cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optical Limiting Characteristics of Dendrons and Dendrimers Incorporating Dithienylpolyene Moieties

Over the past decade there has been considerable progress in the design of new chromophores for potential optical limiting applications. Most of the focus has been centered on molecules that are capable of efficient excited state absorptions whose cross-sections are larger than the original π-π* excitation cross-section, usually referred to as reverse saturable absorbers (RSAs). The vast majority of chromophores having RSA characteristics depend on efficient intersystem crossing from the excited state singlet (S1) to a highly absorbing and relatively long-lived triplet state (T1). However, much less attention has been paid to alternative excited state absorptions, particularly from charge states such as polaronic radical-ions and bipolaronic diions. In this presentation, we propose that monodisperse dendrimers based on dendron coupling to core molecules such as bisphenol A are potential optical limiting materials based on photo-generation of such charge states in the dendron-attached chromophores, such as dithienylpolyenes. The design and syntheses of these dendrons and dendrimers are presented, and the absorption characteristics of the most likely charge states discussed from an optical limiting perspective.
Blonde Trouble: Women in Wigs in the Wake of Thermidor

In the months after the death of Robespierre, blond wigs became the fad among Parisian women, a trend repeatedly denounced in the press and in plays. My essay explores the politics of female self-fashioning in this transitional moment by examining a series of comedies about false blondes. Studying the works in relation to one another and to audience reactions, it shows how the controversial new hairstyle offered an occasion for reflecting upon the trauma of the Terror and imagining alternate forms of justice and government.
Preparative free-flow electrofocusing in a vortex-stabilized annulus

This paper describes the development of an annular chamber designed for preparative free-flow electrophoresis which can operate at voltages up to 20 kV, electric fields up to 65 kV/m, and power densities as high as 10 MW/m(3). This apparatus uses counter-rotating fluid vortices to stabilize the aqueous medium in the annulus against natural convection while improving heat and mass transfer over vortex-free Couette flow. The vortices are generated by rotating the inner surface of the annulus and, if the rotor and stator have complementary shapes, dispersion induced by electrokinetic and electrohydrodynamic flows can be mitigated even at the highest operating voltages. Following a brief overview of contemporary annular free-flow instrumentation, the theoretical principles for momentum and heat transport in the vortices are discussed in some detail and then the results of several electrofocusing experiments are provided to illustrate the resolving power of this instrument.
Refining Protein Interaction Networks with Protein Structure and Kinetic Modeling

Protein interaction networks build off both high-throughput and curated experimental data to provide a global picture of the complex and interconnected functional pathways in the cell. However, these networks represent only a time averaged snapshot of the dynamic cellular environment where it is difficult to assess the strength, frequency, and uniqueness of pairs of binding partners. We demonstrate through computational modeling and network analysis how a protein's position in a network and the overall topology of the network can influence the number of interfaces the protein uses, its binding equilibrium, and its concentration. Our systematic analysis provides a practical tool for improving the details presented in a protein interaction network and therefore better characterizing the dynamics of the protein interactions. This analysis also presents a means for predicting false negatives in small networks. Our model of protein interactions explicitly accounts for the ability of proteins to form nonspecific complexes through transient encounters in the crowded cellular environment. This work further supports the hypothesis that the need to suppress nonfunctional interactions acts as a control on the types of protein interaction networks and the relative concentration of proteins observed in cellular compartments.
Some novel surface modification applications of a new kind of high current metal ion implantation facility

A novel high current metal ion implantation facility has been developed in which a metal vapor vacuum arc ion source is used. The source is operated in a pulsed mode, with pulse width 0.25 msec and repetition rate up to 100 pps. Beam extraction voltage is up to 100 kV and beam current up to several amperes peak and 10–20 mA time averaged delivered onto target. Implantation is done in a broad beam mode with a direct line of sight from ion source to target. Virtually all of the solid metals of the Periodic Table can be used. The facility has been used for a variety of different research applications, including metallurgical surface modification, high temperature oxidation resistance, ‘fine tuning’ of the composition of highT c superconducting thin films, formation of buried conducting layers in silicon, and other research purposes. Here we describe the implantation facility and some of the research programs carried out at our laboratory and collaboratively with others.
E-mail and Ethical Issues

The proliferation of the use of e-mail and texting has created some ethical dilemmas for family counselors. Although e-mail can expand and encourage communication, it is not problem free and, in fact, can pose problems. There are issues with privacy, confidentiality, and maintaining an appropriate professional relationship. Family counselors should be aware of the promises and pitfalls in using e-mail and related technologies.
Formula Electric: Design and Integration

