cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tension between Social Mission and Market Orientation: Free Admissions at Arts Organizations

Nonprofit arts and culture organizations are increasingly expected to advance higher order social values befitting a social enterprise. This recent emphasis on higher order social values stems from...
Tunable Shape Memory Polymers from α-Amino Acid-Based Poly(ester urea)s

The thermal shape memory behavior of poly(ester urea)s (PEUs) composed of varying α-amino acids and linear diols has been explored. The thermal, mechanical, and shape memory properties of PEUs are shown to be controlled by changing the amino acid and diol components of the polymer, without negatively affecting the shape memory performance of the polymer in most cases. These materials display triple-shape memory behavior and temperature memory properties due to a broad glass transition temperature interval. The versatility of the shape memory behavior of PEUs was explored by demonstrating shape transformations of thin films, salt leached scaffolds, and larger constructs. Overall good shape memory behavior in combination with the tunable properties of PEU materials makes them prime candidates for use as shape memory materials in biomedical applications.
Effect of Training Program on Total Body Reaction Time of Individuals of Low Fitness

Abstract Twenty-six low fitness subjects were tested for total body reaction time, strength, agility, and explosive power and then retested on these items seven weeks later. During the intervening six-week period, the subjects participated in a vigorous training program consisting of four 30-minute sessions per week. Statistically significant improvements were displayed in all items tested following the training program.
Integrin α6β4 Upregulates Amphiregulin and Epiregulin through Base Excision Repair-Mediated DNA Demethylation and Promotes Genome-wide DNA Hypomethylation

Aberrant DNA methylation patterns are a common theme across all cancer types. Specific DNA demethylation of regulatory sequences can result in upregulation of genes that are critical for tumor development and progression. Integrin α6β4 is highly expressed in pancreatic carcinoma and contributes to cancer progression, in part, through the specific DNA demethylation and upregulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligands amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG). Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) revealed that integrin α6β4 signaling promotes an overall hypomethylated state and site specific DNA demethylation of enhancer elements within the proximal promoters of AREG and EREG. Additionally, we find that the base excision repair (BER) pathway is required to maintain expression of AREG and EREG, as blocking DNA repair molecules, TET1 GADD45A, TDG, or PARP-1 decreased gene expression. Likewise, we provide the novel finding that integrin α6β4 confers an enhanced ability on cells to repair DNA lesions and survive insult. Therefore, while many known signaling functions mediated by integrin α6β4 that promote invasive properties have been established, this study demonstrates that integrin α6β4 can dramatically impact the epigenome of cancer cells, direct global DNA methylation levels toward a hypomethylated state, and impact DNA repair and subsequent cell survival.
CALCULATING THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENT OF UNSTEADY HOMOGENEOUS OIL-GAS FLOW

It is important to compute the heat transfer coefficient in a phase-change flow and enhance the empirical correlations to approximate the performance in many applications. In this work, the heat transfer coefficient of homogeneous two-phase flow with unsteady-state in vertical tube has been studied. The model that used to predict the flow pattern and the heat transfer coefficient for various flow velocities is determined theoretically. Some empirical relations are enrolled in order to find the fluid properties. The results are compared with that obtained experimentally and show responsible values. It is observed that the variation of heat transfer coefficient have been more oscillated and complicated as the flow velocity is increasing. This behavior could not be observed if the flow assumed as single flow, especially when the fluid seems to be gas. However, the theoretical value of void fraction has an average percentage difference ranges between (10-22) % to that obtained experimentally. While, the theoretical value of heat transfer coefficient has an average percentage difference ranges between (10-15) % to that obtained experimentally.
TASK-FREE MAGNETIC RESONANCE BRAIN IMAGING DISTINGUISHES ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE FROM HIV-DISEASE VIA SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINE CLASSIFICATION

Author(s): Shattuck, Kyle; Magnus, Manya; Hassanzadeh, Shiva; Kumar, Princy; Young, Mary; Rebeck, G William; VanMeter, John W; Moore, David J; Ellis, Ronald J; Turner, Raymond Scott; Jiang, Xiong
Reversible silencing of lumbar spinal interneurons unmasks a task-specific network for securing hindlimb alternation

Neural circuitry in the lumbar spinal cord governs two principal features of locomotion, rhythm and pattern, which reflect intra- and interlimb movement. These features are functionally organized into a hierarchy that precisely controls stepping in a stereotypic, speed-dependent fashion. Here, we show that a specific component of the locomotor pattern can be independently manipulated. Silencing spinal L2 interneurons that project to L5 selectively disrupts hindlimb alternation allowing a continuum of walking to hopping to emerge from the otherwise intact network. This perturbation, which is independent of speed and occurs spontaneously with each step, does not disrupt multi-joint movements or forelimb alternation, nor does it translate to a non-weight-bearing locomotor activity. Both the underlying rhythm and the usual relationship between speed and spatiotemporal characteristics of stepping persist. These data illustrate that hindlimb alternation can be manipulated independently from other core features of stepping, revealing a striking freedom in an otherwise precisely controlled system.
Gene flow and its consequences in Sorghum spp.

