cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Luteal phase treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder improves symptoms that continue into the postmenstrual phase

Abstract Background Despite the proven efficacy of luteal phase medication dosing for women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), it is not known whether this approach adequately treats symptoms that linger into the first 2–3 days of the follicular phase, a time when up to one-third of women diagnosed with PMDD report residual symptoms. Furthermore, no previous study has explored whether abruptly stopping medication after 2 weeks of treatment is associated with discontinuation symptoms. Methods To evaluate the efficacy of luteal phase medication dosing, symptom data from the Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP) during first few days of menses were compared from two studies with similar designs but different treatment strategies. The first study used continuous dosing of sertraline, 50–150 mg/day, throughout the menstrual cycle, while the second study used intermittent dosing with sertraline, 50–100 mg/day in the 14–16 days prior to onset of menses. To investigate whether abruptly stopping pills led to discontinuation symptoms, DRSP data for the first 5 days after the onset of menses were analyzed in the second (intermittent dosing) study. Symptom scores were compared for subjects who took either sertraline or placebo premenstrually and ceased taking pills at the onset of menses. Results The baseline (pretreatment) to on-treatment effect sizes were similar for continuous vs. luteal phase dosing on the first day of menses (0.73 vs. 0.89), second day of menses (0.40 vs. 0.55), and third day of menses (0.42 vs. 0.44), respectively. Subjects who abruptly discontinued sertraline had fewer symptoms indicative of withdrawal at Day 3 ( p Conclusion Patients given active medication during the luteal phase demonstrate reductions in DRSP total scores into the first few days of menses regardless of whether active treatment was continuous throughout the menstrual cycle or was discontinued at the onset of menses. This analysis finds no support for discontinuation symptoms following abrupt cessation of sertraline after 2 weeks of treatment for two cycles.
Open acromioplasty: A deltoid-sparingapproach

Abstract The details to master in performing an open acromioplasty are easy to learn, and, therefore, the learning curve isshort. This becomes a very easy technique for the average surgeon and can be performed quickly and economically. The obvious built-in checks by palpation in the open technique give the occasional operator a high degree of confidence. Several improvements in the technique have evolved since the initial description by Neer. These changes have made it more acceptable to the patient and have lowered morbidity. The significant changes include (1) cosmetic skin incision, (2) deltoid split without weakening the origin, (3) reshaping the acromion with a burr rather than an osteotome, (4) no immobilization time, and (5) immediate and aggressive rehabilitation.
A Yersinia pestis-specific DNA fragment encodes temperature-dependent coagulase and fibrinolysin associated phenotypes

The effect of temperature on coagulase and fibrinolysin expression (Pla) by Yersinia pestis has been implicated in the transmission of plague by fleas. In an attempt to improve our understanding of this process, we have cloned, sequenced and characterized the gene encoding the Pla phenotypes in Y. pestis, and examined its temperature-dependent regulation. The coding region for this gene overlaps a 900bp Y. pestis-specific DNA fragment that we have previously shown to be capable of detecting plague bacilli in fleas. The pla gene contains a single open reading frame encoding 312 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of 34.7 kD and a putative signal sequence of 20 amino acids. This coding region appears to be sufficient for both coagulase and fibrinolytic activities. In Y. pestis, modulation between coagulase and fibrinolytic activities is temperature-dependent: coagulase activity is most evident at temperatures below 30 degrees C but fibrinolytic activity increases with higher temperatures (greater than 30 degrees C), regardless of the temperature at which the bacteria are grown. Our results lead us to believe that this regulation occurs post-translationally. It is possible that the alternative forms of the Pla protein are essential to 'flea blockage' and subsequent transmission of the plague bacillus to animals.
You Say You Want a Revolution: the Arab Spring, Norm Diffusion, and the Human Rights Regime

We discuss how the Arab Spring is a reflection of the resiliency of the human rights regime. In order to accomplish this, we explore the extent to which the Arab Spring represents norm diffusion among Middle East and North Africa (MENA) states. Specifically, we examine the cases of Tunisia, Egypt, and Bahrain and consider how economic and demographic changes created space for human rights discourse in these countries. We find that, in the case of MENA states, the Arab Spring represents significant pressure from below. Access to new forms of social media allowed civil society to organize, publicize, and protest relatively efficiently. Social media expanded the potential role of individuals and created newly empowered latent human rights activists who emerged as leaders of the norm diffusion process. The resulting diffusion of human rights norms in the Arab region represents one of the most significant expansions of the human rights regime since the regime’s inception.
Phase Equilibria in the Alkali Fluoride‐Uranium Tetrafluoride Fused Salt Systems: III, The System NaF–LiF–UF4

