cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Alternative Combinations of Predictor Variables in Behavioral Research

Summary.-Examination of alternative methods of combination of predictor variables was carried out to evaluate the impact of various combinatorial methods in behavioral research. The dependent variable was consumers' information seeking about purchases. The four predictor variables were: perceived conspicuousness of the product, perceived risk in a decision to purchase, need for social approval, and compliance. Data were collected from 89 housewives via personal interviews in Ss' homes. Three combinations of predictor variables were examined using mslriple correlation analysis. The three models differed substantially in terms of percentage of explained variation. Numerous recently published studies have investigated the role of accitudes, values, and personality in consumers' decisions abouc purchases. These studies have devoted limited attention to an implicit assumption about modeling that may be of considerable importance. Relatively neglected is the manner in which predictor variables are combined in the various statistical models used. The purpose of this study was co examine the effect of alternative methods of combining predictor variables. METHOD The study was structured around the extent to which consumers sought information about purchases of seven products: instant coffee, ground coffee, laundry presoaker, dust and wax furniture spray, laundry detergent, spray foam rug cleaner, and cook-in-bag frozen vegetables. Four recognized determinants of the extent to which consumers seek information abouc purchases were used as predictor variables: perceived conspicuousness OF the product, perceived risk in a decision to purchase, need for social approval, and tendency co be compliant in interpersonal interactions. A representative sample of 89 housewives was used, and test instruments administered during personal interviews in Ss' homes. Perceived conspicuousness of the product was evaluated on a 5-point Likerctype scale which measured Ss perception of the likelihood that her friends had noticed her brand choice in a particular category of product, e.g., instant coffee. Scale values ranged from 5 (definitely noticed) to 1 (definitely not noticed). To increase the accuracy of this measure of conspicuousness each S was asked to make her evaluacions of conspicuousness in terms of a specific set of two to four friends which she herself selected. Ss were asked to select their set of friends on the bases of likelihood of shopping with them or discussing purchasing behavior
Nonmyeloablative regimen preserves "niches" allowing for peripheral expansion of donor T-cells.

Abstract T-cell recovery following myeloablative preparatory regimens and cord blood transplantation in adult patients gen erally occurs between 1 and 3 years following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. T-cell reconstitution may involve thymic education of donor-derived precursors or peripheral expansion of mature T-cells transferred in the graft. We measured quantitative and qualitative immunologic reconstitution, T-cell receptor spectratyping, and T-cell receptor excision circle (TREC) levels in adult recipients of umbilical cord blood transplants following a novel nonmyeloablative regimen. These results were compared to previously published results of similar patients receiving a myeloablative regimen and cord blood stem cells. With small numbers of patients treated so far, T-cells (CD3+) reached normal levels in adults 6 to 12 months following nonmyeloablative transplantation compared with 24 months in adults receiving a myeloablative regimen. At 12 months after transplantation, the numbers of phenotypically naive (CD45RA) T-cells were higher in those receiving the nonmyeloablative regimen. The T-cell repertoire in cord blood recipients treated with a nonmyeloablative regimen was markedly more diverse and robust compared with the repertoire in those receiving the myeloablative regimen at similar time points. TRECs (which are generated within the thymus and identify new thymic emigrants and those that have not divided) were detected 12 months after transplantation in the nonmyeloablative recipients, whereas TRECs were not detected in adults until 18 to 24 months in those receiving myeloablative regimens. Thus, in adults receiving a nonmyeloablative preparatory regimen, the quantitative and qualitative recovery of T-cells occurs through rapid peripheral expansion. The ability of patients receiving a nonmyeloablative regimen to recover within a few months suggests that the peripheral niches in which T-cells can proliferate are preserved in these patients compared to those receiving ablative regimens. Moreover, the presence of TREC-positive cells within 1 year suggests that thymic recovery is likewise accelerated in non myeloablative compared to myeloablative regimens. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2002;8(5):249-56.
Government support of genetic services.

Abstract The 1976 enactment of the National Sickle Cell Anemia, Cooley's Anemia, Tay‐Sachs, and Genetic Disease Act may mark the emergence of a national policy on mass genetic screening. The law includes provisions intended to protect persons who are tested for genetic traits in screening programs operated with government funds. Two key features are (1) guaranteed access to competent genetic counseling and (2) strict confidentiality of test results. Because genetic screening will be conducted through state public health departments, I surveyed the states to determine how they were currently providing access to genetic counseling and protection of genetic data. The responses indicated that (1) there is an extreme heterogeneity of counseling services, and (2) that most states have not developed programs to safeguard genetic data.
Experimental studies on mice subcutaneously challenged with heat-killed cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SummaryMice were found to be generally refractory to sc challenge with heat-killed cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and did not die unless unusually high concentrations were employed. Approximately 38.6% of the animals receiving a single, sublethal dose of 1 × 1010 dead cells developed black, crusty, necrotic skin lesions within 3 to 5 days. No major gross and histopathological changes were detected in internal organs. If the animals were sc administered sublethal doses of either live or dead cells of P aeruginosa 16 days prior to sc challenge, then the incidence of black lesions rose to 78.6 and 50% of the animals, respectively. Of several antineoplastic agents tested, only methotrexate significantly affected the 72-hr LD50 resulting in a drop to 1.8 × 109 from 3.4 × 1010 cells.However, both methotrexate and actinomy-cin D decreased the incidence of the black lesions.This investigation was supported by the Office of Naval Research Grant No. N-00014-69-0235, the National Science Foundation graduate trainee...
Driving cessation and AD: Issues congronting patients and family

