cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Constructing division rings as module-theoretic direct limits

If R is an associative ring, one of several known equivalent types of data determining the structure of an arbitrary division ring D generated by a homomorphic image of R is a rule putting on all free R-modules of finite rank matroid structures (closure operators satisfying the exchange axiom) subject to certain functoriality conditions. This note gives a new description of how D may be constructed from this data. (A classical precursor of this is the construction of Q as a field with additive group a direct limit of copies of Z.) The division rings of fractions of right and left Ore rings, the universal division ring of a free ideal ring, and the concept of a specialization of division rings are then interpreted in terms of this construction.
An Assessment of Innovation in Web Marketing: Investigating American Convention and Visitors Bureaus

Innovation has become an increasingly important issue for tourism businesses. The goal of this study was to evaluate innovation in Web marketing by American convention and visitors bureaus and the contribution of website features to the overall success of their Web marketing programs. The results indicate that innovation in Web marketing has been limited in that the majority of the American CVBs focus on basic content provision and website promotional activities. The findings also indicate that there is a perceived gap between the investment in innovative website features and their contribution to the overall Web marketing success.
From Kate Stoneman to Kate Stoneman Chair, Katheryn D. Katz: Feminist Waves and the First Domestic Violence Course at a United States Law School

First-wave feminist, suffragette, and 1898 Albany Law School graduate, Katherine ― Kate Stoneman, pioneered the admission of women to the Bar of the State of New York. She led the charge against the statutory preclusion of women, overturning the statute in 1886 and winning legislative victory for non-discrimination in admission to the bar. Exactly one hundred years later, in 1986, second-wave feminist and Albany Law School graduate Katheryn D. Katz pioneered the teaching of violence against women in law schools by teaching the first documented Domestic Violence seminar course in a United States law school. In 2007, Albany Law School named Professor Katz the first Kate Stoneman Chair in Law and Democracy. The impact these two women made continues to be felt far beyond Albany Law School and New York State. This article positions the role of Albany Law School and two of its graduates in the struggle for equality of women under the law and within law schools. It also documents Professor Katz‘s historical place as a second-wave feminist and the impact her activism has had on the study of domestic violence law, family law, reproductive rights, juvenile rights, and the advancement of issues concerning women and children nationwide.
Cognitive status, muscle strength, and subsequent disability in older Mexican Americans.

Objectives: To examine the association between Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score and subsequent muscle strength (measured using handgrip strength) and to test the hypothesis that muscle strength will mediate any association between impaired cognition and incident activity of daily living (ADL) disability over a 7-year period in elderly Mexican Americans who were initially not disabled. Design: A 7-year prospective cohort study (1993–2001). Setting: Five southwestern states (Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and California). Participants: Two thousand three hundred eighty-one noninstitutionalized Mexican-American men and women aged 65 and older with no ADL disability at baseline. Measurements: In-home interviews in 1993/1994, 1995/1996, 1998/1999, and 2000/2001 assessed social and demographic factors, medical conditions (diabetes mellitus, stroke, heart attack, and arthritis), body mass index (BMI), depressive symptomatology, handgrip muscle strength, and ADLs. MMSE score was dichotomized as less than 21 for poor cognition and 21 or greater for good cognition. Main outcomes measures were mean and slope of handgrip muscle strength over the 7-year period and incident disability, defined as new onset of any ADL limitation at the 2-, 5-, or 7-year follow-up interview periods. Results: In mixed model analyses, there was a significant cross-sectional association between having poor cognition (MMSE<21) and lower handgrip strength, independent of age, sex, and time of interview (estimate=−1.41, standard error (SE)=0.18; P<.001). With the introduction of a cognition-by-time interaction term into the model, there was also a longitudinal association between poor cognition and change in handgrip strength over time (estimate=−0.25, SE=0.06; P<.001), indicating that subjects with poor cognition had a significantly greater decline in handgrip strength over 7 years than those with good cognition, independent of age, sex, and time. This longitudinal association between poor cognition and greater muscle decline remained significant (P<.001) after controlling for age, sex, education, and time-dependent variables of depression, BMI, and medical conditions. In general estimation equation models, having poor cognition was associated with greater risk of 7-year incident ADL disability (odds ratio=2.01, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.60–2.52); the magnitude of the association decreased to 1.66 (95% CI=1.31–2.10) when adjustment was made for handgrip strength. Conclusion: Older Mexican Americans with poor cognition had steeper decline in handgrip muscle strength over 7 years than those with good cognition, independent of other demographic and health factors. A possible mediating effect of muscle strength on the association between poor cognition and subsequent ADL disability was also indicated.
Studies in kernicterus. 3. The saturation of serum proteins with bilirubin during neonatal life and its relationship to brain damage at five years.

