cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Disassociation between Preprandial Gut Peptide Release and Food-Anticipatory Activity

Animals learn to anticipate a meal as evidenced by increases in premeal activity. This learned response appears to be independent of the nutrient status of an animal because food-anticipatory activity (FAA) can be seen after entrainment by a highly palatable food when rats remain ad libitum on chow. Mealtime feeding not only induces an increase in activity but also appears to entrain the secretion of various peptides prior to a meal including insulin, ghrelin, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It is not clear whether these meal-anticipatory changes in peptides are causally associated with FAA. To assess whether FAA and preprandial peptide changes co-occur with meal entrainment using different diets, rats were conditioned to receive a 6-h chow meal, 6-h high-fat meal, or 2 h access of chocolate while ad libitum on chow in the middle of the light cycle. FAA was measured for 4 h prior to mealtime. Rats were then killed at 90, 60, and 30 min prior to mealtime and plasma was collected. Although the chocolate-entrained rats showed comparable FAA with the nonchocolate-entrained animals, they did not show anticipatory increases in the ghrelin or GLP-1. All entrainment conditions induced a decrease in insulin and an increase in glucose prior to mealtime. These data suggest that separate mechanisms may underlie the preprandial increases in ghrelin and GLP-1 and changes in FAA, insulin, and glucose.
Exenatide improves type 2 diabetes concomitant with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of exenatide on blood glucose, body weight and hepatic enzymes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and concomitant non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: One hundred and seventeen patients with T2DM and NAFLD were randomly divided into exenatide group and metformin group. Patients were treated with exenatide and metformin, respectively, for 12 weeks. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of treatment, body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, HbA1c, FPG, 2-h PPG, ALT, AST, γ-GT, and hs-CRP were significantly reduced, and the AST/ALT ratio and adiponectin were markedly increased in both groups. BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, 2-h PPG, ALT, AST, γ-GT, and hs-CRP were markedly lower, and AST/ALT ratio and adiponectin in the exenatide group were dramatically higher than in the metformin group. CONCLUSION: Compared with metformin, exenatide is better to control blood glucose, reduces body weight and improves hepatic enzymes, attenuating NAFLD in patients with T2DM concomitant with NAFLD.
Sentiment, Positioning, and Bond Returns: Evidence from the Stone and McCarthy Survey

This paper examines the forecasting power of the Stone and McCarthy Research Associates weekly survey of U.S. bond portfolio managers from its inception in September 1991 through October 1999. The survey gathers information on bullishness and the positioning of portfolios in terms of actual durations relative to benchmark durations and the percentage of assets held in cash equivalent securities. The evidence is consistent with the contrarian investment paradigm in that extreme levels of bearishness are associated with higher subsequent excess returns on the Merrill Lynch U.S. Domestic Master Bond Index over 3-month Treasury bills. Evidence also indicates that sentiment and positioning are strongly momentum driven and become more bullish when excess returns rise more over the previous two weeks. The finding that the respondents form expectations and position their portfolios as if excess bond returns are positively autocorrelated is inconsistent with evidence that excess bond returns are not positively autocorrelated over the sample period.
Promoter spacer DNA plays an active role in integrating the functional consequences of RNA polymerase contacts with -10 and -35 promoter elements.

Abstract Bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) interacts with conserved − 10 and − 35 promoter elements to recognize the promoter and to form an open complex in which DNA duplex around transcription start site melts. Using model DNA constructs (fork junction DNA) that mimic DNA structure found in the open complex we observed that the consequences of mutations in − 10 promoter element for RNAP binding exhibited a striking dependence on the presence or absence of a functional − 35 promoter element. A role of spacer DNA (a non-conserved DNA sequence connecting − 10 and − 35 promoter elements) in this phenomenon was probed with a series of fork junction DNA constructs containing perturbations to the spacer DNA. In the absence of a physical connection between the − 10 and − 35 DNA elements, or when − 10 and − 35 DNA elements were connected by a long flexible non-DNA linker, the dependence of RNAP interactions with − 10 element on the strength of − 35 element was lost. When these DNA elements were linked by a rigid DNA duplex or by a DNA duplex containing a short single-stranded gap, the coupling between the − 10 and − 35 binding activities was observed. These results indicated that promoter spacer DNA played an active role in integrating the functional consequences of RNA polymerase contacts with − 10 and − 35 promoter element. This role likely involves physical deformation of the spacer occurring in parallel with promoter melting as shown by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) experiments with the probes incorporated into spacer DNA.
Investigation of stable and transient protein-protein interactions: Past, present, and future

This article presents an overview of the literature and a review of recent advances in the analysis of stable and transient protein-protein interactions (PPIs) with a focus on their function within cells, organs, and organisms. The significance of PTMs within the PPIs is also discussed. We focus on methods to study PPIs and methods of detecting PPIs, with particular emphasis on electrophoresis-based and MS-based investigation of PPIs, including specific examples. The validation of PPIs is emphasized and the limitations of the current methods for studying stable and transient PPIs are discussed. Perspectives regarding PPIs, with focus on bioinformatics and transient PPIs are also provided.
Equivalent Unbonded Length for Modeling of Multistrand Tendons in Precast Segmental Construction

