cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of Self-Consolidating Concrete for Thin Wall Applications Including Validation

This study presents a self-consolidating concrete mix developed for thin wall construction. Casting of vertical thin concrete walls requires a stable, pumpable, and highly flowable mix. The developed mix has increased fine-to-coarse aggregate ratio, 20% fly ash replacement, a low w/cm ratio, a superplasticizer, an accelerator (optional), and a viscosity modifying admixture. A special placement method was designed for pumping the concrete from the bottom of the vertical wall form. Concrete walls of 75-mm thickness reinforced with one or two steel grid layers were cast and loaded to failure under one-way and two-way bending configurations. The one-way slabs resembled portal frames and were loaded with a line load along the centerline. Plastic hinges formed at the centerline of the one-way slabs and then at a corner, where reinforcement was greater. The two-way slabs were loaded with a small-area concentric uniform distributed load. A yield line strength analysis was performed and matched quite closely the experimental capacities. It was concluded that it is possible to cast high strength vertical thin walls with self-consolidating concrete by pumping from the bottom of the form.
Scalable rational secret sharing

We consider the classical secret sharing problem in the case where all agents are selfish but rational. In recent work, Kol and Naor show that in the non-simultaneous communciation model (i.e. when rushing is possible), there is no Nash equilibrium that ensures all agents learn the secret. However, they describe a mechanism for this problem that is an e-Nash equilibrium, i.e. it is close to an equilibrium in the sense that no player can gain more than e utility by deviating from it.Unfortunately, the Kol and Naor mechanism, and, to the best of our knowledge, all previous mechanisms for this problem require each agent to send O(n) messages in expectation, where n is the number of agents. This may be problematic for some applications of rational secret sharing such as secure multiparty computation and simulation of a mediator.We address this issue by describing a mechanism for rational n-out-of-n secret sharing that is an e-Nash equilibrium, and is scalable in the sense that it requires each agent to send only an expected O(1) bits. Moreover, the latency of our mechanism is O(log n) in expectation, compared to O(n) expected latency for the Kol and Naor result. We also design mechanisms for a relaxed variant of rational m-out-of-n secret sharing where m = Θ(n) that require each processor to send O(log n) bits and have O(\log n) latency. Our mechanisms are non-cryptographic, and are not susceptible to backwards induction.
Cancer: Drug for an 'undruggable' protein

Scientists have long aimed to develop drugs against the cancer-associated protein KRAS, but without success. An approach that targets the oncoprotein's cellular localization reignites lost enthusiasm. See Letter p.638
Shifts of attention in the identification and discrimination of intensity.

Subjects’ ability to resolve stimuli varying in loudness is studied by manipulating task requirements and sequential dependencies in signal presentations. In the first experiment, subjects are required both to identify and to discriminate the same set of 11 randomly presented signals. On the one hand, resolution performance is virtually unchanged under the differing task instructions. On the other hand, large effects on sensitivity are obtained in Experiments 1, 2, and 3 in both identification and discrimination tasks when sequential dependencies are manipulated. The results are interpreted in terms of a shifting attention band in the intensity dimension, as suggested by Luce, Green, and Weber (1976). Preliminary evidence that subjects can voluntarily focus the attention band on a given region of the intensity continuum is obtained.
Adverse side effects associated with latanoprost.

Purpose To report three different adverse reactions after initiating treatment with latanoprost. Method Serial clinical examinations of three patients were performed. Results Adverse reactions such as ocular hypotony and choroidal effusions, recurrent cystoid macular edema, and facial rash were noted to occur within 1 to 4 weeks after starting topical latanoprost for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma. Conclusion Clinicians should be alerted to these possible complications of topical latanoprost therapy.
The second annual Dartmouth botulinum research symposium discusses the effect of botulinum neurotoxin on the central nervous system

This report discusses presentations at the Second Annual Botulinum Research Symposium, 21?22 August 2008, at UMass Dartmouth.
What has NCCLS done for you lately

Abstract NCCLS is best known to microbiologists for the development of standards for the performance and reporting of antibacterial susceptibility tests, which include frequent updates with new drug information and guidance for detection of emerging antibiotic resistance. However, NCCLS also publishes a number of other documents that deal with antifungal, antimycobacterial, and antiviral testing and testing of antibacterial agents against bacteria recovered from various animal species. In addition, there are useful publications on quality control of culture media, rapid identification of common bacteria and yeasts, laboratory safety, parasitology, and new projects under way that focus on specimen transport, viral culture methods, and Mycoplasma susceptibility testing.
Regulation of an early RNA transcribed from the transforming segment of the adenovirus 2 genome.

