cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structure Calculation of Protein Segments Connecting Domains with Defined Secondary Structure: A Simulated Annealing Monte Carlo Combined with Biased Scaled Collective Variables Technique

A method for modeling segments of proteins that connect regions with defined secondary structure is illustrated with a study of long segments (8–13 amino acids) that include parts of defined secondary structure motifs. Loop structure calculation can be considered a particular case of this more challenging problem. The new algorithm first finds conformations representative of the segment structure tethered to the protein at one terminus only, and subsequently drives the free end of the segment towards its attachment point using a reversed harmonic constrained simulated annealing scheme. An adjustable force constant drives the free terminal towards the attachment point, using the Monte Carlo (MC) technique of scaled collective variables (SCV). Each segment is initially placed in an extended conformation with the N-terminus covalently bound to the protein, and MC simulated annealing is carried out to find the preferred conformations of the segment. The resulting families of conformations prepare the segment for attachment of the C-terminus. In the second stage a hierarchical protocol drives the segment’s C-terminus towards its final position in the protein. The free C-terminus is attached to a dummy residue, identical to the target residue where the segment will be connected. Successive MC simulations are carried out using the SCV method with increasingly larger values of the harmonic force constant that slowly stabilize the free energy surface to ensure the correct orientation of the segment region with the rest of the system. The performance of the method was evaluated for eight segments in the a-subunit of the G protein transducin for which a high-resolution X-ray crystal structure (2.0 A) is available. The calculation was performed using the all-atom representation and the CHARMM force field with the electrostatic effects of the solvent described implicitly by the new SCP general continuum model. The segments that are most exposed to solvent are found to be represented best with this method.
Understanding Comparative Marketing Systems Through Channel Mapping

International marketing and distribution remain important topics, especially in transitional and developing economies. In this article, the importance of efficient distribution of resources and products is discussed, and channel mapping is presented as a method to address both the analysis and design of physical goods distribution in transitional and developing economies. Keywords: comparative marketing systems; channel mapping; distribution systems; infrastructure
Abstract W P236: Predictors of thrombolysis in Young Adults with Ischemic Stroke

Introduction: Approximately 10% to 22.5% of ischemic strokes occur in young adults (18-49 years). We examined factors associated with IV tPA use in young adult stroke (YAS) patients. Methods: Using our institutional GWTG database, we analyzed 5,120 consecutive stroke admissions (01/2004 - 03/2013). Univariate and multivariable models explored factors associated with IV tPA use. Results: YAS comprised 12% of the cohort (n=619). Compared to older adults, YAS patients were more often Hispanic and non-Caucasian, had significantly less vascular risk factors and lower median NIHSS scores. Fifteen percent (n=94) of YAS patients received IV tPA. Atrial fibrillation was present in 3.4% YAS cases (all above age 38). In univariate analysis, factors associated with IV tPA use in the YAS cohort included Caucasian race, atrial fibrillation and higher NIHSS, but only atrial fibrillation and higher NIHSS were independently associated with tPA use in multivariable analysis (Table). Of all YAS patients receiving IV tPA, 2/94 (2.1%) had symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and another 2/94 (2.1%) had serious systemic hemorrhage within 36hr of IV tPA administration. Conclusion: In the YAS population, those with higher NIHSS scores and atrial fibrillation are more likely to receive IV tPA. These data suggest that more severe strokes and those with a recognized cardioembolic mechanism are more likely to get thrombolysis. Reassuringly, the rate of IV tPA bleeding complications is quite low in YAS patients. Further studies should investigate reasons for non-treatment with thrombolysis and outcomes in YAS patients with less severe presentations. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Home and Community‐Based Medicaid Options for Dependent Older Floridians

In an era of widespread state budget constraints, Florida has been increasingly challenged to provide long-term care services to a growing population of older dependent persons. The high costs of nursing home care have led the state to implement care management alternatives that offer potential for cost savings along with greater consumer satisfaction through maintenance of community residence. Although these alternative care approaches represent important opportunities to contain costs, it is equally important that professional care providers and policymakers understand how such programs operate. Here the Florida experience with eight home and community-based waiver models, in addition to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, are summarized and a comparative analysis offered that may enlighten the efforts of other states to establish cost-effective and attractive care management models.
Group actions related to non-vanishing elements

‎We characterize those groups $G$ and vector spaces $V$ such that $V$ is a faithful irreducible $G$-module and such that each $v$ in $V$ is centralized by a $G$-conjugate of a fixed non-identity element of the Fitting subgroup $F(G)$ of $G$‎. ‎We also determine those $V$ and $G$ for which $V$ is a faithful quasi-primitive $G$-module and $F(G)$ has no regular orbit‎. ‎We do use these to show in some cases that a non-vanishing element lies in $F(G)$‎.
Facilitating physician reentry to practice: perceived effects of deployments on US army pediatricians' clinical and procedural skills.

