cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of GLP-1 and Its Analogs on Gastric Physiology in Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity.

The processing of proglucagon in intestinal L cells results in the formation of glucagon, GLP-1, and GLP-2. The GLP-1 molecule becomes active through the effect of proconvertase 1, and it is inactivated by dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), so that the half-life of endogenous GLP-1 is 2–3 min. GLP-1 stimulates insulin secretion from β cells in the islets of Langerhans. Human studies show that infusion of GLP-1 results in slowing of gastric emptying and increased fasting and postprandial gastric volumes. Retardation of gastric emptying reduces postprandial glycemia. Exendin-4 is a peptide agonist of the GLP-1 receptor that promotes insulin secretion. Chemical modifications of exendin-4 and GLP-1 molecules have been accomplished to prolong the half-life of GLP-1 agonists or analogs. This chapter reviews the effects of GLP-1-related drugs used in treatment of diabetes or obesity on gastric motor functions, chiefly gastric emptying. The literature shows that diverse methods have been used to measure effects of the GLP-1-related drugs on gastric emptying, with most studies using the acetaminophen absorption test which essentially measures gastric emptying of liquids during the first hour and capacity to absorb the drug over 4–6 h, expressed as AUC. The most valid measurements by scintigraphy (solids or liquids) and acetaminophen absorption at 30 or 60 min show that GLP-1-related drugs used in diabetes or obesity retard gastric emptying, and this is associated with reduced glycemia and variable effects on food intake and appetite. GLP-1 agonists and analogs are integral to the management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. The effects on gastric emptying are reduced with long-acting preparations or long-term use of short-acting preparations as a result of tachyphylaxis. The dual agonists targeting GLP-1 and another receptor (GIP) do not retard gastric emptying, based on reports to date. In summary, GLP-1 agonists and analogs are integral to the management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity, and their effects are mediated, at least in part, by retardation of gastric emptying.
4.11 – Paint Formulation

The formulation of corrosion protective coatings is a complex materials challenge involving many design variables. The optimization of such a problem requires proper understanding of the interactions of the materials in the coating. The challenge is further complicated by the requirements of a film application process and the process of film formation. This chapter treats the design process for corrosion protective coatings, describing the process by which coating formulation is developed. The modes of corrosion protection by coatings are described and how each of these models can be achieved in a coating system. A brief overview of the major material components by material class is given, and the manner in which the individual materials are used in coatings is described. An emphasis of the section on coatings design is the use of coating pigment volume concentration effects as a key design parameter. Using the critical PVC (CPVC) as a break point between porous and nonporous coatings as well as the point of all pigment particles in a coating being connected provides considerable design information for the formulation of corrosion protective primers. A logical scheme for the scientific design of such primers is presented along with an extensive bibliography of supporting literature.
Probation Officer Assessments of Risk when the Youth Look Different: Contributions of Structured Professional Judgment to Concerns About Racial Bias:

Various groups have expressed considerable concern about the potential for actuarial risk assessments to exacerbate racial disparities in justice settings. This study examined that potential when u...
The impact of acne treatment on quality of life and self-esteem: A prospective cohort study from Lebanon.

Abstract Background Acne is highly prevalent among teenagers and young adults, with proven negative psychological and emotional impact. To our knowledge, no study has been conducted to quantify the repercussions of acne on quality of life (QoL) and self-esteem in Lebanon. Objective This study aimed to highlight the effect of acne treatment on QoL and self-esteem of Lebanese adolescents and young adults. Methods In this observational prospective study, patients between 15 and 40 years old with moderate-to-severe acne were allocated to one of two treatment groups (isotretinoin vs. systemic antibiotics combined with topical treatments) and followed for a period of 6 months. The effect of acne on QoL was measured using the Dermatology Life Quality Index, Cardiff Acne Disability Index, and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale before treatment initiation (T1), after 3 months (T2), and after 6 months (T3). A multivariate analysis of covariance model was used. Results Sixty-two patients were included, of whom 79% were female and 61.3% had moderate acne. Fifty-five percent of patients were treated with systemic antibiotics combined with topical treatments, and 45% received isotretinoin. Mean scores of Cardiff Acne Disability Index, Dermatology Life Quality Index, and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale at T1 were comparable between the two groups. A significant improvement was noticed in both groups at T2 and T3. The multivariate analysis of covariance model showed an interaction of time and age that concerned 25- to 40-year-old patients in both groups, who were the most negatively affected by acne at T1 and improved the most at T3. Conclusion This study demonstrated the equivalence between acne treatments in improving QoL and revealed the social obstacle that acne creates and its recrudescence in the subgroup of women of childbearing age.
An experimental and modeling study of ammonia pyrolysis