This study surveyed older drivers with Alzheimer's disease (AD), collaterals familiar with the patient's driving, and a control group for the purpose of obtaining information about driving habits and plans for driving cessation. Drivers with dementia are at a greater risk for getting lost and having crashes than other older drivers. Family members are concerned about crashes to the extent that they are trying to prevent the AD driver from driving. Despite their concerns, many AD drivers and their families have not made plans for driving cessation. These results can assist health care professionals in developing approaches to assist AD drivers and their families as they make the transition to non-driving status.
Reconsidering Moral Issues in Politics

Political scientists commonly distinguish issues that are moral from ones that are not. The distinction is taken to be important for understanding persuadability, the stability of opinions, and issue salience, among other phenomena, but there are inconsistencies in how scholars have conceived it. Drawing insights from psychology, I suggest that it is fruitful to think about moral conviction as a dimension of attitude strength. Using three data sources, I examine how much this perspective contributes to our understanding of politics. I find evidence that moral conviction shapes political opinions and action in surprising ways: it varies across issues, but also within them, including issues usually considered not to be moral. It contributes to participatory zeal, but moral conviction may also be related to political extremism and hostility. The findings point to much promise in a microlevel understanding of the role of morality in politics.
The Allosteric Role of the Ca2+ Switch in Adhesion and Elasticity of C-Cadherin

Modular proteins such as titin, fibronectin, and cadherin are ubiquitous components of living cells. Often involved in signaling and mechanical processes, their architecture is characterized by domains containing a variable number of heterogeneous “repeats” arranged in series, with either flexible or rigid linker regions that determine their elasticity. Cadherin repeats arranged in series are unique in that linker regions also feature calcium-binding motifs. While it is well known that the extracellular repeats of cadherin proteins mediate cell-cell adhesion in a calcium-dependent manner, the molecular mechanisms behind the influence of calcium in adhesion dynamics and cadherin's mechanical response are not well understood. Here we show, using molecular dynamics simulations, how calcium ions control the structural integrity of cadherin's linker regions, thereby affecting cadherin's equilibrium dynamics, the availability of key residues involved in cell-cell adhesion, and cadherin's mechanical response. The all-atom, multi-nanosecond molecular dynamics simulations involved the entire C-cadherin extracellular domain solvated in water (a 345,000 atom system). Equilibrium simulations show that the extracellular domain maintains its crystal conformation (elongated and slightly curved) when calcium ions are present. In the absence of calcium ions, however, it assumes a disordered conformation. The conserved residue Trp2, which is thought to insert itself into a hydrophobic pocket of another cadherin molecule (thereby providing the basis for cell-cell adhesion), switches conformation from exposed to intermittently buried upon removal of calcium ions. Furthermore, the overall mechanical response of C-cadherin's extracellular domain is characterized at low force by changes in shape (tertiary structure elasticity), and at high force by unraveling of secondary structure elements (secondary structure elasticity). This mechanical response is modulated by calcium ions at both low and high force, switching from a stiff, rod-like to a soft, spring-like behavior upon removal of ions. The simulations provide an unprecedented molecular view of calcium-mediated allostery in cadherins, also illustrating the general principles of linker-mediated elasticity of modular proteins relevant not only for cell-cell adhesion and sound transduction, but also muscle elasticity.
Burmese music and the world market

Burmese music is relatively little known outside of Burma/ Myanmar, owing to the reclusive policies of the ruling dictatorship over the last several decades. Despite this isolation, several recent recordings have circulated through the world music market as it continually searches for new and exotic sounds. This article will explore some disparities and tensions between Burmese music as enjoyed and consumed in Burma and Burmese music as it increasingly appears in various 'world music' and New Age markets in North America and Europe. I will examine a number of musical tracks that have their origins in Burma yet have been prepared (mixed, mastered and marketed) in distinct ways for a number of different audiences, Burmese and other. The fate of these different recordings in the hands of Burmese and Western producers illustrates the ironic turns that music can take as it moves across aesthetic and
Launching accountable care organizations--the proposed rule for the Medicare Shared Savings Program.