Abstract Early cytoplasmic RNA transcribed from the left end of the adenovirus 2 genome (region 1) is composed of two major size classes which migrate as 22 and 13 S RNAs. Previous studies demonstrated that translational inhibitors (such as cycloheximide) stimulate a 10-fold accumulation of early viral RNAs labeled 3–5 hr after infection. One notable exception to the cycloheximide effect is the 22 S RNA transcribed from region 1. To clarify this differential effect of cycloheximide, the metabolism of region 1 RNA was compared in several experiments. The kinetics of accumulation of these RNAs in the absence of drug was analyzed beginning 3 hr after infection. The 13 S size class accumulated more rapidly than the 22 S RNA; after 2 hr of labeling, there was a 3-fold excess of 13 S RNA as compared with cultures labeled for 3 hr. Chase experiments using either actinomycin D in the absence of cycloheximide or cold uridine when cycloheximide was present demonstrated that the 22 S RNA was more stable than the 13 S size class. Thus, a 22 S species is unlikely to serve as precursor to a major smaller RNA. Early RNAs synthesized in the presence of the amino acid analogues canavanine or β-hydroxynorvaline also contained increased amounts of region 1 13 S RNA but not the 22 S size class. To determine the effect of delayed cycloheximide addition, infections were performed in the absence of inhibitors and cycloheximide was then added 4 hr later. Under these conditions, the 22 S RNA synthesized from 4.5–6.5 hr accumulated in increased amounts, comparable to the other early RNAs. The results suggest that a protein synthesized early in infection regulates the cytoplasmic concentration of 22 S RNA.
Hypercholesterolemia and coronary heart disease in the elderly: a meta-analysis.

Abstract Purpose To determine whether hypercholesterolemia is an independent risk factor for CHD morbidity and mortality in persons aged 65 years and above, and to quantify the magnitude of the association, if any, using data from follow-up studies. Methods A MEDLINE search of all published studies that evaluated the association between high cholesterol levels and CHD in persons aged 65 years and above, and the relevant articles referenced in these studies, were used as sources of selected articles. Results In men aged 65 years and above who were followed from middle age, the RR for CHD incidence associated with 1.0 mmol/L increase in total cholesterol was 1.28 (CI: 1.17–1.39). The RR for CHD mortality associated with a similar increase in total cholesterol was 1.22 (CI: 1.18–1.27). In elderly men followed from age 65 and above, the RR was 1.24 (CI: 1.1–1.37) for CHD incidence, and 1.22(CI: 1.15–1.28) for CHD mortality. In elderly women followed after age 65, the association between total cholesterol and CHD mortality was not significant. For men aged 80 years and above at entry, total cholesterol showed an inverse relationship with all-cause mortality. Conclusion Serum total cholesterol shows a positive association with CHD morbidity and mortality in men aged 65 years and above. This may, however, not hold true for persons aged 80 years and above.
711-5 Mechanism of Benefit of Platelet lib/ilia Receptor Inhibition in High Risk Angioplasty in the EPIC Trial: A Hierarchical Endpoint Analysis

The EPIC trial demonstrated the potent platelet IIb/1l1a inhibitor, c7E3 reduced the incidence of acute complications in high risk angioplasty. The primary endpoint was a composite of death, myocardial infarction (MI), repeat urgent PTCA or CABG, and emergency stent or balloon pump insertion. Event rates were recorded by the firstoccurrence of an endpoint, yet 30% of pts experienced more than one endpoint. To further characterize the mechanism of effect of potent platelet antagonism during angioplasty, we determined c7E3's efficacy according to the most seriousendpoint reached. Endpoints were ranked hierarchically according to degree of seriousness in the order of death, MI, and urgent intervention. The three treatment groups were placebo, bolus (B) or bolus plus infusion (B + I) of c7E3. Results There were no differences in death rates among the 3 treatment groups, (although 2 pts who died in the B + I group never received the drug). Reduction in MI in pts who survived (4.4% B + I vs 7.9% placebo), accounted for 78% of the 4.5% absolute decrease in the composite primary endpoint by B + I (8.3% vs 12.8% placebo p = 0.003). In pts that survived and had no MI, a reduction in urgent repeat intervention (2.2% vs 3.2% for placebo) accounted for only 22% of the overall reduction of the primary endpoint by B + I. Although urgent repeat intervention was less with B + I, the greatest benefit was in pts who also had MI (1.4% vs 4.5% in placebo p l 0.001). Download : Download high-res image (113KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions Hierarchical endpoint analysis demonstrates that the mechanism of benefit of c7E3 bolus plus infusion treatment in high risk angioplasty was principally the reduction of MI, ratherthan a decrease in need for urgent repeat intervention.
Capital cost and adjusted present value: Reconciliation and amplification

Abstract In recent years the adjusted present value method has been propounded for capital budgeting analysis. A comparison of the standard cost of capital approach to the adjusted present value method indicates that the two analyses produce exactly equivalent present value appraisals, as long as the enterprise contemplating the asset has a policy of keeping the degree of leverage constant. The conclusions reached are independent of the firm's target leverage position matching its present posture.
IRB Chairs' Perspectives on Genomics Research Involving Stored Biological Materials: Ethical Concerns and Proposed Solutions.

