cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Query transformation in heterogeneous distributed database systems

A heterogeneous Distributed Database Management system is organized as a federation of nodes with different functional capabilities and using different nodal query languages. The problem of query decomposition and translation is investigated and two approaches are identified as direct translation and a translation using an intermediate canonical language. The use of universal symbolic manipulation techniques instead of dedicated cross-translators to perform query transformation is suggested.
Physical and chemical properties of polypyrrole–carbon fiber interphases formed by aqueous electrosynthesis

The properties of carbon fibers modified by aqueous electrochemical synthesis of pyrrole has been determined by using the dynamic contact angle analyzer (DCA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Electrochemical process parameters such as the initial pyrrole concentration, electrolyte concentration, applied voltage, electrolyte type, and reaction time were systematically varied, and their impact on the polypyrrole–carbon fiber interphases surface free energy and morphology was ascertained. The surface free energies of the polypyrrole–carbon fiber interphases were obtained by using single fiber filaments. SEM analysis of the interphases revealed several distinct surface structures, including smooth, porous, granular, microspheroidal, and leafoidal morphologies. The noncoated but commercially surface oxidized carbon fibers have smooth surface morphology with occasional longitudinal striations. FTIR analysis of the polypyrrole interphases confirmed that the counterions derived from the electrolytes were incorporated into the film. The surface free energies of the electrochemically formed polypyrrole–carbon fiber interphases equivalent to 60–75 dynes/cm, was determined to be up to 40% higher than that for the surface oxidized but unsized carbon fibers equivalent to 50 dynes/cm. This improvement in the surface free energies of the polypyrrole–carbon fiber interphases suggests easy wettability by polymer matrices such as epoxy resin, γ ˜ 47 dynes/cm and, polyimide matrix, γ ˜ 45 dynes/cm. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Properties of the one-particle-displacement probability distribution in systems undergoing antiferrodistortive structural phase transitions

Using the Hartree approximation, a high-temperature expansion, and the molecular-dynamics technique, we study some properties of the one-particle probability distribution ${F}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})$ of the displacement ${U}_{x}$ of particle one in a model system. The system is two dimensional and subjected to constraints in such a way that it exhibits antiferrodistortive structural phase transitions. It covers the displacive and order-disorder regime, including the Ising and displacive limit. We present evidence that ${F}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})$ or its symmetrized analog ${\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{F}}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})=\frac{1}{2}[{F}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})+{F}_{1}(\ensuremath{-}{U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})]$, being a very useful property to elucidate the regime to which a particular antiferrodistortive transition belongs. In the displacive regime, the ratio ${a}_{s}=\frac{{\left(\frac{d}{d{U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}}}{\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{F}}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})\right)}_{max}}{{\left(\frac{d}{d{U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}}}{\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{F}}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})\right)}_{min}},$ for ${U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}}$ either negative or positive, is shown to diverge at some temperature ${T}^{*}$, because ${\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{F}}_{1}({U}_{x}^{\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{1}})$ exhibits for $Tl{T}^{*}$ a double-peak structure disappearing at $T={T}^{*}$. In the order-disorder regime, the ratio $\frac{{T}^{*}}{{T}_{c}}$ is infinite and decreases in the displacive regime by approaching the displacive limit to some value $\frac{{T}^{*}}{{T}_{c}}l1$. As M\"uller and Berlinger have shown, the key quantity ${a}_{s}$ can be measured, close to ${T}_{c}$ by means of the electron-paramagnetic-resonance technique.
IDENTIFICATION OF HLA-Dw14 GENES IN DR4+ RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Genes of the major histocompatibility complex, HLA, are associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the aetiology of this chronic inflammatory disease is not known. Synthetic oligonucleotide DNA probes were constructed to distinguish between two closely related but distinct alleles encoding the HLA-DR4 specificity in patients with RA. With these allele-specific oligonucleotide probes an uncommon DR4 genetic variant, Dw14, was identified in 6 of 7 RA patients homozygous for HLA-DR4. This allele may play an important part in susceptibility to RA.
Bioproducts Process Pathways for Kraft Paper Mills

Energy use in the United States is heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels. Finding a way to produce renewable fuels that can replace these fossil fuels will address national security threats, sustainability concerns inherent in the use of fossil fuels, and keep manufacturing in rural areas. An important alternative fuel for the near term is ethanol, and producing it from a cellulosic feedstock allows the fuel source to remain independent of the food chain. A solid body of research has made it clear that a brand-new stand-alone biorefinery using biomass is not cost-effective under current business conditions. In light of this, we have looked at the economic viability of a co-located facility, specifically Kraft pulp mills in the State of Maine. We have looked at the opportunity to utilize the “near-neutral” extraction process developed at the University of Maine, whereby Kraft pulp mills can begin to meet the demand for alternative fuels. By incorporating the near-neutral extraction process within the pulping process, ethanol and acetic acid can be produced as “first stage” products while still producing pulp, thereby expanding the product line of the pulp mill while addressing the need for finding alternative to petroleum feedstocks. This paper discusses both the near-neutral extraction process and a thermochemical process that can be utilized in a Kraft pulp mill based biorefinery to produce ethanol and acetic acid as initial products. We analyze potential investment and production costs for a biorefinery based on studies that have looked specifically at this type of evolution, as well as cellulosic biorefineries that are based on other types of processes. We also identify potential “second stage” fuels that could be produced, as well as the modes of transportation that can be used to get the fuels and products to the existing infrastructure.
Cancer and old age. An autopsy study of 3,535 patients over 65 years old.