ABSTRACTGene flow between crops and their weedy or wild relatives can be problematic in modern agricultural systems, especially if it endows novel adaptive genes that confer tolerance to abiotic an...
Longitudinal Associations of Smoke-Free Policies and Incident Cardiovascular Disease: CARDIA Study.

Background: Smoke-free legislation has been associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease hospital admissions in ecological studies. However, prior studies lacked detailed information on in...
Glycemic impact of non-nutritive sweeteners: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNSs) are zero- or low-calorie alternatives to nutritive sweeteners, such as table sugars. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted to quantitatively synthesize existing scientific evidence on the glycemic impact of NNSs. PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched. Two authors screened the titles and abstracts of candidate publications. The third author was consulted to resolve discrepancies. Twenty-nine randomized controlled trials, with a total of 741 participants, were included and their quality assessed. NNSs under examination included aspartame, saccharin, steviosides, and sucralose. The review followed the PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate and track the trajectory of blood glucose concentrations over time after NNS consumption, and to test differential effects by type of NNS and participants’ age, weight, and disease status. In comparison with the baseline, NNS consumption was not found to increase blood glucose level, and its concentration gradually declined over the course of observation following NNS consumption. The glycemic impact of NNS consumption did not differ by type of NNS but to some extent varied by participants’ age, body weight, and diabetic status. NNS consumption was not found to elevate blood glucose level. Future studies are warranted to assess the health implications of frequent and chronic NNS consumption and elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms.
Using a Hybrid Technology Acceptance Model to Explore How Security Measures Affect the Adoption of Electronic Health Record Systems

While the adoption of computer systems is pervasive in most industries, few healthcare organizations have implemented electronic health record systems. Security is a major issue for these healthcare organizations. Security concerns include breaches of privacy and medical identity theft. This article uses a hybrid technology acceptance model (TAM) to explore why healthcare organizations are slow to adopt an EHR and slower to adopt biometric technology and single sign-on functionality despite the benefits of these systems. This paper advocates that healthcare organizations should adopt biometrics for authentication purposes, allow for multiple connections by each healthcare provider, and use single sign-on systems when implementing EHR systems. This research will also determine how costs, compliance issues, and security issues impact an individual’s attitude when asked to use EHR systems.
Sphingosine and Sphingosine 1 Phosphate in the Brain

Sphingosine is an 18-carbon amino alcohol with an unsaturated hydrocarbon chain. It is found in sphingolipids (cerbroside, sulfatide, and ganglioside) as well as phospholipid (sphingomyelin) (Fig. 9.1). Sphingomyelin (SM) is the major membrane sphingolipid and is the precursor for ceramide and sphingosine. Like ceramide, sphingosine not only regulates activities of phospholipases (PLA2, PLC, and PLD), and protein kinases (PKC and PKA), but also ion channels, CB1 receptors, and SF1 nuclear receptors (Fig. 9.2).
Genetics of Host Specific Nodulation by Bradyrhizobium Japonicum

Rapid progress has been made in identifying and characterizing nodulation genes in Bradyrhizobium japonicum. The results of this research indicate that many similarities exist between Bradyrhizobium and the taxonomically distinct Rhizobium spp. However, clear differences are also emerging. Unique nod genes have recently been identified in B. japonicum and further DNA sequence data suggest that this list will grow. Further examination of Bradyrhizobium genetics focusing on these differences will greatly add to and broaden our understanding of the molecular mechanism of (Brady)Rhizobium-plant interaction.
Robotic surgical rehearsal on patient-specific 3D-printed skull models for stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG)

Medically refractory epilepsy patients commonly require surgical alternatives for diagnosis and treatment. Stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) is a useful diagnostic procedure in seizure focus elucidation. Modern techniques involve the use of robotics and neuronavigation for SEEG. A steep learning curve combined with multiple complex technologies employed during the case makes this procedure a perfect candidate for surgical rehearsal. This paper tests the feasibility of the use of patient-specific 3D-printed model for surgical rehearsal of robotic SEEG. A 3D-printed model was created using the patient’s cranial computed tomography and computed tomography angiography radiological imaging. A rehearsal in an operating room (OR) prior to the actual procedure date was used for surgical planning of SEEG electrodes, education of the residents and fellows as well as training of the support staff. Attention was paid to assure precise recreation of the surgical procedure. The patient-specific 3D-printed model tolerated each step of the procedure from facial registration, to drilling, bolt insertion and lead placement. Accuracy of the designed trajectory to the electrode final position was visually confirmed at the end of procedure. Important modification to the plan of eventual surgery improved the efficiency of the real operation. For surgical planning, education and training purposes in robotic SEEG, 3D-printed models may be utilized as a realistic anatomy tool. Potential applications of this technique include trajectory feasibility evaluation, patient positioning optimization, increasing OR efficiency, as well as neurosurgical education and patient counseling.
Independent role of neonatal seizures in subsequent neurological outcomes: a population-based study.

