cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differentiation between metabolic incorporation and covalent binding in the labeling of macromolecules in the rat nasal mucosa and bone marrow by inhaled [14C]- and [3H]formaldehyde.

Abstract The mechanisms of labeling of macromolecules (DNA, RNA, and protein) in the respiratory and olfactory mucosa, and in the bone marrow (femur) of male Fischer-344 rats exposed to [ 14 C]- and [ 3 H]formaldehyde ([ 14 C]- and [ 3 H]CH 2 O) were investigated. Animals were exposed for 6 hr to atmospheres containing [ 14 C]- and [ 3 H]CH 2 O at concentrations of 0.3, 2, 6, 10, or 15 ppm, 1 day following a single pre-exposure to the same concentration of unlabeled CH 2 O. The major route of nucleic acid labeling at all concentrations and in all tissues was metabolic incorporation; protein labeling in the respiratory mucosa was mainly due to covalent binding at the higher CH 2 O concentrations. Incorporation of [ 14 C]CH 2 O into DNA in the respiratory mucosa was maximal at 6 ppm but decreased at higher concentrations, whereas labeling of DNA in the olfactory mucosa and bone marrow increased monotonically with concentration. Evidence for covalent binding of CH 2 O to respiratory mucosal DNA was obtained at CH 2 O concentrations equal to or greater than 2 ppm. The concentration of CH 2 O covalently bound to DNA at 6 ppm was 10.5-fold higher than at 2 ppm, indicating significant nonlinearity of DNA binding with respect to the inhaled formaldehyde concentration under these conditions. Covalent binding to proteins increased in an essentially linear manner with increases in the airborne concentration. No evidence was obtained for the formation of covalent adducts with macromolecules in the olfactory mucosa or bone marrow. The nonlinear increase in covalent binding to respiratory mucosal DNA with increasing CH 2 O concentrations may be explained either by a decrease in the efficiency of defense mechanisms or by an increase in the availability of reaction sites on the DNA resulting from increased cell turnover.
On an interacting particle system modeling an epidemic.

We consider an interacting particle system onZdto model an epidemic. Each site ofZdcan be in either one of three states: empty, healthy or infected. Healthy and infected individuals give birth at different rates to healthy individuals on empty sites. Healthy individuals get infected by infected individuals. Infected and healthy individuals die at different rates. We prove that in dimension 1 and with nearest-neighbor interactions the epidemic may persist forever if and only if the rate at which infected individuals give birth to healthy individuals is high enough. This is in sharp contrast with models analysed by Andjel and Schinazi (1994) and Sato et al. (1994) where infected individuals do not give birth. We also show that some results in the latter reference can be obtained easily and rigorously using probabilistic coupling to the contact process.
The Effects of the Service Environment on Affect and Consumer Perception of Waiting Time: An Integrative Review and Research Propositions:

The management of buyers’ perceptions of waiting time by service businesses may be critical to customer satisfaction. Although reducing actual waiting time is important, what managers view as a short time to wait may feel too long to customers. Relevant literature from architecture, environmental psychology, psychology, physiology, operations management, sociology, and marketing is integrated to build a conceptual model of how the service environment may influence affect and, in turn, waiting time perception. Based on this model, propositions about how specific service environment elements (e.g., lighting, color, temperature) may influence affect and time perception are presented. Finally, a research agenda and implications for service facility design are proposed.
Development and Prospective Validation of a Pediatric Heart Failure Risk-Prediction Model for 30-Day Mortality in US Children Listed for Heart Transplantation

Introduction: Hyponatremia (HN) is linked to increased heart failure (HF) severity. The frequency of HN in HF is 25-30%. While clinical markers in HF are linked to HN, little data is available describing the impact of HN on total and intensive care unit (ICU) utilization metrics. This study assessed the effect of HN on total and ICU cost ($), total and ICU length of stay (LOS), and ICU admission in hospitalized HF patients (pts). Methods: The Premier hospital database was used to construct a matched sample of inpatients discharged between January 1, 2007 and June 30, 2009. HN pts (n5558,818) were identified using primary or secondary diagnosis of HN (ICD-9-CM 276.1) and were matched to a non-HN control group (n5558,815) using propensity score matching. Matching was based on patient age, gender, race, 3M APR -DRG assignment, comorbidities, hospital size and geographic region. The HF sub-sample (HN5199,803; non-HN5213,562) had a primary diagnosis of HF (ICD-9-CM 428.23, 428.33, 428.43). Bivariate analysis utilized chisquare tests. Cost was analyzed using a multivariate general linear regression (GLM) model with gamma distribution and log-link, LOS was analyzed with GLM with negative binomial distribution and log-link. ICU admission and hospital readmission were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Bivariate analysis (see table) showed that HN pts had significantly higher total and ICU $, total and ICU LOS, and percentage of ICU admissions compared to non-HN pts. Multivariate analysis showed that HF pts with HN had significantly higher total $ (19% higher; CI5.15-.24; p!.0001), ICU $ (23% higher; CI5.14-.34; p!.0001), total LOS (22% higher; CI5.19-.25; p!.0001), and ICU LOS (21% higher; CI5.13-.30; p!.0001) than non-HN pts with HF. HN pts with HF were significantly more likely to be admitted to the ICU (OR51.23; CI51.15-1.30; p!.0001).
Determination of cloud ice water content and geometrical thickness using microwave and infrared radiometric measurements