A study of 3535 consecutive autopsied patients over 65 years of age showed that 1,149 patients (32.5%) had one or more cancers. Males were affected by cancer nearly twice as frequently as females in this elderly population (40.3% vs. 23.9%). There were more incidental neoplasms as age advanced. Among the common cancers, the most frequent incidental cancers were those of the prostate gland, kidney, and colon. Cancer tended to metastasize less frequently in the elderly. Several possibilities have been proposed to explain the paucity of metastases in later life.
Observation of the photogenerated CO-loss intermediate from [CpFe(CO)]2(μ-CO)(μ-CHCH3) via time-resolved IR spectroscopy

Nanosecond time-resolved IR (TRIR) measurements were performed for both [CpFe(CO)(μ-CO)]2 (1) and [CpFe(CO)]2(μ-CO)(μ-CHCH3) (4). The results obtained for 1 are consistent with those previously reported. The TRIR spectrum of 4 in cyclohexane at room temperature (λexc=355 nm) both under argon and in CO atmosphere is consistent with the formation of the triply-bridged intermediate [CpFe]2(μ-CO)2(μ-CHCH3) (5) that results from loss of CO. The IR absorption peaks observed at 1840 and 1808 cm−1 in the TRIR spectrum of 5 are similar to those previously reported in matrix isolation experiments and the lifetimes are consistent with published time-resolved data in the visible region. In addition, DFT calculations result in the calculated frequencies of 1842 and 1810 cm−1 for the predicted 3B2 ground state of the structurally related [CpFe]2(μ-CO)2(μ-CH2) complex.
Hypersensitivity to Mercuhydrin

Specific hypersensitivity to the mercurial component of meralluride sodium was induced by a series of intramuscular injections in 12 patients who were being treated for congestive heart failure. Reactions were characterized by fever and systemic symptoms and were precipitated in hypersentitive patients by minute amounts of the drug. No untoward effects resulted from administration of full therapeutic doses of two other mercurial diuretics. Reactions appeared to be modified or inhibited by the action of tripelennamine hydrochloride and British anti-lewisite (BAL); eventual disappearance of the allergic response was demonstrated in two patients.
Silmization of stainless-steel frits for use in trace metal analysis by high performance liquid chromatography

A simple method has been developed to minimize the interferences related to the metal parts of an analytical system used for trace metal analysis by HPLC. This is accomplished by blocking the exposed metal surfaces with an organosilane. The effect of the silanized stainless steel frits has been demonstrated by injecting diethyldithiocarbamate into columns with and without high metal surface area components. The coating of the silane is quite stable for routine use.
Reverse total shoulder replacement: intraoperative and early postoperative complications.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is a treatment option for patients with symptomatic glenohumeral arthritis and a deficient rotator cuff. The reported complication rates vary from 0% to 68%. Given this variation, our purposes were to (1) determine the learning curve for the procedure, (2) identify complications and surgical pitfalls, and (3) compare our results with those of similar published series. We retrospectively reviewed 20 consecutive patients (mean age, 73 years; range, 45–88 years) who had reverse total shoulder arthroplasty by one surgeon, tabulating intraoperative and postoperative complications. Minimum followup was 3 months (average, 9 months; range, 3–21 months). The intraoperative complication rate for the first 10 patients was higher than that for the second 10 patients. There were 33 complications in 15 patients: 11 patients collectively had 22 intraoperative complications and eight patients collectively had 11 postoperative complications. At radiographic followup, 11 patients had scapular notching and nine patients had heterotopic ossification. Our complication rate was higher than published rates. Level of Evidence: Level II, prognostic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A Sequel to AUSM

While enjoying demonstrated improvement in accuracy, efficiency, and robustness over existing schemes, the advection upstream splitting method (AUSM) has been found to have deficiencies in some cases. This paper describes recent progress toward improving the AUSM. We show that the improved scheme, termed AUSM+, features the following properties: (1) exact resolution of 1D contact and shock discontinuities, (2) positivity preserving of scalar quantity such as the density, (3) free of “carbuncle phenomenon,” (4) free of oscillations at the slowly moving shock, (5) algorithmic simplicity, and (6) easy entension to treat other hyperbolic systems. In this paper, we lay out a general construction for the AUSM+scheme and prove its heretofore unreported mathematical properties. Especially a CFL-like condition for positivity-preserving property is derived. This positivity-preserving proves to be tightly related to the capability of calculating strong rarefaction and near vacuum flows. Finally, results of numerical tests on many problems are given to confirm the capability and improvements on a variety of problems including those failed by other well-known schemes.
Dielectric constant reduction in silicon nanostructures