We evaluated 55 irb chairs' perspectives on ethical issues in a hypothetical study involving mental health–related genomics research using stored specimens to identify potential barriers and solutions to such research. Most chairs identified the ethical issues of consent and confidentially as important. The majority of Chairs expressed concern about using materials in new research, especially concerning a mental health condition, that was not discussed in the original consent. Few Chairs considered permissible strategies, such as de-identification and waiver of consent, which could allow the proposed research to go forward without consent. Chairs who reviewed more protocols and had attended conferences on human subjects protection identified more of the salient ethical issues in the scenario. Our study could not determine whether Chairs were not familiar with the strategies of de-identification and waiver of consent, or believed that they did not adequately protect participants who had provided specimens ...
Kink site saturation mechanism for whisker growth under sputtering conditions

Abstract We consider what should happen when surface adsorbed atoms are created at a rate faster than they can be accommodated at kink sites on a surface, such as graphite, for which the nucleation of new growth steps and kinks is difficult. We suppose that this is the condition of common ion beam sputtering systems when the beam current exceeds a critical value. We conclude that, following the nucleation of a second phase as a basal structure, whiskers should grow in the direction of the ion beam, whatever its orientation to the surface normal. Provided that possible attachment sites on the sides of the whiskers are bound, as by termination of dangling bonds by the hydrogen generally present in sputtering systems, the whiskers should grow in length at a constant rate with little or no increase in their diameter. This is because the tips of the whiskers would provide the only nonsaturable source of attachment sites for the surface adsorbed atoms produced by subsequent sputtering. We suggest that this mechanism is responsible for the growth of carbon whiskers with diameters of order 15 nm and remarkably high aspect ratios on graphite surfaces in 1 keV sputtering systems. Such whiskers have been grown to a length in excess of 20 μm and have been demonstrated to be clearly different from the scrolled-graphite structure whiskers obtained by catalytic pyrolysis of hydrocarbons.
News function of a bounded source of perfect fluid

Abstract The gravitational field of a bounded source of perfect fluid is studied in a new approximation method in general relativity. The field in the radiation zone is determined and the news function is expressed in terms of the fluid variables.
Molecular-Orbital Studies of the Electronic States of Amorphous Selenium

The electronic energy structure of Se chains and rings are studied by a molecular-orbital approach, i.e., using the hybrid orbitals as bases and using the semiempirical Hamiltonian matrix elements. The choices of the bases and the semiempirical parameters are discussed. The calculated density of states is in excellent agreement with that obtained for amorphous Se by photoemission experiments (Nielsen). The simulated joint density of states resembles the observed ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{2}$ spectra (Leiga, Stuke). A new interpretation for the double peaks in the valence-band density of states and in the ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{2}$ spectra is given.
Frequency/stress sensitivity of s.a.w. resonators

Surface-acoustic-wave resonators can be used as stress sensors for measuring force and pressure. Experiments at 160 MHz using rotated y-cut substrates indicate that larger linear changes in resonator frequency can be obtained by deforming the substrate. The s.a.w. transducers, besides being small in size, are also stable in frequency.
Cerebral protein synthesis and long-term habituation.

Presentation of a loud conspecific distress cry markedly suppressed drinking in thirsty mice. Short-term and long-term habituation to three distress cries were evidenced by a gradual and persistent reduction in the capacity of distress cries to suppress drinking. When cerebral protein synthesis inhibition was initiated by anisomycin before or immediately after habituation training, long-term habituation was impaired; the results could not be explained by conditioned gustatory aversion or by other effects of drug treatment on drinking. These findings suggest that cerebral protein synthesis is required for the development of long-term habituation.
Comparison of percent hatch and fungal infestation in channel catfish eggs after copper sulfate, diquat bromide, formalin, and hydrogen peroxide treatment.

Abstract Reduced survival of fish eggs is often a result of infestation with fungi Saprolegnia spp. However, timely chemical treatments often limit these infestations and increase survival. The effect of copper sulfate pentahydrate (CSP; 10 mg of CSP/L of water), diquat bromide (25 mg of diquat cation/L), formalin (433 mg/L), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; 250 mg/L) on percent hatch and fungal infestation in eggs of channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus was compared in two identical trials (five replicates for each chemical treatment per trial). The percent hatch in all chemical treatments was significantly better than percent hatch of the controls. The amount of fungal coverage on egg masses treated with CSP, formalin, and H2O2 was significantly less than that observed on the controls. Although not statistically different from the other treatments, H2O2 at 250 mg/L exhibited the highest average percent hatch (64%; control hatch = 34%), the lowest fungal coverage (1.5 cm; control coverage = 7.2 cm), and the l...
Metabolic abnormalities detected by 1H-MRS in dyscalculia and dysgraphia.

Article abstract Proton MRS was performed in a patient with developmental acalculia. The results indicated a focal, wedge-shaped defect in the left temporoparietal brain region near the angular gyrus, with differential decreases in N-acetyl-aspartate, creatine, and choline. These results support the hypothesis that developmental acalculia, like acquired acalculia, is associated with left posterior hemisphere lesions.
Establishment, retention, and loss to follow-up in outpatient HIV care.