The phase equilibrium diagram of the ternary system NaF–LiF–UF4 described in this paper is based on evidence from thermal analysis and from microscopic and X-ray analyses of samples obtained from thermal gradient quenching experiments. Temperature-composition relations were established through the temperature interval between the liquidus and a lower limit of about 300°C. All the stable compounds in the binary systems LiF–UF4 and NaF-UF4, (including the subsolidus compound NaF·2UF4) display primary phase fields in the ternary system. No ternary compounds of NaF–LiF–UF4 occur. The following eutectics are to be found in the ternary system: 60 NaF, 21 LiF, 19 mole % UF4, 480°C.; 35 NaF, 37 LiF, 28 mole % UF4, 480°C.; 24.3 NaF, 43.5 LiF, 32.2 mole % UF4, 445°C.; and 24.5 NaF, 29 LiF, 46.5 mole % UF4, 602°C. The compounds 7NaF · 6UF4 and 7LiF · 6UF4 display limited solubility in each other. The exact limits of the miscibility gap in the 7NaF · 6UF4-7LiF · 6UF4 join have not been determined.
The series spectra of two-valence-electron atoms of phosphorus (PIV), sulphur (SV), and chlorine (ClVI)

Series spectra of two-valence-electron atoms of P, S, and Cl.—In a previous Paper(1), the regular and irregular x-ray doublet laws were used to predict the spectra of stripped atoms, that is, atoms having only one valence electron. The method has now been applied to the spectra of two-electron atoms, since, although these spectra consist of triplets or singlets instead of doublets, the same laws apply to them. In this way 23 lines of PIV have been identified, 17 lines of SV and 6 lines of ClVI. With the help of the Ritz equation, 12 term values of PIV and 8 of SV were also determined. In a table are collected all known term values for two-electron atoms of Mg, Al, Si, P and S. Physical significance of the x-ray irregular doublet law.—Spectral lines which give parallel curves on a Moseley diagram sqrt[ν/R] plotted as a function of atomic number) and which therefore follow this law, are produced by jumps between orbits of the same total quantum number but with different screening constants.
Thinking about possibilities

Some of the most striking findings in science are those that upend common wisdom: the Earth is not flat, the Sun does not revolve around the Earth, and heavier objects do not fall faster than lighter objects. In Lines of Thought, Lance Rips challenges a bedrock assumption in cognitive science, namely, that cognition is built up from perception. Psychologists often assume that perceptual information is the foundation for thought: prior sensory and perceptual experiences are the primitives out of which people form concepts, categorize the world around them, understand sentences and draw logical inferences.
The Effect of Dry Needling on Range of Motion of Neck Lateral Flexion in Subjects With Active Trigger Point in Upper Trapezius Muscle

Background: Myofascial trigger point is one of the most common causes of musculoskeletal disorders. Myofascial trigger point in upper trapezius has been reported as a symptom in patients with neck and upper thoracic pain. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dry needling compared with ischemic pressure on trigger point in upper trapezius muscle. Materials and Methods: 28 subjects with myofascial trigger point in upper trapezius participated in this study. The subjects were randomly assigned to two groups: dry needling (n = 13) and ischemic pressure (n = 15). The neck lateral flexion range of motion was measured before and after treatment in both groups using a standard goniometer. Paired t-test was used to determine any significant difference in range of motion after treatment sessions compared with pre-treatment score in control and experimental group. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was calculated to determine the significance of differences between the control and experimental groups in posttest scores, with pre-treatment scores used as covariates in the analysis. Results: Statistical analysis (paired t-test) revealed significant increase in neck lateral flexion range of motion in contra-lateral side after treatment sessions in control and experimental group compared with pre-treatment score (P < 0.05). However, only dry needling was effective in increase of range of motion in Ipsi-lateral side (P = 0.001). In the ANCOVA, controlling for pre-test scores, no significant difference was found between the two groups in the after treatment sessions (P = 0.06) and (P = 0.15). Conclusions: The application of DN produces an improvement in ILF and CLF can be prescribed for subjects with MTP in UT muscles.
How a Severe Winter Impacts on Individuals

Abstract The winter of 1977–78 was the worst, on the basis of both low temperatures and snow, on record in Illinois and many other areas of the Midwest. Representatives of 70 households in central Illinois participated in a detailed study of how the extreme cold and snow affected individuals. The average added cost was $93 per individual, largely to residences and vehicles, and extrapolation of this to all Illinois citizens results in an estimated statewide cost in excess of $1 billion. This was compounded by a wide variety of personal inconveniences, worries, extra work, and injuries. There were no deaths in the sampled group but 52 Illinoisans were killed by the 18 winter storms. For those living in rural areas beyond the city of their employment, costs and inconveniences were greater. The average individual cost was $120, and rural dwellers experienced more travel problems, move delayed services, and more absences from school and work.
Adjustment to the Death of a Companion Animal

