the transmitted pulses. A Logiq 9 scanner (GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI, USA) was modified to operate in grayscale SHI mode (transmitting/receiving at 4.4/2.2 MHz) and used to scan 14 women with 16 breast lesions. Manual CMI images were reconstructed by temporal maximum-intensity projection of pixels traced from the first frame to the last. In the new automated technique, the user selects a kernel in the first frame and the algorithm then uses the sum of absolute difference (SAD) technique to identify motion-induced displacements in the remaining frames. A reliability parameter was used to estimate the accuracy of the motion tracking based on the ratio of the minimum SAD to the average SAD. Two thresholds (the mean and 85% of the mean reliability parameter) were used to eliminate images plagued by excessive motion and/or noise. The automated algorithm was compared with the manual technique for computational time, correction of motion artifacts, removal of noisy frames and quality of the final image. The automated algorithm compensated for motion artifacts and noisy frames. The computational time was 2 min compared with 60–90 minutes for the manual method. The quality of the motion-compensated CMI-SHI images generated by the automated technique was comparable to the manual method and provided a snapshot of the microvasculature showing interconnections between vessels, which was less evident in the original data. In conclusion, an automated algorithm for producing CMI-SHI images has been developed. It eliminates the need for manual processing and yields reproducible images, thereby increasing the throughput and efficiency of reconstructing CMI-SHI images. The usefulness of this algorithm can be further extended to other imaging modalities. (E-mail: flemming.forsberg@jefferson.edu )
Reactions to Blake and Das Gupta’s “the fallacy of the five million women: A re-estimate”

This article reviews the methods used by Blake and Das Gupta (1972) to estimate need for contraceptive protection among single (never-married) and previously married women below the near-poverty line in 1966. More recent data than those used by Blake and Das Gupta to estimate coital activity and protection by contraception allow calculation of alternative estimates of the number of single and previously married women in need in 1966. To assess the relative accuracy of the two estimates, we introduce a validity check. Using vital data from the National Natality Survey and other sources, we calculate a birth rate and a pregnancy rate for low-income single and previously married women, using the two estimates of the number of women in need—i.e., the population at risk of these vital events. If the two estimates of the number in need of contraceptive protection are either excessively low or high, this should be apparent in the resulting birth and pregnancy rates.
Infantile amnesia reconsidered: A cross-cultural analysis

A number of theories have been offered over the past hundred years to explain the phenomenon of infantile amnesia, the common inability to remember autobiographical experiences from the first years of life. Recent comparative studies that examine autobiographical memories in different populations, particularly populations in North America and East Asia, have yielded intriguing findings that provide a unique opportunity to revisit some of the major theoretical views and to propose new accounts. In light of these findings, this article discusses five theoretical explanations for infantile amnesia, including cognitive and social discontinuity, the emergence of the self, early parent-child memory sharing, functions of autobiographical memory, and the complexity of life experience. The reconsideration of infantile amnesia from a cross-cultural perspective suggests that while the basic mechanisms and contributing factors may be universal, the specific ways in which these mechanisms and factors are manifested di...
An adaptive functional regression-based prognostic model for applications with missing data

Abstract Most prognostic degradation models rely on a relatively accurate and comprehensive database of historical degradation signals. Typically, these signals are used to identify suitable degradation trends that are useful for predicting lifetime. In many real-world applications, these degradation signals are usually incomplete, i.e., contain missing observations. Often the amount of missing data compromises the ability to identify a suitable parametric degradation model. This paper addresses this problem by developing a semi-parametric approach that can be used to predict the remaining lifetime of partially degraded systems. First, key signal features are identified by applying Functional Principal Components Analysis (FPCA) to the available historical data. Next, an adaptive functional regression model is used to model the extracted signal features and the corresponding times-to-failure. The model is then used to predict remaining lifetimes and to update these predictions using real-time signals observed from fielded components. Results show that the proposed approach is relatively robust to significant levels of missing data. The performance of the model is evaluated and shown to provide significantly accurate predictions of residual lifetime using two case studies.
Smoke-free prisons: Policy dilemmas and constitutional issues