BACKGROUND For optimal clinical benefit, HIV-infected patients should receive periodic outpatient care indefinitely. However, initially establishing HIV care and subsequent retention in care are problematic. This study examines establishment, retention, and loss to follow-up (LTFU) in a large multi-site cohort over a 2-8 year period. METHODS Medical record data were reviewed for 22,984 adult HIV patients receiving care at 12 clinics in the HIV Research Network between 2001 and 2009. Three dichotomous outcome measures were based on each patient's history of outpatient visits. Establishment reflects whether the patient made outpatient visits for longer than 6 months after initial enrollment. The retention measure reflects whether the patient had at least 2 outpatient visits separated by 90 days in each year in care. LTFU reflects whether the patient had no outpatient visits for more than 12 months without returning. Multiple logistic regression examined demographic and clinical correlates of each outcome and the combined outcome of meeting all 3 measures. RESULTS Overall, 21.7% of patients never established HIV care after an initial visit. Among established patients, 57.4% did not meet the retention criterion in all years, and 34.9% were LTFU. Only 20.4% of all patients met all 3 criteria. The odds of successfully meeting all 3 criteria were higher for women, for older patients, for Hispanics compared with whites, and for those with CD4 levels ≤50 cells per cubic millimeter. CONCLUSIONS These data highlight the need to improve establishment and retention in HIV care.
Purification and characterization of OleA from Xanthomonas campestris and demonstration of a non-decarboxylative claisen condensation reaction

OleA catalyzes the condensation of fatty acyl groups in the first step of bacterial long-chain olefin biosynthesis, but the mechanism of the condensation reaction is controversial. In this study, OleA from Xanthomonas campestris was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity. The purified protein was shown to be active with fatty acyl-CoA substrates that ranged from C8 to C16 in length. With limiting myristoyl-CoA (C14), 1 mol of the free coenzyme A was released/mol of myristoyl-CoA consumed. Using [14C]myristoyl-CoA, the other products were identified as myristic acid, 2-myristoylmyristic acid, and 14-heptacosanone. 2-Myristoylmyristic acid was indicated to be the physiologically relevant product of OleA in several ways. First, 2-myristoylmyristic acid was the major condensed product in short incubations, but over time, it decreased with the concomitant increase of 14-heptacosanone. Second, synthetic 2-myristoylmyristic acid showed similar decarboxylation kinetics in the absence of OleA. Third, 2-myristoylmyristic acid was shown to be reactive with purified OleC and OleD to generate the olefin 14-heptacosene, a product seen in previous in vivo studies. The decarboxylation product, 14-heptacosanone, did not react with OleC and OleD to produce any demonstrable product. Substantial hydrolysis of fatty acyl-CoA substrates to the corresponding fatty acids was observed, but it is currently unclear if this occurs in vivo. In total, these data are consistent with OleA catalyzing a non-decarboxylative Claisen condensation reaction in the first step of the olefin biosynthetic pathway previously found to be present in at least 70 different bacterial strains.
Sleep and Its Disorders in Seniors.

Over the past decade, knowledge about age-related changes in sleep has significantly increased. It is now known that there are both normal, age-related changes in sleep architecture and sleep patterns, and a variety of sleep complaints and sleep disorders that increase with age. This article reviews both normal and abnormal sleep in the elderly.
Rapid and accurate viral diagnosis.

Abstract In recent years, there has been increased recognition of the importance of viral infections. In addition, new antiviral agents have become available. These factors have led to a marked increase in utilization of viral diagnositc services. In this review, both conventional and rapid methods for viral diagnosis are presented, with emphasis on recent advances. The antiviral agents currently available and the major drugs under investigation are also briefly discussed. It is hoped that this review will serve as a useful adjunct for the management of patients with virus infections.
A soft x-ray polarimeter designed for broadband x-ray telescopes

A novel approach for measuring linear X-ray polarization over a broad-band using conventional imaging optics and cameras is described. A new type of high efficiency grating, called the critical angle transmission grating is used to disperse soft X-rays radially from the telescope axis. A set of multilayer-coated paraboloids re-image the dispersed X-rays to rings in the focal plane. The intensity variation around these rings is measured to determine three Stokes parameters: I, Q, and U. By laterally grading the multilayer optics and matching the dispersion of the gratings, one may take advantage of high multilayer reflectivities and achieve modulation factors over 50% over the entire 0.2 to 0.8 keV band. A sample design is shown that could be used with the Constellation-X optics.
Tolerance to the motor impairment, but not to the reversal of PCP-induced motor activities by oral administration of the mGlu2/3 receptor agonist, LY379268

The potent metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptor agonist, LY379268, selectively activates mGlu2/3 receptors with EC50 values in the low nanomolar range. We have previously shown in rats that LY379268 reverses phencyclidine (PCP)-induced motor activations (increases in ambulations and fine movements, and decreases in the animals time at rest). Here, we have investigated: (1) the dose-response and time course for this action of LY379268 following oral (p.o.) administration and (2) the therapeutic index in this model following acute versus subchronic (4 days) p.o. dosing. LY379268 (3 mg/kg p.o.) evoked a maximal effect on PCP (5 mg/kg s.c.)-elicited behaviors 4 h post-dosing. At this time point, p.o. LY379268 inhibited the effects on PCP-elicited activities with a similar potency (ED50 values ca 1 mg/kg) to that previously obtained following s.c. administration. Doses up to 3 mg/kg p.o. LY379268 were without effect on the rotorod performance of rats when measured at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 24 h post-administration. In agreement with the peak time-effect on PCP-evoked motor behaviors, 10 mg/kg p.o. LY379268 only significantly impaired rotorod performance at the 4-h time point. Interestingly, acute motor impairment produced by higher doses of LY379268 (10, 30, or 100 mg/kg p.o.) was absent following 4-day repeated administration of LY379268. In contrast, the potency of LY379268 for the inhibition of PCP-evoked motor activities was not affected following multiple dosing over a similar period. These results demonstrate that although the reduction of PCP motor activities by LY379268 is maintained after subchronic dosing, tolerance to the motor impairment evoked by the compound occurs, thus greatly widening the therapeutic index of LY379268.
Strategic ambiguity about military capacity with multiple adversaries