We performed a systematic measurement of the dielectric function of Si nanoslabs as a function of their thickness using spectroscopic ellipsometry from $0.73\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{eV}$ $(1700\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{nm})\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\text{to}\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}4.58\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{eV}$ $(270\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{nm})$. The Si nanoslabs were obtained by repeatedly thinning down the top Si layer in silicon-on-insulator wafers by successive oxidation and HF etching. As predicted by the theories, both real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function are reduced as the thickness decreases. The dielectric constant of $3.3\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{nm}$-thick nanoslabs measured at $0.73\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{eV}$, below the band gap energy of bulk Si, is reduced by $\ensuremath{\sim}13%$ (from 12 to 10.4) compared to the bulk value. The measured size dependence is in qualitative but not quantitative agreement with the most applicable theory.
How Culturally Scattered COINs are Reinventing the Design Process

Abstract As our world's economies continue to overlap and intertwine, designers are increasingly being called upon to re-invent their process in order to develop products, services and other things that are internationally relevant. Collaborative Innovation Networks (COINs) operating within a democratic, virtual environment are, by their very natures, forerunners in this transformation. It can even be argued that multicultural COINs are more effective at tackling design challenges with global import, than design teams whose members work in each other's physical presence. This paper examines necessary modifications to a Western construct of the Design Process uncovered by geographically and culturally scattered COINs working on projects together. The new precepts that govern this updated process will be discussed, from research and product definition through ideation, concept generation, design refinement and prototyping. Several current case studies illustrating the central role that COINs play in defining a contemporary design process will be discussed: Appendix A. How new medical devices appropriate for use in African hospitals are being designed by collaborative innovation networks with members in Uganda, the United States and Israel. Appendix B. How communities of blind users in Mexico, South Africa, Malawi, the United States and India helped define product specifications for a Braille writer using a process moderated by industrial designers. How collaborative innovation networks of design students in Mumbai, and Chicago were able to design culturally relevant products and services for each other's communities.
On the incubation distributions of the HIV epidemic

Abstract In this paper some general formula for the HIV incubation distributions are derived. These distributions are derived under two general models and are formulated in matrix functions. In special cases the results reduce to those in Longini et al. (1991, 1992).
Antibiotic Use and Misuse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Neonatal sepsis causes significant morbidity and mortality, especially in preterm infants. Clinicians are compelled to treat with empiric antibiotics at the first signs of suspected sepsis. Broad-spectrum antibiotics and prolonged treatment with empiric antibiotics are associated with adverse outcomes. Most common neonatal pathogens are susceptible to narrow-spectrum antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic and duration of empiric treatment are strongly associated with center-based risk factors. Clinicians should treat with short courses of narrow-spectrum antibiotics whenever possible, choosing the antibiotics and treatment duration to balance the risks of potentially untreated sepsis against the adverse effects of treatment in infants with sterile cultures.
The Utility of Nitric Oxide in the Postoperative Period

Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) is a pulmonary-selective vaso dilator with minimal bronchodilator activity in humans. NO also inhibits platelet and neutrophil activation and adhesion and inhibits ischemia-reperfusion injury. The pulmonary vasodilatory property of iNO causes a reduc tion in pulmonary vascular resistance and improvement in arterial oxygenation in a wide spectrum of diseases characterized by pulmonary hypertension and hypox emia. Promising examples of diseases for which NO may provide beneficial physiologic effects are primary and secondary pulmonary hypertension, right ventricu lar failure, cardiac transplantation, pulmonary embo lism, protamine reactions, acute respiratory distress syndrome, lung transplantation and, perhaps, chronic obstructive airways disease. The usefulness of iNO may be improved by concomitant therapy with pulmonary- selective intravenous vasoconstrictors (eg, Almitrine; Vectarian, Neuilly, France) and cGMP phosphodiester ase V inhibitors (eg, Zaprinast; Research Biochemica...
Historical Review: First Facial Pain Patient Admitted to Massachusetts General Hospital, February 1823 and First Case Series

Founded in 1811, the Massachusetts General Hospital recently celebrated its bicentennial. The War of 1812 delayed construction of the building so the first patient actually was admitted to the hospital 10 years later, on September 3, 1821. By 1823, the 60 hospital beds were full. Patient 66 was admitted on February 28, 1823, and his hospital course, as described in the admissions book, was transcribed for the Massachusetts General Hospital bicentennial celebration. That case history is reproduced and a case series of 6 similar patients published in 1828 by Dr John Warren, surgeon-in-chief and a founder of the hospital, is presented. In this report, the authors comment on the diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of these patients in the context of the contemporaneous health care environment and in light of the current knowledge of facial pain disorders. This article was adapted from the authors' commentary for the bicentennial celebration.
The effects of arsenate and arsenite on the growth and morphology of the marine unicellular algae Tetraselmis chui (Chlorophyta) and Hymenomonas carterae (Chrysophyta)

