cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal Iterative Sketching with the Subsampled Randomized Hadamard Transform

Random projections or sketching are widely used in many algorithmic and learning contexts. Here we study the performance of iterative Hessian sketch for least-squares problems. By leveraging and extending recent results from random matrix theory on the limiting spectrum of matrices randomly projected with the subsampled randomized Hadamard transform, and truncated Haar matrices, we can study and compare the resulting algorithms to a level of precision that has not been possible before. Our technical contributions include a novel formula for the second moment of the inverse of projected matrices. We also find simple closed-form expressions for asymptotically optimal step-sizes and convergence rates. These show that the convergence rate for Haar and randomized Hadamard matrices are identical, and asymptotically improve upon Gaussian random projections. These techniques may be applied to other algorithms that employ randomized dimension reduction.
Linear viscoelastic relaxation in the α and α+ regions of linear polymers, crosslinked polymers and small molecules

Abstract The dynamic linear viscoelastic behavior in the region above Tg was studied for a series of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) based epoxy resins cured with 4,4′-methylenedianiline (MDA) and 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS) as well as a linear DGEBA-based polymer – phenoxy. Master curves were constructed from the frequency dependent storage and loss isotherms. The relaxation spectra were determined for the MDA and DDS cured systems and also, using the reported dielectric relaxation data (Casalini et al. Phys. Rev. B, 1997), for the DGEBA monomer. For the tighter DGEBA networks, a single broad relaxation peak was observed vs looser DGEBA networks and a phenoxy thermoplastic where two relaxation processes were observed: the main α-process and an α+-process that occurs at longer relaxation times and higher temperatures. The spectrum for DGEBA monomer exhibited only an α-process with a very abrupt end. The temperature dependence of logaT follows one of the two distinct branches when adjusted for Tg: the tight DGEBA networks all exhibit a steep response; in contrast, the DGEBA monomer, phenoxy and looser DGEBA networks exhibit a less steep response. Relaxation spectrum for the loosely crosslinked Epon1009-MDA system consists of α and α+ components; intriguingly, logaT for the α-process follows the steep branch vs the α+-process following the less steep branch.
Drugs Affecting the Autonomic Nervous System

Abstract This book is intended as a guide to help the clinician determine where a visual problem is a drug-induced ocular side effect. We continually review spontaneous case reports from the National Registry of Drug-Induced Ocular Side Effects, the World Health Organization, the US Food and Drug Administration, and the world literature. We have attempted to classify a suspected adverse event with our impression to causality (i.e. certain, probable, unlikely, conditional/unclassified). This chapter discusses drugs affecting the autonomic nervous system including stimulants.
Urologic Surgery in the Elderly

Most urologists practicing general urology traditionally have taken care of a large number of older adults over the age of 65. As the overall population of the United States age at a rapid pace, the urologists will be entrusted with the care of an increasing number of older adults with comorbidities. Some of the most common urological problems in the elderly which may require surgical intervention include urological cancers such as prostate, bladder and kidney cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with lower urinary tract symptoms, urinary incontinence, and pelvic floor dysfunction in female. The risks associated with urological surgery in the elderly is not necessarily related with chronological age but rather greatly influenced by the functional capacity and associated comorbidities of the individual patient. The urologist must be familiar with and carefully consider non-surgical or minimally invasive surgical technique when appropriate, perform a thorough pre-operative assessment, and be cognizant of post-operative complications and their management unique to elderly patients. In this chapter we review the surgical management of some of the most common urological problems in the elderly. We have briefly touched on the clinical evaluation of geriatric patients, as this has been discussed in depth in another chapter. Considering the brevity of the space we have limited our discussion of non-surgical treatment options.
Shoulder Pain and Stiffness with Abnormal Imaging Findings.

A 51-year-old patient presented with several years of diffuse shoulder pain and abnormal imaging findings.
On Lévy’s Brownian motion and white noise space on the circle

Abstract In this article, we show that the Brownian motion on the circle constructed by Levy (1959) is a regular Euclidean Brownian motion on the half-circle with its own mirror image on the other half-circle, and is degenerated in the sense of Minlos (1959). This raises the question of what the white noise is on the circle. We then formally define the white noise space and its associated Brownian bridge on the circle.
Seq-Scope: Submicrometer-resolution spatial transcriptomics for single cell and subcellular studies

Abstract Spatial barcoding technologies have the potential to reveal histological details of transcriptomic profiles; however, they are currently limited by their low resolution. Here we report Seq-Scope, a spatial barcoding technology with a resolution almost comparable to an optical microscope. Seq-Scope is based on a solid-phase amplification of randomly barcoded single-molecule oligonucleotides using an Illumina sequencing-by-synthesis platform. The resulting clusters annotated with spatial coordinates are processed to expose RNA-capture moiety. These RNA-capturing barcoded clusters define the pixels of Seq-Scope that are approximately 0.5-1 μm apart from each other. From tissue sections, Seq-Scope visualizes spatial transcriptome heterogeneity at multiple histological scales, including tissue zonation according to the portal-central (liver), crypt-surface (colon) and inflammation-fibrosis (injured liver) axes, cellular components including single cell types and subtypes, and subcellular architectures of nucleus, cytoplasm and mitochondria. Seq-scope is quick, straightforward and easy-to-implement, and makes spatial single cell analysis accessible to a wide group of biomedical researchers.
The Effects of Transfer Programs on Childless Adults: Evidence from Food Stamps