Abstract Ammonia (NH3) is a promising carbon-free fuel and a hydrogen carrier. In recent years, there has been a large number of experimental and numerical studies to understand the chemical kinetics of NH3 in moderate to extremely complex systems. This study focused on understanding the chemical kinetics of NH3 in a simple system (pyrolysis). Shock-tube experiments were performed to monitor the NH3 time history profiles during pyrolysis, with and without the presence of H2, using a new laser absorption diagnostic near 10.4 µm. The pyrolysis experiments were conducted for mixtures of ∼ 0.5% NH3/Ar and ∼ 0.42% NH3/2% H2/Ar behind reflected shock waves, near atmospheric pressure, and over a temperature range of 2100–3000 K. Using the data from the present study as a guide, along with NH3 pyrolysis data from the literature, a detailed chemical kinetics mechanism for NH3 pyrolysis is proposed herein. This mechanism was assembled using available reaction rate constants from the literature. The mechanism showed excellent agreement with the experimental results, as well as with the literature data. Additionally, an assessment of 15 detailed NH3 chemical kinetics mechanisms on their capabilities of predicting the new pyrolysis experiments was performed. The assessment showed that these literature mechanisms yield significantly different predictions, with only one model producing acceptable results for the majority of the NH3 pyrolysis experiments. The effect of pyrolysis reactions on the prediction of oxidation data was investigated by updating the pyrolysis sub-mechanism of selected literature models with the reactions of the present pyrolysis model. The prediction of the updated literature models significantly improved for ignition delay time and flame speed literature data, indicating the importance of pyrolysis reactions for high-temperature oxidation chemistry.
The Effects of Time on the Stability of the Determinants of Intention

An investigation of the stability over a three month period of the rejative importance of the attitudinal and normatlvl’ components of Fishbein’s intention model showed a certain amount of instability. However, the changes in marketing strategy as a result of this instability were few.
Exploring the Construct of Convenience

Four focus groups, based on occupational status of the household, were conducted to explore the hypothesized multidimensional nature of the construct of convenience in marketing. Results support previously proposed dimensions and suggest further refinements to those dimensions. Results also suggest that the importance of the dimensions may vary across consumer groups.
Spermatic Cord Torsion: Effects of Cyclosporine and Prednisone on Fertility and the Contralateral Testis in the Rat

Unilateral spermatic cord torsion results in contralateral degeneration and reduced fertility in the prepubertal male rat. This study was conducted to investigate the use of immunosuppression with cyclosporine and prednisone to prevent these untoward effects. Thirty-five-day-old male rats were subjected to 720 degrees unilateral spermatic cord torsion of 9 hours duration. At the time of detorsion, animals were given a subcutaneous injection of i) cyclosporine, ii) prednisone, or iii) cyclosporine combined with prednisone. Control groups included: i) animals undergoing orchiectomy of the ipsilateral testis following the torsion period, ii) hemicastration in the absence of torsion and iii) sham surgery. Orchiectomy at the end of the torsion period prevented the torsion induced reduction of fertility, contralateral seminiferous tubule diameter and testis weight. Treatment with cyclosporine combined with prednisone significantly increased these parameters above detorsion alone. These data indicate that short term immunosuppression with cyclosporine alone or in combination with prednisone limits the adverse effects of unilateral spermatic cord torsion as does removal of the damaged organ at the end of the torsion period.
Countering Hostile Forensic Techniques

Digital forensic investigations can be subverted by hostile forensic techniques and tools. This paper examines various hostile forensic techniques, including the exploitation of vulnerabilities in standard forensic procedures and denial of service attacks on forensic tools during imaging and analysis. Several techniques for concealing evidence within file systems and external to file systems are highlighted. In addition, strategies for countering hostile forensic techniques and tools are discussed.
Integration of multi-source spatial information for coastal management and decision making

This paper presents the second-year outcomes of our Digital Government project "Digitalization of Coastal Management and Decision Making Supported by Multi-Dimensional Geospatial Information and Analysis". One of the primary objectives of the second year is to develop and integrate multiple spaceborne, airborne, and in-situ remotely sensed measurements, spatio-temporal databases, coastal hydrological modeling, and geospatial information analysis for coastal management and decision making. The developed coastal management and decision-making system includes applications for coastal mapping and change detection, water surface modeling and analysis, on-site coastal management and decision-making, and web-based spatial data manipulation. Studies have also been conducted on uncertainties in the used coastal spatial data. The above system has been tested at a pilot site along Ohio's Lake Erie shore and is to be applied to a new test site in Tampa Bay, Florida.
Phase Transitions in Self-Driven Many-Particle Systems and Related Non-Equilibrium Models: A Network Approach