Abstract Issues on smoking and on exposure to tobacco smoke in prisons and jails are confronting correctional administrators. Recent medical studies have indicated that exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke increases the risk of contracting certain preventable life-threatening diseases. Courts, however, are divided on whether prisons are required to provide a smoke-free environment for inmates. This article discusses court cases on various aspects of the smoking issue, describes the standard set by the United States Supreme Court, and suggests policy implications resulting from litigation for consideration by jail and prison administrators.
Image Analysis to Study LC Alignment on Nanopatterned Substrates

ABSTRACT We have studied patterned substrates to identify liquid crystal alignment. The Polarized Optical Microscope (POM) was used to observe the alignment variations. Image analysis algorithms were developed to enhance the alignment information for POM images. The algorithms were developed to correlate the grayscale intensities in the image to the alignment variations. The resulting resolution of alignment variations is higher than the physical dimensions of the patterns. Using the technique, for 500 nm wide grooves, the alignment variations were observed every 166 nm. Thus, a resolution improvement factor of three is obtained.
Studies in chlorin chemistry. 3. A practical synthesis of c,d-ring symmetric chlorins of potential utility in photodynamic therapy.

C,D-ring symmetric chlorins 8 were prepared in 47−85% yield, on scales up to several hundred milligrams, by condensation of appropriately substituted bis-formyldihydrodipyrrins 6 and dipyrromethane bis-carboxylic acids 7 in 5% TFA/CH2Cl2 (25 examples). Target chlorins were chosen to systematically probe the effect of lipophilic and hydrophilic substituents on tissue partitioning and cellular membrane penetration in photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Cylindrical channel plasmon resonance for single-molecule sensing

Quasi-3D nanoplasmonic structures are investigated, and the interaction of cavity and surface plasmon modes in Au cylindrical channels is discussed. By fastidious choice of geometrical parameters, it is shown that localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) inside the channels are established and are highly sensitive to changes in the local dielectric environment. In this study, cylindrical channels are added to the surface of gold nanopillars whose geometry otherwise permits LSPR. The inclusion of the channels creates a plasmonic waveguide supporting whispering gallery mode (WGM) cylindrical channel plasmons, which result from the coupled hybridized field. FDTD simulations reveal the possibility of single-molecule sensitivity of these cylindrical channel nanopillars (CCNP) by demonstrating near-IR wavelength shifts in the detected reflectance from a modeled array of CCNPs in various dielectric environments. The reported sensitivity of this metamaterial provides a platform for SPR single-molecule studies and exhibits potential for label-free biological and chemical sensing.
Recoverin and Ca2+ in vertebrate phototransduction

Recoverin is a 23 kDa Ca 2+ -binding protein that has been detected primarily in vertebrate photoreceptors. The role of recoverin in phototransduction has been investigated using a variety ofbiochemical methods. Initial reports suggesting that recoverin regulates photoreceptor guanylyl cyclase have not been confirmed. Instead, recoverin appears to determine the lifetime of light-stimulated phosphodiesterase activity, perhaps by regulating rhodopsin phosphorylation. Retinal recoverin is heterogeneously fatty acylated at its amino-terminus. The amino-terminal fatty acid appears to be involved in the interaction of recoverin with photoreceptor membranes.
Electrophoresis of ribonucleoproteins reveals an ordered assembly pathway of yeast splicing complexes

Three splicing complexes formed with a yeast pre-messenger RNA during in vitro splicing can be resolved by non-denaturing gel electrophoresis after incubation in the presence of non-specific competitor RNA. The time course of the appearance of these complexes and their composition suggest that they represent an ordered pathway of splicing complex assembly.
A B-element-rich representative of the α-V3S type: AuPb3

The crystal structure of the recently described intermetallic phase AuPb3 was found to be of the tetragonal α-V3S type witha=11.959A andc=5.877A; the atomic positions have been refined. Relationships to the Fe3P type and AuPb2 are discussed.
Electroporation of unilamellar vesicles studied by using a pore-mediated electron-transfer reaction

The dynamics of electric field-induced pore formation (electroporation) is investigated in 186 nm diameter, unilamellar bilayer vesicles (liposomes) prepared from the phospholipid surfactant dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC). Formation of reversible transient pores is detected via the spectral changes associated with the electron-transfer reaction between Fe(CN)64- ions entrapped in the interior compartment of the vesicle and Ir(Cl)62- ions placed in the bulk medium. Upon application of a high-voltage square pulse (E = 8 kV/cm) to the suspension, poration occurs only if the pulse length is ≥200 μs. The field-induced elongation of the time average spherical vesicles to prolate ellipsoid in the direction of the applied field E is detected through the transient birefringence of the system. The onset of elongation precedes the availability of pores large enough for Fe(CN)64- to pass through, with an estimated radius of ∼9.6 A. The average rate of radius growth of the reversible pores (4 × 10-6 m s-1) is foun...
Fractional Polymerization of a Suspended Planar Bilayer Creates a Fluid, Highly Stable Membrane for Ion Channel Recordings