Traditional transfer programs in the United States provide few benefits to childless adults, so little is known about the effects of these policies on able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). I examine a novel source of variation in the SNAP (Food Stamps) program, in which unemployed ABAWDs have differential eligibility based a discontinuity in their local area's unemployment rate. I find causal evidence that removing SNAP work requirements decreases hours worked, but also reduces homelessness and property crimes. These findings help inform debates about basic income programs and related policies.
Computer-based workplace communication training in persons with traumatic brain injury: The work-related communication program.

Abstract Objective This proof-of-concept study presents a computer-based social communication training for spoken workplace interactions called Work-Related Communication (WoRC) training. This program implements didactic training, role-play, and immediate feedback using a simulation approach to improve spoken language performance. The unique target of this training is a category of linguistic markers called politeness markers which are essential for cooperative workplace exchanges. Methods We recruited eight adults with chronic traumatic brain injury. All participants demonstrated reduced politeness marker use in language sampling before treatment. This study had a quasi-experimental treatment design. We measured the rate of politeness marker use (politeness markers per minute) using the Voicemail Elicitation Task and novel role-play tasks, and the La Trobe Communication Questionnaire as outcome (dependent) variables. Results After training, participants demonstrated an increase in trained and untrained politeness marker use that was significant for the novel role-play tasks. The La Trobe Communication Questionnaire found that familiar conversation partners reported a significant increase in social communication skills. Conclusion The WoRC program has implications for introducing a sociolinguistic foundation for social communication training in general and specifically for vocational placement.
The Role of Nutrient Supplementation in the Management of Chronic Pain in Fibromyalgia: A Narrative Review

The multifaceted clinical presentation of fibromyalgia (FM) supports the modern understanding of the disorder as a more global condition than one simply affecting pain sensation. The main pharmacologic therapies used clinically include anti-epileptics and anti-depressants. Conservative treatment options include exercise, myofascial release, psychotherapy, and nutrient supplementation. Narrative review. Nutrient supplementation is a broadly investigated treatment modality as numerous deficiencies have been linked to FM. Additionally, a proposed link between gut microbiome patterns and chronic pain syndromes has led to studies investigating probiotics as a possible treatment. Despite positive results, much of the current evidence regarding this topic is of poor quality, with variable study designs, limited sample sizes, and lack of control groups. The etiology of FM is complex, and has shown to be multi-factorial with genetics and environmental exposures lending influence into its development. Preliminary results are promising, however, much of the existing evidence regarding diet supplementation is of poor quality. Further, more robust studies are needed to fully elucidate the potential of this alternative therapeutic option.
AFSHIN MARASHI, Exile and the Nation: The Parsi Community of India and the Making of Modern Iran (Austin: University of Texas Press, 2020)

Abstract: The following is a review of the monograph Exile and the Nation, by Afshin Marashi, which examines ideological developments reflective of the early-twentieth century encounter between Iranian intellectuals and India’s Parsi (Zoroastrian) community, such as informed the formulation of a neoclassical Iranian national identity rooted in Iran’s pre-Islamic history.
Autoimmune Lymphoproliferative Syndrome

Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome is a rare disorder arising from a mutation of the Fas gene, which encodes a receptor that induces cell death trigged by FasL and belongs to the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. Patients with ALPS have a defect in the Fas–FasL apoptotic pathway, leading to chronic lymph proliferation, autoimmune manifestations, and a propensity to develop malignancies, particularly B-cell lymphomas. 18F-FDG–PET/CT has several roles to play in patients with ALPS, e.g., ruling out a diagnosis in patients with a suspected malignancy and monitoring the response to treatment.
Teen-Age Smoking and Lung Cancer

(1960). Teen-Age Smoking and Lung Cancer. Journal of Health, Physical Education, Recreation: Vol. 31, No. 8, pp. 25-26.
Honest Direction … Directed Dishonesty

Governmental institutions often perform honestly and effectively at tasks belonging to earlier stages of research and development (R&D): • exploration, and • directed investigation.
Piezoelectric and strain properties of Ba(Ti1−xZrx)O3 ceramics

The polarization and strain behavior of Ba(Ti1−xZrx)O3 (x=0–0.3) ceramics are studied. The unipolar strain levels of ∼0.18% at 40 kV/cm and of ∼0.25% at ∼120 kV/cm with small hysteresis were obtained for the ceramics with 0.03⩽x⩽0.08. The remnant polarization is ∼13–18 μC/cm2 for 0.03⩽x⩽0.08 and below 2 μC/cm2 for 0.15⩽x⩽0.3 at room temperature. The electromechanical coupling coefficient K33=56.5% and the piezoelectric stain coefficient d33=236 pC/N were obtained for the ceramics with x=0.05. These results indicated that the Ba(Ti1−xZrx)O3 system is a promising lead-free high strain material for applications.
Evaluating Citation Analysis as a Measurement of Business Librarian Consultation Impact