Psychometric studies were performed on a group of 5-year-old children who had been jaundiced during neonatal life. On the basis of the test results, 14 children were considered normal and 18 were classified as having brain damage. The presence or absence of brain damage was compared with clinical and laboratory determinations that had been made on the children during their period of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. No significant correlations were found between the presence or absence of brain damage and the maximum bilirubin concentration, birth weight, sex, presence or absence of hemolytic disease, or the use of exchange transfusion. A significant correlation was found between the presence or absence of brain damage and the saturation of the serum proteins with bilirubin during infancy.
A Pragmatic Understanding of Knowing That and Knowing How: The Pivotal Role of Conceptual Structures

What is the difference between knowing that a cake is baked and knowing how to bake a cake? In each, the core concepts are the same, “cake” and “baking,” yet there seems to be a significant difference. The classical distinction between “knowing that” and “knowing how” points to the pivotal role of conceptual structures in both reasoning about and using knowledge. Peirce's recognition of this pivotal role is most clearly seen in the pragmatic maxim that links theoretical and practical maxims. By extending Peirce's pragmatism with the notion of a general argument pattern, the relation between conceptual structures and these ways of knowing can be understood in terms of the “filling instructions” for concepts. Since a robust account of conceptual structures must be able to handle both the context of “knowing that” and “knowing how,” it would seem reasonable to think that there will be multiple representations for the “filling instructions.” This in turn suggests that a methodological principle of tolerance between those approaches that stress the theoretical understanding of concepts appropriate to “knowing that” and those that stress the proceduralist understanding of concepts appropriate to “knowing how” is desirable.
Unipolar Voltage Abnormality is Associated with Greater Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Unipolar Voltage Mapping in ICM Introduction Following myocardial infarction (MI), left ventricular function is determined by cardiac remodeling occurring in both infarcted and noninfarcted myocardium (NIM). Unipolar voltage mapping may detect remodeling changes in NIM that are associated with the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). We aimed to identify (1) unipolar voltage characteristics in patients with chronic MI, and (2) association of voltage abnormalities with degree of left ventricular dysfunction (LVD). Methods and Results Two groups of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) who underwent LV endocardial mapping during catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT) between January 2010 and December 2012 were studied. The first group (19 males) had mild to moderate LVD (M-LVD, LVEF >35%) and was matched for age, sex, infarction size, and infarction location with 10 males who had severe LVD (S-LVD, LVEF <35%). Both bipolar and unipolar endocardial abnormal voltage areas were measured and compared between groups. Abnormal bipolar area was comparable in both groups (30 ± 8% in the S-LVD group vs 28 ± 8% in the M-LVD group; P = 0.5). Total abnormal unipolar voltage area was significantly larger in the S-LVD group (57 ± 14% vs 43 ± 13%; P = 0.02). The abnormal unipolar voltage area within the normal bipolar voltage area was greater in the S-LVD group (26 ± 11% vs 15 ± 16%; P = 0.03). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, an 18.0% cut-off value for abnormal unipolar area within NIM identified severe LVD, with 90% sensitivity and 79% specificity (area under the curve 0.821). Conclusions Patients with ICM and severe LVD have larger areas of unipolar voltage abnormality in the noninfarcted tissue than patients with M-LVD.
Serogrouping of halophilic Bdellovibrios from Chesapeake Bay and environs by immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis

Little has been reported on the serological relationship of halophilic bdellovibrios (Bd). Immunodiffusion analysis performed with rabbit or mouse Bd antisera developed against eight halophilic Bd isolates and one terrestrial Bd isolate, when reacted with soluble antigen preparations of 45 isolates of halophilic Bd, allowed separation into seven serogroups, which were distinct from the terrestrial isolate. Soluble antigen preparations of prey bacteria, Vibrio parahaemolyticus P-5 (P-5) and Escherichia coli ML 35 (ML 35), exhibited no reactivity with the antisera by immunodiffusion. Immunoelectrophoresis revealed the presence of three distinct antigens in homologous reactions and one shared antigen in heterologous Bd reactions. Shared antigens were noted between halophilic and terrestrial Bd, in addition to between halophilic Bd strains, indicating the possible existence of an antigen(s) which may be shared among all Bd. Again, no shared antigen was noted when P-5 or ML 35 was allowed by immunoelectrophoresis to react with the antisera. Prey susceptibility testing of the seven distinct groups of halophilic Bd, using 20 test prey, produced essentially identical spectra for each group, indicating that this was not a useful technique in delineating the Bd. While immunoelectrophoresis was able to demonstrate an antigen common to all Bd tested, immunodiffusion was able to delineate strains on the basis of a “serogroup specific” antigen. This suggests that immunological tools may serve as important means to study the taxonomy of halophilic Bd, as well as in the formation of a clearer taxonomic picture of the genus Bdellovibrio.
Combing semantic networks with multi-attribute utility models: An evaluative database indexing method

Summary form only given. The author presents the multiattribute utility (MAU) semantic network model, a method for representing evaluative knowledge by combining techniques from two separate but complementary disciplines. A semantic network knowledge representation is merged with a decision-theoretic MAU model to provide an indexing technique for databases that store information in the form of judgments or evaluations. Such a merger provides inferencing capabilities that allow the database to estimate an evaluation even if no direct evidence is available for user queries. The model includes concept types, concepts, relationship links, judgment records, and inference strategies. The MAU SemNet model has been applied to an international-marketing database that contains judgments pertaining to potential countries and markets for export or foreign investment ventures. >
A Molecular Worm in Scutum

