cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Network Structure of Police Misconduct

Conventional explanations of police misconduct generally adopt a microlevel focus on deviant officers or a macrolevel focus on the top-down organization of police departments. Between these levels ...
TRENDS IN REPORTED PAYMENTS IN CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY FROM 2013 TO 2018 IN THE UNITED STATES

The need for transparency in financial relationships in the healthcare system has culminated in the centralized reporting database Open Payments, managed by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Reportable payments include consulting fees, honoraria, gifts, food and beverages, travel
Correlation of effects of blood flow rate, viscosity and design features on artificial lung performance

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the correlation of the effects of blood flow rate, viscosity, and design features on artificial lung performance. As the flow rate of blood through an oxygenator is increased, the transfer rates of oxygen to and of carbon dioxide from the blood are increased. The gas transfer rates do not generally rise as rapidly as the blood flow rate. At the lower blood flow rates, when the oxygen transfer is flow limited, the saturation of the hemoglobin reaches 100% before the blood has passed completely over the exchange surface, and a part of the surface serves to cause additional oxygen transfer by physical solution. As the blood flow rate rises, the proportion of O 2 transferred by physical solution falls, and at a certain flow even the hemoglobin becomes not fully saturated. The effective viscosity of whole blood has been found to be dependent upon the shear rate and upon the hematocrit. Results from the casting methods have shown that the intermembrane gap in the spiral-coil membrane oxygenators tends to be very uniform in regard to different angular positions around the spiral.
Host immunity and the colon microbiota of mice infected with Citrobacter rodentium are beneficially modulated by lipid-soluble extract from late-cutting alfalfa in the early stages of infection

Alfalfa is a forage legume commonly associated with ruminant livestock production that may be a potential source of health-promoting phytochemicals. Anecdotal evidence from producers suggests that later cuttings of alfalfa may be more beneficial to non-ruminants; however, published literature varies greatly in measured outcomes, supplement form, and cutting. The objective of this study was to measure body weight, average daily feed intake, host immunity, and the colon microbiota composition in mice fed hay, aqueous, and chloroform extracts of early (1st) and late (5th) cutting alfalfa before and after challenge with Citrobacter rodentium. Prior to inoculation, alfalfa supplementation did not have a significant impact on body weight or feed intake, but 5th cutting alfalfa was shown to improve body weight at 5- and 6-days post-infection compared to 1st cutting alfalfa (P = 0.02 and 0.01). Combined with the observation that both chloroform extracts improved mouse body weight compared to control diets in later stages of C. rodentium infection led to detailed analyses of the immune system and colon microbiota in mice fed 1st and 5th cutting chloroform extracts. Immediately following inoculation, 5th cutting chloroform extracts significantly reduced the relative abundance of C. rodentium (P = 0.02) and did not display the early lymphocyte recruitment observed in 1st cutting extract. In later timepoints, both chloroform extracts maintained lower splenic B-cell and macrophage populations while increasing the relative abundance of potentially beneficially genera such as Turicibacter (P = 0.02). At 21dpi, only 5th cutting chloroform extracts increased the relative abundance of beneficial Akkermansia compared to the control diet (P = 0.02). These results suggest that lipid soluble compounds enriched in late-cutting alfalfa modulate pathogen colonization and early immune responses to Citrobacter rodentium, contributing to protective effects on body weight.
Food Fights: How History Matters to Contemporary Food Debates: Edited by Charles Ludington and Matthew Booker. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 2019. 293 pp. $32.95 paperback, $90.00 hardcover

In Food Fights, Charles Ludington and Matthew Booker present an intriguing compilation of essays examining the contemporary U.S. food system and how historical change has shaped the social, scienti...
Can Ultrasound in Combination with Virtual Touch Imaging Quantification Predict the Dignity of a Parotid Tumor