AIM This population-based study aimed to estimate the impact of neonatal seizures on subsequent neurological outcomes, regardless of underlying etiology. METHOD We performed a retrospective cohort study (1st January 2009-31st December 2014), using a USA nationwide claims database. Newborn infants enrolled in 2009 were followed for up to 6 years. Neonatal seizures were identified by combining the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis code of 779.0 (convulsions in newborn), procedure codes of electroencephalogram and brain imaging, and antiepileptic drugs claims. Cox regression models were built to estimate the independent impact of neonatal seizures on developing epilepsy, intellectual disability, psychiatric/behavioral disorders, and headache. RESULTS Out of 490 071 newborn infants (251 850 males [51.4%], 238 221 females [48.6%]), 800 neonatal seizure cases were identified. After controlling for sex, birthweight, preterm birth status, and underlying etiology, neonates with seizures were more likely to have epilepsy (hazard ratio=32.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]=27.7-38.7; p<0.001), intellectual disability (hazard ratio=2.0; 95% CI=1.8-2.3; p<0.001), and headache (hazard ratio=1.6; 95% CI=1.1-2.2; p=0.013) than those without seizures. INTERPRETATION Observed covariates being equal, seizures in neonates appeared to play a significant role in developing epilepsy, intellectual disability, and headache. The findings showed a detrimental impact of the event in the very early life on neurological outcomes in later life. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Seizures had their own impact on the development of adverse neurological outcomes. The magnitude of impact was quite large in epilepsy.
Surgical Management of Achalasia: Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy

The laparoscopic Heller myotomy is the gold standard therapy for patients with achalasia. All newly diagnosed patients fit to undergo surgery should be considered for this procedure. All patients should have a preoperative medical assessment, and the surgical team should be aware of the risk of aspiration at the time of induction. The procedure begins by mobilizing the entire hiatus, taking care to preserve any accessory left hepatic vessels and vagus nerves. The myotomy is begun 1–2 cm above the GE junction, and the submucosal plane is entered. The muscular fibers are avulsed carefully between graspers for at least 5 cm above the GE junction and 2 cm below. Intraoperative endoscopy is used to confirm adequate length and depth of the myotomy as well as rule out perforation. A partial fundoplication is performed to prevent postoperative reflux. While not a cure for the underlying motility disorder, the Heller myotomy offers excellent long-term relief of dysphagia with >90% patient satisfaction at 10 years after surgery.
A robotic neck brace to characterize head-neck motion and muscle electromyography in subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Objective This paper presents the first study where a dynamic neck brace was used to characterize the head motion of ALS patients while concurrently recording the surface electromyography (EMG) of the neck muscles. Methods Eleven ALS patients and 10 age-matched healthy controls consented and participated in an experiment. Each participant was asked to perform three single-plane motions of the head-neck that included flexion-extension in the sagittal plane, lateral bending in the coronal plane, and axial rotation in the transverse plane. Each motion was performed in a cycle and was repeated five times at self-selected speeds. Results During single-plane flexion-extension under gravity, compared to healthy peers, ALS patients showed a shorter duration to reach the maximum flexion and an earlier EMG onset in the neck extensors starting from the neutral. The brace measures in activation of the neck muscles in ALS patients were well correlated with clinically measured scores, such as the ALSFRS-r and the FVC. The activation duration of sternocleidomastoid, used to rotate the head, correlated well with the ALSFRS-r and FVC in ALS patients during axial rotation. Interpretation The ability to synchronously activate a pair of muscles to execute single-plane motions in ALS patients seems to have been compromised due to the disease and potentially results in head drop. The neck brace measures can be adapted in the clinic to complement self-reporting in ALS patients and used to assess the head drop and progress of the disease.
Federated Edge Computing for Disaster Management in Remote Smart Oil Fields

Oil & Gas (O&G) industry is extending the extraction operation to remote offshore sites. Cost-effective, efficient, and nature-friendly oil extraction is a challenging issue in these remote sites, due to the disaster-prone nature of oil extraction process and hurdles in accessing these sites. To overcome these difficulties, smart oil fields use numerous sensors (e.g., pipeline pressure, gas leakage, temperature sensors) and can generate more than a terabyte of data per day. The data are transferred to cloud datacenters via high-latency and unstable satellite communication, which is not suitable for latency-intolerant (urgent) disaster-related tasks. Edge computing can be deployed in oil rigs to process the latency-intolerant tasks, however, processing capacity of an edge system falls short at the time of a disaster—when several coordinated activities must be processed within a short time. To address this shortage, we propose robust smart oil fields operating based on a federation of edge computing systems, provisioned from nearby/mobile micro datacenters. Our solution achieves robustness by capturing uncertainties exist both in communication and computation of the federated environment and allocating urgent tasks so that the likelihood of their on-time completion is maximized. Evaluation results reflect significant performance improvement (up to 27%) of the proposed solution when compared to conventional solutions for smart oil fields.
Standard Setting of Competency in Mastoidectomy for the Cross-Institutional Mastoidectomy Assessment Tool.