Over the past four years, Pat Thaddeus and I have been using the CfA 1.2 m telescope to carry out a new CO survey of the first Galactic quadrant with a sensitivity per solid angle 3-10 times higher than previous CO surveys of the plane, and 16 times higher than the only previous extensive wide-latitude survey (Dame et al. 1987). Since a preliminary purpose of this survey is the study of molecular gas out of the plane in the inner Galaxy, the observations have so far been confined mainly to several vertical strips across the plane covering a few degrees in Galactic longitude and 6°‐8° in Galactic latitude; details of this on-going survey are given in Dame & Thaddeus (1995).
Effective Connectivity Modeling for fMRI: Six Issues and Possible Solutions Using Linear Dynamic Systems.

Analysis of directionally specific or causal interactions between regions in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data has proliferated. Here we identify six issues with existing effective connectivity methods that need addressed. The issues are discussed within the framework of Linear Dynamic Systems for fMRI (LDSf). The first concerns the use of deterministic models to identify inter-regional effective connectivity. We show that deterministic dynamics are incapable of identifying the trial-to-trial variability typically investigated as the marker of connectivity while stochastic models can capture this variability. The second concerns the simplistic (constant) connectivity modeled by most methods. Connectivity parameters of the LDSf model can vary at the same timescale as the input data. Further, extending LDSf to mixtures of multiple models provides more robust connectivity variation. The third concerns the correct identification of the network itself including the number and anatomical origin of the network nodes. Augmentation of the LDSf state space can identify additional nodes of a network. The fourth concerns the locus of the signal used as a “node” in a network. A novel extension LDSf incorporating sparse canonical correlations can select most relevant voxels from an anatomically defined region based on connectivity. The fifth concerns connection interpretation. Individual parameter differences have received most attention. We present alternative network descriptors of connectivity changes which consider the whole network. The sixth concerns the temporal resolution of fMRI data relative to the timescale of the inter-regional interactions in the brain. LDSf includes an “instantaneous” connection term to capture connectivity occurring at timescales faster than the data resolution. The LDS framework can also be extended to statistically combine fMRI and EEG data. The LDSf framework is a promising foundation for effective connectivity analysis.
Gonioscopy: uses old and new. The inheritance of occludable angles.

The goniolens has become increasingly important in the practice of ophthalmology. For example, the treatment of angle closure and neovascular glaucoma is most effective in the earliest stages of the diseases, even prior to the onset of symptoms. Routine gonioscopy is essential if patients are to be provided optimum care. The critical nature of pressure gonioscopy is reviewed. The use of the goniolens to examine the corneal endothelium is described and recommended. Characterization of the configuration of the angle recess demands description of at least three aspects: (1) the angular approach to the recess, (2) the peripheral curvature of the iris, and (3) the point of insertion of the iris onto the ciliary body or endothelial surface. The nature of these three considerations is reviewed, as is their frequency in a normal population, in a group of ten people with definite 1° angle-closure glaucoma, and in 95 relatives of the subjects with angle-closure glaucoma. Marked anterior convexity of the peripheral iris appears to be highly correlated with the development of 1° angle-closure. The three aspects of the angle configuration appear to be independently inherited. Gonioscopy of relatives of cases with 1° angle-closure glaucoma is highly recommended.
Teratogen update: carcinogenesis and teratogenesis associated with exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero

Exposure of the human fetus to physician-prescribed diethylstilbestrol and other synthetic estrogens (collectively referred to as "DES") led to an important iatrogenic epidemic. In the United States alone, at least four million fetuses and their mothers had a substantial exposure to these estrogens now known to be mild carcinogens and potent teratogens. Mothers exposed to DES may have a somewhat higher risk of breast cancer than women who were not exposed. The sequelae of in utero exposure of daughters include clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina and cervix, various gross anomalies of the genital tract that are associated with adverse outcomes of pregnancy, vaginal adenosis and other vaginal epithelial changes, and other possible health effects that have not yet been fully evaluated. Among sons exposed in utero to DES, no increase in the incidence of any cancer has been reported, but several anomalies of the genital tract have been described, and it is possible that some social behaviors are modified. Although the grandchildren of the DES-exposed daughters and sons have not been shown to have any abnormalities, some of them have been the products of short gestations. Future research, being funded by the National Cancer Institute, will permit monitoring of the DES-exposed population to determine whether any other abnormalities will become apparent in them.
Physical modeling of semiconductor heterodimensional devices for photodetector applications