Abstract Pre-operative evaluation of a parotid gland tumor is crucial in guiding treatment. This study evaluates the diagnostic performance of B-mode ultrasound in combination with Virtual Touch imaging quantification (VTIQ) in the assessment of parotid lesions. A prospective study of 268 patients with parotid lesions was conducted. Pre-operative ultrasound findings and VTIQ data were compared against histologic results. Ill-defined margins on ultrasound were associated with a significantly higher risk of malignancy (odds ratio [OR] = 1224.0, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 151.8–9872.7). Faster mean shear waves on VTIQ (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.47–2.23, per 1 m/s increase) and an area with shear wave velocity >6.0 m/s involving >70 % of the lesion (OR = 19.80, 95 % CI: 6.22–63.07) were associated with higher risk of malignancy. Addition of VTIQ to routine pre-operative B-mode ultrasound can provide supplemental information on the dignity of a parotid tumor, allowing for peri-operative procedural optimization.
Finding Talent Among Elementary English Learners: A Validity Study of the HOPE Teacher Rating Scale:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity of the HOPE Scale for identifying gifted English language learners (ELs) and how classroom and English as a second language (ESL) teacher H...
Improving diagnosis and treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Background: Vertigo is defined as an illusion of motion caused by a mismatch of information between the visual, vestibular and somatosensory systems. The most common diagnosis associated with whirling vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which affects approximately 3.4% of patients older than 60 years of age. Objective: This paper aims to educate primary care providers on how to diagnose BPPV by performing canalith repositioning maneuvers at the initial point of care. Timely treatment of BPPV in the primary care office is believed to reduce healthcare costs by way of limiting unnecessary diagnostic testing and lowering referrals for specialty care. Immediate treatment is also believed to improve the quality of healthcare delivery for the vertigo patient by reducing morbidity and resolving the condition without the need for referrals or imaging. Population Health: A review of the literature finds that delayed diagnosis and treatment of BPPV is associated with a host of deleterious effects on patients. Population health impacts include increasedrates of anxiety and depression; loss of work and/or change of career paths; inappropriate use of medications or emergency care resources; decreased access to healthcare services; increased healthcare costs; and reduced quality of care. Diagnosis: A history of positional vertigo and evidence of nystagmus with Dix-Hallpike positioning confirms the diagnosis. A detailed description of the performance of this test is elucidated. Treatment: The observed nystagmus is analyzed and classified based on directionality. Treatment can be initiated immediately with canalith repositioning maneuvers.
Isolated Quantum Systems Out of Equilibrium

In this chapter we present a brief summary of the current framework of non-equilibrium dynamics in isolated quantum many-body systems, focusing, in particular, on the aspects that are of relevance to the dynamics of 1D Bose gases.
Recovering Logical Structures of Data

Many powerful parallelizing compiler techniques rely on the structures of data and code. Unfortunately, in many real applications, arrays do not have syntactic structures. In this paper, we show that logical data structures can be automatically recovered from the flat, one-dimensional arrays and accesses. We present a framework and algorithms for recovering the logical multi-dimensional data structures.
The Impact of Financial Development on Domestic Investment: A Quantile Regression Approach

This paper presents an interesting analysis of the role of financial development in boosting domestic investment of a country. The findings of the paper show that the responsiveness of investment to developments in the financial sector is conditional on the investment climate already in place. The need for a well developed financial system is the most for countries who have low investment. Countries with high levels of investment have lesser need for such an infrastructure. We adopt a quantile regression methodology in a dynamic panel set up to explore our hypothesis. The results are based on a broad sample of developed and developing countries over a period of 24 years.
Human serum amyloid A protein. Complete amino acid sequence of a new variant.

Abstract Serum amyloid A protein (SAA), an acute-phase reactant and apolipoprotein of high-density lipoprotein, is a polymorphic protein with six reported isoforms. These are the products of three genes, i.e., cDNA pA1, cDNA pSAA82 and genomic DNA SAAg9, the last two being allelic variants at a single locus. We have identified an individual with additional novel SAA isoforms on isoelectric-focusing analysis. By using 3-bromo-3-methyl-2-(2'-nitrophenylsulphenyl)-indolenine (BNPS-skatole) cleavage of the protein at tryptophan residues we obtained the complete amino acid sequence of a novel isoform. Additional cleavage by endoproteinase Asp-N allowed verification of the tryptophan residues and complete amino acid sequence of both isoforms. The suitability of this approach to the rapid sequencing of SAA was demonstrated. Sequence analysis and quantification suggest that these isoforms are the result of the first confirmed allelic variation at the SAA1 locus. We designate the protein products of this allele SAA1 beta (pI 6.1) and SAA1 beta des-Arg (pI 5.6).
Using nonrandomized studies to inform complex clinical decisions: The thorny issue of cranial radiation therapy for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Background There are no randomized controlled trials to inform the decision of which cranial radiation therapy (CRT) strategy to apply to pediatric patients with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Procedure We performed a decision analysis using a Markov model in which we compared the life expectancy and quality-adjusted life expectancy when administering one of three CRT strategies to a cohort of patients with T-cell ALL: (1) omission of CRT for all patients; (2) CRT only for those with evidence of leukemic involvement in the central nervous system at diagnosis (therapeutic strategy); or (3) CRT for all (prophylactic strategy). Results When considering plausible event-free survival rates and late mortality after cure for groups of pediatric patients with T-cell ALL, the strategies of omitting CRT, administering therapeutic CRT, and administering prophylactic CRT result in similar short-term (7-year) survival. When considering the increased contribution of deaths from late effects, the strategy of prophylactic CRT is associated with lower life expectancy when compared to the other two strategies. The Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the strategy of prophylactic CRT was the preferred strategy only 5% of the time. Conclusions Similar short-term survival may be expected when comparing the strategies of total omission of CRT, therapeutic CRT, and prophylactic CRT for patients with T-cell ALL. Long-term survival is likely inferior for the strategy of prophylactic CRT. The synthesis of nonrandomized trials and the application of decision analysis can help inform complex decision making in pediatric oncology.
Striatal structure and function in mood disorders: a comprehensive review

