cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Virtual Flipped Class and Laboratories for Medical Electronics Course

This paper describes the adaptation of a flipped Biomedical Electronics course with laboratories to remote learning at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. In class collaborative work on problem sets was replaced by group work (4–5 students) in Zoom breakout sessions. When the groups assembled at random for each class had sufficiently progressed on a problem, a detailed solution was typed on the Multisim circuit simulator desktop (National Instruments) shared on the instructor screen. A laboratory project dealing with the development of an electromyograph (EMG) was redesigned for in-depth exploration of each circuit block composing the EMG circuit that was only feasible with the circuit simulator. The students progressed through the remote section of the course at the same rate as they had in the physical classroom in prior years. Student pairs finished a more complete virtual EMG laboratory project without being hampered by manipulation errors that are typical of novices when assembling hardware circuits. We conclude that a flipped biomedical electronics course can successfully be offered remotely and that virtual electronics laboratories that make use of a circuit simulator can provide a complete and meaningful learning experience.
Assessing proxy system models of cave dripwater δ18O variability

Abstract Large uncertainties in future climate change necessitate understanding of decadal-centennial variability in past climate. Speleothems, which capture changes in the stable isotope composition (i.e., δ18O values) of rainfall, have been widely employed to constrain hydroclimate variability in the past due to their continuous growth and potential for high temporal resolution. However, the interpretation of speleothem proxies (i.e., geochemical and growth rate records) is still imperfectly constrained. One challenge involves understanding the transformation from rainfall δ18O to calcite δ18O. A recent advance to address this challenge is the development of proxy system models (PSMs), which translate climate variables to speleothem calcite δ18O values. However, the complexity and applicability of each model varies. In order to assess which speleothem PSMs are most suitable for simulating speleothem records, we evaluate four commonly applied PSMs, which span a range of complexity (one simple, two intermediate-complexity, and one complex model). The evaluation is based on a given model’s ability to simulate observed drip δ18O time series using multi-year long cave dripwater and rainfall data sets from semi-arid central Texas and tropical Borneo. The models are based on the running mean of rainfall δ18O (RM model), dripwater transit time (PRYSM model), StorAge Selection (SAS model), and combination of flow paths in karst systems (Karstolution model). We explore the parameter settings of these models and evaluate them employing the Root Mean Square Errors (RMSEs) metric. We find that for drip sites in semi-arid climates with long residence times, model complexity of at least intermediate levels is required to simulate cave dripwater δ18O variability. The RMSEs of intermediate-complexity PSMs (PRYSM, SAS, and Karstolution) are close to the range of analytical errors, while the RMSE of the simple RM model is far larger. For drip sites in wet climates with short residence times, all four models, including the RM model, are capable of simulating cave dripwater δ18O well. In practice, we assert that the use of models of intermediate complexity such as PRYSM may be required when detailed knowledge of variables such as groundwater residence time for a given cave setting is unknown. Such PSMs are useful for global-scale studies due to their broad applicability and simplicity. We also illustrate the use of comprehensive physical models, such as Karstolution, for understanding cave processes like fractionation due to epikarst evaporation. The poorer performance of the PSMs in semi-arid environments than their performance in humid environments suggests that additional in-situ process studies are needed to improve simulations of relatively dry cave systems and provide enhanced interpretations of speleothem reconstructions from these environments.
How Should We Select Design Parameters

Previous chapters emphasized that the first step in the design process is the identification of the problem(s) after establishing the goal of the design. Then, we define the functional requirements (FRs) the design must satisfy to deal with the problem. Once FRs are determined, we conceptualize a design by selecting DPs that can satisfy the FRs.
Solution or Gas Phase? Oxidation and Radical Formation in Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI MS)

The relationship between one-electron (e−) oxidation processes and the formation of radical cations of endogenous and exogenous compounds in vivo is of considerable interest. This paper reports on the experiments that allow FTICR mass spectrometric (MS) detection of ion signals that are consistent with the formation of radical cations of caffeine (CA) and theophylline (TP) during electrospray ionization (ESI) in ESI FTICR MS and in on-line electrochemistry (EC)/ESI FTICR MS in positive mode. Significantly, the signals of the radicals of CA•+ and TP•+can be enhanced by simple modifications of the operating conditions in ESI MS, facilitating investigations of radical formation and related reactions.
Increased PD-1 expression in cynomolgus and rhesus macaques during lentiviral infection

Costimulatory molecules play important roles in immunoregulation. Recent evidence in mice suggests programmed death-1 (PD-1) is a marker for T-cell exhaustion in a murine LCMV model. Here we demonstrate increased PD-1 expression in CD3+ T cells following lentiviral infection in cynomolgus and rhesus macaques with a concomitant increase in CD4+ CD8+ double-positive (DP) T cells. We found DP T cells are PD-1hi and demonstrate a high proliferative capacity in response to lectin stimulation. DP PD-1hi T-cell populations contain functionally active antigen-specific T cells, secreting IFN-γ and expressing CD107a upon stimulation using Gag peptide pools. Finally, we report an inverse correlation between PD-1 expression on CD4 single-positive T cells and CD4+ T-cell counts. Our data indicate PD-1 as a possible marker for immune health during lentiviral infection and suggest higher PD-1 expression in chronically infected monkeys is indicative of T-cell stimulation rather than T-cell exhaustion. To our knowledge, this is the first study of PD-1 expression in non-human primates.
Drug courts: A bridge between criminal justice and health services