Efforts to exploit reduced dimensionality systems in semiconductor devices are presently driven by the continuing need to improve speed performance, transport efficiency, device density, and power management. In this work, we investigate the performance of novel GaAs/AlGaAs and InGaAs/InAlAs heterostructures for high-speed photodetector devices. First, a modulation-doped AlGaAs/GaAs device, suitable for monolithic integration with planar HEMT and FET devices, produces a built-in electric field that aids in the high-speed collection of photogenerated carriers. Surface Schottky electrodes on this structure form a planar interdigitated metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) device for use at 850-nm wavelength. A second structure, an InGaAs/InAlAs quantum-well MSM photodetector for use at 1550-nm wavelength, utilizes recessed electrodes to contact directly the two-dimensional (2D) transport channel. Unfortunately, rather low Schottky barrier heights on undoped InGaAs lead to excessive dark currents when metal contacts are deposited directly on this material. To remedy this situation, we propose to form barrier-enhancement regions between the optically active 2D-quantum well and the lateral 3D-metal contacts by means of ion-implantation-induced quantum-well intermixing. Results indicate a reduction in dark current of nearly three orders of magnitude. Additionally, the high-speed performance appears not to be adversely affected under normal operating conditions by the potentially deleterious effects of carrier emission and accumulation at these heterojunction interfaces. The Fourier transform of a simulated transient current response to a light impulse indicates an electrical 3-dB bandwidth in excess of 50 GHz in a device with a recessed electrode gap of 1 μm.
Alpha ketoglutarate, ornithine and growth hormone displace glutamine dependent ammoniagenesis and enhance renal base generation and function.

Renal base generation requires accelerated interorgan glutamine fluxes during chronic acidosis (1). Decreased ureagenesis and muscle erosion are reflections of nitrogen mobilized and addressed as glutamine for renal extraction and ammoniagenesis. Since glutamine is shared with other homeostatic systems, renal base demands may jeopardize patient recovery. Therefore attempts to substitute other potential base generating fuels have been undertaken. Alpha ketoglutarate decreases renal glutamine uptake and ammoniagenesis (2, 3). Omithine may also be base generating, as well as ammoniagenic (4) especially during acute acidosis when proton gradients are at their zenith. More interesting, both alpha ketoglutarate and omithine reduce protein turnover in catabolic (acidotic) conditions (5.6). However, despite the documented alpha ketoglutarate sparing glutamine action, the positive effect of alpha ketoglutarate on base generation remains to be seen. Theoretically. 1 mole of = KG’ should, upon oxidation or conversion to glucose, yield 2 moles of HCO-, regardless as to whether glutamine, omithine or alpha ketoglutarate was the nutrient delivered. It was to test this hypothesis as well as the cellular mechanisms underlying these effects that the following studies were performed. In addition, since growth hormone spares glutamine nitrogen (7). its effect on base generation was also included. Experiments were performed on kidneys isolated from chronically acidotic rats (fed 110 mM HCl in a liquid elemental diet for 4 days; acid intake 2896 f 91 prnol/day/lOO g BW, arterial plasma HCO-, 15.6 + 1.6 mM, and NH,’ excretion 2256 f 361 pmol/day/ 100 g BW). The isolated kidney (7) was perfused with a recycling artificial plasma solution containing albumin (5 g%), glucose (5 mM) and HCO-, (19 mM). Changes in perfusate HCO-, content were compared to accurately measured urinary loss: base production was obtained from the incremental rise in perfusate bicarbonate after subtracting excreted HCO-,. Ammonia dependent HCO-, production was assessed from the rate of ammonium production (urine plus perfusate accumulation). The kidneys were perfused for 45 min (equilibration) and then. infusions of gln (500 nmol/min).
Norden’s Eclipse: The Impact of the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy on the Nordic Group in the United Nations

The United Nations has long been a common priority in the foreign policies of the Nordic countries and a forum in which Nordic collaboration has been extensive. This article demonstrates how expand...
Practical aspects of internal-sample liquid-scintillation counting.

Abstract The appearance of commercially available equipment has made it practicable for chemists and biochemists to consider the use of liquid-scintillation counting for the assay of radioactive samples. The method offers excellent sensitivity for weak beta-emitting isotopes, including tritium. This is because of its 4π geometry for samples as large as several grams. The disadvantages of the technique are discussed in detail. The equipment is several times as expensive as most other counting apparatus. It is more complex to understand and to maintain. The method involves certain prerequisites of the sample material. These include adequate solubility in the rather limited group of alkyl benzene and polyther solvents that suffice as liquid-scintillation solvents, absence of color, and freedom from quenching action upon the scintillation phenomenon. Toluene remains the solvent of choice, but its usefulness has been broadened through the use of 2-ethylhexanoic acid and a quarternary ammonium base which form toluene-soluble salts with many cations and anions. The applicability of liquid-scintillation counting to any counting problems should be evaluated specifically. In general, however, some of the applications in which it appears to be the method of choice include nearly all tritium counting, assaying C14 and S35 samples of low specific activity, any type of counting where speed and ease of sample preparation are necessary, and the counting of volatile compounds.
The Investment Model Scale: Measuring commitment level, satisfaction level, quality of alternatives, and investment size