A new electric power train design to power an open-wheel, single seat electric race car to compete in the 2014 SAE Formula Electric competition is presented. This research project is part of the clean technology initiative for sustainable energy sources for automotive application proposed by the Santa Clara University Formula Electric (SCUFE) team. In this paper, a new battery pack design and integration is evaluated. This includes analysis of battery cell connectivity, cell enclosure, safety system, and battery control system. The cell connectivity proposed will maximize electrical conduction through surface area contact of the cell tabs while allowing for quick removal of individual cells in the case of cell failure. The structure of the pack enclosure will consist of polycarbonate panels. The connection panels will be mounted between the wall enclosure lid and wall in order to prevent the pack from being opened when the contactors are engaged, preventing the risk of exposure to high voltage. The proposed design allows the pack to be completely removed from the vehicle for easier disassembly and transportation. The exterior connections will consist of one large plug for the power cables as well as a smaller plug assembly for the battery management system (BMS) and other necessary sensors and connections. Cell voltage states will be monitored through the BMS. In addition, maximum voltage capacity and cell storage capacity will be analyzed and discussed. Recommendations on future designs will also be presented in light of preliminary results on the efficiency versus performance.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Immunohistochemical Estrogen Receptor Assessment in Hyperplastic, Neoplastic, and Physiologic Endometria

Summary Endometrial hyperplasias and some endometrial carcinomas arise in a setting of estrogen excess. Steroid hormones interact with cells via specific receptors; assessing receptor levels may indicate a tissue's potential for interaction with that hormone. To examine estrogen receptor (ER) levels in endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial carcinoma, and physiologically cycling endometrium, an immunohistochemical technique utilizing a monoclonal anti-estro philin (estrogen receptor) antibody was applied to formalin-fixed, paraffinembedded tissue. In complex hyperplasia and grade I adenocarcinoma, the mean percentages of epithelial cells demonstrating nuclear staining for ER was mildly decreased compared to proli f erative endometrium. A trend was noted toward less ER staining in atypical hyperplasia compared to non-atypical complex hyperplasia. ER varied with physiologic cycling of the endometrium. ER was also present in atrophic endometrium, myometrium, adenomyosis, and leiomyomata. Immunohistochemistry permits localization of ER and is a useful technique in ER assessment of endometrial hyperplasias and carcinomas.
Classification and diagnosis of undescended testes.

A uniform classification of undescended testes is proposed; diagnosis and treatment, which vary for each condition are outlined lastly, the prognosis which also differs for each type of undescended testes is illustrated by empirical data.
Ownership structure and corporate liquidity policy

This study analyzes the relationship between corporate liquidity (i.e. the fraction of assets invested in cash and marketable securities) and managerial ownership in the firm's stock. We postulate a negative relationship between excess liquidity and managerial stock ownership as the managers' interests shift from protecting the value of their human capital to maximizing the value of their stockholdings. This managerial behavior is constrained by the disciplining forces of the firm's product market structure and the market for corporate control. While the tests fail to reveal any significant impact of managerial stock ownership, they show that firm liquidity is positively related to the firm's ability to earn economic rents.
γ-Tubulin in tobacco pollen tubes: association with generative cell and vegetative microtubules

γ-Tubulin was localized in tobacco pollen tubes using an antibody raised against a peptide conserved in all known γ-tubulins. Antibody staining occurs in a primarily punctate pattern along the length of the microtubule bundles in generative cells and along cortical microtubules in the vegetative cytoplasm. During generative cell division, γ-tubulin is localized in the forming mitotic apparatus. By metaphase, it is present along kinetochore fibers except at their plus ends located at the kinetochores. By telophase, staining is observed in the phragmoplast, where it again avoids the plus ends of microtubules at the cell plate. γ-Tubulin is also present at the periphery of the sperm nuclei. A patch of intense staining on the distal side of each nucleus marks the site of assembly of a new population of sperm microtubules. No specific fluorescence is present in control pollen tubes treated with preimmune IgG. These localization patterns bear similarities to those seen in somatic cells and in addition may help explain changes in microtubule arrays between generative cells and sperm.
Experimental investigation of dust particle deposition in a turbulent channel flow

Abstract An experimental set-up was designed, constructed, and used to study the wall deposition rate of particles in a turbulent channel flow. Deposition velocities for two classes of particles, namely, spherical glass particles with diameters of 5–45 μm, and five compact dust components in the size range of 1–10 μm were studied. The particle concentration at the test section was measured with the aid of an isokinetic probe. The particles were deposited onto a flat gold plate covered with a thin film coating. The coating was used to reduce the effect of particle bounce from the surface. The statistics of deposited particles were analyzed by an image processing technique which counts and sizes the particles. The deposition rate of spherical particles was found to increase with diameter. The deposition velocities for compact dust components were found to closely resemble those of equivalent spherical particles. The measured deposition velocities were in good agreement with the available experimental data and the empirical model.
Synthesis of highly fluorescent and thio-linkers stabilize gold quantum dots and nano clusters in DMF for bio-labeling