Suspended planar lipid membranes (or black lipid membranes (BLMs)) are widely used for studying reconstituted ion channels, although they lack the chemical and mechanical stability needed for incorporation into high-throughput biosensors and biochips. Lipid polymerization enhances BLM stability but is incompatible with ion channel function when membrane fluidity is required. Here, we demonstrate the preparation of a highly stable BLM that retains significant fluidity by using a mixture of polymerizable and nonpolymerizable phospholipids. Alamethicin, a voltage-gated peptide channel for which membrane fluidity is required for activity, was reconstituted into mixed BLMs prepared using bis-dienoyl phosphatidylcholine (bis-DenPC) and diphytanoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPhPC). Polymerization yielded BLMs that retain the fluidity required for alamethicin activity yet are stable for several days as compared to a few hours prior to polymerization. Thus, these polymerized, binary composition BLMs feature both fluidi...
Recent advances in research on Parkinson disease: synuclein and parkin.

BACKGROUND Until recently, most research effort on Parkinson disease (PD) was focused on possible environmental causes. With the discovery of mutations in two genes, synuclein and parkin, which are responsible for rare familial forms of the disease, there has been a major change in emphasis. REVIEW SUMMARY The first genetic cause of PD to be identified was in the gene for synuclein, resulting in an alanine to threonine substitution at position 53. The likely pathogenetic significance of this mutation was supported by the discovery of a second mutation, and the presence of synuclein in Lewy bodies in sporadic PD cases. The synuclein protein has a tendency to self aggregate, and this tendency is increased in the mutants, and by oxidative injury to the protein. While there is growing evidence in animal models that overexpression of wildtype or mutant synuclein may lead to intracytoplasmic inclusions, and dysfunction of dopamine neurons, no animal models in rodents have yet replicated all important features of the disease. Deletions or point mutations in the gene for parkin cause an autosomal recessive, early onset form of parkinsonism. The parkin protein functions as an E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase, and it is involved in the degradation of cellular proteins by the proteasomal pathway. It is hypothesized that the loss of this function results in the toxic accumulation of its target proteins. CONCLUSIONS Research on these inherited forms of PD is pointing towards a common theme, that disturbances of cellular protein handling can lead to the death of dopamine neurons in PD.
Testing Two Contrasting Structural Models of Innovativeness in a Contractual Network

This study examined contrasting models of the impact of formal and informal structural factors and the communication environment on organizational innovativeness. Specifically, three formal structural variables (decentralization, formalization, and slack resources), two informal structural variables (range and prominence), and two communication environment variables (communication quality and acceptance) are posited to be antecedents of organizational innovativeness. In the traditional model, formal structural impacts are posited to be shaped by informal structure. Conversely, the coexisting model argues that both formal and informal structural variables directly affect the communication environment, which, in turn, shapes perceptions of innovativeness. Data were gathered from self-report questionnaires and network analysis communication logs completed by organizational members (N = 79) of a geographically dispersed government health information agency, the Cancer Information Service (CIS). Tests of the models demonstrate that the coexisting model is clearly superior. These results suggest that the dual role of formal and informal structures needs to be more systematically specified as we focus on innovation in new organizational forms, such as the CIS.
Mifepristone for management of Cushing's syndrome.