Three studies evaluated the reliability and validity of the Investment Model Scale, an instrument designed to measure four constructs, including commitment level and three bases of dependence-satisfaction level, quality of alternatives, and investment size. In all three studies, reliability analyses revealed good internal consistency among items designed to measure each construct. Also, principal components analyses performed on scale items revealed evidence of four factors, with items designed to measure each construct loading on independent factors. Studies 2 and 3 examined associations of model variables with instruments measuring diverse qualities of relationships and assorted personal dispositions. As anticipated, Investment Model variables were moderately associated with other measures reflecting superior couple functioning (e.g., dyadic adjustment, trust level, inclusion of other in the self), and were essentially unrelated to measures assessing personal dispositions (e.g., need for cognition, self-esteem). In addition, Study 3 demonstrated that earlier measures of Investment Model variables predicted later levels of dyadic adjustment and later relationship status (persisted vs ended). It is hoped that the existence of a reliable and valid Investment Model Scale will promote further research regarding commitment and interdependence in ongoing close relationships.
Measurement of glycolysis reactants by high-throughput solid phase extraction with tandem mass spectrometry: Characterization of pyrophosphate-dependent phosphofructokinase as a case study.

Abstract Glycolysis is a 10-step metabolic pathway involved in producing cellular energy. Many tumors exhibit accelerated glycolytic rates, and enzymes that participate in this pathway are focal points of cancer research. Here, a novel method for the measurement of glycolysis reactants from in vitro samples is presented. Fast and direct measurement is achieved by an automated system that couples on-line solid phase extraction (SPE) with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The single analytical method enables multiple reactants to be measured concurrently, sustains a cycle time of 8 s, and permits the measurement of up to 10,000 samples per day. Concentration–response curves were conducted using standards for 10 metabolic intermediates, and the results demonstrate that the detection strategy has excellent sensitivity (average limit of detection = 5.4 nM), dynamic range (nanomolar to micromolar), and linear response (average R 2 = 0.998). To test the analysis method on reactions, pyrophosphate-dependent phosphofructokinase (PPi–PFK) was used as a model system. Data that corroborate the activation and inhibition of PPi–PFK are presented, and the ways in which SPE–MS/MS simplifies experimental design and interpretation are highlighted. In summary, the method for measuring metabolic intermediates described here demonstrates unprecedented speed, performance, and versatility.
Quantitative assessment of the microstructure of rat behavior: II. Distinctive effects of dopamine releasers and uptake inhibitors

The effects of four indirect dopamine agonists, d-amphetamine (0.25-4.0 mg/kg), cocaine (2.5-40.0 mg/kg), GBR 12909 (10.0-30.0 mg/kg), and nomifensine (5.0-20.0 mg/kg), on the behavioral organization of movements in an unconditioned motor paradigm were investigated in rats. The extended scaling hypothesis using the fluctuation spectrum of local spatial scaling exponents was used to quantify the geometrical characteristics of movements. The results reveal a qualitatively similar disruption of behavioral organization by lower doses of these drugs. Specifically, rats treated with d-amphetamine (< 2.0 mg/kg), cocaine (< 20.0 mg/kg), GBR 12909 (< 20.0 mg/kg), or nomifensine (< 10.0 mg/kg) exhibited a reduced range in the fluctuation spectrum, reflecting a predominance of meandering movements with local spatial scaling exponents between 1.3 and 1.7. This reduction was accompanied dynamically by a reduced predictability of movement sequences as measured by the dynamical entropy, h. By contrast, higher doses of these drugs produced distinctly different changes in behavioral organization. In particular, 4.0 mg/kg d-amphetamine and 40.0 mg/kg cocaine increased the fluctuation range, reflecting relative increases in both straight and circumscribed movements that are interpreted as a combination of spatially extended and local perseveration. In contrast, high doses of 30.0 mg/kg GBR 12909 and 20.0 mg/kg nomifensine induced only local perseveration. High doses of d-amphetamine, cocaine, GBR 12909 and nomifensine reduced the dynamical entropy, h, indicating an increased predictability of the movement sequences. These results suggest that the generic behavioral change induced by low doses of dopamine agonists is characterized by a reduced variety of path patterns coupled with an increased variability in sequential movement sequences. The differential effects of higher doses of these drugs may be due to their influences on other neurotransmitter systems or differential affinities for different dopamine subsystems.
The Degree and Timing of Orthostatic Blood Pressure Changes in Relation to Falls in Nursing Home Residents