I present a model in which a nation must decide whether to reveal its military capacity when the nation faces two possible adversaries. One adversary would be inclined to attack if the country has a weak military capacity, and the other adversary would be inclined to attack preemptively if the country is developing a strong military capacity. I derive conditions under which it is an equilibrium for the nation to be ambiguous about its military capacity as a function of the hawkishness of the adversaries and the accuracy of the adversaries’ national intelligence.
Coupon response in services

Abstract To date, most marketing research has focused primarily on the use of coupons for the promotion of packaged goods. Coupons are widely used in service establishments, even though little is known about a coupon’s impact on consumer behavior. Through the use of a field experiment, this study examined coupon redemption, purchase timing, and repeat purchase for 984 subjects. Consumer purchase histories and coupon response data were gathered via identification cards and electronic cash register reports. Results of the study show, as with packaged goods, prior purchase frequency is a significant predictor of coupon redemption. Coupon redeemers were almost seven and a half times more likely to make a repeat purchase during the postpromotion period compared to nonredeemers and subsequent purchase timing was not influenced by coupon redemption. As it relates to redemption, consumers’ behavioral response to coupons in the test establishment appeared to be similar to those found in some packaged goods studies, but different as it relates to purchase timing and repeat purchase probability.
Smoking Cessation: Next Steps for Special Populations Research and Innovative Treatments

Objective: The current introductory article provides the rationale for the special section on understudied smokers and innovative treatments. This article proposes a definition of “special populations” of smokers, outlines a priori criteria by which to judge whether an intervention should be adapted for these smokers, and delineates a process by which cultural adaptation of an intervention can be achieved. Next steps for innovative, theory-based treatments with special populations and with general populations of smokers are discussed. Method: Special populations of smokers are defined as having (a) 10% higher smoking prevalence than the general population of smokers, (b) disproportionate tobacco-related health disparities, (c) less access to treatments, and (d) a lack of prospective, longitudinal treatment trials. Results: Cultural adaptation of evidenced-based treatments (EBTs) for underserved smokers should be applied more widely, outside the bounds of race and ethnicity, but also judiciously, following several a priori criteria. Cultural adaptation may be justified if the target population differs from the general population in (a) rates and patterns of smoking, (b) burden of tobacco-related health diseases, (c) predictors of smoking behavior, (d) risk factors for treatment failure, (e) protective factors that facilitate quitting, (f) treatment engagement, (g) treatment response, and (h) perceived social validity of the EBT. Once these criteria are met, four phases of cultural adaptation of an EBT for the target population are proposed. Innovative treatments need to be developed that use novel channels and linkages between channels; test novel theories or build on mechanisms research to more accurately pinpoint targets of change; and increase consumer demand for EBTs. Conclusion: The process of cultural adaptation should be thoughtfully conducted with a priori definitions and criteria as well as standardized processes. Coupled with innovative, theory-based treatments, these considerations could help to jump-start stalled smoking cessation rates.
Catalase activity is regulated by c-Abl and Arg in the oxidative stress response.

The Abl family of mammalian non-receptor tyrosine kinases includes c-Abl and Arg. Recent studies have demonstrated that c-Abl and Arg are activated in the response of cells to oxidative stress. This work demonstrates that catalase, a major effector of the cellular defense against H2O2, interacts with c-Abl and Arg. The results show that H2O2 induced binding of c-Abl and Arg to catalase. The SH3 domains of c-Abl and Arg bound directly to catalase at a P293FNP site. c-Abl and Arg phosphorylated catalase at Tyr231 and Tyr386 in vitro and in the response of cells to H2O2. The functional significance of the interaction is supported by the demonstration that cells deficient in both c-Abl and Arg exhibit substantial increases in H2O2 levels. In addition, c-abl –/– arg –/– cells exhibited a marked increase in H2O2-induced apoptosis compared with that found in the absence of either kinase. These findings indicate that c-Abl and Arg regulate catalase and that this signaling pathway is of importance to apoptosis in the oxidative stress response.
Ancrod in the Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke

Although ancrod has been used in Europe and Canada since 1968 for various conditions including heparin-induced thrombocytopenia [1], peripheral vascular disease [2] and deep-vein thrombosis [3], its f
Transcervical polidocanol as a nonsurgical method of female sterilization: a pilot study.

