cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Violence toward chronic pain care providers: A national survey

INTRODUCTION: This study measured the following: violence rates against chronic pain care providers (CPCPs), character/context/risk factors for violence and CPCPs' mitigation strategies. METHOD: An e-mail survey was sent to members of the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIIP) to collect demographics, rates/type of violence, injury, risk mitigation, and context of violence. Correlation with demographic factors calculated using one-way ANOVA and χ(2) test (Fisher test). RESULTS: Security was called by 64.85% of CPCPs and 51.52% received threats. The threats involved a gun 7.05% of the time. Injury was reported by 2.73% of CPCPs. The most common risk mitigation was discharging patient (85.33%). Others used protective equipment (16.89%) of which a significant percentage carried a gun (54%). Opioid management was the highest context for violence (89.9%; P CONCLUSION: CPCPs were at high risk for violence. Risk factors were older age, male, working part time, and anesthesiology. Risk was highest in the context of opioid management and disability. Discharging patient was the most common risk mitigation. A significant number of physicians carried firearms. Language: en
Baseline neurocognitive scores in athletes with attention deficit-spectrum disorders and/or learning disability

Object. Up to 16% of children in the US between the ages of 3 and 17 years have either attention deficit–spec trum disorder or a learning disability (LD). Sports-related concussions among youth athletes represent a significant public health concern, and neurocognitive testing is a method to evaluate the severity of cognitive impairment and recovery after a sports-related concussion. The goal of this study was to assess baseline neurocognitive differences between athletes with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and/or LD versus those with neither disorder and to establish normative data for these special populations. Methods. Between August 2007 and March 2012, 6636 young athletes underwent baseline neurocognitive testing performed using the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) battery. Of these participants, 90 had self-reported LD only, 262 had self-reported ADHD only, and 55 reported both. Those with ADHD and/or LD were matched with 407 participants with no history of ADHD or LD by age, sex, and number of prior concussions. The mean scores and SDs were calculated for each group to obtain normative values. A pairwise comparison between each diagnostic group was done to assess whether LD and/or ADHD diagnostic status predicted participants’ baseline neurocognitive scores. Results. Participants with ADHD had significantly lower verbal memory, visual memory, and visual motor processing speed scores, along with significantly higher reaction time, impulse control, and symptom scores compared with those without LD or ADHD. Participants with LD had similar results, with significantly lower verbal memory, visual memory, and visual motor processing speed scores, higher reaction time and symptom score, but did not differ in their impulse control score compared with those without LD or ADHD. Participants with both LD and ADHD had a significantly lower visual motor speed score and a significantly higher reaction time and symptom score than those without LD or ADHD, but did not differ with regard to the other composite scores. Conclusions. Athletes with ADHD and/or LD have lower baseline ImPACT neurocognitive scores compared with athletes without ADHD and LD. Preliminary normative neurocognitive data for these special populations are provided. (http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.5.PEDS12524)
Photonic crystal enabled THz sources and one-way waveguides

We present two photonic crystal enabled platforms, exhibiting novel active optical phenomena. First, using a detailed theoretical and numerical analysis, we show how a Purcell-effect inspired nonlinear nanophotonic scheme could enable optimal and compact THz sources via optical difference frequency generation. Second, we show how electromagnetic one-way edge modes analogous to quantum Hall edge states, originally predicted by Raghu and Haldane in gyroelectric photonic crystals, can appear in more general settings. In gyromagnetic YIG photonic crystals operating at microwave frequencies, time-reversal breaking is strong enough that the effect is readily observable. We present our experimental results on this novel phenomenon.
Anatomic variations of pudendal nerve within pelvis and pudendal canal: clinical applications

Objective The objective of the study was to examine the anatomic variation of the pudendal nerve in the pelvis, on the dorsal surface of the sacrospinous ligament, and in the pudendal canal. Study Design Detailed dissections of the pudendal nerve were performed in unembalmed female cadavers. Pelvic measurements included the distance from the origin of the pudendal nerve to the tip of ischial spine and the nerve width at its origin. The length of the pudendal canal was measured. The inferior rectal nerve was identified in the ischioanal fossa and its course documented. Lastly, the relationship of the pudendal nerve to the dorsal surface of the sacrospinous ligament was examined after transecting the lateral surface of the sacrospinous ligament. Descriptive statistics were used for data analyses and reporting. Results Thirteen female cadavers (26 hemipelvises) were examined. A single pudendal nerve trunk was identified in 61.5% of hemipelvises. The median distance from the point of the pudendal nerve formation to the ischial spine was 27.5 mm (range, 14.5–37 mm). The width of the pudendal nerve in the pelvis was 4.5 mm (range, 2.5–6.3 mm). The length of the pudendal canal was 40.5 mm (range, 20.5–54.5 mm). The inferior rectal nerve was noted to enter the pudendal canal in 42.3% of hemipelvises; in these cases, the nerve exited the canal at a distance of 32.5 mm (range, 16–45 mm) from the ischial spine. In the remaining specimens, the inferior rectal nerve passed behind the sacrospinous ligament and entered the ischioanal fossa without entering the pudendal canal. In all specimens, the pudendal nerve was fixed by connective tissue to the dorsal surface of the sacrospinous ligament. Conclusion Great variability exists in pudendal nerve anatomy. Fixation of the pudendal nerve to the dorsal surface of the sacrospinous ligament is a consistent finding; thus, pudendal neuralgia attributed to nerve entrapment may be overestimated. The path of the inferior rectal nerve relative to the pudendal canal may have implications in the development of anorectal symptoms. Improved characterization of the pudendal nerve and its branches can help avoid intraoperative complications and enhance existing treatment modalities for pudendal neuropathy.
Cold-season Production of CO2 in Arctic Soils: Can Laboratory and Field Estimates Be Reconciled through a Simple Modeling Approach?