Marchand WR, Yurgelun-Todd D. Striatal structure and function in mood disorders: a comprehensive review. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 764–785. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Objectives: A large and diverse literature has implicated abnormalities of striatal structure and function in both unipolar and bipolar disorder. Recent functional imaging studies have greatly expanded this body of research. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive and critical appraisal of the relevant literature. Methods: A total of 331 relevant articles were reviewed to develop an integrated overview of striatal function in mood disorders. Results: There is compelling evidence from multiple studies that functional abnormalities of the striatum and greater corticostriatal circuitry exist in at least some forms of affective illness. The literature does not yet provide data to determine whether these aberrations represent primary pathology or they contribute directly to symptom expression. Finally, there is considerable evidence that bipolar disorder may be associated with striatal hyperactivity and some suggestion that unipolar illness may be associated with hypoactivation. Conclusions: Additional research investigating striatal function in affective disorders will be critical to the development of comprehensive models of the neurobiology of these conditions.
The epidermal growth factor receptor as a novel target for cancer therapy: case studies and clinical implications.

Objectives: To update the success and obstacles using therapies targeted to the epidermal growth factor receptor including IMC-C225, ZD1839, and OSI-774. Data Sources: Research articles, textbooks, clinical protocols, case studies. Conclusions: Ongoing studies show promise using monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and other malignancies. Such therapies can be delivered with limited toxicity to the host, and initial studies have shown single-agent efficacy and efficacy in combination with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Implications for Nursing Practice: Nurses are directly involved in the delivery of these novel therapies and the management of associated toxicities. They serve to coordinate treatment protocols and help to ensure patient understanding and compliance.
An adaptive dynamic model of production and inventories

Abstract Four decades ago Franco Modigliani and Owen Sauerlender (1955) proposed a variable coefficients production smoothing model of the firm's decisions. The Firm holds initial sales anticipation at the beginning of the year but is able during the course of the year to continuously revise the sales anticipation for the remainder of the year based on the information that becomes available to it. Similarly, the firm makes production plans at the beginning of the year, but is permitted to continuously adjust the plans for the remaining seasons in light of the additional information available in the course of the year. The M–S (1955) model is a variable coefficients model: the relationship between production and sales varies by season. They attempted to estimate it for each season separately and reported some limited results of their model using the Portland cement data. The monthly data were aggregated to quarterly and also to the industry level as the anticipation data were for that level of aggregation. They reported results on estimating the model using first quarter data, and some preliminary results on the fit to the second quarter data. Our focus in this paper is on the production and inventory model itself and not on the utility of anticipation data. We can, therefore, use the monthly data and avoid potential biases resulting from temporal aggregation (Christiano and Eichenbaum, 1987; Ghali, 1996). We apply the model to the same industry M–S studied: Portland cement. We use data dissaggregated to the production district level. We also investigate the appropriateness of pooling monthly data into quarterly, by testing for the equality of the estimated monthly coefficients over quarters.
Micromechanics-Based Analysis of Stiffness Anisotropy in Asphalt Mixtures

The mechanical behavior of many bound granular materials, such as asphalt mixtures, is anisotropic in nature. However, the majority of the current mechanical tests and analytical models for asphalt mixtures are based on the assumption of isotropic material properties. This study investigates the stiffness anisotropy of asphalt mixtures using micromechanics-based models. The models’ parameters are obtained by quantifying the internal structure anisotropy in terms of the preferred orientation of longest axes and contact normals of aggregates. Image analysis techniques are used to conduct the internal structure measurements. The orientations of the longest axes are found to be easier to measure, and better descriptors of anisotropy, than the contact normals. Finite-element analyses of the internal structure are also used to provide insight into the mixture stiffness anisotropy. The mixture properties are selected to represent a wide range of temperatures. The stiffness in the horizontal direction is shown to be as high as 30% more than the stiffness in the vertical direction. The stiffness anisotropy decreases with a decrease in the mixture temperature. The finite-element results are shown to have very good correlation with the results of the micromechanics model derived based on the orientation of the longest axes of aggregates.
Dynamic Spectrum Sharing Among Repeatedly Interacting Selfish Users With Imperfect Monitoring

