cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diabetes and Obesity: The Impact of Their Coincidence on Health and Life

An increasing rate of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity imposes a huge financial drain on healthcare systems. Diabesity describes their close pathophysiological and clinical associations. Both diabetes and obesity are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and renal diseases. Multiple factors including biochemical, metabolic, genetic, cultural, and psychosocial conditions contribute to obesity and insulin resistance. The coexistence of obesity and T2D presents a complex therapeutic and management challenge and remains undertreated in primary care. Lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of such management. Medical treatment strategies for diabesity should be multifactorial, addressing its multiple metabolic abnormalities. Selection of appropriate therapeutic agents therefore becomes challenging, and long-term monitoring is essential. There is a need for newer anti-diabetic medications with more effective weight-lowering properties. It is hoped that scientific information derived from metabolite-profiling techniques will make it possible to suggest more effective and individualized management for this chronic condition.
NASA's current activities in free space optical communications

NASA and other space agencies around the world are currently developing free space optical communication systems for both space-to-ground links and space-to-space links. This paper provides an overview of NASA's current activities in free space optical communications with a focus on Near Earth applications. Activities to be discussed include the Lunar Laser Communication Demonstration, the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration, and the commercialization of the underlying technology. The paper will also briefly discuss ongoing efforts and studies for Deep Space optical communications. Finally the paper will discuss the development of international optical communication standards within the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems.
History of Regenerative Medicine

Until relatively recently, regenerative medicine has been a research term used to describe engineering or regrowing tissue to re-establish normal function [1]. Though research in this field and its clinical applications are novel, the central tenets are ancient. The idea that noxious stimuli applied to injured tissue can induce healing is traceable to 500 BC in Rome, where soldiers with joint dislocations were treated with hot needle therapy [2]. In the twentieth century, a practice known as prolotherapy, in which hyperosmolar substances were injected into damaged tissue, was popularized. As we have learned more about inflammation and its mediators, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have been investigated as a method to regenerate tissue in a manner that is theoretically similar to prolotherapy. It is reasoned that because platelets contain inflammatory mediators and these molecules are critical to the healing process, injecting a higher than physiologic concentration of platelets could induce tissue regeneration with normal cell architecture.
Mechanisms of sampling interstitial fluid from skin using a microneedle patch.

Although interstitial fluid (ISF) contains biomarkers of physiological significance and medical interest, sampling of ISF for clinical applications has made limited impact due to a lack of simple, clinically useful techniques that collect more than nanoliter volumes of ISF. This study describes experimental and theoretical analysis of ISF transport from skin using microneedle (MN) patches and demonstrates collection of >1 µL of ISF within 20 min in pig cadaver skin and living human subjects using an optimized system. MN patches containing arrays of submillimeter solid, porous, or hollow needles were used to penetrate superficial skin layers and access ISF through micropores (µpores) formed upon insertion. Experimental studies in pig skin found that ISF collection depended on transport mechanism according to the rank order diffusion
Contact lenses in the geriatric patient

Contact lenses in the elderly patient are often prescribed for visual correction and/or corneal rehabilitation. The success of contact lenses in the geriatric patient is often limited by such factors as abnormal adnexal physiology, decreased manual dexterity, high degrees of refractive error, and low vision. Assessment of these factors prior to contact lens fitting can greatly increase the success of these unique contact lens applications. Indications and contraindications for contact lenses in the elderly, the need for special lens handling and care by family members, and available specialty lenses will be discussed.
Quality control in aminoacyl-tRNA synthesis: Its role in translational fidelity

Accurate translation of mRNA into protein is vital for maintenance of cellular integrity. Translational fidelity is achieved by two key events: synthesis of correctly paired aminoacyl-tRNAs by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) and stringent selection of aminoacyl-tRNAs (aa-tRNAs) by the ribosome. AaRSs define the genetic code by catalyzing the formation of precise aminoacyl ester-linked tRNAs via a two-step reaction. AaRSs ensure faithful aa-tRNA synthesis via high substrate selectivity and/or by proofreading (editing) of noncognate products. About half of the aaRSs rely on proofreading mechanisms to achieve high levels of accuracy in aminoacylation. Editing functions in aaRSs contribute to the overall low error rate in protein synthesis. Over 40 years of research on aaRSs using structural, biochemical, and kinetic approaches has expanded our knowledge of their cellular roles and quality control mechanisms. Here, we review aaRS editing with an emphasis on the mechanistic and kinetic details of the process.
Present Status of the Proposed Use of Negative Pi Mesons in Radiotherapy