This study demonstrates a one versus two-step synthesis of fluorescent gold quantum dots (F-AuQDs) and nano clusters (F-AuNCs) functionalized with thiolated organic linkers using reduction of gold precursor in N,N′-dimethylformamide in 1 h of reaction. The F-AuQDs and F-AuNCs show fluorescence emission at 425 ± 5 nm upon excitation at 345 ± 5 nm of wavelength, with good water solubility and stability. Five different thiolated organic binary linkers consisting of various functional groups including: carboxylic acid, hydroxyl, and aromatic amine, were conjugated with the F-AuQDs and F-AuNCs. The formation mechanism and functionalization of the F-AuQDs and F-AuNCs was characterized using UV–vis absorption spectra, UV–vis light, fluorescent emission spectra, pH, TEM, and FTIR. The fluorescence emission of the F-AuQDs and F-AuNCs is greatly dependent on the thio-linker. This novel one-step approach provides facile and fast synthesis of F-AuQDs and F-AuNCs over the two-step method, with less than 5 h of reaction and workup compared to more than 28 h of reaction for the two-step approach. These thio-linker functionalized F-AuQDs and F-AuNCs have a wide application in fluorescent labeling of biomolecules, optical devices, imaging, energy transfer, and biosensing.
The versatile axial pattern digital transposition flap

The anatomic and clinical basis for a reliable and versatile axial pattern transposition flap for reconstruction of complex distal finger injuries is presented. This is a one-step procedure utilizing the nondominant side digital skin with possible preservation of the nerve to the fingertip. This flap obviates the necessity for a distant donor site and provides nonbulky good quality tissue. In eight patients requiring nine flaps, it has proved valuable in the salvage of severely injured digits. These injuries probably would have required distant flap reconstruction or flaps that might have jeopardized adjacent digits.
Recent California Water Year Precipitation Deficits: A 440-Year Perspective*

AbstractAn analysis of the October 2013–September 2014 precipitation in the western United States and in particular over the California–Nevada region suggests this anomalously dry season, while extreme, is not unprecedented in comparison with the approximately 120-yr-long instrumental record of water year (WY; October–September) totals and in comparison with a 407-yr WY precipitation reconstruction dating back to 1571. Over this longer period, nine other years are known or estimated to have been nearly as dry or drier than WY 2014. The 3-yr deficit for WYs 2012–14, which in California exceeded the annual mean precipitation, is more extreme but also not unprecedented, occurring three other times over the past approximate 440 years in the reconstruction. WY precipitation has also been deficient on average for the past 14 years, and such a run of predominantly dry WYs is also a rare occurrence in the authors’ merged reconstructed plus instrumental period record.
The Dirty Dozen: Classroom Demonstration of Twelve Instigators of Aggression

A classroom exercise for demonstrating 12 instigators o f aggression is described. Videotapes of scenes from movies that depicted aggression were brought to class by some students. All students in class then judged the scenes for the presence or absence of 12 instigators of aggression. Pedagogical benefits of the activity are discussed.
Statistical analysis of baseline load models for non-residential buildings

Policymakers are encouraging the development of standardized and consistent methods to quantify the electric load impacts of demand response programs. For load impacts, an essential part of the analysis is the estimation of the baseline load profile. In this paper, we present a statistical evaluation of the performance of several different models used to calculate baselines for commercial buildings participating in a demand response program in California. In our approach, we use the model to estimate baseline loads for a large set of proxy event days for which the actual load data are also available. Measures of the accuracy and bias of different models, the importance of weather effects, and the effect of applying morning adjustment factors (which use data from the day of the event to adjust the estimated baseline) are presented. Our results suggest that (1) the accuracy of baseline load models can be improved substantially by applying a morning adjustment, (2) the characterization of building loads by variability and weather sensitivity is a useful indicator of which types of baseline models will perform well, and (3) models that incorporate temperature either improve the accuracy of the model fit or do not change it.
Lack of conversion of C29-phytosterols to cholesterol in the khapra beetle,Trogoderma granarium Everts

Metabolic studies in which3H-sitosterol,3H-stigmasterol, and14C-desmosterol were administered by feeding and injection to the khapra beetle,Trogoderma granarium Everts, provided strong evidence that this insect is unable to dealkylate phytosterols and convert them to cholesterol.
When Boy Meets Girl: Attractiveness and the Five-Factor Model in Opposite-Sex Interactions☆