Objective:Competency-based surgical training involves progressive autonomy given to the trainee. This requires systematic and evidence-based assessment with well-defined standards of proficiency. T...
Trends in college students’ alcohol, nicotine, prescription opioid and other drug use after recreational marijuana legalization: 2008–2018

Abstract Background Young adult college students may be particularly sensitive to recreational marijuana legalization (RML). Although evidence indicates the prevalence of marijuana use among college students increased after states instituted RML, there have been few national studies investigating changes in college students’ other substance use post-RML. Method The cross-sectional National College Health Assessment-II survey was administered twice yearly from 2008 to 2018 at four-year colleges and universities. Participants were 18–26 year old undergraduates attending college in states that did (n = 243,160) or did not (n = 624,342) implement RML by 2018. Outcome variables were self-reported nicotine use, binge drinking, illicit drug use, and misuse of prescription stimulants, sedatives, and opioids. Other variables included individual and contextual covariates, and institution-reported institutional and community covariates. Publicly available information was used to code state RML status at each survey administration. Results Accounting for state differences and time trends, RML was associated with decreased binge drinking prevalence among college students age 21 and older [OR (95% CI) = 0.91 (0.87 − 0.95), p Conclusions In the context of related research showing national increases in college students’ marijuana use prevalence and relative increases following state RML, we observed decreases in binge drinking and increases in sedative use that both depended on age. Findings support some specificity in RML-related changes in substance use trends and the importance of individual factors.
Revitalizing the computer organization course with the Java virtual machine

This paper makes a case for the use of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) as the computer architecture of choice for the support of the computer organization course. First, given that the JVM exists for all well-known operating systems running on a multitude of hardware platforms, it is the most prevalent computer architecture in the world today. Secondly, given that the JVM is a virtual machine, it can be and is freed from the constraints of chip-based architectures. Thus, it can have simpler addressing modes, practically unlimited number of registers, and a better and cleaner design than most physical computer chips. A brief introduction to the JVM is provided and some coding examples are provided to show difference between assembly programming for the JVM versus assembly programming for the IA32 architecture.
Making Good Use of Your Limited Time: Supporting Novice Nurses

As novice nurses enter the workforce, they are supported by their organizations in multiple ways. During the transition period, they are developing efficiencies that are important as they become advanced beginner nurses and then competent nurses. It is important for nurses to receive support in their journey to competency to gain efficiency while providing quality patient outcomes. This article explores opportunities to develop efficiencies as nurses enter practice. There are opportunities in personal support and with system support. Nurse leaders support novice nurses by facilitating proper professional experiences and proper system support.
Novel Devices in Heart Failure: BAT, Atrial Shunts, and Phrenic Nerve Stimulation

Highlights •Heart failure represents an active area of novel medical device development. •Baroreflex activation therapy, interatrial shunts, and phrenic nerve stimulation are emerging technologies in heart failure. •Along with novel mechanisms of action and design, heart failure devices have demonstrated regulatory innovation. •Lessons learned in development of heart failure devices may apply to other therapeutic areas.
Selection of Heating Temperatures Improves the Sensitivity of the Proteome Integral Solubility Alteration Assay

The thermal shift assay is a robust method of discovering protein-ligand interactions by measuring the alterations in protein thermal stability under various conditions. Several thermal shift assays have been developed and their throughput has been advanced greatly by the rapid progress in tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomics. A recent paper by Gaetani et al. ( J. Proteome Res. 2019, 18 (11), 4027-4037) introduced the proteome integral solubility alteration (PISA) assay, further increasing throughput and simplifying the data analysis. Both ΔSm (a proxy of the difference between areas under the melting curves) and fold changes (ratios between integral samples) are readouts of the PISA assay and positively related to ΔTm (shift in melting temperatures). Here, we show that the magnitudes of these readouts are inherently small in PISA assay, which is a challenge for quantitation. Both simulation and experimental results show that the selection of a subset of heating temperatures ameliorates the small difference problem and improves the sensitivity of the PISA assay.
Benefits of Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

To the Editor Drs Gottlieb and Punjabi, in their Review on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA),1 stated that “current evidence suggests that treatment does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or metabolic abnormalities in asymptomatic patients.” Even though studies have failed to find a decrease in cardiovascular mortality in patients using continuous positive airway pressure (PAP), they have had significant methodological flaws, such as excluding patients with excessive sleepiness—precisely the patients who need continuous PAP therapy.2
The Engineering Dynamics Course Companion, Part 2: Rigid Bodies: Kinematics and Kinetics

Engineering Dynamics Course Companion, Part 2: Rigid Bodies: Kinematics and Kinetics is a supplemental textbook intended to assist students, especially visual learners, in their approach to Sophomore-level Engineering Dynamics. This text covers particle kinematics and kinetics and emphasizes Newtonian Mechanics "Problem Solving Skills" in an accessible and fun format, organized to coincide with the first half of a semester schedule many instructors choose, and supplied with numerous example problems. While this book addresses Rigid Body Dynamics, a separate book (Part 1) is available that covers Particle Dynamics.
Comprehensive Ex Vivo Comparison of 5 Clinically Used Conduit Configurations for Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement Using a 3-Dimensional-Printed Heart Simulator.