Recently issued seismic design guidelines for precast segment construction require nonlinear modeling of segment-to-segment joints of important bridges. The response of segment joints is highly dependent on the length of debonding of the multistrand tendon. Neither the seismic design guidelines nor the literature provide sufficient guidance on how to determine the equivalent unbonded length of such tendons. This paper presents key results and conclusions of a large-scale experimental research program that investigated the debonding characteristics of multistrand tendons. Results indicate that tendon slip relative to the grout is small in comparison with slip between the duct and the surrounding concrete. An equation to evaluate the equivalent unbonded length of multistrand tendons was developed with direct application to modeling of the segment joint response.
Scandium, chromium and europium in stone meteorites by simultaneous neutron activation analysis

Abstract Analyses of five chondrites by simultaneous neutron activation yielded average concentrations of (9·4 ± 0·3) × 10−6gSc/g meteorite, (2.2 ± 0.1) × 10−3gCr/g meteorite and (7.8 ± 0.3) x 10 −8 g Eu/g meteorite. Following the assumptions of Urey , these results lead to cosmic abundances of 32,6400 and 0.078 (per 106 Si atoms) for Sc, Cr and Eu, respectively. Except for lowering the europium abundance by a factor of 2, the Suess-Urey abundances based on chondrite analyses are not materially altered. The present results are consistently lower than the solar abundances reported by Aller, approaching nearly an order of magnitude in the case of europium. The concentrations of the three elements in two achondrites varied markedly; the Sc/Eu atom ratio, for example, decreased from an average of 410 for the chondrites to 190 for Nuevo Laredo but increased to 5700 for Johnstown, Colorado.
Renal cortical perfusion--preliminary experience with the dynamic spatial reconstructor (DSR).

The three-dimensional image data generated by the Dynamic Spatial Reconstructor (DSR) enables measurement of the three-dimensional distribution of blood supply in organs. We have applied this imaging technique to evaluate renal cortical blood flow distribution and compare it with distribution of radiolabeled microspheres. The DSR, a high temporal resolution volumetric roentgenographic computed tomographic scanner, was used to scan the volume containing a kidney in 0.13–0.26 s and repeating this scan 8–4 times per s for six s during a renal arteriogram. Five anesthetized dogs were studied in the prone position with the left kidney exteriorized through a flank incision. An electromagnetic flowmeter was placed around the renal artery and a needle placed retrograde into the artery for injection of a 2 cc bolus of contrast agent. During the scan the contrast agent was injected over a four s period during which radioactively labelled microspheres were injected into the left atrium. The tomographic images of approximately 10 parallel, 5 mm thick sagittal slices corresponding to the slices of the kidney used for counting microspheres in the cortical layers were displayed and analyzed. The time point chosen for analysis was the one in which peak brightness (i.e., concentration of contrast agent) was detected in the cortex. The spatial distribution of peak brightness values was compared to the number of microspheres at the same sampling locations. The microsphere-based value of regional cortical blood flow fell below the regression line for the juxtamedullary cortex and above for the outer cortex. This result is consistent with the preferential distribution of microspheres to the outer cortex whereas the contrast agent distributed more uniformly throughout the cortex.
Signaling Defects and the Nuclear Envelope in Progeria

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is a rare childhood genetic disorder with features of accelerated aging. In this issue, Hernandez et al. observe decreased Wnt signaling and extracellular matrix gene expression in a murine model of the disease, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies and further emphasizing the nuclear envelope's role in signal transduction.
Tidal Disruption of Periodic Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 and a Constraint on Its Mean Density

The apparent tidal disruption of Periodic Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 (1993e) during a close encounter within approximately 1.62 planetary radii of Jupiter can be used along with theoretical models of tidal disruption to place an upper bound on the density of the predisruption body. Depending on the theoretical model used, these upper bounds range from rho(sub c) less than 0.702 +/- 0.080 g/cu cm for a simple analytical model calibrated by numerical smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) simulations to rho(sub c) less than 1.50 +/- 0.17 g/cu cm for a detailed semianalytical model. The quoted uncertainties stem from an assumed uncertainty in the perijove radius. However, the uncertainty introduced by the different theoretical models is the major source of error; this uncertainty could be eliminated by future SPH simulations specialized to cometary disruptions, including the effects of initially prolate, spinning comets. If the SPH-based upper bound turns out to be most appropriate, it would be consistent with the predisruption body being a comet with a relatively low density and porous structure, as has been asserted previously based on observations of cometary outgassing. Regardless of which upper bound is preferable, the models all agree that the predisruption body could not have been a relatively high-density body, such as an asteroid with rho approximately = 2 g/cu cm.
Towards scalable optimal sequence homology detection