Cushing's syndrome is a debilitating endocrine disorder caused by elevated circulating glucocorticoid levels. Although uncommon, Cushing's syndrome is associated with significant morbidity necessitating rapid reversal of hypercortisolemia. Primary therapy for most patients with Cushing's syndrome is surgical, but many patients will require additional treatments with radiation or drugs. Although several options for drug therapy exist, few are readily available and all have dose-limiting adverse effects. Mifepristone (RU 486), a first-in-class glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2012 for use in Cushing's syndrome to control hyperglycemia in patients who are not surgical candidates or have not achieved remission from surgery. The drug is approved for oral once-daily administration. In its pivotal trial, 60% of patients responded to mifepristone with significant improvements in glycemic control and 38% had a reduction in diastolic blood pressure. The most common adverse events were nausea, fatigue, headache, endometrial hyperplasia, and hypokalemia. Adrenal insufficiency occurred in fewer than 5% of patients. The recommended starting dosage of mifepristone is 300 mg/day. The dosage may be increased every 2-4 weeks up to a maximum of 1200 mg/day, although it should not exceed 20 mg/kg/day. Significant drug-drug interactions exist due to mifepristone's effects on a number of cytochrome P450 enzymes. Despite its limitations, mifepristone is a welcome addition and an appropriate alternative to the available drug therapy for Cushing's syndrome.
Aspects of electronically stimulated processes of chemisorbed molecules

We discuss recent insights into the dynamical nature of electron- and photon-stimulated surface processes for chemisorbed molecules. Much of what we have learned stems from the correlation of quantum-resolved data on the products with the nature of the excited state(s), the excitation lifetimes, and the multidimensional potential energy surfaces. The latter are particularly important when two or more degrees of freedom in the adsorbates determine the dynamics and yields. Rapid advances in local-density functional approximation calculations now allow us to characterize the multidimensional aspects of ground state potential energy surfaces for chemisorbed molecules.
Direct measurements on CD24-mediated rolling of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells on E-selectin.

Tumor cell rolling on the endothelium plays a key role in the initial steps of cancer metastasis, i.e., extravasation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Identification of the ligands that induce the rolling of cells is thus critical to understanding how cancers metastasize. We have previously demonstrated that MCF-7 cells, human breast cancer cells, exhibit the rolling response selectively on E-selectin-immobilized surfaces. However, the ligand that induces rolling of MCF-7 cells on E-selectin has not yet been identified, as these cells lack commonly known E-selectin ligands. Here we report, for the first time to our knowledge, a set of quantitative and direct evidence demonstrating that CD24 expressed on MCF-7 cell membranes is responsible for rolling of the cells on E-selectin. The binding kinetics between CD24 and E-selectin was directly measured using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), which revealed that CD24 has a binding affinity against E-selectin (KD = 3.4 ± 0.7 nM). The involvement of CD24 in MCF-...
Magnetic interactions of copper (II) trimers

Abstract Magnetic susceptibility measurements have been performed on IPA2CuCl4 and Cu3Cl6(H2O)2 ⋯ 2TMSO2 (IPA=isopropylammonium,(CH3)2CHNH+3; TMSO2=tetramethylenesulfone,C4H8SO2). The susceptibility data (2–230 K) for both compounds have been compared to the predictions of a model of Ising coupled Heisenberg trimers. The resulting fits for IPA 2 CuCl 4 are J k=45 K and J′ k=−5.4 K and for Cu3Cl6(H2O)2⋯2TMSO2 are J k=−21 K and J′ k=0 .
Changes in endolymph chloride concentration following furosemide injection.

Abstract Endocochlear potential (EP) and chloride concentration in endolymph were monitored with microelectrodes in the basal turn of the cochlea of the chinchilla. After intravenous injection of furosemide (25–100 mg/kg), the EP dropped precipitously and rapidly reached its minimum value, however, the chloride activity in endolymph decreased more gradually. Possible mechanisms for this phenomenon include a reduced electrostatic attraction of chloride ions to the scala media due to a decreased EP and a reduction of passive influx of chloride into endolymph, resulting from a reduction of active inward potassium transport by furosemide.
Periodically Poled Structure on Microwave Transmissions Evaluated by Scattering Parameters

A combined experimental and numerical investigation has been conducted to study piezoelectric resonance process in relation to the strain gradient, the local polarization, and the displacement current in a piezoelectric crystal-resonator. Experimental discoveries showed that at certain sub-wavelengths of the fundamental piezoelectric resonant frequencies of a given resonator, electrooptic coefficients and also the optical transmission in an otherwise opaque configuration are greatly enhanced. This paper reports preliminary study by finite element analysis modeling on microwave transmission behavior when the piezoelectric material is modulated by periodic polarization distribution defined by piezoelectric resonance or generated by periodic poling. Transmission parameters are simulated in wide frequency range to characterize wave propagation behavior of the material in various local polarization conditions related to piezoelectric transverse or longitudinal resonance modes.
Determination of carbonate carbon in geological materials by coulometric titration

Abstract A coulometric titration is used for the determination of carbonate carbon in geological materials. Carbon dioxide is evolved from the sample by the addition of 2 M perchloric acid, with heating, and is determined by automated coulometric titration. The coulometric titration showed improved speed and precision with comparable accuracy to gravimetric and gasometric techniques.
High-Performance Li-S Batteries with an Ultra-lightweight MWCNT-Coated Separator.