Abstract Microbial activity in arctic tundra soils has been evaluated through both lab incubations and field flux measurements. To determine whether these different measurement approaches can be directly linked to each other, we developed a simple model of soil microbial CO2 production during the cold season in tussock tundra, moss tundra, and wet meadow tundra in the Alaskan Arctic. The model incorporated laboratory-based estimates of microbial temperature responses at sub-zero temperatures with field measurements of C stocks through the soil profile and daily temperature measurements at the sites. Estimates of total CO2 production overestimated in situ cold season CO2 fluxes for the studied sites by as much as two- to threefold, suggesting that either CO2 produced in situ does not efflux during the cold season or that microbial respiration potentials are constrained by some other factor in situ. Average estimated winter CO2 production was near 120 g C m−2 in moist tundra and 60 g C m−2 in wet meadow tun...
Interruption of all anticoagulation is non-inferior to the use of short-term parenteral bridging in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing invasive procedures.

Commentary on: Douketis JD, Spyropoulos AC, Kaatz S, et al., BRIDGE Investigators. Perioperative bridging anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation. N Engl J Med 2015;373:823–33[OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3]. Oral anticoagulation (OAC) has been demonstrated to reduce stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), however, its use conveys an increased risk of bleeding.1 Therefore, patients receiving OAC who undergo invasive procedures often ‘interrupt’ OAC. Use of short-term ‘bridging’ anticoagulants during such interruptions has been the source of significant debate.2 Although guidelines support a risk-based approach, there is little randomised data to support this.3 Observational data have suggested increased harm and minimal benefit associated with bridging,4 yet until now there have been insufficient prospective … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DN%2BEngl%2BJ%2BMed%26rft.volume%253D373%26rft.spage%253D823%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1056%252FNEJMoa1501035%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F26095867%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.1056/NEJMoa1501035&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=26095867&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febmed%2F20%2F6%2F200.atom
Intrathecal granuloma after implantation of a morphine pump: Case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND Intrathecal morphine pumps are being increasingly used in patients with benign pain who have a longer life expectancy than cancer patients. Newer complications may be encountered. CLINICAL PRESENTATION We report a complication that occurred in a 48-year-old woman who presented with intractable lower back pain 18 months after morphine pump implantation. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbosacral spine revealed an intrathecal mass around the catheter. At surgery, an inflammatory mass was found without any evidence of neoplasia or infection. This is a very unusual complication of intrathecal morphine pumps. (Related animal and human studies are reviewed in this article.) CONCLUSION Long-term use of implantable pumps may carry increased risks that are not observed during the short-term experience of cancer patients. Reimaging is important in evaluating patients who have developed uncontrollable pain and new neurologic findings.
1870: neurology in a changing world.

The pace of progress in the neurosciences and in clinical neurology was accelerating toward the end of the 19th century, yet neurology in 1870 was still in an early developmental stage. The significance of muscle stretch reflexes in the clinical diagnosis of neurologic diseases was not yet realized; the spinal tap and the utility of spinal fluid examination were unknown; and no imaging of any kind other than medical art and photography was available. The year 1870 was one of strife and unrest in most parts of the world, but it was also a year studded with events that promised a brighter future. In fledgling form, Neurology Was There.
OVCAR-3 spheroid-derived cells display distinct metabolic profiles.