Background Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is traditionally defined as a decline in systolic or diastolic blood pressure of >20 or >10 mm Hg, respectively, after 1 or 3 minutes of upright posture. OH is common in the elderly, but has not been consistently demonstrated to be an independent risk factor for falls in nursing home residents. Previous studies have used the standard definition of OH in assessing fall risk. No study has sought to determine if the timing of postural changes in blood pressure adds prognostic value; if changes in systolic, diastolic, or mean blood pressure are equivalent in predicting subsequent falls; and what degree of decline in blood pressure has the best predictive value. Objective We sought to define the timing and degree of orthostatic changes in blood pressure in a cohort of elderly nursing home residents during active standing and to explore the relationship to subsequent falls to test the hypothesis that orthostatic changes in blood pressure with noninvasive beat-to-beat technology would predict falls in nursing home residents better than the standard definition of OH. Methods One hundred eleven elderly (88 ± 7 years) residents of a long-term care facility had measurement of orthostatic blood pressure changes during active standing for up to 3 minutes with a real-time continuous, noninvasive beat-to-beat blood pressure device. Falls were determined prospectively over a median follow-up period of 270 days (range, 8–657 days). The degree and timing of declines in systolic, diastolic, or mean blood pressure and their association with subsequent falls was determined using a time-to-event analysis. Results Forty-six subjects (41%) fell. The standard definition of OH was not predictive of subsequent falls (hazard ratio 1.03 at 1 minute and 1.32 at 3 minutes, P = not significant). Other measures of orthostatic blood pressure changes were also not associated with a significant increase in risk for subsequent falls, including declines in blood pressure within the first minute of standing. Conclusion The standard definition of OH was not an independent predictor of falls in frail nursing home residents. A one-time measure for the presence of postural hypotension using beat-to-beat tonometry was not predictive of fall risk. The timing and degree of orthostatic changes in blood pressure does not significantly enhance risk prediction for falls.
Different mechanisms of mitochondrial proton leak in ischaemia/reperfusion injury and preconditioning: implications for pathology and cardioprotection

The mechanisms of mitochondrial proton (H+) leak under various pathophysiological conditions are poorly understood. In the present study it was hypothesized that different mechanisms underlie H+ leak in cardiac IR (ischaemia/reperfusion) injury and IPC (ischaemic preconditioning). Potential H+ leak mechanisms examined were UCPs (uncoupling proteins), allosteric activation of the ANT (adenine nucleotide translocase) by AMP, or the PT (permeability transition) pore. Mitochondria isolated from perfused rat hearts that were subjected to IPC exhibited a greater H+ leak than did controls (202±27%, P 50%, by carboxyattractyloside. In addition, it was inhibited by cardioprotective treatment strategies including pre-IR perfusion with the PT pore inhibitors cyclosporin A or sanglifehrin A, the adenylate kinase inhibitor, AP5A (diadenosine pentaphosphate), or IPC. Together these data suggest that the small increase in H+ leak in IPC is mediated by UCPs, while the large increase in H+ leak in IR is mediated by the ANT. Furthermore, under all conditions studied, in situ myocardial O2 efficiency was correlated with isolated mitochondrial H+ leak (r2=0.71). In conclusion, these data suggest that the modulation of H+ leak may have important implications for the outcome of IR injury.
Materials in microelectronics

Abstract The technologies in computer electronics are very diverse and span the entire spectrum of engineering and scientific fields. Materials (metals, ceramics, and polymers) are at the heart of all leading-edge computers, for both semiconductors and packages. The material challenges for semiconductor devices include the materials for transistor formation as well as on-chip interconnection by extremely fine-line lithography. The role of packages, beyond being simply passive containers in the past, is viewed as setting limits to the ultimate performance of computers. In this role, the packages of the 1990s need to interconnect, power, cool, and protect devices in such a way that results in leading-edge performance and reliability. The materials to perform these functions include low-dielectric-constant ceramics, polymers, and high-conductivity metals.
Evaluation of paclitaxel in previously treated leiomyosarcoma of the uterus: a gynecologic oncology group study

Abstract Objective The purpose of this phase II trial was to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous paclitaxel in patients with recurrent or advanced leiomyosarcoma of the uterus. Methods To be eligible, patients with recurrent or persistent leiomyosarcoma of the uterus were to have measurable disease not previously treated with paclitaxel and adequate hematologic (WBC ≥3000/μl, platelet count ≥100,000/μl), renal (serum creatinine ≤2.0 mg%), and hepatic (bilirubin ≤ 1.5 × institutional normal) functions. Paclitaxel was given at a dose of 175 mg/m 2 (135 mg/m 2 for patients with prior radiotherapy) intravenously over 3 h every 3 weeks. Results Fifty-three patients were entered on this study; 48 were evaluable for toxicity and response. Fifteen had prior irradiation and 39 had prior chemotherapy. A median of 2 (range: 1–12) courses was given. Grade 4 neutropenia occurred in 3 (6.3%) patients. No grade 4 thrombocytopenia was reported and no deaths were attributable to therapy. Four (8.4%) patients had a complete or partial response and 22.9% had stable disease. Conclusions Although toxicity was minimal, this regimen demonstrated modest activity in patients with previously treated advanced or recurrent leiomyosarcoma of the uterus.
Cactus Alkaloids XXI: β-Phenethylamines from Dolichothele sphaerica