Introduction US Army pediatricians regularly deploy for 6 to 12 months or longer and many are deployed multiple times during their career. Prolonged breaks in pediatric clinical practice may result in skill degradation, requiring a physician reentry process to prepare pediatricians to return to clinical practice. This study sought to identify which specific pediatric clinical skills were felt to be most affected by deployment. Methods Army pediatricians on active duty between January 2012 and March 2012 were surveyed via e-mail to determine their comfort level and experience with clinical encounters and procedural skills prior to and after military deployment. Results Eighty-three pediatricians were eligible, and 75 responded (90% response rate). Of those received, 65 surveys (78%) were complete and included in the statistical analysis. Over half (54%) of the respondents were deployed longer than 6 months, and 32% were deployed for 12 months or longer. The largest changes in reported comfort were seen in neonatal, pediatric, and adolescent acute care and neonatal routine care, including neonatal and pediatric procedures. There was a significant negative correlation (r = .64; p = .003) between provider's reported exposure to neonatal and pediatric clinical encounters during deployment and provider's comfort with those clinical encounters after deployment. Discussion US Army pediatricians are required to deploy for extended periods of time and have limited opportunities to practice the full range of their pediatric skills. This break in clinical practice is associated with a significant decline in perceived comfort with both routine and acute pediatric care.
Domination problem for vector measures and applications to nonstationary processes

Abstract : In this paper the question of finite p-variation and its representation (via the Radon-Nikodym theory) will not be considered beyond its comparison, even though it is useful in the integral representation of certain linear operations. On the other hand, the problem of finite p-semi-variation has immediate interest for certain stochastic process representations, and that will be treated in a reasonably detailed fashion for a class of vector measures.
Identification of contacts between topoisomerase I and its target DNA by site‐specific photocrosslinking.

Abstract Vaccinia DNA topoisomerase, a eukaryotic type I enzyme, binds and cleaves duplex DNA at sites containing the sequence 5'-(T/C)CCTT. We report the identification of Tyr70 as the site of contact between the enzyme and the +4C base of its target site. This was accomplished by UV-crosslinking topoisomerase to bromocytosine-substituted DNA, followed by isolation and sequencing of peptide-DNA photoadducts. A model for the topoisomerase-DNA interface is proposed, based on the crystal structure of a 9 kDa N-terminal tryptic fragment. The protein domain fits into the DNA major groove such that Tyr70 is positioned close to the +4C base and Tyr72 is situated near the +3C base. Mutational analysis indicates that Tyr70 and Tyr72 contribute to site recognition during covalent catalysis. We propose, based on this and other studies of the vaccinia protein, that DNA backbone recognition and reaction chemistry are performed by a relatively well-conserved 20 kDa C-terminal portion of the vaccinia enzyme, whereas discrimination of the DNA sequence at the cleavage site is accomplished by a separate N-terminal domain, which is less conserved between viral and cellular proteins. Division of function among distinct structural modules may explain the different site specificities of the eukaryotic type I topoisomerases.
The Strategy of Sponsorship

Sponsorship strategies bolster and subsidise allies who share America's interests and are motivated to implement them.
Apparent Loss and Hypertrophy of Interneurons in a Mouse Model of Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: Evidence for Partial Response to Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Treatment

The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCL) are progressive neurodegenerative disorders with onset from infancy to adulthood that are manifested by blindness, seizures, and dementia. In NCL, lysosomes accumulate autofluorescent proteolipid in the brain and other tissues. The mnd/mnd mutant mouse was first characterized as exhibiting adult-onset upper and lower motor neuron degeneration, but closer examination revealed early, widespread pathology similar to that seen in NCL. We used the autofluorescent properties of accumulated storage material to map which CNS neuronal populations in the mnd/mnd mouse show NCL-like pathological changes. Pronounced, early accumulation of autofluorescent lipopigment was found in subpopulations of GABAergic neurons, including interneurons in the cortex and hippocampus. Staining for phenotypic markers normally present in these neurons revealed progressive loss of staining in the cortex and hippocampus of mnd/mnd mice, with pronounced hypertrophy of remaining detectable interneurons. In contrast, even in aged mutant mice, many hippocampal interneurons retained staining for glutamic acid decarboxylase. Treatment with insulin-like growth factor-1 partially restored interneuronal number and reduced hypertrophy in some subregions. These results provide the first evidence for the involvement of interneurons in a mouse model of NCL. Moreover, our findings suggest that at least some populations of these neurons persist in a growth factor-responsive state.
Estimating 3D egomotion from perspective image sequence

The computation of sensor motion from sets of displacement vectors obtained from consecutive pairs of images is discussed. The problem is investigated with emphasis on its application to autonomous robots and land vehicles. The effects of 3D camera rotation and translation upon the observed image are discussed, particularly the concept of the focus of expansion (FOE). It is shown that locating the FOE precisely is difficult when displacement vectors are corrupted by noise and errors. A more robust performance can be achieved by computing a 2D region of possible FOE locations (termed the fuzzy FOE) instead of looking for a single-point FOE. The shape of this FOE region is an explicit indicator of the accuracy of the result. It has been shown elsewhere that given the fuzzy FOE, a number of powerful inferences about the 3D sense structure and motion become possible. Aspects of computing the fuzzy FOE are emphasized, and the performance of a particular algorithm on real motion sequences taken from a moving autonomous land vehicle is shown. >
Maximum Walking Speed Is a Key Determinant of Long Distance Walking Function After Stroke