Abstract Fifty-one previously unacquainted opposite-sex dyads were surreptitiously videotaped while participating in an initial six-min interaction. Participants subsequently described their feelings about the interaction and their partner. Observers later viewed the interactions and evaluated their quality. We examined the ability of participants' physical attractiveness and scores on dimensions of the “big five” model of personality to predict the quality of their interactions. Women's physical attractiveness—but not their personality scores—predicted their own, their partner's, and observers' evaluations of interaction quality, with more attractive women experiencing better quality interactions than less attractive women. Conversely, men's personality scores—extraversion, in particular—predicted their own and observers' ratings of the quality of their interactions, with more extraverted men experiencing better quality interactions than less extraverted men. Men's physical attractiveness was unrelated to any measure of interaction quality. Similarity in dyad members' attractiveness was also unrelated to evaluations of their interactions. The data are interpreted within evolutionary accounts of sex differences in attractiveness preferences.
The Effect of Large-Scale Convergence on the Generation and Maintenance of Deep Moist Convection

Abstract The effect of large-scale convergence on the generation and maintenance of deep moist convection is examined with a numerical cloud model. The term large-scale is defused as a scale an order of magnitude greater than the convective scale. Convergence is included in the model by imposing a momentum forcing at the lowest levels of the domain. The simulations are initialized with the linear response to this forcing. It is shown that large-scale convergence has an important effect both before and after the generation of convection. Before convection commences, the convergence lifts the atmosphere to saturation, or close to saturation, over a wide region. This means that once convection begins, the air entering the system requires little further lifting and it is demonstrated that this allows the system to maintain itself without the additional lifting that evaporative cooling produces. This is in contrast to a system which is generated in an unsaturated environment by an initial warm bubble perturbat...
Neurological correlates of high-risk behavior: a case study of Alphonse Capone.

Neurological impairment, traumatic brain injury, and childhood trauma and abuse are all associated with violent and high-risk behaviors among prison inmates. This case study examines the medical history of a notorious criminal--Alphonse Capone. Records suggest an association between Capone's declining neurological condition and an increase in high-risk behaviors. Prison, criminal, media, and medical records from the National Archives and other sources were studied to identify relationships to current research data describing neurological abnormalities of prison inmates. Healthcare providers can play a critical role in identifying at-risk youths, potentially reducing the incidence of high-risk behaviors associated with both crime and infectious disease transmission. Language: en
Wavelength-dispersive double flat-crystal analyzer for inelastic X-ray scattering

A double flat-crystal analyzer for inelastic X-ray scattering is described. The general correlation between the energy and direction of the X-rays transmitted by the analyzer allows one to collect data for a range of energy transfers simultaneously. Such an analyzer with 120 meV resolution was built to operate at the copper K edge. Experimental results show that this X-ray optic can be an alternative to a conventional spherical-focusing backscattering analyzer in resonant inelastic X-ray scattering experiments or when flexible energy resolution or high momentum resolution is required.
Comparison of polyurethane foam and XAD-2 sampling matrices to measure airborne organophosphorus pesticides and their oxygen analogs in an agricultural community.

Side-by-side active air sampling for the organophosphorus (OP) pesticide, chlorpyrifos (CPF) and its oxygen analog, chlorpyrifos-oxon (CPF-O) was conducted with two recommended air sampling matrices: OSHA Versatile Sampling (OVS) tubes with XAD-2 resin, polyurethane foam (PUF) tubes, and passive PUF deposition disks. The study compared the proportion of artificially transformed CPF-O in the laboratory and in the field during a tree fruit application in Washington State. Lab results demonstrated that the NIOSH-recommended OVS tubes artificially transformed up to 32% of CPF to CPF-O during the sampling process, whereas PUF tubes had little to no artificial transformation (⩽0.1%). In the field, the proportion of CPF-O in the sample was significantly higher on OVS tubes than on PUF tubes (p < 0.001), confirming that OVS tubes were converting a significant portion of CPF to CPF-O. In addition, PUF tubes reported measurable levels CPF-O in the field even when no artificial transformation was expected. We conclude that the PUF matrix is the superior sampling medium for OP oxygen analogs when compared to XAD-two resin. Community-located PUF tube samples 24 h post-application had considerably higher levels CPF-O (16–21 ng m−3) than near field samples during application (2–14 ng m−3), suggesting that the oxygen analog is volatile and formed during atmospheric transport. It is recommended that worker and community risk assessments begin to take into consideration the presence of the more toxic oxygen analogs when measuring for OP pesticide mixtures.
Implications of MMPI/MMPI–A Findings for Understanding Adolescent Development and Psychopathology

The MMPI (Hathaway & McKinley, 1943) and the MMPI–Adolescent (MMPI–A; Butcher et al., 1992) have been used in the evaluation of adolescents for over 60 years, resulting in over 200 studies involving tens of thousands of adolescents. This literature not only informs us concerning characteristics of this test instrument but also holds important implications for our understanding of adolescent development and psychopathology. In this article, based on an invited master lecture at the 2005 Annual Meeting of the Society for Personality Assessment, I present several points illustrating the relevance of MMPI and MMPI–A research in enriching our understanding of adolescence.
X-Ray Fluorescence Microscopy Analysis of Metal-Rich Inclusion Bodies in Adult Neural Stem Cells in Situ