The article by Jensen et al. is of interest evaluating polidocanol as a new sclerosing agent which might be used for transcervical chemical sterilization. This paper leaves the impression that quinacrine sterilization (QS) is not ready for clinical trials because of past concerns about a lack of data on the toxicology of local application of quinacrine (Q). These concerns followed the 1993 publication in The Lancet of the national experience with QS in Vietnam. The World Health Organization would not support clinical trials of QS alleging a lack of data. There were more than sufficient toxicological data then and there are more now. In the bibliography of a recent review of QS by Zipper and Kessel one can find 25 references published before 1993 i.e. before the WHO bmoratorium Q attesting to the lack of toxicity from Q. Five of these articles were pharmacological and/or pharmacokinetic animal studies. There were no revelations of serious toxic effects from the local application of Q. In 1942 the Winthrop Company published a bibliography of 171 articles on the systemic toxicology of Q. (excerpt)
Changes in Renal Function After Implantation of Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine renal outcomes after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation.Background: Renal dysfunction before LVAD placement is frequent, and it is...
Mechanisms underlying basal and learning-related intrinsic excitability in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Accumulations of β-amyloid (Aβ) contribute to neurological deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The effects of Aβ on basal neuronal excitability and learning-related AHP plasticity were examined using whole-cell recordings from hippocampal neurons in the 5XFAD mouse model of AD. A robust increase in Aβ42 (and elevated levels of Aβ38-40) in naive 5XFAD mice was associated with decreased basal neuronal excitability, evidenced by a select increase in Ca(2+)-sensitive afterhyperpolarization (AHP). Moreover, trace fear deficits observed in a subset of 5XFAD weak-learner mice were associated with a greater enhancement of the AHP in neurons, as compared to age-matched 5XFAD learner and 5XFAD naive mice. Importantly, learning-related plasticity of the AHP remained intact in a subset of 5XFAD mice that learned trace fear conditioning to a set criterion. We show that APP-PS1 mutations enhance Aβ and disrupt basal excitability via a Ca(2+)-dependent enhancement of the AHP, and suggest disruption to learning-related modulation of intrinsic excitability resulted, in part, from altered cholinergic modulation of the AHP in the 5XFAD mouse model of AD (170 of 170).
Management of osteoporosis among the elderly with other chronic medical conditions

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent chronic disease in the US and worldwide. The most serious consequence of this disorder is fractures, which have a serious negative impact on quality of life and are often the trigger for accelerated deterioration, ultimately ending in death. Despite the availability of effective preventive treatments, osteoporosis is frequently underdiagnosed and/or undertreated, particularly among the elderly, who are also at greatest risk. In addition, the presence of co-morbid medical conditions may be both a barrier to osteoporosis care and a risk factor for falls; thus individuals with multiple co-morbid conditions may be a particularly high-risk group. The management of osteoporosis involves improving bone health via adequate nutrition, calcium and vitamin D supplements, and fall prevention strategies. Although these measures are important in the management of all patients, most elderly patients are likely to need additional pharmacological therapy to adequately reduce their fracture risk. Several pharmacological treatments have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of fracture, including bisphosphonates (e.g. alendronate, risedronate, ibandronate, zoledronic acid), denosumab, raloxifene, calcitonin and teriparatide. Despite recent advances in osteoporosis care, additional action is urgently needed to improve the quality of life of osteoporotic patients in general and of elderly patients in particular, since fracture outcomes are typically poorer in older than in younger patients. This article reviews the current status of osteoporosis management, emphasizing the need to improve osteoporosis care, with a particular focus on the US, by the use of quality-improvement measures and incentives, which might result in an increased awareness and improved treatment for this debilitating disease.
On the flexural creep of single-crystal silicon

The investigation of single-crystal silicon creep behavior presented in this paper was initiated in support of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Micro-engine Project. The objective of this project is to develop the technology to design and manufacture a micro-gas turbine generator, 20 mm in diameter, by 4 mm in axial length. To optimize the design of the micro-engine and to determine its useful life, accurate creep characterization of silicon is necessary. Creep properties for single-crystal silicon have previously been investigated in several studies, but not in the stress and temperature combinations relevant to the micro-engine (100--200 MPa and 600--750 C respectively). Therefore, the present study was initiated to obtain creep data in order to support preliminary design and lifetime estimation. A more complete description of the experimental procedures and analysis is available elsewhere.
Schottky-Like Correction Terms in Heterojunction Band Lineups

Thin Al intralayers induce changes in the valence-band discontinuities for the Ge/ZnSe(110) and the Ge/CdS(101\ifmmode\bar\else\textasciimacron\fi{}0) heterojunctions, but not for the Si/GaP(110) heterojunction. We studied the dependence of the changes on the intralayer thickness, and their correlation to the local chemical reactions. The changes saturate for intralayers thicknesses \ensuremath{\sim}(1/2 monolayer. For these thin intralayers, the Al is highly reacted with the anion of the compound semiconductor. The results indicate that the band lineup at heterojunction interfaces is affected by a Schottky-like term, as recently suggested by several theories. However, they also show that such a term does not imply the formation of a metallic Al phase.
Hydrocolpos in cloacal malformations.