We investigate the conditions that produce a phase transition from an ordered to a disordered state in a family of models of two-dimensional elements with a ferromagnetic-like interaction. This family is defined to contain under the same framework, among others, the XY-model and the Self-Driven Particles Model introduced by Vicsek et al. Each model is distinguished only by the rules that determine the set of elements with which each element interacts. We propose a new member of the family: the vectorial network model, in which a given fraction of the elements interact through direct random connections. This model is analogous to an XY-system on a network, and as such can be of interest for a wide range of problems. It captures the main aspects of the interaction dynamics that produce the phase transition in other models of the family. The network approach allows us to show analytically the existence of a phase transition in this vectorial network model, and to compute its relevant parameters for the case in which all elements are randomly connected. Finally we study numerically the conditions required for a phase transition to exist for different members of the family. Our results show that a qualitatively equivalent phase transition appears whenever even a small amount of long-range interactions are present (or built over time), regardless of other equilibrium or non-equilibrium properties of the system.
Correcting first‐order errors in snow water equivalent estimates using a multifrequency, multiscale radiometric data assimilation scheme

A season-long, multiscale, multifrequency radiometric data assimilation experiment is performed to test the feasibility of snow water equivalent (SWE) estimation. Synthetic passive microwave (PM) observations at Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-Earth Observing System frequencies and 25 km resolution and synthetic near infrared (NIR) narrowband albedo observations corresponding to Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer band 5 (1230–1250 μm) and 1 km resolution are assimilated into a land surface model snow scheme using the ensemble Kalman filter. First-order sources of model uncertainty, including error in precipitation quantity, grain size evolution, precipitation spatial distribution, and vegetation leaf area index are modeled. SWE remote sensing retrieval schemes would be of limited value for these scenarios where snow depth ranged between 1.0 and 2.0 m, grain size varied in space, significant vegetation was present, and the snowpack sometimes contained liquid water. Nevertheless, the true basinwide SWE is recovered, in general, within a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of approximately 2 cm. Synergy is observed between the PM and NIR measurements because of the complementary nature of the multiscale, multifrequency measurements. Results from the assimilation are compared to those from a pure modeling approach and from a remote sensing retrieval approach. The effects of model uncertainty, measurement error, and ensemble size are investigated.
COPLINK: visualization for crime analysis DEMO

We have applied various visualization techniques in the law enforcement domain, specifically to assist in crime analysis. These techniques include a hierarchical list, a hyperbolic tree, a time line tool, a periodic pattern tool, a GIS tool and a self-organizing map. We have integrated some of these techniques into a single synchronized tool (the Spatio-Temporal Visualizer shown in Fig. 1), which is flexible and scalable in order to allow for the incorporation of other visualization techniques in the future. The main strength of our visualization tools is the fact that they are incorporated into a single tool from which a crime analyst or detective can view the same data set in different ways. A change in one tool is automatically reflected in the other tools. For details on the various visualization techniques we have applied in the law enforcement domain and are incorporating within our ongoing COPLINK project, please refer to the accompanying paper in these proceedings, by the same title and authors. The demonstration will focus on the practical application of these tools in law enforcement. Detective Tim Petersen of the Tucson Police Department will demonstrate how these tools can be used in hypothetical examples of crime analysis cases.
Synchrotron and Synchrotron Self-Compton Emission and the Blast-Wave Model of Gamma-Ray Bursts

We investigate the dynamics and radiation from a relativistic blast wave that decelerates as it sweeps up ambient matter. The bulk kinetic energy of the blast-wave shell is converted into internal energy by the process of accreting external matter. If it takes the form of nonthermal electrons and magnetic fields, then this internal energy will be emitted as synchrotron and synchrotron self-Compton radiation. We perform analytic and numerical calculations for the deceleration and radiative processes and present time-resolved spectra throughout the evolution of the blast wave. We also examine the dependence of the burst spectra and light curves on various parameters describing the magnetic field and nonthermal electron distributions. We find that for bursts such as GRB 910503, GRB 910601, and GRB 910814, the spectral shapes of the prompt gamma-ray emission at the peaks in νFν strongly constrain the magnetic fields in these bursts to be well below (10-2) the equipartition values. These calculations are also considered in the context of the afterglow emission from the recently detected gamma-ray burst counterparts.
QUANTITATIVE SHIFTS IN ORB-WEB INVESTMENT DURING DEVELOPMENT IN NEPHILA CLAVIPES (ARANEAE, NEPHILIDAE)

Abstract When there are direct conflicts in resource allocation to foraging effort versus growth and development, the relative allocation to foraging may change in a predictable manner with development. Orb-webs provide a physical record of resource allocation to foraging, and their synthesis requires the investment of physiologically important resources. Spiders in strongly seasonal habitats must complete development prior to the end of the season, and may be expected to alter foraging effort to maximize the probability of successful reproduction. Comparison of populations of the orb-weaving spider Nephila clavipes (Araneae, Nephilidae) in very seasonal versus less seasonal habitats allows testing for changes in allocation of resources to foraging effort during development. Orb-web size increases with increasing spider size, with little variation in slope among populations. However, in univoltine populations inhabiting strongly seasonal habitats, the size of the orb web is not a simple function of spider...
Berkeley Supernova Ia Program – IV. Carbon detection in early-time optical spectra of Type Ia supernovae