A common criticism of U.S. health care is the fragmented nature of its payment and delivery systems. Because in many settings no single group of participants — physicians, hospitals, public or private payers, or employers — takes full responsibility for guiding the health of a patient or community, care is distributed across many sites, and integration among them may be deficient. Fragmentation leads to waste and duplication — and unnecessarily high costs. Section 3022 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) establishes the Medicare Shared Savings Program for accountable care organizations (ACOs) as a potential solution.1 The creation of ACOs is . . .
Constructing Hot Spots Policing: Unexamined Consequences for Disadvantaged Populations and for Police Legitimacy:

Police practitioners and academics alike have heralded hot spots policing as evidence-based practice. It has encountered few hurdles in its path to widespread implementation in the United States. Examining the social construction of its diffusion, including the empirical, theoretical, social-political, technological, and media contexts that converged to promote its diffusion, reveals a partial, positively skewed image perpetuated among the public, scholars, and policymakers. Through a different lens, hot spots policing might have led to concerns about legitimacy, discussion of bias, and lack of public support. Instead, the infectious popularity of this reform may thus far have buffered it from critical consideration of the potentially disproportionate impact of hot spots policing on disadvantaged community members and its consequences for police legitimacy--evidence that should be important to evidence-based practice. This article promotes a research agenda that extends beyond short term crime-reduction to investigate these important unstudied consequences.
Work in Times of Slavery, Colonialism, and Civil War: Labor Relations in Angola from 1800 to 2000

In Angola, a trend towards labor commodification, set in motion under the impact of the nineteenth-century produce trade and colonial rule, has been reversed in the decades since independence. Angolans have always worked mainly in the reciprocal sphere, but with the growing commercialization of the economy after the abolition of the slave trade, self-employment has also become a constant in Angolan labor history. By 2000, the rural population was thrown back to subsistence farming, while the larger part of the urban population has tried to survive by self-employment in the informal economy. Wage labor, widespread under colonialism, has become less common.
Working with the noncompliant patient.

For the Fall 2003 issue of The Permanente Journal,1 I wrote an article entitled “Understanding Noncompliant Behavior: Definitions and Causes” (xnet.kp.org/per-manentejournal/fall03/behavior.html). It discussed the various underlying causes of more seriously noncompliant behavior (NCB) with the goal of understanding that noncompliance is not a unitary entity but has a differential diagnosis. Use of this differential diagnosis, it was stated, could lead to more effectively working with the noncompliant patient. The goal of this article is to offer the practicing clinician tools for working with the noncompliant patient.
Use of cell affinity chromatography for separation of lymphocyte subpopulations

We describe the use of affinity chromatography for separation of cell populations that do not differ significantly with respect to gross physical properties such as size, density, or charge. Cell affinity chromatography exploits differences in cell surface macromolecules by passage of mixtures of cell populations through a column containing beads to which are attached chemical ligands with specific binding affinity for particular cell surface receptors. In this article we focus on the application of this concept to separation of mature T lymphocytes from peripheral blood. This serves as a model for the separation of these cells from bone marrow in order to prevent graft-vs.-host disease in bone marrow transplantation. However, the concept of cell affinity chromatography should find more general widespread utility in a variety of biotechnological applications. Thus, we introduce a simple theoretical framework which is necessary in order to understand the results that might be expected in any given situation. Finally, we use this theory to provide a tentative explanation for experimental observation of the effects of temperature and flowrate on the degree of separation achieved for our current pplication.
Stable Fitted Reinforcement Learning

We describe the reinforcement learning problem, motivate algorithms which seek an approximation to the Q function, and present new convergence results for two such algorithms.
An overview of feed-forward design techniques for high-gain wideband operational transconductance amplifiers

Abstract In this paper, feed-forward techniques are revised and used for the design of high-frequency operational transconductance amplifiers (OTA). For the same power consumption and similar transistor dimensions, the two- and three-path folded-cascode OTA's present both smaller settling error and faster response as compared to the typical folded-cascode topology. Also, a no-capacitor feed-forward (NCFF) compensation which uses a high-frequency pole–zero doublet to obtain high gain, high GBW and a good phase margin is discussed. The settling-time of the NCFF topology can be faster than that of OTA's with Miller compensation, even if the latter topology uses larger transconductance values. Experimental results for the multi-trajectory OTA's fabricated in the AMI 0.5 μm CMOS process demonstrate the feasibility of the feed-forward schemes.
Chromium(III) Aquo Complexes with a Quinquedentate, Quadridentate, Tridentate, Bidentate, or Unidentate Tetraethylenepentaamine Ligand

Abstract The new complexes Cr(tetren)OH2 3+, Cr(tetrenH) (OH2)2 4+, Cr(tetrenH2) (OH2)3 5+, Cr(tetrenH3) (OH2)4 6+, and Cr(tetrenH4) (OH2)5 7+, four of which have a protonated “partially unwrapped” tetraethylenepentaamine ligand, have been synthesized, isolated in aqueous solution, and characterized. Their d-d absorption maxima and minima are reported
Learning directed acyclic graphical structures with genetical genomics data

