cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Continuous phase amplification with a Sagnac interferometer

We describe a phase-amplification technique using a Sagnac interferometer. We monitor the relative phase between two paths of a precisely misaligned interferometer by measuring the average position of a split-Gaussian mode in the dark port. Although we monitor only the dark port, we show that the signal varies linearly with phase and that we can obtain similar sensitivity to balanced homodyne detection. We derive the source of the amplification using classical wave optics.
Computerized nodule detection in thin-slice CT using selective enhancement filter and automated rule-based classifier

We have been developing computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) scheme to assist radiologists detect lung nodules in thoracic CT images. In order to improve the sensitivity for nodule detection, we developed a selective nodule enhancement filter for nodule which can simultaneously enhance nodules and suppress other normal anatomic structures such as blood vessels and airway walls. Therefore, as preprocessing steps, this filter is useful for improving the sensitivity of nodule detection and for reducing the number of false positives. Another new technique we employed in this study is an automated rule-based classifier. It can significantly reduce the extent of the disadvantages of existing rule-based classifiers, including manual design, poor reproducibility, poor evaluation methods such as re-substitution, and a large overtraining effect. Experimental results performed with Monte Carlo simulation and a real lung nodule CT dataset demonstrated that the automated method can completely eliminate overtraining effect in the procedure of cutoff threshold selection, and thus can minimize overall overtraining effect in the rule-based classifier.
168 TRANS-AORTIC OCCLUSION OF COLLATERAL ARTERIES WITH DETACHABLE VALVED BALLOONS IN A CASE OF TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

168 TRANS-AORTIC OCCLUSION OF COLLATERAL ARTERIES WITH DETACHABLE VALVED BALLOONS IN A CASE OF TETRALOGY OF FALLOT
How Biased Are Surveys Based on Partial Returns?: Statistics Texts Adopted by Psychology Departments

These authors seized upon an unusual opportunity to obtain data from survey non-respondents, with interesting results.
Diverse roles of actin in C. elegans early embryogenesis

Background The actin cytoskeleton plays critical roles in early development in Caenorhabditis elegans. To further understand the complex roles of actin in early embryogenesis we use RNAi and in vivo imaging of filamentous actin (F-actin) dynamics.
One-stage hypospadias repair

A surgical technique for correction of hypospadias with chordee in one stage is described. This technique which brings the ectopic meatus up to the tip of the glans was successfully applied in 3 cases of penoscrotal and in 8 cases of penile hypospadias.
Pulmonary Regurgitation: Determining Severity by Echocardiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Objective Pulmonary regurgitation (PR) is common after repair of congenital heart disease involving the right ventricular outflow tract. Because PR results in chronic right ventricular volume overload and associated morbidity and mortality, accurate assessment of its severity is important. The aim of this study was to compare echocardiography with the gold standard of PR quantitation by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a young population with repaired congenital heart disease. Design/methods Patients with congenital heart disease who had undergone right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction and/or pulmonary valve replacement and had an MRI within 3 months of an echocardiogram formed the study group. Echocardiographic indices were compared with MRI-determined pulmonary regurgitant fraction (PRF) to determine the most accurate measurements to quantitate PR. Results Of the 69 MRI/echocardiography pairs in 64 patients, 53 data sets were complete and used in the analysis. For the prediction of MRI PRF > or =20%, PR jet width/annulus ratio > or =0.5 demonstrated excellent sensitivity (94%), specificity (100%), positive predictive value (PPV 100%), and negative predictive value (NPV 82%). For the prediction of MRI PRF > or =40%, jet width/annulus ratio > or =0.7 and diastolic flow reversal in the branch pulmonary arteries showed useful sensitivity (92%), specificity (68%), PPV (76%), and NPV (88%). Conclusion Pulmonary regurgitation jet width/annulus ratio combined with diastolic flow reversal is the most valuable echocardiographic measure for assessing PR severity after right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction or pulmonary valve replacement; however, this surrogate measure does not replace the importance of MRI evaluation.
New complexes of uranium(V)

Abstract Nineteen new uranium complexes, eighteen of which contain the element in the very unusual oxidation state of five, and one of which contains quadrivalent uranium complexed for the first time by an arsenic donor ligand, are reported. The novel uranium(V) compounds include, for the first time, ligands whose donor atoms are nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, bismuth, sulfur, selenium and tellurium. The compounds, all prepared under a strictly inert atmosphere, were characterized by elemental analysis, color, decomposition temperature, magnetic moment, ESR average g value (and signal width), i.r. spectroscopy and, in part, by NMR and visible, near i.r., near u.v. spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
The validity of the factorization hypothesis for nucleus-nucleus cross sections at high energies

Abstract We have calculated nucleus-nucleus cross sections for a variety of projectile and target nuclei and a wide range of energy. Total, reaction and elastic cross sections, as well as the slopes of the elastic diffraction peak, exhibit an approximate factorization property when the nuclei differ by less than 50% in r.m.s. radii. A simple geometrical interpretation is provided for the failure of factorization which occurs when target and projectile differ greatly in size.
Temperature dependence and deuterium kinetic isotope effects in the HCO + NO reaction