The marine phytoplanktonic algae, Tetraselmis chui Stein and Hymenomonas carterae (Braarud and Fagerland) Braarud, were grown in media containing various concentrations of arsenate or arsenite. The effects of arsenic on the algae varied with the oxidation state of the element, its concentration, and the degree of illumination. Arsenate affected mainly algal growth but also cell morphology, whereas arsenite caused only morphological changes. Studies on the incorporation of 74As-arsenate into cells grown in artificial sea water indicated that arsenate was incorporated and later partially released by both T. chui and H. carterae. Both arsenate influx and efflux seemed to be energy-dependent phenomena, because they varied with the degree of illumination. Differences between the rates of uptake and release of arsenic suggested that arsenate undergoes chemical changes after having been transported into the algal cells.
Thorium lends a fiery hand

John Arnold, Thomas L. Gianetti and Yannai Kashtan look back on thorium's chemistry, and look forward to harnessing its nuclear potential.
Developing a self-diagnostic system for piezoelectric sensors

Measurement techniques for developing a self-diagnostic system for piezoelectric sensors are presented. The self-diagnostic system uses two types of measurement techniques based on passive and active evaluation of the piezoelectric element. Both hard and soft failures can be detected by this system. Hard failures such as loss of sensor signal and change in sensor output resistance are determined by monitoring the sensor's output resistance, voltage or current. These are passive measurements of the sensor's output condition. Soft failures include changes in sensor calibration and mounting conditions. Soft failures are detected by measuring structural/electrical impedance of the piezoelectric sensor. Active measurement techniques are used to calculate changes in piezoelectric element properties related to soft failures. This paper describes the general operating principles of a self-diagnostic system and discusses the design of an active/passive measurement technique required for this system to function. Experimental results using two types of piezoelectric accelerometers are presented.
Does Kṛṣṇa Really Need His Own Grammar? Jīva Gosvāmin’s Answer

Everyone who has ever studied Sanskrit is struck by the remarkable grammatical self-awareness of Indian intellectual culture. Harold G. Coward and K. Kunjunni Raja discuss some eighty-five Indian grammarians in The Philosophy of the Grammarians (1990) and admit that their work is not exhaustive. Not included in their summary are the dozens of sectarian grammars, most of which appeared in the middle period of roughly the thirteenth through the seventeenth centuries. JIva Gosvamin's (1523-1608) Harindmdmrtavydkarana falls into this latter group. This lengthy work (some three thousand sutras in the Brhad recension and about onethird that in the Laghu) is intriguing in and of itself, all the more so because few scholars to date have taken the sectarian grammars seriously. These works constitute a testimony to the continuous centrality, to the present day, of Sanskrit in many religious communities in South Asia. The Indian fascination with grammar, and with language itself, as well as language choice for various purposes, made me wonder how the elite (Sanskrit) and the common (vernacular) dichotomy in South Asia functioned in the middle period. Would an examination of the similar bilingualism we find in Medieval Europe (Latin and the European vernaculars) provide any insight into the issue? The medieval period in Europe is somewhat earlier than what scholars call the "middle period" in South Asia; the latter extends nearly to the coming of European colonialism and the collapse of the Mughal empire. I want to explore the extent to which the situation in South Asia is unique and how much it parallels thinking elsewhere in the world. The early Buddhist linguistic situation, for example, while South Asian, would at first glance seem to represent the opposite of this dichotomy. It is difficult to determine with any certainty the original language of the early Buddhist canon, but the Buddha is widely reported "to have enjoined his followers to remember his doctrine in their own languages" (Warder 1991: 206). Only later, some centuries after the Buddha's death, did Buddhists begin to compose their treatises in Sanskrit, and eventually they, too, produced sectarian grammars of that language. Did the European writers ask the same sorts of questions as the Indians when
Lung vitamin E transport processes are affected by both age and environmental oxidants in mice

Despite the physiological importance of alpha-tocopherol (AT), the molecular mechanisms involved in maintaining cellular and tissue tocopherol levels remain to be fully characterized. Scavenger receptor B1 (SRB1), one of a large family of scavenger receptors, has been shown to facilitate AT transfer from HDL to peripheral tissues via apo A-1-mediated processes and to be important in the delivery of AT to the lung cells. In the present studies the effects of age and two environmental oxidants ozone (O3) (0.25 ppm 6 h/day) and cigarette smoke (CS) (60 mg/m3 6 h/day) for 4 days on selected aspects of AT transport in murine lung tissues were assessed. While AT levels were 25% higher (p<0.05) and 15% lower (p<0.05) in plasma and lung tissue, respectively, in aged versus young mice, acute environmental exposure to O3 or CS at the doses used had no effect. Gene expression levels, determined by RT-PCR of AT transport protein (ATTP), SRB1, CD36, ATP binding cassette 3 (ABCA3) and ABCA1 and protein levels, determined by Western blots for SRB1, ATTP and ABCA1 were assessed. Aged mouse lung showed a lower levels of ATTP, ABCA3 and SRB1 and a higher level CD36 and ABCA1. Acute exposure to either O3 or CS induced declines in ATTP and SRB1 in both aged and young mice lung. CD36 increased in both young and aged mice lung upon exposure to O3 and CS. These findings suggest that both age and environmental oxidant exposure affect pathways related to lung AT homeostasis and do so in a way that favors declines in lung AT. However, given the approach taken, the effects cannot be traced to changes in these pathways or AT content in any specific lung associated cell type and thus highlight the need for further follow-up studies looking at specific lung associated cell types.
Argon laser surgery of mucous membranes papillomatosis in EEC syndrome and Goltz syndrome