We develop a novel design framework for dynamic distributed spectrum sharing among secondary users (SUs), who adjust their power levels to compete for spectrum opportunities while satisfying the interference temperature (IT) constraints imposed by primary users. The considered interaction among the SUs is characterized by the following three unique features. First, the SUs are interacting with each other repeatedly and they can coexist in the system for a long time. Second, the SUs have limited and imperfect monitoring ability: they only observe whether the IT constraints are violated, and their observation is imperfect due to the erroneous measurements. Third, since the SUs are decentralized, they are selfish and aim to maximize their own long-term payoffs from utilizing the network rather than obeying the prescribed allocation of a centralized controller. To capture these unique features, we model the interaction of the SUs as a repeated game with imperfect monitoring. We first characterize the set of Pareto optimal operating points that can be achieved by deviation-proof spectrum sharing policies, which are policies that the selfish users find it in their interest to comply with. Next, for any given operating point in this set, we show how to construct a deviation-proof policy to achieve it. The constructed deviation-proof policy is amenable to distributed implementation, and allows users to transmit in a time-division multiple-access (TDMA) fashion. In the presence of strong multi-user interference, our policy outperforms existing spectrum sharing policies that dictate users to transmit at constant power levels simultaneously. Moreover, our policy can achieve Pareto optimality even when the SUs have limited and imperfect monitoring ability, as opposed to existing solutions based on repeated game models, which require perfect monitoring abilities. Simulation results validate our analytical results and quantify the performance gains enabled by the proposed spectrum sharing policies.
Estimation after subset selection from exponential populations

Let π1 πk be k independent exponential populations with means θ1 θkrespectively. Let Y1, ,Yk denote the sample means based on n independent observations from each population. For selecting a nonempty subset containing the best population (the one associated with the largest θi ) we consider the rule of Gupta which selects πi. if and only if where 0 < c < 1 is determined such that the probability of including the best population in the selected subset is at least P*, a pre-designed level. We consider the problem of estimating M, the mean of all θi 's in the selected subset, for k = 2. It is shown that the ‘natural’ estimator T is positively biased. An adjustment for bias of T is considered so that this adjusted estimator Tλ1 is unbiased when θ1 = θ2 The performances of T and Tλ1 are compared in terms of bias and mean square error for selected values of P*, n, and ρ - θ1./(θ1+θ2.
Ecology of the dorylaimid omnivore genera Aporcelaimellus, Eudorylaimus and Mesodorylaimus

Eudorylaimus, Aporcelaimellus and Mesodorylaimus are dominant members of the omnivorous nematode fauna in Florida, USA. Ecological studies that included numerical data on these genera were reviewed to determine key aspects of their ecology and behaviour. These three genera were also the dominant omnivores in many parts of Europe and often occurred together. Multiple species within genera may be present in samples as well. Although results varied with habitat, these omnivores were present in nearly all stages of succession but often reached their greatest numbers in later stages of succession such as old-growth forests. They also showed remarkable adaptation to extreme environments, including Antarctic habitats, dune sands and temperate sites without vegetation. They were found in a variety of soil types but limited by soil pH < 4.0. Compared with other nematode taxa, they were among the genera most sensitive to moisture levels in sandy soils and to pollution by heavy metals. Some reports also indicated adverse impacts from inorganic fertilisers and other agrichemicals. Much remains unknown about the ecology of these common nematodes, which are widely distributed in soil ecosystems.
Transcriptional regulation of basic fibroblast growth factor gene expression in capillary endothelial cells.

The growth of capillary endothelial cells (BCE) is an important regulatory step in the formation of capillary blood vessels. In vivo, the proliferation of these cells is stringently controlled. In vitro they can be stimulated by polypeptide growth factors, such as acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Since bFGF is synthesized and stored by vascular endothelial cells, this mitogen may play an important role in an autocrine growth regulation during angiogenesis. Here, evidence is presented for induction of the mRNA of bFGF by bFGF itself. A similar increase of bFGF mRNA was observed in response to thrombin and after treatment with phorbol ester. These results suggest that an autocrine loop may exist that may serve to modulate the mitogenic response in BCE under various physiological conditions, (e.g., wound healing and new capillary formation).
HLA class I recognition by killer cell Ig-like receptors.