Cloud ice water content and cloud geometrical thickness have been determined using a combination of near-infrared, thermal infrared and thermal microwave radiometric measurements. The radiometric measurements are from a Multispectral Cloud Radiometer, which has seven channels ranging from visible to thermal infrared, and an Advanced Microwave Moisture Sounder, which has four channels ranging from 90 to 183 GHz. Studies indicate that the microwave brightness temperatures depend not only on the amount of ice water content but also on the vertical distribution of ice water content. Studies also show that the low brightness temperature at 92 GHz for large ice water content is due to cloud reflection which reflects most of the irradiance incident at the cloud base downward. Therefore the 92 GHz channel detects a low brightness temperature at the cloud top.
The wrist joint of two-toed sloths and its relevance to brachiating adaptations in the hominoidea.

Two-toed sloths have evolved a wrist complex that includes the following traits: (1) diminution and distal migration of the pisiform, with a loss of contact with the ulna; (2) reduction of the distal end of the ulna to a styloid process; and (3) extremely reduced contact between the ulna and triquetrum. These traits were proposed by Lewis ('65, '74) to be indicative of brachiating habits and to be a unique adaptation of the Hominoidea. Cartmill and Milton ('77) recently found a similar complex in the wrists of the lorisines. Very similar adaptations of the wrist among the Hominoidea, lorisines, and two-toed sloths clearly refute contentions of Lewis and strengthen the hypothesis of Cartmill and Milton that the traits common to those animals are due to similar slow, cautious, but acrobatic locomotion.
Some Practical Aspects of the Verification and Validation of Simulation Models

This paper reviews the philosophical questions of model validity and describes the need for practical tests of the adequacy and representativeness of computerized simulation models. The distinction between the concepts of the verification and the validation of such general models is made by means of a delineation of test procedures, primarily those of a statistical nature, which are applicable to the determination of a simulation model's adequacy.
Cycle efficient bit rate matching for LTE-a with insructions support

Efficient software implementation of Long Term Evolution Advanced (LTE-A) wireless standard over word-based micro-processor architecture is investigated. The very high data rate of LTE-A requires more sophisticated and high throughput bit level algorithms. Due to data format mismatch, traditional word-based microprocessors face great challenge implementing these complex bit-manipulations. In this work, the implementation of bit-level interleaving operation using perfect shuffling word-level instruction is studied. In particular, an efficient implementation of bit-rate matching algorithm is demonstrated on the Texas Instruments c6416 CCS cycle accurate simulator with order of magnitude performance enhancement.
Strategies for Studying the Regulation of B Lymphocytes by Prostaglandin E2

Abstract The widely held view that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) only down-regulates immune function has been challenged by recent data from this and other laboratories. In the case of B lymphocytes, PGE2 has potent regulatory effects on activation and immunoglobulin class switching. Furthermore, the maturation stage at which a B cell encounters PGE2 can determine whether the lymphocyte continues along its differentiative path or is terminated by apoptosis. Our studies have combined the use of murine B lymphomas and normal B lymphocytes to unravel the mechanisms by which PGE2 affects B cells. Here we describe the strategies and approaches that have led to a new understanding of PGE2 regulation of immunity. These models may be extended to the study of other prostanoids and to human B lymphocytes.
Evaluating Moisture Susceptibility of Cold-Mix Asphalt:

Moisture damage-related distress is a primary concern limiting the application of cold-mix asphalt (CMA) as an alternative to hot-mix asphalt in the field. Thus, a simple and effective method is needed in the materials selection process to identify moisture susceptible materials. This study presents a modification to the boiling test procedure specified in ASTM D3625 based on the concept that a mix designer can limit moisture damage by controlling coating quality. The test was modified to present CMA-specific sample preparation guidelines and to remove subjectivity from the test by quantifying coating according to image analysis. Coating quality was evaluated with the coating loss ratio, defined as an index to compare coating before and after the boiling of cured loose mixtures. The relationship between coating quality and moisture resistance was verified with two separate tests: the AASHTO TP-91 binder bond strength test and the AASHTO T-283 tensile strength ratio test. The binder bond strength test prov...
Hedgehog signaling plays a conserved role in inhibiting fat formation