While O is often seen in spectra of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) as both unburned fuel and a product of C burning, C is only occasionally seen at the earliest times and represents the most direct way of investigating primordial white dwarf material and its relation to SN Ia explosion scenarios and mechanisms. In this paper, we search for C absorption features in 188 optical spectra of 144 low-redshift (z < 0.1) SNe Ia with ages ≲3.6 d after maximum brightness. These data were obtained as part of the Berkeley Supernova Ia Program (BSNIP) and represent the largest set of SNe Ia in which C has ever been searched. We find that ∼11 per cent of the SNe studied show definite C absorption features, while ∼25 per cent show some evidence for C ii in their spectra. Also, if one obtains a spectrum at ≲ -5 d, then there is a better than 30 per cent chance of detecting a distinct absorption feature from C ii. SNe Ia that show C are found to resemble those without C in many respects, but objects with C tend to have bluer optical colours than those without C. The typical expansion velocity of the C ii λ6580 feature is measured to be 12 000–13 000 km s−1, and the ratio of the C ii λ6580 to Si ii λ6355 velocities is remarkably constant with time and among different objects with a median value of ∼1.05. While the pseudo-equivalent widths (pEWs) of the C ii λλ6580 and 7234 features are found mostly to decrease with time, we see evidence of a significant increase in pEW between ∼12 and 11 d before maximum brightness, which is actually predicted by some theoretical models. The range of pEWs measured from the BSNIP data implies a range of C masses in SN Ia ejecta of about (2–30) × 10−3 M⊙.
X-Ray Scattering in Analysis of Polymers

It has been proved that X-rays play a very important role in the characterization of polymers. A wealth of information concerning polymer structures and morphologies are accessible by using X-ray techniques. X-ray studies in the polymer area are based on the same principle as that in studies of other materials. The present review attempts to give a short summary of the roles that X-rays play in modern polymer science. The first three sections provide a brief introduction about the origin of X-rays, the principle of the interaction of X-rays and matter, and X-ray diffraction. Section 4 briefly describes X-ray instrumentation. In section 5, crystal unit cell and structural determination methods are discussed. The focus is on the use of uniaxially oriented polymers, as this is the most commonly used method for determination of polymer crystal structures. Crystallinity is another issue, which is specifically important to semicrystalline polymers. A short summary of the concept of crystallinity and its determination based on X-ray diffraction is discussed. Polymer liquid crystals are a new field which has been growing rapidly since the late 1970s. X-rays have again played an important role in liquid crystal phase determination. By combination of X-ray techniques with other structure and thermal property measurements, almost every polymer liquid crystal phase can be identified. Section 6 discusses the small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) technique. The cause of X-ray scattering in the small-angle region in most polymers is due to the heterogeneous electron density distribution over distances that are large in comparison with the wavelength of the X-ray (5–100 nm). SAXS is a powerful tool in semicrystalline morphology and block copolymer phase-morphology studies. In the thin film field, X-ray diffraction at small angles is also useful in determining the film thickness and interface structure.
Active Target detectors for studies with exotic beams: Present and next future

Abstract Reaccelerated radioactive beams near the Coulomb barrier, which are starting to be available from the ReA3 accelerator at NSCL and in next future at FRIB, will open up new opportunities for the study of nuclear structure near the drip lines. Efficient measurement techniques must be developed to compensate for the limited intensity of the most exotic beams. The Active-Target Time Projection Chamber (AT-TPC) constructed at MSU solves this problem by providing the increased luminosity of a thick target while maintaining a good energy resolution by tracking the reaction vertex over an essentially 4 π solid angle. The AT-TPC and similar detectors allow us to take full advantage of the radioactive ion beams at present and future nuclear physics facilities to explore the frontier of rare isotopes.
Rethinking the Politics of Fit and Educational Leadership

This theoretical analysis employs a poststructuralist lens to reveal the constructs behind the word fit, an oft used descriptor integral to the discourse of school hiring practices, personnel decisions, and politics. Although the term is a part of the everyday culture of school politics, it is rarely considered with any depth. Using the metaphor of a mechanical watch, the authors explain how two theories and a sociopolitical concept (identity theory, social constructionism, and hegemony) conflate the role and responsibilities of leadership with the frameworks of one’s identity. Thus, fit is used to perpetuate hegemony and the social construction of what a school leader is. The authors cite empirical examples of how some leaders negotiate their fit and how some leaders are able to transcend the boundaries of tolerance to recreate the definition of “the best fit for the job.” Finally, they outline the implications of the politics behind the word fit, along considerations for those who prepare school leaders, those who are serving as schools leaders, and those policy makers who govern school leaders.
Income Elasticities at different price vectors

Abstract Cross-country data are used to evaluate the income elasticities of the demand for ten broad groups of goods at two different price vectors: the observed prices of separate countries and the geometric means of these prices across all countries. The major effect is on the income elasticity of the demand for food; using observed rather than geometric mean prices results in lower elasticity values for the more affluent countries.
Hyperinduction of enzymes of the phosphorylative pathway of glucose dissimilation inPseudomonas cepacia