The field of bioinformatics and computational biology is experiencing a data revolution — experimental techniques to procure data have increased in throughput improved in accuracy and reduced in costs. This has spurred an array of high profile sequencing and data generation projects. While the data repositories represent untapped reservoirs of rich information critical for scientific breakthroughs the analytical software tools that are needed to analyze large volumes of such sequence data have significantly lagged behind in their capacity to scale. In this paper we address homology detection which is a fundamental problem in large-scale sequence analysis with numerous applications. We present a scalable framework to conduct large-scale optimal homology detection on massively parallel super-computing platforms. Our approach employs distributed memory work stealing to effectively parallelize optimal pairwise alignment computation tasks. Results on 120,000 cores of the Hopper Cray XE6 supercomputer demonstrate strong scaling and up to 2.42 × 107 optimal pairwise sequence alignments computed per second (PSAPS) the highest reported in the literature.
Calculation of the Yang-Mills vacuum wave functional

Working in the Schrodinger representation and A0 = 0 gauge, an approximate Yang-Mills ground-state wave functional Ψ[A] is constructed in the following way: we begin by constructing the vacuum wave functional Ψ0[A] of an Abelian gauge-field with global SU(2) symmetry, and then modify and generalize Ψ0[A] so that it becomes invariant under local SU(2) gauge transformations. This ansatz leads to a solution of the Schrodinger equation HΨ[A] = ϵ0Ψ[A] for the Yang-Mills vacuum, which, although approximate, may correctly describe its confinement properties. Given Ψ[A], it is argued that the vacuum expectation values of the Wilson loop integral A(rmC) and of 't Hooft's flux-tube operator B(rmC) satisfy the Wilson-'t Hooft criteria 〈A(rmC)〉−e -area(C), 〈B(rmC)〉−e-perimeter (C), for the confinement phase of a gauge field. The confinement mechanism is essentially identical to the one discovered by Polyakov in 3-dimensional compact QED. The reason for the similarity is that there is an “analog-gas” approximation to fixed-time vacuum expectation values 〈Ψ|O|Ψ〉: the analog gas in this case is a plasma of smoothed Wu-Yang monopoles.
Whole brain and regional [125I]-α-bungarotoxin binding in developing rat

These experiments were conducted in order to determine if the total number of binding sites for [125I]-α-bungarotoxin ([125I]-α-BGT) in rat brain increases and then decreases during postnatal development as predicted by comparison with skeletal muscle, and, if so, to determine at approximately what age the peak in binding occurs in the brain as a whole. A further purpose was to investigate the time-course of development of the [125I]-α-BGT binding sites in several brain regions. Specific binding for [125I]-α-BGT was studied using the pellets from a 20 min, 14,000 × g centrifugation of rat brain homogenates from 4 or 5 postnatal ages. At least three binding assays were done per region and per age, on cerebral cortex, cerebellum, caudate-putamen, posterior hippocampus, pons-medulla and whole brain. In most regions, the [125I]-α-BGT specific binding is measurable, but is low at day one, peaks at about 12–20 days and declines by adulthood. With a few exceptions, these data hold true whether binding is expressed as specific binding per mg protein, specific binding per gram wet tissue, or total specific binding per brain region. The absolute number of specifically bound [125I]-α-BGT molecules is undistorted by simultaneous or non-linear growth of cells uninvolved with α-BGT binding and, thus, is the measurement most useful in determining developmental changes. Whole brain has the same age-related pattern as in the majority of the brain regions, i.e., compared to 19–20 days, the adult brain actually has fewer total binding sites.
Experimental gastric ulcer in albino rats

Ulcers can be obtained in the rumen of the stomach of rats with several types of diet if the rat is first starved for a week. That these ulcers are not produced simply by a nutritional deficiency is indicated by the fact that rats fed with agar-agar containing some dextrose showed few lesions although they had suffered as much loss in weight as if they had had no food.
Oncogenicity by DNA Tumor Viruses: Enhancement after Ultraviolet and Cobalt-60 Radiations

Simian virus-40, polyoma, and LLE46 virus preparations were treated with ultraviolet or gamma radiations (cobalt-60) in a frozen state. Infectivity and induction of complement-fixing antigen and DNA synthesis declined as a logarithmic function of dose, the latter two properties being more resistant than infectivity to radiation by a factor of 2 to 5. Oncogenicity of all three viruses did not decrease with progressive amounts of both types of irradiation, but actually increased in absolute and relative terms (per infectious unit), even at the maximum dose of irradiation used (24,000 ergs per square millimeter per minute and 2.7 x 10 6 rads).
Ecological Distribution of Six Species of Shrews and Comparison of Sampling Methods in the Central Rocky Mountains

The ecological distribution of six species of shrews was studied using sunken cans in 14 montane and intermontane habitats in southern Wyoming. The vagrant shrew ( Sorex vagrans ) and masked shrew ( Sorex cinereus ) were cosmopolitan in distribution. Sorex cinereus was slightly more abundant in moist plant communities, whereas Sorex vagrans predominated in slightly drier communities. Merriam's shrew ( Sorex merriami ) occurred only in arid portions of the plains and foothills, and in short-grass prairie was the only shrew taken. The water shrew ( Sorex palustris ) occurred only along or near cold mountain streams and ponds. The dwarf shrew ( Sorex nanus ) and pigmy shrew ( Microsorex hoxji ) occupied restricted mountain habitats. The dwarf shrew was abundant in rocky locations in both alpine and subalpine plant communities; the pigmy shrew was taken only in peat-moss bogs in the spruce-fir zone. A comparison of snap traps and sunken cans as methods of collecting shrews revealed that snap traps failed to demonstrate the presence of Sorex nanus and Microsorex hoyi in areas where they were abundant. Also, densities of Sorex vagrans and Sorex cinereus indicated by snap traps were considerably below those indicated by sunken cans.
Prevalence and Clinical Correlates of Mitral Annulus Calcification in Hispanics and non-Hispanic Whites