Hedgehog (Hh) signals regulate invertebrate and vertebrate development, yet the role of the cascade in adipose development was undefined. To analyze a potential function, we turned to Drosophila and mammalian models. Fat-body-specific transgenic activation of Hh signaling inhibits fly fat formation. Conversely, fat-body-specific Hh blockade stimulated fly fat formation. In mammalian models, sufficiency and necessity tests showed that Hh signaling also inhibits mammalian adipogenesis. Hh signals elicit this function early in adipogenesis, upstream of PPARgamma, potentially diverting preadipocytes as well as multipotent mesenchymal prescursors away from adipogenesis and toward osteogenesis. Hh may elicit these effects by inducing the expression of antiadipogenic transcription factors such as Gata2. These data support the notion that Hh signaling plays a conserved role, from invertebrates to vertebrates, in inhibiting fat formation and highlighting the potential of the Hh pathway as a therapeutic target for osteoporosis, lipodystrophy, diabetes, and obesity.
Transcervical migration of a broken dental needle: a case report and literature review

Although needle breakage is a rare event in dentistry, the occurrence can cause significant distress to the patient and the clinician. Taking appropriate measures to prevent this mishap is best. However, when this event occurs, appropriate planning and retrieval of the needle can lessen the detrimental effects. In this report, we document the migration and retrieval of a broken dental needle that traveled from the medial ramus of the mandible to the posterior cervical space. This report emphasizes the importance of proper local anesthesia techniques, as well as preventive measures, localization methods, and the principles of surgical approaches for the removal of broken needles.
Primary Angiitis of the Central Nervous System in Adults and Children

Primary angiitis of the central nervous system (PACNS) is a rare disease, although it is increasingly recognized both in adults and children. Little is known about pathogenesis, but efforts at classification into subtypes are being made, and the distinction of PACNS from reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome has been a major advance. The prognosis for improvement, or at least stabilization, of neurologic function is good with prompt and aggressive treatment, but the diagnosis continues to be challenging. Refinement of treatment strategies is needed. Multicenter collaboration may be crucial to make additional progress via randomized trials.
The cytoplasmic face of cell contact sites

The cytoplasmic face of cell contact sites comprises large macromolecular assemblies that link transmembrane cell adhesion molecules to the cytoskeleton. These assemblies are dynamic structures that are the targets of regulatory signals that control cell adhesiveness. Recent studies of the biochemistry and structure of the cadherin-catenin complex, vinculin and proteins of the ezrin/radixin/moesin family have begun to reveal the architecture of these assemblies and the mechanisms that are involved in their regulation.
β-Arrestins modulate Adenovirus vector induced innate immune responses: differential regulation by β-arrestin-1 and β-arrestin-2

Adenovirus (Ad)-based vectors have been utilized in human gene transfer clinical trials since 1993. Unfortunately, innate immune responses directed against the Ad capsid and/or its genetic cargo can significantly limit the usage of Ad vectors. Previous studies have demonstrated that several signaling pathways are triggered by Ads, inclusive of TLR-dependent pathways. The G-protein-coupled receptor adaptors beta-arrestin-1 (beta-Arr1) and beta-arrestin-2 (beta-Arr2) are known to have pivotal roles in regulating TLR4 triggered signaling and inflammatory responses. In this study, we examined the role of beta-arrestins in Ad5-vector-induced inflammatory responses. Our studies reveal that both beta-arrestins are capable of modulating Ad5-vector-induced inflammatory responses in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, our studies divulge another level of complexity to these responses, as our results demonstrate beta-Arr1 to be a positive regulator, and beta-Arr2 a negative regulator of Ad5 induced innate immune responses. These data may allow gene therapy biologists to more accurately study the mechanisms underlying Ad5-vector-induced immune responses, and may also direct future efforts to modulate these mechanisms to improve the safety and/or efficacy of this important gene transfer vector.
Sodium and Water Excretion in Heart Failure: Efficacy of Treatment Has Surpassed Knowledge of Pathophysiology

Excerpt Fortunately for the patient with congestive heart failure, the effectiveness of treatment has surpassed our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. It is possible that the peri...
Enyne [4 + 4] photocycloaddition with polycyclic aromatics

Polycyclic aromatics undergo [4 + 4] photocycloaddition to give substituted cyclooctadiene products. We have examined the [4 + 4] photoreactivity of these aromatics with enynes using a recently developed substitution pattern that undergoes a 1,3-hydrogen migration, forming a single cycloadduct. Several substrates yield stable, isomerized [4 + 4] adducts.
Species-Specific Chitin-Binding Module 18 Expansion in the Amphibian Pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis

ABSTRACT Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is the causative agent of chytridiomycosis, which is considered one of the driving forces behind the worldwide decline in populations of amphibians. As a member of the phylum Chytridiomycota , B. dendrobatidis has diverged significantly to emerge as the only pathogen of adult vertebrates. Such shifts in lifestyle are generally accompanied by various degrees of genomic modifications, yet neither its mode of pathogenicity nor any factors associated with it have ever been identified. Presented here is the identification and characterization of a unique expansion of the carbohydrate-binding module family 18 (CBM18), specific to B. dendrobatidis . CBM (chitin-binding module) expansions have been likened to the evolution of pathogenicity in a variety of fungus species, making this expanded group a prime candidate for the identification of potential pathogenicity factors. Furthermore, the CBM18 expansions are confined to three categories of genes, each having been previously implicated in host-pathogen interactions. These correlations highlight this specific domain expansion as a potential key player in the mode of pathogenicity in this unique fungus. The expansion of CBM18 in B. dendrobatidis is exceptional in its size and diversity compared to other pathogenic species of fungi, making this genomic feature unique in an evolutionary context as well as in pathogenicity. IMPORTANCE Amphibian populations are declining worldwide at an unprecedented rate. Although various factors are thought to contribute to this phenomenon, chytridiomycosis has been identified as one of the leading causes. This deadly fungal disease is cause by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis , a chytrid fungus species unique in its pathogenicity and, furthermore, its specificity to amphibians. Despite more than two decades of research, the biology of this fungus species and its deadly interaction with amphibians had been notoriously difficult to unravel. Due to the alarming rate of worldwide spread and associated decline in amphibian populations, it is imperative to incorporate novel genomic and genetic techniques into the study of this species. In this study, we present the first reported potential pathogenicity factors in B. dendrobatidis . In silico studies such as this allow us to identify putative targets for more specific molecular analyses, furthering our hope for the control of this pathogen.
The Framing of Drivers' Route Choices when Travel Time Information Is Provided under Varying Degrees of Cognitive Load:

In two experiments, participants chose between staying on a main route with a certain travel time and diverting to an alternative route that could take a range of travel times. In the first experiment, travel time information was displayed on a sheet of paper to participants seated at a desk. In the second experiment, the same information was displayed in a virtual environment through which participants drove. Overall, participants were risk-averse when the average travel time along the alternative route was shorter than the certain travel time of the main route but risk-seeking when the average travel time of the alternative route was longer than the certain travel time along the main route. In the second experiment, in which cognitive load was higher, participants simplified their decision-making strategies. A simple probabilistic model describes the risk-taking behavior and the load effects. Actual or potential applications of this research include the development of efficient travel time information systems for drivers.
INFECTED CALICEAL DIVERTICULUM IN A HORSESHOE KIDNEY

Horseshoe kidney is the most common renal fusion anomaly.1 Although many cases of horseshoe kidney remain asymptomatic, renal calculi, infections and ureteropelvic junction obstruction are known complications.' Infundibulopelvic dysgenesis is a congenital obstructive process of the pyelocaliceal system, which can be focal or diffuse.2 Caliceal diverticulum, or cystic dilatation adjacent to a minor calk, is a focal form of this disease spectrum. It is considered to be a defect of embryogenesis, although the mechanism is unclear.2 Persistence of later generations of the dividing ureteral bud that fail to degenerate and persist with subsequent enlargement secondary to backilow of urine has been proposed. The majority of caliceal diverticula remain entirely asymptomatic but they may be associated with stone formation or infection.
Capillary force-driven fluid flow of a wetting liquid in open grooves with different sizes

Penetration of a wetting liquid into open metallic grooves is investigated in this work. Three grooves with different depths but the same width were tested; for each groove, a gently deposited liquid droplet serves as the reservoir for liquid penetration. High-speed imaging revealed that, after the initial stage, the penetration in the grooves is in direct proportion to the square root of time and the penetration is faster in deeper grooves. The maximum penetration speed, corresponding to the moment that a droplet touches a groove, is measured to be in the neighborhood of 250-400 mm/s; the penetration speed then exponentially decreases with time. It was found that the penetration front profile remains nearly unchanged as the liquid penetrates downstream and appears to form a nearly 45° angle with respect to the groove bottom for all the three grooves tested. It is hypothesized that the capillary flow in any non-circular capillaries can be described by the Washburn's equation with the tube diameter replaced by the equivalent diameter, which is defined as the contact line length at the liquid penetration front divided by π. For the grooves tested in this work, the calculations based on the equivalent diameter match well the measurements.
AVP-induced VIT32 gene expression in collecting duct cells occurs via trans-activation of a CRE in the 5'-flanking region of the VIT32 gene

VIT32, a vasopressin-induced transcript, inhibits Na+ transport when coexpressed with the epithelial sodium channel in Xenopus laevis oocytes (EMBO J 21: 5109–5117, 2002). To understand the mechani...
Optimizing Join Queries in Distributed Database

A reduced cover set of the set of full reducer semijoin programs for an acyclic query graph for a distributed database system is given. An algorithm based on this reduced cover set is then presented which determines the minimum cost full reducer program. We show that the computational complexity of finding the optimal full reducer for a single relation is of the same order as that of finding the optimal full reducer for all the relations. The optimization algorithm is able to handle query graphs where more than one attribute is common between the relations. We also present a method for determining the optimum profitable semijoin program. The computational complexities of finding the optimum cost semijoin program is high. We present a low cost algorithm which determines a near optimal profitable semijoin program. We do this by converting a semijoin program into a partial order graph. This graph also allows us to maximize the concurrent processing of the semijoins. It is shown that the minimum response time is given by the largest cost path of the partial order graph. We can use this reducibility as a post optimizer for the SDD-1 query optimization algorithm. Finally, it is shown that the least upper bound on the length of any profitable semijoin program is N*(N−1) for a query graph of N nodes.
Serious fun: Minority cultural dynamics and national integration in Thailand