Abstract There is striking overlap between the public health threats of drug abuse and crime. Crimes are often drug related, and drug abusers frequently encounter the criminal justice system. However, with few exceptions (e.g., Treatment Alternatives to Street Crime, TASC), the intersection of drug abusers with the courts has rarely addressed the defendants' drug problems. Drug courts represent an innovative approach to addressing both crime and drug abuse. Especially promising, and of great importance given that drug abuse is associated with a host of other health and social service needs, is the link that drug courts represent between the criminal justice and health services systems. Connections to health services are considered vital to drug courts but are poorly understood. The need for a bridge between criminal justice and health services is discussed, and a conceptual framework for its investigation is presented. Using data collected from site visits of 14 drug courts across the United States and Puerto Rico, the services available to drug court clients are described and linkages between drug courts and health services (including drug treatment providers) are explained.
Genetic Classification and Language Contact

Over the years, a number of linguists have expressed reservations about many of the assumptions underlying this view, and in this paper the author examine both the orthodox view and various alternatives to it. The paper begins with a discussion of what it might mean to say that two languages are genetically related. Michael Noonan follows this with a discussion of models of genetic relatedness, paying special attention to the widely-accepted family tree model and the assumptions that underlie it. Then he considers various outcomes of language contact and discuss what sorts of models of genetic relatedness these are most compatible with. Lastly, he addresses the topic of speciation – the creation of new languages – and language contact.
Distribution of Sicydium Valenciennes 1837 (Pisces: Gobiidae) in Mexico and Central America

Gobies of the genus Sicydium Valenciennes are widespread in Mexico and Central America, but have a different distribution pattern on the Atlantic and Pacific slopes of the region. On the Pacific slope, where mountain ranges are found near the coast and the coastal plain is narrow, Sicydium is continuously distributed in rivers from Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico, to central Panama. On the Atlantic slope, Sicydium is known from to three disjunct areas where coastal mountain ranges are present, central Mexico, northern Honduras, and northeastern Costa Rica and northern Panama, and has not been recorded from intervening areas with broad coastal plains. The amphidromous life history of Sicydium gobies may prevent them from occupying rivers flowing through broad coastal plains. Sicydium gobies spawn in rocky mountainous river reaches and their larvae drift downstream to the ocean where they begin feeding. In rivers crossing broad coastal plains the distance to the ocean is relatively long, and I hypothesize that newly hatched larvae might starve before they reached their marine feeding habitat or that post-larvae might starve on their return migration up river to adult habitat.
Targeting SLC1a5-mediated glutamine dependence in non-small cell lung cancer

New therapeutic strategies are desperately needed in lung cancer. Targeting cancer-specific biochemical phenotypes, including those determined metabolically, represents an alternative approach to treating patients with lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths in the USA and worldwide.1 L-Glutamine (Gln) is an essential amino acid for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) growth in vitro and in vivo.2–4 Gln has been shown to sustain tumor growth under hypoxia,5 to mediate K-RAS-driven lung cancer growth6 and to support the autophagy-mediated prosurvival pathway in B-RAFV600-driven lung tumors.7 Nonetheless, the specific contribution of Gln transporters to lung cancer remains largely unknown. What’s new? New strategies to overcome lung cancer mortality depend heavily on the discovery of novel therapeutic targets. In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a possible target is solute linked carrier family 1A, member 5 (SLC1A5), a major glutamine transporter in NSCLC. This study furthers the promise of SLC1A5 by showing that its expression levels in lung cancer cells can predict cell sensitivity to the inhibitor gamma-L-glutamyl-p-nitroanilide (GPNA). In NSCLC cell lines, SLC1A5 inactivation led to glutamine starvation and oxidative stress-mediated autophagy and apoptosis. In NSCLC patients, SLC1A5 expression was associated with poor overall survival. We recently identified by in-depth shotgun proteomic analysis of stage I NSCLCs several therapeutic targets including the solute linked carrier family 1A, member 5 (SLC1A5).8 We were the first to report that SLC1A5 functions as the primary transporter of Gln in a sodium-dependent manner in NSCLC.9 Inhibition of SLC1A5 attenuates cell growth and mTOR signaling.9,10 Although pharmacological strategies to inhibit Gln metabolism using amino acid analogs such as acivicin and 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) have been investigated,3,11 the lack of selectivity of these agents has shifted the efforts to developing agents directed at specific nodes of glutamine metabolism instead.12 Given the emerging role of Gln metabolism in cancer13 and the differential expression of SLC1A5 in NSCLC,9 we tested the hypothesis that elevated SLC1A5 expression is a key prosurvival mechanism that promotes NSCLC progression by increasing tumor cells to transport and utilize Gln available in the microenvironment. We investigated the prognostic value of SLC1A5 expression in NSCLC and examined the therapeutic potential of targeting its Gln transport activity in cell and xenografts by inhibiting SLC1A5-dependent Gln transport.
An Asynchronous Distributed Proximal Gradient Method for Composite Convex Optimization