Background: Many graft configurations are clinically used for valve-sparing aortic root replacement, some specifically focused on recapitulating neosinus geometry. However, the specific impact of s...
Biomarkers for Progression in Diabetic Retinopathy: Expanding Personalized Medicine through Integration of AI with Electronic Health Records

The goal of personalized diabetes eye care is to accurately predict in real-time the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression and visual loss. The use of electronic health records (EHR) provid...
Immune checkpoint inhibitor induced hepatitis: Risk factors, outcomes, and impact on survival.

e14525Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have improved the survival of patients with multiple cancer types, however ICI treatment is associated with a unique set of immune-related adve...
Carnitine deficiency-induced cardiomyopathy

The results of clinical and animal studies suggest that a short term period of moderate secondary carnitine deficiency, in and of itself, does not have a major effect on the cardiac contractile function, although substrate oxidation may be altered. However, with longer durations of carnitine deficiency, alterations occur within the heart that may result in impaired contractile performance, particularly at high workloads. At this point, the mechanisms responsible for the cardiac depression are uncertain. We hypothesize that the alterations in substrate metabolism produced by the carnitine deficient state results in inadequate ATP production under high workload conditions which result in impaired cardiac contractile performance. Carnitine deficiency may also induce a number of changes in gene expression of key enzymes required for normal cardiac contractile function and metabolism.
Teenagers’ Public Library Needs are Difficult to Determine

Abstract Objective – To discover the attitudes of twelve to fifteen year-olds toward the public library. Design – Mixed methodology consisting of a survey and focus groups. Setting – An Eastern Canadian regional municipality. Subjects – Twelve to fifteen year-old middle school students. Methods – Using a disproportionate stratified sample and multistage clustering, the author mailed 900 surveys to middle school students; 249 surveys were completed and usable. Those students who completed the survey and who also indicated they would be willing to participate in a focus group were randomly selected to participate in nine focus groups with between 7 to 12 students in each group. Main Results – Discrepancies exist between the teens’ level of satisfaction with the library indicated on the survey (high) and expressed in the focus groups (low). Teens seldom use the public library due to: their non-existent relationship with library staff, although teens who were “active readers” used the library more; lack of appealing programs and program promotion; no teen-focused website; poor teen facilities within the library; and an overall failure of the public libraries to include teenagers. Conclusion – Public libraries need to be more responsive to teen needs to attract teens to use the library. To uncover these needs, libraries should use mixed methods of discovery.
CHAPTER 13 – Complex RLC Circuit Analysis

The chapter reviews the use of imaginary numbers, complex numbers, and j -operators to solve RLC circuits, which otherwise are difficult to solve using other methods. The total impedance of a circuit can be converted to its polar form to yield the magnitude of the impedance and the phase angle. The chapter concludes that one can perform the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of complex numbers in rectangular or polar form. These basic operations simplify complex impedances of AC circuits, and can be applied to phasor algebra techniques to solve voltage current and impedance values in a series RLC circuit. The results of the calculations are then used to draw the voltage phasor diagram. Analyzing and understanding the phasor diagram makes one realize that the circuit solutions are similar to results that are obtained with much simpler circuits.
Radio Recombination Lines at Millimeter Wavelengths in HII Regions

Radio recombination lines from HII regions involve much smaller principal quantum numbers at millimeter than at centimeter wavelengths. In this regime pressure broadening and partial maser effects are small and can usually be neglected. Free of these complications, millimeter-wave lines have been used to determine the electron temperatures of HII regions and to explore the atomic population processes for principal quantum numbers between 25 and 50. In general, observations appear to fit the transfer theory suggested by Goldberg (1966) with typical departure coefficients such as those calculated by Salem and Brocklehurst (1979).
Inhibition of neutrophil superoxide anion generation by platelet products: role of adenine nucleotides.