AbstractBackground: Walking dysfunctions persist following poststroke rehabilitation. A major limitation of current rehabilitation efforts is the inability to identify modifiable deficits that, when improved, will result in the recovery of walking function. Previous studies have relied on cross-sectional analyses to identify deficits to target during walking rehabilitation; however, these studies did not account for the influence of a key covariate – maximum walking speed. Objective: To determine the relationships between commonly studied poststroke variables and the long-distance walking function of individuals poststroke when controlling for maximum walking speed. Methods: Correlation analyses of cross-sectional data from 57 individuals more than 6 months poststroke measured the relationships between standing balance, walking balance, balance self-efficacy, lower extremity motor function, and maximum walking speed versus long-distance walking function. For a subgroup of subjects who completed training, ...
A Kinetic Monte Carlo study on the dynamic switching properties of electrochemical metallization RRAMs during the SET process

In this paper, a simulation process based on Kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) for an electrochemical metallization (ECM) resistive RAM (RRAM) is demonstrated. This simulation tool can investigate all the major dynamics properties of such devices. In particular, the voltage sweep rate dependent I–V characteristics, the variations of SET voltage, writing speed, on-state resistance, filament overgrowth phenomena and the effect of material properties are studied.
Educating Both Halves of the Brain

(1976). Educating Both Halves of the Brain. Childhood Education: Vol. 53, No. 1, pp. 17-20.
Role of principal component filter banks in noise reduction

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the optimality properties of principal component filter-banks for various noise reduction schemes. Optimization of filter-banks (FB's) for coding gain maximization has been carried out in the literature, and the optimized solutions have been observed to satisfy the principal component property, which hasindependently been studied. Here we show a strong connection between the optimality and the principal componentproperty; which allows us to optimize FB's for many other objectives. Thus, we consider the noise-reduction scheme where a noisy signal is analyzed using a FB and the subband signals are processed either using a hard-thresholdoperation or a zeroth order Wiener filter. For these situations, we show that a principal component FB is again optimal in the sense of minimizing the expected mean-square error. Keywords: Principal Component Filter-Banks, noise-reduction1. INTRODUCTION A generic filter-bank based signal processing scheme is shown in Fig. 1 .
Expandable Metallic Stents Applied to Benign Bronchostenosis

Tandem Gianturco expandable metallic stents (GEMSs) with barbs were inserted to dilate the left main bronchus of a 38-year-old man who had developed left bronchostenosis due to bronchial tuberculosis. Through the use of these GEMSs, ventilation in the left lung remarkably improved; however, the central airway resistance was found to be greater than that exhibited by the normal side and the mucociliary transport function was reduced.
LPS-induced CD11b+Gr1intF4/80+ regulatory myeloid cells suppress allergen-induced airway inflammation

In humans, the bacterial product lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been associated with protection from allergic diseases such us asthma. However, in mouse models of allergic asthma, differential effects of LPS have been noted based on the dose. A low dose of LPS promotes Th2 responses and allergic disease but a high dose has been associated with suppression of allergic airway inflammation. Our recent work has described the ability of LPS to increase the frequency of CD11b+Gr1(int)F4/80+(abbreviated as Gr1(int) cells) cells in the lung tissue of mice in a dose-dependent fashion that is dependent on TLR4 and the TLR adaptor protein, MyD88. Both phenotypically and morphologically, the cells were found to have similarities with mycloid-derived suppressor cells. Adoptive transfer of LPS-induced Gr1(int) cells suppressed allergen-induced airway inflammation suggesting regulatory functions of the cells in allergic asthma. Although the Gr1(int) cells are detectable in the lung tissue of LPS-treated mice, they are barely detectable in the lung-draining lymph nodes (Lns) or in the airway lumen. This causes selective enrichment of these cells over dendritic cells (Dcs) in the tissue which upon LPS stimulation migrate to lung-draining LNs. The Gr1(int) cells were found to blunt the ability of the lung DCs to upregulate GATA-3 or to promote STAT5 activation in primed Th2 cells, both transcription factors having critical roles in TH2 effector function. Thus, a complete understanding of the generation and regulation of the Gr1(int) cells would provide new avenues to either promote or delete these cells for disease-specific immunoregulation.
The general equilibrium effects of congestion externalities

Abstract This is the second in a series of three articles on the topic of congestion externalities. We use an urban general-equilibrium model to compute two types of cities: the market-equilibrium city, in which congestion externalities occur, and the optimum city. The optimum city has a more dispersed distribution of employment, and a more concentrated distribution of residence. If the population of the city is fixed, the optimum pricing of transportation generates a per capita welfare gain of $3.78 per week. If the population of the city is endogenous, the internalization of congestion externalities causes the city to grow.
Infectivity of influenza B virus in cultured human muscle