Studies concerning the isolation and biosynthesis of an imidazole alkaloid, dolichotheline (N-isovalerylhistamine), in the cactus Dolichothele sphaerica (Dietr.) Br. and R. were previously reported. In the current investigation, chromatographic analysis (TLC) detected additional alkaloids; however, these compounds were β-phenethylamines rather than imidazoles. Preparative TLC aided in the crystallization of five of these compounds: N-methyl- phenethylamine hydrochloride, β-methyltyramine hydrochloride, synephrine hydrochloride, β-O-methylsynephrine hydrochloride, and β-O-ethyIsynephrine hydrochloride. The last compound was shown to be an extraction artifact of synephrine. This is the first report of the isolation of N-methylphenethylamine from the Cacta. ceae, but the other natural compounds were all previously isolated from other cactus species.
Stability, Dynamics, and Selectivity in the Assembly of Hydrogen-Bonded Hexameric Capsules

Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) was employed to monitor the dynamics of hydrogen-bonded hexameric assemblies formed from resorcin[4]arenes and pyrogallol[4]arenes. Studies were designed to provide further insights into the degree of assembly and stability of these self-assembled capsules at the micro- to nanomolar concentration ranges that are not accessible by NMR studies. The results of this investigation reveal factors that influence the self-assembly of these macrocycles into hexameric capsules. Pyrogallolarenes are very sensitive to the concentration of mixing, with an increase in the equilibration half-life from 36 min at 250 nM to 156 min at 10 microM. The resorcinarenes showed little difference in exchange rates over the same concentration range. The temperature of mixing of the macrocycles was found to be important for both systems with a 12-fold increase in exchange rates over a 20 degree range for the pyrogallolarenes and a 2-fold rate increase for the resorcinarenes over the same temperature range. The stability of the capsules to polar additives such as methanol was probed, with the pyrogallolarenes requiring a higher percentage (1.6% v/v in dichloromethane) of methanol to disassemble the capsules than the resorcinarenes (1.0% v/v in dichloromethane). Pyrogallolarenes assemble in both anhydrous and wet solvents whereas water-saturated solvents are necessary to facilitate the formation of resorcinarene capsules. In addition to these studies, evidence of strict self-sorting in the formation of distinct pyrogallolarene and resorcinarene hexamers was obtained.
Kinetic Studies on Growth of Excised Root Tips of Lycopersicum esculentum.

When isonicotinic acid hydrazide (INH) was first used for therapy of tuberculosis many patients developed peripheral neuritis resembling that of pyridoxine deficiency. Such patients exhibited increased urinary excretion of pyridoxine; administration of pyridoxine prevented the neuritis (1). In vitro studies have confirmed that INH inhibits pyridoxinedependent bacterial decarboxylases and transaminases (2, 21, 22). This inhibition could also be released more effectively with pyridoxal than with pyridoxine (2, 21). The structures of pyridoxal and its analog are illustrated in figure 1.
Novel Anticoagulants for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review of Cost-Effectiveness Models

Objective To conduct a systematic review of economic models of newer anticoagulants for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (SPAF). Patients and Methods We searched Medline, Embase, NHSEED and HTA databases and the Tuft’s Registry from January 1, 2008 through October 10, 2012 to identify economic (Markov or discrete event simulation) models of newer agents for SPAF. Results Eighteen models were identified. Each was based on a lone randomized trial/new agent, and these trials were clinically and methodologically heterogeneous. Dabigatran 150 mg, 110 mg and sequentially-dosed were assessed in 9, 8, and 9 models, rivaroxaban in 4 and apixaban in 4. Warfarin was a first-line comparator in 94% of models. Models were conducted from United States (44%), European (39%) and Canadian (17%) perspectives. Models typically assumed patients between 65–73 years old at moderate-risk of stroke initiated anticoagulation for/near a lifetime. All models reported cost/quality-adjusted life-year, 22% reported using a societal perspective, but none included indirect costs. Four models reported an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for a newer anticoagulant (dabigatran 110 mg (n = 4)/150 mg (n = 2); rivaroxaban (n = 1)) vs. warfarin above commonly reported willingness-to-pay thresholds. ICERs vs. warfarin ranged from $3,547–$86,000 for dabigatran 150 mg, $20,713–$150,000 for dabigatran 110 mg, $4,084–$21,466 for sequentially-dosed dabigatran and $23,065–$57,470 for rivaroxaban. Apixaban was found economically-dominant to aspirin, and dominant or cost-effective ($11,400–$25,059) vs. warfarin. Indirect comparisons from 3 models suggested conflicting comparative cost-effectiveness results. Conclusions Cost-effectiveness models frequently found newer anticoagulants cost-effective, but the lack of head-to-head trials and the heterogeneous characteristics of underlying trials and modeling methods make it difficult to determine the most cost-effective agent.
Cytologic indicators of condylomatous lesions of the uterine cervix with histologic correlation: An outpatient laboratory's experience

