cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Persistent Aneurysm Growth Following Pipeline Embolization Device Assisted Coiling of a Fusiform Vertebral Artery Aneurysm: A Word of Caution!

The complex morphology of vertebrobasilar fusiform aneurysms makes them one of the most challenging lesions treated by neurointerventionists. Different management strategies in the past included parent vessel occlusion with or without extra-intracranial bypass surgery and endovascular reconstruction by conventional stents. Use of flow diversion has emerged as a promising alternative option with various studies documenting its efficacy and safety. However, there are various caveats associated with use of flow diversion in patients with fusiform vertibrobasilar aneurysms especially in patients presenting with acute subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We report a rare case of persistent aneurysmal growth after coiling and placement of the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED; ev3, Irvine, California, USA) for SAH from a fusiform vertebral artery aneurysm. As consequences of aneurysm rupture can be devastating especially in patients with a prior SAH, the clinical relevance of recognizing and understanding such patterns of failure cannot be overemphasized as highlighted in the present case.
Testing, Understanding, And Validating Complex Simulation Models

This paper prescribes new methods for testing, understanding, and validating complex simulation models. The new methodology was developed by drawing analogies from systems in general, drawing inferences from specific systems, using statistical methods in novel ways, and by extending current validation methods.
Implementing On-Line Simulation With the World Wide Web:

This paper addresses the implementation of dis tributed, on-line simulation experiments with the World Wide Web. The paper first provides a basic overview of the on-line simulation ap proach. Next, we discuss the system that was considered in this study. The paper then de scribes the distributed object computing environ ment that has been employed in the study, including the specialized displays that can be accessed by a remote participant using the ser vices of the Web. Finally, directions for future research are outlined.
Multiple strategies in structured populations

Many specific models have been proposed to study evolutionary game dynamics in structured populations, but most analytical results so far describe the competition of only two strategies. Here we derive a general result that holds for any number of strategies, for a large class of population structures under weak selection. We show that for the purpose of strategy selection any evolutionary process can be characterized by two key parameters that are coefficients in a linear inequality containing the payoff values. These structural coefficients, σ1 and σ2, depend on the particular process that is being studied, but not on the number of strategies, n, or the payoff matrix. For calculating these structural coefficients one has to investigate games with three strategies, but more are not needed. Therefore, n = 3 is the general case. Our main result has a geometric interpretation: Strategy selection is determined by the sum of two terms, the first one describing competition on the edges of the simplex and the second one in the center. Our formula includes all known weak selection criteria of evolutionary games as special cases. As a specific example we calculate games on sets and explore the synergistic interaction between direct reciprocity and spatial selection. We show that for certain parameter values both repetition and space are needed to promote evolution of cooperation.
Simultaneous image acquisition from the Head (or body) coil and a surface coil

Any number of coils can in principle be used simultaneously and independently in magnetic resonance imaging if the mutual inductances are sufficiently small. Surface coils and head or body coils have equal sensitivity at some crossover depth of the order of 6 to 10 cm. Using a 7.5-cm-diameter surface coil that was intrinsically isolated from the head coil, images were acquired simultaneously from both coils and combined to improve the signal-to-noise ratio at 6 cm depth by 21/2. A similar experiment with the body coil showed 21/2 improvement at about 8 cm depth. © 1988 Academic Press, Inc.
Determining Antigenic Relationships on the Basis of MLC Testing. I. A Matrix Approach for Listing All Possible Antigenic Assignments

We present an approach for determining all possible antigenic relationships among a group of individuals, on the basis of MLC results. We assume that the researcher or tissue typer has a criterion for classifying responses into positives and negatives, and that this classification has already been done for the data set being considered. Given any set of positive and negative MLC responses, our technique produces all antigenic assignments consistent with the assumption that a response occurs if and only if the stimulator has antigen(s) foreign to the responder. No genetic assumptions are made.
Facilitating interorganizational collaboration: the contributions of interorganizational alliances.

In an attempt to promote service delivery integration and improve interorganizational collaboration, many recent human service delivery initiatives have included the development of interorganizational alliances such as coalitions and coordinating councils. Despite their popularity, little is known about how these alliances influence interorganizational collaboration, specifically the extent to which they alter the interactions among human service delivery organizations. The present study examined the interorganizational interactions, specifically the exchange relationships, within one county that was implementing two interorganizational alliances—a countywide coordinating council and interagency service delivery teams. Membership on both alliances was associated with broader interorganizational exchange networks. Organizations involved in a coordinating council were more likely to be included in client, information, and resource exchanges, and participate in joint ventures with a broader range of organizations. Providers involved in interagency teams also exchanged clients and information with a broader sector of service delivery organizations than nonparticipating providers. Observational data suggested that both alliances created structures and processes intended to facilitate interorganizational exchanges. Together, these results suggest that the development of opportunities for and encouragement of staff and leader involvement in these types of alliances may be an important part of our attempt to create a more integrated social service delivery system. The implications of these findings for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Introduction: Biomaterials and Implant Surgery