Background Data about mitral annulus calcification (MAC) are sparse in Hispanics. We compare prevalence and clinical correlates of MAC in Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites. Methods We reviewed echocardiograms and clinical data of 337 Hispanics and 279 non-Hispanic whites, age 45 to 75 years. In cross-sectional data, prevalence and interrelationships of MAC, coronary heart disease (CHD), and risk factors were compared using multivariable logistic regression. Results In Hispanics, MAC was significantly associated with CHD (odds ratio [OR] = 2.06, confidence interval [CI] = 1.09-3.87), age (OR = 1.73, CI=1.21-2.49), female sex (OR = 1.87, CI=1.01-3.47), smoking (OR = 1.80, CI=1.01-3.24), and having multiple (>2) risk factors (OR = 3.43, CI=2.66-4.43). In non-Hispanic whites, MAC was associated with CHD (OR = 4.24, CI=2.00-8.98), age (OR = 2.87, CI=1.82-4.50), and having multiple risk factors (OR = 3.59, CI=2.7-4.77). There were no significant ethnic differences in prevalence of MAC. Conclusions Among Hispanics referred for echocardiography, MAC is associated with CHD and risk factors.
Infiltrated atrial fat characterizes underlying atrial fibrillation substrate in patients at risk as defined by the ARIC atrial fibrillation risk score.

Abstract Background It is known that expanded epicardial fat is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, infiltrated intraatrial fat has not been previously quantified in individuals at risk as determined by the ARIC AF risk score. Methods Patients in sinus rhythm (N=90, age 57±10years; 55 men [63.2%]), in 3 groups at risk of AF as determined by the ARIC AF risk score [low (≤11 points; n=15), moderate (12–18 points; n=40), high (≥19 points; n=23) risk of AF], and paroxysmal AF (n=12) underwent cardiac magnetic resonance study. Intraatrial and epicardial fat was analyzed with a Dark-blood DIR-prepared Fat-Water-separated sequence in the horizontal longitudinal axis. OsiriX DICOM viewer (Geneva, Switzerland) was used to quantify the intraatrial fat area. Width of the cephalad portion of the interatrial septum was measured at the level of the fossa ovalis. Results Intraatrial fat monotonically increased with growing AF risk in study groups (low AF risk 16±4 vs. moderate AF risk 32±18 vs. high AF risk 81±83mm 2 ; ANOVA P=0.012). Log-transformed intraatrial fat predicted ARIC AF risk score in multivariate ordered probit regression after adjustment for sex, race, left and right atrial area indices, and body mass index (β-coefficient 0.50 [95% CI 0.03–0.97]; P=0.037), whereas epicardial fat did not. Interatrial septum width showed similar association (3.0±1.4 vs. 5.0±1.8 vs. 7.1±2.7mm; ANOVA P Conclusions Infiltrated intraatrial fat characterizes evolving substrate in individuals at risk of AF.
Histone acetylations mark origins of polycistronic transcription in Leishmania major

Many components of the RNA polymerase II transcription machinery have been identified in kinetoplastid protozoa, but they diverge substantially from other eukaryotes. Furthermore, protein-coding genes in these organisms lack individual transcriptional regulation, since they are transcribed as long polycistronic units. The transcription initiation sites are assumed to lie within the 'divergent strand-switch' regions at the junction between opposing polycistronic gene clusters. However, the mechanism by which Kinetoplastidae initiate transcription is unclear, and promoter sequences are undefined. The chromosomal location of TATA-binding protein (TBP or TRF4), Small Nuclear Activating Protein complex (SNAP50), and H3 histones were assessed in Leishmania major using microarrays hybridized with DNA obtained through chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP-chip). The TBP and SNAP50 binding patterns were almost identical and high intensity peaks were associated with tRNAs and snRNAs. Only 184 peaks of acetylated H3 histone were found in the entire genome, with substantially higher intensity in rapidly-dividing cells than stationary-phase. The majority of the acetylated H3 peaks were found at divergent strand-switch regions, but some occurred at chromosome ends and within polycistronic gene clusters. Almost all these peaks were associated with lower intensity peaks of TBP/SNAP50 binding a few kilobases upstream, evidence that they represent transcription initiation sites. The first genome-wide maps of DNA-binding protein occupancy in a kinetoplastid organism suggest that H3 histones at the origins of polycistronic transcription of protein-coding genes are acetylated. Global regulation of transcription initiation may be achieved by modifying the acetylation state of these origins.
On Wilbrink's theorem