Introduction Recently, multicellular spheroids were isolated from a well-established epithelial ovarian cancer cell line, OVCAR-3, and were propagated in vitro. These spheroid-derived cells displayed numerous hallmarks of cancer stem cells, which are chemo- and radioresistant cells thought to be a significant cause of cancer recurrence and resultant mortality. Gene set enrichment analysis of expression data from the OVCAR-3 cells and the spheroid-derived putative cancer stem cells identified several metabolic pathways enriched in differentially expressed genes. Before this, there had been little previous knowledge or investigation of systems-scale metabolic differences between cancer cells and cancer stem cells, and no knowledge of such differences in ovarian cancer stem cells. Methods To determine if there were substantial metabolic changes corresponding with these transcriptional differences, we used two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to measure the metabolite profiles of the two cell lines. Results These two cell lines exhibited significant metabolic differences in both intracellular and extracellular metabolite measurements. Principal components analysis, an unsupervised dimensional reduction technique, showed complete separation between the two cell types based on their metabolite profiles. Pathway analysis of intracellular metabolomics data revealed close overlap with metabolic pathways identified from gene expression data, with four out of six pathways found enriched in gene-level analysis also enriched in metabolite-level analysis. Some of those pathways contained multiple metabolites that were individually statistically significantly different between the two cell lines, with one of the most broadly and consistently different pathways, arginine and proline metabolism, suggesting an interesting hypothesis about cancerous and stem-like metabolic phenotypes in this pair of cell lines. Conclusions Overall, we demonstrate for the first time that metabolism in an ovarian cancer stem cell line is distinct from that of more differentiated isogenic cancer cells, supporting the potential importance of metabolism in the differences between cancer cells and cancer stem cells.
Role of peroxiredoxin-2 in protecting RBCs from hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress

The role of peroxiredoxin-2 (PRDX2) in preventing hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in the red blood cell was investigated by comparing blood from PRDX2 knockout mice with superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) knockout and control mice. Loss of PRDX2 increased basal levels of methemoglobin and heme degradation (a marker for oxidative stress), and reduced red blood cell deformability. In vitro incubation under normoxic conditions, both with and without inhibition of catalase, resulted in a lag phase during which negligible heme degradation occurred followed by a more rapid rate of heme degradation in the absence of PRDX2. The appreciable basal increase in heme degradation for PRDX2 knockout mice, together with the lag during in vitro incubation, implies that PRDX2 neutralizes hydrogen peroxide generated in vivo under the transient hypoxic conditions experienced as the cells pass through the microcirculation.
Surface and catalytic chemistry of organoactinides. Evidence for surface-stabilized alkylidenes

The reaction of M(eta/sup 5/-(CH/sub 3/)/sub 5/C/sub 5/)/sub 2/(CH/sub 3/)/sub 2/ and M(eta/sup 5/-(CH/sub 3/)/sub 5/C/sub 5/)/sub 2/(CD/sub 3/)/sub 2/ compounds, M = Th and U, with partially dehydroxylated and nearly completely dehydroxylated alumina yields methane via protolysis by surface OH, ring H atom abstraction, and elimination within the M(CH/sub 3/)/sub 2/ groups. The latter pathway is proposed on the basis of chemical evidence to result in alumina-stabilized actinide alkylidenes. 12 references, 2 tables.
Positive practice overcorrection combined with additional procedures to teach signed words to an autistic child.

The present study evaluated the effectiveness of using positive practice over-correction in combination with other techniques to teach two manual signs (“milk” and “cookie”) to an autistic boy. This boy had a great deal of difficulty informing any type of discrimination and often became confused in learning the most simple simultaneous discrimination. Intervention primarily consisted of positive practice overcorrection in which the subject was physically guided to form a required hand sign 10 times when he responded incorrectly and was positively reinforced when he signed correctly. The study used a changing criterion within a multiple-baseline design across responses. The results indicated that overcorrection plus positive reinforcement was effective in teaching one sign (milk), however, and added contingent exercise (having to stand up and sit down 10 times for an incorrect response) was required to teach the second sign (cookie). Once the two signs were learned to a criterion level, it was a relatively easy task for the subject to respond correctly with the signs in a matching-to-sample task.
Functional MRI and the study of OCD: from symptom provocation to cognitive-behavioral probes of cortico-striatal systems and the amygdala

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) first appeared in 1991. Since that time there has been a burgeoning use of the technology by psychiatric researchers and neuroscientists. Our group first used fMRI to study obessive compulsive disorder (OCD) with a symptom provocation paradigm and then moved to the use of circuitry-specific cognitive-behavioral probes. The techniques we utilized for the symptom provocation study remain valid today, but have been supplemented by a wide array of new tools. Functional MRI continues to be a rapidly developing technology which could become the gold standard for neuroimaging research in psychiatry. With this in mind, this paper focuses on the past, present, and future applications of fMRI to one model illness, namely OCD. We examine the strengths and limitations of our initial OCD symptom provocation study and then evaluate the use of fMRI with cognitive-behavioral probes of cortico-striatal circuitry and limbic (amygdala) circuitry. We conclude with a brief summary of foreseeable developments which will influence the implementation of fMRI for psychiatric neuroscience in general.
Fluctuations in Models With Primordial Inflation