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the relationship of radiobiologic effects with the pion proposal. The clinical application of negative pi mesons requires expansion of the peak volume, and this expansion results in three alterations in the beam characteristics that might, at least theoretically, reduce the therapeutic effectiveness of the beams: (1) reduction of the peak to plateau dose ratio, (2) decrease in the peak dose rate, and (3) reduction of the non-low linear energy transfer (LET) components of the peak with increasing peak volume. Although a reduction of the peak-to-plateau dose ratio does accompany peak expansion, the ratio that remains is far in excess of that achievable with conventional radiations such as 60 Co γ rays. This ratio remains in excess of 1 for the largest peaks that were tested, compared to being far less than 1 for the conventional radiations. Therefore, this factor remains one of the most promising in terms of potential therapeutic gains. The three theoretical problems that attend expansion of the pion peak do not appear to invalidate clinical applicability of the beams, and they remain a useful tool in clinical radiotherapy.
Can the US minimum data set be used for predicting admissions to acute care facilities

This paper is intended to give an overview of Knowledge Discovery in Large Datasets (KDD) and data mining applications in healthcare particularly as related to the Minimum Data Set, a resident assessment tool which is used in US long-term care facilities. The US Health Care Finance Administration, which mandates the use of this tool, has accumulated massive warehouses of MDS data. The pressure in healthcare to increase efficiency and effectiveness while improving patient outcomes requires that we find new ways to harness these vast resources. The intent of this preliminary study design paper is to discuss the development of an approach which utilizes the MDS, in conjunction with KDD and classification algorithms, in an attempt to predict admission from a long-term care facility to an acute care facility. The use of acute care services by long term care residents is a negative outcome, potentially avoidable, and expensive. The value of the MDS warehouse can be realized by the use of the stored data in ways that can improve patient outcomes and avoid the use of expensive acute care services. This study, when completed, will test whether the MDS warehouse can be used to describe patient outcomes and possibly be of predictive value.
Circadian Puffing Behavior and Topography Among E-cigarette Users.

Objectives The aim of this study was to examine puffing behavior and topography over 24 hours among regular electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) users. Methods Twenty-four adult e-cigarette users (15 male) vaped their personal e-cigarettes ad-lib over the course of 24 hours. Participants took each puff via calibrated CReSS pocket topography monitors. We analyzed: number of puffs per day per session, mean puff volume, mean puff flow rate, mean duration of puff, and mean interval between puffs. Results Over 24 hours participants took on average 156.2±10.3 puffs, clustered in 10.2±7.9 puffs per puffing session with an average puff interval of 15.4±22.0 sec. A single puff lasted on average 3.0±1.2 sec, had a volume of 73.4±51.5 ml, and was taken with the average flow rate of 24.7±10.2 ml/sec. Conclusions There is substantial variability among e-cigarette users in the way they puff on these devices. When e-cigarette aerosol is generated for laboratory studies, there is a need for validated puffing protocols that not only reflects the most-common pattern but also intensive puffing behaviors observed among some e-cigarette users.
The Multidisciplinary Approach to the Diagnosis and Management of Nonobstetric Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injuries.

OBJECTIVE. Nonobstetric traumatic brachial plexus injuries can result in significant morbidity and chronic disability if not managed in a timely manner. Functional arm recovery is possible, but it ...
Development of Hybrid Structures of Silver Nanowire Electrodes for the Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) Films to Mitigate Energy Yield Loss Incurred by Solar Collectors Due to Soiling

This study aims at establishing environmentally stable and viable silver nanowire (AgNW) electrodes of an Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) film, by the inclusion of one or more protective layers of zinc oxide (ZnO) produced in lab by combining tetrahydrofuran (THF) and diethylzinc (DEZ). The electrodes can be realized as 1) stacked structure where the AgNW electrode has a layer of ZnO on top for protection or 2) sandwiched structure where the AgNW electrode is covered by ZnO layers, protecting it from the top and bottom. Experiments are done to test the effect of accelerated exposure to ultraviolet light, high temperature and passage of high voltage on the AgNW samples and are compared with the results obtained from the AgNW samples that have the ZnO protective layer which have also been subjected to the aforementioned test conditions. A complete water immersion test is performed in order to ensure functionality and efficiency of the ZnO/AgNW samples that are to be patterned as electrodes of the EDS film. This will demonstrate viability of the structure in the case of rain.
The immune landscape and response to immune checkpoint blockade therapy in lymphoma