Severe muscle symtoms, particularly in children, are frequently associated with influenza B virus infection. In this study we examined the effects of influenza B virus (Lee Strain) on cultured human muscle by light and electron microscopy (EM), immunofluorescence, hemadsorption and plaque assays. Muscle injury was also evaluated by the appearance of muscle-specific creatine kinase (CK) in the culture medium. By fluorescence immunocytochemistry viral antigen was demonstrated in muscle cell nuclei within 3h postinoculation (p.i.) and in the cytoplasm at 6 h p.i. Membrane-associated viral antigen was seen at 16 h p.i., at which time budding influenza virus-like particles could be demonstrated by EM, both in myoblasts and multinucleated myotubes. At 16 h all cells were hemadsorption positive. Plaque assays showed peak virus production at 48 h (p.i.), at which time cytopathic effects (cell retraction, pycnosis and cytoplasmic vacuolization) were prominent and some cells detached from the substratum. Leakage of muscle-specific CK isozyme into the culture medium could be demonstrated as early as 6 h p.i. with peak enzyme activity around 40–48 h p.i. Cytopathic changes and virus production were observed both in myoblasts and myotubes indicating that both cell types are susceptible.
Inclusive π0 electroproduction in the deep inelastic region

Abstract Using 20.5 GeV electrons on protons, we measured inclusive π0's (of transverse momentum, pT, from 0 to 1.4 GeV/c) produced by virtual photons of energy, ν, from 4 to 16.5 GeV and four-momentum squared, q2, from −1.8 to −8.5 (GeV/c)2. Comparing with charged pion data, we find σ π 0 = 1 2 (σ π + + σ π − ) , supporting the quark model. Photon knockout of a quark is favored as the interpretation of these data because of scaling in z = Eπ/ν and similarity in z-dependence of other pion production data. Consistent with this interpretation are the dependence of 〈pT〉 on q2, the azimuthal dependence, and fits to the constituent interchange model. We also observe a possible pT−4 dependence at large |q2| over a limited pT range.
X-ray fabric analysis of hot-worked and annealed flint.

Two specimens of flint described by Green have been subjected to intensive x-ray fabric analysis. The specimen compressed in the β-quartz field recrystallized to a fabric with a strong maximum of c-axes parallel to the direction of compression and a weaker equatorial concentration perpendicular to the axis of compression. Annealing of a similar specimen eliminated the equatorial concentration and strengthened the axial concentration six- to eightfold. In the latter specimen, the fabric determined by x-ray analysis agrees closely with Green9s optically measured fabric. It is possible to obtain c-axis fabrics directly from the very weak 0003 diffraction peak.
Consumer misbehavior: why people buy illicit goods

Trade in contraband amounts to billions of dollars each year, and yet the buyers of these products are still a mystery. The purpose of this study was to model the decision to purchase illicit goods, using four predictor measures: product type, buying situation, perceived criminal risk, and price. Part‐worth conjoint analysis was used to obtain individual weights of main effects and selected interaction effects on the willingness to purchase. Individual respondents evaluated the purchase of illicit goods differently. Cluster analysis was used to segment the respondents. Discriminant analysis was used to assess variable importance. The overall model was shown to be significant. Although the results varied by cluster, the main effects of product type, buying situation and price were all significant predictors of willingness to buy. The interactions of risk with product type and price with product type were also significant predictors for some clusters.
Gonadotropin secreting giant cell carcinoma of the lung.

A case report of a habitual smoker with pulmonary tuberculosis and carcinoma of the left upper lobe associated with gynecomastia is presented. After excision of the left upper lobe, the patient remained well for 21/2 years but then showed clinical evidence of recurrence and died 6 months later of carcinoma. He had gynecomastia and, during his terminal hospitalization, chorionic gonadotropin was identified in his urine. Postmortem studies revealed giant cell carcinoma of the left lower lobe with widespread metastasis. Assays of extracts from tumor tissue indicated high levels of gonadotropic activity. Morphologic manifestations of endocrinopathy were represented by gynecomastia, interstitial cell hyperplasia of the testes, and presence of “pregnancy-like” cells in the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. The mechanism whereby the gynecomastia is produced may be the release of estrogen following long-term stimulation of the testes by gonadotropin. Atrophy of the seminiferous tubules due to antecedent mumps orchids was a predisposing factor that favored the severe hyperplasia of the interstitial cells.
Exponential sums and rectangular partitions

Abstract Let F denote a finite field with q=pf elements, and let σ(A) equal the trace of the square matrix A. This paper evaluates exponential sums of the form S(E,X1,…,Xn)e{−σ(CX1⋯XnE)}, where S(E,X1,…,Xn) denotes a summation over all matrices E,X1,…,Xn of appropriate sizes over F, and C is a fixed matrix. This evaluation is then applied to the problem of counting ranked solutions to matrix equations of the form U1⋯UαA+DV1⋯Vβ=B where A,B,D are fixed matrices over F.
Endonucleolytic cleavage of eukaryotic mRNAs with stalls in translation elongation