Abstract Copyright 2000 Academic Press Natural killer (NK) cell activation is regulated by a combination of positive and negative signals coming from repertoires of activating and inhibitory receptors expressed on the surface of each NK cell. Receptors specific for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on target cells inhibit NK effector functions such as cytotoxicity and cytokine production. As reviewed here, the killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) family on human NK cells includes receptors with activating as well as inhibitory potential, receptors that have no known ligand, and inhibitory receptors with well-defined specificities for MHC class I such as HLA-B and HLA-C.
Clinical Assessment of Mothering During Infancy

Using reliable and valid measurements of mothering can enhance clinicians' and researchers' ability to identify problematic patterns that pose risks to the health of mothers and infants during the first postpartum year. A critical review of observational and self‐report instruments for measuring components of mothering is presented. Positive indicators of mothering are discussed, and implications for intervention and referral for problematic aspects of mothering are suggested. JOGNN, 35, 662‐670; 2006. DOI: 10.1111/J.1552‐6909.2006.00090.x
Race, Hispanic Ethnicity, and the Future of the College Business Major in the United States

Abstract This article explores the impact of race and Hispanic ethnicity on the business major. Results of a survey show that, when other characteristics are held constant, Asians and non-Hispanic Blacks are less likely and Hispanics more likely to major in business than non-Hispanic Whites are. If, for each demographic group, the high school graduation rate, the percentage of high school graduates attending 4-year institutions, and the percentage of students majoring in business remain constant, an increase in the number of business majors can be expected. However, if Hispanics and non-Hispanic Blacks make socioeconomic advances, the number of business majors is likely to increase to a lesser degree and may even decrease.
A Nanofiber Membrane Maintains the Quiescent Phenotype of Hepatic Stellate Cells

Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play a major role in the progression of liver fibrosis. The aim of our study was to investigate whether rat HSC cultured on a nanofiber membrane (NM) retain their quiescent phenotype during both short- and long-term culture and whether activated HSC revert to a quiescent form when re-cultured on NM. Rat HSC cultured for 1 day on plastic plates (PP) were used as quiescent HSC, while cells cultured for 1 week on PP were considered to be activated HSC. Quiescent or activated HSC were subsequently plated on PP or NM and cultured for an additional 4 days at which time their gene expression, stress fiber development, and growth factor production were determined. For long-term culture, HSC were grown on NM for 20 days and the cells then replated on PP and cultured for another 10 days. Expression of marker genes for HSC activation, stress fiber development, and growth factor production were significantly lower in both quiescent and activated HSC cultured on NM than in those cultured on PP. After long-term culture on NM, activation marker gene expression and stress fiber development were still significantly lower in HSC than in PP, and HSC still retained the ability to activate when replated onto PP. HSC cultured on NM retained quiescent characteristics after both short- and long-term culture while activated HSC reverted toward a quiescent state when cultured on NM. Cultures of HSC grown on NM are a useful in vitro model to investigate the mechanisms of activation and deactivation.
Computed tomography of primary malignant fibrohistiocytoma of the lung

A case of malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the lung is reported in pediatric patient-uncommon location as well as age group.
Intra-industry environmental disclosures in response to the Alaskan oil spill: A note on legitimacy theory

According to the legitimacy theory arguments of Preston & Post (Private Management and Public Policy, Prentice-Hall, 1975), social disclosures can be viewed as a method of responding to the changing perceptions of a corporation's relevant publics. Based on this theory, this paper examines the effect of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on the annual report environmental disclosures of petroleum firms other than Exxon. A significant increase in such disclosures is found. Furthermore, the amount of change is shown to be related to firm size and ownership in the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company. The results therefore support the legitimacy theory arguments.
Synthetic peptides as probes for conformational preferences of domains of membrane receptors.

Peptide models have been widely used to investigate conformational aspects of domains of proteins since the early 1950s. A pioneer in this field was Dr. Murray Goodman, who applied a battery of methodologies to study the onset of structure in homooligopeptides. This article reviews some of Dr. Goodman's contributions, and reports recent studies using linear and constrained peptides corresponding to the first extracellular loop and linear peptides corresponding to the sixth transmembrane domain of a G-protein coupled receptor from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Peptides containing 30–40 residues were synthesized using solid-phase methods and purified to near homogeneity by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography. CD and NMR analyses indicated that the first extracellular loop peptides were mostly flexible in water, and assumed some helical structure near the N-terminus in trifluoroethanol and in the presence of micelles. Comparison of oligolysines with native loop residues revealed that three lysines at each terminus of a peptide corresponding to the sixth transmembrane domain of the α-factor receptor resulted in better aqueous solubility and greater helicity than the native loop residues. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci), 2005
Spin-dependent scattering off neutral antimony donors in Si28 field-effect transistors

We report measurements of spin-dependent scattering of conduction electrons by neutral donors in accumulation-mode field-effect transistors formed in isotopically enriched silicon. Spin-dependent scattering was detected using electrically detected magnetic resonance where spectra show resonant changes in the source-drain voltage for conduction electrons and electrons bound to donors. We discuss the utilization of spin-dependent scattering for the readout of donor spin states in silicon based quantum computers.
Proteolytic Mechanisms Underlying Mitochondrial Degradation in the Ocular Lens