The clinical development of effective cancer immunotherapies, along with advances in genomic analysis, has led to the identification of tumor environmental features that predict for sensitivity to immune checkpoint blockade therapy (CBT). Early-phase clinical trial results have demonstrated the remarkable effectiveness of CBT in specific lymphoma subtypes, including classical Hodgkin lymphoma and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma. Conversely, CBT has been relatively disappointing in follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. These clinical observations, coupled with important scientific discoveries, have uncovered salient features of the lymphoma microenvironment that correlate with immunotherapy response in patients. For example, classical Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by an inflammatory environment, genetic alterations that facilitate escape from immune attack, and sensitivity to PD-1 blockade therapy. On the other hand, for lymphomas in which measures of immune surveillance are lacking, including follicular lymphoma and most diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, anti-PD-1 therapy has been less effective. An improved understanding of the immune landscapes of these lymphomas is needed to define subsets that might benefit from CBT. In this article, we describe the immune environments associated with major B-cell lymphomas with an emphasis on the immune escape pathways orchestrated by these diseases. We also discuss how oncogenic alterations in lymphoma cells may affect the cellular composition of the immune environment and ultimately, vulnerability to CBT. Finally, we highlight key areas for future investigation, including the need for the development of biomarkers that predict for sensitivity to CBT in lymphoma patients.
How to increase proximal adenoma detection rate: a meta-analysis comparing water exchange, water immersion and air/CO2 insufflation methods for colonoscopy.

Background Recent meta-analyses have demonstrated a higher adenoma detection rate using the water exchange method (WE), compared to water immersion (WI) and air/CO2 insufflation (ACI). Proximal adenomas have a high miss rate owing to their location and appearance. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the WE and WI methods to the ACI method, with a primary focus on proximal adenoma detection rate. Methods The following databases were searched for our systematic review: Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Web of Sciences. We included both randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. The primary outcome was proximal adenoma detection rate, and secondary outcomes were right adenoma detection rate and cecal intubation rate. Results A total of 12 studies (17 arms) with 5660 patients (2260 ACI, 2281 WE, and 1119 WI) were included. A higher proximal adenoma detection rate (risk ratio [RR] 1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11-1.53; P=0.001) and right adenoma detection rate (RR 1.43, 95%CI 1.19-1.71; P≤0.001; I 2=0%) were noted for the WE group compared to the ACI group. The WI group did not demonstrate a better detection rate of proximal or right adenomas. Conclusions The water exchange method for colonoscopy holds promise and should be encouraged in the clinical setting to increase proximal and right adenoma detection rates. This will in turn decrease the incidence of colorectal cancer.
Budget-Constrained Incentive Compatibility for Stationary Mechanisms

Motivated by online advertising applications, we study incentive properties of stationary mechanisms that satisfy budget constraints in expectation at a stationary equilibrium. We consider a general repeated auction setting where a seller sells identical items to buyers with budget constraints and the buyers' value distributions can be arbitrarily correlated. We introduce the novel notion of budget-constrained incentive compatibility (BCIC) under which each buyer chooses an optimal bidding strategy among stationary budget-feasible bidding strategies. Armed with the notion of BCIC, we characterize Bayesian optimal mechanisms that satisfy the budget constraints in expectation with respect to the profit, utility and welfare objectives in the restricted setting where the buyers' value distributions are independent. Furthermore, in the general setting where the buyers' value distributions are correlated, we provide the first systematic study on the incentive properties of different budget management mechanisms, including those studied in the literature and, to the best of our knowledge, used in the industry. We explore the following mechanisms and show some popular mechanisms are not incentive compatible even when restricting attention to stationary budget-feasible deviations: throttling, thresholding, bid shading, reserve pricing and two versions of multiplicative boosting.
Tensions and connections between social work and anti-capitalist disability activism: disability rights, disability justice, and implications for practice

Social work’s relationship to disability activism under capitalism is an underexplored area of the profession’s literature. This paper aims to help address this gap by providing a conceptual discus...
Encoding and referent event influence on retrospective memory

Previous work from our lab has shown that event structure can influence memory performance. Our work in prospective memory has shown that, consistent with an event model view, performance is better when multiple encoding events refer to a common retrieval event. The aim of this study was to assess the generality of this influence of event model structure on memory by using two retrospective memory tasks. This was done using lists of sentences (Experiment 1) and narrative texts (Experiment 2). The results of these retrospective memory tasks replicated that of the prospective memory task and are most consistent with an event cognition account. These results also suggest that encoding and referent event structures may affect some levels of representation (e.g., the surface form) more than others (e.g., the textbase and event model). Overall, we demonstrate that event structure has principled influences on memory apart from the nature of the materials or the task. Moreover, we discuss how these findings are inconsistent with more traditional theories of memory processing, such as associative interference and spreading activation accounts.
Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing on Surface and Groundwater Water Resources: Case Study from Louisiana

AbstractHydraulic fracturing activities have been gaining more attention; therefore, a better understanding of the potential stress that fracturing may cause to freshwater resources is needed. The ...
Mental Disorders and Distress in Marriages with a Problem Drinking Husband

The aim of this research was to evaluate the extent to which spouses and their problem drinking husbands experience mental disorders and distress separately and interactively. Consistent with the l...
The MNE as a Portfolio: Interdependencies and Path-Dependence in MNE Location Choices