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is widely implicated as a primary etiologic factor in cervical carcinoma. Cytology plays an important role as the initial screening tool in the early detection of cervical lesions with koilocytotic features. The purpose of this study was to describe the various cytologic indicators of condylomatous lesions of the uterine cervix with histologic correlation. Cervical smears and biopsy specimens from 278 women seen in an outpatient clinical setting between January 1, 1985; and January 1, 1987, were reviewed. The histologic categories consisted of (1) flat condylomas with minimal cellular atypia; and (2) cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), I, II, or III with atypical koilocytosis. Cytologically in 57 cases, flat condylomas were composed predominantly of koilocytes containing large perinuclear halos and dyskeratotic cells. In the 221 cases of CIN with atypical koilocytosis, the cervical smears were composed predominantly of atypical koilocytes with large hyperchromatic nuclei and small perinuclear halos; a variable number of koilocytes with large perinuclear halos; pleomorphic dyskeratotic cells; and abnormal multinucleated cells. Mild, moderate, or severely dysplastic/carcinoma-in-situ cells (CIS) were also present. An understanding of the cytologic features associated with condylomatous lesions of the cervix will enable the cytopathologist to alert the clinician of the need to perform colposcopy with the appropriate follow-up treatment.
The transverse upper gracilis flap for breast reconstruction following liposuction of the thigh.

Liposuction is a common aesthetic procedure and it has been used in defatting flaps and other procedures than aesthetic. Reconstruction with flaps needs good blood supply. If liposuction has previously been done, there can be a question of the vascularity of a flap. The authors present a patient who had prior liposuction of the abdomen and medial thighs, and also bilateral mastectomies were reconstructed with implants and the latissimus dorsi on the left. Because the abdomen was not suitable for further reconstruction, bilateral transverse gracilis myocutaneous flaps were utilized and there were no postoperative complications. Although the history of previous liposuction contouring procedures may present a potential increased risk in perforator flap harvest, it has been demonstrated that it is not an absolute contraindication.
Interplay between the Fulde-Ferrell-like phase and Larkin-Ovchinnikov phase in the superconducting ring pierced by an Aharonov-Bohm flux

Theoretical Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545, U.S.A.(Dated: August 12, 2009)We study the phase diagram of a superconducting ring threaded by an Aharonov-Bohm ﬂuxand an in-plane magnetic Zeeman ﬁeld. The simultaneous presence of both the external ﬂux andthe in-plane magnetic ﬁeld leads to the competition between the Fulde-Ferrell (FF) phase andthe Larkin-Ovchinnikov (LO) phase. Using the Bogoliubov-de Gennes equation, we investigate thespacial proﬁle of the order parameter. Both the FF phase and the LO phase are found to exist stablyin this system. The phase boundary is determined by comparing the free energy. The distortion ofthe phase diagrams due to the mesoscopic eﬀect is also studied.
G. I. Taylor revisited: the cone of unextended directions in double slip

Recently developed general equations for the cone of unextended directions in arbitrary double slip are applied to the interpretation of finite distortion measurements from the classic series of papers (1923–27) by G. I. Taylor on cubic metal crystals. Measurements of comparable completeness are not readily found elsewhere in the literature. From the equations and the experimental data (including lattice positions from X-ray diffraction analysis), the respective amounts of finite double slip are calculated for several cases from comparisons of the theoretical and experimentally determined cones in stereographic projection. Misconceptions in the literature about the deformations of Taylor’s crystals after the loading axis reached a symmetry line are specifically addressed.
Non-accelerator quark matter physics

Abstract The assertion that quark matter, not 56 Fe, is the ground state of matter has surprisingly no striking experimentally verifiable consequences. We speculate on the formation and detection of such matter in cosmic ray interactions, in the early universe, in neutron stars and in cosmic accelerators such as Cygnus X-3.
A correction for including competitive asymmetry in measures of local interference in plant populations

In 1989, Thomas and Weiner described a method to measure the degree of competitive symmetry in plant populations in which the performance of a focal plant is explained as a function of the size and number of its neighbors. However, if plant size is correlated with plant performance, then Thomas and Weiner's method may give misleading results. Statistically controlling for the effect of plant size on performance corrects the problem and highlights the observation that size is an important determinant of plant growth rate.
A bridge to nowhere: methane emissions and the greenhouse gas footprint of natural gas

In April 2011, we published the first peer-reviewed analysis of the greenhouse gas footprint (GHG) of shale gas, concluding that the climate impact of shale gas may be worse than that of other fossil fuels such as coal and oil because of methane emissions. We noted the poor quality of publicly available data to support our analysis and called for further research. Our paper spurred a large increase in research and analysis, including several new studies that have better measured methane emissions from natural gas systems. Here, I review this new research in the context of our 2011 paper and the fifth assessment from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released in 2013. The best data available now indicate that our estimates of methane emission from both shale gas and conventional natural gas were relatively robust. Using these new, best available data and a 20-year time period for comparing the warming potential of methane to carbon dioxide, the conclusion stands that both shale gas and conventional natural gas have a larger GHG than do coal or oil, for any possible use of natural gas and particularly for the primary uses of residential and commercial heating. The 20-year time period is appropriate because of the urgent need to reduce methane emissions over the coming 15–35 years.