The reactions of HCO and DCO with NO have been measured by the laser photolysis/continuous-wave (CW) laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) method from 296 to 623 K, probing the ({tilde B}{sup 2}A{prime} {l_arrow} {tilde X}{sup 2}A{prime}) HCO (DCO) system. The HCO + NO rate coefficient is (1.81 {+-} 0.10) x 10{sup -11} cm{sup 3} molecule{sup -1} s{sup -1} and the DCO + NO rate coefficient is (1.61 {+-} 0.12) x 10{sup -11} cm{sup 3} molecule{sup -1} s{sup -1} at 296 K. Both rate coefficients decrease with increasing temperature between 296 and 623 K. The kinetic isotope effect is k{sub H}/k{sub D} = 1.12 {+-} 0.09 at 296 K and increases to 1.25 {+-} 0.15 at 623 K. The normal kinetic isotope effect supports abstraction as the principal mechanism for the reaction, in agreement with recent computational results.
Personality correlates of men who batter and nonviolent men : some continuities and discontinuities

The present study investigated personality and family-of-origin differences among three groups of domestically violent men and a nonviolent comparison group, matched for age and education. The domestic violence groups consisted of male batterers referred for treatment (agency identified batterers) who were alcoholic (n=38) or nonalcoholic (n=61), and a third group who were identified through community sampling as maritally violent (n=28 community batterers). Multivariate analyses of variance of the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI) showed that, compared to nonviolent controls, alcoholic and nonalcoholic batterers showed higher levels of borderline characteristics. Furthermore, alcoholic batterers showed the highest MCMI elevations, followed by nonalcoholic batterers. Community-identified batterers showed no predicted significant differences from the nonviolent controls. On measures of family-of-origin pathology and disruption, only alcoholic batterers differed significantly from nonbatterers on report of both experienced and witnessed abuse victimization.
Structural reorganization of α-synuclein at low pH observed by NMR and REMD simulations

α-Synuclein is an intrinsically disordered protein that appears in aggregated forms in the brains of patients with Parkinson's disease. The conversion from monomer to aggregate is complex, and aggregation rates are sensitive to changes in amino acid sequence and environmental conditions. It has previously been observed that α-synuclein aggregates faster at low pH than at neutral pH. Here, we combine NMR spectroscopy and molecular simulations to characterize α-synuclein conformational ensembles at both neutral and low pH in order to understand how the altered charge distribution at low pH changes the structural properties of these ensembles and leads to an increase in aggregation rate. The N-terminus, which has a small positive charge at neutral pH due to a balance of positively and negatively charged amino acid residues, is very positively charged at low pH. Conversely, the acidic C-terminus is highly negatively charged at neutral pH and becomes essentially neutral and hydrophobic at low pH. Our NMR experiments and replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations indicate that there is a significant structural reorganization within the low-pH ensemble relative to that at neutral pH in terms of long-range contacts, hydrodynamic radius, and the amount of heterogeneity within the conformational ensembles. At neutral pH, there is a very heterogeneous ensemble with transient contacts between the N-terminus and the non-amyloid β component (NAC); however, at low pH, there is a more homogeneous ensemble that exhibits strong contacts between the NAC and the C-terminus. At both pH values, transient contacts between the N- and C-termini are observed, the NAC region shows similar exposure to solvent, and the entire protein shows similar propensities to secondary structure. Based on the comparison of the neutral- and low-pH conformational ensembles, we propose that exposure of the NAC region to solvent and the secondary-structure propensity are not factors that account for differences in propensity to aggregate in this context. Instead, the comparison of the neutral- and low-pH ensembles suggests that the change in long-range interactions between the low- and neutral-pH ensembles, the compaction of the C-terminal region at low pH, and the uneven distribution of charges across the sequence are key to faster aggregation.
Graduate studies in interpretation

(1949). Graduate studies in interpretation. Quarterly Journal of Speech: Vol. 35, No. 3, pp. 316-319.
Effect of Terminal Groups, Polyene Chain Length, and Solvent on the First Excited Singlet States of Carotenoids

The effect of terminal groups, polyene chain length, and solvent on the first excited singlet states (S1) of carotenoids was studied by steady-state and transient optical absorption spectroscopy, and AM1 semiempirical molecular orbital calculations. The carotenoids studied were ethyl 8‘-apo-β-caroten-8‘-oate (I), ethyl 6‘-apo-β-caroten-6‘-oate (II), ethyl 4‘-apo-β-caroten-4‘-oate (III), 8‘-apo-β-caroten-8‘-nitrile (IV), 6‘-apo-β-caroten-6‘-nitrile (V), 4‘-apo-β-caroten-4‘-nitrile (VI), 8‘-apo-β-caroten-8‘-al (VII), and 6‘-apo-β-caroten-6‘-al (VIII). Solvents were 3-methylpentane (3-MP) and MeCN. The effect of solvent on the S1 absorption maxima is similar to that on the ground state (S0) absorption maxima, which suggests that both effects stem from the same type of interaction, i.e., the dispersive interaction between carotenoids and solvents. Carotenoids with terminal CHO groups have S1 absorption maxima at longer wavelenths than those with terminal CN or CO2Et groups. The S1 absorption maxima are red-sh...
Aberrant maturational characteristics of the immune responses of NZB mice to autologous and heterologous erythrocyte antigens.