This exploratory case study considers the analysis of works cited lists as a method for measuring the impact of business librarian research consultations in the context of a business-plan simulation assignment. In a gateway business class consisting of five concurrent sections in a single academic semester, 319 students received a librarian-led information and research lecture. An experimental subset of the group received an additional, personalized librarian consultation session that reinforced information concepts and research strategies with a focus on students' individual business plans.
Enantiomeric forms of 9-(5,6-dideoxy-α-d-arabino-hex-5-enofuranosyl)adenine and preparation of 9-(6-deoxy-β-d-galactofuranosyl)adenine: Further results with the acetolysis of hexofuranosides

Abstract Acetolysis of methyl 5,6-dideoxy-2,3-0-isopropylidene-β- d - ribo -hex-5-enofuranoside ( 1 ) and condensation of the product with 6-benzamidochloromercuripurine by the TiCl 4 method, gave 9-(5,6-dideoxy-α- d - arabino -hex-5-enofuranosyl) adenine ( 3 ) in low yield after removal of blocking groups. The main product was the D ribo nucleoside which was selectively destroyed by periodate oxidation to facilitate chromatographic purification of 3. The enantiomer 6 was prepared from methyl 5,6-dideoxy-2,3-0-isopropylidene-β- l - ribo -hex-5-enofuranoside ( 5 ) by the exact same route. The acetolysis reaction, in contrast to most previous experience, failed to epimerize C-2 of the sugar completely. An improved preparation of 6 is described which started from D -galactose. In addition, the latter pathway was used to prepare 9-(6-deoxy-β- d -galactofuranosyl)adenine ( 17 ).
Investigation of the catalytic and structural roles of conserved histidines of human coproporphyrinogen oxidase using site-directed mutagenesis.

BACKGROUND: The catalytic contribution of four conserved histidines of human coproporphyrinogen oxidase (CPO) has been investigated using site-directed mutagenesis to change histidine (H) into alanine (A). MATERIAL/METHODS: The wild-type and mutant enzyme forms were analyzed for their ability to utilize coproporphyrinogen-III, mesoporphyrinogen-VI, and harderoporphyrinogen as substrates. RESULTS: Wild-type CPO had specific activities of 4.9+/-0.9 nmole product/min/mg for coproporphyrinogen-III, 1.7+/-0.7 nmole product/min/mg for mesoporphyrinogen-VI, and 5.1+/-1.8 nmole product/min/mg for harderoporphyrinogen. The four mutant enzymes were catalytically competent with all three substrates, but to varying degrees. The most affected mutant was the H158A enzyme which exhibited approximately 50-fold lower activity than wild-type recombinant CPO. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, His158 of human CPO may have a role in the active site, but none of the conserved histidine residues of human coproporphyrinogen oxidase is essential for catalytic activity although changes in histidines have been implicated in the disease state hereditary coproporphyria.
De-embedding procedures for characterization of interconnect and package discontinuities

Many techniques exist for characterizing passive lossless devices utilizing a quasistatic approach. If modeled accurately, the quasistatic approaches can provide accurate results. De-embedding techniques for quasi-static solutions are not too complex. However, when radiation effects or higher order modes exist characterizing interconnects or discontinuities become a complex problem. The author presents the matrix pencil approach as a novel and accurate de-embedding procedure. In this method, the S-parameters are computed directly without requiring specific values for the characteristic impedance. This is because in this technique, the results are automatically normalized with respect to the characteristic impedance of the ports at the frequency of interest. Also, the lines need not be terminated in their characteristic impedance, z/sub 0/, to evaluate the S-parameters. This technique is particularly effective for open structures. Numerical results are presented to illustrate the various de-embedding procedures.
A trip-purpose based model of Plug-in Electric Vehicle charging demand

This paper describes a method for trip-purpose based modeling Plug-in Electric Vehicle (PEV) travel profiles to be used in estimating charging load times and durations. The method uses concepts from Activity-Based Travel Demand modeling to schedule PEV driver activities resulting in driving times and durations, from which the PEV charging profile may be determined (including when the PEV is available to charge and the amount of charging needed). The model is built using statistics from the 2009 National Household Transportation Survey. The framework for the model is presented, and after completing minor calibrations, the model will be used, in future work, to develop a multi-day travel demand model which can be adjusted to capture specific travel behavior given various demographics, urban population density, or other desirable attributes which could allow the model to more accurately represent the PEV travel demand of a specific region or city.
Very long period supergiant semidetached and contact systems.