This article describes successful results after argon laser surgery of verrucous and papillomatous lesions on the mucous membranes of the lips in two patients; the first with the EEC syndrome and the second with the Goltz syndrome. Our report is confirmation that laser energy, because is not cumulated in tissues, may be safely used for retreatment of these recalcitrant lesions.
Quantitative polymerase chain reaction for human herpesvirus diagnosis and measurement of Epstein–Barr virus burden in posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder

Human herpesviruses can cause acute diseases such as chicken pox or mononucleosis, but also may reactivate during immunosuppression and result in severe or life-threatening illnesses such as shingles or lymphoproliferative disorders. We report the development and validation of a quantitative PCR method to measure viral burden for all eight human herpesviruses (HSV1, HSV2, VZV, EBV, CMV, HHV6, HHV7, and KSHV) in patients' samples. The method uses an internal standard that is coamplified with the viral target, allowing quantification of viral genomes in absolute terms (e.g., viral targets/mL of blood) and ruling out false-negative results. We demonstrate that transplant patients with lymphoproliferative disorder carry an EBV viral burden 3 logs higher than nontransplant patients. EBV titers in transplant patients without a lymphoproliferative disorder are between these values. This quantitative PCR method may aid in differentiating clinically significant vs latent viral burden in immunosuppressed patients.
Blood substitutes in cardiac surgery

A safe, inexpensive, noninfectious substitute for red blood cells has long been sought. Despite tremendous advances in blood banking, the logistics of collecting, transporting, and storing human red blood cells contin ues to create infection and shortage problems. The two basic types of blood substitutes currently under devel opment are hemoglobin based and fluorocarbon based. Although they each transport oxygen differently, the basic advantages and limitations are the same. Blood substitute advantages include the unique capacity for room temperature storage, noninfectivity, adequate supply, and low toxicity. Restrictions include limited dosing in the acute period, limited intravascular half-life and, for the fluorocarbons, a requirement for a high PaO2. In addition, there remain questions about the relationship of nitric oxide metabolism to hypertension in hemoglobin solutions. Early clinical and laboratory trials have shown that both types of solutions are effective oxygen-delivery agents, with acceptab...
Cohesion and Sports Teams: A Review

Cohesion has historically been considered one of the most important variables in the study of small group dynamics and has historically been one of the most frequently studied of group-level constructs. In this commentary we consider why and how group cohesion influences behavior in sports teams and why and how it operates differently in different types of teams. Specifically, we note that sports teams operate in extremely well-defined contexts, with much greater clarity in terms of goals, member roles, working procedures, available resources, and so forth, than most other types of teams. Consequently we suggest that while cohesion may be a valid construct for studying and analyzing sports teams, the relative lack of clear unambiguous context for most other types of teams reduces the explanatory power of cohesion for teams in other contexts.
Does ADMA cause endothelial dysfunction

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous and competitive inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Plasma levels of this inhibitor are elevated in patients with atherosclerosis and in those with risk factors for atherosclerosis. In these patients, plasma ADMA levels are correlated with the severity of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. By inhibiting the production of nitric oxide, ADMA may impair blood flow, accelerate atherogenesis, and interfere with angiogenesis. ADMA may be a novel risk factor for vascular disease.
Structure of the carbohydrate chains of the proline-rich glycoprotein from human parotid saliva

Abstract The carbohydrate structure of a proline-rich glycoprotein from human parotid saliva is presented. Studies were performed on tritiated glycopeptides prepared by extensive pronase digestion of galactose oxidase/sodium borotritide treated glycoprotein. Structural characterization was carried out using a combination of periodate oxidation, methylation analysis, nitrous acid deamination, and glycosidase treatment. A triantennary asparagine-linked structure was found which contained peripheral Galβ1→4 (Fucα1→3) GlcNAc sequences.
Cytochrome b5 augments the 17,20-lyase activity of human P450c17 without direct electron transfer.