Abstract The maturational characteristics of the humoral immune responses of C3H and NZB mice to autologous and heterologous erythrocyte antigens were investigated. Clonal selection of antibody-secreting B lymphocytes was examined at the plaque-forming cell level of analysis of changes in mean antibody affinity and the heterogeneity of binding affinities. The primary immune response of C3H mice to SRBC exhibited a progressive temporal increase in mean relative antibody affinity and a concomitant restriction in the heterogeneity of binding affinities consistent with clonal selection and restriction of B lymphocytes to high affinity antibody-secreting cells. By contrast, the anti-SRBC immune response of NZB mice displayed aberrant maturational characteristics with a progressive decrease in mean relative antibody affinity but also clonal restriction with selection of clones of cells secreting low affinity antibodies. The spontaneous autoimmune responses of NZB mice to autologous erythrocyte surface autoantigens X and HB were different from the response to heterologous erythrocytes in that there was neither a progressive change in mean relative binding affinity nor evidence of progressive clonal restriction. Although the precise mechanisms responsible for the aberrant selection and derepression of B lymphocyte clones in NZB mice have not been identified, the very nature of the aberration suggests the existence of one or more defects which may be intrinsic to the B lymphocytes of NZB mice.
Evaluating enzymes that generate genotoxic benzo[a]pyrene metabolites using sensor arrays.

Arrays with individually addressable, demountable electrodes coated with ultrathin DNA/enzyme films were evaluated to estimate relative rates of genotoxic bioactivation of benzo[a]pyrene (BP) for several different enzymes simultaneously. Specifically, cytochrome (cyt) P450cam, cyt P40 1A2, and myoglobin in the array were activated with H2O2 to metabolize BP to genotoxic metabolites. DNA damage by the metabolites was detected by increases in square wave voltammetric oxidation peaks using Ru(bpy)32+ as catalyst. Cyt P450cam and cyt P450 1A2 showed 3-fold higher activity for genotoxic bioactivation of BP than myoglobin. The ability of the arrays to generate and detect metabolite-based DNA damage simultaneously for several enzymes is a rapid and promising approach to identify and characterize enzymes involved in genotoxicity of drugs and pollutants.
Examining Parental Monitoring as a Pathway From Community Violence Exposure to Drug Use, Risky Sex, and Recidivism Among Detained Youth

ABSTRACT This study examined whether parental monitoring mediated the relationship between community violence exposure and a spectrum of behaviors such as recidivism, risky sex, and drug use among youth with a history of being detained. It also explored whether risk pathways differed by gender. Adolescents (n = 550) who were detained or previously detained were recruited from eight regional detention facilities in Georgia. Audio computer-assisted self-interviewing technology was used to assess demographic factors (i.e., age, race, and socioeconomic status), risky sex, drug use, and recidivism prior to being detained. Major findings indicated direct relationships between community violence exposures and risky sex and drug use in the 2 months prior to being detained. Findings also indicated that parental monitoring mediated these relationships for both adolescent males and females. These findings document that parental monitoring is an important element even for troubled youth across a broad spectrum of ris...
Serum ferritin is an independent predictor of histologic severity and advanced fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Serum ferritin (SF) levels are commonly elevated in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) because of systemic inflammation, increased iron stores, or both. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between elevated SF and NAFLD severity. Demographic, clinical, histologic, laboratory, and anthropometric data were analyzed in 628 adult patients with NAFLD (age, ≥18 years) with biopsy-proven NAFLD and an SF measurement within 6 months of their liver biopsy. A threshold SF >1.5 × upper limit of normal (ULN) (i.e., >300 ng/mL in women and >450 ng/mL in men) was significantly associated with male sex, elevated serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, iron, transferrin-iron saturation, iron stain grade, and decreased platelets (P 1.5 × ULN, including steatosis, fibrosis, hepatocellular ballooning, and diagnosis of NASH (P 1.5 × ULN was independently associated with advanced hepatic fibrosis (odds ratio [OR], 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-2.62; P = 0.028) and increased NAFLD Activity Score (NAS) (OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.06-3.75; P = 0.033). Conclusions: A SF >1.5 × ULN is associated with hepatic iron deposition, a diagnosis of NASH, and worsened histologic activity and is an independent predictor of advanced hepatic fibrosis among patients with NAFLD. Furthermore, elevated SF is independently associated with higher NAS, even among patients without hepatic iron deposition. We conclude that SF is useful to identify NAFLD patients at risk for NASH and advanced fibrosis. (HEPATOLOGY 2012)
Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acids Increase Intracellular Calcium Concentration in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Abstract —Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) are cytochrome P450–derived metabolites of arachidonic acid. They are potent endogenous vasodilator compounds produced by vascular cells, and EET-induced vasodilation has been attributed to activation of vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) K + channels. However, in some cells, EETs activate Ca 2+ channels, resulting in Ca 2+ influx and increased intracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ). We investigated whether EETs also can activate Ca 2+ channels in vascular SMC and whether the resultant Ca 2+ influx can influence vascular tone. The 4 EET regioisomers (1 μmol/L) increased porcine aortic SMC [Ca 2+ ] i by 52% to 81%, whereas arachidonic acid, dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids, and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (1 μmol/L) produced little effect. The increases in [Ca 2+ ] i produced by 14,15-EET were abolished by removal of extracellular Ca 2+ and by pretreatment with verapamil (10 μmol/L), an inhibitor of voltage-dependent (L-type) Ca 2+ channels. 14,15-EET did not alter Ca 2+ signaling induced by norepinephrine and thapsigargin. When administered to porcine coronary artery rings precontracted with a thromboxane mimetic, 14,15-EET produced relaxation. However, when administered to rings precontracted with acetylcholine or KCl, 14,15-EET produced additional contractions. In rings exposed to 10 mmol/L KCl, a concentration that did not affect resting ring tension, 14,15-EET produced small contractions that were abolished by EGTA (3 mmol/L) or verapamil (10 μmol/L). These observations indicate that 14,15-EET enhances [Ca 2+ ] i influx in vascular SMC through voltage-dependent Ca 2+ channels. This 14,15-EET–induced increase in [Ca i 2+ ] can produce vasoconstriction and therefore may act to modulate EET-induced vasorelaxation.
VirtualClock: a new traffic control algorithm for packet-switched networks