Abstract Introduction Hydrocolpos is a condition rarely mentioned in the literature. The purpose of this report is to increase the index of suspicion for hydrocolpos in patients with cloaca and to describe our approach for its treatment with the hope that errors in the management of hydrocolpos can be avoided. Methods We reviewed 411 medical records of patients diagnosed with cloaca and managed at our Center during the last 26 years. Emphasis was placed on evaluating for the presence of hydrocolpos, type of drainage, and complications related to the persistence of the hydrocolpos. Results One hundred seventeen cloaca patients had an associated hydrocolpos (28.4%). Forty-two cases (36%) were initially managed at other institutions at which the hydrocolpos was not drained. Complications experienced by this group included: multiple urinary tract infections (8), hydrocolpos infection (7), sepsis (7), failure to thrive (6), ruptured hydrocolpos (4), and development of hydronephrosis in previously normal kidneys (2). Forty-one patients (35%) had other modalities of treatment, aimed to drain the hydrocolpos, including vesicostomy (26), intermittent perineal catheterization (8), single aspiration (6), or plasty of the perineal orifice (1). In all of these cases, the hydrocolpos persisted or reaccumulated. Thirty-four patients (29%) underwent an effective drainage of the hydrocolpos at birth; 29 at other institutions, 15 with a tube vaginostomy, 13 with a tubeless vaginostomy, and 1 with a catheter placed and left in the vagina through cystoscopy. Five cases had a tube vaginostomy done by us. In all these cases, the vagina remained adequately drained as demonstrated radiologically. Proper drainage of the hydrocolpos alone, with no urologic intervention, dramatically improved the hydronephrosis in 13 cases. Conclusions Hydrocolpos in patients with cloacas must be diagnosed and treated early in life. Our preferred approach is a transabdominal indwelling vaginostomy tube. The drainage of the hydrocolpos alone may dramatically improve the hydronephrosis, and therefore, we suggest that only after the hydrocolpos is drained should a urological intervention be contemplated. Failure to drain the hydrocolpos can result in serious complications.
Inhibition of gastric acid secretion by immunoneutralization of endogenous brain thyrotropin-releasing hormone.

Previous studies have shown that intracisternal (i.c.), but not intravenous administration of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), an endogenous tripeptide (pGlu-His-Pro-NH2), produces a time-, dose-dependent and vagus-mediated stimulation of acid secretion in rats. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that endogenous brain TRH plays a role in regulation of acid secretion in the pylorus-ligation model. In confirmation of previous reports, i.c. TRH (1 μg) significantly (P < 0.01) stimulated gastric acid output, gastric secretory volume and decreased gastric intraluminal pH. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion of TRH antiserum (anti-TRH) 30 min prior to pyloric occlusion significantly reduced acid output, secretory volume and raised gastric pH. This inhibitory gastric acid secretory response to i.c.v. anti-TRH appears to be specific since i.c.v. infusion of normal rabbit serum or antisera raised against neurotensin (NT), Leu-enkephalin (L-enk), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), somatostatin (SRIF) and α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) were without measurable effect. The findings of this study indicate that endogenous brain TRH, but not NT, L-enk, GnRH, SRIF or α-MSH plays a physiological role in regulation of acid secretion.
The Effect of the Torsional Barrier Height on the Acceleration of Intramolecular Vibrational Relaxation (IVR) by Molecular Flexibility

Previous work by the present authors (Can. J. Chem. 72, 652 (1994)) pointed out the acceleration of IVR in flexible molecules when the prepared vibration is close to the centre of flexibility (COF). A COF was defined as a bond about which hindered internal rotation can occur thereby giving rise to molecular flexibility. Here, it is shown that the rate of IVR is inversely correlated with the height of the barrier to internal rotation for systems in which the prepared vibration is adjacent to the COF. In ethanol and hydrogen peroxide the barriers are low ( 380 cm −1 ) and the relaxation of the adjacent O-H vibration is fast (4 to 26 ps). On the other hand, higher barrier torsions (1100 to 1700 cm −1 ) adjacent to the chromophore in 1-butyne, 2-fluoroethanol, and 1,2-difluoroethane give rise to much longer IVR lifetimes (270 to 565 ps). Most of the IVR lifetimes used in this paper were derived from discretely resolved spectra in which a bright state transition is fragmented into a clump of molecular eigenstates; the remainder are from rotationally selected double resonance spectra. An algorithm is described for the derivation of consistent IVR lifetimes for coupling cases ranging from intermediate down to the very sparse limit where only a few perturbing states are explicitly observed in the spectrum
Modular assembly/packaging of multi-substrate microsystems (WIMS Cube) using thermo-magnetically actuated cables

The authors report a packaging/assembly approach for wireless integrated microsystems (WIMS) using flexible thermo-magnetically actuated cables. In this assembly approach, substrates of a microsystem are stacked on top of one another inside a cube (WIMS cube). Electrical/fluidic signals are transferred between system dice using rows of integrated flexible parylene cables attached to cube walls, and actuated, row-by-row during assembly, to make pressure contacts to each die. Actuation of these cables is achieved using thermo-magnetic actuation; resistively generated heat softens up the parylene cable, and magnetic actuation plastically deforms the soft cable. Cubes with integrated parylene cables have been fabricated. Thermo-magnetically actuated 1mm /spl times/ 1.3mm cables have been shown to deflect /spl sim/800/spl mu/m with two stable positions in a 0.1T magnetic field at a /spl sim/90/spl deg/C temperature achieved by resistive heating.
Modeling the ionospheric response to the 28 October 2003 solar flare due to coupling with the thermosphere