Over the last century, synthetic substances have been chosen for surgical implant devices based upon physical, mechanical, chemical, electrical, and biological properties. Early device selections were made from general trial-and-error experiences with many types of available industrial-grade materials. Evaluation criteria usually emphasized availability, strength, elastic compliance, chemical inertness, and relative costs. The recent era of inert synthetic biomaterials was initiated in about 1925, with emphasis on metals and their alloys, ceramics, carbons, and polymers. Since the 1970s, emphasis has been placed on relative comparisons of both host and implant biomaterial and biomechanical properties. Trends have moved towards biomaterials with active surfaces that integrate with the surrounding tissues and have incorporated considerations of implant properties that are anisotropic and more like the tissues being replaced. Where possible, the synthetic biomaterials are constituted specifically for surgical applications, with some biomaterials intended for complete replacement by host tissues. Biodegradation products from the fully degradable synthetic biomaterials would be metabolized by normal physiological pathways. These classifications of bio-inert, active, and degradable will be utilized for discussions about previous, existing, and anticipated (future) biomaterials. This paper will provide an overview of biomaterials and devices based on experiences from 1970 to 1994, using examples of biomaterial-to-tissue interfacial interactions to make key points. Correlations among material and tissue properties will demonstrate how and why specific biocompatibility profiles have evolved. The paper will close with a review of existing trends for surgical implant biomaterials and with predictions for the future.
Dynamic relations between fast-food restaurant and body weight status: a longitudinal and multilevel analysis of Chinese adults

Background Mixed findings have been reported on the association between Western fast-food restaurants and body weight status. Results vary across study contexts and are sensitive to the samples, measures and methods used. Most studies have failed to examine the temporally dynamic associations between community exposure to fast-food restaurants and weight changes. Methods Bayesian hierarchical regressions are used to model changes in body mass index, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHpR) as a function of changes in Western fast-food restaurants in 216 communities for more than 9000 Chinese adults followed up multiple times between 2000 and 2009. Results Number of Western fast-food restaurants is positively associated with subsequent increases in WHtR and WHpR among rural population. More fast-food restaurants are positively associated with a future increase in WHpR for urban women. Increased availability of fast food between two waves is related to increased WHtR for urban men over the same period. A past increase in number of fast-food restaurants is associated with subsequent increases in WHtR and WHpR for rural population. Conclusions The associations between community exposure to Western fast food and weight changes are temporally dynamic rather than static. Improved measures of exposure to community environment are needed to achieve more precise estimates and better understanding of these relationships. In light of the findings in this study and China9s rapid economic growth, further investigation and increased public health monitoring is warranted since Western fast food is likely to be more accessible and affordable in the near future.
PRE-COATED ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS WITH BONE CEMENT

A study on the feasibility of implants pre-coated with an acrylic bone cement has been performed. Four types of implants, an actual canine femoral prosthesis, a polished steel rod (0.49 cm dia. x 13 cm long) with and without pre-coating, and a sandblasted steel rod with pre-coating were implanted into canine femurs in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the interfacial shear strengths in addition to the bench test. After serial sectioning the samples in discs, push-out tests were made to evaluate the interfacial strengths of cement-bone-implant. The weakest interfacial shear strength was exhibited by the polished rod/cement interface (0.5 MPa) while the strongest was the "old" and "new" cement interface (23.4 MPa). The bone/cement interfacial strength was in between for in vitro (1.17 MPa) and in vivo (1.68 MPa). The shear strength of rod/cement interface increased substantially by sandblasting (6.84 MPa). The microscopic observation of the interface showed somewhat smaller gaps developed for the pre-coated rod than the uncoated rod due to the shrinkage effect. In addition to the overall increase in interfacial strength, the pre-coating may furthermore reduce the setting temperature, the shrinkage, and the amount of monomer released during operation due to the reduced amount of cement at the time of implantation. The more gradual transmission of load from implant to bone and "auto-centering" of implants during operation by pre-coating, are believed to be advantageous over conventional cement fixation method.
Distress During the Menopause Transition: A Rich Contextual Analysis of Midlife Women’s Narratives