We conceptualize the MNE as a portfolio of interdependent sub-units and view the portfolio itself as a major determinant of subsequent action. We apply this conceptualization to the international growth trajectory of MNEs and model their location moves with explicit reference to their existing location portfolios. This approach entails that location choices are path-dependent and thus determined by forces that are endogenous to the MNEs making them, in addition to exogenous characteristics of countries and moves of other firms. We test the resulting model on a unique dataset that details all the international location moves undertaken by US legal service MNEs. Our findings show that after controlling for country- and firm-characteristics, the fit between the characteristics of the portfolio and those of subsequent locations significantly affect location moves in a non-linear fashion. The portfolio exercises stronger impact on entry than on exit, suggesting that path-dependence processes are more influential on MNE expansion than on their contraction. The characteristics of the portfolio and those of the MNEs concerned moderate these relationships. We argue that the conceptualization of the MNE as a portfolio requires corresponding strategic and organizational responses, and outline central elements for the management of the MNE as a portfolio.
Continuous-Time Systems

A continuous-time system is a system in which the signals at input and output are continuous-time signals. This chapter connects signals with systems, especially the study of linear time-invariant dynamic systems. Simple examples of systems, ranging from the vocal system to simple circuits, illustrate the use of the linear time-invariant (LTI) model and point to its practical application. At the same time, modulators also show that more complicated systems need to be explored to be able to communicate wirelessly. Although a system is viewed as a mathematical transformation of an input signal (or signals) into an output signal (or signals), it is important to understand that such transformation results from an idealized model of the physical device. A system's approach to the theory of differential equations and some features of transforms are also discussed. The general characteristics attributed to systems are classified such as static or dynamic systems, lumped- or distributed-parameter systems, and passive or active systems are also discussed in the chapter. The Laplace transform allows transient as well as steady-state analysis and converts the solution of differential equations into an algebraic problem and is very significant in the area of classic control. The chapter also provides the concept of transfer function that connects with the impulse response and the convolution integral. The analysis of systems with continuous-time signals by means of transforms is presented. When developing a mathematical model for a continuous-time system it is important to contrast the accuracy of the model with its simplicity and practicality.
The Politics of Theory, Practice, and Clarity

There is a growing tendency among cultural workers in a variety of disciplines and public spheres to make clarity a central political issue in the debate over the relationship between theory and practice.' In part, this position is built on the assumption that cultural workers who write in a language that is considered complex perform the double mistake of removing themselves from the public debate about social and political issues while simultaneously violating an alleged universal referent for linguistic clarity. This view has become a rallying cry for critics on both the left and the right. It is an issue increasingly taken up in academic as well as popular journals. The stridency of its attack on complex texts, new discourses, or unconventional forms of artistic and social criticism is matched only by the impotence of its refusal to engage the limitations of its own discourse and politics. For the some on the left, it appears to be the last residue of a politics that could only be legitimated in a setting such as the university. While this position is expressed in a variety of forms, discourses, and spheres, its major theoretical assumptions regarding the relationship between language and clarity are stated succinctly in the following comment: given the overt aim of democracy, the left has to be very careful not to mystify, not to make its claims in a manner that is nearly impossible to verify or clarify. For mystification has had a number of negative effects: It has led to a partial isolation of this work on the borders of scholarship and public debate, and its marginalization has grown because of the arcane quality that characterizes some of the language the nearly mystical quality of some critical work, its tendency not to take sufficient time to clarify its basic concepts, or to write clearly cannot help but limit its impact. (Apple 1988, 4)
A Technique for Estimating the Slope-Climbing Ability of Wheeled Vehicles in Sand

IN A TESTING PROGRAM JOINTLY SUPPORTED BY THE ARMY AND THE NAVY, THE U.S. ARMY ENGINEER WATERWAYS EXPERIMENT STATION HAS CONDUCTED APPROXIMATELY 2500 TESTS OF THE ABILITY OF WHEELED MILITARY VEHICLES TO CLIMB SLOPES OF LOOSE SAND. TESTS WERE CONDUCTED ON A VARIETY OF BEACH AND DUNE SANDS. TEST PROCEDURES AND TECHNIQUES ARE DESCRIBED BRIEFLY. THE STRENGTH OF THE SAND ON THE SLOPES WAS MEASURED BY MEANS OF A CONE PENETROMETER. THE SLOPE-CLIMBING PERFORMANCE OF EACH OF THE FIVE SIZES OF VEHICLES TESTED IS SHOWN TO BE DETERMINED PRINCIPALLY BY THE STRENGTH OF THE SAND AND BY TIRE SIZE AND INFLATION PRESSURE. THE EFFECT OF EACH OF THESE VARIABLES ON PERFORM- ANCE IS DISCUSSED BRIEFLY. AN EMPIRICAL METHOD EMPLOYING FIRM-SURFACE TIRE-PRINT DATA, WHEEL LOAD, AND SAND STRENGTH IS PRESENTED AS A MEANS OF PREDICTING THE SAND SLOPE-CLIMB- ING CAPACITY OF CONVENTIONAL ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE VEHICLES. /NTIS/
Effect of outside cooling on the thermal behavior of a pressurized water reactor vessel lower head