Imaging of metal distributions in rodent brains by X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XRF) revealed very concentrated (300 mM) localized (1 μm diameter) Cu deposits in periventricular neural stem cells. As it does not require alteration of the physiological metal concentration, XRF provides an ideal means to study the metal rich inclusion bodies in situ towards elucidating their biological function. It is first shown by XANES recorded from untreated tissue that Cu is bound as part of a multimetallic Cu-S cluster; imaging at 30 nm resolution reveals a consistent [S]/[Cu] ratio to be 1.66 ± 0.07. Accordingly, it is proposed that metallothionein (MT), a cysteine-rich protein known bind metals with high affinity as the binding protein. Parallel analysis of MT(1,2) knockout mice reveals that in the absence of MT(1,2), inclusions contain 40% less Cu while no other metals show significant variation anywhere else in the brain. Occurrence of inclusion bodies along the ventricle wall in MT(1,2)KO mice is three times lower in comparison with WT mice. Inclusions in mutants also exhibit indistinguishable XANES spectra and [S]/[Cu] ratios from wild-type controls. From neural stem cell basal bioavailability, these results suggest that MT3, a third MT isoform present only in the central nervous system, is capable of fulfilling the role of MT(1,2) in inclusion body formation. Finally, it is shown that inclusion bodies reside neither in lysosomes nor are they ubiquitinated. Periventricular astrocyte localization, morphology, and elemental composition suggest that these Cu bodies are homologous to previously reported Gomori-positive inclusion bodies which were thought to accumulate and gave rise to cell death via reactive oxygen species production in advanced age; their lack of involvement in an autophagy, however, suggests a new, currently unknown role for these Cu-rich inclusions.
Testing equality of means in the presence of correlation

SUMMARY The problem considered here is that of testing equality of means in the presence of correlation when a sample from a bivariate normal population is available. The procedure studied for this purpose involves a preliminary test of a hypothesis concerning the population correlation coefficient. When some observations on one of the variables are missing a statistic used to test the hypothesis of equality of means is suggested. The power of this test is compared with that of the paired t test. It is well known that in testing for equality of means of two independent normal populations the t statistic based on two independent samples is appropriate. On the other hand, in testing for equality of means of two correlated normal populations the t statistic based on the differences of the observations in the two samples is appropriate. It may happen, however, that one is uncertain whether or not the populations from which the samples are taken are correlated. In such a situation the paired t test could be employed but such a solution to the problem would leave something to be desired. To be more specific, if the populations are actually independent but the experimenter does not know this and uses a paired t test, this could result in a loss in sensitivity because a test based on independent samples has twice the number of degrees of freedom as the paired t test based on correlated samples. In the presence of uncertainty of correlation, therefore, it is important to utilize the data to the best advantage. One purpose of this paper is to develop a procedure for testing equality of means in the presence of possible correlation or lack of it. A further problem which will also be considered is how to test equality of means when some observations from one of the populations are missing.
RESEARCH ON POLICY IMPLEMENTATION: ASSESSMENT AND PROSPECTS

While policy implementation no longer frames the core question of public management and public policy, some scholars have debated appropriate steps for revitalization. And the practical world stands just as much in need now of valid knowledge about policy implementation as ever. Where has all the policy implementation gone? Or at least all the scholarly signs of it? And why? What has the field accomplished? Should a resurgence of attention to the subject be exhorted? And if so, in what directions? This article considers these questions as foci of an assessment of the state of the field, and the argument reaches somewhat unconventional conclusions: There is more here than meets the eye. While modest to moderate progress can be noted on a number of fronts, an initial assessment is likely to understate the extent of work underway on matters quite close to the implementation theme. Research on policy implementation-like questions has partially transmogrified. One has to look, sometimes, in unusual places and be informed by a broader logic of intellectual development to make sense of the relevant scholarship. Policy implementation work, in short, continues to bear relevance for important themes of policy and management. But some of the discourse has shifted, the questions have broadened, and the agenda has become complicated. Research on implementation, under whatever currently fashionable labels, is alive and lively.
Solvent-Free Composite PEO-Ceramic Fiber/Mat Electrolytes for Lithium Secondary Cells