In this article, I explore local social and cultural dynamics in the context of the national integration of ethnic minorities. My case concerns a Mien population in Thailand and describes various engagements of local and national spaces that center on issues of fun. Sports competitions and culture shows resonate with other projects that reinforce the centrality of villages in contemporary social life. For the Mien, these dynamics index a shift from the household to the village as the subject of action. Fun and games are not digressions from politics but are central to the serious play of everyday life, [national integration, ethnic minorities, fun, ethnography, village, Mien (Yao), Thailand]
Social applications: exploring a more secure framework

Online social network sites, such as MySpace, Facebook and others have grown rapidly, with hundreds of millions of active users. A new feature on many sites is social applications -- applications and services written by third party developers that provide additional functionality linked to a user's profile. However, current application platforms put users at risk by permitting the disclosure of large amounts of personal information to these applications and their developers. This paper formally abstracts and defines the current access control model applied to these applications, and builds on it to create a more secure framework. We do so in the interest of preserving as much of the current architecture as possible, while seeking to provide a practical balance between security and privacy needs of the users, and the needs of the applications to access users' information. We present a user study of our interface design for setting a user-to-application policy. Our results indicate that the model and interface work for users who are more concerned with their privacy, but we still need to explore alternate means of creating policies for those who are less concerned.
Scattering Effects from Residual Optical Fabrication Errors

Scattering effects from residual optical fabrication errors limit the optical performance of many imaging systems. Residual surface roughness over a broad range of relevant spatial frequencies must be specified and controlled for many applications of interest. Wide-angle scatter from surface microroughness severely reduces contrast in extended images. However, small-angle scatter from `mid' spatial frequency surface irregularities that span the gap between the `figure' and `finish' errors will degrade the achievable resolution. Specifying the traditional surface `figure' and `finish' is thus inadequate for high resolution imaging systems or for optical elements fabricated by new automated optical manufacturing processes. A linear systems treatment of surface scatter theory will be presented and its implementation in a computer code for modeling the image degradation effects of residual surface irregularities over the entire range of relevant spatial frequencies will be demonstrated. Parametric performance predictions can then be used to determine realistic optical fabrication tolerances for a variety of applications.
Effect of Moisture on Modulus Values of Base and Subgrade Materials

Moisture in the base and subgrade layers of pavement can significantly decrease the modulus values of these layers. Recently, a study was performed on several Florida state roads for the purpose of evaluating the decrease in moduli of bases and subgrades due to the proximity of the water table. Dynaflect and falling weight deflectometer (FWD) tests were performed on pavement test sections throughout Florida for the purpose of backcalculation of the modulus values of the different layers. Testing was performed at different times of the year, and the water table fluctuations were recorded throughout the study. The Dynaflect and FWD deflections, water contents, depths to water table, layer thicknesses, pavement temperatures, and air temperatures were recorded on all test sections over a 5-year period. EVERCALC was used for backcalculation of modulus values on the basis of FWD tests. The Dynaflect data were also used for calculation of layer properties on the basis of a procedure developed by the Florida Department of Transportation. Both Dynaflect and FWD showed that the water table had a significant negative impact on the modulus values of the base and subgrade materials. Such results are extremely beneficial aids for establishing acceptable embankment depths so that the effects of moisture on the modulus values of pavements may be reduced.
Effect of the No-Flow Interval and Hypothermia on Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism During Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Dogs

Background and Purpose —We sought (1) to determine the effect of brief periods of no flow on the subsequent forebrain blood flow during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and (2) to test the hypothesis that hypothermia prevents the impact of the no-flow duration on cerebral blood flow (CBF) during CPR. Methods —No-flow intervals of 1.5, 3, and 6 minutes before CPR at brain temperatures of 28°C and 38°C were compared in 6 groups of anesthetized dogs. Microsphere-determined CBF and metabolism were measured before and during vest CPR adjusted to maintain cerebral perfusion pressure at 25 mm Hg. Results —Increasing the no-flow interval from 1.5 to 6 minutes at 38°C decreased the CBF (18.6±3.6 to 6.1±1.7 mL/100 g per minute) and the cerebral metabolic rate (2.1±0.3 to 0.7±0.2 mL/100 g per minute) during CPR. Cooling to 28°C before and during the arrest eliminated the detrimental effects of increasing the no-flow interval on CBF (16.8±1.0 to 14.8±1.9 mL/100 g per minute) and cerebral metabolic rate (1.1±0.1 to 1.3±0.1 mL/100 g per minute). Unlike the forebrain, 6 minutes of preceding cardiac arrest did not affect brain stem blood flow during CPR. Conclusions —Increasing the no-flow interval to 6 minutes in normothermic animals decreases the supratentorial blood flow and cerebral metabolic rate during CPR at a cerebral perfusion pressure of 25 mm Hg. Cooling to 28°C eliminates the detrimental impact of the 6-minute no-flow interval on the reflow produced during CPR. The brain-protective effects of hypothermia include improving reflow during CPR after cardiac arrest. The effect of hypothermia and the impact of short durations of no flow on reperfusion indicate that increasing viscosity and reflex vasoconstriction are unlikely causes of the “no-reflow” phenomenon.
Effectiveness of home versus hospital care in the routine treatment of cystic fibrosis