Glucose-dehydrogenase-deficient (Gcd−) strains ofPseudomonas cepacia 249 compensated for loss of operation of the direct oxidative pathway by expanding the phosphorylative pathway. When grown on glucose, they had between two- and fourfold higher than normal levels of glucokinase and NAD-linked glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and a comparable increase in capacity to transport glucose. Similar expansion of the phosphorylative pathway was noted when the wild type was grown on cellobiose or trehalose. Gcd− strains grew normally on cellobiose and trehalose, but not if also deficient in glucokinase; this indicates that the disaccharides were converted to glucose and metabolized via the phosphorylative pathway. The expansion of the phosphorylative pathway during growth of the wild type on disaccharides or of Gcd− mutants on glucose was a consequence of hyperinduction of pathway enzymes. Other compounds that promoted such hyperinduction included aromatic conjugates of glucose such as arbutin and salicin, and mannose. Under conditions leading to expansion of the phosphorylative pathway, enzymes related to the direct oxidative pathway, such as gluconate dehydrogenase and the 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase active with NAD, were not formed. The results indicate that intracellular glucose and extracellular glucose are metabolized to 6-phosphogluconate via different routes.
Palladium dichloride catalyzed cope rearrangements of functionalized acyclic 1,5-dienes☆

Abstract The Cope rearrangement of acyclic 1,5-dienes having an electron-withdrawing group at carbon-3 and an alkyl substituent at carbon-2 is effectively catalyzed by palladium dichloride. This reaction can be employed to achieve clean γ-allylation of vinyl esters and acids.
An Automatic Recording Device for the Time of Oviposition in Hens

Abstract ALTHOUGH an earlier paper by Weiss and Sturkie (1952) described in detail the construction and operation of an apparatus for recording the time of oviposition in hens, a somewhat different method has been in use by us for nearly four years. Both methods possess certain advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different experimental requirements. One basic difference between the two systems resides in the number of recording styluses involved. In Weiss and Sturkie’s method, the number of recording styluses is equal to the number of hens whose lay is to be recorded and the kymograph drum rotates continuously at the rate of one revolution per day. In our method only one recording stylus is used regardless of the number of hens whose lay is to be recorded. The drum rotates intermittantly making one revolution every 15 minutes and an auxiliary apparatus is employed to lower the signal magnet so …
Low-Threshold Two-Photon Pumped ZnO Nanowire Lasers

We report in this communication the two-photon absorption (TPA)-induced room-temperature lasing performance of ZnO nanowires. Under femtosecond pulse-excitation at lambda = 700 nm in the infrared regime, a remarkably low threshold of 160 microJ/cm(2) was observed for the TPA-induced lasing action, which is of the same order of magnitude as that measured for the linear lasing process. Time-resolved photoluminescence characterization of two-photon pumped ZnO nanowires reveals the presence of a fast decay (3-4 ps) in the stimulated emission as compared to the slow decay (50-70 ps) for the spontaneous emission. The TPA process in ZnO nanowires was characterized with the nonlinear transmission measurement, which uncovers an enhanced TPA coefficient, about 14.7 times larger than that of bulk ZnO samples. The observed TPA enhancement in ZnO nanowires accounts for the low threshold lasing behavior, and has been attributed to the intensified optical field confined within the nanowire waveguides.
Molecular beam studies of the dynamics of activated adsorption of N2 on W(110): Dissociation threshold and new binding states

Abstract The activated adsorption of N 2 on W(110) was studied using molecular beams to achieve translational energies from 2 to 30 kcal/gmol. The beams were formed in nozzles with and without helium seeding. For the lowest beam kinetic energy the probability of dissociation upon collision was about 3 × 10 −3 , increasing to 3 × 10 −1 at energies above 20 kcal/gmol. The dependence of the dissociation probability on nitrogen coverage suggested the process was direct in nature, not trapping dominated. The results show that the adsorption is translationally activated and that the reactive collision is not adequately described by a single one-dimensional barrier. As the beam energy was increased, the apparent saturation coverage by nitrogen increased, producing an unusual desorption state above a nitrogen atom coverage of 0.25. Nitrogen desorbed autocatalytically from this state in a fashion observed previously for high concentration of oxygen from Pt(100). The emergence of this state at higher surface coverages indicates that the state of nitrogen adsorbed on tungsten and other metals at higher pressures may be quite different from the state normally observed in low pressure studies.
Real-Time Data Compression in Wireless Sensor Networks

Wireless sensor networks possess significant limitations in storage, bandwidth, and power. Additionally, real-time sensor networks cannot tolerate high latency. While some good compression algorithms exist specific to sensor networks, there remains a need for methods that do not introduce additional latency. This paper introduces a compression scheme which reduces storage, bandwidth, and power while also minimizing latency. Our Huffman style compression scheme exploits temporal locality and delta compression to provide better bandwidth utilization, thus reducing latency for real time applications.
Retinal disease expression in Bardet-Biedl syndrome-1 (BBS1) is a spectrum from maculopathy to retina-wide degeneration.