We propose a distributed first-order augmented Lagrangian (DFAL) algorithm to minimize the sum of composite convex functions, where each term in the sum is a private cost function belonging to a node, and only nodes connected by an edge can directly communicate with each other. This optimization model abstracts a number of applications in distributed sensing and machine learning. We show that any limit point of DFAL iterates is optimal; and for any e < 0, an e-optimal and e-feasible solution can be computed within O(log(e-1)) DFAL iterations, which require O(ψmax1.5/dmin e-1) proximal gradient computations and communications per node in total, where ψmax denotes the largest eigenvalue of the graph Laplacian, and dmin is the minimum degree of the graph. We also propose an asynchronous version of DFAL by incorporating randomized block coordinate descent methods; and demonstrate the efficiency of DFAL on large scale sparse-group LASSO problems.
The dependence of the isotope separation factor of the hydrogen-evolution reaction upon potential: mechanism evidence for transition-metal substrates

Abstract A linear variation of the separation factor of hydrogen isotopes with overpotential is observed only on the high overpotential metals, where the discharge step is rate-determining, and seems to depend upon a change in shape of the potential-energy barrier of the rate-determining discharge step with potential, resulting in change of the degree of tunnelling for protium and tritium. The variation of the separation factor with overpotential on medium and low overpotential metals is associated with the change of the rate-determining step and/or mechanism.
Subacute administration of Plak-Lite sodium fluorescein solution in hamsters.

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the potential toxic effects of Plak-Lite disclosing solution, which contains 0.75% sodium fluorescein U.S.P. in buffered glycerol in hamsters under defined and exaggerated conditions. In oral dosing experiments, volumes calculated at least 50, 200 or 1000 times the human daily use level were administered. For intraoral application the 1000 X human use level was selected. The control group was dosed orally with the 1000 X dose volume of water. All animals were treated once a day for 31 or 92 days. Daily examination of animals revealed no overt drug or dosing-related effects. Weights recorded at 31 or 92 days were similar for all groups. Histological evaluation performed on tongue, oral mucosa, cheek pouch, stomach (3 sections), liver, kidney, spleen, small intestine (3 sections), large intestine and bladder revealed no pathological changes. This study demonstrates the safety of Plak-Lite disclosing solution when administered at exaggerated dose levels via routes simulating human use.
Calcium Permeability in Large Unilamellar Vesicles Prepared from Bovine Lens Cortical Lipids

The loss of calcium homeostasis in the lens is thought to play an important role in cataract formation. Although both lens Ca(2+)-ATPase and membrane lipid permeability are essential to calcium homeostasis, membrane permeability has been studied less extensively. In the present study, the calcium permeability of large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) prepared from bovine lens cortical lipids has been characterized. When a calcium gradient had been established by the addition of CaCl2 to the external medium, calcium influx through the membrane was monitored by calcium concentration sensitive changes in Fura-2 fluorescence as a function of time. The calcium permeability coefficient, P, was 4.46 x 10(-13) cm s-1 at 37 degrees C. This value was about 4 fold higher than that for LUVs prepared from egg phosphatidylcholine and many times higher than that for LUVs prepared from sphingomyelin. These results provide a basis for future studies of factors that influence the permeability of lens cell membranes to calcium.
Thirty-Five Questions

The research projects upon which Hallenbeck, Olson, Solberg, and Wang reflect raise challenging questions about the location of and boundaries around their archival sources. The authors' reflections prompt my inquiry into how access to these sources might be affected by the socioeconomic and technological developments that are reshaping academe.
The Concept of Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Growing interest in double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has sparked tremendous research, yielding a better understanding of normal ACL anatomy, kinematics, and function. Recent studies have more accurately defined the size and orientation of the femoral and tibial insertion sites of the anteromedial and posterolateral bundles. At our institution, we have identified specific osseous landmarks to better guide tunnel placement. The goal of anatomic ACL is to use these discoveries, refine technique, and reconstruct the ACL in a manner that most closely mimics normal anatomy. Logically, we believe that anatomic ACL reconstruction will lead to more favorable kinematics and, in turn, improved patient outcomes. This article summarizes our experiences and details our systematic approach to anatomic ACL reconstruction. Finally, we highlight multiple issues with conventional ACL reconstruction to better illustrate the concept of anatomic ACL reconstruction.
Biological properties of the 2-fluoro-β-alanine conjugates of cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid in the isolated perfused rat liver