It has been well known for some time that some close binary stars have a semidetached or contact configuration. Many late-type systems ----- W WMa systems ----- are known to have these configurations. Their dimensions are typically of solar mass to fractions of solar masses, and solar radius to fractions of solar radii. Early-type systems with semidetached and contact configurations have been found in recent years. Their typical dimensions are from several solar masses to tens of solar masses, and from several solar radii to tens of solar radii. Generally, both late and early-type close systems are located in the vicinity of ZAMS and TAMS in an H-R diagram. They are believed to be the result of case A or B mass exchange of close binary evolution. Some of us have been wondering why we do not find semidetached or contact systems with much larger dimensions consisting of supergiant stars?
The cDNA and protein sequences of human lactate dehydrogenase B

Human lactate dehydrogenase B (LDH-B) cDNA was isolated and sequenced. The LDH-B cDNA insert consists of the protein-coding sequence (999 bp), the 5' (54 bp) and 3' (203 bp) non-coding regions, and the poly(A) tail (50 bp). The predicted sequence of 333 amino acid residues was confirmed by amino acid composition and/or sequence analyses of a total of 185 (56%) residues from tryptic peptides of human LDH-B protein. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences of the human LDH-B coding region show 68% and 75% homologies respectively with those of the human LDH-A. The peptide map and amino acid composition data have been deposited as Supplementary Publication SUP 50139 (7 pages) at the British Library Lending Division, Boston Spa, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7BQ, U.K., from whom copies are available on prepayment [see Biochem. J. (1987) 241, 5].
Abnormalities in glycogen metabolism in a patient with alpers' syndrome presenting with hypoglycemia.

Intermittent hypoglycemia has been described in association with Alpers’ syndrome, a disorder caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma gene. In some patients hypoglycemia may define the initial disease presentation well before the onset of the classical Alpers’ triad of psychomotor retardation, intractable seizures, and liver failure. Correlating with the genotype, POLG pathogenicity is a result of increased mitochondrial DNA mutability, and mitochondrial DNA depletion resulting in energy deficient states. Hypoglycemia therefore could be secondary to any metabolic pathway affected by ATP deficiency. Although it has been speculated that hypoglycemia is due to secondary fatty acid oxidation defects or abnormal gluconeogenesis, the exact underlying etiology is still unclear. Here we present detailed studies on carbohydrate metabolism in an Alpers’ patient who presented initially exclusively with intermittent episodes of hypoglycemia and ketosis. Our results do not support a defect in gluconeogenesis or fatty acid oxidation as the cause of hypoglycemia. In contrast, studies performed on liver biopsy suggested abnormal glycogenolysis. This is shown via decreased activities of glycogen brancher and debrancher enzymes with normal glycogen structure and increased glycogen on histology of the liver specimen. To our knowledge, this is the first report documenting abnormalities in glycogen metabolism in a patient with Alpers’ syndrome.
Speech clinicians' attribution of personality traits as a function of stuttering severity.

Thirty-six speech-language pathologists participated in a study to evaluate clinicians' preconceptions of persons who stutter. Each rated a designated construct (the normally fluent individual, the mild stutterer, the moderate stutterer, the severe stutterer) using a personality trait scale. Results indicated that clinicians stereotypically assign negative personality traits to all levels of stuttering severity relative to normal. Their ratings further demonstrated that stutterers are generally considered to be a homogeneous group. Differentiation amongst stutterers was made only between the polar ends of the stuttering severity continuum (that is, mild vs. severe). Clinicians' stereotypical trait assignment was not related to their professional experience. Results are discussed with reference to their clinical implications.
Case report 671

Since extensive involvement of the lower extremity with arteriovenous malformations occurs often combined with the potential risk of hemorrhage, transcatheter embolization has become an attractive alternative to surgical resection [7, 9]. We describe an unusual case of extensive intraosseous hemangiomatosis, with a concomitant arteriovenous malformation that presented in a 35-year-old woman as synovitis in a knee. MR images demonstrated that the lesion was far more extensive than originally suggested and directed the subsequent biopsy and embolization. The differential diagnosis was discussed and the subject of intraosseous hemangiomatosis with associated AVM was considered in some detail.
Mercury in fish available in supermarkets in Illinois: Are there regional differences