Solvent-free composite poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-ceramic fiber or mat electrolytes with high ionic conductivity and good interfacial stability have been developed using high-ionic-conductivity La 0 . 5 5 Li 0 . 3 5 TiO 3 fibers and mats. The conducting ceramic fibers can penetrate the cross section of the electrolyte film to provide long-range lithium-ion transfer channels, thus producing composite electrolytes with high conductivity. In this work, a maximum room-temperature conductivity of 5.0 X 10 - 4 S cm - 1 was achieved for 20 wt % La 0 . 5 5 Li 0 . 3 5 TiO 3 fiber in a PEO-LiN(SO 2 CF 2 CF 3 ) 2 mixture containing 12.5 wt % Li + in PEO. The maximum transference number obtained was 0.7. The ceramic fibers in this composite electrolyte are coated by a very thin PEO layer, which is sufficient to provide good interfacial stability with lithium-ion and lithium-metal anodes.
Growth of rare-earth niobate-based pyrochlores on textured Ni-W substrates with ionic radii dependency

Epitaxial films of rare-earth (RE) niobates, RE3NbO7 with pyrochlore structures, were grown on biaxially textured nickel–3 at.% tungsten (Ni–W) substrates using a chemical solution deposition process. A precursor solution of 0.3–0.50 M concentration of total cations was spin coated on to short samples of Ni–W substrates, and the films were crystallized at 1050–1100 °C in a gas mixture of Ar–4% H2 for 15 min. Detailed studies revealed that RE-niobates with ionic radius ratio RRE/RNb (R β ionic radius) from 1.23 to 1.40 (i.e., Sm, Eu, Gd, Ho, Y, and Yb) grow epitaxially with the pyrochlore structure. X-ray studies showed that the films of pyrochlore RE niobate films were highly textured with cube-on-cube epitaxy. Scanning electron and atomic force microscopy investigations of RE3NbO7 films revealed a fairly dense and smooth microstructure without cracks and porosity. The rare-earth niobate layers may be potentially used as buffer layers for YBa2Cu3O7−δ coated conductors.
Secular trends in echocardiographic left ventricular mass in the community: the Framingham Heart Study

Objective To investigate secular trends in echocardiographically determined left ventricular mass (LVM). Design, setting and participants Longitudinal community-based cohort study in Framingham, Massachussetts. LVM was calculated from routine echocardiography in 4320 participants (52% women) of the Framingham offspring cohort at examination cycles 4 (1987–1991), 5 (1991–1995), 6 (1995–1998) and 8 (2005–2008), totalling 13 971 person-observations. Main outcome measures Sex-specific trends in mean LVM (and its components, LV diastolic diameter (LVDD) and LV wall thickness (LVWT)), and LVM indexed to body surface area (BSA). Results In men, age-adjusted LVM modestly increased from examination 4 to 8 (192 g to 198 g, p-trend=0.0005), whereas, in women it decreased from 147 g at examination 4 to 140 g at examination 8 (p-trend Conclusions In our longitudinal analysis of a large community-based sample spanning two decades, we observed sex-related differences in trends in LVM, with a modest increase of LVM in men (likely attributable to increasing body size), but a decrease in women. Additional studies are warranted to elucidate the basis for these sex-related differences.
Coronaviruses Induce Entry-Independent, Continuous Macropinocytosis

Macropinocytosis is exploited by many pathogens for entry into cells. Coronaviruses (CoVs) such as severe acute re- spiratory syndrome (SARS) CoV and Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV are important human pathogens; however, mac- ropinocytosis during CoV infection has not been investigated. We demonstrate that the CoVs SARS CoV and murine hepatitis virus (MHV) induce macropinocytosis, which occurs late during infection, is continuous, and is not associated with virus entry. MHV-induced macropinocytosis results in vesicle internalization, as well as extendedfilopodia capable of fusing with distant cells. MHV-induced macropinocytosis requires fusogenic spike protein on the cell surface and is dependent on epidermal growth factor receptor activation. Inhibition of macropinocytosis reduces supernatant viral titers and syncytia but not intracellular vi- rus titers. These results indicate that macropinocytosis likely facilitates CoV infection through enhanced cell-to-cell spreading. Our studies are thefirst to demonstrate virus use of macropinocytosis for a role other than entry and suggest a much broader potential exploitation of macropinocytosis in virus replication and host interactions. IMPORTANCE Coronaviruses (CoVs), including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) CoV and Middle East respiratory syn- drome CoV, are critical emerging human pathogens. Macropinocytosis is induced by many pathogens to enter host cells, but other functions for macropinocytosis in virus replication are unknown. In this work, we show that CoVs induce a macropinocy- tosis late in infection that is continuous, independent from cell entry, and associated with increased virus titers and cell fusion. Murine hepatitis virus macropinocytosis requires a fusogenic virus spike protein and signals through the epidermal growth fac- tor receptor and the classical macropinocytosis pathway. These studies demonstrate CoV induction of macropinocytosis for a purpose other than entry and indicate that viruses likely exploit macropinocytosis at multiple steps in replication and pathogen- esis.
Ayurvedic Medicine for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Ayurvedic medicine is the traditional medicine of India, which originated over 5,000 years ago. Parts of this alternative medical system have become increasingly popular worldwide as patients seek approaches to medical care that they perceive as more holistic and less toxic than those offered by conventional Western medicine. Despite the advent of highly effective pharmacologic therapy, most individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) continue to use alternative therapy at some point in the treatment of their disease. This report discusses some of the in-vitro data that suggest potential mechanisms through which Ayurvedic herbal medicines might have beneficial actions in rheumatoid arthritis, and the available clinical data evaluating the use of Ayurvedic medicine for RA.
Fused microfiber resonators