In the biosynthesis of steroid hormones, P450c17 is the single enzyme that catalyzes both the 17α-hydroxylation of 21-carbon steroids and the 17,20-lyase activity that cleaves the C17-C20 bond to produce C19sex steroids. Cytochrome b 5 augments the 17,20-lyase activity of cytochrome P450c17 in vitro, but this has not been demonstrated in membranes, and the mechanism of this action is unknown. We expressed human P450c17, human P450-oxidoreductase (OR), and/or human cytochromeb 5 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and analyzed the 17α-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase activities of the resulting yeast microsomes. Yeast expressing only P450c17 have 17α-hydroxylase and trace 17,20-lyase activities toward both Δ4 and Δ5 steroids. Coexpression of human OR with P450c17 increases the V max of both the 17α-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase reactions 5-fold; coexpression of human b 5 with P450c17 also increases theV max of the 17,20-lyase reactions but not of the 17α-hydroxylase reactions. Simultaneous expression of humanb 5 with P450c17 and OR, or addition of purified human b 5 to microsomes from yeast coexpressing human P450c17 and OR, further increases theV max of the 17,20-lyase reaction without altering 17α-hydroxylase activity. Genetically engineered yeast and mixing experiments demonstrate that OR is both necessary and sufficient for microsomal 17,20-lyase activity. Addition of purified human holo-b 5, apo-b 5, or cytochrome c to microsomes containing both human P450c17 and OR demonstrate that the stimulatory action ofb 5 does not require electron transfer fromb 5 to P450c17. These data suggest that humanb 5 acts principally as an allosteric effector that interacts primarily with the P450c17·OR complex to stimulate 17,20-lyase activity.
Age Stereotypes in the Workplace: Common Stereotypes, Moderators, and Future Research Directions†

The authors identify, analyze, and summarize prior research from 117 research articles and books that deal with age stereotypes in the workplace. They discover and report the most prevalent and well-supported findings that have implications for human resource management. These findings are described in terms of prevalent age stereotypes that occur in work settings, evidence refuting age stereotypes, and moderators of age stereotypes. The authors provide recommendations for practice and future research.
Negotiating Knightly Piety: The Cult of the Warrior-Saints in the West, ca. 1070–ca. 1200

Around 1184, Alan de Lille composed a sermon addressed to Europe's knights (Ad milites) as part of a treatise on the art of preaching (Ars praedicandi). In it, Alan condemned the felonious and violent behavior of Western warriors and reproached them for their mistreatment of the poor and the Church—the very groups that knights ought to protect in an ideal Christian society. According to Alan, such actions must cease and knightly behavior must be reformed. Using scriptural precedent, he encouraged knights to consider their spiritual welfare by articulating a difference between internal and external military service. Knights, if they wish to be soldiers of God, must wield both temporal and spiritual arms: the former to protect the Church and their homelands, the latter to combat the enemies of their souls. Balance between the two was essential since external service (earthly combat) was empty and meaningless without its internal counterpart (spiritual combat). By ensuring the proper equilibrium, knights could fulfill their assigned role in the world while actively working to ensure their own salvation.
Anterior iliac crest, posterior iliac crest, and proximal tibia donor sites: a comparison of cancellous bone volumes in fresh cadavers.

Purpose The anterior iliac crest, posterior iliac crest, and proximal tibia are common cancellous donor sites used for autogenous bone grafting. Donor site selection is partly dependent on the expected volume of available bone, but reports of cancellous bone volumes at each of these sites are variable. The goal of this study was to compare the volumes of cancellous bone harvested from donor sites within the same cadaver. Materials and Methods Within each of 10 fresh frozen cadavers, cancellous bone was harvested from 3 donor sites—anterior iliac crest, posterior iliac crest, and proximal tibia—using established surgical techniques. Bone volumes were measured by fluid displacement. Mean compressed cancellous bone volumes from the 3 donor sites were compared among cadavers. Within each cadaver, the 3 donor sites were given a volume rank score from 1 (least volume) to 3 (most volume). Results Among cadavers, mean compressed cancellous bone volumes from the proximal tibia (11.3 mL) and posterior iliac crest (10.1 mL) were significantly greater than the anterior iliac crest (7.0 mL). Within cadavers, the mean volume rank score of the proximal tibia (mean rank, 2.7) was statistically greater than that for the posterior iliac crest (mean rank, 2.0), which was statistically greater than that for the anterior iliac crest (mean rank, 1.2). Strong correlations in bone volume existed between the proximal tibia and iliac crests (r = 0.67) and between the anterior iliac crest and posterior iliac crest (r = 0.93). Conclusion The proximal tibia and posterior iliac crest yielded a significantly greater mean volume of compressed cancellous bone than the anterior iliac crest. Within individual cadaver skeletons, the proximal tibia was most likely to yield the largest cancellous volume, whereas the anterior iliac crest was most likely to yield the smallest cancellous volume. Although the proximal tibia contains relatively large volumes of cancellous bone, further investigation is required to determine how much cancellous bone can safely be harvested.
Color and brightness discrimination of white LEDs