Previously, we demonstrated the stimulus-specific ability of platelet lysate or release products to inhibit neutrophil functions in response to f-met-leu-phe (fMLP) or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). The present study further characterizes these activities and Identifies one of the platelet inhibItors of neutrophil superoxide anion (O�) generation. Sephadex G-200 chromatography revealed two fMLP-specific inhibitory activities in platelet lysate. One component eluted with materials 200 kD). PMA-specific inhibitor(s) cofractionated at the void volume with the iysate’s fMLP-mnhibitoryactivity. Release products of activated platelets contained low-molecular-weight (<13 kD), fMLPspecific inhibitor activity but failedto demonstratePMA-specificinhibition of neutrophil
Parse, Price and Cut---Delayed Column and Row Generation for Graph Based Parsers

Graph-based dependency parsers suffer from the sheer number of higher order edges they need to (a) score and (b) consider during optimization. Here we show that when working with LP relaxations, large fractions of these edges can be pruned before they are fully scored---without any loss of optimality guarantees and, hence, accuracy. This is achieved by iteratively parsing with a subset of higherorder edges, adding higher-order edges that may improve the score of the current solution, and adding higher-order edges that are implied by the current best first order edges. This amounts to delayed column and row generation in the LP relaxation and is guaranteed to provide the optimal LP solution. For second order grandparent models, our method considers, or scores, no more than 6--13% of the second order edges of the full model. This yields up to an eightfold parsing speedup, while providing the same empirical accuracy and certificates of optimality as working with the full LP relaxation. We also provide a tighter LP formulation for grandparent models that leads to a smaller integrality gap and higher speed.
Advantage of optimizing V-V timing in cardiac resynchronization therapy devices.

Background: There is little consensus as to the benefits of interventricular (V-V) timing optimization in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). A variety of parameters are currently used to optimize device timing. This study was designed to investigate the potential advantage of using 3D ejection fraction (EF) and aortic velocity-time integral (VTI) as measures of global left ventricular (LV) function to optimize ventricular activation in CRT devices. Methods: Seventy-four patients seen in the Optimization Clinic with adequate echocardiographic images were included. Three aortic VTI and two 3D EF values were recorded at five V-V settings and the average value used. Aortic VTI and 3D EF were classified as the best, worst, and simultaneous setting values. Data were analyzed using a two-tailed paired t-test. Results: Comparing the best to worst V-V timing settings, VTI improved by 4.7 ± 7.5 cm (P < 0.0001) and 3D EF by 9.9%± 5.7% (P < 0.0001). Comparing the simultaneous setting to the best V-V timing setting, VTI improved by 2.4 ± 2.1 cm (P < 0.0001) and 3D EF by 3.8%± 4.9% (P < 0.0001). Aortic VTI improved in 85% of patients and 3D EF improved in 72%. However, only 26% of the patients had the same optimal setting using aortic VTI and 3D EF yielding an r2 value of 0.003. Conclusions: Individualized echocardiographic V-V optimization of CRT devices improves global LV function as measured by aortic VTI and 3D EF. Substantial differences in function were seen over an 80-ms range of V-V timing and optimization resulted in improved LV function in the majority of patients. (PACE 2010; 33:1161–1168)
Cisplatin–DNA adducts inhibit translocation of the Ku subunits of DNA-PK

We have determined the effect of cisplatin–DNA damage on the ability of the DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) to interact with duplex DNA molecules in vitro. The Ku DNA binding subunits of DNA-PK display a reduced ability to translocate on duplex DNA containing cisplatin–DNA adducts compared to control, undamaged duplex DNA. The decreased rates of translocation resulted in a decrease in the association of the p460 catalytic subunit of DNA-PK (DNA-PKcs) with the Ku–DNA complex. In addition to a decrease in DNA-PKcs association, the DNA-PKcs that is bound with Ku at a DNA end containing cisplatin–DNA adducts has a reduced catalytic rate compared to heterotrimeric DNA-PK assembled on undamaged DNA. The position of the cisplatin–DNA lesion from the terminus also effects kinase activation, with maximal inhibition occurring when the lesion is closer to the terminus. These results are consistent with a model for DNA-PK activation where the Ku dimer translocates away from the DNA terminus and facilitates the association of DNA-PKcs which interacts with both Ku and DNA resulting in kinase activation. The presence of cisplatin adducts decreases the ability to translocate away from the terminus and results in the formation of inactive kinase complexes at the DNA terminus. The results are discussed with respect to the ability of cisplatin to sensitize cells to DNA damage induced by ionizing radiation and the ability to repair DNA double-strand breaks.
Two Books Review

Book reviewed in this article: Doria Shafik Egyptian Feminist: A Woman Apart: Cynthia Nelson The Mobilization of Muslim Women in Egypt: Ghada Hashem Talhami
The relationship of the subarachnoid injection of blood and blood fractions with cardiac rate change and arrhythmias