A fundamental aspect of the biogenesis and function of eukaryotic messenger RNA is the quality control systems that recognize and degrade non-functional mRNAs. Eukaryotic mRNAs where translation termination occurs too soon (nonsense-mediated decay) or fails to occur (non-stop decay) are rapidly degraded. We show that yeast mRNAs with stalls in translation elongation are recognized and targeted for endonucleolytic cleavage, referred to as 'no-go decay'. The cleavage triggered by no-go decay is dependent on translation and involves Dom34p and Hbs1p. Dom34p and Hbs1p are similar to the translation termination factors eRF1 and eRF3 (refs 3, 4), indicating that these proteins might function in recognizing the stalled ribosome and triggering endonucleolytic cleavage. No-go decay provides a mechanism for clearing the cell of stalled translation elongation complexes, which could occur as a result of damaged mRNAs or ribosomes, or as a mechanism of post-transcriptional control.
Optically transparent superhydrophobic silica-based coatings

Optically transparent superhydrophobic silica-based coatings were obtained by means of sol-gel processing and self-assembling. Superhydrophobicity was achieved through a combination of enhanced surface roughness by incorporating nanoclusters and modification of surface chemistry by self-assembly. The self-assembly monolayer (SAM) was prepared using the chemical coupling reaction between chlorosilyl groups and hydroxylated coating surface. The optical transparence of such hydrophobic coatings was found to be higher than 95%, which is attributed to the fact that the roughness scale is too small to scatter the visible light. The water contact angle was of approximately 150°.
Analytical calculation for probability of detection given time-dependent search parameters

The problem solved in this paper is easily stated: given search parameters (p∞, τ) that are known functions of time, calculate how the probability a single observer acquires a target grows with time. This problem has been solved analytically. In this paper we describe the analytical solution and provide derivations of the results. Comparison with perception experiments will be reported in a future publication and hopefully will support the results presented here. The provided solution is applicable to any scenario where the search parameters are changing with time and are specified. In particular, the solution can be used to estimate the probability of target acquisition as a function of time: (1) when the sensor-target range is changing, (2) for a slewed sensor where the target is alternately in and out of the field of view, and (3) for a sensor that switches between wide and narrow fields of view.
Follicular stimulation by chronic treatment with synthetic lh-releasing hormone in hypophysectomized female rats bearing pituitary grafts

Adult, female rats hypophysectomized 12–14 days previously received pituitary homografts under the kidney capsule. Ten to 12 days later they were treated for 10 or 51 days with 5 Mμ synthetic LH—releasing hormone (LHRH) in 8% gelatin solution sc twice daily or with the vehicle only as a control. The rats were sacrificed 2– to 4–hr after the last injection. Ten days treatment with LH—RH did not change body or ovarian weight, serum LH, prolactin and estrogen levels, but increased serum FSH levels. Fiftyone days’ treatment with LH—RH did not alter body weight or serum LH and prolactin but increased ovarian and uterine weight, as well as serum FSH and estrogen levels. The ovaries of the LH—RH treated animals showed marked follicular stimulation; this was most striking in the rats treated for 51 days. Electron micrographs of the pituitary grafts showed the expected preponderance of prolactin cells which were not appreciably altered by the LH—RH treatment. The most striking effect of LH—RH was a stimulation of ...
Geographically variable response of Dendroctonus ponderosae to winter warming in the western United States

Context Milder winters have contributed to recent outbreaks of Dendroctonus ponderosae in Canada, but have not been evaluated as a factor permitting concurrent outbreaks across its large range (ca.1500 × 1500 km) in the western United States (US).
Universal cubic equation of state and contact values of the radial distribution functions for multi-component additive hard-sphere mixtures

A universal cubic equation of state (UC EOS) is proposed based on a modification of the virial Percus-Yevick (PY) integral equation EOS for hard-sphere fluid. The UC EOS is extended to multi-component hard-sphere mixtures based on a modification of Lebowitz solution of PY equation for hard-sphere mixtures. And expressions of the radial distribution functions at contact (RDFC) are improved with the form as simple as the original one. The numerical results for the compressibility factor and RDFC are in good agreement with the simulation results. The average errors of the compressibility factor relative to MC data are 3.40%, 1.84% and 0.92% for CP3P, BMCSL equations and UC EOS, respectively. The UC EOS is a unique cubic one with satisfactory precision among many EOSs in the literature both for pure and mixture fluids of hard spheres.
Distributed Parameter Acoustic Modeling of a Perforation With Bias Flow

Perforated acoustic liners (screech liners) with bias flow are commonly used for mitigation of thermoacoustic instabilities in augmentors. In addition to cooling the liner, the flow of air thru the liner perforation (dubbed ‘bias flow’) improves the damping effectiveness of the liner thru enhancing its energy dissipation. These liners are currently being designed using empirical design rules followed by build-test-improve steps, basically trial and error. The development of physics-based tools to assist in the design of such liners is of great interest to practitioners. In this paper, the existing work in developing analytical, semi-empirical, and numerical techniques such as Large-Eddy Simulations (LES) in exploring the damping effectiveness of an acoustic liner with bias flow are reviewed. The paper continues with presenting the research in progress that has been conducted by the authors in this area with the goal of expanding the numerical modeling work beyond the current state of the art by including the variables that were not incorporated in previous studies including, but not limited to, hole orientation, combined effect of tangential grazing flow and bias flow interaction with acoustics, and different flow characteristics (Mach and Reynolds number). In addition, the spatial distribution of pressure and velocity over the aperture area (instead of the current practice of averaging these variables) are being looked at.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Inaccuracy of three-finger pinch method of determining salt content in homemade sugar salt solutions

Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) has dramatically reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with acute infectious diarrhea. Commercial oral rehydration salt (ORS) solutions with sodium concentrations of 30–90 mmol/L are ideal for both the prevention and treatment of dehydration. However, logistic issues impede their universal availability and homemade sugar salt (HSS) solutions are widely used in some areas of the world. The least accurate methods of preparing HSS solutions utilize a three-finger pinch of salt. The present study demonstrates the inconsistency and inaccuracy of this method among 15 health workers who participated in an ORT training seminar conducted in a situation that approximated field conditions. Similar studies with different subjects, instructions, and milieu describe results similar to those we obtained. In all studies, including the present one, a substantial number of the solutions prepared by this method had dangerously high or low sodium concentrations. Health providers should consider the use of selected home-available fluids rather than HSS solutions for the prevention of dehydration in children with diarrhea. However, ORS solutions should be used to correct established dehydration.
Repeat Median Sternotomy in Pediatrics: Experience in 164 Consecutive Cases

Abstract One hundred thirty-eight children underwent 164 operations through repeat median sternotomy. Ages ranged from 4 months to 21 years (mean, 8.6 ± 5.0 years). The technique consisted of opening the sternum with chisel and mallet, avoidance of sudden separation of sternal edges and blunt dissection, elimination of the electrocautery during lysis of adhesions, and judicious use of fresh blood and components. Several variables were analyzed comparing the initial and repeat procedures on each patient. Time from incision to bypass was an hour longer with the repeat procedure (174 ± 45 minutes versus 96 ± 37 minutes). Operative transfusions and postoperative bleeding (first 48 hours) were not significantly different between the two procedures. Cyanosis, however, significantly increased bleeding in both groups. There were eight injuries (5%) at reoperation. During sternal reentry in 2 patients, a tear occurred in a valved conduit coursing underneath the sternum. A right ventricular tear occurred in 1 patient while the sternal edges were being separated. Ventricular fibrillation was noted in 2 patients during lysis of adhesions with the electrocautery used early in the series. Intimal disruption occurred in two valved conduits during intraoperative manipulations. An aortic tear occurred and was repaired without cardiopulmonary bypass. There were 13 (8%) hospital deaths, all unrelated to the technique. We believe that the current approach can be a valuable alternative for surgeons dealing with repeat median sternotomy in children.
A Redetermination of Some Optical Properties of Calcium Fluoride

This paper gives refractive-index values at 24°C for a synthetic and a natural prism of calcium fluoride. Measurements were made by the minimum-deviation method at 46 calibrated wavelengths from 0.23 μ in the ultraviolet to 9.7 μ in the infrared. The indices of the synthetic prism were fitted to a three-term Sellmeier dispersion formula of the form: n2 − 1 = ∑Ajλ2/(λ2 − λj2). Dispersive quantities were computed which estimate the expected relative dispersion, chromatic aberration, and resolution of CaF2 as a function of wavelength. Values of dn/dt are also given. The results of this work are compared with previously reported data.
Optimizing results and techniques of mesenteric lengthening in ileal pouch-anal anastomosis*

Background The techniques for ileoanal pull-through procedures have been well described previously. However, little attention has been given to the techniques to maximize ileal mesenteric length. Furthermore, no studies have provided data that support the technical recommendations. The purposes of this study are to describe our technique for ileal pouch construction and ileal mesenteric lengthening, and to provide data supporting our recommendations. Patients and methods The operative summaries of 74 consecutive ileal J-pouch-anal anastomosis procedures were reviewed with attention to the management of the mesenteric vasculature. Results Complete data with respect to the handling of the mesenteric circulation were available for 66 cases. Ileal J-pouch-anal anastomoses were achieved with both the ileal branch of the superior mesenteric artery and the ileocolic artery intact in 23% of cases. The ileocolic artery was divided in 48% of cases, and the ileal branch of the superior mesenteric artery was divided in 29% of cases. In addition, one or more distal arcade vessels between the vasa recta and the ileocolic artery were divided in 18% of cases. Ileal J-pouch-anal anastomosis was possible in all 74 patients. Conclusions These data emphasize the variability in mesenteric circulation and the complexity of pouch construction in patients under-going ileoanal pull-through procedures. However, with attention to the techniques described, ileal J-pouch-anal anastomoses should be possible in virtually all patients.
Reduction of plasma prolactin by acute administration of CB-154 in ovariectomized F344 and Holtzman rats treated with diethylstilbestrol: A comparison of RIA and Nb2 lymphoma bioassay