PURPOSE. To remove light-scattering structures from the visual axis, all intracellular organelles are eliminated from cells in the center of the developing ocular lens. Organelle degradation is accompanied by an increase in VEIDase (caspase-6-like) activity, but data from caspase-null mice suggest that the lens VEIDase is not caspase-6. The goal of the present work was to identify the lens VEIDase and determine whether it plays a role in organelle breakdown. METHODS. The approximate molecular mass of the lens VEIDase was determined by size-exclusion chromatography. Three proteasome inhibitors (NLVS, MG132, and clasto-lactacystin betalactone) were tested for their ability to inhibit lens VEIDase activity. Lens lysates were immunodepleted of proteasomes using an antibody against the 20S proteasome. To inhibit the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) in vivo, lactacystin was injected into the vitreous humor of the developing chicken eye. The effect of lactacystin on mitochondrial degradation was assessed by examining the disappearance of succinate– ubiquinone oxidoreductase, an integral protein of the inner mitochondrial membrane. RESULTS. The lens VEIDase eluted at approximately 700 kDa from a size-exclusion column and was inhibited by the proteasome inhibitors NLVS, MG132, and clasto-lactacystin beta-lactone. In vivo, the trypsin-like activity of the proteasome was reduced by 60% to 70% after lactacystin injection. Proteasome inhibition was associated with the accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins and reversible opacification of the lens cortex. In lactacystin-injected eyes, the programmed degradation of succinate– ubiquinone oxidoreductase was inhibited in the central lens fiber cells. CONCLUSIONS. These data suggest that lens VEIDase activity is attributable to the proteasome and that the UPP may function in the removal of organelle components during lens fiber cell differentiation. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2007;48:293–302) DOI:10.1167/iovs.06-0656
Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for treatment of irreparable superior–posterior rotator cuff tears and evaluation by isokinetic dynamometer

Abstract Restoring shoulder function in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs) is difficult. We performed a latissimus dorsi tendon transfer in a patient with massive RCTs to improve his shoulder function using a technique described by Gerber et al in 1988. After 1 year, his shoulder function was evaluated with an isokinetic dynamometer, and the results suggested better improvements in external rotation than abduction. Overall, the pain associated with daily activities was also reduced. The latissimus dorsi tendon transfer technique appears to be a good therapeutic choice for young and active patients with irreparable RCTs.
Everything you wanted to know about the running time of Mergesort but were afraid to ask

Although mergesort is an algorithm that is frequently glossed over in textbooks, it provides fertile ground for planting ideas about algorithm analysis in the minds of students. Why can we assume that n is a power of 2? How big is the increase in constant multiple if we do? And how do we analyze it if we don't? Here then is an excruciatingly detailed analysis of mergesor t for the student whose enquiring mind truly wants to know.
Incorporation of nonlinear thermorheological complexity into the phenomenologies of structural relaxation

A distribution of activation energies is introduced into the nonlinear Adam-Gibbs (“Hodge-Scherer”) phenomenology for structural relaxation. The resulting dependencies of the stretched exponential β parameter on thermodynamic temperature and fictive temperature (nonlinear thermorheological complexity) are derived. No additional adjustable parameters are introduced, and contact is made with the predictions of the random first-order transition theory of aging of Lubchenko and Wolynes [J. Chem. Physics 121, 2852 (2004)].
Immunologic studies of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): dissociation of biologic and immunologic activities.

The relationship between the immunologic and biologic activities of ACTH was studied in a series of natural and synthetic as well as chemically modified ACTH preparations. Three natural ACTH preparations, sheep, human and pork (αs-, αh- and αp-ACTH) and synthetic 39 amino acid ACTH (αp1–39-ACTH) had similar immunologic activity when tested by radioimmunoassay. In contrast, synthetic 26 and 24 amino acid ACTH (αb1–26-ACTH and α1–24-ACTH), although fully active biologically, had very little immunologic activity. Synthetic 1–19 and 1–17 amino acid ACTH (α1–19-ACTH and α1–17-ACTH) had no detectable immunologic activity, although they have partial steroidogenic activity. Periodate oxidation completely destroyed steroidogenic activity but had no effect on immunologic activity of natural ACTH. Fibrinolysin digestion abolished the steroidogenic activity of ACTH but increased the immunologic activity. A biologically inert fraction corresponding to the 22nd to 39th amino acid of sheep ACTH (αs 22–39-ACTH)was immuno...
Comparison of results from DNS of bubbly flows with a two-fluid model for two-dimensional laminar flows