Flooding of the reactor vessel cavity is one of many accident management strategies being proposed to manage severe accidents in light water reactors. In this paper, the effect of external cooling on the thermal behavior of the vessel lower head containing molten core material is numerically investigated using a two-dimensional implicit finite difference scheme. Results are obtained for the vessel shell temperature, pool temperature, and crust thicknesses for both unsteady and steady-state conditions. For both cases, the thermal behavior of the vessel lower head is investigated by parametrically changing the emissivity of the pool surface, the vessel wall, and the upper structure and by changing the temperature of the upper structure. For a certain set of parameters, nucleate boiling on the outer surface of the vessel wall is effective in lowering the temperature of the inner wall of the vessel below the melting temperature of steel.
The cytochrome P450 2B4-NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase electron transfer complex is not formed by charge-pairing.

Attempts to covalently link NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase to cytochrome P450 2B4 using a water-soluble carbodiimide, 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylisopropyl)carbodiimide, were unsuccessful, despite the fact that under the same conditions about 30% of P450 2B4 could be covalently linked with cytochrome b5 in a functionally active complex (Tamburini, P. P., and Schenkman, J. B. (1987) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 84, 11-15). This suggested that the functional electron transfer complex between P450 2B4 and reductase is not stabilized by electrostatic forces. Raising the ionic strength of the medium is disruptive to salt bridges and was used to further test whether P450 2B4 and the reductase form charge-pairing complexes. Instead of inhibiting electron transfer, high ionic strength increased the apparent fast phase rate constant and the fraction of P450 2B4 reduced in the fast phase. The possibility that electron transfer between NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase and P450 2B4 is diminished by charge repulsion was examined. Consistent with this hypothesis, the Km of P450 2B4 for reductase was decreased 26-fold by increasing the ionic strength from 10 to 100 mM sodium phosphate without affecting the Vmax. The rate of benzphetamine N-demethylation also was increased by elevation of the ionic strength. Electron transfer from the reductase to other charged redox acceptors, e.g. cytochrome c and ferricyanide, was also stimulated by increased ionic strength. However, no similar stimulation was observed with the uncharged acceptor 1,4-benzoquinone. Polylysine, a polypeptide that binds to anionic sites, enhanced electron transfer from NADPH to ferricyanide and the apparent fast phase of reduction of cytochrome P450. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that charges on NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase and cytochrome P450 decrease the stability of the electron transfer complex.
Hay labores (editoriales) que matan

Sanguinas. Fernando Herrera Gomez. Universidad de Pamplona, Pamplona (Colombia), 2003, s.p.
Changes in Illegal Behavior During Emerging Adulthood

Emerging adulthood marks a critical developmental juncture during which some individuals disengage from the illegal behavior of their adolescence while others continue to use substances and commit crimes. While risk factors for delinquency during adolescence are well studied, factors that influence persisting or desisting from illegal activities during emerging adulthood have not been fully explored. This mixed methods study utilizes a sample of college students aged 18-25 (N=74) and examines factors differentiating those who abstained from illegal behaviors, desisted from illegal behaviors, and persisted in illegal behaviors. Multinomial logistic regression models indicated peers offending and hours spent studying predicted desisting and peers offending predicted persisting (compared to the abstaining group). Three qualitative themes: family and peer bonds, morals and values, and fear of consequences further explained factors influencing emerging adults’ persisting and desisting choices. Implications for social work practice are explored.
Effect of theophylline on glucagon and secretin stimulated bile flow

This experiment was performed to determine the effect of theophylline on glucagon and secretin stimulated bile flow. We intended to determine the effect of theophylline, a proposed stimulant of canalicular bile flow, on the bile flow response produced by wellrecognized stimulants of canalicular (glucagon) and ductular (secretin) bile flow. Dogs with chronic bile fistulas were used. Dose-response curves for glucagon and secretin were produced by administration of a wide range of glucagon and secretin doses. The effect of 20 mg/kg/hr theophylline on the dose-response curves was determined. Theophylline significantly increased the bile flow and bile electrolyte changes produced by glucagon at low doses but not at maximal doses of glucagon for stimulation of bile flow. Theophylline significantly increased bile volume and bile electrolyte changes at all doses of secretin, including maximal doses. These results suggest that theophylline and glucagon, both purported to be stimulants of canalicular bile flow in dogs, utilize the same receptor mechanism to stimulate bile flow. The effects of secretin, a proposed ductular stimulant, are potentiated by theophylline. On a functional basis, it is possible that there are separate canalicular and ductular loci of hormone action in stimulation of bile secretion.
How good are branching rules in DPLL