One of the challenging research issues in building high-speed packet-switched networks is how to control the transmission rate of statistical data flows. This paper describes a new traffic control algorithm, VirtualClock, for high-speed network applications. VirtualClock monitors the average transmission rate of statistical data flows and provides every flow with guaranteed throughput and low queueing delay. It provides firewall protection among individual flows, as in a TDM system, while retaining the statistical multiplexing advantages of packet switching. Simulation results show that the VirtualClock algorithm meets all its design goals.
Teaching MBA Students Teamwork and Team Leadership Skills: An Empirical Evaluation of a Classroom Educational Program.

A comprehensive educational program for teaching behavioral teamwork and team leadership skills was rigorously evaluated with 148 MBA students enrolled at an urban regional campus of a Midwestern public university. Major program components included (1) videotaped student teams in leaderless group discussion (LGD) exercises at the course beginning and end, (2) behavioral assessment of student teamwork and team leadership in the LGD’s, (3) peer and instructor performance feedback and coaching after each LGD, (4) informational modules on teamwork and team leadership, and (5) multiple opportunities (classroom and field) to practice teamwork and team leadership skills. Prominent findings indicated (1) a statistically significant increase in overall teamwork and overall team leadership scores of, respectively, 14% and 8%, (2) no demographic differences in student improvements as a function of sex, age, or race/ethnicity, and (3) very favorable student responses to end-of-course questions concerning teamwork and team leadership skills improvement, self-confidence, and attitudes.
Nature of Species Differences in the Medial Distribution of Aortic Vasa Vasorum in Mammals

Thoracic aortic segments of 12 mammalian species were fixed while distended at normal physiological pressures after the vasa vasorum were filled by a perfusion mixture containing gelatin and carbon. Mammals whose aortas had 29 or fewer medial lamellar units had no demonstrable intramural vascular channels; those whose aortas had more than 29 medial lamellar units, had medial vasa. Aortas with medial vasa vasorum always had a subintimal medial zone devoid of vasa vasorum. In growing animals the width of this avascular zone increased with age; in adults, the width increased slightly with increasing species body weight. However, the number of lamellar units in the avascular zone was independent of both age and species and equal to 29.0 ± 2.5. All of the species with intramural aortic vasa vasorum as adults had 29 or more aortic medial lamellar units at birth; none of the species which had 29 or fewer lamellar units at birth had more than 29 lamellar units at maturity. In aortas with medial vasa vasorum, widening of the avascular zone during growth appeared to be due only to the uniform thickening of each of the approximately 29 lamellar units already present at birth; the vascularized outer zone widened both by enlargement of its lamellar units and the addition of new lamellar units. Species differences in medial distribution of vasa vasorum are due primarily to differences in thickness of the vascularized outer zone.
The Political Properties of Crystalline H2O: Planning for Snow Emergencies in New York

A major snowstorm produced a serious snow emergency and a political crisis in New York City. Mayor Lindsay asked for an analysis of the problem to prevent its recurrence. His management science unit studied four basic questions: 1 How much snow falls on New York City? 2 How much work has to be done to clean it up? 3 What is the capacity for performing this work? 4 What improvements are needed to correct any imbalance between work load and work capacity? The surprising findings eliminated most of the remedies that had been offered earlier. A low-cost snow emergency plan was prepared, calling for some additional equipment, better deployment, and a strategy for more rapid mobilization. The recommendations were implemented promptly, and with due regard for political impact, in the midst of a mayoralty election campaign.
Improving the signal to noise ratio of event-related EEG signals in high risk newborns