Many cystic fibrosis patients with Pseudomonas lung infections receive intravenous (IV) antibiotics and chest physiotherapy (CPT) at home. Previous studies have suggested that home care, in the setting of a clinical study, is as efficacious as hospital care. This report compares the outcomes of home care with minimal supervision to outcomes of hospital care. We compared two groups of similar age and severity of lung impairment. Patients met strict definitions for home or hospital treatment (27 home care courses/33 hospital care courses). Five patients completed six courses of both home care and hospital treatment. Treatment in both groups included intravenous antibiotics and CPT. Primary outcome measures included changes in pulmonary function between the start of treatment and after 2 weeks of therapy, duration of treatment, and intervals between antibiotic courses. In hospitalized patients, forced vital capacity (FVC) increased by 17.4 +/- 3.1% (mean +/- SEM), and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) increased by 23.3 +/- 4.1%, both significant at P < 0.001. The FVC and FEV1 of patients treated at home increased by 10.2 +/- 2.0% and 13.7 +/- 2.6% respectively, neither of which was a significant improvement. Similar results were found in the five patients completing both home and hospital courses. The average duration of treatment was twice as long and time between IV antibiotic courses only two-thirds as long for those treated at home compared with the hospitalized patients. Previous reports have claimed that home care in the setting of a prospective study is as efficacious as hospital care. Our experience indicates that routine home care with minimal supervision of patients is less effective than hospital care. Furthermore, home care as delivered to patients in this report increased the overall cost of care by as much as 30% because of longer and more frequent courses of antibiotic therapy.
Does Entertainment-Education Work With Latinos in the United States? Identification and the Effects of a Telenovela Breast Cancer Storyline

This article examines the proposition that a popular form of entertainment, the telenovela, can educate Spanish-speaking viewers in the United States if accurate health information is presented in a dramatic, narrative format. Health professionals consulted on a breast cancer storyline in a Spanish-language telenovela, Ladron de Corazones, and the impact on viewers' knowledge and behavioral intentions were assessed using three methods. First, an analysis of call attempts to 1-800-4-CANCER demonstrated a significant increase in calls when a PSA featuring the number aired during the program. Second, a nationwide telephone survey indicated that viewers, especially those who identify with Spanish-language television characters, gained specific knowledge from viewing the story and that male viewers were significantly more likely to recommend that women have a mammogram. Third, these trends were confirmed and further explored using focus groups of Ladron viewers. Implications for educating viewers using dramatic serials in the United States are discussed.
BIRD ASSEMBLAGES IN SECOND-GROWTH AND OLD-GROWTH FORESTS, COSTA RICA: PERSPECTIVES FROM MIST NETS AND POINT COUNTS

Abstract Second growth has replaced lowland forest in many parts of the Neotropics, providing valuable habitat for many resident and migrant bird species. Given the prevalence of such habitats and the potential benefit for conservation of biodiversity, it is important to understand patterns of diversity in second growth and old growth. Descriptions of species-distribution patterns may depend, however, on method(s) used to sample birds. We used data from mist nets and point counts to (1) describe species diversity and community composition in second-growth (young and old) and old-growth forests at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica; and (2) to evaluate perspectives on community composition provided by the two methods. We recorded 249 species from 39 families, including 196 species captured in mist nets (10,019 captures) and 215 recorded during point counts (15,577 observations), which represents ∼78% of the terrestrial avifauna known from La Selva (excluding accidentals and birds characteristic of aqu...
Monitoring Dense-Time, Continuous-Semantics, Metric Temporal Logic

The continuous semantics and dense time model most closely model the intuitive meaning of properties specified in metric temporal logic (mtl). To date, monitoring algorithms for mtl with dense time and continuous semantics lacked the simplicity the standard algorithms for discrete time and pointwise semantics. In this paper, we present a novel, transition-based, representation of dense-time boolean signals that lends itself to the construction of efficient monitors for safety properties defined in metric temporal logic with continuous semantics. Using this representation, we present a simple lookup-table-based algorithm for monitoring formulas consisting of arbitrarily nested mtl operators. We examine computational and space complexity of this monitoring algorithm for the past-only, restricted-future, and unrestricted-future temporal operators.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Coach Contact During a Brief Online Intervention for Distressed Couples