Abstract An easy extension of Wilbrink's Theorem on planar difference sets for higher values of λ is given. It follows that the Bruck-Ryser-Hall conjecture on the super-fluousness of the “p > λ” condition (or its variations thereof) in the multiplier theorems implies Hall's conjecture on the existence of only a finite number of (ν, κ, λ) abelian difference sets, for the case λ odd and κ − λ ≡ 2 (mod 4). More strongly, under these conditions we can show that the corresponding designs are Hadamard, i.e., k = 2λ + 1 and ν = 2k + 1.
Anisotropic magnetic properties and magnetic ordering in molecular decamethylferrocenium tetracyanoethanide

Abstract We report magnetic susceptibility ( ξ spin (T)) and magnetization measurements for single crystals of the compound decamethylferrocenium tetracyanoethanide, (DMeFc)(TCNE), with the needle axis oriented parallel and perpendicular to the applied field. Magnetic ordering studies carried out using neutron diffraction show enhancement' of the Bragg peaks at temperatures less than 4.8K. The susceptibility for 16 K
Language, speech, and personal solid state devices

It is my purpose to discuss here the components of speech as a function of language and to point out the degree to which several new solid state electronic devices simulate speech.
An algorithm for massively parallel dislocation dynamics simulations of small scale plasticity

Abstract Accurate modeling of dislocation motion in bounded bodies is essential for the goal of obtaining desired properties, for example electronic or optical, of many microelectronic devices. At present, we lack high fidelity computer codes for such modeling that efficiently utilize modern parallel computer architectures. In contrast, many dislocation simulation codes are available for periodic or infinite bodies. In principle, these codes can be extended to allow for dislocation modeling in finite bodies. However, such extension may involve an additional solver to be employed, coupled with a dislocation simulation code. We present an algorithm for development of parallel dislocation simulation capability for bounded bodies based on such coupling. Subsequently, we analyze the performance of the algorithm for a demanding dislocation dynamics model problem.
Partially intelligent automobiles and driving experience at the moment of system transition

The current study (N = 49) took a user-centered approach to explore how level of automation (pedal automated, wheel automated or fully automated driving) and the interface modality (switching automation on or off via touch or voice control) in automated vehicles influence drivers' perceived experience and performance. The results found that full or wheel automation in vehicles was perceived significantly more intelligent than pedal automation. Furthermore, drivers in the pedal automation condition reported greater nervousness when using the touch interface than the voice interface. This tendency was not found among drivers in the full and wheel automation conditions. Drivers who used the voice interface to control automated driving had fewer driving mistakes than those who operated the touch interface. Our findings have important psychological and practical implications for designing a user interface for automated vehicles.
Effects of CO2 enrichment and water stress on gas exchange of Liquidambar styraciflua and Pinus taeda seedlings grown under different irradiance levels

The effects of CO2 enrichment and water stress on gas exchange of Liquidambar styraciflua L. (sweetgum) and Pinus taeda L. (loblolly pine) seedlings were examined for individuals grown from seed under high (1000 μmol·m-2·s-1) and low (250 μmol·m-2·s-1) photosynthetic photon flux density at 350, 675 and 1000 μl·l-1 CO2. At 8 weeks of age, half the seedlings in each CO2-irradiance treatment were subjected to a drying cycle which reduced plant water potential to about -2.5 MPa in the most stressed plants, while control plants remained well-watered (water potentials of -0.3 and -0.7 MPa for sweetgum and loblolly pine, respectively). During this stress cycle, whole seedling net photosynthesis, transpiration and stomatal conductance of plants from each CO2-irradiance-water treatment were measured under respective growth conditions.
Material and device properties of heteroepitaxial GaAs on BeO

Abstract Material and device studies have been made on GaAs films grown by the trimethylgallium-arsine reaction on single crystal flux-grown BeO. The electrical properties of the films were found to be inferior to those grown on Al 2 O 3 ; however, preliminary measurements on p - n junctions and Schottky-barrier FET's do suggest that device properties approaching those obtained in homoepitaxial GaAs may be achieved. Further improvements in film quality will be required before obtaining characteristics necessary for microwave applications.
Physician impairment and professionalism.

W543 process, the loss of motor skills, or the excessive use or abuse of drugs, including alcohol.” In this article, we will focus primarily on impairment related to substance abuse, but many of these principles apply to other causes of impairment as well. An estimated 6% of physicians have a drug use disorder, and 14% have an alcohol use disorder—figures roughly comparable to rates of addiction in the general population [4]. Signs and symptoms vary but may include tardiness, unusual work hours, decrease in quality of care, secrecy, decreased productivity, conflicts with colleagues, irritability, signs of intoxication, and a history of changing jobs frequently [5]. Detecting and dealing with issues of impairment are important aspects of professional responsibility. The status of medicine as a profession rests in part on the commitment of physicians to participate actively in self-regulation, “including remediation and discipline of members who have failed to meet professional standards” [6]. Although confronting such issues may be unpleasant, physicians are expected to put the welfare of patients and the public first [6]. When this ethical responsibility has not been upheld, physicians and the profession of medicine have come under harsh criticism for “inappropriately protecting the careers and reputations of colleagues at the expense of the health and well-being of the public” [3]. Although, the public generally respects the right of the medical profession to regulate itself, due to the complex skills and knowledge of physicians and the sensitive nature of the doctor-patient relationship, this respect is not so great that patient and public welfare can be jeopardized. If the medical profession has fallen short in addressing physician impairment, part of the problem may stem from cognitive dissonance— more specifically, a conflict between physicians’ beliefs and their behavior when it comes to issues of impairment. In the abstract, most Physician Impairment and Professionalism
Using virtual reality as a tool to enhance classroom instruction