[1] The excess energy deposited into the atmosphere during a solar flare has a substantial effect on the thermosphere and ionosphere. Not only is there a significant perturbation on the dayside, but gravity waves are launched which can propagate to and effect the nightside. The ionospheric signatures of these waves and global disturbances are investigated using the Global Ionosphere-Thermosphere Model during the 28 October 2003 solar flare. Simulations are performed where all external forcings are held constant except for the solar extreme ultraviolet flux in order to quantify the response due only to the flare. The model shows that significant perturbations in NmF2 and total electron content can occur on the nightside, and that they can last for more than 15 h after the flare. Both significant enhancements and depletions are shown to be present in the near-midnight sector which are due to dynamical changes in the neutral atmosphere.
The rasH2 Mouse Model for Assessing Carcinogenic Potential of Pharmaceuticals

A factor limiting widespread use of the transgenic rasH2 mouse model for carcinogenicity testing of pharmaceuticals is the paucity of published data on actual drug candidates in rasH2 mice. This report addresses this gap by highlighting rasH2 mouse study data for 10 pharmaceutical candidates. These results were compared with findings in the 2-year studies in Sprague-Dawley rats for the same 10 compounds. In the 6-month rasH2 studies, only 2 of the 10 compounds tested positive for carcinogenicity and these correlated with positive findings in the companion 2-year rat studies. One compound, sunitinib, produced gastroduodenal carcinoma in both sexes and increased hemangiosarcoma in spleen and uterus in female rasH2 mice; in rats it produced gastroduodenal carcinoma and increased pheochromocytoma (males only). The second compound, bazedoxifene, produced ovarian granulosa cell neoplasms in rasH2 mice and rats, and renal tubular neoplasms associated with increased chronic progressive nephropathy only in rats. The higher percentage of carcinogenicity positive rat bioassays could be attributed to rat-specific phenomena with little or low relevance to man. Thus, this article confirms previous reports that rasH2 mice develop rodent-specific neoplasms less frequently than rats and positive findings, when present, are accompanied by similar positive results in the rat.
Estimating Poly(1-Alkene) Properties from Oligomer and Repeat Unit Dimensions

The first of the two methods used in the present work to estimate polyolefin properties consisted in using oligomer (n-alkane) properties to calculate limiting properties (P∞, properties of an infinite-length n-alkane); such limiting properties resemble the corresponding properties of amorphous, linear polyethylene (or amorphous polymethylene, APM).
Subwavelength Optical Elements and Nanoimprint Technology for Optical MEMS/NMES

This paper presents examples in SOEs and NIL. It shows how to change the optical function of SOEs by changing the geometries of the sub-wavelength feature, while keeping the materials the same (e.g. Si): changing from waveplates to filters (e.g. photonic crystals), antireflection surfaces, polarizers, beam splitters, and to lenses. It also shows that each of the above functions has been achieved with a layer thickness less than one micron. This paper presents examples on the SOE integration of themselves or with other optical devices to achieve unique or better function and/or performances. The examples include a new compact circular polarizer that combines a SOE quarter-waveplate and a SOE polarizer, a single mode laser with its mode locked by a SOE filter (photonic crystal), the lasers with tunable frequencies or polarizations; a very high-frequency optical clock, and all optical switching
MOLECULAR PATHOGENESIS OF TRANSPLACENTALLY INDUCED MOUSE LUNG TUMORS

Previous studies from this and other laboratories have shown that treatment of pregnant mice with 3-methylcholanthrene (MC) caused lung tumors in the offspring, the incidence of which correlated with fetal inducibility of Cyplal. Analysis of paraffin-embedded lung tissue for Ki-ras-2 mutations indicated that 79% of the lesions examined contained point mutations in codons 12 and 13 of the Ki-ras-2 gene locus, the majority of which (84%) were G → T transversions. The mutational spectrum was dependent on the tumor stage, as both the incidence of mutation and type of mutation produced correlated with malignant progression of the tumor. Mutations occurred in 60% of the hyperplasias, 80% of the adenomas, and 100% of the adenocarcinomas. In the tumors with mutations, GLY12 → CYS12 transversions occurred in 100% of the hyperplasias, 42% of the adenomas, and 14% of the adenocarcinomas. GLY12 → VAL12 transversions were not observed in hyperplasias and occurred in 42% of the adenomas and 57% of the adenocarcinomas. ...
Effects of Lipids on Cancer Therapy

The fatty acid composition of cancer cell membranes can change substantially when the cells are exposed to different types of fat. Such change occurs when tumors are grown in animals fed high-fat diets that differ in degree of unsaturation or during culture in media supplemented with various fatty acids. Certain physical and functional properties of the membrane are modified when the polyunsaturated fatty acid content is increased, and the cells become more sensitive to hyperthermia or treatment with doxorubicin. These findings suggest a potential role for lipid nutrition in cancer therapy. By altering the properties of the membrane lipids, changes in the dietary fat intake may provide a new approach for enhancing the effectiveness of certain antineoplastic therapies.