Abstract Media coverage has made the public aware of both the benefits and the risks from eating self-caught fish, but information on contaminants in commercial fish is much more limited, especially on a local level. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration website provides methylmercury data for a variety of fish, but for many species sample sizes are small and data are more than a decade old, whereas commercial fish sources are highly dynamic. A few state agencies are beginning to provide contaminant information for commercial fish, including canned tuna. We examined the mercury concentration of six types of fish purchased in supermarkets in Chicago, Illinois in 2005. We measured total mercury (methylmercury accounts for about 90% of the total mercury in fish). One key question was whether the concentrations of mercury in fish available locally were similar to those reported in other areas of the country and in the FDA U.S. national data base. Such information is critical for the public, especially pregnant women or those planning on pregnancy, making decisions about types and quantities of fish to consume. Some fish are available generally throughout the U.S., but others are more locally available, suggesting a need for site-specific information. This research was stakeholder driven, and reflected local interest in the safety of local fish. There were significant differences in mercury concentrations among the fish, ranging from a mean of 0.03 μg/g (ppm-wet weight) for salmon ( Salmo spp. ) to 1.41 ppm for swordfish ( Xiphias gladius ). Maximum values for three species of fish (orange roughy Hoplostethus atianticus , swordfish walleye Sander vitreus ) were over 1 ppm (FDA action level), and all of the fish except salmon had some values above 0.5 ppm, the action level set by some states and countries. There were significant differences in mercury concentrations among three types of canned tuna ( Thunnus spp): “gourmet tuna” had the least amount of mercury, and white tuna had the most. The mean concentrations reported in this study were generally similar to those reported by the FDA, but there were important differences: 1) although the mean mercury concentrations for orange roughy for the Chicago data was similar to the FDA data, the maximum concentration was higher; 2) the mean for the Chicago swordfish was higher than the FDA data (1.26 vs 0.97 ppm, methylmercury); 3) the maximum for tuna steaks was higher in the FDA data set; and, 4) mean values for grouper ( Epinephelus spp . ) were higher in the FDA data set than the Chicago data. Further, the FDA has virtually no data on walleye and none on “gourmet tuna”. These conclusions suggest that there are enough variations between the local data (Chicago) and the FDA data to warrant periodic local monitoring of commercial fish to provide up-to-date information to consumers about mercury in the fish they eat.
Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions of Ionic Liquids and Polymers in Solid Polymer Gel Electrolytes

Poly(ethylene oxide), PEO, or poly(vinylidenefluoride-co-hexafluoropropene), PVdF-HFP, and the ionic liquids 1-n-propyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (MMPIBF 4 ) and 1 -n-propyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate (MMPIPF 6 ) with and without 0.5 M Li salt were used to prepare solid polymer gel electrolytes. Experimentation indicates that for the PEO films, the 20 and 30 wt % polymer gels exhibited the highest ionic conductivity, although the 20 wt % film is fragile and exhibits poor mechanical properties. Therefore, the composition of all gels studied is 30 wt % polymer and 70 wt % ionic liquid. For all systems, addition of the lithium salts results in approximately a 33% drop in ionic conductivity. Results indicate that for the formation of polymer gel electrolytes, selection of a nonpolar polymer paired with a hydrophobic electrolyte results in greater ionic conductivity and reversibility in the intercalation of Li ion into graphite. These results are interpreted in terms of the type of solid solution formed between the hydrophobic and hydrophilic polymers and the ionic liquids.
Evaluation of reaction rate constants in media where they show dispersion: Hydrogen abstraction by methyl radicals in a methanol glass

Abstract Non-exponential decay of photochemically produced alkyl radicals in organic glasses is analyzed in terms of a distribution of exponential decay rate constants arising from a distribution of hydrogen transfer distances.
Evaluation of medication reconciliation in an ambulatory setting before and after pharmacist intervention

Abstract Objectives To determine the accuracy of medication reconciliation in an internal medicine clinic and to evaluate pharmacist interventions targeted at improving the accuracy of medication reconciliation. Design Prospective case series. Setting Memphis, TN, from October 2007 to March 2008. Patients 180 adults attending an internal medicine appointment. Intervention On patient arrival, a nurse completed the medication reconciliation form. In Phase 1 of the study, a pharmacist randomly selected and reviewed a patient's medication reconciliation form, interviewed the patient, and verified information if indicated. A total of 90 forms were reviewed and compared to determine baseline medication reconciliation accuracy. Education interventions were held with the medical and nursing staff, targeting areas for improvement. In Phase 2 of the study, 90 additional medication reconciliation forms were reviewed in the same manner. Phase 1 and Phase 2 results were compared to evaluate differences in accuracy after the pharmacist's education interventions. Main outcome measures Accuracy of medication reconciliation forms and number of potentially significant errors at baseline and after pharmacist interventions. Results In Phase 1, 14.4% of medication reconciliation forms were correct. The remaining forms contained 190 potentially significant errors. After the education interventions, 18.9% of medication reconciliation forms were correct and the others contained 139 potentially significant errors. Conclusion Medication reconciliation accuracy is poor. Although education interventions showed a trend toward improvement, continued education training for staff and patients is needed in addition to other interventions to optimize this process and prevent medication errors.
Single-Cell Raman Spectroscopy and Morphological Changes of Normal and Cancer Cells in Suspension

Spatially resolved spectroscopies provide a non-destructive in-situ probe at the single cell level. We employ micro-Raman spectroscopy to investigate the biochemical and structural composition of P69 and PC3 prostate cells. P69 is a non-tumorigenic cell line developed from normal prostate epithelial cells while PC3 is a highly aggressive metastatic prostate cancer cell line developed from bone metatasis. The studies were conducted to differentiate between benign and malignant cancer tissues. Micro-Raman spectra were measured with 633 nm excitation with less than 4 mW power on live cells both in suspension and on substrates. The Raman spectra reveal differences between normal and cancer cells in the C-C, amide I and amide III regions. We also investigate mechanical properties and morphological changes in individual cells employing high pressure microscopy. Our setup allows real time imaging of individual cells at variable pressure. We probe differences in cell mobility and mechanical stability between normal and cancer cells during a pressure cycle over the range from 0.1 to 200 MPa.
Purity Considerations and Interfacial Behavior of Solvent Extraction Systems