Abstract Results from direct numerical simulations of laminar bubbly flow in a vertical channel are compared with predictions of a two-fluid model for steady-state flow. The simulations are done assuming a two-dimensional system and the model coefficients are adjusted slightly to match the data for upflow. The model is then tested by comparisons with different values of flow rate and gravity, as well as downflow. In all cases the results agree reasonably well, even though the simulated void fraction is considerably higher than what is assumed in the derivation of the model. The results do, however, suggest a need to understand the lift and the wall repulsion force on bubbles better, particularly in dense flows.
Effect of Strenuous to Exhaustive Exercise on a Discrimination Task

A line-matching test was given to 14 subjects while exercising on a motor-driven treadmill. The speed and accuracy of each subject were recorded for 4 3-min. stages of exercise: Stage 1, 2.5 mph at 12% grade; Stage 2, 3.4 mph at 14% grade; Stage 3, 4.2 mph at 16% grade; Stage 4, 5.0 mph at 18% grade. Heart rate was recorded for each subject continuously throughout the test. Increased levels of concomitant exercise produced significantly increased speed of mental performance but had no significant effect on accuracy. The speed of response dropped significantly after the termination of exercise (posttest).
Predicting clinically unrecognized coronary artery disease: use of two- dimensional echocardiography

2-D Echo is often performed in patients without history of coronary artery disease (CAD). We sought to determine echo features predictive of CAD. 2-D Echo of 328 patients without known CAD performed within one year prior to stress myocardial SPECT and angiography were reviewed. Echo features examined were left ventricular and atrial enlargement, LV hypertrophy, wall motion abnormality (WMA), LV ejection fraction (EF) 15% LV perfusion defect or multivessel distribution. Severe coronary artery stenosis (CAS) was defined as left main, 3 VD or 2VD involving proximal LAD. The mean age was 62 ± 13 years, 59% men, 29% diabetic (DM) and 148 (45%) had > 2 risk factors. Pharmacologic stress was performed in 109 patients (33%). MPA was present in 200 pts (60%) of which, 137 were high risk. CAS was present in 166 pts (51%), 75 were severe. Of 87 patients with WMA, 83% had MPA and 78% had CAS. Multivariate analysis identified age >65, male, inability to exercise, DM, WMA, MAC and AS as independent predictors of MPA and CAS. Independent predictors of high risk MPA and severe CAS were age, DM, inability to exercise and WMA. 2-D echo findings offered incremental value over clinical information in predicting CAD by angiography. (Chi square: 360 vs. 320 p = 0.02). 2-D Echo was valuable in predicting presence of physiological and anatomical CAD in addition to clinical information.
Distributed waveforms for networked meteorological radars

Distributed waveforms for resolving ambiguities for Doppler weather radar systems are presented in this paper. The novel approach is a network-based technique where spatially distributed monostatic radars are used to mitigate ambiguities in the measurements. The networked waveform system offers many advantages. First, it decouples the range ambiguity and velocity ambiguity from each other, whereas range and velocity ambiguities are coupled together in a waveform for single radar. Second, the networked waveform can be designed to measure very high velocities without the need for complex waveforms and advanced processing at each radar node. This minimizes the computational load on each node. Third, it can be used with low cost transmitter that has limited ability to support complex waveforms as opposed to a significantly expensive single radar system with complex waveforms. Fourth, the networked waveform system can be designed to meet a specific requirement over the coverage region without being restricted by limitation of an individual radar node in the network. Fifth, the distributed waveform enables direct estimation of dealiased wind field, which is critical for kinematic analysis of storm structure. Based on the results obtained from simulation it is observed that distributed waveform can provide high unambiguous velocities. A distributed waveform was implemented with a four node radar network and preliminary results show that the networked approach is a viable solution.
Hyperhomocysteinemic diabetic cardiomyopathy: oxidative stress, remodeling, and endothelial-myocyte uncoupling.

Accumulation of oxidized-matrix (fibrosis) between the endothelium (the endothelial cells embedded among the myocytes) and cardiomyocytes is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus and causes diastolic impairment. In diabetes mellitus, elevated levels of homocysteine activate matrix metalloproteinase and disconnect the endothelium from myocytes. Extracellular matrix functionally links the endothelium to the cardiomyocyte and is important for their synchronization. However, in diabetes mellitus, a disconnection is caused by activated metalloproteinase, with subsequent accumulation of oxidized matrix between the endothelium and myocyte. This contributes to endothelial-myocyte uncoupling and leads to impaired diastolic relaxation of the heart in diabetes mellitus. Elevated levels of homocysteine in diabetes are attributed to impaired homocysteine metabolism by glucose and insulin and decreased renal clearance. Homocysteine induces oxidative stress and is inversely related to the expression of peroxisome proliferator...
A quantitative analysis of sequential effects with numeric stimuli