The negative impacts of relationship distress on the couple, the family, and the individual are well-known. However, couples are often unable to access effective treatments to combat these effects-including many couples who might be at highest risk for relationship distress. Online self-help interventions decrease the barriers to treatment and provide couples with high quality, research-based programs they can do on their own. Using a combined multiple baseline and randomized design, the present study investigated the effectiveness of the Brief OurRelationship.com (Brief-OR) program with and without staff support in improving relationship distress and individual functioning. Results indicated the program produced significant gains in several areas of relationship functioning; however, these gains were smaller in magnitude than those observed in Full-OR. Furthermore, effects of Brief-OR were not sustained over follow-up. Comparisons between couples randomized to Brief-OR with and without contact with a staff coach indicated that coach contact significantly reduced program noncompletion and improved program effects. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Mode and polarization division multiplexed signal detection with single coherent receiver using mode-selective coherent detection technique

We experimentally demonstrate that a single coherent receiver can successfully receive mode and polarization division multiplexed signal using MDM-to-FDM signal conversion scheme based on our proposed mode-selective coherent detection technique to develop low-complexity MDM systems.
Further Study on the Determination of Membership Function

The determination of membershp function should not only describe the fuzziness of the information,but also correctly describe psychological measure of main body and take the limitation of cognition ability into account.In this paper,the simple and feasible methods of measuring membership function are presented.These methods are used to measure the fuzzinessof psychological measurement when human being is making decision.The description function is presetned according to the condition.These methods can describe fuzzy information more exactly and make decision more rationally.
Optimal Diameter Growth Equations for Major Tree Species of the Midsouth

Optimal diameter growth equations for 60 major tree species werefit using the potential relat ive increment (PRI) methodology. Almost 175,000 individualsfrom the Midsouth (Arkansas , Louis iana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas) were selectedfrom the USDA Forest Service’s Eastwide Forest Inventory Database (EFIDB). These records were then reduced to the individualsgrowing at thefastest rategiven their species and size, and nonlinear ordinary least squares regression was used toJt equations to a subset of points wi th maximal increment . Sugarberry is provided as an example ofthe PRIderivation process . South. J. Appl. For. 27(l):%10.
A study of home telehealth diffusion among US home healthcare agencies using system dynamics

ABSTRACTHome telehealth is a type of telemedicine technology that enables the collection and remote transmission of health data from a patient to a healthcare provider. It enables healthcare professionals to remotely monitor the health progress of patients, especially those with chronic illnesses, on a daily basis. By utilizing home telehealth, home healthcare agencies can provide better chronic care while reducing costs. Furthermore, the use of home telehealth has been shown to decrease the utilization of more acute care services, such as hospitalizations and emergency department visits. Hence, a widespread adoption of HT technologies holds great potential for the current US healthcare system. In this study, a Bass diffusion model is used to understand the diffusion of home telehealth among home healthcare agencies in the US over time. The diffusion model is embedded within a system dynamics model to study how home telehealth will impact the long-term utilization of services in the US healthcare system. ...
Framing the Study

This chapter frames the study and provides the rationale for its theoretical and methodological approach. First, I provide a historical overview of cultural and linguistic diversity in Japan, focusing in particular on the rapid increase of foreign nationals in the past two decades. This section is followed by a discussion of previous studies of bilingual education in Japan. I then discuss the theoretical framework of the study, which draws on the notion of imagined communities and Bourdieu’s theory of cultural reproduction. The chapter concludes with a detailed description of the process of the study.
Modulation of colonic motility by peripheral neural inputs to neurons of the inferior mesenteric ganglion.

Colonic motility is known to be regulated, in part, by postganglionic sympathetic neurons whose cell bodies are located in the inferior mesenteric ganglion (IMG). Several studies have demonstrated that the neural activity of postganglionic neurons located in the IMG results from the synaptic integration of neural input received not only from the central nervous system via the inferior splanchnic nerves but also from sensory receptors located in the periphery and received via the lumbar colonic, intermesenteric, and hypogastric nerves. To investigate some of the interactions among colonic motility, peripheral neural input to the IMG, and postganglionic neural activity, intracellular recordings were made from single neurons located in the IMG of in vitro IMG-colon preparations obtained from guinea pigs. Recordings of colonic intraluminal pressures were simultaneously obtained with these neurophysiological recordings. Gross afferent input to the IMG from colonic mechanoreceptors was found to be nonadapting, to be correlated with physiological levels of intraluminal pressure, and to vary with propulsive motor activity. Both peripheral and central preganglionic inputs to the IMG reduced or abolished colonic motility, but with varying degress of effectiveness. It is concluded that the firing patterns of sympathetic postganglionic neurons affecting motility of the terminal colon result primarily from the synaptic integration of inputs from preganglionic fibers of both central and peripheral origin.
Racial Threat and the Influence of Latino Turnout on State Immigration Policy