Abstract The techniques to purify different components of a typical solvent extraction system, viz., n-hexane/di(2-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid (HDEHP)/CaCl2 solution, are described. Data showing how the purity of the different components affects the interfacial tension (γ) are given. The interfacial behavior of the n-hexane/ HDEHP/0.01 mol dm−3 CaCl2 solution system was studied as a function of HDEHP concentration and aqueous phase pH. γ-log [HDEHP] curves were also determined at pH 4 when the aqueous phase contained 0.05 mol dm−3 MgCl2, CaCl2, SrCl2 or BaCl2. γ-log [HDEHP] curves revealed interaction of the metal ions with the extractant and exhibited a behavior reminiscent of aggregate formation when the aqueous phase contained Ca2+.
Childhood abuse is associated with adiposity in midlife women: possible pathways through trait anger and reproductive hormones.

OBJECTIVE To examine the association between childhood abuse/neglect and central adiposity and obesity in a sample of 311 women (n = 106 black, 205 white) from the Pittsburgh site of the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). METHODS SWAN included a baseline measurement of women in midlife (mean age = 45.7 years) and eight follow-up visits during which waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI) were measured. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire retrospectively assessed emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and emotional and physical neglect in childhood. RESULTS Analyses of covariance showed that women with a history of any abuse/neglect, and specifically physical and sexual abuse, had significantly higher WC and BMI at baseline than women with no abuse history. A significant interaction between abuse and BMI showed that among women with BMI of <30, any abuse/neglect and certain subtypes of abuse predicted greater increases in WC over time. Additional analyses showed that Trait Anger scores and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) attenuated cross-sectional relationships between abuse/neglect and WC and BMI. CONCLUSION This study suggests that abused/neglected women seem to have greater anger and lower levels of SHBG, which are associated with adiposity in midlife.
Toward Colloidal Dispersions of Template-Synthesized Polypyrrole Nanotubules

The template method for preparing nanomaterials entails synthesis of the desired material within the pores of a microporous membrane. Monodisperse tubules and fibrils of the desired material are obtained. Procedures for preparing colloidal suspensions of template-synthesized polypyrrole nanotubules are described here.
Indications for using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery to diagnose diaphragmatic injuries after penetrating chest trauma.

Abstract Background . Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has been shown to be an accurate method for identifying diaphragmatic injuries (DIs). The purpose of this investigation was to establish specific indications for the use of VATS after penetrating chest trauma. Methods . A retrospective review of all patients undergoing VATS after penetrating chest trauma at a level 1 trauma center over an 8-year period was performed. Logistic regression was used in an attempt to identify independent predictors of DI. Results . One hundred seventy-one patients underwent VATS assessment of a hemidiaphragm, and 60 patients (35%) were found to have a DI. Five independent risk factors for DI were identified from analyzing the patient records: abnormal chest radiograph, associated intraabdominal injuries, high-velocity mechanism of injury, entrance wound inferior to the nipple line or scapula, and right-sided entrance wound. Conclusions . In the largest published series of patients undergoing VATS to exclude a DI, this review identifies five independent predictors of DI after penetrating chest trauma. A diagnostic algorithm incorporating these five factors was designed with the goal of reducing the number of unrecognized DIs after penetrating chest trauma by using VATS for patients at greatest risk for such injuries.
A Study of Programmable Switch Symbology

A multifunction switch is one way to solve the diminishing real estate problem in the modern cockpit. This study looked at pictorial coding of such a switch. Twelve different symbols were used, each with three levels of complexity and two levels of polarity. An error rate count was taken for subjects under both a naive and learned 50 millisecond exposure condition. This study demonstrated that there were three classes of symbols. These were: intuitive to the naive subject, intuitive to a learned subject, and non-intuitive, even to a learned subject. Complexity levels had a significant effect in only three of the twelve symbols. Polarity differences also had a significant effect in only three of the twelve symbols, although they were a different three. The overall conclusion is that the majority of symbols were intuitive after learning and robust to changes in complexity and polarity. Language: en
The Neogene transition from C3 to C4 grasslands in North America: stable carbon isotope ratios of fossil phytoliths

Abstract C4 grasses form the foundation of warm-climate grasslands and savannas and provide important food crops such as corn, but their Neogene rise to dominance is still not fully understood. Carbon isotope ratios of tooth enamel, soil carbonate, carbonate cements, and plant lipids indicate a late Miocene–Pliocene (8-2 Ma) transition from C3 vegetation to dominantly C4 grasses at many sites around the world. However, these isotopic proxies cannot identify whether the C4 grasses replaced woody vegetation (trees and shrubs) or C3 grasses. Here we propose a method for reconstructing the carbon isotope ratio of Neogene grasses using the carbon isotope ratio of organic matter trapped in plant silica bodies (phytoliths). Although a wide range of plants produce phytoliths, we hypothesize that in grass-dominated ecosystems the majority of phytoliths will be derived from grasses, and will yield a grass carbon isotope signature. Phytolith extracts can be contaminated by non-phytolith silica (e.g., volcanic ash). ...
Methylenedioxyphenyl Derivatives as Synergists for Carbamate Insecticides on Susceptible, DDT-, and Parathion-resistant House Flies