Because Virtual Reality (VR) offers the opportunity to visualize, explore, manipulate, and interact with objects within a computer generated environment, it is hypothesized to be an excellent educational tool for use in classroom instruction for engineering students involved in design development, evaluation, and validation. The goal of this research study was to explore the possibilities of using VR in Ergonomics courses within the Industrial Engineering curriculum; specifically this paper assesses the perceptions of students and the ability of students to use VR as a tool for performing ergonomic evaluations of work tasks and workstations. The objectives of this project were constructed to answer two important questions. Can VR be used to perform ergonomic analysis? How accurately can students perform ergonomic evaluations within a VR environment?
Testing properties of dataflow program operators

Dataflow programming languages, which represent programs as graphs of data streams and operators, are becoming increasingly popular and being used to create a wide array of commercial software applications. The dependability of programs written in these languages, as well as the systems used to compile and run these programs, hinges on the correctness of the semantic properties associated with operators. Unfortunately, these properties are often poorly defined, and frequently are not checked, and this can lead to a wide range of problems in the programs that use the operators. In this paper we present an approach for improving the dependability of dataflow programs by checking operators for necessary properties. Our approach is dynamic, and involves generating tests whose results are checked to determine whether specific properties hold or not. We present empirical data that shows that our approach is both effective and efficient at assessing the status of properties.
Uniaxial Stress Apparatus for Measurements of Optical Activity

A device is described with which the optical activity of crystalline materials under stress can be measured. The sample is not moved, but a three-axis rotation is possible.
Insulin receptor aggregation and autophosphorylation in the presence of cationic polyamino acids.

Abstract Aggregation and autophosphorylation of the insulin receptor-protein kinase, from cultured 3T3-L1 adipocytes, were studied in the presence of cationic polyamino acids. Poly-L-lysine and poly-L-arginine produced the following effects with the purified receptor: first, the autophosphorylation rate was increased by polycations. Half-maximal stimulation was proportional to polymer length. The rate enhancement was greater at lower ATP concentrations. Second, near-endpoint (equilibrium) autophosphorylation was greater in the presence of the polycations. Polycations inhibited the reverse reaction: ADP + phosphoreceptor yielding ATP + aporeceptor. Third, the [32P]phosphopeptides generated by trypsin digestion of the 32P-beta-subunit, showed that no new autophosphorylation sites resulted from the presence of polycations. Fourth, the polycations, but not insulin, promoted receptor aggregation, and phosphoreceptor aggregated more readily than aporeceptor. Insulin receptor enriched through the wheat germ agglutinin eluate step was compared with purified receptor. Higher concentrations of poly-L-arginine were required to stimulate autophosphorylation and to promote aggregation. Finally, several polycation-dependent substrates present in the wheat germ agglutinin eluate co-aggregated with the insulin receptor. Polycation-stimulated receptor autophosphorylation is linked to a lower KM,app for ATP, but substrate phosphorylation may require the aggregation.
The effect of density upon deposit-feeding populations: Movement, feeding and floating of Hydrobia ventrosa Montagu (Gastropoda: Prosobranchia)

Crawling rate, feeding rate and floating frequency were measured for laboratory populations of the deposit-feeding snail Hydrobia ventrosa at densities of 0.3-16 snails cm-2. Both movement and feeding were depressed with increasing density. However, floating increased with increasing density. Crowding effects are thus important in deposit-feeding populations and must be considered along with resource-renewal in considerations of population control. Floating may be an adaptation to escape crowded conditions.
Impact of induction concurrent chemoradiotherapy on pulmonary function and postoperative acute respiratory complications in esophageal cancer