Abstract The isolated perfused rat liver was used to examine the hepatic extraction, biliary secretion and effect on bile flow of the 2-fluoro-β-alanine conjugates of cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid. The naturally occurring taurine and glycine conjugates of these bile acids were used for comparisons. The 2-fluoro-β-alanine conjugates were extracted by the liver to a similar extent as the taurine and glycine conjugates. The biliary secretion rate and increase in bile flow were similar for all the cholic acid conjugates. On the other hand, the maximal biliary secretion rate of the 2-fluoro-β-alanine conjugate of chenodeoxycholate was similar to that of the glycochenodeoxycholate, but 47% lower than that of taurochenodeoxycholate. In addition, the 2-fluoro-β-alanine conjugate of chenodeoxycholate produced a decrease in bile flow that was comparable to that observed with the glycochenodeoxycholate (54% vs. 74%), but which was greater than that produced by the taurochenodeoxycholate (12%). In summary, these data demonstrate that the biological properties of the 2-fluoro-β-alanine conjugates of cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid are not markedly different from those of the naturally occurring taurine and glycine conjugates. These data also suggest that the amino acid moiety can influence the biliary secretion and cholestatic properties of chenodeoxycholic acid conjugates.
Phase equilibria in the Nb-Ge-C system☆

Abstract An experimental survey of the Nb-Ge-C ternary phase diagram was used to determine the equilibrium tie-lines between solid phases in this system. In addition to the binary phases, the system contains a newly discovered ternary phase with an approximate composition of Nb 3 GeC, and an extensive solution phase extending into the ternary system from the binary β-Nb 5 Ge 3 phase.
Nascent morphology of polyacetylene

Acetylene was first polymerised to a linear polymer in 19581 but the resulting grey powdery material, insoluble, infusible, and devoid of any interesting electrical properties, remained a scientific curiosity until Ito et al.2 showed that it was possible to polymerise acetylene into a continuous film on the wall of a reactor. This polyacetylene film, (CH)x, a large band gap semiconductor, can be transformed into a highly conducting material with σRT∼ 1,000 (Ω cm)−1 (refs 3–12) upon doping with either electron donors or acceptors13,14. Although fibrous electron micrographs (EM) of unaligned2 and partially aligned (stretch elongated) samples having enhanced conductivities have been reported3, it has been suggested that the observed morphology might be misleading, possibly resulting from a post-polymerisation handling of the film, or even an artefact such as the result of ultrasonication. The aim of this work is to determine the true nascent morphology of polyacetylene. We have polymerised acetylene directly on electron microscope gold grids and examined the polymer with scanning and transmission modes. The ultrathin specimen is entirely fibrous with diameters of ∼5–40 nm, with 20-nm fibrils the most abundant. Some films show surface fractures revealing partially or completely aligned fibrils bridging the gaps. Some globular features were also observed suggesting local fusion. Thick films of polyacetylene also have fibrous morphology throughout. The observed structure is consistent with surface area measurements. Therefore, acetylene polymerises directly into fibrils, possibly due to the rigidity of the polymer backbone which is comprised of conjugated double bonds.
Using an Exemplification Exercise to Teach Psychological Disorders

At the beginning of the semester, 2 introductory psychology classes took 1 pretest requiring them to match 12 psychological disorders with the correct definitions and another requiring them to match the disorders with appropriate examples. Twelve weeks later, both classes heard lecture material on the disorders. One class also performed an exercise in which students wrote an original example of each disorder. At the end of the period in each class, students took posttests identical to the pretests. The lecture-plus-exercise class performed significantly better than the lecture-only class on the posttests but not on the pretests, reflecting the teaching effectiveness of the exemplification exercise as a supplement to lecture material.
NODAL ADVENTITIOUS ROOTS IN WILLOW STEMS OF DIFFERENT AGES

HAVIS, A. L. 1940. Developmental studies with Brassica seedlings. Amer. Jour. Bot. 27:239-245. JACOBS, W. P. 1950. Auxin-transport in the hypocotyl of Phaseolus vulgaris L. Amer. Jour. Bot. 37: 248-254. MILLER, H. A., AND R. H. WETMORE. 1945. Studies in the developmental anatomy of Phlox Drummondii Hook. II. The seedling. Amer. Jour. Bot. 32:628634. NAVEZ, A. E. 1933. Growth-promoting substance and illumination. Proc. National Acad. Sci. (U.S.) 19: 636-638. SNEDECOR, G. W. 1946. Statistical methods. Iowa State College Press. Ames, Iowa. VAN OVERBEEK, J. 1932. An analysis of phototropism in dicotyledons. Proc. K. Akad. Wetenschap. Amsterdam 35: 1325-1335. . 1933. Wuchsstoff, Lichtwachstumreaktion und Phototropismus bei Raphanus. Recueil Trav. Bot. Neerland. 30: 537-626. VAN RAALTE, M. H. 1937. On factors determining the auxin content of the root tip. Recueil Trav. Bot. Neerland. 34: 279-332.
Formation of annealing twin boundaries in nickel