We demonstrate a ∼2.6 mm-diameter optical ring resonator fabricated from a 7.2 µm-thick silica fiber with a CO 2 laser- fused coupling region for mechanical robustness. We experimentally obtain a Q-factor of ≥25,000 at 1.55 µm.
Structure of bromochlorofluoromethane by electron diffraction

Abstract Structure parameters for bromochlorofluoromethane, HCBrClF, were determined from gas phase electron diffraction intensities. Little useful information concerning the position of the hydrogen atom was obtained. The main carbon—halogen parameters, in an ra basis are: r(CF) = 1.348(5) A, r(CCl) = 1.753(5) A, r(CBr) = 1.927(6) A, ∠FCCl = 109.6(6)°, ∠FCBr = 109.2(6)°, and ∠ClCBr = 111.5(4)°. If the hydrogen were to be located equi-angularly from the three CX bonds, an angle ∠HCX = 108.8° would result. Vibrational amplitudes based on published force fields were calculated and compared with the diffraction results.
A review of montelukast in the treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis

Montelukast sodium (Singulair, Merck) is a selective and orally-active leukotriene-receptor antagonist (LTRA) that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene 1 (CysLT1) receptor. Montelukast is an effective and well-tolerated preventative treatment for asthma and allergic rhinitis in adults and children. The upper and lower airway show similar inflammatory responses to allergen challenge. Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators that are known as the slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis produced by a number of cell types including mast cells, eosinophils, basophils, macrophages and monocytes. Synthesis of these mediators results from the cleavage of arachidonic acid in cell membranes and they exert their biological effects by binding and activating specific receptors. This occurs in a series of events that lead to contraction of the human airway smooth muscle, chemotaxis and increased vascular permeability. These effects have led to their important role in the diseases of asthma and allergic rhinitis. As these agents lead to the production of symptoms in patients that are asthmatic or allergic, the use of LTRAs, particularly montelukast, may seem appropriate. Clinical trials have shown that montelukast is effective and safe in the treatment of patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis or both diseases.
Polymer nanotechnology: Nanocomposites

Abstract In the large field of nanotechnology, polymer matrix based nanocomposites have become a prominent area of current research and development. Exfoliated clay-based nanocomposites have dominated the polymer literature but there are a large number of other significant areas of current and emerging interest. This review will detail the technology involved with exfoliated clay-based nanocomposites and also include other important areas including barrier properties, flammability resistance, biomedical applications, electrical/electronic/optoelectronic applications and fuel cell interests. The important question of the “nano-effect” of nanoparticle or fiber inclusion relative to their larger scale counterparts is addressed relative to crystallization and glass transition behavior. Of course, other polymer (and composite)-based properties derive benefits from nanoscale filler or fiber addition and these are addressed.
Directional variability in the R wave response during serial exercise testing in patients with coronary artery disease

The reproducibility of the direction of R wave amplitude response to exercise was analyzed in patients with coronary artery disease. Forty-three serial exercise tests were performed by 10 patients with exertional angina pectoris and documented coronary artery disease (CAD). Seventeen tests (37%) resulted in no change or an increase in R wave amplitude (abnormal response). Twenty-six tests (63%) resulted in a decrease in R wave amplitude. The direction of the R wave amplitude response was variable in at least one exercise test in 7 of 10 patients with CAD, all of whom had reproducible ischemic ST segment responses during serial testing. The inconsistent R wave response in these patients was unrelated to heart rate, workload, or duration of exercise. Because of the variability in the directional R wave response during serial exercise testing in CAD patients, we conclude that the R wave response during exercise is unreliable for the detection of CAD or ischemia-related myocardial dysfunction.
Improving the Persuasive Essay Writing of High School Students with ADHD

Students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often experience serious academic deficits. One area that is particularly problematic is written expression. This study assesses the effectiveness of a persuasive essay-writing strategy taught by using the self-regulated strategy development model on the writing skills of 3 high school students with ADHD. Results indicate a marked improvement in the number of essay elements, length, and holistic quality of students' essays. Planning time also increased. The students maintained gains at 3-week follow-up. The article also discusses implications for future research and practice.
On the complexity of optimal tree pruning for source coding