1. Marcianna Nosek[1][1] 2. Holly Powell Kennedy[2][2] 3. Maria Gudmundsdottir[3][3] 1. 1University of San Francisco, CA, USA 2. 2Yale School of Nursing, New Haven, CT, USA 3. 3Family Health Care Nursing, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA 1. Marcianna Nosek, School of Nursing and Health Professions, University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA Email: mnosek{at}usfca.edu In 2010, nearly 400 million women worldwide were of menopause age (45-54). Although many women transition through menopause with ease, some experience distress and a subsequent decrease in quality of life. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the experiences of distress in women during the menopause transition. A narrative analysis methodology was used maintaining participants’ complete narratives when possible. In-person interviews of 15 midlife women were digitally audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Women shared narratives of distress related to menstrual changes, emotional instability, vaginal dryness, and decreased libido affected by their relationships with self, partners, work, and family. Some experiences were presented against a backdrop of the past and influenced by concerns for the future. Detailed stories illuminated the effect that distressful symptoms had on quality of life and captured how intricately woven symptoms were with the women’s interpersonal and social lives. [1]: #aff-1 [2]: #aff-2 [3]: #aff-3
Optimal decomposition of process networks

The tearing or decomposition of recycle process networks is extended to include the enumeration of alternate cut sets or tear stream sets. The optimality criterion is the response to convergence acceleration in the quasi-Newton sense and an algorithm is proposed to select the optimum cut set adaptively as the recycle computation proceeds.
Epithelial Cell Polarity Alters Rho-GTPase Responses to Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogen that preferentially infects damaged epithelial tissues. Previous studies have failed to distinguish whether the increased susceptibility of injured epithelium results from the loss of cell polarity or increased access to the basolateral surface. We have used confluent monolayers of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells cultured on porous filter supports for 1-3 d as a model system to investigate whether the differentiation state of a polarized model epithelium affected the response of epithelial cells to this pathogen. Confluent incompletely polarized MDCK cell monolayers (day 1) efficiently internalized apically applied P. aeruginosa via a pathway that required actin polymerization and activation of Rho-family GTPases and was accompanied by an increase in the amount of activated RhoA. In contrast, P. aeruginosa entry into highly polarized MDCK monolayers (day 3) was 10- to 100-fold less efficient and was insensitive to inhibitors of actin polymerization or of Rho-family GTPase activation. There was no activation of RhoA; instead, Cdc42-GTP levels increased significantly. Basolateral infection of highly polarized MDCK monolayers was less efficient and insensitive to Clostridium difficile Toxin B, whereas basolateral infection of incompletely polarized MDCK monolayers was more efficient and required activation of Rho-family GTPases. Together, our findings suggest that as epithelial barrier differentiates and becomes highly polarized, it becomes resistant to P. aeruginosa infection. Nevertheless, polarized epithelial cells still sense the presence of apically infecting P. aeruginosa, but they may do so through a different group of surface proteins and/or downstream signaling pathways than do incompletely polarized cells.
Partitioning of the refractory metals, nickel and chromium, in combustion systems

The partitioning of nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr) in a laboratory scale combustor was investigated theoretically and experimentally. Theoretical predictions based on chemical equilibrium indicate that chlorine significantly increases the volatility ofNi because of the formations of Ni-chloride compounds. Chlorine's predicted effecton Cr volatility at high temperatures ( > 700K) was minimal, although some volatile Cr-chloride compounds were predicted at low temperatures ( < 700 K). Experimental studies employed a 59kW laboratory scale combustor with a swirling natural gas diffusion flame through which aqueous Ni and Cr solutions were sprayed. Particle size distributions (PSDs) in the stack were measured by three different techniques: electrical mobility and inertial impaction for sampled aerosols and light scattering for in-situ analyses. All three methods produced consistent PSDs. Experimental data for Ni were also consistent with the theoretical predictions. and confirmed the large increase in Ni volatil...
The Effects of Scaling and Bias Configuration on Operating-Voltage Constraints in SiGe HBTs for Mixed-Signal Circuits

This paper presents a comprehensive picture of operating-voltage constraints in SiGe heterojunction bipolar transistors, addressing breakdown-related issues as they relate to technology generation, bias configuration, and operating-current density. New definitions for breakdown voltage, adopted from standard measurements, are presented. Practical design implications and physical origins of breakdown are explored using calibrated 2-D simulations and quasi-3-D compact models. Device-level analysis of ac instabilities and power performance, which is relevant to mixed-signal circuit design, is presented, and implications of the relaxed voltage constraints for common-base operation are explored.
Formation of self assembled monolayer (SAM) on metal surfaces for high performance anisotropically conductive adhesives

To improve the electrical property of the anisotropically conductive adhesive (ACA) joints, self-assembled monolayer (SAM) compounds are introduced into the interface between the metal filler and the substrate bond pad. The formation of the SAM on various metal surfaces and their thermal stability are investigated by measuring the contact angles of SAM compounds with a hydrophilic or hydrophobic tail groups such as octadecanethiol (ODT) and mercpatoacetic acid (MAA) on Au, Cu, Sn and SnPb surfaces. Goniometer testing and grazing FTIR spectra demonstrate that SAM molecules are readily adhered to metal surfaces. The concentration of SAM solutions, immersing time, thermal treatment temperature and time were varied as experimental parameters. From the current-voltage (I-V) measurement, it was found that the SAM treated ACA joints showed a lower resistance at the same applied current than nontreated joints.
Thermophotovoltaic system parametric modelling