Great strides have recently been made in the development of white light emitting diodes (LEDs), although perceptible variations remain in the color and brightness of nominally identical products. The objective of this study was to examine color and brightness discriminability between different white LEDs when used as illuminants of colored and achromatic objects. A method of successive comparisons was used to assess discriminability rather than the more typical simultaneous (side-by-side) comparisons using a "same-different" response protocol. Three-dimensional "tolerance zones" were developed based upon discriminability in a chromaticity (u', v') and luminance when illuminating the colored and achromatic objects. These "tolerance zones" could be used to establish specification tolerances for different lighting applications.
Facilitating Self-Regulated Learning with Technology: Evidence for Student Motivation and Exam Improvement

The authors examined the extent to which student access to the MyGrade application in Blackboard may facilitate motivation and exam improvement via grade monitoring. In support of self-regulated learning and feedback principles, students indicated that the MyGrade application helped them better monitor their course performance and increased their motivation to study and pay attention in class. Access statistics for the MyGrade application in two undergraduate psychology courses revealed that students who viewed their grades weekly or more significantly improved their exam scores compared with those who accessed their grades less than weekly. These effects were robust when controlling for student characteristics (ability, experience, self-control) and class attendance. The authors discuss implications for the role of technology in facilitating self-regulated learning.
Human Gastric Carcinogenesis: A Multistep and Multifactorial Process—First American Cancer Society Award Lecture on Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention

Evidence from pathology and epidemiology studies has been provided for a human model of gastric carcinogenesis with the following sequential stages: chronic gastritis; atrophy; intestinal metaplasia; and dysplasia. The initial stages of gastritis and atrophy have been linked to excessive salt intake and infection with Helicobacter pylori. The intermediate stages have been associated with the ingestion of ascorbic acid and nitrate, determinants of intragastric nitrosation. The final stages have been linked with the supply of beta-carotene and with excessive salt intake. Nitrosating agents are candidate carcinogens and could originate in the gastric cavity or in the inflammatory infiltrate.
Creating a culture of technical caution: addressing the issues of security, privacy protection and the ethical use of technology

This paper focuses upon the infusion of basic security and cyberethics principles within the curriculum of a required technology integration course for pre-service teachers. By using a prescribed list of content and the relevant curricular modules, the students are exposed to these principles within a similar context they will encounter as a K-12 educator.
Mitochondria control ampa/kainate receptor-induced cytoplasmic calcium deregulation in rat cerebellar granule cells.

Although mitochondria mediate the delayed failure of cytoplasmic Ca2+ homeostasis [delayed Ca2+deregulation (DCD)] in rat cerebellar granule cells resulting from chronic activation of NMDA receptors, their role in AMPA/KA-induced DCD remains to be established. The mitochondrial ATP synthase inhibitor oligomycin protected cells against KA- but not NMDA-evoked DCD. In contrast to NMDA-evoked DCD, no additional protection was afforded by the further addition of rotenone. The effects of KA on cytoplasmic Ca2+ homeostasis, including the protection afforded by oligomycin, could be reproduced by veratridine. KA exposure induced a partial mitochondrial depolarization that was enhanced by oligomycin, indicating ATP synthase reversal. The nonglycolytic substrates pyruvate and lactate were unable to maintain Ca2+ homeostasis in the presence of KA. In contrast to NMDA, KA exposure did not cause mitochondrial Ca2+ loading. The data indicate that Na+ entry via noninactivating AMPA/KA receptors or voltage-activated Na+ channels compromises mitochondrial function sufficiently to cause ATP synthase reversal. Oligomycin may protect by preventing the consequent mitochondrial drain of cytoplasmic ATP.
Trophic dynamics of shrinking Subarctic lakes: naturally eutrophic waters impart resilience to rising nutrient and major ion concentrations

Shrinking lakes were recently observed for several Arctic and Subarctic regions due to increased evaporation and permafrost degradation. Along with lake drawdown, these processes often boost aquatic chemical concentrations, potentially impacting trophic dynamics. In particular, elevated chemical levels may impact primary productivity, which may in turn influence populations of primary and secondary consumers. We examined trophic dynamics of 18 shrinking lakes of the Yukon Flats, Alaska, that had experienced pronounced increases in nutrient (>200 % total nitrogen, >100 % total phosphorus) and ion concentrations (>100 % for four major ions combined) from 1985–1989 to 2010–2012, versus 37 stable lakes with relatively little chemical change over the same period. We found that phytoplankton stocks, as indexed by chlorophyll concentrations, remained unchanged in both shrinking and stable lakes from the 1980s to 2010s. Moving up the trophic ladder, we found significant changes in invertebrate abundance across decades, including decreased abundance of five of six groups examined. However, these decadal losses in invertebrate abundance were not limited to shrinking lakes, occurring in lakes with stable surface areas as well. At the top of the food web, we observed that probabilities of lake occupancy for ten waterbird species, including adults and chicks, remained unchanged from the period 1985–1989 to 2010–2012. Overall, our study lakes displayed a high degree of resilience to multi-trophic cascades caused by rising chemical concentrations. This resilience was likely due to their naturally high fertility, such that further nutrient inputs had little impact on waters already near peak production.
‘It’s all foreign to me’: how to decipher gastrointestinal intraluminal foreign bodies