A soft thresholding technique is used in an attempt to improve the accuracy of signals with low signal-to-noise ratios (SNR). Focusing initially on EEG signals from high-risk infants, the technique has provided us with valuable information on the nature of the signal to improve estimation methods for this type of data.
Limitation of current hardening models in predicting anisotropy by twinning in hcp metals: Application to a rod-textured AM30 magnesium alloy

When a strongly textured hexagonal close packed (HCP) metal is loaded under an orientation causing profuse twinning or detwinning, the stress-strain curve is sigmoidal in shape and inflects at some threshold. Authors have largely attributed the dramatic stress increase in the lower-bound vicinity of the inflection point to a combined effect of a Hall-Petch mechanism correlated to grain refinement by twinning, and twinning-induced reorientation requiring activation of hard slip modes. We experimentally and numerically demonstrate that these two mechanisms alone are unable to reproduce the stress-strain behaviors obtained under intermediate loading orientations correlated to in-between profuse twinning and nominal twinning. We argue based on adopting various mechanistic approaches in hardening model correlations from the literature. We used both a physics dislocation based model and a phenomenological Voce hardening model. The HCP material is exemplified by an extruded AM30 magnesium alloy with a � 10¯0� -fiber parallel to the extrusion direction.
Measuring and mitigating agricultural greenhouse gas production in the US Great Plains, 1870–2000

The Great Plains region of the United States is an agricultural production center for the global market and, as such, an important source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This article uses historical agricultural census data and ecosystem models to estimate the magnitude of annual GHG fluxes from all agricultural sources (e.g., cropping, livestock raising, irrigation, fertilizer production, tractor use) in the Great Plains from 1870 to 2000. Here, we show that carbon (C) released during the plow-out of native grasslands was the largest source of GHG emissions before 1930, whereas livestock production, direct energy use, and soil nitrous oxide emissions are currently the largest sources. Climatic factors mediate these emissions, with cool and wet weather promoting C sequestration and hot and dry weather increasing GHG release. This analysis demonstrates the long-term ecosystem consequences of both historical and current agricultural activities, but also indicates that adoption of available alternative management practices could substantially mitigate agricultural GHG fluxes, ranging from a 34% reduction with a 25% adoption rate to as much as complete elimination with possible net sequestration of C when a greater proportion of farmers adopt new agricultural practices.
Resting-state activity in the left executive control network is associated with behavioral approach and is increased in substance dependence.

Background Individuals with drug addictions report increased willingness to approach rewards. Approach behaviors are thought to involve executive control processes and are more strongly represented in the left compared to right prefrontal cortex. A direct link between approach tendencies and left hemisphere activity has not been shown in the resting brain. We hypothesized that compared to controls, substance dependent individuals (SDI) would have greater left hemisphere activity in the left executive control network (ECN) at rest.
Major erythrocyte membrane protein genes in EKLF-deficient mice.

Objectives Mice deficient in the transcription factor erythroid Kruppel-like factor, KLF1 (EKLF) die ∼14.5 days postcoitum of anemia, attributed to decreased expression of the β-globin gene. The objectives of this study were to rescue EKLF-deficient embryos with mice expressing γ-globin from β-spectrin or ankyrin promoters and to characterize expression of the major erythrocyte membrane genes in EKLF-deficient cells. Methods Transgenic β-spectrin/γ-globin or ankyrin/γ-globin mice were bred onto EKLF-deficient and wild-type backgrounds. Animals were genotyped, γ-globin mRNA levels measured, and hemoglobin electrophoresis performed. Steady-state mRNA levels and transcriptional rates of the major erythrocyte membrane protein genes were assayed. Results β-spectrin/γ-globin or ankyrin/γ-globin mice on EKLF-deficient and wild-type backgrounds had identical levels of γ-globin mRNA, indicating EKLF-independence of these promoters. γ-Globin expression improved globin chain imbalance, but hemolysis was not improved and no live-born EKLF-deficient/ A γ-globin mice were obtained. Circulating erythroid cells from EKLF-deficient/ A γ-globin embryos exhibited hemolysis reminiscent of that seen in patients with severe erythrocyte membrane defects. Levels of β-spectrin, ankyrin, and band 3 mRNA, but not α-spectrin, were decreased in EKLF-deficient fetal liver RNA. In a run-on assay, levels of transcription of the ankyrin and band 3 genes were decreased in EKLF-deficient fetal liver nuclei. Conclusions These results indicate that the EKLF-responsive regions of the ankyrin and β-spectrin genes are outside their promoters and that EKLF is necessary for full transcriptional activity of the ankyrin and band 3 genes; the results also provide additional evidence that defects in addition to β-globin deficiency, including an abnormal erythrocyte membrane, contribute to the anemia and embryonic lethality in EKLF-deficient mice.
On the Sources of Methane to the Los Angeles Atmosphere