A bifunctional separator consisting of a layer of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the cathode-side of a Celgard polypropylene sheet has been investigated to overcome the challenges of Li–S cells. The conductive/porous MWCNT-coating functions (i) as an upper current collector to facilitate electron transport and high active-material utilization and (ii) as a filter to intercept/absorb the migrating polysulfides and thereby suppress the polysulfide diffusion. Also, the access to the electrolyte through the porous network of MWCNT along with its fast electronic transport facilitates the reutilization of the trapped active material and superior long-term cyclability. The MWCNT-coating is lightweight (0.17 mg cm–2), yet allows the successful use of regular sulfur cathodes (high sulfur content of 70 wt %) with high discharge capacity, excellent rate performance, and long cycle life, demonstrating that the MWCNT-coated separator is a viable solution to practical Li–S batteries.
EFFECTS OF LIGHT INTENSITY ON THE FLIGHT PATTERN OF TWO GNATHOTRICHUS (COLEOPTERA: SCOLYTIDAE) SPECIES

Studies in a Douglas-fir stand showed that the crepuscular flight pattern of Gnathotrichus retusus (Lec.) and G . sulcatus (Lec.) depends upon an interaction of light intensity and temperature. After the primary temperature threshold of 58°F is reached, light intensities above 2,000 ft-c retard flight activity, while both higher light intensity and darkness terminate flight.
Calcific Nodule Morphogenesis by Aortic Valve Interstitial Cells: Synergism of Applied Strain and TGF-β1

Calcific Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD) is the third most common cause of cardiovascular disease, affecting nearly 5 million people in the United States alone. It is now the most common form of acquired valvular disease in industrialized countries and will likely affect more individuals in the coming years as the prevalence increases with life expectancy. It is known that the progression of CAVD is closely related to the behavior of aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs); however the cellular mechanobiological mechanisms leading to dysfunction remain unclear. Generally, CAVD is characterized by the formation of calcified AVIC aggregates with an apoptotic core. These aggregates increase the leaflet stiffness and impede normal valve function. Multiple studies have investigated the effects of various biochemical cues on this process, such as transformation growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), on the regulation of nodule formation [1]. Additionally, Yip et al revealed that matrix stiffness controls nodule formation in vitro, with stiffer substrates promoting apoptotic nodule formation, while compliant substrates generated nodules containing cells with osteoblast markers [2]. This suggests that matrix stiffness is involved in the regulatory mechanisms of nodule formation and may initiate different types of nodule formation (i.e. osteogenic vs. dystrophic). In the current study, we examined the synergistic role of strain and TGF-β1 in the generation of calcified nodules AVICs.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Differences in perceptions of managerial roles by gender among southern business students

Perception of the roles necessary for managerial success based on the 10 verbal descriptors of the Mintzberg roles were gathered from 128 business students at a southern U.S. university. The objective was to assess whether these 72 men and 56 women viewed the importance of the roles differently. Ratings were collected on the 10 roles for each of four different types of managers. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, chi-squared analysis, and Spearman rank-order correlation. No differences were observed in the perception of men and women in these roles or of their relative importance.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor-II/Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor Mediates Paracrine Interactions During Spermatogonial Development