MOTIVATION Large amount of research efforts have been focused on estimating gene networks based on gene expression data to understand the functional basis of a living organism. Such networks are often obtained by considering pairwise correlations between genes, thus may not reflect the true connectivity between genes. By treating gene expressions as quantitative traits while considering genetic markers, genetical genomics analysis has shown its power in enhancing the understanding of gene regulations. Previous works have shown the improved performance on estimating the undirected network graphical structure by incorporating genetic markers as covariates. Knowing that gene expressions are often due to directed regulations, it is more meaningful to estimate the directed graphical network. RESULTS In this article, we introduce a covariate-adjusted Gaussian graphical model to estimate the Markov equivalence class of the directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) in a genetical genomics analysis framework. We develop a two-stage estimation procedure to first estimate the regression coefficient matrix by [Formula: see text] penalization. The estimated coefficient matrix is then used to estimate the mean values in our multi-response Gaussian model to estimate the regulatory networks of gene expressions using PC-algorithm. The estimation consistency for high dimensional sparse DAGs is established. Simulations are conducted to demonstrate our theoretical results. The method is applied to a human Alzheimer's disease dataset in which differential DAGs are identified between cases and controls. R code for implementing the method can be downloaded at http://www.stt.msu.edu/∼cui. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION R code for implementing the method is freely available at http://www.stt.msu.edu/∼cui/software.html.
Toward a Genetic Dissection of Cortical Circuits in the Mouse

The mammalian neocortex gives rise to a wide range of mental activities and consists of a constellation of interconnected areas that are built from a set of basic circuit templates. Major obstacles to understanding cortical architecture include the diversity of cell types, their highly recurrent local and global connectivity, dynamic circuit operations, and a convoluted developmental assembly process rooted in the genome. With our increasing knowledge of gene expression and developmental genetic principles, it is now feasible to launch a program of genetic dissection of cortical circuits through systematic targeting of cell types and fate mapping of neural progenitors. Strategic design of even a modest number of mouse driver lines will facilitate efforts to compile a cell type parts list, build a Cortical Cell Atlas, establish experimental access to modern tools, integrate studies across levels, and provide coordinates for tracing developmental trajectory from circuit assembly to functional operation.
Virulence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Depends on Lipoamide Dehydrogenase, a Member of Three Multienzyme Complexes

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) adapts to persist in a nutritionally limited macrophage compartment. Lipoamide dehydrogenase (Lpd), the third enzyme (E3) in Mtb's pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH), also serves as E1 of peroxynitrite reductase/peroxidase (PNR/P), which helps Mtb resist host-reactive nitrogen intermediates. In contrast to Mtb lacking dihydrolipoamide acyltransferase (DlaT), the E2 of PDH and PNR/P, Lpd-deficient Mtb is severely attenuated in wild-type and immunodeficient mice. This suggests that Lpd has a function that DlaT does not share. When DlaT is absent, Mtb upregulates an Lpd-dependent branched-chain keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKADH) encoded by pdhA, pdhB, pdhC, and lpdC. Without Lpd, Mtb cannot metabolize branched-chain amino acids and potentially toxic branched-chain intermediates accumulate. Mtb deficient in both DlaT and PdhC phenocopies Lpd-deficient Mtb. Thus, Mtb critically requires BCKADH along with PDH and PNR/P for pathogenesis. These findings position Lpd as a potential target for anti-infectives against Mtb.
Genital warts and cervical cancer: II. Is human papillomavirus infection the trigger to cervical carcinogenesis?

Evidence of a biologically significant association between subclinical papillomavirus infection (SPI) and cervical neoplasia raises the question of whether this is a causal relationship. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of metaplastic epithelium in the cervical transformation zone is relatively common, producing latent infection in susceptible persons. The epidemiological characteristics of SPI and cervical cancer are essentially identical and there is a strong clinico-pathological association between condylomas and anogenital carcinoma. Tissue culture cells have been transformed from a normal to a neoplastic phenotype by animal papillomaviruses, and there is preliminary data reporting upon the successful identification of HPV genomic sequences in tumor cells. SPI commonly coexists with foci of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Areas of apparent transition are seen, and these two lesions are linked by a discernible spectrum of morphologic change. Such circumstantial evidence gives biological plausibility to the suggestion that HPV may be a cervical carcinogen. It is postulated that cervical neoplasia arises by progression from benign viral hyperplasia, through varying stages of koilocytotic atypia with associated dysplasia, to unremarkable carcinoma in situ. Invasion is presumed to reflect the emergence of an aggressive heteroploid clone, an age-related decline in host immune surveillance or an interaction of both factors.
Widows Waiting to Wed? (Re)Marriage and Economic Incentives in Social Security Widow Benefits