The relationship of subarachnoid hemorrhage and cardiac arrhythmias was studied utilizing a Sprague-Dawley rat model. A total of 30 male animals were divided into five groups and given subarachnoid injections of either blood, blood fractions, or control substances. Blood pressure, intracranial pressure, serum electrolytes, arterial blood gases, hypothalamic multiple unit activity and an electrocardiogram were concurrently monitored. Cardiac arrhythmias were graded on a 0 to 4 + objective scale. Control parameter values were similar for all animals. Arrhythmias, hypotension, and decreased hypothalamic multiple unit activity were seen with infusion of whole blood and packed red blood cells. Packed red blood cells were statistically demonstrated to have the most potent arrhythmogenic effect. Cardiac histopathology revealed myocardial contraction band lesions most predominant in the packed red blood cell group. In addition, significant QT interval prolongation was observed after subarachnoid injection of either whole blood or packed red blood cells. These findings indicate that packed red blood cells, or a component thereof, may play an important role in the etiology of immediate (i.e. acute) post subarachnoid hemorrhage induced cardiac arrhythmias.
Effects of Sparse Long Chain Branching on the Spinning Stability of LLDPEs

Abstract The influence of sparse long chain branching on the onset and propagation of isothermal draw resonance in fiber spinning of polyethylene melts was investigated. Six polyethylene melts were used in this study: three sparsely branched metallocene polyethylenes, a linear low-density metallocene polyethylene, a conventional linear low-density polyethylene, and a conventional low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The sparsely branched metallocene polyethylenes have almost identical shear rheology and molecular weight distributions, but strain harden to different extents under extensional deformation because of slight differences in the amount of sparse long chain branching. Critical draw ratios and the ratios of minimum to maximum diameter were found to be different for each of these polyethylenes. The two linear low-density polyethylenes, which have no long chain branching, had critical draw ratios similar to those of the sparsely branched polyethylenes, but failed (necked to the point of filament breakag...
Structural biology: Form and function instructions

How much and what kind of information is required to fold a chain of amino acids into a functioning protein? It seems the problem may not be as daunting as once thought — the solution is in the coevolution data. It is widely believed that a protein's amino acid sequence contains all the information needed to dictate its structure, but exactly what information is both necessary and sufficient for generating a folded, functional protein is not clear. Two papers by Rama Ranganathan and co-workers tackle this question using computational protein design to construct artificial WW domains, small proteins of approximately 40 amino acid residues that bind to proline-rich sequences. The synthetic proteins adopt the characteristic WW structure and recognize typical WW target sequences. Since the information used in designing these proteins was obtained from multiple sequence alignments only, with no prior knowledge of three-dimensional structure, it is clear that for some proteins, a relatively small quantity of sequence information is sufficient to specify the complex amino acid interactions that make up a functional protein.
Effects of gamma radiation on stem diameter growth, carbon gain and biomass partitioning in Helianthus annuus

Abstract To determine the effects of gamma radiation on stem diameter growth, carbon gain, and biomass partitioning, 19-day-old dwarf sunflower plants (Helianthus annuus, variety NK894) were given variable doses (0–40 Gy) from a60Co gamma source. Exposure of plants to gamma radiation caused a significant reduction in stem growth and root biomass. Doses as low as 5 Gy resulted in a significant increase in leaf density, suggesting that very low doses of radiation could induce morphological growth changes. Carbohydrate analysis of plants exposed to 40 Gy demonstrated significantly more starch content in leaves and significantly less in stems 18 days after exposure compared with control plants. In contrast, the carbohydrate content of the roots of plants exposed to 40 Gy was not significantly different from non-irradiated plants 18 days after exposure.
High speed photography and photonics applications: An underutilized technology

Paisley describes the development of high-speed photography including the role of streak cameras, fiber optics, and lasers. Progress in this field has created a powerful tool for viewing such ultrafast processes as hypersonic events and ballistics.
Connecting Visitors to People and Place: Visitors’ Perceptions of Authenticity at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona

This study examines the effect of visitors’ characteristics, motivations and sense of place attachment on perceptions of authenticity at a cultural heritage site. Data were collected in summer and fall 2006 through an on-site survey questionnaire administered to a random sample of visitors to Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona ( n = 379; 76% response rate). The most important motives for visiting were ‘To enjoy nature’ and ‘To experience Navajo culture’. Additionally, visitors perceived a strong sense of place identity but a weaker sense of place dependence. Preservation of the archaeological resources was the most important contributor towards an authentic experience, followed by learning about customs and values of local people, meeting local people and visiting with an authorised Navajo guide. Attending interpretive programmes contributed the least. Results show that motivation to experience Navajo culture, the place identity dimension of place attachment, educational attainment, age and past ...
Depreciation of housing capital, maintenance, and house price inflation: Estimates from a repeat sales model

Abstract The rate at which physical capital depreciates is fundamental to investment in the economy. Nevertheless, although housing capital accounts for one-third of the total capital stock, the rate at which housing capital depreciates has only rarely been directly estimated, in part because prior studies do not control for maintenance. For that same reason, widely publicized measures of house price appreciation overstate the capital gain from homeownership. Using data from the American Housing Survey we examine these issues. Over the 1983 to 2001 period, results indicate that gross of maintenance, housing depreciates at roughly 2.5 percent per year, while net of maintenance, housing depreciates at approximately 2 percent per year. Moreover, although the typical home appreciated at an annual real rate of roughly 0.75 percent, after allowing for depreciation and maintenance, the average homeowner experienced little capital gain.
Information gathering: The information behaviors of line-managers within a business environment