The Davis-Putnam-Logemann-Loveland algorithm is one of the most popular algorithms for solving the satisfiability problem. Its efficiency depends on its choice of a branching rule. We construct a sequence of instances of the satisfiability problem that fools a variety of ``sensible'''' branching rules in the following sense: when the instance has n variables, each of the ``sensible'''' branching rules brings about Omega(2^(n/5)) recursive calls of the Davis-Putnam-Logemann-Loveland algorithm, even though only O(1) such calls are necessary.
Use of the rathus assertiveness schedule with offenders: A question of questions

The Rathus Assertiveness Schedule (RAS) was administered to a sample of young adult male offenders. Analysis of scores revealed adequate reliability and a potentially useful factor structure. However, offenders were found to achievehigher RAS scores than previously reported for college students and other normative groups. Questions concerning the meaning of RAS scores and their concurrent validity with offenders are raised.
Differential recovery of prostacyclin synthesis in cultured vascular endothelial vs. smooth muscle cells after inactivation of cyclooxygenase with aspirin

Conflicting findings from clinical trials on the use of aspirin in preventing myocardial infarction emphasize the importance of understanding the effects of aspirin on vascular cells. Cultured vascular endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells of human, rat and bovine origin synthesized prostacyclin, a key component in vascular homeostasis, when superfused with 14C arachidonic acid. Prostacyclin synthesis was inactivated following brief treatment with aspirin, which irreversibly acetylates cyclooxygenase. Marked differences were observed between endothelial and smooth muscle cells in the recovery of cyclooxygenase after aspirin treatment. Smooth muscle cells recovered within 3 hours by a process that required serum factors replaceable by epidermal growth factor (EGF) and TGF-beta. Recovery in both smooth muscle and endothelial cells was blocked by cycloheximide but not by actinomycin-D. Endothelial cell recovery occurred much more slowly, requiring up to 24 hours and was not dependent on serum factors or EGF. Furthermore, it was suppressed by growth inducing agents such as endothelial cell growth factor (ECGF) and was enhanced by conditions favoring growth arrest and cellular differentiation. Regulation of expression and recovery of cyclooxygenase following inactivation by aspirin thus differs considerably in the endothelial and smooth muscle compartments of the vasculature.
A comparison of balance performance: computerized dynamic posturography and a random motion platform.

Abstract Broglio SP, Sosnoff JJ, Rosengren KS, McShane K. A comparison of balance performance: computerized dynamic posturography and a random motion platform. Objective To establish the clinical utility of the PROPRIO 5000 as a balance assessment device by establishing convergent validity with the NeuroCom sensory organization test (SOT). Design Cross-sectional. Setting Balance research laboratory. Participants Young adults (N=40; 21.1±1.4y). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Performance on each of the 6 NeuroCom SOT testing conditions and PROPRIO 5000 dynamic motion analysis score. Results Correlational analyses between output variables yielded significant relationships between the dynamic motion analysis score from the 0 to 10 second ( r =−.38), 10 to 20 second ( r =−.34), and 20 to 30 second ( r =−.35) intervals and the SOT composite balance score. Conclusions The initial stages of the PROPRIO 5000 and the NeuroCom SOT battery may evaluate similar aspects of postural control. However, as the magnitude of PROPRIO perturbations increased, the relationship between the devices diverged and the complete PROPRIO assessment is not thought to pair with the SOT assessment. Differences between the 2 devices may be associated with varying degrees of test difficulty and the necessary postural control strategies involved in responding to continual balance perturbations (PROPRIO 5000) or to different sensory inputs (SOT).
Cost credibility and the stated preference analysis of public goods

Abstract Two recent stated preference studies include questions that explore participants’ beliefs regarding the cost amount stated in the valuation question in relation to the cost to them if the project were implemented. Results from these studies suggest that a significant proportion of people do not believe these stated cost amounts. This paper explores the implications of participants answering valuation questions that are not consistent with their beliefs regarding stated costs. As an example, the paper develops a response model for dichotomous choice stated preference questions. Participants gather project information through the stated preference experiment, form a prior distribution of costs, update the distribution of costs based on a survey's stated cost and then respond to the dichotomous choice stated preference question. The model suggests that participants will not generally respond truthfully in the sense that they may say no to a stated cost that is less than their willingness to pay for a project or yes to a stated cost that is more than their willingness to pay. While the model findings suggest potentially serious problems with stated preference estimation, the observed patterns of disbelief from the empirical studies result in downwardly biased estimates of mean willingness to pay.
Prohibiting Left-Turn Movements at Mid-Block Unsignalized Driveways: Simulation Analysis