Tree-structured vector quantization is a technique to represent a codebook that simplifies encoding as well as quantizer design. The authors define the notion of an optimal pruned tree subject to a cost constraint, and study the computational complexity of finding such a tree. Under the assumption that all trees are equally probable, it is shown that on average the number of pruned trees in a given tree is exponential in the number of leaves. Finding an optimal pruned tree subject to constraints such as entropy or the expected depth is NP-hard. However, when the constraint is the number of leaves, the problem can be solved in O(nk) time, where n is the size of the initial tree and k the constraint size. Experimental results for image compression show the performance of the optimal pruned tree to be comparable with that of full-search vector quantizers. >
The Pivotal Role of Beta-adrenoreceptors in Critical Illness Pathophysiology

The coordinated, emergent regulation of nervous, endocrine, hemodynamic and metabolic processes in response to critical illness is characterized by marked release of catecholamines. Despite several-fold increases in circulating catecholamines, which correlate with clinical outcome, there is a limited understanding of the receptor and cellular consequences of this fundamental critical illness response. Beta-adrenoreceptors are pivotal in the response to this catecholamine surge, playing disparate roles in shaping physiological responses during different stages of critical illness. Here we review mechanisms and common disease processes through which acute and chronic alterations in β-adrenoreceptor physiology may affect important components of critical illness and discuss emerging therapeutic roles for beta-adrenoreceptor manipulation.
Knowing Who Knows What: Information Technology, Knowledge Visibility, and Organizational Change

The current application of transactive memory theory to the use of knowledge management systems takes expertise as a central and relatively stable concept. However, expertise is a socially defined and contextually dependent construct. The present study examines how knowledge management tools can facilitate negotiations of expertise by displaying knowledge that was previously invisible to group members. This visible knowledge is then used to ascribe expertise to individuals and determine task assignments. In recognizing this function of the knowledge management system, group members may strategically monitor what information they and others contribute in order to position themselves as experts in particular domains. The implications of technologies that make individual knowledge visible to group members are discussed.
Conceptualizing and Assessing Social Support in the Context of the Family

Social support and family researchers have made enormous strides in documenting the many links between the supportive elements within family relationships, on one hand, and important personal outcomes, such as psychological adjustment, on the other. These efforts have contributed to a better understanding of the multidimensional nature of the social support construct and to recognition that the impact that supportive relationships have on personal outcomes is complex and requires attention to a broad range of pertinent variables. Despite these impressive developments, several topics—topics that lie at the heart of research on social support and the family—still need to be addressed. This chapter examines some of these topics and seeks to offer a new perspective from which to examine them.
Understanding Ambulatory and Wearable Data for Health and Wellness

In our research, we aim (1) to recognize human internal states and behaviors (stress level, mood and sleep behaviors etc), (2) to reveal which features in which data can work as predictors and (3) to use them for intervention. We collect multi-modal (physiological, behavioral, environmental, and social) ambulatory data using wearable sensors and mobile phones, combining with standardized questionnaires and data measured in the laboratory. In this paper, we introduce our approach and some of our projects.
Preventive Nutrition: From Public to Personal Recommendations and Approaches to Behavior Change

National dietary guidelines for general audiences are focused on holistic views of nutrition with an emphasis on whole foods and dietary patterns in the context of long-term environmental sustainability, but often prove more aspirational than actionable. Personally tailored nutrition guidance is emerging via assessment of genetic and biochemical profiles directed to individualized dietary recommendations for health promotion and disease prevention. Effective behavioral strategies at the individual level for promoting dietary behavior change can include use of motivational interviewing or technological applications. It is important to consider the influence of culture and community. Government policies can also shape dietary behaviors at local, national, and global levels. The first International Conference on Nutrition in 1992 and subsequent World Food Summits and related action plans organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization have repeatedly reaffirmed their commitment of the right of everyone to have access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food. In 2014, the Second International Conference on Nutrition acknowledged that malnutrition—including undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, overweight, and obesity—is widespread and not only affects health and well-being of people but also restricts the attainment of human potential and poses a high burden of adverse social and economic consequences to individuals, families, communities, and nations (http://www.fao.org/3/a-ml542e.pdf). The root causes of malnutrition are complex and multidimensional and involve cultural, economic, environmental, political, and social factors. Nonetheless, we clearly face a conundrum in the expansive body of scientific knowledge accumulated during the last 40 years about how individual nutrients and dietary patterns affect human metabolism and health and the concurrent growing prevalence around the world of diet-related, noncommunicable chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and osteoporosis (JAMA 310(6):591–608, 2013; Lancet 380:2163–96, 2012). Implementing practices and policies that promote health at both public and personal levels requires new ways of utilizing the reductionist and holistic paradigms of preventive nutrition and approaches that help support behavioral changes within communities and in individuals.