A small radioisotope powered thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system was assumed. The system was simplified into a one-dimensional model with the emitter and heat rejection system as boundaries. Design equations were then developed which would allow parametric modelling of system efficiency emitted radiation incident upon the TPV cell, energy converted in the TPV cell, and energy absorbed in the filter and cell-to-cell gaps. A figure of merit was then developed for the emitter, filter and TPV cell.
Improving the performance of internet data transport

With the explosion of the World Wide Web, the Internet infrastructure faces new challenges in providing high performance for data traffic. First, it must be able to provide a fair-share of congested link bandwidth to every flow. Second, since Web traffic is inherently interactive, it must minimize the delay for data transfer. Recent studies have shown that queue management algorithms such as Tail Drop, RED and Blue are deficient in providing high throughput, low delay paths for a data flow. Two major shortcomings of the current algorithms are: they allow TCP flows to get synchronized and thus require large buffers during congestion to enable high throughput; and they allow unfair bandwidth usage for shorter round-trip time TCP flows. We propose algorithms using multiple queues and discard policies with hysteresis at bottleneck routers to address both these issues. Using ns-2 simulations, we show that these algorithms can significantly outperform RED and Blue, especially at smaller buffer sizes. Using multiple queues raises two new concerns: scalability and excess memory bandwidth usage caused by dropping packets which have been queued. We propose and evaluate an architecture using Bloom filters to evenly distribute flows among queues to improve scalability. We have also developed new intelligent packet discard algorithms that discard packets on arrival and are able to achieve performance close to that of policies that may discard packets that have already been queued. Finally, we propose better methods for evaluating the performance of fair-queueing methods. In the current literature, fair-queueing methods are evaluated based on their worst-case performance. This can exaggerate the differences among algorithms, since the worst-case behavior is dependent on the precise timing of packet arrivals. This work seeks to understand what happens under more typical circumstances.
Abstract 1635: Combination of the HDAC inhibitor romidepsin with the MEK inhibitor U0126 results in synergistic plasma cell apoptosis

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Histone deacetylase inhibitors such as vorinostat and panobinostat have been tested as single agents in patients with relapsed myeloma with nominal activity. Yet, when combined with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, clinical and laboratory evidence of synergy has been observed. We sought to evaluate the individual signaling effects of the HDACi romidepsin, with the intent of developing additional combinations that may lead to clues of mechanism of action on human myeloma cells. Single agent studies demonstrated IC50 values for romidepsin alone of between 10 and 30nm, further experiments demonstrate that growth inhibition resulting from romidepsin exposure includes apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Cell death is associated with increased caspase 3, 8, 9 and PARP cleavage. Cell cycle analysis indicates that romidepsin induces G0/G1 cell cycle arrest which is correlated with p21 upregulation. Cell signaling assessment demonstrates that romidepsin inhibits AKT phosphorylation. Surprisingly, romidepsin increases Erk phosphorylation with its resultant effects on cell growth, development and differentiation. Combining romidepsin with the MEK inhibitor U0126 suppresses MEK/ERK signaling, and synergistically enhances the antitumor effect of romidepsin (combination index value <1). Annexin V staining demonstrates significant apoptosis following 18 hr of treatment with U0126 (5µM) and 10nM romidepsin. Western blot confirms the development of significantly increased procasepase and PARP cleavage, as well as substantial downregulation of Mcl-1, Bcl-xL. The combination can overcome the antiapoptotic effect of exogenous cytokines, such as IL-6 and IGF1 in vitro. Further studies evaluating the effect of bone marrow stromal cells will be presented in addition of data evaluating other potential targets for oncogene addiction that can be used for further novel combinations to gain more understanding of the biological context of this combination both in vitro and in vivo. This study will improve the design of effective clinical combination strategies. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1635.
The Improvement of the Upper Extremity Function in Cerebral Palsy

There are merely three surgical methods for treating spastic hands in cerebral palsy: These methods are release of the spastic muscles, tendon transfer and arthrodesis. We have not found it advisable or necessary to carry out tendon transfer and arthrodesis. For the correction of a deformity in the upper extremity, we applied proximal muscle release and fractional lengthening of the musculotendinous junction. This method was carried out in 11 cases. The results showed that, 1) wrist and finger flexion contracture were remarkably improved by fractional lengthening of the musculotendinous junction, and, 2) thumb -in-palm deformity was not improved at all by the lengthening of the flexor pollicis longus.
Charge order and the metal-insulator transitions in A 1 / 2 A 1 / 2 ′ MnO 3