We use historical and new atmospheric trace gas observations to refine the estimated source of methane (CH_4) emitted into California’s South Coast Air Basin (the larger Los Angeles metropolitan region). Referenced to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) CO emissions inventory, total CH4 emissions are 0.44 ± 0.15 Tg each year. To investigate the possible contribution of fossil fuel emissions, we use ambient air observations of methane (CH_4), ethane (C_(2)H_(6)), and carbon monoxide (CO), together with measured C_(2)H_6 to CH_4 enhancement ratios in the Los Angeles natural gas supply. The observed atmospheric C_(2)H_6 to CH_4 ratio during the ARCTAS (2008) and CalNex (2010) aircraft campaigns is similar to the ratio of these gases in the natural gas supplied to the basin during both these campaigns. Thus, at the upper limit (assuming that the only major source of atmospheric C_(2)H_6 is fugitive emissions from the natural gas infrastructure) these data are consistent with the attribution of most (0.39 ± 0.15 Tg yr^(–1)) of the excess CH_4 in the basin to uncombusted losses from the natural gas system (approximately 2.5–6% of natural gas delivered to basin customers). However, there are other sources of C_(2)H_6 in the region. In particular, emissions of C_(2)H_6 (and CH_4) from natural gas seeps as well as those associated with petroleum production, both of which are poorly known, will reduce the inferred contribution of the natural gas infrastructure to the total CH_4 emissions, potentially significantly. This study highlights both the value and challenges associated with the use of ethane as a tracer for fugitive emissions from the natural gas production and distribution system.
Using the WWW in advanced digital design courses

Modern digital design requires a knowledge of programmable logic devices (PLDs). PLD technology is changing so fast it is difficult to keep up with new PLD architectures and devices. Companies are continually changing their products and buying other companies. It has been difficult to keep up-to-date data books for students to use in design. It is also important to be using PLDs that have not been discontinued. The World Wide Web (WWW) has helped solve the problem in the advanced digital system design course (ECE 487) at Utah State University. Last Fall I noticed that some PLD companies had developed home pages on the WWW. I decided to use the WWW as the major resource for finding information about PLD companies and trends. Up to this point I personally kept current in the field of PLDs and had a large collection of data books. The WWW dramatically changed the class. Students were using it to find all of their information. This paper describes how the WWW was used in the digital design class and the results of how well it worked. It also suggests how it could be used for other courses.
The Semiotic Theory of Ergativity and Markedness

The theories of ergativity now prevailing claim that the syntactic organization of ergative constructions in ergative languages follows the pattern of accusative constructions in accusative languages.
Changes in cognition

The clinical hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a gradual decline in cognitive function. For the majority of patients the initial symptom is an impairment in episodic memory, i.e., the ability to learn and retain new information. This is followed by impairments in other cognitive domains (e.g., executive function, language, spatial ability). This impairment in episodic memory is evident among individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and can be used to predict likelihood of progression to dementia, particularly in association with AD biomarkers. Additionally, cognitively normal individuals who are likely to progress to mild impairment tend to perform more poorly on tests of episodic memory than do those who remain stable. This cognitive presentation is consistent with the pathology of AD, showing neuronal loss in medial temporal lobe structures essential for normal memory. Similarly, there are correlations between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures of medial temporal lobe structures and memory performance among individuals with mild cognitive impairment. There are recent reports that amyloid accumulation may also be associated with memory performance in cognitively normal individuals.
Virus Variation Resource—recent updates and future directions

Virus Variation (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/genomes/VirusVariation/) is a comprehensive, web-based resource designed to support the retrieval and display of large virus sequence datasets. The resource includes a value added database, a specialized search interface and a suite of sequence data displays. Virus-specific sequence annotation and database loading pipelines produce consistent protein and gene annotation and capture sequence descriptors from sequence records then map these metadata to a controlled vocabulary. The database supports a metadata driven, web-based search interface where sequences can be selected using a variety of biological and clinical criteria. Retrieved sequences can then be downloaded in a variety of formats or analyzed using a suite of tools and displays. Over the past 2 years, the pre-existing influenza and Dengue virus resources have been combined into a single construct and West Nile virus added to the resultant resource. A number of improvements were incorporated into the sequence annotation and database loading pipelines, and the virus-specific search interfaces were updated to support more advanced functions. Several new features have also been added to the sequence download options, and a new multiple sequence alignment viewer has been incorporated into the resource tool set. Together these enhancements should support enhanced usability and the inclusion of new viruses in the future.
RNA decay back in play

Lasting synaptic plasticity requires precise local regulation of protein expression. A recent paper reports that the postsynaptic activity–induced arc mRNA is a target for rapid degradation by the 'nonsense-mediated decay' pathway.
Self Organizing Neural Networks for the Identification Problem

This work introduces a new method called Self Organizing Neural Network (SONN) algorithm and demonstrates its use in a system identification task. The algorithm constructs the network, chooses the neuron functions, and adjusts the weights. It is compared to the Back-Propagation algorithm in the identification of the chaotic time series. The results shows that SONN constructs a simpler, more accurate model, requiring less training data and epochs. The algorithm can be applied and generalized to appilications as a classifier.
Aortic stenosis: a fatal disease with but a single cure.