In recent years, there has been major interest in “access management” as a new response to the ubiquitous traffic congestion problem. Among the different access management strategies is the idea of prohibiting left-turn movements at unsignalized driveways. In this study, the Corridor Simulation traffic simulation model was used to evaluate the operational impacts of different left-turn treatments at mid-block intersections on different classes of roadway facilities. The study also examined the impact of varying the arterial and driveway volume on the effectiveness of restricting direct left turns and providing alternative movements. Three different alternatives were considered for left-turn treatments at mid-block unsignalized intersections: (1) no restriction of direct left turns from or to driveways; (2) no direct left turns in or out of driveways and diverted traffic makes a U-turn at the next intersections; and (3) no direct left turns in or out of driveways and diverted traffic makes a U-turn at mid-...
Sex Differences, Women's Roles and Alcohol Use: Preliminary National Data

Alcohol consumption and problems with alcohol were compared for men and women in a secondary analysis of national data from approximately 1,000 men and 1,000 women. For both men and women, the divorced and unemployed had the highest rates of consumption and problems, with employed women not far behind. However, employed women who are married showed significantly higher rates than single employed women or married women not employed outside the home. These results were interpreted in terms of sex role stereotyping and discrimination leading to stresses for women in non-traditional roles, and possible role conflict between demands of marriage and employment due to lack of external supports for women in those roles.
An interactive tool for measurement-driven modal analysis of large-scale power systems

The desire to reduce model-dependency has driven measurement-based modal identification methods, as an alternative to analyzing linearized system models. One such measurement-based method is Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD), which has recently appeared in literature. Using this relatively fast DMD algorithm, this paper presents an interactive modal-identification tool for spatio-temporal analysis of measurement data. The tool can automatically scan through measurements, and display the values of oscillation frequency and damping ratio, as well as reconstruct signals. The use of this tool, its options, and visualization capabilities are illustrated using simulated measurements from an interconnected power grid.
Effects of R-Ratio on Crack Initiation at External Discontinuities in Autofrettaged Cylinders

Experimental work shows the effects of positive-stress ratios, or tensile-minimum stress during the fatigue cycle on the fatigue-crack initiation from holes. This simulates the effect of the residual-tensile stresses at the outside surface of autofrettaged cylinders. S-N curves and modified Goodman diagrams are shown for fatigue-crack initiation.
Considerations when analyzing investment in space transportation business ventures

Abstract Private sector investment in space transportation, as in most business situations, requires the development of realistic and believable business plans that demonstrate that if an investment is made that there is a reasonable chance that the indicated financial performance will attract the necessary financing. The business plan must also indicate the assumptions upon which the plan rests, and as has become almost second nature to the space transportation industry, the necessary role of the government in risk reduction and/or capital formation [i.e., government actions that are necessary to make the business venture financially attractive]. This paper discusses and describes several factors that must be considered, by both government and industry, when developing a business plan for obtaining financing for space transportation business ventures.
Hyper-X: Foundation for future hypersonic launch vehicles

Abstract The successful Mach-7 flight test of the Hyper-X/X-43A research vehicle has provided a major, essential demonstration of the capability of the airframe-integrated scramjet engine and hypersonic airbreathing vehicle design tools and vision vehicles. This flight was a crucial step toward establishing air-breathing hypersonic propulsion for application to space-launch vehicles and other hypersonic systems. This paper examines the significance of the flight test in advancing the state-of-the science and provides a strategic vision for achieving the dream for safe, efficient and reliable space access with air-breathing propulsion in the near future, through use of more near term approaches.
Low energy electron diffraction study of the adsorption of oxygen on a (100) Tungsten surface

Abstract Low energy electron diffraction studies of a (100) face of a tungsten crystal heated to about 1250°K in oxygen at a pressure of about 10 −7 torr, show that the adsorption proceeds through three distinct stages, each accompanied by some surface reconstruction. Diffraction patterns are interpreted to indicate that the first stage results in a surface structure containing one-half a monolayer of oxygen and the second stage in a structure containing three-quarters of a monolayer of oxygen. Diffraction features from the terminal structure strongly suggest a model wherein the surface has become faceted, the facets being planes of type 〈110〉. Beams from the individual 〈110〉 planes can be observed and, at certain electron voltages, all the (110) planes cooperate to produce a sharp bright beam. This latter beam is shown to be equivalent to a Bragg reflection from the bulk crystal. On this model we calculate the lattice parameter of the crystal to be 3.206 ± 0.01 A, close to but slightly larger than that of bulk tungsten. The adsorbed oxygen can be removed from the surface and the three structures traversed in the reverse order by heating the crystal to higher temperatures. No observable pressure increase accompanies the removal of the oxygen, for which fact possible explanations are discussed.
Sequence determinants of promoter activity