Purpose To define the retinal phenotype in patients with the Bardet-Biedl syndrome and mutations in the BBS1 gene. Methods Ten patients (age range, 16-48 years), representing eight pedigrees, with BBS1 gene mutations were studied clinically and with kinetic perimetry, chromatic static perimetry, electroretinography (ERG), and optical coherence tomography. Results Of the 10 patients, 8 were M390R homozygotes and 2 were compound heterozygotes with one allele also M390R. A spectrum of retinal disease expression was present. The mildest disease was a subtle maculopathy with relatively limited peripheral retinal dysfunction. Moderate disease showed retina-wide rod > cone dysfunction, and often there was a negative ERG waveform. More severe disease expression had different patterns: either loss of central function but retained abnormal peripheral function or a retained small central island of impaired function only. Moderate and severe disease showed loss of retinal and photoreceptor layer thickness across wide expanses of retina. Severity differed in family members and was independent of age. In addition, severity was not explained by genotype at a recently reported BBS epistatic gene, MGC1203. Conclusions The cardinal feature of retinal degeneration in BBS1 can show a wide spectrum of disease expression.
Using multiple genetic operators to reduce premature convergence in genetic assembly planning

Recent research reports describe efforts to create automated assembly sequence planners, which will help design and manufacturing engineers analyze increasingly complex and customized products and the dynamic conditions found in modern computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) systems.Early assembly planners that use graph searching techniques can generally find global-optimal assembly plans for a product, but tend to have long run-times. More recent assembly planners that use genetic algorithms can generally find high-quality solutions quickly, but tend to converge prematurely at local-optimal solutions. The author introduces two new genetic operators to help reduce premature convergence in genetic assembly planners.The results bring automated assembly planning and fully flexible computer integrated manufacturing systems closer to real-world application.
Returns from Redeveloping Brownfields: Preliminary Estimates

Redeveloping brownfields is achieving more recognition as a strategy in local community development projects, but relatively little is documented about the financial benefits obtained from public investments in these projects. This article examines 51 brownfield redevelopment projects in Illinois cities and estimates the financial returns to city and state investment. Dividing the projects into categories of industrial/commercial and recreational uses, the authors present innovative practices and factors that affect successful outcomes based on case studies with local officials and community developers. The results of the analyses suggest that cities often recover many times more than their initial investment and, at the same time, address other local issues.
Heart Failure and Death After Myocardial Infarction in the Community The Emerging Role of Mitral Regurgitation

Background— In case series, mitral regurgitation (MR) increased the risk of death after myocardial infarction (MI), yet the prevalence of MR, its incremental prognostic value over ejection fraction (EF), and its association with heart failure and death after MI in the community is not known. Methods and Results— The prevalence of MR and its association with heart failure and death were examined among 1331 patients within a geographically defined MI incidence cohort between 1988 and 1998. Echocardiography was performed within 30 days after MI in 773 patients (58%), and MR was present in 50% of cases, mild in 38%, and moderate or severe in 12%. Among patients with MR, a murmur was inconsistently detected clinically. After 4.7±3.3 years of follow-up, 109 episodes of heart failure and 335 deaths occurred. There was a graded positive association between the presence and severity of MR and heart failure or death. Moderate or severe MR was associated with a large increase in the risk of heart failure (relative r...
Masking procedure, randomization and stratification, and compliance monitoring in the Growth Failure in Children with Renal Diseases Study.

Summary Ensuring the integrity of a study such as the GFRD Study requires close cooperation among all groups involved with the study and the patient. Many factors may influence the outcome and validity of a multicenter, double-masked, randomized trial. Any dosage modifications that may need to be made rely totally on established communication between the centers, the DCC, and the Core Pharmacy. When the procedures outlined above are followed, masking is ensured and patient compliance can be measured.
Determination of the SiAl and NaAl ratios of two specimens of zeolite A by proton inelastic scattering

Abstract The silicon/aluminum and sodium/aluminum ratios of two bulk samples of zeolite A were measured by the nondestructive technique of proton inelastic scattering using two NBS standard reference materials. For the first sample of single crystals made by the Charnell method (Mobil Corp.), the measured atomic ratio of Si Al = 1.04 ± 0.01 agrees with values from electron microprobe analysis (1.03), X-ray diffraction intensities (>1.00), and magic-angle-spinning nuclear magnetic resonance of 29Si (1.03 ± 0.01). Measurements of Na Al (1.01 ± 0.02; 1.02 ± 0.01) are consistent with the value of unity expected for tetrahedrally-bonded Al in the zeolite framework. For the second sample of bulk powder (MD224, Union Carbide Corporation), the measured values of Si Al = 0.96 ± 0.01 and Na Al = 0.99 ± 0.02 and 1.00 ± 0.01 are consistent with a published bulk chemical analysis ( Si Al = 0.94 ); these indications of excess aluminum over Si Al = 1 are consistent with evidence for a non-crystalline component observed in a neutron scattering experiment on the same sample, and with ion-exchange properties of other commercial samples of zeolite A.
Experimental study of a ternary A+2B-->C reaction-diffusion system with a propagating reaction front: Scaling exponents