AbstractAs pets provide many important benefits of a psychological, social, and physiological nature, loss of a companion animal can be a devastating event. The adjustment process, although similar to that experienced when a human dies, may be hindered by a lack of social support and opportunities for healthy confiding in others. In the current study, 49 adults completed questionnaires assessing grief experience, mood, physical symptoms, and new pet acquisition. Questionnaires were completed 2, 4, 8, and 26 weeks after the pet's death. Each time, subjects also wrote an essay in which they either confided details, thoughts, and feelings about the pet's death (confiding condition) or wrote essays on events unrelated to the pet (control condition). Results indicated that, with few exceptions, the grief experience associated with the death of a companion animal is similar to that associated with the loss of a significant human. Confiding had little effect upon the adjustment process, but individuals reporting...
Activity of Glutamate and Malate Dehydrogenases and The Malic Nzyme' During The Development of The Chick Spinal Cord

The specific activities of glutamate dehydrogenase (E.C. 1.4.1.2.), malate dehydrogenase (E.C. 1.1.1.37), and the ‘malic’ enzyme (E.C. 1.1.1.40) were measured in the brachial spinal cord of chick embryos ranging in development from 3.0 to 21 days' incubation. The specific activity for both dehydrogenases increased sharply from 10.5 to 16 days of incubation. These findings, when compared with other enzymatic and morphological studies suggest that increased TCA-cycle and amino acid metabolism are coincident with increased glycolysis during the period of morphological and functional maturation. The ontogenetic pattern of the ‘malic’ enzyme was characterized by a transient peak of activity at 7 days and a subsequent increase in activity from 10 to 15 days' incubation. A comparison of this data with that of other enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism led to the suggestion that the ‘malic’ enzyme may provide a source of NADPH for myelinization and may play a role in the regulation of glucose metabolism through the...
Simultaneous low-order control of a nonlinear quadrotor model at four equilibria

Four equilibria of a nonlinear quadrotor model are considered as a problem for simultaneous stabilization. Linearizations at these equilibria represent the operating modes corresponding to hover, vertical translation with any constant velocity, and horizontal translations with either any constant roll angle tilt or any constant pitch angle tilt. The linearizations at hover and vertical translation give rise to linear time-invariant systems to be stabilized. Each setting of constant roll angle or pitch angle gives rise to a different linear time-invariant system to be stabilized. Any finite number of such systems are shown be simultaneously stabilizable by simple, low-order and decentralized controllers with integral-action. Synthesis procedure for such controllers is described.
Gauge theory, anomalies and global geometry: The interplay of physics and mathematics

Summary Figure 5 diagrams the evolution of the anomaly from its origins as the triangle diagram’s anomalous contribution to neutral pion decay to its realisation as a Chern character of a line bundle over an infinite-dimensional manifold. The elegance and completeness of the latter picture inspired physicists to tackle the formidable task of gaining control over the machinery of global differential geometry. 6 s The unintegrated Adler-Bell-Jackiw anomaly appears as the second Chern character of the vector bundle associated to Q. 6 Physicists were of course not unanimous in this. L. Alvarez-Gaume and P. Ginsparg (1984) extend Fujikawa’s fermionic integral approach to treat the Bardeen anomaly, which they interpret directly in terms of the cohomology of the space of gauge transformations, without referring to an underlying geometric picture, Though they are well-versed in the work of Atiyah and Singer, and adopt the language of differential forms, their explicit aim is to by-pass the families index
Pressure alopecia following vitreoretinal surgery

Abstract Purpose To describe a patient with pressure alopecia following vitreoretinal surgery. Design Case report. Methods An 11-year-old boy underwent vitreoretinal surgery for left retinal detachment. One week postoperatively, his parents noticed a patch of alopecia where his head may have been in contact with the wrist-rest assembly placed around the head during the surgical procedure. Results Pressure alopecia on the parieto-occipital region of the scalp was observed. Hair regrowth occurred during the follow-up visits. Conclusion Pressure alopecia is a rare complication of lengthy surgery and is underrecognized in ophthalmic practice. Precautions should be taken to avoid this preventable complication.
The virtual voice: teaching modalities in voice and speech in online and traditional learning environments

The goal of this paper is to compare methods of teaching voice and speech in traditional and online formats. Trends in online and blended courses will be reviewed. Then, theoretical frameworks for ...
Introduction to Two-Part Panel on the Concept of the “Analytic Field”

This introduction highlights a few ways that the field concept is uniquely and commonly applied within various schools of psychoanalytic thought. The author touches on Stern's considerable capacity to examine underlying and sometimes masked similarities regarding the analyst's self-reflective participation in ostensibly different approaches to clinical psychoanalysis.
Clinical transplantation tolerance