The insulin-like growth factor-II/cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate (IGF-II/M6P) receptor transduces signals after binding IGF-II or M6P-bearing growth factors. We hypothesized that this receptor relays paracrine signals between Sertoli cells and spermatogonia in the basal compartment of the seminiferous epithelium. For these studies spermatogonia were isolated from 8-day-old mice with purity >95% and viability >85% after overnight culture. The IGF-II/M6P receptors were present on the surface of spermatogonia, as detected by indirect immunofluorescence. We determined that both IGF-II and M6P-glycoproteins in Sertoli cell conditioned medium (SCM) modulate gene expression in isolated spermatogonia. The IGF-II produced dose-dependent increases in both rRNA and c-fos mRNA. These effects were mediated specifically by IGF-II/M6P receptors, as shown by studies using IGF-II analogues that are specific agonists for either IGF-I or IGF-II receptors. The SCM treatment also induced dose-dependent increases in rRNA levels, and M6P competition showed that this response required interaction with IGF-II/M6P receptors. The M6P-glycoproteins isolated from SCM by IGF-II/M6P receptor affinity chromatography increased spermatogonial rRNA levels at much lower concentrations than required by SCM treatment, providing further evidence for the paracrine activity of Sertoli M6P-glycoproteins. These results demonstrate that Sertoli cells secrete paracrine factors that modulate spermatogonial gene expression after interacting with cell-surface IGF-II/M6P receptors.
Faculty and Student Perceptions of Readiness for Clinical Clerkships

Background: There is a paucity of literature focusing on what students and educators believe constitutes students' readiness for clinical clerkships. The purpose of this study is to gain insight into clinical faculty and students’ perceptions of student readiness for clerkship education. Methods: Educational experts conducted focus groups and semi-structured individual interviews with third-year medical students and faculty who teach in clinical clerkships, including directors of the required rotations. Two authors independently coded the transcribed notes from the interviews to identify themes. Discrepancies were resolved among all authors in an iterative process. Results: Eight students and 15 faculty members participated in the interviews. While faculty focused on the need for students to be able to apply knowledge, be active in their learning, and display professionalism, students discussed their beliefs about why readiness for a “completely new environment” was unattainable. Discussion: Issues that impact perceptions about readiness include: defining professionalism in the context of a hierarchical system, the challenge of transferring learning to apply knowledge in new environments, and the teacher’s role in facilitating and encouraging active learning. The differences in conceptualizations among faculty and students about readiness highlight the need for enhanced communication regarding expectations for students as they enter clinical clerkships.
Novel distributed slot synchronization technique for optical WDM packet networks

Recently, a number of projects aimed at the implementation of optical packet-switched network prototypes have been announced. A common and critical element of these networks is the need to achieve time-slot synchronization over the whole network. Stanford University is currently implementing CORD, a two-node optical wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) packet-switched network testbed with a star topology, featuring all-optical receiver contention resolution by means of optical switches and delay lines. This paper describes a flexible, distributed digital slot synchronization technique for CORD which is robust and scalable.
Rocket-triggered lightning studies for the protection of critical assets

Lightning protection systems (LPSs) for explosives handling and storage facilities have long been designed similarly to those used for more conventional facilities, but their overall effectiveness in controlling interior electromagnetic (EM) environments has still not been rigorously assessed. Frequent lightning-caused failures of a security system installed in earth-covered explosives storage structures prompted the US Army and Sandia National Laboratories to conduct a program to determine quantitatively the EM environments inside an explosives storage structure that is struck by lightning. These environments were measured directly during rocket-triggered lightning (RTL) tests in the summer of 1991 and were computed using linear finite-difference, time-domain (FDTD) EM solvers. The experimental and computational results were first compared in order to validate the code and were then used to construct bounds for interior environments corresponding to severe incident lightning flashes. The code results were also used to develop simple circuit models for the EM field behavior-a process that resulted in a very simple and somewhat surprising physical interpretation of the structure's response that has significant practical and economic implications for design, construction, and maintenance of such facilities. >
Effect of niacin on retinal vascular diameter in patients with age-related macular degeneration

Purpose: Niacin is a B vitamin well-known for causing vasodilation and flushing. The purpose of this study was to investigate its effect on the retinal vasculature of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: Twelve patients with AMD were enrolled in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. Fundus photographs of the posterior pole were taken at baseline, 30 min, and 90 min after a single dose of niacin or placebo. The protocol was repeated after a washout period using the alternate study drug. The diameters of two veins and one artery on each image were measured. Results: An analysis of variance for repeated measures comparing the effects of niacin with those of placebo demonstrated a significant increase in the inferior temporal retinal artery diameter (p = 0.01), with a 5.3 ± 7.7% increase at 30 min (p = 0.05) and 5.8 ± 5.0% increase at 90 min (p = 0.003). No significant changes were observed in the temporal retinal veins. Conclusions: Our results suggest tha...
New Ways of Bowling Together