We study experimentally the $A+2B\ensuremath{\rightarrow}C$ reaction-diffusion process with initially separated reagents in a capillary using an inorganic chemical reaction. We measure and compare with theory the dynamic quantities that characterize the kinetic behavior of the system: the global reaction rate $R(t),$ the location of the reaction center ${x}_{f}(t),$ the front's width $w(t),$ and the local production rate ${R(x}_{f},t).$ We demonstrate the nonclassical phenomena of reactant segregation and depletion-zone formation for this reaction-diffusion process. The experimental results are in good agreement with theory and simulation and quite different from the exponents for the elementary binary $A+B\ensuremath{\rightarrow}C$ reaction. The time exponents are 0.27 for the width, -0.48 for the global reaction rate, and -0.75 for the local reaction rate, compared to theoretical values of 0.25, -0.5, and -0.75, respectively.
Quasilinear elliptic boundary-value problems on unbounded cylinders and a related mountain-pass lemma

Sufficient conditions for the existence of a weak solution to quasilinear elliptic boundary-value problems on unbounded cylinders are obtained.
Development of a community residency program with a focus on specialty pharmacy

Purpose An innovative community residency program that provides training in the clinical and administrative aspects of specialty pharmacy practice is described. Summary An ongoing rapid rise in U.S. approvals of specialty therapies for chronic diseases and conditions (e.g., Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, infertility, hepatitis C infection, multiple sclerosis) is fueling demand for pharmacists trained to meet the complex needs of patients receiving those therapies, which are typically subject to risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS) requirements and limited distribution arrangements. In 2011, Duquesne University Mylan School of Pharmacy partnered with Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy to launch a one-year community residency program designed to (1) provide enhanced education on diseases and conditions targeted by specialty therapies, (2) develop well-rounded clinicians who are fully knowledgeable of the medications used to treat those disorders, and (3) prepare trainees for the operational and business-related challenges of specialty pharmacy practice. The first half of the residency year emphasizes direct patient care experiences, with team-based rotations focusing on specific disease states and health conditions; the second half of the residency program emphasizes operational–administrative training in areas such as clinical program development, resource utilization review, REMS compliance, contracting, and navigating manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs. Other program components include a one-month external rotation at a managed care organization, research projects, and teaching experiences. Conclusion A unique community residency program jointly developed by Duquesne University and Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy prepares trainees for careers in diverse clinical, managed care, community-based, and academic practice settings.
Reactor and Linear Accelerator Induced Effects in Dielectrics

The currents induced by nuclear radiation from a pulsed reactor on several commercial capacitors are compared with those induced by the electron beam of a linear accelerator (LINAC) source. Dependence of the radiation induced current on applied voltage, geometry, dose, and dose rate is contrasted for Mylar*, polystyrene, mica, tantalum, glass, and ceramic capacitors. These effects are analyzed in terms of models appropriate for the various capacitors, and values of parameters defining these relationships are given. The relative effectiveness of neutron and gamma radiation in producing induced currents in these capacitive elements at the reactor environment was also obtained.
Cubical multiprocessor architecture for solving partial differential equations in three dimensions

A cubical architecture is proposed for multi-microprocessor systems for solving partial differential equations in three dimensions, for possible use in weather forecasting and other similar applications. The architecture makes use of hundreds of processing elements to increase throughput. The system can achieve high performance and does not suffer greatly from interproccssor propagation delay.
The EEZ-GCD algorithm

An enhanced gcd algorithm based on the EZ-GCD algorithm is described. Implementational aspects are emphasized. It is generally faster and is particularly suited for computing gcd of sparse multivariate polynomials. The EEZ-GCD algorithm is characterized by the following features:(1) avoiding unlucky evaluations,(2) predetermining the correct leading coefficient of the desired gcd,(3) using the sparsity of the given polynomials to determine terms in the gcd and(4) direct methods for dealing with the "common divisor problem." The common divisor problem occurs when the gcd has a different common divisor with each of the cofactors. The EZ-GCD algorithm does a square-free decomposition in this case. It can be avoided resulting in increased speed. One method is to use parallel p-adic construction of more than two factors. Machine examples with timing data are included.
Cardiopulmonary complications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Abstract Cardiopulmonary complications account for up to 16% of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)–related adverse events. They have a reported incidence in large prospective studies ranging from 0.07%-2.4% but have been reported much more frequently in smaller single-center studies. This discrepancy in rates is probably because of lack of consensus definitions and inconsistent documentation owing to their often transient nature. Minor complications such as brief arrhythmias, transient desaturation, or fluctuation in blood pressure are frequent but may be of little clinical significance. Cardiopulmonary issues during ERCP may occur because of multiple mechanical and neuroendocrine mechanisms, which are potentiated by patient comorbidities and use of sedation. Deep sedation with propofol increases procedural success in therapeutic procedures and is not associated with increased risk of cardiorespiratory adverse effects when compared with other forms of sedation. Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a high American Society of Anesthesiologists Class (3 or more) have been associated with an increased risk of these complications and may require careful perioperative monitoring. From the standpoint of cardiopulmonary risk, ERCP may be performed in the supine or prone position in patients of most ages, with conscious sedation, monitored anesthesia care, or general anesthesia as appropriate for the case.
Political Influence on the Bureaucracy: The Bureaucracy Speaks