In this paper we focus on an age restriction for remarriage in the Social Security system to determine if individuals respond to economic incentives for marriage. Aged widow(er) benefits are paid by the Federal government to persons whose deceased spouses worked in Social Security covered employment. A widow(er) is eligible to receive benefits if she or he is at least age 60. If a widow(er) remarries before age 60, he or she forfeits the benefit and, therefore, faces a marriage penalty. Under current law, there is no penalty if the remarriage occurs at 60 years of age or later We investigate whether this rule affects the marriage behavior of widows. Specifically, we examine the rates of remarriage of women around age 60 under current as well as past Social Security eligibility rules using data from the Vital Statistics. Our results provide compelling evidence that this group of women respond to economic incentives when considering the decision to remarry. First, the 1979 law change that eliminated the marriage penalty for those at least age 60 resulted in a large increase in the marriage rate for widows at
Research of H &#8734; Control and Its Application on Suppression Torsional Vibration of Rolling Mill System

The two-mass system which has a motor and a load connected with a flexible shaft is study. The control of torsional vibration is considered how to design the robust controller of uncertain parameter system with external disturbance. The design is translated into Hinfin standard control problem by constructing a suitable augmented controlled object. Then a state feedback controller which suit the specifically performance is obtained by using Riccati equation. The simulation results show that the proposed design improves dynamic performance and suppresses torsional vibration of rolling mill system
A Practical Approach to Preventing Renal Complications in the Catheterization Laboratory

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury is a common complication in patients undergoing invasive procedures and is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. There is no effective approach to the management of this complication, and prevention remains of paramount importance. The 3 pillars of prevention are identification of high-risk patients, appropriate hydration before and after contrast exposure, eGFR-based contrast dosing and use of ultra-low contrast volume in high-risk patients. Most evidence supporting these practices is derived from patients undergoing coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention but these basic principles can be applied to most patients undergoing contrast-based procedures in the catheterization laboratory.
Non-Equilibrium Effects in DC and RF Glow Discharges

Glow discharges are used in a variety of applications, including electronic materials processing, lasers, discharge switches and lighting sources. In the microelectronics industry, considerable interest has developed within the last decade in plasma film etching and deposition. A major advantage of glow discharges in microelectronics material processing is that the gas can remain at or near room temperature while considerable physical and chemical energy is supplied to the surface. Indeed, the enormous range of conditions that can be achieved in low pressure plasmas by varying operating conditions and reactor design makes a plasma environment an extraordinarily versatile surface processing tool. The major processes occurring in the plasma that result in surface modification are (1) electron-impact dissociation of molecules to create chemically active molecular fragments; and (2) ion bombardment of surfaces bounding the plasma. The first effect is chemical: the original parent species is often not reactive and the fragment resulting from electron-impact dissociation is often very reactive at the surface. The second effect is primarily physical in that ions with tens to hundreds of electron volts of energy can dramatically influence virtually all surface processes from bond creation and breaking to desorption, lattice disruption, etc. The structure of the plasma determines the nature of these surface effects: electron density and energy distribution change dissociation rates and plasma potentials, ionization rate profiles and other parameters influence ion energies incident at surfaces.
Reply to “Comments on ‘Changes to the North Atlantic Subtropical High and Its Role in the Intensification of Summer Rainfall Variability in the Southeastern United States’”

AbstractRecently Diem questioned the western ridge movement of the North Atlantic subtropical high (NASH) reported in a 2011 paper of Li et al. This reply shows more analysis that further strengthens the conclusions originally put forth by Li et al. Diem’s analysis of the trend in the western ridge of the NASH was based on the data over a 30-yr period (1978–2007), whereas the main conclusions in Li et al. were drawn according to the data over a 60-yr period (1948–2007). Over the last 60 years, the NASH has shown a significant trend of westward movement, the meridional movement of the western ridge of the NASH has enhanced in the recent three decades, and the potential impact of global warming cannot be ruled out in an attempt to explain these changes of the NASH.
Enhanced Hypoprothrombinemia with Warfarin Due to Azithromycin

OBJECTIVE:To report a case of probable azithromycin—warfarin drug interaction with enhanced hypoprothrombinemic effect of warfarin.CASE SUMMARY:An 83-year-old African American man stabilized on warfarin therapy (10 mg on Wednesdays, 7.5 mg on other days) developed a prolonged prothrombin time one day after starting azithromycin 500 mg. The elevated prothrombin time normalized 3 days after azithromycin was discontinued. After the initial increase in the international normalized ratio, the absence of any significant confounding factors affecting the anticoagulant effect of warfarin in our patient and the numerous reports of such interactions indicate that an interaction between azithromycin and warfarin may have been responsible for the elevated prothrombin time seen in this patient. An objective causality assessment revealed that the adverse event was probably related to the combination of these drugs.DISCUSSION:Azithromycin, unlike erythromycin and clarithromycin, is not known to inhibit the cytochrome P4...
Neoliberalism and Empire: How Are They Related?:

It is argued that when the world’s economic and military hegemon pursues a foreign economic policy of liberalism, there are tendencies for that nation to acquire an empire. These arguments are illustrated with examples from the British Empire of the nineteenth century. The article concludes with some speculations on the current situation, with the United States now in the role of the world’s hegemon.
Effects of Garlic on Blood Pressure in Patients With and Without Systolic Hypertension: A Meta-Analysis

Background:Garlic has been suggested to lower blood pressure; however, studios evaluating this parameter have provided conflicting results.Objective:To examine the effect of garlic on blood pressure in patients with and without elevated systolic blood pressure (SPB) through meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials.Methods:A systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials in humans evaluating garlic's effect on blood pressure. All databases were searched from their inception through June 26, 2008, using the key words garlic, Allium sativum, and allicin. A manual search of published literature was used to identify additional relevant studies. To be included in the analysis, studies must have been written in English or German and reported endpoints of SBP or diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Studies whose population had a mean baseline SBP greater than 140 mm Hg were evaluated separately from those whose po...
The Empire and ‘Human Interest’: Popular Empire Films, the Colonial Villain, and the British Documentary Movement 1926–39

This article examines representations of colonial subjects within two forms of ‘empire films’ of the 1930s: popular ‘entertainment’ empire films widely consumed by audiences in Britain and the colonies, and documentary films about empire produced by the Empire Marketing Board (EMB) and the General Post Office (GPO) film units. These two types of film at first glance seem markedly different, with the one featuring the sensational colonial villain, and the other emphasising a docile and peaceful workforce in the colonies. Yet if we consider these two types of film within a large media landscape intent on courting the ‘human interest’ of audiences between the wars, the particularly racialised boundaries of this term comes into focus. This article examines the seemingly divergent portrayals of colonial subjects across these films and in conjunction with responses of audiences in both England and the colonies, and early discussions at the EMB about the appeal of empire narratives. The appeal and endurance of the figure of the colonial villain in entertainment films and the perspective of documentary producer John Grierson on film, human interest, and empire asks us to consider the state’s role in refashioning empire in this period. This article asks whether the state was truly invested in refashioning a modern empire in the interwar period, as some historians have argued, or if it was content to affirm the limited portrayal of colonial subjects on screen.
Elevated CO2 affects plant responses to variation in boron availability

Aim Effects of elevated CO2 on N relations are well studied, but effects on other nutrients, especially micronutrients, are not. We investigated effects of elevated CO2 on response to variation in boron (B) availability in three unrelated species: seed geranium (Pelargonium x hortorum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), and water fern (Azolla caroliniana).
Iron in the Sargasso Sea: Implications for the processes controlling dissolved Fe distribution in the ocean

[1] In the surface water of the winter Sargasso Sea, ‘‘dissolved’’ Fe concentrations (defined as iron that passes through a filter with an 0.4 micrometer diameter pore size) decrease with increasing latitude from 0.8 nM at 26� N to 0.2 nM at 31� N. It does not appear that this pattern can be explained solely by spatial variations of eolian Fe deposition. Vertical mixing, phytoplankton growth and particle scavenging all appear to play important roles in controlling dissolved Fe distributions in the surface water. Concentrations of dissolved Fe in the subsurface waters increase with increasing depth from � 0.2 nM at � 200 m to � 0.6 nM at depths below 1000 m, reflecting an imbalance between Fe removal by particle scavenging and Fe regeneration from microbial decomposition of organic matter sinking from the euphotic zone. Simple model calculations suggest that scavenging loss of Fe and ventilation of low preformed Fe high P water from source region may create deep ocean Fe:P concentration ratios (5 � 10 � 4 for the Atlantic and 1.2 � 10 � 4 for the Pacific) that are much lower than the ratios of Fe to P regenerated from the organic matter sinking from the euphotic zone (24–74 � 10 � 4 for the Atlantic and 11–32 � 10 � 4 for the Pacific). We hypothesize that this low Fe:P ratio may be the driving force for Fe limitation of algal growth observed in high nutrient low chlorophyll oceans and that regional changes of Fe:C ratios in organic matter sinking from the euphotic zone may play an important role in regulating dissolved Fe concentrations in the deep waters of the world ocean. INDEX TERMS: 1030 Geochemistry: Geochemical cycles (0330); 1050 Geochemistry: Marine geochemistry (4835, 4850); 1065 Geochemistry: Trace elements (3670); 3670 Mineralogy and Petrology: Minor and trace element composition; KEYWORDS: Fe deposition, Sargasso Sea, mineralogy, world ocean
Field Theory as it Pertains to Sep Analysis