Abstract The bacteriophage P22 promoter for the antirepressor ( ant ) gene, P ant , in the absence of Arc repressor, directs the synthesis of extremely high levels of antirepressor. Overproduction of antirepressor leads secondarily to the failure to produce progeny phage upon lytic infection. A substantial fraction of revertants of P22 arc -amber phage are pseudorevertants that have acquired additional mutations that decrease the activity of the ant promoter. DNA sequence analysis of 72 independent P ant "promoter-down" mutations reveals more than 25 different alterations that define two regions critical for promoter activity. With few exceptions, these promoter-down mutations decrease the homology of P ant with the consensus promoter sequence, demonstrating that the conserved features among a large number of different wild-type promoters are the determinants of promoter strength. In general, different substitution mutations at the same site within the promoter have similar effects, resulting in either a severe or a mild reduction in promoter activity.
Integrative Oncology: Managing Cancer Pain With Complementary and Alternative Therapies

For the projected 1,638,910 patients with a diagnosis of cancer this year, the great majority of them (75–90 %) will experience cancer-related pain. A growing number of these patients will turn to complementary and alternative therapies to assist with the management of their pain and other cancer-related symptoms. The World Health Organization’s suggested approach to pain management begins with the use of time honored opioids, but recommends the use of adjuvant therapies early in the management process. Complementary and alternative therapies are being used by more patients each year to assist with the management of their pain. Practitioners and researchers must be aware of the evidence that exists to support or refute the use of these therapies. In this manuscript we review evidence from the recent past on complementary and alternative therapies for pain with emphasis on more common modalities including acupuncture, bio-energy, massage, and music.
“Indians,” “Braves,” and “Redskins”: A performative struggle for control of an image

Native American groups across the country have been protesting the use of their symbols and heritage in sports arenas for over a decade. Yet, particularly in the realm of professional sports, these protests have not generated significant changes in attitudes and practices. This critical essay examines several Native American protest events to reveal the factors contributing to the failure of the reform movement and to suggest some strategies for rhetorically reformulating the campaign.
Isolation of chromoplasts from carrots.

Abstract Procedures were described for the isolation of orange and red fractions of chromoplasts from carrots. The fractions showed wide variations in their content of carotene and probably represent different stages of development of the chromoplasts. Observations were reported which support the hypothesis that the carotene content of the chromoplasts of carrots varies in multiples of the same unit amount. The possible relation to the lamellar structure of the chromoplasts was discussed.
Noise Analysis in Parametric Resonance Based Mass Sensing

Mass sensing based on parametric resonance has shown high sensitivity and has many potential applications in chemical and biological sensing. We investigate noise effects on the sensitivity of mass sensing using parametric resonance. Temperature fluctuation noise, Johnson noise, and Brownian motion noise have been considered. Numerical simulation and experimental results show that noise affects the sensitivity of parametric resonance mass sensing in different mechanism from simple harmonic resonance based mass sensor and Brownian motion noise of the micro-oscillator has the major contribution to the frequency uncertainty at the boundary of parametric resonance area and the sensitivity in mass sensing.
Low-sodium DASH reduces oxidative stress and improves vascular function in salt-sensitive humans

Salt induces oxidative stress in salt-sensitive (SS) animals and man. It is not known whether in SS subjects the low-sodium dietary approaches to stop hypertension (LS-DASH) reduces oxidative stress more than DASH, which is high in antioxidants. To assess the effects of DASH and LS-DASH on oxidative stress, 19 volunteers were studied after 3 weeks of a standardized usual low fruits and vegetables diet (ULFV), followed by 3 weeks on DASH (both diets approximately 120 mmol Na(+) per day), then 3 weeks on LS-DASH (60 mmol Na(+) per day). SS was defined as systolic blood pressure >or=5 mm Hg lower on LS-DASH than DASH. In SS subjects (N=9), systolic blood pressure was lower on LS-DASH (111.0+/-2.0 mm Hg) than DASH (118.0+/-2.2, P<0.01) and ULFV (122.3+/-2.7, P=0.002). In salt-resistant (SR) volunteers (N=10), systolic blood pressure was lower on DASH (113.0+/-1.6) than ULFV (119.0+/-1.8, P<0.05) but not LS-DASH (115.7+/-1.8). Urine F2-isoprostanes, a marker of oxidative stress, were lower in SS subjects on LS-DASH (1.69+/-0.24) than ULFV (3.09+/-0.50, P<0.05) and marginally lower than DASH (2.46+/-0.44, P<0.20). F2-isoprostanes were not different among the three diets in SR volunteers (2.18+/-0.29, 2.06+/-0.29, 2.27+/-0.53, respectively). Aortic augmentation index, a measure of vascular stiffness, was lower in SS subjects on LS-DASH than either DASH or ULFV, and lower on DASH than ULFV in SR volunteers. In SS but not SR subjects, LS-DASH is associated with lower values for F2-isoprostanes and the aortic augmentation index. The results suggest that LS-DASH decreases oxidative stress, improves vascular function and lowers blood pressure in SS but not SR volunteers.