This study addresses the question of political influence on the bureaucracy from the perspective of agency officials who are being pressured. The article presents the results of a survey sent to senior federal government officials concerning the relative impact of policy-making institutions on bureaucratic policy making. The survey differentiated between the types of mechanisms used to influence bureaucratic policy. The results suggest that the perceptions of managers within the bureaucracy correspond to many of the conclusions presented in the top-down studies of political influence. The bureaucracy appears to serve many masters, all of whom have some influence on policy making. In addition, exploratory analyses comparing managers in independent regulatory commissions with those in executive agencies suggest some important differences. The study provides an unique understanding of policy making within the bureaucracy and determines whether or not these officials can be influenced by other institutions of government.
The complete determination of kinetic rate constants for coupled chemical reaction by means of relaxation spectroscopy

Abstract A method of analysis is proposed for chemical relaxation spectra permitting determination of the complete set of rate constants for a coupled multistep reaction. The essential feature is the construction of a “correlation” matrix from transient multispectral experimental data. The analysis requires only integration, matrix inversion, and matrix multiplication.
Theory of second harmonic generation by surface polaritons on metals

Abstract We discuss the theory of second harmonic generation by surface polaritons which propagate on the surface of a nearly free electron metal, with emphasis on the infrared frequency range.
Keratinophilic fungi of the Galapagos Islands.

Summary During a brief visit to th Galapagos Islands of Ecuador, 39 soil specimens were collected from 10 different islands. The collection sites were located in the xeric low lying coastal areas of the islands. The soil was essentially made up of disintegrated lava and was low in organic matter. Seven species of fungi classified in five genera were isolated: Arthroderma quadrifidum, Chrysosporium indicum, C.keratinophilum, C.tropicum, Ctenomyces serratus, Gymnoascus reessii and a Malbranchea species. Zusammenfassung Wahrend eines kurzen Besuches auf den Galapagos-Inseln von Ekuador wurden 39 Erdproben von 10 verschiedenen Inseln gesammelt. Die Entnahmestellen befanden sich in den niedriggelegenen Uferzonen der Inseln. Der Boden bestand hauptsachlich aus verwittertem Lava und war arm an organischer Substanz. Sieben Pilzarten - zu funf Gattungen gehorend - wurden isoliert: Arthroderma quadrifidum, Chrysosporium indicum, C. keratinophilum, C. tropicum, Ctenomyces serratus, Gymnoascus reessii und eine Malbranchea Art.
Tissue regenerative delays and synthetic lethality in adult mice after combined deletion of Atr and Trp53

Eric Brown and colleagues report the mosaic deletion of ATR combined with loss of p53 led to accumulation of highly damaged cells and severe defects in tissue regeneration in adult mice. Trp53 loss of function has previously been shown to rescue tissue maintenance and developmental defects resulting from DNA damage or DNA-repair gene mutations1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12. Here, we report that p53 deficiency severely exacerbates tissue degeneration caused by mosaic deletion of the essential genome maintenance regulator Atr. Combined loss of Atr and p53 (Trp53−/−AtrmKO) led to severe defects in hair follicle regeneration, localized inflammation (Mac1+Gr1+ infiltrates), accelerated deterioration of the intestinal epithelium and synthetic lethality in adult mice. Tissue degeneration in Trp53−/−AtrmKO mice was characterized by the accumulation of cells maintaining high levels of DNA damage. Moreover, the elevated frequency of these damaged cells in both progenitor and downstream compartments in Trp53−/−AtrmKO skin coincided with delayed compensatory tissue renewal from residual ATR-expressing cells. Together, our results indicate that the combined loss of Atr and Trp53 in adult mice leads to the accumulation of highly damaged cells, which, consequently, impose a barrier to regeneration from undamaged progenitors.
Chromium in human milk from American mothers

1. The chromium concentration was determined in 261 samples of breast milk collected by manual expression from forty-five American women.2. Cr was measured in whole, liquid milk by graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry, using the method of standard additions.3. The mean Cr content of the breast milk samples was 0.30 ng/ml. The range of individual values was 0.06–1.56 ng/ml and did not change significantly with duration of lactation.4. The Cr content of breast milk from these American women is similar to levels reported recently in milk from Finnish women.