Transplantation is the treatment of choice for many if not most causes of end-stage organ failure. Over 20,000 organ transplant procedures were performed in the USA in 2009 to treat patients with failed or failing kidneys, livers, hearts, lungs, and intestines, and there remain 85,000 individuals waiting on the transplant list. Currently, in the USA, there are over 170,000 individuals living with a transplanted organ. Virtually, all of these individuals receive maintenance immunosuppression in an attempt to maximize the function and survival of the transplanted organ. However, it is clear that the long-term use of immunosuppressive agents is associated with an extensive list of undesirable side effects that have the potential to limit the survival of the patient and transplanted organ as well as to compromise quality of life. Although the ability to induce reproducibly a state of robust, stable tolerance would address this problem, tolerance remains an infrequent event in clinical transplantation that is largely a consequence of chance. Factors limiting the broader investigation of clinical transplantation tolerance include the lack of therapeutic regimens known to favor tolerance in humans, the lack of validated assays or biomarkers predictive of tolerance, and concerns about the safety and ethics of complete withdrawal of immunosuppression given the very good results achievable with current immunosuppression. Despite these barriers, a number of investigators have continued to conduct well-designed and carefully supervised studies with the long-term goal of making clinical transplantation tolerance more feasible. The aim of this review is to summarize the status of these studies.
Fast Thin-layer Inversion (numerical And Laboratory Model Examples)

Summary Establishing layer thickness and layer properties from seismic data when the layer is smaller than an acoustic wavelength is a common problem in exploration geophysics. Many hydrocarbon reservoirs fall into this category, while estimates of their volume rely directly on our ability to resolve the thickness. Estimates of the world’s supply of methane hydrate are also based on our ability to measure the thickness of hydrate cemented sediments often in the 1-10 m range. In this abstract we demonstrate a very fast inversion method that solves for the layer thickness and layer properties of a thin layer from the seismic data. The signal from the thin layer is isolated (windowed) from the seismogram and converted to the reflection coefficient in the ω-p domain. The reflectivity based forward model calculates the reflection coefficient for a given layered earth model. The very fast simulated annealing inversion routine finds the layer properties by performing a global minimization of the L norm between the measured and modeled reflection coefficients. We present two demonstrations, a numerical example using synthesized data consistent with a DTAGS shot over a hydrate bearing sediment, and a laboratory physical modeling example where the model is a thin aluminum layer embedded in a Lucite background.
Stability of hydrocarbon-in-water emulsions during centrifugation. Influence of dispersed phase composition

Abstract The coalescence of emulsions of pure hydrocarbons in water stabilized by sodium dodecyl sulfate was studied during centrifugation in order to investigate the influence of composition of the dispersed phase on emulsion stability. The hydrocarbons used as the dispersed phase included n C 6 to n C 17 alkanes, benzene, and various n -alkylbenzenes. Emulsions containing equal volumes of hydrocarbon and aqueous phase were prepared using an aqueous solution of 8.0 × 10 −3 moles/liter of sodium dodecyl sulfate (the critical micelle concentration). The initial particle size of these emulsions was determined by microscopic observation, by the sodium alignate creaming method or by the Coulter counter method. A large fraction of the continuous aqueous phase was separated from the emulsion and all the hydrocarbon droplets were deformed into polyhedra very early during centrifugation. The mechanical stability of these emulsions was found to be dependent upon buoyant pressure, dispersed phase composition and properties and interfacial tension. Plots of φ, the fraction of stable emulsion remaining uncoagulated versus centrifugation time ( t ) for n -C 17 to n C 8 -in-water emulsions are fitted for all values of φ by the empirical equation φ = φ o t − n , where n varies from 0.14 to 0.17. The aromatic hydrocarbon-in-water emulsions showed a different behavior during centrifugation. These emulsions coagulated slowly during the first 20 min or more after which a drastic increase in coagulation rate was observed. The possible causes for the differences between n -alkane and aromatic emulsions behavior during centrifugation are discussed. The emulsion stability is inversely correlated with spreading coefficient of the hydrocarbon on the aqueous surfactant solution. Hydrocarbons with the most negative spreading coefficients produce the most stable emulsions.
AWE: improving software analysis through modular integration of static and dynamic analyses

AWE is a prototype system for performing analysis of x86 executables in the absence of source code or debugging information. It provides a modular infrastructure for integrating static and dynamic analyses into a single workflow. One of the major challenges with performing analysis of modern software is the amount of data that must be analyzed by a human to determine software behavior. This challenge is further compounded by the number of different tools and extensive expertise required to perform such analyses. The AWE system addresses this challenge in two ways: first by focusing analyst's attention on a prioritized subset of software features of importance, and second by simplifying analysis through an integrated static and dynamic analysis workflo.
Olfactomedin Domain-Containing Proteins: Possible Mechanisms of Action and Functions in Normal Development and Pathology

A family of olfactomedin domain-containing proteins consists of at least 13 members in mammals. Although the first protein belonging to this family, olfactomedin, was isolated and partially characterized from frog olfactory neuroepithelim almost 20 years ago, the functions of many family members remain elusive. Most of the olfactomedin domain-containing proteins, similar to frog olfactomedin, are secreted glycoproteins that demonstrate specific expression patterns. Other family members are membrane-bound proteins that may serve as receptors. More than half of the olfactomedin domain-containing genes are expressed in neural tissues. Data obtained over the last several years demonstrate that olfactomedin domain-containing proteins play important roles in neurogenesis, neural crest formation, dorsal ventral patterning, cell-cell adhesion, cell cycle regulation, and tumorigenesis and may serve as modulators of critical signaling pathways (Wnt, bone morphogenic protein). Mutations in two genes encoding myocilin and olfactomedin 2 were implicated in glaucoma, and a growing number of evidence indicate that other genes belonging to the family of olfactomedin domain-containing proteins may contribute to different human disorders including psychiatric disorders. In this review, we summarize recent advances in understanding the possible roles of these proteins with special emphasis on the proteins that are preferentially expressed and function in neural tissues.
Scattering Arrays For Matrix Computations