Abstract The recently proposed general framework for calculating the growth of primordial energy density fluctuations in cosmological models is applied to two models of phenomenological interest in which the cosmological evolution differs crucially from that in new inflationary universe models. Both in a model of primordial supersymmetric inflation and in Linde's proposal of chaotic inflation we verify the conjectured results.
Synthesis of 2-substituted styryl-6-bromo-4-quinazolone 3-(4-benzhydrazides) as possible monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Nine ethyl 2-substituted styryl-6-bromo-4-oxoquinazoline-3-(4-benzoates) were prepared by condensing bromoacetanthranil with ethyl-4-aminobenzoates. These esters were converted to the corresponding hydrazides with hydrazine hydrate in order to study their monoamine oxidase inhibitory and anticonvulsant properties.
An investigation of miscibility in monolayer films of phosphocholine-phosphoglycerol binary mixtures

Abstract A surface thermodynamic analysis was applied to the experimentally measured pressure-area isotherms of mixed monolayer films of phosphocholine (PC) and phosphoglycerol (PG) lipids in order to quantitatively describe the phase miscibility of these physiologically important binary mixtures. We have calculated the excess free energies of mixing (ΔGxsπ) of binary mixtures of acyl chain saturated PC (1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, DPPC) with saturated PG (1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoglycerol, DPPG), as well as saturated PC (DPPC) with acyl chain unsaturated PG (1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoglycerol, DOPG) at various mole fractions and under different subphase Ca2+ ion conditions. ΔGxsπ for the binary mixture of DPPC + DPPG on a NaCl subphase indicates that this binary system approximates an ideal mixture at almost all mole fractions studied. The presence of 5 mM CaCl2 in the subphase results in negative values of ΔGxsπ for the DPPC/DPPG mixture, indicating a miscible, non-ideal monolayer film, where increased intermolecular interactions are stabilized in the presence of Ca2+. The mixture of DPPC and DOPG on NaCl was found to have positive deviations from ideality at all mole fractions studied, indicating a phase separated binary mixture. The magnitude of the phase separation increased as the surface pressure increased. The presence of Ca2+ ions in the subphase was found to have little effect on the mixing of the DPPC and DOPG binary monolayer. This system remained phase separated at all mole fractions in the presence of Ca2+, with ΔGxsπ values increasing as the isotherm surface pressure increased.
Localizing Fulbe Architecture

Fulbe architecture of the Adamawa Region, Cameroon, and the Fouta Djallon region, Guinea, bear many formal similarities. Fulbe in Cameroon often point to architectural form as a marker of ethnic identity. Scholars have also perceived ethnicity, as well as Islam, as central to analyzing Fulbe architecture, drawing upon a now-outdated understanding of pulaaku , or Fulbeness. Instead, the Fulbe should more appropriately be perceived, especially in the realm of permanent architecture, as extraordinarily adaptive. The focus on ethnicity and Islamic faith has in fact blinded scholars to the much stronger connections that can be drawn with local architectural traditions, irrespective of religion or ethnicity.
Aromatease, its inhibitors and their use in breast cancer treatment

Abstract Aromatase, a cytochrome P450 enzyme, catalyses the rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of estrogens. Many processes in male and female development and reproduction and especially in the growth of hormone-dependent cancers, are dependent on estrogens. Therefore, controlling estrogen production by inhibition of aromatse is a logical treatment strategy. Two classes of armatase inhibitors, steroidal compounds, are now coming into use. Among the steroid substrate analogs, 4-hydroxyandrostenedione has been shown to be effective in breast cancer patients with advanced disease and was recently approved for treatment in the United Kingdom. Several highly potent and selective non-steroidal inhibitors are now in clinical trials. The variety of compounds that act as aromatase inhibitors should provide breast cancer patients with a number of new treatment options.
Biomass of Coastal Cutthroat Trout in Unlogged and Previously Clear-Cut Basins in the Central Coast Range of Oregon

Abstract Populations of coastal cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarki clarki were sampled in 16 Oregon headwater streams during 1991–1993. These streams were above upstream migration barriers and distributed among basins that had been logged 20–30 and 40–60 years ago and basins that had not been logged but had burned 125–150 years ago. The objective of our study was to characterize the populations and habitats of age-1 or older cutthroat trout within these three forest management types. Streams within unlogged basins had relatively low levels and a small range of trout biomass (g/m2). Streams in basins logged 40–60 years ago supported low levels but an intermediate range of trout biomass. Streams in basins logged 20–30 years ago supported the widest range of biomass, including the lowest and highest biomasses among all streams sampled. The variable that best explained the variation of trout biomass among all 16 streams was the amount of large woody debris (LWD). All streams were heavily shaded during at lea...
Effects of chronic vitamin E deficiency on the nervous system of the rat