Aortic stenosis (AS) is narrowing of the aortic valve creating an obstruction to outflow of blood into the systemic circulation. As AS worsens, the force the left ventricle must generate to overcome the obstruction increases progressively. Although inotropic reserve and the development of left
Abstract 70: Eplerenone Increases Dilation and the Diameter of Cerebral Penetrating Arterioles in Rats with Sustained Hypertension

Hypertension is linked to dementia in humans, as well as remodeling and dysfunction in large cerebral arteries. The effects of hypertension on cerebral microvessels, such as penetrating arterioles ...
Responses of isolated pulmonary arteries to synthetic peptide F-Met-Leu-Phe

The chemoattractant formyl-methionine-leucine-phenylalanine (FMLP) has recently been shown to possess spasmogenic properties in smooth muscle preparations from various organs. In this study we have investigated the actions of this peptide on isolated rabbit pulmonary artery (PA) ring segments. FMLP stimulated concentration-dependent constriction of PA at resting tension. However, in PA that had been preconstricted by norepinephrine, FMLP stimulated concentration-dependent relaxation. FMLP-stimulated PA constriction was inhibited by earlier exposure to indomethacin or to furegrelate, a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, but not by earlier exposure to the H1 histamine receptor antagonist pyrilamine. FMLP-stimulated relaxation of PA was totally abolished by indomethacin but not by furegrelate or pyrilamine. Disruption of the endothelium in PA preparations decreased both the constriction and relaxation response to the peptide, suggesting that these cells were involved in these responses. These results indicate that the chemotactic factor FMLP can elicit constriction or relaxation of isolated PA, depending on the underlying active PA tension. In addition, both constriction and relaxation are dependent on cyclooxygenase products and intact endothelium.
Expert ratings of job demand and job control as predictors of injury and musculoskeletal disorder risk in a manufacturing cohort

Objective To examine associations between workplace injury and musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risk and expert ratings of job-level psychosocial demand and job control, adjusting for job-level physical demand. Methods Among a cohort of 9260 aluminium manufacturing workers in jobs for which expert ratings of job-level physical and psychological demand and control were obtained during the 2 years following rating obtainment, multivariate mixed effects models were used to estimate relative risk (RR) of minor injury and minor MSD, serious injury and MSD, minor MSD only and serious MSD only by tertile of demand and control, adjusting for physical demand as well as other recognised risk factors. Results Compared with workers in jobs rated as having low psychological demand, workers in jobs with high psychological demand had 49% greater risk of serious injury and serious MSD requiring medical treatment, work restrictions or lost work time (RR=1.49; 95% CI 1.10 to 2.01). Workers in jobs rated as having low control displayed increased risk for minor injury and minor MSD (RR=1.45; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.87) compared with those in jobs rated as having high control. Conclusions Using expert ratings of job-level exposures, this study provides evidence that psychological job demand and job control contribute independently to injury and MSD risk in a blue-collar manufacturing cohort, and emphasises the importance of monitoring psychosocial workplace exposures in addition to physical workplace exposures to promote worker health and safety.
Central Neural Modulation of Focal Cerebral Infarction: Possible Relationship to Brainstem Networks Governing Oxygen Conserving Responses

There is increasing evidence that neurotransmitters released by ischemia may contribute to the magnitude of the resulting brain damage (e.g. ref. 1 as well as other contributions in this volume). The general view is that the release of transmitters during ischemia results from impairment, by hypoxia, of energy-dependent processes in nerve endings required for transmitter inactivation. Normally, the release of neurotransmitters and modulators is governed by nerve impulse activity. This fact raises the question: will normal synaptic release of transmitters in the ischemic zone also modify ischemic damage?
Abstract 2333: The Role Of Extrasynaptic NMDA Receptor In Mediating Neuronal Survival- And Death-related Signaling

The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play an important role in synaptic plasticity and excitotoxicity. Physiological activation of NMDARs is associated with synaptic plasticity and neuronal ...
Impact of an electronic alert notification system embedded in radiologists’ workflow on closed-loop communication of critical results: a time series analysis