Fischer 344 (F344) and Holtzman Sprague-Dawley female rats were ovariectomized and implanted with a s.c. Silastic capsule of diethylstilbestrol (DES). At 1, 4 and 8 weeks of DES exposure, blood samples were obtained by infraorbital sinus puncture under light ether anesthesia before and 2 hours after s.c. administration of CB-154 (2.5 mg/rat). The plasma obtained was assayed for prolactin by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and Nb2 lymphoma cell bioassay (BA). At 1 week of DES treatment plasma prolactin in F344 rats measured by RIA was decreased by CB-154 (approximately 60%) whereas the level measured by BA was not changed and the BA:RIA ratio was increased from 2.4 +/- 0.2 to 4.8 +/- 0.9. CB-154 decreased plasma prolactin levels at 4 weeks but the effect seen by RIA (approximately 80%) was greater than that seen by BA (approximately 60%) and the BA:RIA ratio was increased (2.2 +/- 0.2 vs 3.4 +/- 0.5). By 8 weeks of DES exposure, CB-154 was as effective in reducing the levels measured by BA (approximately 89%) as those measured by RIA (approximately 85%) and the BA: RIA was not affected by the dopamine agonist. In Holtzman rats CB-154 decreased prolactin levels measured by RIA and BA to the same extent at both 1 and 4 weeks resulting in no change in the BA:RIA ratio, but at 8 weeks the BA:RIA was decreased by CB-154 (2.1 +/- 0.1 to 1.7 +/- 0.1). As was observed in F344 rats, the reduction in plasma prolactin induced by CB-154 increased as the duration of DES treatment increased (1 week approximately 45%; 4 weeks approximately 55-60%; 8 weeks approximately 80-85% inhibition) regardless of assay method. It is concluded that DES increases the BA:RIA ratio of plasma prolactin and that acute CB-154 treatment increases, decreases or does not change the BA:RIA ratio depending on the strain of rat used and the duration of DES treatment.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA): Pros and Cons

Facing the paradox of rising health care expenditure and an average life expectancy that is below the advanced (OECD) economies, the US has embarked on a massive health system strengthening exercise that has had no equivalent during the last half century. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) is prescribed as the ultimate remedy for a chronic market failure in providing adequate access to the health care for about 10 % of the US population and bending the rising cost curve. The ACA is the most comprehensive reform of the US health care system since President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the amendments to the Social Security Act on July 30, 1965 creating Medicaid and Medicare. Whether ACA can meet the higher demands for health care (provider) services, while reducing the cost of services and avoiding the law of unintended consequences in a complex market economy, is of interest to a broad range of scholars and the policy makers. The growth in health care costs challenges the health of nations and the fiscal balance of their governments. The average cost of health insurance policy (average annual premium) has more than doubled since 1990. During 2012, annual health insurance premiums reached $5,615 per person. In 2012, average health insurance premiums increase 3–4 %, which was a much lower increase than that of 9 % during 2011. The ACA is a bold effort in advancing the health of a nation, improving access and equity, and reducing costs (expenditures) within the US health care system. Apart from the challenges that the ACA has faced so far, its implementation in the 50 states and the District of Columbia will require fine-tuning intergovernmental fiscal relationships while expanding regulatory bodies and guarding against regulatory capture. Hence, the economic consequences of such an important overhaul by a complex law may depend not only on the fine details of the law and subsequent regulations but also on the regulators and what they beneficially implement in their uncontested domains. This issue of the Journal of Family and Economic Issues includes two invited papers taking different approaches to examining the efficacy of ACA in achieving its goals. In the first paper, Michael Tanner provides a dissenting view of the ACA and argues that the law not only will fail to provide its intended universal coverage but also it will fail in its attempt to control the rising health care costs. Tanner also indicates that the ACA may even lead to higher health care costs for the government, certain businesses, and individuals. In the second paper, Roby et al. approach their examination of the ACA by focusing on the State of California and use a simulation model (CalSIM) to represent the underlying complexities in the application of the ACA to the health insurance coverage in California. This allows Roby et al. to model the impact of the ACA and the individual mandate on Californians. Roby and colleagues find that by 2019 the ACA will expand health insurance coverage to 38 % of those who are eligible but are uninsured.
Heterogeneity in Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Practices Among Female Hispanic Immigrants in the United States

This study examined differences in cervical and breast cancer (CC and BC) screening among a heterogeneous group of Hispanic women. Data from 247 women (mean age = 38.7 ± 13.3) from Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and countries throughout Central and South America regarding participation in Pap smears, mammography, clinical breast exam (CBE) and breast self-exams (BSE), CC and BC knowledge, and acculturation were analyzed. Differences in CBE and BSE screening behaviors were found based on country of origin (P < .01). However, after adjusting for the independent variables, only acculturation and knowledge remained significant correlates to BSE and CBE (P < .01). Dominican women had higher BC knowledge scores (P < .01) adhered most to BC screening guidelines. Heterogeneity in BC and CC screening was found among Hispanic sub-groups and suggests that health promotion programs should be tailored appropriately, particularly among recent immigrants.
Impacts of Elevated Atmospheric CO2 and O3 on Forests: Phytochemistry, Trophic Interactions, and Ecosystem Dynamics