Several new mesh connected multiprocessor architectures are presented that are adapted to execute highly parallel algorithms for matrix alge-bra and signal processing, such as triangular- and eigen-decomposition, inversion and low-rank updat-ing of general matrices, as well as Toeplitz and Hankel related matrices. These algorithms are based on scattering theory concepts and informa-tion preserving transformations, hence they exhibit local communication, and simple control and memory management, all properties that are ideal for VLSI implementation. The architectures are based on two- dimensional "scattering" arrays, that can be folded into linear arrays, either through time-sharing, or due to simple computation wave-fronts, or due to special structures of the matrices involved, such as Toeplitz.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Distributed control in the textile industry

Abstract Automation requires that the number of variables monitored and controlled in a process be increased. Distributed multivariable control allows the flexibility to configure schemes of control that is impossible with conventional analog and direct digital systems. Redundant architectures in the distributed device, the data highways and the operator console increases the reliability to the level that makes analog backup unnecessary. Microprocessor-based Distributed Control Systems or DCS's use structured or menu-driven firmware rather than software so that “bugs” in programs are non-existent. This study demonstrates that, besides handling process control, DCS's have the ability to simulate multivariable control. This can enhance more rapid implementation of new controls for greater productivity. Increasing the number of monitored and controlled points increases the attractiveness of DCS's.
The sources of racial-ethnic group differences in college enrollment: A critical examination

The chapter begins by discussing why the continued underrepresentation of blacks and Hispanics in American higher education is a critical area for research, policy, and practice. The author then describes the expanded conceptual model and summarizes research support for the model.
Property-based assessment of soil mineralogy using mineralogy charts

It is essential to determine soil mineralogy as soils containing high amounts of smectites pose a hazard to geotechnical structures and increase susceptibility to soil erosion and landslides. The everyday use of analytical techniques in geotechnical engineering practice is considered expensive and time consuming. Prior studies suggest that physico-chemical properties of soil can be used to estimate the soil mineralogy. The current study evaluated specific surface area and liquid limit as possible parameters to estimate soil mineralogy. Mineralogy charts are introduced to estimate the percentage of montmorillonite, kaolinite, and illite in a sample. The degree of accuracy is highly dependent on the method used to determine the soil properties. Mineralogy ChartSSA yielded as accurate results as artificial neural network based models. Prediction of soil mineralogy based on liquid limit of the soil yielded a wide range of correlation coefficients between the measured and calculated values.
Development and experimental studies of a control-oriented SCR model for a two-catalyst urea-SCR system

Abstract This paper presents the development and experimental studies of a complete selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system control-oriented model of a two-catalyst SCR system with onboard NO x and ammonia sensors. SCR catalysts have been popularly regarded as effective means for NO x emission control in medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in recent years. However, control of urea dosing upstream of the SCR systems still remains a challenge in the field mainly due to the complicated SCR dynamics and limited/inaccurate feedback information. A control-oriented SCR model is thus indispensable for SCR control systems. A variety of experimental tests were examined using a Diesel engine-aftertreatment system consisting of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC)/diesel particulate filter (DPF), two-SCR catalysts (Fe-Zeolite type) in series, three NO x sensors, and two NH 3 sensors. By utilizing multiple emission sensors and the two-catalyst SCR setup, the sensor properties and SCR system dynamics were studied. Grounded in the experimental investigations and the physical insights, a control-oriented model for a complete SCR system was developed and validated with experimental data.
Monodisperse Linear Liquid Crystalline Polyethers via a Repetitive 2n Geometric Growth Algorithm

A simple and general stepwise procedure for the synthesis of linear monodisperse liquid crystalline (LC) polyethers with degrees of polymerization (DPs) up to 33 (Mn = 15 090) is presented. The particular examples used for this demonstration are based on the conformationally flexible mesogen 1-(4-hydroxy-4‘-biphenylyl)-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)butane (TPB) and flexible spacers containing 10 methylenic units. The synthetic algorithm employed is exemplified by two synthetic pathways and is based on the repetition of a synthetic cycle consisting of either five or three synthetic steps. After each cycle the molecular weight is doubled. The method is very versatile, as it allows the synthesis of a large library of compounds. Linear monodisperse oligomers with DP = 1, 2, 4, 16, 17, and 33 and with a variety of chain ends were synthesized. The dependence of the phase behavior of these oligomers on the nature of their chain ends and on their DP was investigated. The mesophase stability and range increase continuously w...
Another Look at the Future of Program Evaluation in the Federal Government: Five Views