The near-field potential (NFP) and far-field potential (FFP) distinguish two different manifestations of the volume conducted field (Jewett and Williston, 1971). The NFP represents the propagating action potential as detected when the impulse passes under the pick-up electrodes, whereas the FFP relates to a stationary potential generated by the signal away from the recording site. A bipolar derivation, used in conventional nerve conduction studies, registers primarily, though not exclusively, NFP from the axonal volley along the course of the nerve. In contrast, a referential montage preferentially detects FFP, although it may also register NFP, if the impulse passes near the electrodes. The far-field recording has gained popularity in the study of evoked potentials for detection of a voltage source generated at a distance (Allison, Wood, McCarthy et al., 1982; Celesia, 1985; Chiappa, Choi and Young, 1980; Cracco, 1972; Cracco and Cracco, 1976; Desmedt and Cheron, 1981, 1983; Desmedt, Huy and Carmeliet, 1983; Eisen, 1982; Emerson and Pedley, 1984; Emerson, Seyal and Pedley 1984; Luders, Dinner, Lesser et al., 1983; Luders, Lesser, Hahn et al., 1983; MacCabee, Pinkhasov and Cracco, 1983).
Groundwater Development and Management of Coastal Aquifers (including Island Aquifers) through Monitoring and Modeling Approaches

More than half the world’s population now lives within 80 kilometres of a shoreline and human population in these regions is growing exponentially, such that it is expected to double or triple in the next two decades in North America alone. Human activities on coastal and island watersheds provide the major sources of nutrients and pollutants entering shallow coastal ecosystems. Contamination loadings from watersheds are the most widespread factor that alters structure and function of receiving aquatic ecosystems. Surface water in the coastal and island watersheds interacts with adjacent subsurface water. Subsurface water discharges are recognized as potentially significant contaminant pathway from the land to the coast by human activities. This interaction affects the water quality and quantity in both surface and subsurface waters. The diversity, in combination with the range of disciplines and of time and space scales involved; complicate the use of data for purposes other than those envisioned by the original investigators. As land and water resource development increases in the coastal watersheds, it is becoming readily apparent that subsurface and surface waters interaction must be considered in establishing water management policies. On a more regional scale, human activity has already demonstrated heavy impacts on coastal zones and further demands are increasingly threatening the integrity and health of biologically rich aquatic ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, sea grass beds, lagoons, wetlands, bays and near shore waters.
Stem cells: HSCT for Crohn's disease: work in progress or a bridge too far?

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for refractory Crohn's disease has the potential to halt therapy-resistant inflammation. Hawkey et al. argue that HSCT does not offer sustained benefit based upon their recent study; however, their study was designed using suboptimal end points and patients were not offered post-transplantation Crohn's disease medication.
A decomposition method for an interior inverse scattering problem

We consider an interior inverse scattering problem of reconstructing the shape of a cavity. The measurements are the scattered fields on a curve inside the cavity due to one point source. We employ the decomposition method to reconstruct the cavity and present some convergence results. Numerical examples are provided to show the viability of the method.
Loss of bone marrow adrenergic beta 1 and 2 receptors modifies transcriptional networks, reduces circulating inflammatory factors, and regulates blood pressure

Hypertension (HTN) is a prevalent condition with complex etiology and pathophysiology. Evidence exists of significant communication between the nervous system and the immune system (IS), and there ...
Animal models for hemorrhage and resuscitation research.

Background: This report summarizes recent workshop discussions on animal models for hemorrhage and resuscitation research, and it is supplemented with relevant current literature. The emphasis is on models for casualty care on the battlefield. Results: Current animal models of hemorrhage and resuscitation vary substantially from one laboratory to another, and are not based on clinical experience. Hemorrhage and resuscitation protocols are arbitrarily determined, and there is no consensus on predictive endpoints. The use of anesthetics in most animal models obscures crucial hemodynamic responses. Environmental variables that influence outcomes by modulating the stress state of the animal are not controlled. A standardized predictive preclinical animal model that addresses these issues is needed. Conclusions: Recently conscious animal models have been developed that can minimize anesthesia artifacts, and prognostic endpoints have been defined in the clinic. The time may be right to define a predictive animal model for hemorrhage and resuscitation research that will allow new trauma therapies to advance.
Structure and Chemistry of Interfaces in Silicon Carbide-Containing Materials

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and other techniques were employed to investigate the character of high and low angle boundaries and interfaces in several α-SiC-containing multiphase materials. In reaction-bonded SiC, the reaction of Si vapor with excess free C contained in an α-SiC matrix caused epitaxial growth of additional α-SiC and resultant sub-grain boundary formation. Climb-controlled deformation above 1773K caused the formation of additional, unique subboundaries in this material. In sintered α-SiC containing B and C, the occasionally predicted and reported amorphous boundary phase was not discerned in high resolution TEM or Auger analyses. The addition of MgO to an β-SiC whisker-containing Si3N4 composite resulted both in the formation of an amorphous phase and in the epitaxial crystallization of an MgO-containing silicate phase. Finally, ruby or eximer laser annealing of Ni-coated SiC caused the melting of the Ni and the diffusion of SiC into this molten phase. By comparison, the ion mixing of the Ni via the implantation of Si+ through this metal layer resulted in the sequential formation of numerous layers of varying chemistry. The following sections describe the several forms of these interphase regions and their effect on the structural properties of the various materials.
Incidence and Predictors of HIV Infection Among Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending Public Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinics, New York City, 2007-2012.