The information needs faced by managers are not always clear and straightforward. Therefore, the motivation behind a manager's information gathering behavior is not easily defined. In this research study it is suggested that managers have a tendency to seek and accumulate information for which they have no explicit or known need. This tendency to accumulate informatio enables managers to behave as they do, for example, making rapid decisions, jumping from problem to problem and foregoing the formal information search process that non-managers may follow when seeking to close a gap in knowledge. Three hypotheses will be empirically tested by statistically comparing line managers to non-managers. A questionnaire is used to gather quantitative data on the line-managers' perceptions and information behaviors. The results offer some evidence to the difference in behavior between managers and non-managers.
Is lupus a syndrome or a disease

Does it matter whether we call lupus a disease or a syndrome? Because both conditions can be rigorously defined, this has little effect on uniformity of entry criteria for clinical trials. However, because diseases are the product of a single pathophysiologic mechanism, and syndromes are not, whether lupus is a disease or a syndrome does have broad ramifications. For example, looking for the "cause" or the "cure" for lupus involves a disease-specific conceptual framework, whereas, for syndromes we investigate risk factors and treatment modalities. On the basis of current laboratory data, we contend that lupus is a syndrome and only has candidate status as a disease. This helps to explain heterogeneity in results of studies of therapeutic agents and laboratory investigations of etiology. Patients, funding organizations, and lay support groups need to be aware of this distinction to reduce unrealistic expectations.
Estimating Process Capability Indices for a Truncated Distribution

Truncated data is a common occurrence in many industrial processes. This is particularly true in the situation of a supplier that has several customers, each with different specifications on the same product. Each customer will typically only observe a ..
A facile one-step method of coating aluminum on multiwall carbon nanotubes

Abstract Molten aluminum has very low tendency to wet carbon nanotubes (CNTs) due to the large difference of surface tension forces, which is the major issue in the liquid phase processing of Al-CNTs composite. Here in this study, a simple approach is presented to coat aluminum on CNTs using potassium hexafluorotitanate. During the process, titanium carbides were formed on the surface of the nanotubes providing wetting sites to coat aluminum in the liquid phase. These coated nanotubes could be used as a precursor, for not only liquid phase process but also for solid phase processing, to fabricate Al-CNTs composites.
Older adults and mobile phones for health

Graphical abstractDisplay Omitted We review the use of mobile phones for health applied to older adults.The field emerging field contains many feasibility studies with smaller samples.A variety of clinical domains are appropriate for mobile phone interventions.Future work should address generalizability and establish a stronger evidence base. ObjectiveTo report on the results of a review concerning the use of mobile phones for health with older adults. MethodsPubMed and CINAHL were searched for articles using "older adults" and "mobile phones" along with related terms and synonyms between 1965 and June 2012. Identified articles were filtered by the following inclusion criteria: original research project utilizing a mobile phone as an intervention, involve/target adults 60years of age or older, and have an aim emphasizing the mobile phone's use in health. ResultsTwenty-one different articles were found and categorized into ten different clinical domains, including diabetes, activities of daily life, and dementia care, among others. The largest group of articles focused on diabetes care (4 articles), followed by COPD (3 articles), Alzheimer's/dementia Care (3 articles) and osteoarthritis (3 articles). Areas of interest studied included feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness. While there were many different clinical domains, the majority of studies were pilot studies that needed more work to establish a stronger base of evidence. ConclusionsCurrent work in using mobile phones for older adult use are spread across a variety of clinical domains. While this work is promising, current studies are generally smaller feasibility studies, and thus future work is needed to establish more generalizable, stronger base of evidence for effectiveness of these interventions.
Intrinsic size parameters for palmitoylated and carboxyamidomethylated peptides

Abstract Cross sections for 61 palmitoylated peptides and 73 cysteine-unmodified peptides are determined and used together with a previously obtained tryptic peptide library to derive a set of intrinsic size parameters (ISPs) for the palmitoyl (Pal) group (1.26 ± 0.04), carboxyamidomethyl (Am) group (0.92 ± 0.04), and the 20 amino acid residues to assess the influence of Pal- and Am-modification on cysteine and other amino acid residues. These values highlight the influence of the intrinsic hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature of these modifications on the overall cross sections. As a part of this analysis, we find that ISPs derived from a database of a modifier on one amino acid residue (Cys Pal ) can be applied on the same modification group on different amino acid residues (Ser Pal and Tyr Pal ). Using these ISP values, we are able to calculate peptide cross sections to within ±2% of experimental values for 83% of Pal-modified peptide ions and 63% of Am-modified peptide ions. We propose that modification groups should be treated as individual contribution factors, instead of treating the combination of the particular group and the amino acid residue they are on as a whole when considering their effects on the peptide ion mobility features.