In his 2000 book Bowling Alone, sociologist Robert Putnam argued that American civic engagement was dying. Now, Peter Hart-Brinson uses research on the convergence of the fitness boom and the creative fundraising efforts of nonprofits to show how civic engagement is being revived as civic recreation. Its social roots are examined, along with its implications for community and democracy.
Bis(2,2′-bipyridine-κ2N,N′)copper(I) trifluoro­methane­sulfonate

In the title compound, [Cu(C10H8N2)2](CF3O3S), the CuI ion is chelated by two 2,2′-bipyridine (bpy) ligands in a distorted tetra­hedral coordination geometry. The average Cu—N bond length is 2.024 (3) A. The inter­ligand dihedral angle is 87.5 (11)°. Weak C—H⋯O hydrogen bonding between the CuI complex cation and the trifluoro­methane­sulfonate anion stabilizes the crystal structure.
A Study of Sex in Television Advertising

This paper reports the findings of a three-phase study into the use of sexuality in TV advertisements. Phase I focuses on identifying ads that contain sexuality. Phase 2 identifies the different ways sexuality is introduced into ads. Phase 3 compares sexual and non-sexual ads in their ability to attract and hold attention, aid in brand recall, and the appropriateness and offen-siveness of sexual content. Methodology and results for all three phases are presented and discussed. Recommendations for advertisers are given and further research is suggested.
Co-editors’ introduction: Every Student Succeeds Act—A policy shift

President Obama signed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) into law on December 10, 2015. This law is the most recent reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965....
Competition between amide stacking and intramolecular H bonds in γ-peptide derivatives: controlling nearest-neighbor preferences.

Resonant two-photon ionization (R2PI), IR-UV holeburning (IR-UV), and resonant ion-dip infrared spectroscopy (RIDIRS) have been used to record mass-selected, single-conformation ultraviolet and infrared spectra of three simple diamide derivatives of γ-amino acids as isolated molecules cooled in a supersonic expansion. This work builds on an earlier study of Ac-γ2-hPhe-NHMe (James, W. H., III, et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc.2009, 131, 14243), which showed that this methyl-capped γ-peptide forms amide-stacked conformations that are similar in stability to H-bonded conformations containing a C9 ring and more stable than C7 H-bonded ring structures. Among the γ-peptides discussed here, Ac-γ2-hPhe-N(Me)2 contains an additional methyl group relative to the previously studied Ac-γ2-hPhe-NHMe and therefore lacks the amide NH group responsible for C9 ring formation. Three conformations of Ac-γ2-hPhe-N(Me)2 are observed, all of which are amide-stacked structures. In a second new molecule, Ac-γ2-hPhe-NH(iPr), the C-termina...
Induction of the 68/72 kDa Heat-Stress Protein in Hydrogen Peroxide Toxicity

The heat shock or stress proteins (HSPs) are synthesized by most mammalian cells in response to hyperthermia and other noxious stimuli (1). Since this response is thought to be a protective reaction by the stressed cell, it has raised much interest, particularly the induction of the 68/72 kDa HSP since this protein is not synthesized constitutively by most cells. In the mammalian nervous system the synthesis of the 68/72 kDa HSP has been induced by trauma, hypoxia-ischemia and heat shock. Capillary endothelial cells and retinal neurons are among cell types suspected of synthesizing these proteins but in most studies the cellular origin has gone undetermined. In-vitro, purified rat glial cells (2) and cortical neurons synthesize the 68/72 kDa HSP (3) in response to heating (45°C) but the data suggest that compared to glia, the neuronal response is attenuated. In these experiments we have studied induction of the 68/72 kDa HSP in response to H2O2.
Combined Ultrasonic and Radionuclide Approach to Biliary-Pancreatic Disease Diagnosis

A series of 500 cases over a six year period in which both diagnostic ultrasound and radioluclide imaging were performed to evaluate possible pancreatico-biliarv tract disease is presented. A normal radionuclide pancreatic scan enjoys a 90% reliability, whereas focal or generalized decreased or absent uptake, is non-specific in nature. The additional information obtained from ultrasonic examination is frequently more valuable and may overshadow other non-invasive as well as sometimes invasive procedures. Forty-five cases of pancreatic carcinoma were discovered. Primary biliarv tract malignancy, CBD stones, pancreatic pseudocysts and pancreatitis were additional conditions found.
The change of methodology in modern revolution of science and technology

The revolution from Copernicus,Newton and Darwin in the field of modern science caused world outlook and methodology to change from theology to science. The revolution from motive power and mass media changed the ways of action among human being.In the 20th century,relativity and quantum mechanics were the beginning to make a breakthrough from Newton's science,and information society created by computer network raised some new problems.The key points of methodology in contemporary lie in the no reversibility in time,the uncertainty about future and the self-organization of systems.
Update on colorectal polyps: management and follow-up surveillance.