In evaluating the gastrointestinal tract, whether in the emergency room setting, the inpatient setting or the outpatient setting, the radiologist may encounter a myriad of intraluminal radio-opaque, non-anatomic entities. It is the radiologist’s role to distinguish between true foreign bodies and medical paraphernalia. Further, the later must be evaluated for proper positioning vs. improper, potentially detrimental positioning. While many foreign bodies from the community may be distinctly familiar to the radiologist, the large variety of medical tools in existence may not be. Furthermore, many medical devices are designed to transiently traverse, or interact with the gastrointestinal tract, requiring the radiologist to become familiar with their natural history. We explore a select group of common and uncommon intraluminal foreign bodies and will divide them into medical paraphernalia that are properly positioned; medical paraphernalia that are in abnormal locations and miscellaneous foreign bodies from the community. For each medical tool, we will discuss its development and medical utility, natural history as it relates to the gastrointestinal tract, optimal positioning as assessed radiologically, malpositioning, and subsequent complications. A small selection of unusual foreign bodies from the community will be presented. Finally, a selection of medical conditions which produce symptoms due to acquired intraluminal objects will be reviewed.
The treatment of benign pigmented lesions and tattoos with the Q-switched ruby laser. A comparative study using the 5.0- and 6.5-mm spot size.

background The Q-switched ruby laser (QSRL) is useful in the treatment of benign pigmented lesions and tattoos. Two spot sizes are available in the QSRL (5 and 6.5 mm). It has not been shown if one spot size is more efficacious in the treatment of benign pigmented lesions and tattoos. objective The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical lightening and side effects observed with the 5.0- and 6.5-mm spot sizes of the QSRL in the treatment of benign pigmented lesions and tattoos. methods Eleven patients with 12 benign pigmented lesions or tattoos were prospectively studied with the QSRL. Half of the lesion was treated with the 5.0-mm spot size while the other half was treated with the 6.5-mm spot size. Clinical lightening of the lesion was assessed using presentment and posttreatment photographs. results No significant clinical difference in the lightening of lesions or in the side effect profile was observed with either spot size. conclusions The 5.0- and 6.5-mm spot sizes of the QSRL are equally efficacious in the removal of benign pigmented lesions and tattoos. If seems prudent to use the 6.5-mm spot size when treating large lesions to reduce treatment time, patient discomfort, and treatment cost.
Reactivation of Herpes Simplex Virus after Decompression of the Trigeminal Nerve Root

Reactivation of herpes simplex virus was prospectively studied in patients after microneurosurgical decompression of the trigeminal sensory root, a new operation for trigeminal neuralgia in which the nerve is not sectioned. Reactivation was detected in 28 (50%) of 56 patients. Virus was cultured from oropharyngeal secretions in 25 patients, and 21 patients developed cutaneous herpetic lesions. Seven patients had positive throat-wash (TW) cultures but did not develop lesions, and the converse occurred in three patients. Eighteen patients had both positive TW cultures and herpetic lesions. In eight of nine instances in which a sequence was determinable, TW cultures were positive before lesions developed. A history of recurrent herpes labialis was associated with a higher risk of developing reactivation postoperatively (59.4% vs. 31.6%, P less than 0.05). These observations suggest that minimal stimulation or inapparent trauma to the trigeminal sensory root is sufficient to activate latent herpes simplex virus in humans. These patients provide unique opportunities to study immunologic responses and therapeutic measures.
Computing Deep Perft and Divide Numbers for Checkers

The perft method, originating from the chess programming community, has become a widespread way to test the correctness and performance of move generators. Although its usefulness diminishes with depth, computing deep perft numbers poses an interesting computational challenge by itself. This paper presents perft and corresponding divide numbers for American checkers up to depth 28 together with background on the distributed implementation used to compute deep numbers.
Effects of HIE/HIT Implementation and Coordination of Care on Health Outcomes and Quality.

The US healthcare system is highly fragmented and fraught with attendant inefficiencies in delivery. Lack of interoperability and care coordination have resulted in duplication of care, increased error rates, adverse drug-drug interactions, reduced safety, and increased costs. It has been argued that investments in health information technologies will radically transform the healthcare sector by increasing efficiencies, decreasing expenditures and increasing quality. Prevalence of chronic diseases, and the need for improved quality of care and patient outcomes necessitates the application of Health Information Technology (HIT) and Health Information Exchange (HIE) to streamline patient care, eliminate waste, and improve care coordination, with the goal of ultimately improving patient health outcomes. This study aims at exploring the effects of HIT/HIE on the outcomes and quality of care for diabetes, asthma, acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and hip and knee fracture. We look at average length of stay, adverse drug events and 30 day readmissions as measures of quality of care. This study addresses the policy implications and areas for further research to increase the success of HIT implementation, success of HIEs and ultimately improve health care outcomes and reduce health care expenditures through improved care coordination across disparate provider entities, and readily accessible patient data across fragmented networks.