The development of annealing twin boundaries in pure nickel was investigated using instantaneous heating in a salt bath and in situ annealing on a heating stage designed for use with electron backscatter diffraction. It was observed that twin grains form to assist in the recrystallization process and that a significantly higher fraction of twin boundaries form when the deformed specimen is heated at a slow rate, regardless of the annealing temperature.
Perspective. The dawning of the age of graphene

Graphene is a single sheet of carbon atoms that constitutes the basic building block of macroscopic graphite crystals. Held together by a backbone of overlapping sp2 hybrids, graphene's 2p orbitals form π state bands that delocalize over an entire 2-dimensional macroscopic carbon sheet leading to a number of unusual characteristics that include large electrical and thermal conductivities. Recent discoveries have provided simple methods (e.g., mechanical cleavage of graphite) for preparing laboratory scale samples that can be used to investigate the fundamental physical and chemical characteristics of graphene. In addition, a number of techniques have emerged that show promise for producing large-scale samples with the ultimate goal of developing devices that take advantage of graphene's unusual properties. As large samples become available, the possibility grows for applications of this material in solar cell technology (as flexible, transparent electrodes), in composite material development, and in electronic devices.
High resolution solution structure of ribosomal protein L11-C76, a helical protein with a flexible loop that becomes structured upon binding to RNA.

The structure of the C-terminal RNA recognition domain of ribosomal protein L11 has been solved by heteronuclear three-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Although the structure can be considered high resolution in the core, 15 residues between helix α1 and strand β1 form an extended, unstructured loop. 15N transverse relaxation measurements suggest that the loop is moving on a picosecond-to-nanosecond time scale in the free protein but not in the protein bound to RNA. Chemical shifts differences between the free protein and the bound protein suggest that the loop as well as the C-terminal end of helix α3 are involved in RNA binding.
Mechanisms of cisplatin ototoxicity and progress in otoprotection.

Purpose of review This review presents exciting new data published in the past year that help to elucidate the mechanisms of cisplatin ototoxicity. Recent research findings on otoprotection could lead to the development of novel protective agents. Cisplatin ototoxicity is a frequent and serious problem in patients. Strategies to ameliorate ototoxicity without interfering with the desired therapeutic effects are urgently needed. Recent findings Cisplatin ototoxicity appears to involve the production of reactive oxygen species in target tissues in the inner ear by activating an enzyme unique to the cochlea. This leads to a cascade resulting in oxidation of lipids and cell death. The upregulation of endogenous protective mechanisms in the cochlea or treatment with exogenous compounds reduces ototoxicity in cisplatin-treated animals. The only clinical trials reported to date with the putative protective agent, amifostine, have been disappointing. Summary The data summarized in this paper could lead to important clinical trials to determine whether the findings in experimental animals can translate into effective treatments to prevent cisplatin ototoxicity.
Event-Related Potentials in a Two-Choice Task Involving Within-Form Comparisons of Pictures and Words

Behavioral as well as electrophysiological evidence suggests that words are processed differently than pictures in a variety of tasks. In this study fifteen adult subjects were tested on a speeded "same-different" judgment task between printed names and drawings of common objects. In one condition, subjects decided on the identity between their internal image of the object that was named by S1 (word) and a subsequently presented drawing of an object (Word-Picture condition). In a second condition, comparisons were made on the basis of the name of the depicted object (Picture-Word trials). Event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded from 12 scalp locations in response to the second item in each pair. No-match waveforms were characterized by larger N350 and P500 deflections compared to Match ERPs. The two responses could be distinguished on the basis of their lateral and anterior-posterior scalp distribution. Within-form comparisons involving pictures produced increased positivity between 150 and 600 ms poststimulus onset at posterior recording sites, whereas the opposite effect was noted at anterior sites during the early portion of the ERP. Decisions on word stimuli were associated with prolonged reaction time and longer N350 peak latency compared to decisions on pictures. These results demonstrate the existence of independent sources of ERP variability, each possibly reflecting a different aspect of cognitive comparisons. Latency and reaction time data provided valuable information regarding differences in the course of the comparison process when linguistic, as opposed to pictorial, stimuli/representations were involved.
Comments on Steel Construction...Equipment...Management...Conferences...

Contractual relationships often impose barriers to good communication in the construction of steel structures. There are times when the erector works for the general contractor, the fabricator works for the general contractor under a separate contract, and the fabricator sublets the detailing to another firm that is under contract to the fabricator only. It is difficult to break through that contractual morass and have meaningful communication between the erector and the detailer. Difficult, but not impossible. There is at least one fabricator and one detailer that do not stand on ceremony and really push for cooperation and communication. My company was the erector in this particular chain, and we were very happy when this fabricator got their portion of the project. It was a bridge that had its deck transition from one width to another. Some girders stopped at a pier while others in the continuous spans continued. There were serious deflection differentials between adjacent girders. The sublet detailer caught this problem and broadcast it to all concerned. The fabricator gave us free reign to communicate directly, as long as we kept the fabricator informed. The major problem was that the cross-frames would not fit until the deck was poured. We needed some of the cross-frames for stability, and we did not want to erect any of them after the deck was poured. There were a series of faxes and phone calls as the detail evolved with a combination of slotted holes for bolts and round holes for pins. The final tightening of the bolts in these connections was performed after the deck was poured, but the cross-frames were erected as we went along and they rotated in the slots as the deck was poured. The sequence of pins, bolts, and tightening was put on the erector’s project specific erection plan so that everyone at the site knew what was happening and what to do. This was one of the best examples of good communication without letting contractual relationships get in the way. It was done in this case; it can be done on all projects.
Cerebrospinal fluid immunoelectrophoresis in multiple sclerosis