An interpretation is given for the metal-insulator transitions occurring in ${A}_{1/2}{A}_{1/2}^{\ensuremath{'}}{\mathrm{MnO}}_{3}$ using the double-exchange model but including the coupling of the electron to the Jahn-Teller distortions and a finite Coulomb interaction between electrons in the twofold degenerate ${e}_{g}$ orbitals. We find that, whereas the ferromagnetic state is metallic, the insulating state is polaronic. As one lowers the temperature, a transition from the ferromagnetic state to the $\mathrm{CE}$ phase is observed, which is, due to the strong phonon renormalization of the bandwidth, accompanied by a change in resistivity of several orders of magnitude. In order to obtain the observed magnetic structure, i.e., $\mathrm{CE}$ type, it is essential to include the lowering of the on-site energy due to polaronic self-energy effects. We present a way of building the charge-ordered magnetic structures out of small units of a ``localized'' ${3z}^{2}\ensuremath{-}{r}^{2}$ polaron with four antiferromagnetic and two ferromagnetic neighboring ${t}_{2g}$ core spins.
The Soviet Central Committee: An Elite Analysis

This paper is a study of the backgrounds of the members of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. The purpose of its first part is to present and interpret certain quantitative material concerning the background characteristics of the members of the Central Committee. The conclusion elaborates premises regarding the function of co-optation in the higher Party organs and suggests possible relationships of this function to the education and career experiences of the Central Committee membership as discussed in the first part. To pursue an ideal study of this type, we recognize that extensive interviews and depth exploration of the sociological histories of the members would be desirable. In the case of the Soviet political elite such a course is obviously not possible at the present time. Nevertheless, sufficient data exist to make a modest beginning toward what we hope will help to lay a foundation for more extensive analysis of elites in the Soviet system in the future. Two basic assumptions underlie our interest in the backgrounds of the Soviet political elite. First, and more important for this paper, is the premise that persons are co-opted into the Central Committee primarily, though not exclusively, as a result of the group associations they have made during the courses of their careers. These associations are largely career associations, and most of the members become part of the elite of important functional groups before they become members of the Party elite. Educational backgrounds, age, Party status, role associations, occupation, and other factors all converge to influence the development of the careers of the members.
Laboratory methods for quantitating HIV RNA.

Recent studies have shown that a very rapid turnover of HIV RNA occurs in the plasma of infected patients, with approximately 30% of the total virus population in the plasma being replenished daily.1,2 Continual viral replication and rapid CD4 cell turnover are thought to play a central role in the pathogenesis of HIV infection; additionally, high plasma HIV RNA levels have been shown to be a strong predictor of rapid progression to AIDS after HIV seroconversion, independent of CD4 cell count.3 These findings have led to increased interest in quantitating HIV RNA in patients for prognostic purposes. Perhaps HIV RNA viral load measurements will prove useful in the management of HIV-infected patients, both in predicting rate of progression and monitoring response to antiretroviral therapy. However, an exact role for quantitative measures of viral load has not been determined. Moreover, reliable measures are currently available only in research laboratories. Formerly, quantitation of virus from a clinical specimen required very expensive, labor-intensive, and difficult-to-reproduce culture techniques. Recently, however, quantitation of HIV viral load in plasma specimens has been accomplished with a variety of techniques that measure virion RNA and are less expensive and easier to perform.4,5 Three commercial assays that have not been approved by the FDA are available on an investigational basis: 1) Amplicor HIV Monitor Test, which couples reverse transcription to quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (Roche Molecular Systems); 2) Nucleic Acid Sequence-Based Amplification (NASBA) (Organon Technika); and 3) Quantiplex HIV RNA assay, a branched DNA (bDNA) technology (Chiron Corporation). This multistep test includes specimen preparation, reverse transcription and PCR, and nonradioactive detection.6 Plasma samples (200 microliters) are treated with guanidinium isothiocyanate to lyse the viral particles and release RNA; isopropanol is then added to precipitate the RNA.6 This first step renders the …
Research of Minority Kind of Sample Sampling Method Based on K-means Cluster and Genetic Algorithm

The classification favors seriously to the most kinds when the traditional sorter is used to classify the imbalanced data set.In order to effectively enhance classified performance of the minority kind in the imbalanced data set,one kind minority kind of sample sampling method based on the K-means cluster and the genetic algorithm in view of this question is proposed.K-means algorithm to cluster and group the minority kind of sample is used,and in each cluster the genetic algorithm is used to gain the new sample and to carry on the valid confirmation.Finally,through using KNN and SVM sorter the method validity is proved in the simulation experiment.
Developing and Evaluating a Self-Management Intervention for Women With Breast Cancer:

Reports of self-management interventions usually focus on efficacy and do not detail processes of intervention development and evaluation. We describe the development and evaluation of Managing Cancer Care: A Personal Guide, a patient-oriented cancer self-management intervention consisting of seven modules on the topics of self-management, care options, transitions, communication, symptom management, and self-efficacy. We developed and evaluated the intervention in stages by partnering with women with breast cancer. Stages were as follows: individual interviews (n = 25), intervention design, focus group (n = 6), pilot testing with metastatic patients (n = 23), and population testing with non-metastatic patients (n = 105). We used interpretive description and content analysis for qualitative analyses and used descriptive statistics to analyze module ratings and frequency of use. We report results of each stage and discuss the challenges of creating a self-management intervention that has broad appeal without taking a one-size-fits-all approach and implementing a self-management intervention in a real-world versus research setting.
THE RNA POLYMERASE II GENERAL ELONGATION COMPLEX

Eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA) synthesis is a complex multi-stage process that requires the concerted action of many cellular factors to generate a mature functional message. This elaborate process by RNA polymerase II (pol II) proceeds via multiple stages-preinitiation, initiation (Figure 1), promoter clearance, elongation (Figure 1) and termination - which have come to be referred to collectively as the transcription cycle. Although the preinitiation and initiation stages of transcription have received the most attention during the past decade, the past few years have been a watershed for biochemical studies of the pol II elongation complex. Recent studies have demonstrated the existence of several families of pol II elongation factors and nuclear proteins that can govern the activity of pol II during mRNA chain elongation. New findings have revealed that the elongation stage of transcription is a critical site for the regulation of gene expression. Evidence obtained to date suggests that eukaryotes regulate elongation by both 'general' and 'activator dependent' mechanisms. These mechanisms necessitate alteration of pol II's catalytic site, modification of chromatin structure, phosphorylation of the pol II carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) and involvement of other components of the transcription machinery to increase the rate and efficiency of transcription elongation. This minireview is an annotation on the recent progress in studies of the biochemical mechanism and molecular regulation of the elongation stages of eukaryotic mRNA synthesis. The recent developments that have guided our understanding and propelled current research on transcription elongation by mammalian pol II will be described here.
Polymeric thin film optical limiters

Heavy metal substituted phthalocyanines, especially lead phthalocyanines, show a strong nonlinear absorption in the visible that is useful in optical limiting applications.1 Previously, soluble phthalocyanines were synthesized and solutions of the active material were used in limiters. In some applications processable polymeric thin films are desirable. Such thin films can be prepared as guest/host systems. However, at the concentrations necessary for nonlinear optical applications, guest/host materials can yield samples with microscopic phase separations. Such materials have losses due to light scattering and degraded nonlinear optical properties. Another approach is to use functionalized polymers. Here we describe a random copolymer of Pb tetrakis (4-(3-aminophenoxy))-phthalocyanine and butanediol with urethane linkages. In this material a high concentration of Pb phthalocyanine is incorporated covalently into the backbone of the polymer.
Integer matrices, sublattices of \mathbb {Z}^{m}, and Frobenius numbers

We will count the number of certain matrices with integer entries. This will lead to estimates for the number of certain sublattices of $$\mathbb {Z}^m$$ . The results are then applied to the average behaviour of Frobenius numbers.
A 32 Gb/s Bidirectional 4-channel 4 pJ/b Capacitively Coupled Link in 14 nm CMOS for Proximity Communication

Board-to-board near mm-range proximity communication offers connector-less, sealed energy-efficient high-speed interfaces for computing devices. This work presents a 4-channel 4 pJ/b capacitively coupled interface supporting an aggregate data-rate of 32 Gb/s up to a 0.8 mm air gap. By employing a self-crosstalk cancelling coupler and self-resonance mitigating IC design, the prototype enables board-to-board high-density bidirectional signaling capability.
Molecular Mimicry in the Adulteration of Heparins. Chemical Basis for the Development of Oversulfated Chondroitin Sulfate and Related Contaminants