Editor Comment:Chris Wye and Richard Sonnichsen left a Cracker Barrel session of the 1988 AEA Annual Meeting very concerned about the future of program evaluation in the federal government. At this session, past officers of the Association reflected on the "progress" AEA had made since its founding. They said they could understand why the word "progress" could be applied to the Association itself, but ... Here, let me let them tell you their thoughts:
Zinc as a potential enteroprotector in oral rehydration solutions: Its role in nitric oxide metabolism

Zinc has been recognized as an antioxidant with potential for chronic and acute effects. Oxidative damage produced by free radicals, including nitric oxide (NO), is responsible for certain types of intestinal malabsorption syndromes and diarrhea. Under physiologic or mildly stimulatory conditions for NO synthesis, the small intestine characteristically is in a proabsorptive state; however, an excessive production of NO triggers formation of cyclic nucleotides, which cause secretion and malabsorption. In this study, we hypothesized that low-molecular-weight, soluble zinc chelates could modulate the effects of induced NO excess on the small intestine. In vitro experiments demonstrated that zinc-citrate or zinc-histidine at ≥0.66 mM, as well as a known NO scavenger, 2-[carboxyphenyl]-4,4,4,4-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide, at 2 μM, were effective at removing chemically generated NO. In vivo jejunal perfusions, conducted in healthy rats under anesthesia, showed that c-PTIO reduced the proabsorptive effects produced by 1 mM l-arginine, the precursor of NO. In a standard oral rehydration solution, 1 mM zinc-citrate partially reversed the antiabsorptive effects on potassium caused by an excess of NO generated from 20 mM l-arginine but did not alter sodium or water absorption. The data are consistent with the view that soluble zinc compounds incorporated into an oral rehydration solution may deserve further attention as a means to scavenge NO with fluids used for the treatment of chronic or acute diarrhea, especially in malnourished children who are often zinc deficient.
Electrodeposited MnOx/carbon nanofiber composites for use as anode materials in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

Carbon nanofiber-supported MnOx composites were prepared by electrodepositing MnOx nanoparticles directly onto electrospun carbon nanofibers. The morphology and size of MnOx nanoparticles were controlled by the surface treatment of carbon nanofibers and the electrodeposition duration time. SEM, TEM/EDS, elemental analysis, and XRD were used to study the morphology and composition of MnOx on the nanofibers. The resultant MnOx/carbon nanofiber composites were used directly as the anode material in lithium half cells and their electrochemical performance was characterized. Results show that MnOx/carbon nanofiber composites prepared by different deposition durations have high reversible capacity, good capacity retention, and excellent structural integrity during cycling.
Zr inclusions in actinide–Zr alloys: New data and ideas about how they form

High-Zr inclusions are common in actinide–Zr alloys despite phase diagrams indicating that these alloys should not contain a high-Zr phase. The inclusions may contain enough Zr to cause significant differences between bulk compositions and those of inclusion-free areas, leading to possible errors in interpreting data if the inclusions are not considered. This paper presents data from high-Zr inclusions in a complex U–Np–Pu–Am–Zr–RE alloy. It is suggested that the high-Zr inclusions nucleated as high-Zr solid solutions at interfaces with high-actinide RE liquids, then unmixed to form nanometer-scale high-actinide sub-inclusions.
Process development for ball grid array assembly using a design of experiments approach

The focus of this work was to develop a robust assembly process for low and high input/output (I/O) ball grid arrays (BGAs). The test vehicles considered had a wide variety of components including full and perimeter array BGAs, and ultrafine pitch peripheral leaded devices. Experimental design techniques were applied in order to identify, screen, and control the parameters that affect the stencil printing process. The factors that affect the process were screened using Taguchi-based methodology. These significant factors and their interactions were then further analysed using full factorial designs. The volume and the quality of the solder paste deposits were considered as the response variables. Response surface plots were developed to provide process windows for paste deposition. Process capability studies were performed to evaluate the capability of the solder paste deposition process. Boards were assembled using optimal settings obtained from the experiments. No process-induced defects were found, and 100% yield was obtained.
Naftifine Treatment of Resistant Dermatophytosis

Despite an array of topical and systemic antifungal agents, cases of resistant dermatophytosis still exist. Use of naftifine, the first commercially available allylamine derivative, proved successful in the management of four such cases.
Understanding E-Business Success in Diverse Industries: Common Success Factors at Southwest Airlines and Micron Technology

ABSTRACT A successful electronic business model requires the proper combination of value proposition, target market, resources, and financial return, all within a technologically sound implementation. In this time of failing dotcoms, successes are rare and deserve serious analysis. This paper analyzes the robust and successful e-business approaches of two organizations from distinctly different industries–Southwest Airlines, a major U.S. airline, and Micron Technology, a global manufacturer of semiconductor products. Our investigation of these two organizations reveals that in spite of the diverse nature of their industries, a common set of factors contributed to their success. These common factors include an emphasis on an experimental and improvisational approach to all actions taken, empowered project teams possessing unique skills sets, a design philosophy of satisficing (just enough, when it is needed), all balanced with a strong customer focus.
Treatment of Complex Anal Fistulas with the Collagen Fistula Plug