In 95 patients with definite multiple sclerosis (MS) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytomorphology, protein electrophoresis and immunoelectrophoresis using antisera to human serum, Fab fragments of immunoglobulin G(IgG) and to kappa and lambda light chains and the CSF IgG concentration were examined. In the CSF diagnosis of MS, the set of the examinations used is considered to be superior to any individual laboratory technique currently applied in the diagnostic process of MS. In the set of the CSF examinations, CSF immunoelectrophoresis revealed abnormal findings in patients with MS in whom presence of bands (oligoclonal gammopathy) in the gamma-globulin field of the CSF electropherogram and/or increased concentration of CSF IgG were not demonstrated.
Learning sparse Boolean polynomials

We are given a Boolean function f : {−1,1}n → R that can be written as a sparse linear combination of s polynomials. The Junta problem cf. [1] is an instance of such a setting. Our goal is to learn the function f by accessing its values at randomly sampled m elements from {−1, l}n. In this paper, we draw connections between the sparse polynomial learning problem and compressed sensing. As a result we provide a convex program that learns an s-sparse polynomial with high probability using m = O(s2n) observations. We contrast this result with the worst case sample-complexity which requires O(n2n) random samples to learn the entire function f. Our results naturally extend to the setting where the data is noisy or f is well approximated by an s-sparse polynomial. Our results also show that the solution adapts to the number of observations and finds a natural approximation given the available information.
Incidence and risk factors for postoperative ileus following anterior, posterior, and circumferential lumbar fusion

Abstract Background context Postoperative ileus is a known complication of surgery. The incidence and risk factors for ileus after lumbar fusion surgery is not well characterized. Purpose To determine rates of postoperative ileus, a population-based database was analyzed to identify incidence, mortality, and risk factors associated with anterior (ALF), posterior (PLF), and combined anterior/posterior (APLF) lumbar fusions. Study design This was a retrospective database analysis. Patient sample The sample consisted of 220,522 patients from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Outcome measures Outcome measures were incidence of postoperative ileus, length of stay (LOS), in-hospital costs, and mortality. Methods Data from the NIS were obtained from 2002 to 2009. Patients undergoing ALF, PLF, and APLF for degenerative pathologies were identified and the incidence of postoperative ileus was assessed. Patient demographics, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), LOS, costs, and mortality were assessed. SPSS v.20 was used to detect statistical differences between groups and perform logistic regression analyses to identify independent predictors of postoperative ileus. A p value less than .001 denoted significance. Results A total of 220,522 lumbar fusions were identified in the United States from 2002 to 2009. There were 19,762 ALFs, 182,801 PLFs, and 17,959 APLFs. The incidence of postoperative ileus was increased in ALFs over PLFs (74.9 vs. 26.0 per 1,000; p Conclusions The results of our study demonstrate increased incidence of postoperative ileus associated with anterior approaches for lumbar fusion. Across cohorts, postoperative ileus was associated with increased LOS and costs. To determine the mortality and resource use associated with postoperative ileus, we recommend preoperatively identifying and treating modifiable risk factors, especially when an anterior approach is used.
Sociotropy, autonomy, and bulimic symptomatology.

Objective The cognitive-behavioral model of bulimia nervosa suggests that maladaptive cognitions are associated with the development and maintenance of bulimia nervosa. This study was conducted to evaluate (a) the relation between bulimic symptomatology and the cognitive-personality styles of sociotropy (reflecting themes of acceptance and approval) and autonomy (reflecting themes of independence and achievement), and (b) the specificity of the relation between these two cognitive-personality styles and bulimic versus depressive symptoms. Method: 105 undergraduate women were administered self-report measures of sociotropy and autonomy, as well as bulimic and depressive symptomatology. Results: Whereas both sociotropy and autonomy were related to bulimic symptomatology, only sociotropy was uniquely associated with symptoms of bulimia when controlling for the effects of depressive symptoms. Discussion: Themes of acceptance and approval may be important cognitive-personality features of bulimia nervosa. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 23: 439–442, 1998.
Quadazocine decreases responding reinforced by ethanol, sucrose, and phencyclidine fluid deliveries in rhesus monkeys: comparison to naltrexone's effects.