Abstract 4322 The main contaminant in heparin and low molecular weight heparins reported during the heparin crisis (2007–8) was characterized to be oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS). However, several other sulfated glycosaminoglycans have also been reported to be present. Dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate represent heparin byproducts and are invariably present in different proportions in heparin preparations. Hypersulfated derivatives of these are also found as contaminants. The chondroitin sulfate obtained from mammalian tissues and cartilage can be hypersulfated using simple chemical sulfonation techniques such as the chlorosulfonic acid to produce varying degrees of sulfation. The molecular profile of OSCS can be optimized utilizing various depolymerization methods to mimic the required molecular profile of heparin. Moreover, mixing of the molecular mass optimized OSCS to heparin exhibit the anticoagulant potencies in the pharmacopeial assays that are indistinguishable by the methods used prior to 2007. Initial studies carried out to obtain OSCS from bovine, porcine, squid and shark cartilage resulted in the generation of an almost perfect polymer mixture whose molecular profile was similar to heparin (14–16 Kda). The mixing of some of these OSCS preparation to heparin also showed either additive or synergistic effects in the anticoagulant assays. However, the OSCS preparations were resistant to heparinase digestion and some of the other chemical digestion processes. Several other heparinoids such as the galactans, sulfaminoheparosans and sulfated dextrans can also be used to contaminate heparins. Based on these observations, the development of OSCS contaminant was a result of a careful optimization of the molecular profile of non heparin GAG derived oversulfated derivatives and the knowledge of their biologic effects. Despite the implementation of sophisticated analytical techniques such as NMR and mass spectrometry along with the modified biochemical assays for heparin characterization, the heparin molecule renders it to additional approaches for adulteration utilizing chemically and biologically rational approaches. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Improving transplantation for IL2RG/JAK3 SCID.

In this issue of Blood, Abd Hamid and colleagues describe the long-term follow-up of patients who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for IL2RG/JAK3 severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and demonstrate improved B-cell function and improved quality of life (QoL) in patients who received pretransplantation conditioning.1
Cardiovascular fitness and the metabolic syndrome in overweight latino youths.

PURPOSE To determine whether cardiovascular fitness (.)VO(2max) is associated with the metabolic syndrome and its individual features in overweight Latino youths. METHODS A total of 163 overweight Latino boys and girls (body mass index (BMI) percentile = 97.0 +/- 3.1; age = 11.2 +/- 1.7 yr) with a family history of Type 2 diabetes participated in this investigation. The metabolic syndrome was defined as having three or more of the following risk factors: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, low HDL-cholesterol, high triglycerides, and impaired glucose tolerance. (.)VO(2max) was determined by a progressive treadmill test to exhaustion, and body composition was assessed using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS (.)VO(2max) was not correlated with any individual risk factor of the metabolic syndrome after adjusting for gender, age, and body composition in partial analysis. Furthermore, ANCOVA revealed that children with zero, one, two, or three or more risk factors did not differ in regards to fitness levels. CONCLUSION (.)VO(2max) is not independently associated with the metabolic syndrome or any individual feature in overweight youths of Latino ethnicity after controlling for differences in confounding variables.
Budget Difficulty and Performance in Unstable Production Environments

Budgets serve an important role in motivating employee performance. We examine how the difficulty of meeting a budget target (“budget difficulty”) and the stability of the budget environment affect performance. We use a controlled experiment where employee-participants perform a task under incentivized budgets. The budget is either stable, with a constant difficulty, or unstable, with difficulty occasionally increasing from the typical difficulty to a high difficulty level. We find that performance is higher in unstable than stable environments and is higher when the typical budget difficulty is moderate rather than low. Further, we find that learning in unstable environments is greater when the typical budget difficulty is moderate rather than low. This yields greater preparedness for – and greater performance in – unstable periods with heightened difficulty. We contribute to the debate regarding the usefulness of budgets by highlighting benefits of fixed budget targets under environmental uncertainty: increased performance and learning.
Multidimensional Golden Means

The golden mean, $$ \tau = \frac{{\sqrt {5} - 1}}{2} = \mathop{{\lim }}\limits_{{n \to \infty }} \;\frac{{{F_{{n - 1}}}}}{{{F_n}}} = \frac{1}{{}} = 0.618033988749 $$ (1.1) $$ 1 + \frac{1}{{}} 1 + \frac{1}{{}} 1 + \frac{1}{{}} 1 + \frac{1}{{}} 1 + \frac{1}{{}} 1 + \frac{1}{{}} 1 + \cdots $$ (1.1) is the hardest irrational to approximate by rationals [4, 6, 7]. Hence, its multiples reduced modulo 1 − 0, τ, {2τ}, {3τ},… — provide an excellent list of points in the real interval to sample for estimates of integrals [5, 9] and to select points to search for the maximum of a unimodular function [10]. (We use the notation: {y} = y − [y] is ‘y modulo l’, the fractional part of y.) The discrete analog is the sequence of multiples of F N − 1 reduced modulo F N . Applications for this permutation of the integers from 0 to F N − 1 are table searching [8] and rapid computer graphics rendering [1, 2].
High efficiency and long-term intracellular activity of an enzymatic nanofactory based on metal-organic frameworks

Enhancing or restoring enzymatic function in cells is highly desirable in applications ranging from ex vivo cellular manipulations to enzyme replacement therapies in humans. However, because enzymes degrade in biological milieus, achieving long-term enzymatic activities can be challenging. Herein we report on the in cellulo properties of nanofactories that consist of antioxidative enzymes encapsulated in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). We demonstrate that, while free enzymes display weak activities for only a short duration, these efficient nanofactories protect human cells from toxic reactive oxygen species for up to a week. Remarkably, these results are obtained in spite of the nanofactories being localized in lysosomes, acidic organelles that contain a variety of proteases. The long-term persistence of the nanofactories is attributed to the chemical stability of MOF in low pH environment and to the protease resistance provided by the protective cage formed by the MOF around the encapsulated enzymes.
Blended learning on family planning policy requirements: key findings and implications for health professionals.