Study objective To evaluate the effects of induction concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) on pulmonary function and postoperative acute respiratory complications (PARCs). Design A retrospective review of our patients treated with induction cCRT to determine the impact on pulmonary function and identify predictors of PARCs. Correlations were sought between patient demographics, clinical characteristics, pre-cCRT and post-cCRT pulmonary function, radiotherapy dose, chemotherapy agents, and the development of PARCs. Participants One hundred fifty-five patients treated in three separate clinical trials were identified; 47 patients received 30 Gy (150 cGy bid) of radiation concurrently with a single course of cisplatin/5-fluorouracil (5FU), and 108 patients received 45 Gy (150 cGy bid in a split course) concurrent with two courses of either cisplatin/5FU (n = 69) or cisplatin/paclitaxel (n = 39). Esophagectomy was performed in 141 of these 155 patients following cCRT. Results cCRT was only associated with significant worsening of the diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (D lco ), which decreased a median of 21.7% in the 45-Gy group (p = 0.007), and 8.6% in the 30-Gy group (p = 0.07). This D lco decrease was statistically greater in the 45-Gy group than in the 30-Gy group (p = 0.02). PARCs developed in 18 patients. Percentage of predicted FEV 1 and FVC, both before and after cCRT, were both significantly higher in patients without PARCs than in patients with PARCs (p = 0.031 and p = 0.010, respectively). Post-cCRT D lco was also significantly worse in patients with PARCs (p = 0.002). PARCs occurred significantly more often among those treated with 45 Gy (17 of 102 patients) compared to those treated with 30 Gy (1 of 39 patients) [p = 0.025]. In the 18 patients with PARCs, the median survival was only 2.1 months. This was significantly less than the 16.4-month median survival in the 123 patients who did not have PARCs (p = 0.001). Conclusions In patients treated with induction cCRT, higher radiation doses result in increasing impairment of gas exchange. PARCs were more likely in those patients with lower lung volumes, lower post-cCRT D lco , and in those receiving higher radiation doses. These acute respiratory complications were also associated with a significant reduction in patient survival.
Constant-volume pressure measurements on BCC solid3He

Measurements have been made of the pressure of the bcc phase of solid3He at molar volumes from 24.2 to 23.2 cm3 and at temperatures from 25 to 0.5 mK. The solid undergoes an unusual antiferromagnetic ordering at a temperature that depends strongly on the sample density. This ordering is due to the unusually large exchange interaction in solid3He, a factor of 104 stronger than the nuclear dipole-dipole interaction. The large latent heat associated with the first-order transition has constrained the size of the sample. The pressure of 0.005 cm3 of solid3He has been measured while the volume of the experimental cell was regulated to within 15 parts in 106. The results provide information on the magnitudes and molar volume dependences of the exchange rates, and suggest that a single physical process governs all aspects of the ordering transition.
Repression of RNA transcription during the development of analgesic tolerance to morphine

SEVERAL reports suggest that RNA and protein synthesis are important for the development of morphine-induced analgesic tolerance and dependency1–4. Following up these reports, we have examined the effect of chronic morphine drugging on the intracellular site of RNA synthesis-nuclear chromatin. We found that brain chromatin from rats tolerant to morphine, synthesised RNA more slowly than that from non-tolerant rats5. This effect was not caused by the direct action of morphine and was found to be associated in the chromatin complex with a protein which is believed to regulate RNA synthesis. Since we may have identified, in part, a mechanism by which morphine-induced analgesic tolerance develops, we looked for a chronological relationship between the development of morphine-induced analgesic tolerance and the effect on brain chromatin RNA synthesis.
Role of changes in renal hemodynamics and P-450 metabolites of arachidonic acid in the reversal of one-kidney, one clip hypertension

Objective : To examine the role of changes in renal hemodynamics and P-450 metabolites of arachidonic acid in the reversal of one-kidney, one clip (1-K,1C) hypertension in rats. Design : The stimulus for the release of an antihypertensive lipid from the kidney is not known. This study examined whether cortical or papillary blood flow is altered after removal of the clip from the renal artery of 1-K,1 C hypertensive rats, and the effects of blockade of the renal metabolism of arachidonic acid by P-450 with 17-octadecynoic acid (17-ODYA) on the fall in blood pressure. Methods : Cortical and medullary blood flows were measured using laser-Doppler flowmetry. 17-ODYA (33nmol/min) was infused directly into the renal artery to examine the effect of inhibition of renal P-450 activity on reversal of 1-K,1C hypertension. The renal metabolism of arachidonic acid in control and in 1-K,1C hypertensive rats was assessed by incubating microsomes with [ 14 c]-arachidonic acid, the metabolites formed being measured using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The antihypertensive effects of these P-450 metabolites of arachidonic acid were compared with those of medullipin I after intravenous administration in conscious spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Results : Cortical and papillary blood flow increased significantly and arterial pressure fell after unclipping the renal artery in the 1-K,1C hypertensive rats. 17-ODYA prevented the fall in blood pressure after unclipping. The production of epoxy- and dihydroxy-eicosatrienoic acids was elevated in microsomes prepared from the renal cortex of the 1-K,1C hypertensive rats. However, intravenous administration of these metabolites did not mimic the effect of medullipin I to lower arterial pressure in SHR. Conclusion : Elevations in renal cortical or papillary blood flow, or both, may stimulate the release of a P-450-derived antihypertensive lipid from the kidney after unclipping of the renal artery in 1-K,1C hypertensive rats. However, it is unlikely that this substance is a P-450 metabolite of arachidonic acid.
Energy-momentum-tensor trace anomaly in spin-1/2 quantum electrodynamics

We relate the energy-momentum-tensor trace anomaly in spin-1/2 quantum electrodynamics to the functions $\ensuremath{\beta}(\ensuremath{\alpha})$, $\ensuremath{\delta}(\ensuremath{\alpha})$ defined through the Callan-Symanzik equations, and prove finiteness of ${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\nu}}$ when the anomaly is taken into account.
Chronic Coronary Artery Disease: Diagnosis and Management