Light- and electron-microscopic studies were carried out on the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) of vitamin E-deficient rats. Extensive axonal degeneration and dystrophic changes were observed in posterior columns and their medullary relay nuclei, respectively. The changes were more prominent in gracile tracts and nuclei than cuneate tracts and nuclei. Alteration in the PNS were less severe than those in the CNS. The posterior roots and sciatic nerves showed only a mild degree of axonal degeneration, while more distal segments of axons in s.c. nerves, in cutaneous sensory corpuscles, and in muscle spindles of hind paws were more severely affected. The neurons in the dorsal root ganglia showed only accumulation of lipofuscin. The above findings in chronic vitamin E deficiency indicate that (a) in addition to the degeneration of central extensions of sensory neurons, their peripheral axons are also affected, (b) the distribution of lesions is similar to those seen in distal axonopathies or a “dying back” process.
Mechanical Loading of Articular Cartilage Reduces IL-1-Induced Enzyme Expression

Objective:Exposure of articular cartilage to interleukin-1 (IL-1) results in increased synthesis of matrix degrading enzymes. Previously mechanical load applied together with IL-1 stimulation was found to reduce aggrecan cleavage by ADAMTS-4 and 5 and MMP-1, -3, -9, and -13 and reduce proteoglycan loss from the extracellular matrix. To further delineate the inhibition mechanism the gene expression of ADAMTS-4 and 5; MMP-1, -3, -9, and -13; and TIMP-1, -2, and -3 were measured.Design:Mature bovine articular cartilage was stimulated with a 0.5 MPa compressive stress and 10 ng/ml of IL-1α for 3 days and then allowed to recover without stimulation for 1 additional day. The media was assayed for proteoglycan content on a daily basis, while chondrocyte gene expression (mRNA) was measured during stimulation and 1 day of recovery.Results:Mechanical load alone did not change the gene expression for ADAMTS, MMP, or TIMP. IL-1 caused an increase in gene expression for all enzymes after 1 day of stimulation while not...
The Molecular Determinants of the Zinc Transporter, hZIP4

Zinc is an essential micronutrient which is required for the function of hundreds of cellular enzymes. In addition, zinc is the second most abundant transition metal found in biological systems (iron is most abundant). However, the concentration of free zinc is nano to picomolar since most zinc is bound to proteins. This makes investigating the mechanism of zinc transport across the plasma membrane a challenge. Our interest has been to elucidate the mechanism of zinc transport mediated by one member of the ZIP family of proteins, hZIP4. hZIP4 is located at the primary location of zinc uptake in humans and has been directly implicated in multiple disease states including Acrodermatitis enteropathica and pancreatic cancer. However the mechanism of transport is not known. We have previously shown that Zn2+, Ni2+ and Cu2+ can be transported by hZIP4, following heterologous expression in X. laevis oocytes, where there are two binding affinities (in the nM and μM range of biometal). Currently, our research interests are to investigate the mechanism of ion translocation using a mixture of biochemical and biophysical techniques.
C-reactive protein and body mass index in children: findings from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-1994.

Objectives: To examine the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration and body mass index (BMI) in children. Study design: With the use of data from 5305 children aged 6 to 18 years in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988 to 1994), a cross-sectional health survey, we examined whether CRP concentrations were elevated among overweight children. Results: Among children whose BMI was below the age- and sex-specific 15th percentile, 6.6% of boys and 10.7% of girls had an elevated CRP concentration (>2.1 mg/L) compared with 24.2% of boys and 31.9% of girls whose BMI was ≥95th percentile. After adjustment was done for age, sex, race or ethnicity, poverty income ratio, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration, white blood cell count, and history of chronic bronchitis, the adjusted odds of having an elevated CRP concentration were 2.20 (95% CI 1.30, 3.75) for children with a BMI of 85th to <95th percentile and 4.92 (95% CI 3.39, 7.15) for children with a BMI of ≥95th percentile compared with children who had a BMI of 15th to <85th percentile. The associations did not differ significantly by age, sex, or race or ethnicity. Conclusions: In a large representative sample of US children, CRP concentration was significantly elevated among children with a BMI ≥85th percentile, thus confirming previous findings of this association in children and extending previous research in adults to children. Excess body weight may be associated with a state of chronic low-grade inflammation in children. (J Pediatr 2001;138:486-92)
Conformational reorganization and solvation dynamics of dendritic oligothiophenes.