Purpose Anal fistulas that involve a significant amount of sphincter may be difficult to treat without compromising continence function. In this study, we evaluated our experience with the Surgisis® anal fistula plug, which was recently reported to be successful in >80 percent of patients with complex fistulas.
Propagation of polarized light in birefringent turbid media: time-resolved simulations

A Monte Carlo model was used to analyze the propagation of polarized light in linearly birefringent turbid media, such as fibrous tissues. Linearly and circularly polarized light sources were used to demonstrate the change of polarizations in turbid media with different birefringent parameters. Videos of spatially distributed polarization states of light backscattered from or propagating in birefringent media are presented.
Biased Gene Conversion Skews Allele Frequencies in Human Populations, Increasing the Disease Burden of Recessive Alleles

Gene conversion results in the nonreciprocal transfer of genetic information between two recombining sequences, and there is evidence that this process is biased toward G and C alleles. However, the strength of GC-biased gene conversion (gBGC) in human populations and its effects on hereditary disease have yet to be assessed on a genomic scale. Using high-coverage whole-genome sequences of African hunter-gatherers, agricultural populations, and primate outgroups, we quantified the effects of GC-biased gene conversion on population genomic data sets. We find that genetic distances (FST and population branch statistics) are modified by gBGC. In addition, the site frequency spectrum is left-shifted when ancestral alleles are favored by gBGC and right-shifted when derived alleles are favored by gBGC. Allele frequency shifts due to gBGC mimic the effects of natural selection. As expected, these effects are strongest in high-recombination regions of the human genome. By comparing the relative rates of fixation of unbiased and biased sites, the strength of gene conversion was estimated to be on the order of Nb ≈ 0.05 to 0.09. We also find that derived alleles favored by gBGC are much more likely to be homozygous than derived alleles at unbiased SNPs (+42.2% to 62.8%). This results in a curse of the converted, whereby gBGC causes substantial increases in hereditary disease risks. Taken together, our findings reveal that GC-biased gene conversion has important population genetic and public health implications.
Pathogenic T cells in murine lupus exhibit spontaneous signaling activity through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways.

Objective To determine the activation status of two cytoplasmic signaling pathways, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family. Methods We studied the pathogenic CD4+ T cells that drive disease in the parent-into-F1 mouse model of lupus-like chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). We determined immunoprecipitated kinase activity for PI 3-kinase and MAPK members (Raf-1, extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1 [ERK-1], c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 [JNK-1], and p38 MAPK) from either unfractionated splenocytes or purified donor CD4+ T cells. Uninjected normal mice served as negative controls, and acute GVHD mice served as positive controls. Results Compared with negative controls, unfractionated splenocyte kinase activity from chronic GVHD mice was significantly increased for PI 3-kinase and JNK-1, but not for Raf-1, p38 MAPK, or ERK-1. Increased PI 3-kinase and JNK-1 activity was also seen in acute GVHD splenocytes, as was increased Raf-1 and p38 MAPK activity. The pattern of increased PI 3-kinase and JNK-1 activity seen in unfractionated chronic GVHD splenocytes was also seen in isolated donor, but not host, CD4+ T cells from chronic GVHD mice, indicating that donor CD4+ T cell signaling activity accounted for at least a portion of the activity observed in unfractionated splenocytes. Increased ERK-1 activity was not seen in either donor or host CD4+ T cells. This pattern of cytoplasmic signaling pathway in donor CD4+ T cells was associated with increased T cell receptor membrane signaling activation (Lck and Fyn phosphorylation) and increased transcription activation (phosphorylation of inhibitor of nuclear factor κB), confirming the biologic significance of these observations. Conclusion The pathogenic T cells driving disease in this murine model exhibit activation in the form of spontaneous cytoplasmic signaling pathway activity that can be detected without in vitro restimulation and involves a T cell–specific (PI 3-kinase) and a nonspecific stress/cytokine pathway (JNK-1). These results raise the possibility that a full characterization of the signaling pathways active in pathogenic lupus T cells might lead to new therapeutic targets.
Snapshots from sari trails: cyborgs old and new

In this paper, the author draws upon an examination of two apparently opposed cyborg locations and technologies to show how, in specific instances, globalization, technology, economics, culture and diasporas intersect. Such intersections produce very specific, situated contexts for productive labor forces to emerge at the interface of technologies ‘old’ and ‘new’. These situated contexts place the individual in relation to market forces and community production logics through which labor and affect are placed in hierarchies of digital globalization. The author does this by looking at how the ‘sari’ is produced, marketed and worn in two ‘cyborg’ contexts. One of the cyborg locations this article explores is online, the other is offline. By juxtaposing these ‘old’ and ‘new’ contexts of production and marketing a sari the author hopes to allow for issues to be raised that otherwise would be invisible.
Potential Barriers to HPV Vaccine Provision Among Medical Practices in an Area with High Rates of Cervical Cancer