Prominent among the many factors now affecting the sustainability of forest ecosystems are anthropogenically-generated carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone (O3). CO2 is the substrate for photosynthesis and thus can accelerate tree growth, whereas O3 is a highly reactive oxygen species and interferes with basic physiological functions. This review summarizes the impacts of CO2 and O3 on tree chemical composition and highlights the consequences thereof for trophic interactions and ecosystem dynamics. CO2 and O3 influence phytochemical composition by altering substrate availability and biochemical/physiological processes such as photosynthesis and defense signaling pathways. Growth of trees under enriched CO2 generally leads to an increase in the C/N ratio, due to a decline in foliar nitrogen and concomitant increases in carbohydrates and phenolics. Terpenoid levels generally are not affected by atmospheric CO2 concentration. O3 triggers up-regulation of antioxidant defense pathways, leading to the production of simple phenolics and flavonoids (more so in angiosperms than gymnosperms). Tannins levels generally are unaffected, while terpenoids exhibit variable responses. In combination, CO2 and O3 exert both additive and interactive effects on tree chemical composition. CO2-and O3-mediated changes in plant chemistry influence host selection, individual performance (development, growth, reproduction), and population densities of herbivores (primarily phytophagous insects) and soil invertebrates. These changes can effect shifts in the amount and temporal pattern of forest canopy damage and organic substrate deposition. Decomposition rates of leaf litter produced under elevated CO2 and O3 may or may not be altered, and can respond to both the independent and interactive effects of the pollutants. Overall, however, CO2 and O3 effects on decomposition will be influenced more by their impacts on the quantity, rather than quality, of litter produced. A prominent theme to emerge from this and related reviews is that the effects of elevated CO2 and O3 on plant chemistry and ecological interactions are highly context- and species-specific, thus frustrating attempts to identify general, global patterns. Many of the interactions that govern above- and below-ground community and ecosystem processes are chemically mediated, ultimately influencing terrestrial carbon sequestration and feeding back to influence atmospheric composition. Thus, the discipline of chemical ecology is fundamentally important for elucidating the impacts of humans on the health and sustainability of forest ecosystems. Future research should seek to increase the diversity of natural products, species, and biomes studied; incorporate long-term, multi-factor experiments; and employ a comprehensive “genes to ecosystems” perspective that couples genetic/genomic tools with the approaches of evolutionary and ecosystem ecology.
Social Areas and Durkheim's Theory of Suicide:

A reformulation of Durkheim's model of social integration and suicide rates was tested using social survey and census data for social area populations in Flint, Michigan. The hypothesis predicts: the more integrated a social-area population, the lower its suicide rate. It is concluded that the concept of social area defines an adequate unit of analysis for testing Durkheim's model, and the empirical data support Durkheim's original formulation.
Mantle Convection in the Earth and Planets

“How were the continents formed?” “Did layered mantle convection ever occur?” “Has the Earth always had a geodynamo?” These are some of the 159 questions that Schubert, Turcotte, and Olson use to provide a framework for their overview of convection related processes that affect Earth and other planets. Some of these questions have been answered; some continue to be the subject of active research and even heated debates after 3 decades of study; and others may be unanswerable. The authors return to their questions at the end of the book to summarize what is known and to identify the key unanswered questions in mantle convection. While this is not the most subtle way to guide readers through a book, I appreciate the structure and clarity provided by these questions. Moreover, I found it helpful to have a concise statement of the reasons for studying various aspects of mantle convection.
Plasma C-reactive protein concentration is not affected by isocaloric dietary fat reduction

Abstract Objective There is a strong correlation between plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration and risk of cardiovascular death. Low-fat diets have been recommended for maintenance of cardiovascular health, and it is known that a low-fat diet associated with weight loss lowers CRP concentration. However, it remains unclear whether dietary fat has an effect independent from weight change on markers of inflammation. Methods Sixteen overweight subjects who were 46 ± 14 y old were placed on a weight-maintaining baseline diet consisting of 35% fat, 45% carbohydrate, and 20% energy as protein. After 2 wk, subjects were switched to an isocaloric low-fat diet consisting of 15% fat, 65% carbohydrate, and 20% protein for another 2 wk. For the final 12 wk of the study, subjects consumed the same 15% fat diet ad libitum. At the end of each diet phase, CRP was measured by a high-sensitivity CRP assay. Results The weight of subjects remained stable during the first 4 wk of isocaloric diets. Plasma CRP concentrations after 2 wk on the weight-maintaining 35% fat diet and 2 wk on the isocaloric 15% fat diet were not significantly different (median ± interquartile range 1.42 ± 3.30 and 1.59 ± 3.29 mg/L, respectively). Three months of ad libitum low-fat diet consumption resulted in a 4.1 ± 0.7 kg weight loss associated with a decrease in CRP concentration to 1.17 ± 2.03 mg/L ( P = 0.03). Conclusion Loss of body weight decreases CRP concentration, but a decrease in dietary fat without a concurrent change in body weight does not affect CRP concentration in overweight healthy subjects.