We report experiments on dendritic molecules with integrated conjugated chromophores that provide microscopic mechanistic information about their solvation dynamics. The fluorescence of a series of immobilized dendritically organized oligothiophenes is studied as they are exposed to good solvents. Initially, the π-stacking of the oligothiophene units in the dendrimer is destabilized, but full separation of the oligothiophene dendrons takes a time that is orders of magnitude longer due to barriers to torsional motion of the ester linkages. The metastable state prior to separation of the conjugated segments exhibits solution-like spectroscopy but low fluorescence quantum yield relative to the fully solvated segments. This species may play an important role in the photophysics of conjugated oligomer and polymer films. Unusual non-exponential kinetics for the oligothiophene separation step are observed and can be understood in terms of energy transfer among the dendrons.
A type-theoretical alternative to ISWIM, CUCH, OWHY

Abstract The paper (first written in 1969 and circulated privately) concerns the definition, axiomatization, and applications of the hereditarily monotone and continuous functionals generated from the integers and the Booleans (plus “undefined” elements). The system is formulated as a typed system of combinators (or as a typed λ-calculus) with a recursion operator (the least fixed-point operator), and its proof rules are contrasted to a certain extent with those of the untyped λ-calculus. For publication (1993), a new preface has been added, and many bibliographical references and comments in footnotes have been appended.
Of Snakes, Snails, and Surrogates

Abstract The high-resolution structure of a synthetic 13-residue peptide in a tight complex with α-bungarotoxin conforms to the β hairpin structure of a closely related segment in the ACh binding protein and reveals how the ACh binding protein and the homologous nicotinic ACh receptors bind α-bungarotoxin at their ACh binding sites.
A surface integral equation method for solving complicated electrically small structures

A surface integral equation (SIE) method based on contact-region modeling is applied for complicated electrically small structures in packaging and interconnect analysis. LF-MLFMA is employed to solve the matrix equation with O(N) computational cost.
The effect of phospholipid structure on the thermal stability of rhodopsin

Abstract The effect of the major headgroup classes of phospholipids on the conformational stability of rhodopsin is investigated. This is accomplished by measuring the effect of l -α-dimyristylphosphatidic acid (DMPA), l -α-dimyristylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC), l -α-dimyristylphosphatidylethanolamine (DMPE) and l -α-dimyristylphosphatidylserine (DMPS) on the thermal decay rate of rhodopsin in dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) and octylglucoside detergent systems. In the DTAB system the relative stabilization by these phospholipids is DMPA DMPC>DMPE. In the octylglucoside system, the relative stabilization ability is DMPA>DMPS⋍DMPC>DMPE. The relative stabilization ability in a series of lecithin derivatives that differ in fatty acid chain structure is also reported. This series of experiments demonstrate that the structure of the fatty acid chains is as important as the headgroup structure in determining the stabilization ability of a phospholipid.
Film/screen system optimization through the application of radiation transfer models to digitized phantom images

While the design of commercial film screen systems often arrives at optimal or near optimal signal-to-noise performance, the process for achieving these optima is often arduous and expensive. Moreover, while the signal-to-noise ratio is optimized, it is often difficult to predict the optimum signal level for a given class of diagnoses. We have devised a digital system which, by performing calculations on digitally stored `baseline' phantom images recorded by a low speed x ray exposure on a wide dynamic range x-ray film, allows us to optimize system performance and to specify the design of film/screen systems for different classes of diagnostic images before screens and films are actually coated. We describe the application of this model to the development of an optimized system for chest radiology.
Evaluation of the efficacy of caffeine cessation, nortriptyline, and topiramate therapy in vestibular migraine and complex dizziness of unknown etiology

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a therapeutic pathway for vestibular migraine (VM) and complex dizziness of undetermined etiology (CDUE) with caffeine cessation and pharmacotherapy. Study Design This study is a retrospective chart review. Intervention(s) Patients were recommended to stop intake of caffeine and other putative migraine-triggering agents. Pharmacotherapy was initiated with nortriptyline or topiramate if symptoms persisted despite diet modification. Main Outcome Measure Self-reported dizziness is the main outcome measure. Results Vestibular migraine and CDUE were considered contributing factors to dizziness in 34 and 10, respectively, of 156 patients. Fourteen percent of patients reported improvement in symptoms upon caffeine cessation, whereas 46% of patients reported a reduction in dizziness after nortriptyline therapy ( P = .007). Topiramate reduced symptoms in 25% of patients. In total, 75% of VM patients and 56% of patients with CDUE received sufficient benefit from this therapeutic pathway to not progress to other treatments. Conclusions Vestibular migraine and CDUE can be treated effectively with a therapeutic pathway consisting of caffeine cessation followed by pharmacotherapy.
Evolving controllers for autonomous robot search teams

Deploying autonomous robot teams instead of humans in hazardous search and rescue missions could provide immeasurable benefits. In such operations, rescue workers often face environments where information about the physical conditions is impossible to obtain, which not only hampers the efficiency and effectiveness of the effort, but also places the rescuers in life-threatening situations. These types of risk promote the potential for using robot search teams in place of humans. This article presents the design and implementation of controllers to provide robots with appropriate behavior. The effective utilization of genetic algorithms to evolve controllers for teams of homogeneous autonomous robots for area coverage in search and rescue missions is described, along with a presentation of a robotic simulation program which was designed and developed. The main objective of this study was to contribute to efforts which attempt to implement real-world robotic solutions for search and rescue missions.
On latent track formation in organic nuclear charged particle track detectors