2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethyl 3,4-methlylenedioxyphenyl acetal of acetaldehyde (sesamex) and 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl benzenesulfonate were found to be active synergists for four carbamate insecticides against susceptible, DDT, and parathionresistant house flies ( Musca domestica L.). In contrast to the usual ratios of synergist to insecticide, in this study, insecticide/ synergist ratios higher than 1.0 were used. Cross resistance and levels of tolerance to the carbamate insecticides by DDT- and parathion-resistant flies were determined. Studies of the in vitro inhibition of human blood plasma and fly head cholinesterases have shown that with the exception of Sevin® (1-naphthyl- N -methyl carbamate), the carbamates studied are less active inhibitors for fly head cholinesterases than for human plasma cholinesterases.
Influence of calcitonin on the initial uptake of lead and mercury by bone.

SummaryLead acetate (20 to 40 mg/kg body weight) or mercuric chloride (3 mg/kg body weight) was injected intravenously into normal rats and those pretreated with calcitonin (0.1 mU/g body wt/hr for 1-4 hr). Rats were sacrificed at intervals from 5 min to 24 hr after heavy metal injection. Tibias were prepared histologically, using Okada and Mimura's vital staining technique. The metaphyses and diaphyses were examined under the light microscope to study the effect of calcitonin on the uptake and distribution of these two metals in bone. Calcitonin dramatically reduced the initial uptake of lead and mercury by bone. This reduction, at least for lead, occurred in both trabecular and compact bone. The mechanism(s) by which calcitonin influences the distribution of lead and mercury in bone has not yet been determined.
Error recovery in shared memory multiprocessors using private caches

The problem of recovering from processor transient faults in shared memory multiprocessor systems is examined. A user-transparent checkpointing and recovery scheme using private caches is presented. Processes can recover from errors due to faulty processors by restarting from the checkpointed computation state. Implementation techniques using checkpoint identifiers and recovery stacks are examined as a means of reducing performance degradation in processor utilization during normal execution. This cache-based checkpointing technique prevents rollback propagation, provides rapid recovery, and can be integrated into standard cache coherence protocols. An analytical model is used to estimate the relative performance of the scheme during normal execution. Extensions to take error latency into account are presented. >
Ethical considerations in adolescent drug research.

Dear Editor, Dougherty and colleagues’ recent article evaluating marijuana use related to cognitive and behavioral impairment in adolescents is an interesting addition to the literature. The article is well written and the data well presented. While I am enthusiastic about the topic and data presented in the article, there is one point that gives me pause. My major concern is that the parents of these adolescents are not notified of their children’s marijuana use. On one hand, I fully recognize and support the need to maintain confidentiality for both privacy and methodological purposes. In this respect, the decision to not inform parents of their children’s cannabis use is consistent. However, the authors assert that “being an adolescent marijuana user [is] associated with impaired performance on measures of sustained attention, shortterm memory, decision-making, impulse control... and intelligence.” They continue to state that “these impairments may relate to these individuals’ increased risk for future psychiatric conditions, including psychotic and affective disorders as well as more severe substance use disorders.” Following the researchers’ line of reasoning, adolescents are at serious risk for lifelong cognitive and behavioral “impairment” as a result of continued cannabis use. In this light, to not disclose a child’s marijuana use to their parents seems unethical. If the pathological implications presented in the discussion are the basis for judgment, parents should be notified. Perhaps the investigators’ decision not to notify parents would be justified if the picture painted in their discussion was not so dire, but instead more in line with the minimal risk for impairment revealed in their data. Yet, as long as discovering pathological impairments remains the rationale for adolescent drug research, this ethical quandary will remain. Ethical considerations in adolescent drug research
Confidence intervals for a ratio of two independent binomial proportions

Several large-sample confidence intervals for the ratio of independent binomial proportions are compared in terms of exact coverage probability and width. A non-iterative approximate Bayesian interval is derived and its frequency properties are superior to all of the non-iterative confidence intervals considered. The approximate Bayesian interval, which is very easy to compute, has performance characteristics that are very similar to the computationally intensive score method. Two sample size determination formulas are presented, one for desired absolute precision and the other for desired relative precision.
Semileptonic and rare D and D/s charm decays at FOCUS

Over 1 million charm decays were collected by the E831 photoproduction experiment (FOCUS) during the 1996–1997 Fermilab fixed target run. Analysis techniques and results particular to semileptonic and rare D and Ds charm decays from the FOCUS experiment are reviewed.
On the Vibration of Bolted Plate and Flange Assemblies