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the single most common cause of death in the developed world, responsible for about 1 in every 5 deaths. The morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic importance of this disease make timely accurate diagnosis and cost-effective management of CAD of the utmost importance. This comprehensive review of the literature highlights key elements in the diagnosis, risk stratification, and management strategies of patients with chronic CAD. Relevant articles were identified by searching the PubMed database for the following terms: chronic coronary artery disease or stable angina. Novel imaging modalities, pharmacological treatment, and invasive (percutaneous and surgical) interventions have revolutionized the current treatment of patients with chronic CAD. Medical treatment remains the cornerstone of management, but revascularization continues to play an important role. In the current economic climate and with health care reform very much on the horizon, the issue of appropriate use of revascularization is important, and the indications for revascularization, in addition to the relative benefits and risks of a percutaneous vs a surgical approach, are discussed.
Śabdapramāṇa : Hindu contributions to understanding the meaning and function of scripture

The traditions of Hinduism, especially the Vedanta sampradāyas, have developed elaborate and sophisticated arguments for the words of the Vedas as a source of valid knowledge. This study seeks to explicate this rationale, with particular attention to the tradition of Advaita Vedanta. The understanding of scripture as a valid source of knowledge (pramāṇa) is neglected in the contemporary study of Hinduism, although this approach may lend a fresh perspective to the meaning and significance of sacred texts and a unique way of understanding their authority. Scripture cannot claim exemption from being subject to the same criteria that are utilized to validate other ways of knowing. Scripture as pramāṇa is a Hindu argument that enriches our understanding of sacred texts and ought to be a prominent point of view in the contemporary discussion of the nature and authority of scripture.
The effect of supine versus upright patient positioning on inferior vena cava metrics.

Abstract Background Ultrasound of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is a noninvasive and rapidly obtainable method of intravascular volume assessment; however not all patients can lie supine for this procedure. In this study we assess whether patient positioning affects IVC diameter metrics. Methods This was a prospective convenience sample of patients in an in-patient dialysis unit at an urban tertiary care center. IVC metrics taken in the supine patient, and then at 45o semi-upright position, pre and post dialysis. Measurements were taken in M-mode in longitudinal plane roughly 2 cm below the level of the diaphragm. IVC-maximum and IVC-minimum diameter measurements were used to determine the IVC collapse index (IVC Max − IVC Min)/IVC Max). Statistics such as means, frequencies and percentages, intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland Altman summary statistics were calculated. Results Forty-five patients were enrolled. Average age was 57 years, 69% were male, 73% were African American, 82% had hypertension, 42% had diabetes. There was good to excellent agreement between supine and upright IVC measurements. Both the IVC minimum and maximum measurements had similar coefficient correlation (ri) measurements (0.917 and 0.890 respectively), whereas agreement in the collapse index was lower (ri = 0.813). Bland Altman analysis demonstrated excellent agreement and small 95% limits of agreement (± 6 mm) with minimal mean bias for both the minimum and maximum measurements. Conclusion IVC metrics do not change significantly based on patient position. For those patients who are unable to lay completely supine, a semi-upright measurement of the IVC for volume status may be an accurate alternative.
Blue Nevi of the Conjunctiva

Two examples of conjunctival blue nevi are presented. The clinical and histologic features of these lesions are not in accord with descriptions of blue nevi in the ophthalmic literature. In both cases, the nevi's clinical appearance was brown instead of blue; the nevi could be moved with the conjunctiva over the sclera; and they were not present at birth. Histologically, they demonstrated subepithelial, spindle-shaped melanocytes. The location of the cells was no deeper than that of common acquired compound or subepithelial conjunctival nevi.
Optical rotatory dispersion studies of the neutral soluble proteins of embryonic bovine enamel.

The optical rotatory dispersion characteristics of the neutral-soluble proteins of embryonic bovine enamel, and of a high molecular weight aggregate isolated from the neutral-soluble proteins by Sephadex G-100 filtration have been studied. Both solutions have a high negative optical rotation of [α]546 = −140 in 0.1 M NaHCO3, which is increased about 15% by denaturation with urea. The rotatory behavior is shown to be consistent with the presence of about 8% α-helix and 6% β-configuration in 0.1 M NaHCO3 solution, and indicates that the high content of proline in the soluble enamel proteins is distributed randomly in the polypeptide chain, and not segregated in polyproline or proline-proline-proline segments.
Discontinuous solutions of semilinear differential-algebraic equations—II: P -consistency

Abstract : Part 1 of this paper presented a theory of distribution solutions of semilinear differential-algebraic equations (DAE's). In particular, it was shown that uniqueness of solutions of initial value problems breaks down completely in the class of discontinuous solutions. Here a mathematical procedure is introduced for selecting physically acceptable solutions which satisfy some new consistency condition relative to admissible perturbations of the original DAE. Several nonlinear circuit examples are given to support the theory. (AN)