In a simulated absolute judgment task, subjects guessed which numeral would appear next in a random sequence. Feedback was given after every trial. The average response for the nth trial was analyzed as a joint function of both the response and the feedback for the previous trial. The results confirm those of an earlier study by Ward and Lockhead (1971). Two new models are proposed to explain sequence effects in this task of infinite difficulty. Although computer simulations based on the models fit the data reasonably well, problems remain when attempts are made to apply the same theoretical reasoning to absolute judgment tasks involving actual stimuli.
Safety, celebration, and risk: educator responses to LGBTQ professional development

Research has explored multicultural teacher education from multiple, sometimes divergent perspectives; yet, these studies agree that what passes for multicultural education fails to address issues of educational inequity. This paper is part of a larger evaluation study of Reduction of Stigma in Schools (RSIS) – a professional development program aiming to empower educators to create affirming environments for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Interview data indicate that though workshops utilized a critical approach, what teachers embraced was a call to understand and “protect” LGBTQ students through the “safety” discourse – a form of understanding and valuing the “cultural other” – and investment in one time “visibility” or “celebration” events as symbols of improved school climate. Further, educators framed LGBTQ issues as “risk” issues rather than as equity issues, which continue to mark LGBTQ students as “victims” or “problems” in need of saving or solving. We p...
EEG spectral characteristics following ethanol administration in young men

Abstract The effects of consumption of low doses of ethanol (0.75 ml/kg) on spectral components of the EEG were investigated in 24 21–25-year-old males. A comparison of mean spectral power in 4 frequency bands (4–7 Hz, 7.5–9 Hz, 9–12 Hz, and 12–20 Hz) at 90 min post consumption revealed that ethanol, as opposed to placebo, significantly increased power in the two slower frequency bands, in both posterior and anterior leads. A reduction in the frequency at which power values peaked in the theta (4–7 Hz), fast alpha (9–12 Hz), and beta (12–20 Hz) frequency ranges was also seen following ethanol consumption. The ethanol induced lowering of peak power in the fast alpha range was observed in all 4 leads (F4-C4, P4-O2, F3-C3, and P3-O1), whereas the frequency changes in the theta and beta frequencies were only significant in a frontal lead. Ethanol was also noted to produce a decrease in the stability of the EEG in the fast alpha band as quantified by the coefficient of variation of power. Subjective response to ethanol was observed to vary depending on the subjects' pre-drug EEG pattern. Men with high amounts of fast alpha activity at baseline, in lead P4-O2, reported feeling less ‘high’ and less overall feelings of intoxication after ethanol than the men with lower amounts of pre-drug fast alpha waves. In addition, subjects were sorted into ‘low’ and ‘moderate’ drinkers depending on their quantify and frequency of drinking over the previous 6 month period. ‘Moderate’ drinkers were found to have more energy in the beta frequencies at baseline and 90 min post drug than ‘low’ drinkers. These results suggest that low doses of ethanol can produce fairly predictable changes in the frequency and content of theta and slow frequency alpha waves, whereas responses in the higher frequency ranges differ in relationship to such variables as drinking history and resting EEG patterns.
D- and c-optimal designs for exponential regression models used in viral dynamics and other applications

Abstract Viral dynamic and pharmacokinetic models often involve an exponential decay. In this paper, locally D- and c-optimal designs are derived analytically for exponential decay models with one to three parameters. Invariance of optimal designs to reparametrization is discussed and examples of Bayesian optimal designs are also provided.
Transient tasks and enduring emotions: the impacts of affective content, task relevance, and picture duration on the sustained late positive potential

The present experiments were designed to examine the influences of picture duration, task relevance, and affective content on neural measures of sustained engagement, as indexed by the late positive potential (LPP). Much prior work has shown that the event-related potential in and around the P3—here referred to as the early LPP—is modulated by affective content, nonaffective task relevance, and stimulus duration. However, later portions of the LPP (>1,000 ms) may represent either a return to baseline or a continued physiological process related to motivational engagement. In the present experiments, we tested whether modulation of the later LPP depends on varying motivational engagement using stimulus duration, affective content, and task relevance. The results of Experiment 1 revealed that stimulus duration modulates the sustained LPP (i.e., 1,000–2,000 ms) in response to affective, but not task-relevant, stimuli from a modified counting oddball task. The results of Experiment 2 revealed that the sustained increase in the LPP is sensitive to both emotional content and task relevance when the task requires sustained engagement with target stimuli (e.g., determining the duration of stimulus presentation). The impacts of emotional content and task relevance had additive effects on the later portion of the LPP. In sum, both emotional content and task relevance can result in a protracted increase in the later LPP. These data suggest that affective content automatically sustains engagement, whereas task relevance only prolongs engagement when it is necessary for task completion.