Abstract Purpose Potential barriers to widespread vaccination of adolescent girls against human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are poorly understood. We provide an overview of potential barriers to provision of HPV vaccine and empirical data on the concerns of medical practices that may inhibit HPV vaccine provision. Method We conducted phone interviews with medical practices in rural areas in southeastern North Carolina with high rates of cervical cancer to assess 10 potential concerns about HPV vaccine provision. Results Concerns most commonly reported by medical practices (N = 71) were inadequate reimbursement (68%), high cost of the vaccine to patients (66%), and burden of determining insurance coverage (66%). Practices that were not providing the vaccine reported more concerns about HPV vaccine provision on average than practices providing the vaccine (6.0 vs. 4.5 concerns, p Conclusions Medical practices' concerns about the HPV vaccine may be barriers to stocking it and, thus, to providing it to adolescents. Even providers who stock the vaccine reported concerns. Research is needed to address ways to ameliorate these medical practices' concerns and also to understand other potential barriers to vaccine coverage.
Sex Differences in Salivary Cortisol Levels Following Naltrexone Administration1

Effects of endogenous opioid peptide blockade by naltrexone on salivary Cortisol levels were examined in healthy men (n= 8) and women (n= 6). Participants received naltrexone (100 mg) during one laboratory session and a placebo pill during another session. Drug order was counterbalanced across participants. Saliva samples were collected 24 hr after each pill was administered. Among women, salivary Cortisol levels significantly increased following naltrexone administration compared with a placebo pill. Naltrexone administration did not alter salivary Cortisol levels in men. Results suggest sex differences in neuroendocrine sensitivity to opioid blockade, a finding that may hold significance with regard to the treatment of alcohol addiction with naltrexone.
Risk Assessment for Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Resistance on Dual-Gene Versus Single-Gene Corn

Recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) decisions regarding resistance management in Bt-cropping systems have prompted concern in some experts that dual-gene Bt-corn (Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2 toxins) may result in more rapid selection for resistance in Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) than single-gene Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-corn (Cry1Ab toxin). The concern is that Bt-toxin longevity could be significantly reduced with recent adoption of a natural refuge for dual-gene Bt-cotton (Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab2 toxins) and concurrent reduction in dual-gene corn refuge from 50 to 20%. A population genetics framework that simulates complex landscapes was applied to risk assessment. Expert opinions on effectiveness of several transgenic corn and cotton varieties were captured and used to assign probabilities to different scenarios in the assessment. At least 350 replicate simulations with randomly drawn parameters were completed for each of four risk assessments. Resistance evolved within 30 yr in 22.5% of simulations with single-gene corn and cotton with no volunteer corn. When volunteer corn was added to this assessment, risk of resistance evolving within 30 yr declined to 13.8%. When dual-gene Bt-cotton planted with a natural refuge and single-gene corn planted with a 50% structured refuge was simulated, simultaneous resistance to both toxins never occurred within 30 yr, but in 38.5% of simulations, resistance evolved to toxin present in single-gene Bt-corn (Cry1Ab). When both corn and cotton were simulated as dual-gene products, cotton with a natural refuge and corn with a 20% refuge, 3% of simulations evolved resistance to both toxins simultaneously within 30 yr, while 10.4% of simulations evolved resistance to Cry1Ab/c toxin.
Technology-based security threats: taxonomy of sources, targets and a process model of alleviation

Development and innovative application of technology, as well as the integration of available technology, can provide an organisation with a unique opportunity to remain competitive in a global business environment. Although technology plays an important role in gaining competitive advantage for organisations worldwide, information technology professionals are becoming increasingly aware of the potentially harmful impact of misuse of information technologies. This paper provides a review of various technology-based threats and how they affect organisations. The paper further provides a taxonomy that depicts sources and targets of these threats and a process model to assist organisations in alleviating these threats. In addition to the five-stage threat alleviation model, a cause-and-effect diagram has been incorporated as a tool to help identify the sources of these threats as well as the potential outcomes of successful attacks. Organisations worldwide can use the taxonomy developed in this paper and the process to prevent these threats.
Role of Protein in Reverse Osmosis of Cottage Cheese Whey

Abstract Proteins accumulated at the membrane surface during reverse osmosis of Cottage cheese whey. Gel filtration and gel electrophoresis indicated that the major component was casein, but α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin were also present. The accumulation was in two forms—a gel-like deposit that resisted removal by fluid shear, and a viscous layer that was readily removed by flushing. The accumulated material reduced permeation rates. The accumulation was greatly reduced by increasing the flow velocity. The permeation rate data provided a basis for estimating the flow velocity at which formation of the protein layer is minimized.