We examined five annual cohorts (2007-2011) of men who have sex with men (MSM) attending New York City STD clinics who had negative HIV-1 nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on the day of clinic visit. Annual HIV incidence was calculated using HIV diagnoses within 1 year of negative NAAT, determined by matching with the citywide HIV registry. Predictors (demographic; behavioral; bacterial STD from citywide STD registry match) of all new HIV diagnoses through 2012 were calculated from Cox proportional hazards models. Among 10,487 HIV NAAT-negative MSM, 371 had an HIV diagnosis within 1 year. Annual incidence was 2.4/100 person-years, and highest among non-Hispanic black MSM (4.1/100 person-years) and MSM aged <20 years (5.7/100 person-years). Characteristics associated with all 648 new HIV diagnoses included: black race (aHR 2.2; 95 % CI 1.6-3.1), condomless receptive anal sex (aHR 2.1; 95 % CI 1.5-2.8), condomless insertive anal sex (aHR 1.3; 95 % CI 1.1-1.8), and incident STD diagnosis (aHR 1.6; 95 % CI 1.3-1.9). MSM attending STD clinics have substantial HIV incidence and report risk behaviors that are highly associated with HIV acquisition. Increased uptake of effective interventions, e.g., pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis, is needed.
Graph-Theoretic Analysis of Multitime Scale Dynamics in Complex Material Integrated Plants

This paper focuses on the analysis of complex material integrated plants, which may consist of multiple interconnected recycle structures, with material flows spanning multiple orders of magnitude. For such plants, there is a potential of exhibiting multiple time scale material dynamics. An analysis framework is developed to identify the time scales where each process variable evolves and the potential manipulated inputs available in each time scale. A novel graph formalism is proposed to capture the material flow structure of such plants. Then, a graph-theoretic algorithm is developed, which mimics a singular perturbation-based time scale decomposition. The application of the proposed framework is illustrated using two example chemical plants.
Anatomic and dosimetric changes in patients with head and neck cancer treated with an integrated MRI-tri-60Co teletherapy device.

Objective:Prior studies have relied on CT to assess alterations in anatomy among patients undergoing radiation for head and neck cancer. We sought to determine the feasibility of using MRI-based image-guided radiotherapy to quantify these changes and to ascertain their potential dosimetric implications.Methods:6 patients with head and neck cancer were treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) on a novel tri-60Co teletherapy system equipped with a 0.35-T MRI (VR, ViewRay Incorporated, Oakwood Village, OH) to 66–70 Gy in 33 fractions (fx). Pre-treatment MRIs on Fx 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 33 were imported into a contouring interface, where the primary gross tumour volume (GTV) and parotid glands were delineated. The centre of mass (COM) shifts for these structures were assessed relative to Day 1. Dosimetric data were co-registered with the MRIs, and doses to the GTV and parotid glands were assessed.Results:Primary GTVs decreased significantly over the course of IMRT (median % volume loss, 38....
Phenelzine Protects Brain Mitochondrial Function In Vitro and In Vivo following Traumatic Brain Injury by Scavenging the Reactive Carbonyls 4-Hydroxynonenal and Acrolein Leading to Cortical Histological Neuroprotection.

Abstract Lipid peroxidation (LP) is a key contributor to the pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Traditional antioxidant therapies are intended to scavenge the free radicals responsible for either initiation or propagation of LP. A more recently explored approach involves scavenging the terminal LP breakdown products that are highly reactive and neurotoxic carbonyl compounds, 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and acrolein (ACR), to prevent their covalent modification and rendering of cellular proteins nonfunctional leading to loss of ionic homeostasis, mitochondrial failure, and subsequent neuronal death. Phenelzine (PZ) is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (MAO-I) used for treatment of refractory depression that possesses a hydrazine functional group recently discovered by other investigators to scavenge reactive carbonyls. We hypothesized that PZ will protect mitochondrial function and reduce markers of oxidative damage by scavenging LP-derived aldehydes....
Social Relations in Culture and Marketing

Cross cultural differentiation is found to be an important variable in improving the effectiveness of the promotion function of sales in industrial Marketing. Four cultures (EU, US, Japan, and Lati...