Introduction Optimal critical test result communication is a Joint Commission national patient safety goal and requires documentation of closed-loop communication among care providers in the medical record. Electronic alert notification systems can facilitate an auditable process for creating alerts for transmission and acknowledgement of critical test results. We evaluated the impact of a patient safety initiative with an alert notification system on reducing critical results lacking documented communication, and assessed potential overuse of the alerting system for communicating results. Methods We implemented an alert notification system—Alert Notification of Critical Results (ANCR)—in January 2010. We reviewed radiology reports finalised in 2009–2014 which lacked documented communication between the radiologist and another care provider, and assessed the impact of ANCR on the proportion of such reports with critical findings, using trend analysis over 10 semiannual time periods. To evaluate potential overuse of ANCR, we assessed the proportion of reports with non-critical results among provider-communicated reports. Results The proportion of reports with critical results among reports without documented communication decreased significantly over 4 years (2009–2014) from 0.19 to 0.05 (p<0.0001, Cochran–Armitage trend test). The proportion of provider-communicated reports with non-critical results remained unchanged over time before and after ANCR implementation (0.20 to 0.15, p=0.45, Cochran–Armitage trend test). Conclusions A patient safety initiative with an alert notification system reduced the proportion of critical results among reports lacking documented communication between care providers. We observed no change in documented communication of non-critical results, suggesting the system did not promote overuse. Future studies are needed to evaluate whether such systems prevent subsequent patient harm.
Performance, Reliability, and Life of Hydride Compressor Components for 10 to 30 K Sorption Cryocoolers

Compressor reliability physics investigations are an important element of an ongoing research effort to understand and confirm the performance and reliability of hydride sorption cryocoolers for low-vibration, long-life 10 to 30 K spacecraft applications. The detailed understanding of important failure mechanisms governing hydride refrigerator life is enabling identification of operating constraints, design enhancements, and other means of eliminating failure mechanisms, as well as aiding detailed definition of effective techniques for fabrication, assembly, and handling. Investigations underway with candidate hydride materials (e.g. LaNi5-ySny and ZrNi) include: (1) characterization of hydride chemical and metallurgical composition, isotherms, kinetics, phase purity, lattice parameters, disproportionation mechanisms, and thermal conductivity; (2) study and definition of hydride manufacturing, annealing and handling procedures; (3) characterization of long-term hydride stability, degradation, compaction and containment using specially fabricated compressors used to precisely measure the transient pressure response to programmed temperature cycling; (4) demonstration of the fast sorption capability needed for quick-cooldown using a engineering model compressor with an integral phase-change material heat sink and (5) demonstration of 2 stage compression between 1 torr and 11 MPa and; (6) validation of current transient analysis models. In addition, characterization of enhanced performance refrigerator components is currently underway. The test results described are entirely consistent with achieving > 10 year cryocooler life.
Stephanocysts: unique structures in the Basidiomycetes.

SUMMARYStephanocysts are described and illustrated and their taxonomic value is elucidated. A description of Hyphoderma tenue (Pat.) Donk is also presented.
Signs, Symbols, and Interaction Theory

(1974). Signs, Symbols, and Interaction Theory. Sociological Focus: Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 101-111.
Surviving against insurmountable odds: African-American mothers and their gang-affiliated daughters

A partir d'un cas de meurtre dans la ville de Detroit, l'A. examine les conditions de survie de meres afro-americaines, elevant pour la plupart seules leurs enfants, et dont au moins une fille fait partie d'un gang. Apres avoir constate que leur voix n'est pas entendue, ni par l'institution judiciaire, ni par les medias, il montre les qualites de courage dont font preuve ces meres pour concilier leur travail, l'education de leurs enfants et la survie dans un milieu d'une grande hostilite, entre racisme et violence des gangs. Les filles prennent souvent une part active au sein des gangs afin d'eviter d'etre des proies sexuelles. Le gang est souvent a leurs yeux comme une seconde famille
A novel xenograft model to test the ovarian toxicity of chemotherapy agents in women

19504 Background: Many chemotherapeutic agents, especially of alkylating family, alter fertility in premenopausal females (1). While the impact of well-established agents such as cyclophosphamide (...
The Method of Discovery and Teaching of High Math for Adults

In view of the characteristics of adult students, the author expounds in this thesis the good teaching effect achieved during the teaching of high math for adults by means of "the method of discovery".
Diabetes and wound healing.

Diabetes mellitus is a complex disease that magnifies the problems associated with critical illness. This disease seems to have a particular impact during the wound-healing process, causing impaired healing and an increased risk of infection. The complications of diabetes, such as macrovascular, microvascular, and neuropathic diseases, further influence wound healing. It is essential for the critical care nurse to have a clear understanding of the effects that diabetes mellitus has on seriously ill patients to maximize positive outcomes for these patients.
Combinatorial Chemistry: The Enlistment and Application of Soluble Polymer Supports

Polymer-supported synthesis has become the method of choice for the preparation of peptides and oligonucleotides and largely responsible for the rapid expansion of combinatorial chemistry.1–9 Although highly successful, the heterogeneous nature of solidphase organic synthesis has been linked to problems including decreased reactivities, prolonged reaction times, and limited analytical techniques for reaction monitoring, all of which have been addressed by the use of soluble polymer supports.8,10–27 The selection of a polymer support for liquid-phase synthesis (LPS) mainly depends upon its macromolecular solubility properties satisfying the requirements of a particular synthetic scheme. Considering the dearth of soluble supports currently available, the utility of LPS would be greatly enhanced by the availability of a larger and more diversified set of soluble supports. We detail report a new method of parallel polymer synthesis to produce materials with novel solubility characteristics tunable for LPS as well as potential applications in materials science.