Background To address unmet needs for family planning and advance women’s rights, US federal foreign aid recipients must ensure compliance with the family planning legislative and policy requirements. Because many health providers work in rural and remote settings, blended learning, which combines in-person and online experiences, is a promising approach for strengthening their compliance knowledge. Methods This cross-sectional study examined the effect of blended learning that included three components (online course, in-person training and conference call) on retention of family planning compliance knowledge. A total of 660 learners from 44 countries completed the online survey (8% response rate). Study participants were asked about their knowledge of family planning compliance and suggestions to improve their learning experiences. Findings Knowledge retention was higher in the group that utilised all three learning approaches compared with the online course plus conference call group (P Limitations The study relied on a convenience sample, which may contribute to bias. The response rate, while low at 8%, was representative of the user base, and included 660 respondents. Conclusion Participation in a blended learning training resulted in the highest gains in knowledge retention compared with online-only learning. These findings suggest that blended learning and repeat online trainings are critical to ensuring health professionals are aware of family planning compliance regulations.
Re-additization of commercial biodiesel blends during long-term storage

Abstract Commercial biodiesel blends were aged at 43 °C while monitoring stability. The oxidation stability—or oxidation reserve expressed as Rancimat induction period (IP)—gradually decreased from its initial value. At a predetermined IP threshold, an antioxidant was used to restore IP to the ASTM D7467 specification minimum of 6 h, referred to as re-additization. At lower IP values, the amount of antioxidant required increased significantly, and the effectiveness tended to be reduced. Once IP fell to essentially zero, the acid content increased to above the allowable limit and insoluble material was also detected. Storage life was increased relative to the as-received fuels as evidenced by longer time to produce acids. Experience in the field may vary based on storage conditions; however, these results indicate re-additization can significantly increase storage life of biodiesel blends when used with regular monitoring of IP and acid number. An assessment of the storage stability of the as-received fuels showed that the initial IP did not predict storage behavior, although fuels above the specification minimum remained stable for >12 weeks accelerated aging (1 year simulated).
The Human Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Its Replacement: Biomechanical Considerations

The inability of a mid-substance tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) to heal often leads to surgical intervention to restore knee stability, but there is much debate on graft selection and reconstruction techniques. We believe that increased knowledge of the function of the ACL, such as its tensile properties and its role in maintaining knee kinematics, will provide the baseline data needed to improve surgical treatment regimens.
Evolution and Developments of Modern Intelligent Networks

This chapter covers a wide span of technological strides that make intelligent medical networks conceivable in the first quarter of this century. Monumental inventions and innovations have been made during the last three decades. We present such breakthrough inventions in the society that are germane to modern intelligent networks. Even though medical intelligent networks are their infancy, the trend is well established. The emergence is eminent if not inevitable. From a perspective, the society and medical community is not deriving the full benefits of the intellectual, information, and Internet ages of modern day. The purpose of this chapter is to close the gap between the current technologies and the future medical needs for all digital medical age to offer the populous accurate, scientific, and well-founded science of medicine and healing and to offer the medical profession “knowledge-based” tools rather than the raw information-based searches through the Web space.
Muscarinic receptor agonists and antagonists: effects on cardiovascular function.

Muscarinic receptor activation plays an essential role in parasympathetic regulation of cardiovascular function. The primary effect of parasympathetic stimulation is to decrease cardiac output by inhibiting heart rate. However, pharmacologically, muscarinic agonists are actually capable of producing both inhibitory and stimulatory effects on the heart as well as vasculature. This reflects the fact that muscarinic receptors are expressed throughout the cardiovascular system, even though they are not always involved in mediating parasympathetic responses. In the heart, in addition to regulating heart rate by altering the electrical activity of the sinoatrial node, activation of M2 receptors can affect conduction of electrical impulses through the atrioventricular node. These same receptors can also regulate the electrical and mechanical activity of the atria and ventricles. In the vasculature, activation of M3 and M5 receptors in epithelial cells can cause vasorelaxation, while activation of M1 or M3 receptors in vascular smooth muscle cells can cause vasoconstriction in the absence of endothelium. This review focuses on our current understanding of the signaling mechanisms involved in mediating these responses.