In recent years, in a number of laboratories throughout the world, a considerable amount of effort has gone into the development and the understanding of organic nuclear charged particle track detectors. Even in their developmental stage these detectors have found numerous applications in several scientific fields. The object of this paper is to present a brief resume of some of the most important recent developments in this field. The scope is limited to the pre-etching phenomena; etching and post-etching treatments are covered by Medveczky.(1)
The Shapley–Folkman theorem and the range of a bounded measure: an elementary and unified treatment

We present proofs, based on the Shapley–Folkman theorem, of the convexity of the range of a strongly continuous, finitely additive measure, as well as that of an atomless, countably additive measure. We also present proofs, based on diagonalization and separation arguments respectively, of the closure of the range of a purely atomic or purely nonatomic countably additive measure. A combination of these results yields Lyapunov’s celebrated theorem on the range of a countably additive measure. We also sketch, through a comprehensive bibliography, the pervasive diversity of the applications of the Shapley–Folkman theorem in mathematical economics.
Critical Evaluation of Chlorpyrifos' Breast Cancer Risk

Abstract Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate pesticide extensively used in agricultural and non-agricultural settings. It has been widely used as a termiticide in homes and buildings. There are reports that demonstrate the potential for widespread non-occupational exposure and for children to come in contact with this insecticide. There has been no cancer risk classification for chlorpyrifos by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Toxicology Program (NTP) or the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). For this report, we have used a modification of IARC approach to conduct a detailed evaluation of any direct or related evidence of cancer risk from exposure to chlorpyrifos, with a focus on breast cancer risk. We have critically evaluated all the available human, experimental animal and cancer-related molecular and mechanistic studies on chlorpyrifos. Chemical and up-to-date regulatory information is included, as well as a discussion of chlorpyrifos’ environmental fate and p...
Transmission line circuit models for inhomogeneous optical fiber

Abstract The dispersion characteristics of inhomogeneous dielectric waveguides are studied using a transverse transmission line representation. With the techniques of distributed circuit analysis the behavior of graded index optical fiber is explained using network theoretic ideas. Specifically, network models are developed through which insight as to the mechanisms underlying the dispersion characteristics of such structures is gained from a transmission line filter analogy. For the case of circular geometries, new approximations for the radial Bessel functions are presented which again results in a simple transmission line filter.
Circadian activity rhythm influenced by near zero magnetic field

CIRCADIAN periodicity has been observed in many organisms. Motor activity, body temperature, and oxygen consumption are among the functions shown to possess a diurnal rhythm. Many of these rhythms are easily entrained to a natural or artificial cycle of light and darkness. In constant laboratory conditions of light and temperature, rhythms persist, but are slightly longer or slightly shorter than 24 h (ref. 1). The persistence of rhythms in constant conditions together with the evidence from translocation experiments2, are considered evidence that rhythms are endogenous. Many researchers, among them Pittendrigh3, Aschoff4, and Enright5, adhere to the endogenous rhythm hypothesis.
Acetylcholine receptor-mediated sodium ion efflux after rapid hypoosmotic loading of radiotracer

Abstract Torpedo membrane vesicles (microsacs) enriched in acetylcholine receptors can be loaded with radiotracer permeants such as 22 Na + and [ 3 H]sucrose in only a few minutes. The fast loading technique employs exposure of vesicles to hypoosmotic solutions containing the radiotracers. Subsequent to loading of permeants, their efflux from the vesicles can be determined by a Millipore filtration technique. Efflux rates following hypoosmotic loading are comparable to those following the conventional loading technique which employs isotonic solutions. Hence, efflux measurements can be begun immediately after vesicle preparation. Furthermore, simultaneous loading of 22 Na + and [ 3 H]sucrose allows a normalization of 22 Na + efflux with respect to vesicle volume, since 22 Na + , but not [ 3 H]sucrose, is released specifically by cholinergic effectors. Such double-isotope measurements increase the reliability of the data derived.
Evaluating the meaning of “layer” in the martian north polar layered deposits and the impact on the climate connection

Abstract Using data from the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) aboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, we reassess the methods by which layers within the north polar layered deposits (NPLD) can be delineated and their thicknesses measured. Apparent brightness and morphology alone are insufficient for this task; high resolution topographic data are necessary. From these analyses, we find that the visible appearance of layers depends to a large degree on the distribution of younger, mantling deposits (which in turn is partially influenced by inherent layer properties) and on the shape and location of the particular outcrop. This younger mantle partially obscures layer morphology and brightness and is likely a cause of the gradational contacts between individual layers at this scale. High resolution images reveal that there are several layers similar in appearance to the well-known marker bed discovered by Malin, M., Edgett, K., 2001. J. Geophys. Res. 106, 23429–23570. The morphology, thicknesses ( 4 - 8 ± 2 m ) , and separation distances ( 5 - 32 ± 2 m ) of these marker beds, as gleaned from a high resolution stereo digital elevation model, lend insight into the connection between stratigraphy and climate.
Quality and price perceptions of major hotel/motel chains for business travel: an exploratory study.