Objective We examine how Latino constituencies—their percentage of the population and their percentage of voters—influence the propensity of states to pass restrictive immigration policy, testing two competing theories. Method Using state-level data from 2009 through 2012, we examine the influence of Latino constituency size and Latino electoral strength on the number of restrictive immigration laws enacted by U.S. state legislatures. Results We find that states with larger Latino populations pass more restrictive laws, but greater Latino electoral strength leads states to pass fewer restrictive policies. This relationship is interactive such that increases in Latino turnout act to mitigate the positive effect of Latino population size on restrictive policies. Finally, we show that the positive effect of Latino mobilization is indirect, meditated by their electoral influence on the partisan and ethnic composition of state legislatures. Conclusions Our findings emphasize the importance of voting for minority substantive representation.
Cellular Aggregates Induced from Monolayer Cultures of Human Pancreatic Cells Correct Hyperglycemia in Diabetic Mice and Demonstrate Physiological Production of Human C-Peptide.

Diabetes is due to loss of appropriate insulin production by pancreatic islet cells, resulting in hyperglycemia and significant morbidity. We have developed cell cultures of pancreas-derived precursor cells that can be maintained for more than 20 population doublings in culture, growing as monolayers of undifferentiated cells. These monolayer cells can then be induced to differentiate into cellular aggregates that resemble islets when grown on different extracellular matrix components, including matrigel, or poly-d-lysine. The induced cellular aggregates, but not monolayer cells, correct hyperglycemia in diabetic (streptozotocin) SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency) mice after implantation under the kidney capsule. This animal model can be used to follow the process of differentiation from undifferentiated precursor cell to fully functional insulin producing beta cells, and to identify key proteins and genes involved in differentiation of pancreatic islet cells. Here we report that in the mice, after implantation of cellular aggregates, human c-peptide concentrations are controlled physiologically appropriately in response to glucose tolerance testing (challenged with 2 grams of glucose injected intraperitoneally) in the treated diabetic SCID mice (n = 6) as well as in normal mice that received implanted cellular aggregates (n = 6). Human c peptide is not detected in any of the control animals, nor in animals implanted with monolayer cells. Comparative RNA microarray data analyses, using U133 arrays (Affymetrix), were compared between the monolayer cells in culture and the cellular aggregates 48 hours after induction with poly-d-lysine. We consider of particular interest the up-regulation of BMP, CXCR4, and HGF in the cell aggregates, and the down-regulation of VCAM-1. We believe that these genes are necessary for either aggregation or for physiologically functional insulin secretion. When examined for greater than two-fold gene expression differences between monolayer and aggregated cells, 424 gene sequences were upregulated and 690 genes down regulated. In addition, RAGE display analysis for tyrosine kinases also showed that the kinases Erb-B2 and PDGFR-B were upregulated at 48 hours in the aggregating process. In contrast, DDR2, a collagen I receptor tyrosine kinase, was expressed equally in both monolayer and aggregated cells. In summary, the results suggest: 1) that a population of pancreatic stem cells can be isolated and cultured in vitro, 2) that these cells can be induced to form functional islet cells that correct hyperglycemia in diabetic mice, 3) that human c-peptide is physiologically regulated in aggregate implanted mice in response to glucose challenge, and 4) HGF, along with other genes of potential interest, is upregulated in the process of differentiation from monolayer to aggregated cell phenotype.
Optimal Switch Timing for Piezoelectric-Based Semi-Active Vibration Reduction Techniques

Piezoelectric-based semi-active vibration reduction techniques typically rely on rapid changes in the electrical boundary conditions or corresponding stiffness state. Approaches such as state switc...
The Complex Roles of Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin in Adipocytes and Beyond

Having healthy adipose tissue is essential for metabolic fitness. This is clear from the obesity epidemic, which is unveiling a myriad of comorbidities associated with excess adipose tissue including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Lipodystrophy also causes insulin resistance, emphasizing the importance of having a balanced amount of fat. In cells, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complexes 1 and 2 (mTORC1 and mTORC2, respectively) link nutrient and hormonal signaling with metabolism, and recent studies are shedding new light on their in vivo roles in adipocytes. In this review, we discuss how recent advances in adipose tissue and mTOR biology are converging to reveal new mechanisms that maintain healthy adipose tissue, and discuss ongoing mysteries of mTOR signaling, particularly for the less understood complex mTORC2.
Psychometric Properties of the Adapted Skillstreaming Checklist for High-functioning Children with ASD

This study examined the reliability and criterion-related validity of parent ratings on the Adapted Skillstreaming Checklist (ASC) for a sample of 275 high-functioning children, ages 6-12 years, with ASD. Internal consistency for the total sample was 0.92. For two subsamples, test-retest reliability was very good at the 6-week and good at the 9-month intervals. Child age, IQ, and language abilities were unrelated to the ASC score. The ASC total score was inversely and strongly related to parent ratings of ASD symptom severity. Significant positive correlations (moderate-to-high) were found between the ASC and prosocial skills scales and significant negative correlations (low-to-moderate) with problem behavior scales on a broad measure of child functioning. Implications and suggestions for future study are discussed.