Rationale: The endogenous opioid system may mediate the reinforcing effects of ethanol as well as sweet-tasting solutions. For example, opioid antagonists, such as naltrexone, reduce ethanol- and sucrose-reinforced responding in rhesus monkeys. If these effects are due to blockade of the µ-receptor, then an opioid antagonist such as quadazocine with a receptor selectivity profile similar to that of naltrexone should reduce responding at doses correlated with its µ-selectivity. Objectives: To determine whether quadazocine would reduce responding for ethanol and sucrose at µ-selective doses, and whether quadazocine and naltrexone would reduce responding for a bitter-tasting drug solution such as phencyclidine. Methods: Rhesus monkeys were given access to ethanol, sucrose, or phencyclidine concurrently with water. Prior to the drinking sessions, quadazocine (0.032–3.2 mg/kg) or saline was injected intramuscularly. During the phencyclidine experiment, naltrexone (0.1 and 0.32 mg/kg) was also tested. Results: The highest quadazocine doses (1 and 3.2 mg/kg) reduced ethanol and sucrose fluid deliveries without affecting the concurrently available water. Quadazocine reduced the fluid deliveries of both phencyclidine and water when concurrently available. Naltrexone reduced only phencyclidine fluid deliveries. Conclusions: The opioid antagonist effect on oral-reinforced responding is not selective for ethanol or sweet-tasting solutions; responding for phencyclidine was reduced as well. Quadazocine and NTX may reduce responding by blocking the µ-receptor because the relative potency of these antagonists to reduce oral self-administration was similar to their relative potency to produce withdrawal in morphine-dependent monkeys. However, water responding was low in these experiments, and thus we cannot rule out rate-dependent effects of the antagonists.
Backstepping based position control of active magnetic bearing under bounded disturbance

In this paper we study the position control of the rotor of single-axis active magnetic bearing in presence of bounded disturbance. We apply the approach of integrator backstepping and design a nonlinear position controller for the rotor. With the voltages as the control inputs, which are used to generate the magnetic field, the proposed controller can make the rotor practically track a smooth reference trajectory with an as small as desired tracking error by selecting appropriate design parameters. Simulation results are included to verify the proposed controller.
Spatially resolved vibrational energy transfer in molecular monolayers.

We have shown that it is possible to input heat to one location of a molecule and simultaneously measure its arrival in real time at two other locations, using an ultrafast flash-thermal conductance technique. A femtosecond laser pulse heats an Au layer to ∼800 °C, while vibrational sum-frequency generation spectroscopy (SFG) monitors heat flow into self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of organic thiolates. Heat flow into the SAM creates thermally induced disorder, which decreases the coherent SFG signal from the CH-stretching transitions. Recent improvements in the technique are described, including the use of nonresonant background-suppressed SFG. The improved apparatus was characterized using alkanethiolate and benzenethiolate SAMs. In the asymmetric 2-methyl benzenethiolate SAM, SFG can simultaneously monitor CH-stretching transitions of both phenyl and methyl groups. The phenyl response to flash-heating occurs at least as fast as the 1 ps time for the Au surface to heat. The methyl response has a faster ...
Particles and Scaling for Lattice Fields and Ising Models

The conjectured inequality γ(6)≦0 leads to the existence of ϕd4 fields and the scaling (continuum) limit ford-dimensional Ising models. Assuming γ(6)≦0 and Lorentz covariance of this construction, we show that ford≧6 these ϕd4 fields are free fields unless the field strength renormalizationZ−1 diverges. Let λ be the bare charge and e the lattice spacing. Under the same assumptions (γ(6)≦0, Lorentz covariance andd≧6) we show that if λe4−d is bounded as e→0, thenZ−1 is bounded and the limit field is free.
Regulation of α-Synuclein Expression by Poly (ADP Ribose) Polymerase-1 (PARP-1) Binding to the NACP-Rep1 Polymorphic Site Upstream of the SNCA Gene

Alleles at NACP-Rep1, the polymorphic microsatellite repeat located ∼10 kb upstream of the α-synuclein gene ( SNCA ), are associated, in some reports, with differing risks of sporadic Parkinson disease (PD). We showed previously that NACP-Rep1 acts as a negative modulator of SNCA transcription, with an effect that varied threefold among different NACP-Rep1 alleles. Given that duplications and triplications of SNCA have been implicated in familial Parkinson disease (PD), even a 1.5–2-fold increase in α-synuclein expression may, over many decades, contribute to PD. Thus, the association of different NACP-Rep1 alleles with PD may be a consequence of polymorphic differences in transcriptional regulation of SNCA. Here we aimed to identify the factor(s) that bind to NACP-Rep1 and potentially contribute to SNCA transcriptional modulation, by pulling down proteins that bind to NACP-Rep1 and identifying them by mass spectrometry. One of these proteins was poly-(ADP-ribose) transferase/polymerase-1 (PARP-1), a DNA-binding protein and transcriptional regulator. Electrophoresis mobility shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed specific binding of PARP-1 to NACP-Rep1. Inhibition of PARP-1's catalytic domain increased the endogenous SNCA mRNA levels in cultured SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, PARP-1 binding to NACP-Rep1 specifically reduced the transcriptional activity of the SNCA promoter/enhancer in luciferase reporter assays. This down-regulation effect of PARP-1 depended on NACP-Rep1 being present in the construct and was abrogated by inhibiting PARP-1's catalytic activity with 3-aminobenzamide. The association of different NACP-Rep1 alleles with PD may be mediated, in part, by the effect of PARP-1, as well as other factors, on SNCA expression.
Protein folding and calcium binding defects arising from familial hypercholesterolemia mutations of the LDL receptor.