Abstract A survey is conducted to assess price-quality perceptions of major lodging brands for business travel. The findings show that travellers perceive brands in groupings and perceive little difference in price and quality within each grouping. Choice of brands for business travel fall mainly in the upscale grouping. The extent that price-quality perceptions influenced brand choice is complex. Price-quality perceptions were a strong influence among the half-half and leisure segments. Previous experience may have influenced brand choice for the business segment. A discussion of possible strategy implications concludes the study.
Promoting a core electron to fill a d-shell in negative ions: Shape versus Feshbach resonances and a novel threshold law

Two new results emerging from inner-shell photodetachment of transition metal negative ions are obtained, following studies in Pt−. First, the d-wave form of the Wigner threshold law is observed for the first time in single-photon measurements. Second, single-vacancy valence shells are filled with a core electron. While this should result in stabilization of the core excited state, producing Feshbach resonances, we find that stabilization does not occur for some core excitations, dramatically demonstrating the importance of core-valence interactions.
Controller parameter adaptation algorithm using unfalsified control theory and gradient method

In this paper a new controller parameter adaptation rule is proposed. The proposed adaptation rule is derived via unfalsification control theory and gradient method without imposing many assumptions on the plant. Convergence of parameter is discussed. Numerical examples and simulation results are also provided.
Web search and browsing behavior under poor connectivity

Web search and browsing have been streamlined for a comfortable experience when the network connection is fast. Existing tools, however, are not optimized for scenarios where connectivity is poor, as is the case for many users in developing regions where fast connections are expensive, rare, or unavailable. This study examined how users' web search and browsing behavior differs when the connection is slow, and whether users employ techniques to alleviate the problem. In a preliminary study involving 15 subjects on a university campus in Kerala, India, we identify unique mitigating behaviors of users who routinely suffer low-bandwidth or intermittent connections. We examine the challenges faced by these users and find that existing web search and browsing infrastructure is simply incapable of providing a good experience. Finally we outline potential design improvements.
College Teacher Misbehaviors: Direct and Indirect Effects on Student Communication Behavior and Traditional Learning Outcomes

The purpose of this study was to examine a theoretical model of the relationship between teacher misbehaviors and both student communication behavior (i.e., student resistance, student participation) and learning outcomes (i.e., cognitive learning, affective learning, state motivation, communication satisfaction). Participants were 343 students who reported on their instructor's behavior in addition to their own classroom behavior and learning. Results of structural equation modeling suggest that teacher misbehaviors are related (a) directly and indirectly with teacher-owned and student-owned resistance strategies, state motivation, and student communication satisfaction, and (b) indirectly with student participation and cognitive learning. Indirect paths were mediated by affective learning.
The Bhakta and the Sage: An Intertextual Dialogue

Comparing the Bhagavad Gītā and the Buddhist essay “Prajnā is Not-knowing” (Panruo Wuzhi 般若無知) yields interesting insights. The texts have similar dialogical structures and discuss complex philosophical matters. Rhetorically, both texts weave together quotations and allusions from other texts, make liberal use of paradox, and have decidedly spiritual intentions. Their differences, though, remain striking. They emerge from distinct circumstances and their original languages (Sanskrit, Chinese) differ markedly. Stylistically, “Prajnā” is more intellectual and less devotional, espousing a distinctly “this worldly” ideal; by contrast, the Gītā is more dramatic. While espousing “this worldly” ideals, the Gītā is more inclusive and thus more accessible to a broad audience; on the contrary, “Prajnā” has a subtler effect, its “dark” qualities appealing to a more select group. Therefore, while these texts are not “the same,” reading across their convergences and divergences can lead to a deeper understanding of mysticism and cross-cultural spirituality.
Highly purified dihydrofolate reductase of calf thymus

Abstract A procedure has been developed for the preparation of essentially pure dihydrofolate reductase (5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolate: NAD(P)+ oxidoreductase, EC 1.5.1.3) from calf-thymus glands. The following criteria of purity were observed: The preparation exhibited only a single protein component by sedimentation ultracentrifugation, sedimentation equilibrium, sucrose gradient centrifugation, and Sephadex chromatography; with a mean mol. wt. of 33 500. Electrophoresis on acrylamide gel showed only a single boundary. The pH-activity curve, relative substrate specificity, Michaelis constants of the substrates, and the SH character of the enzyme have been determined. Monovalent cations and Mg2+ enhanced the enzyme activity. Other divalent cations and sulfhydryl reagents were inhibitory. No stimulation of enzyme activity could be obtained by organic mercurials or urea.