The vibration of an annular plate that is free along its outer edge, and that is connected to a flange along its inner edge by bolts that are equally spaced in the circumferential direction, is studied. A disk with this geometry, or a stacked array of such disks, is common in application involving data storage, rotating machinery or brake systems. The periodic structural imperfections that are associated with the bolt pattern can have interesting implications for the plate's dynamic response. Changes that occur in the natural frequencies and mode shapes as a result of such deviations from an ideally clamped inner edge are studied through laboratory measurements, and through an approximate model that captures the rotationally periodic character of the bolted plate and flange system
Application of osteopathic manipulative treatment to a patient with unremitting chest pain and shortness of breath undergoing “Rule-Out Myocardial Infarction” protocol for one week

Abstract Chest pain and shortness of breath are both common complaints of patients presenting to an emergency room (ER) or urgent care facility. A 67-year-old married white female was seen in the ER complaining of chest pain and shortness of breath. Our education and training has us admit these patients where they may be monitored and assessed according to protocols developed to rule-out serious etiologies. Accordingly, the patient was admitted to the cardiac care unit and placed on the "Rule-Out Myocardial Infarction" protocol. The patient's symptoms persisted despite adherence to rigorous diagnostic and therapeutic regimens and which stymied attempts to arrive at a definitive diagnosis and provide care. The case presented here demonstrates how an osteopathic approach can enable us to provide appropriate care and resolve some problems that appear to be otherwise unremitting. There is potential for savings in terms of actual costs and utilization of resources. The use of an osteopathic structural exam identified an abnormality that could be easily treated with Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), which completely resolved the patient's presenting complaints. Had this been done earlier in the course of managing this patient, preferably as part of the admission work-up, the patient's confinement would have been drastically reduced, and repeated expensive tests would not have had to have been performed. The application of OMT to reducing patient morbidity is instructive of the efficacy of the osteopathic approach in this case and suggests that further research is warranted.
Investigation of a hydrogen-assisted combustion system for a light-duty diesel vehicle

Abstract Two sets of experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of adding gaseous hydrogen to the intake of compression–ignition (CI) engines fueled with 20% bio-derived/80% petroleum-derived diesel fuel (B20). A 1.3 L, 53 kW CI engine coupled to an eddy-current engine dynamometer was tested first. Data were collected on engine operating parameters, fuel consumption, concentration of total oxides of nitrogen (NO x ) in the exhaust, and exhaust temperature. Eight steady-state operating points were tested with hydrogen flow rates equivalent to 0%, 5%, and 10% of the total fuel energy. In a second set of experiments, the stock gasoline engine of a 2005 Chevrolet Equinox was replaced with a 1.3 L, 66 kW CI engine, and urban drive cycles were run on a chassis dynamometer. The drive cycles were repeated with 0%, 5% and 10% of the fuel energy coming from the fumigated hydrogen. In both experiments, the addition of hydrogen did not result in discernable differences in engine efficiency. In the vehicle testing, there were no noticeable differences in drivability. There were modest reductions in NO x emissions and increases in exhaust temperature with hydrogen addition. This investigation demonstrates that fumigating relatively small amounts of hydrogen into the intake of a modern diesel engine results in only modest changes in combustion efficiency and emissions with no detrimental effects on vehicle performance or drivability. This strategy can be used to partially offset the use of petroleum-based fuels in light-duty transportation vehicles.
Effect of p-xylene inhalation on the bioactivation of bromobenzene in rat lung and liver.

Abstract It is unclear whether the pneumotoxicity observed with bromobenzene (BB) in phenobarbital-induced rats is related to BB bioactivation in lung, liver or both. To help differentiate pulmonary from hepatic bioactivation, BB was administered alone and in combination with p-xylene, which inhibits pulmonary but induces hepatic cytochromes P450. Exposure to p-xylene alone (3400 ppm for 4 hr) produced no changes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) measurements (γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, lactate dehydrogenase, protein, white blood cell count) or serum sorbitol dehydrogenase. p-Xylene increased hepatic microsomal benzyloxy- (BROD), pentoxy- (PROD), and ethoxy- (EROD) resorufin O-dealkylase activities but decreased pulmonary microsomal BROD and PROD. Immunoblot analysis revealed an induction of hepatic but not pulmonary microsomal P450IIB apoprotein. When rats were exposed to p-xylene (2800 ppm) or room air for 4 hr, treated 12 hr later with BB (0.5 ml/kg, ip) or corn oil, and killed after 12 hr, p-xylene increased hepatic P450IIB (27-fold) concomittant with a similar increase in BROD activity. p-Xylene also increased hepatic P450IA apoprotein (3.4-fold) with a complimentary increase in EROD activity. p-Xylene potentiated BB-induced hepatotoxicity. In pulmonary microsomes p-xylene and BB each produced similar decreases in both EROD and BROD activities. The combination of p-xylene and BB had an additive effect on pulmonary P450IA1 reduction. BALF analysis and histopathology revealed no pneumotoxicity with any treatment. p-Xylene potentiation of BB-induced hepatotoxicity without pneumotoxicity suggests that the liver does not produce metalites of BB which are directly involved in pulmonary damage.
A clove-hitch suture method for small-caliber tendon ends.

This is a copy of an article published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, American Volume © 2012 Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Inc