Studies of a critical module in the ligand binding domain of the LDL receptor implicate a protein folding defect, coupled to a deficiency in calcium binding, as a major cause of familial hypercholesterolemia.
Performance measurement and intranets: a natural partnership

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explain how the intranet can be used to improve performance measurement and management.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a reflective in nature with a need tool to help managers manage.Findings – The importance of measuring performance and setting standards is well known. A good performance measurement system helps groups, departments, or organizations communicate their current situation and future needs. Therefore, it is critical to measure the right things and to provide critical real‐time information to decision makers. Today's intranets have the potential solve these issues.Originality/value – The paper offers insights into how intranets can aid performance measurement.
Decrease in A1 adenosine receptors in adipocytes from spontaneously hypertensive rats.

We have investigated whether the insulin resistance reported to occur in hypertension is due to decreased insulin receptors or to adenosine receptors in adipocyte membranes. Membranes were isolated from adipocytes from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKy) rats and assayed for insulin receptors and A1 adenosine receptors. The two groups of membranes bound 125I-insulin equally, but in contrast the SHR membranes bound approximately 25% less 125I-HPIA ([(-)-N6-p-hydroxyphenylisopropyl adenosine], an A1 adenosine receptor agonist) than the WKy (P less than .005). Scatchard analysis demonstrated that this was due to a lower number of receptors in the SHR. The affinity of the receptor for HPIA was approximately 0.7 nmol/L in both groups. 5'-Nucleotidase activity was approximately 40% higher in membranes from SHR than WKy (P less than .001), indicating that adipocytes from SHR have a higher capacity for adenosine production. This may cause increased adenosine concentrations in the SHR adipose tissue, leading to adenosine receptor down-regulation. Since we have previously demonstrated that adenosine receptor down-regulation can lead to insulin resistance, these findings may partly account for the insulin resistance of hypertension.
Comparison of body surface potential and laplacian mapping with epicardial mapping for detection of cardiac ischemia in pigs

The standard electrocardiogram (ECG) and the body surface potential map (BSPM) are only moderately sensitive for the detection of ischemia and cannot accurately localize ischemic regions within the heart. We have previously demonstrated that the body surface Laplacian map (BSLM) does provide the capability to localize electrical activity within the heart. The objective of this study was to compare the abilities of BSLM and BSPM to detect and localize ischemic regions within the heart with reference to direct epicardial potential measurements. Ischemia was induced in six anesthetized Yorkshire swine by occluding the distal left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery, or a diagonal branch of the LAD and the obtuse marginal coronary artery. Atrial pacing was used to incrementally increase the degree of ischemia. BSPM, BSLM, and epicardial recordings were simultaneously obtained after occlusion of each coronary artery and subsequently during atrial pacing. We used a normalized measure of ischemia (shift in the ratio: ST segment height divided by QR amplitude) measured at each electrode and created corresponding maps of the spatial distribution of this measure for the BSPM, BSLM, and epicardial potential maps. The BSLM was more sensitive than the BSPM in identifying ischemia and was capable of localizing and resolving one or more ischemic areas while the BSPM was not. The BSLM also distinguished between different levels of ischemia associated with atrial pacing at different rates. Due to its better spatial resolution and sensitivity, the BSLM promises to provide an improved means for noninvasive localization of myocardial ischemia.
Resistance of Chicks to Infection with Influenza A Virus.

SummaryVirus was not recovered after hatching from chicks infected as embryos with the Melbourne strain of influenza A virus. This virus survived and increased in cultures of 18- or 20-day embryo lung and lung tissue from 2-day-old chicks at 37° C, but not in cultures of embryo or chick lung at 41°C. Virus was not recovered from embryos inoculated by the chorio-allantoic route and kept at 41°C. Virus was demonstrated in the lungs of 1-day-old chicks at 19 but not at 48 hours after inoculation in the nares. No neutralizing antibodies for the virus were detected in sera of chicks following such inoculation nor in the sera of normal chicks or adult chickens.
REHABILITATION CONCEPTS AND SUPPORTIVE DEVICES FOR OVERUSE INJURIES OF THE UPPER EXTREMITIES

Rehabilitation of overuse injuries requires the health care professional to understand normal and common pathologic mechanics of the patient's sport or physical activity. Evaluation of the total mechanics of the body, not just the local area presenting with discomfort, is important. [figure: see text] The cause of the presenting injury can be a dysfunction at a distant site. Rest and supportive devices are helpful in allowing the athlete to return to a normal activity level. A progressive reconditioning program needs to address strength and flexibility issues and endurance and eccentric exercises.