Available scientific data and considerable clinical experience indicate that over 95 % of colorectal cancers arise in benign adenomatous polyps that develop and advance very slowly over many years. Interruption of this adenoma-carcinoma sequence by finding and resecting polyps is a highly effective method of preventing colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy is the procedure of choice for both the diagnosis and resection of colorectal polyps. Patients who have had colonoscopic resection of adenomas, and in some cases their close relatives, are at a higher than average risk for developing future polyps and cancer, and likely will benefit from periodic follow-up colonoscopic surveillance. This surveillance should to be tailored to the perceived risk of each individual case depending on the features of the resected adenomas and other patient factors such as family history. Widespread adoption of current polyp guideline recommendations would be highly protective and yet would conserve medical resources.
Ethyl linolenate is elevated in meconium of very-low-birth-weight neonates exposed to alcohol in utero

Ethyl linolenate is elevated in meconium of very-low-birth-weight neonates exposed to alcohol in utero
High fire temperature changes soil aggregate stability in slash-and-burn agricultural systems

Fire is a key controlling factor in ecosystem dynamics worldwide, especially, in tropical areas under slash-and-burn agricultural systems. Farmers use fire as a tool to clean the land, and benefit from nutrient enrichment from ash-soil heating. However, fire can cause some detrimental effects on soil systems, such as organic carbon depletion, increased soil erodibility, and changes to aggregate stability. In this study, an experimental fire was applied to a plot of land following the local traditional practice of slash-and-burn. The fire temperature was monitored in the field, and its effect on soil aggregate stability was assessed. The fire temperature on soil surface was measured in four trenches, and it ranged from 355 to 660 °C (average 484 ± 142 °C). The fire temperature did not affect soil organic matter content. However, aggregate stability increased by 10 % in comparison to unburned soil. Moreover, the geometric mean diameter of burned soil was 20 % higher than that of unburned soil. In conclusion, high fire temperature changes soil aggregate stability in slash-and-burn agricultural systems.
Observation of Photovoltaic Action from Photoacid-Modified Nafion Due to Light-Driven Ion Transport.

Replacing passive ion-exchange membranes, like Nafion, with membranes that use light to drive ion transport would allow membranes in photoelectrochemical technologies to serve in an active role. Toward this, we modified perfluorosulfonic acid ionomer membranes with organic pyrenol-based photoacid dyes to sensitize the membranes to visible light and initiate proton transport. Covalent modification of the membranes was achieved by reacting Nafion sulfonyl fluoride poly(perfluorosulfonyl fluoride) membranes with the photoacid 8-hydroxypyrene-1,3,6-tris(2-aminoethylsulfonamide). The modified membranes were strongly colored and maintained a high selectivity for cations over anions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and ion-exchange measurements together provided strong evidence of covalent bond formation between the photoacids and the polymer membranes. Visible-light illumination of the photoacid-modified membranes resulted in a maximum power-producing ionic photorespon...
Chiral magnetohydrodynamics for heavy-ion collisions

Abstract The chiral magnetic effect (CME) is a macroscopic transport effect resulting from the chiral anomaly. We review the recent progress in theoretical understanding the properties of chiral plasmas, in which the CME and other anomaly-induced transports take place. In particular, the nontrivial interplay of anomalous currents and dynamical electromagnetic fields is discussed. We also review the theoretical status of the modeling of anomalous transport effects in heavy-ion collisions.
Deprivation and the role of taste in food intake

Rats were given single-stimulus feeding tests after varying degrees of food deprivation. Isocaloric diets containing different levels of quinine sulfate were used. Intake was measured after 30, 60, and 120 min of eating. At all deprivation levels and at all intervals, intake was negatively related to QSO4 concentration. While deprivation level increased intake of all diets, it did not influence relative intake among diets. These results do not support the view that the effects of taste on food intake change as a function of deprivation level.