cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Attenuation characteristics of fiberoptic plates for digital mammography and other X-ray imaging applications

Spatially coherent fiberoptic plates are important components of some charge-coupled device (CCD)-based x-ray imaging systems. These plates efficiently transmit scintillations from the phosphor, and also filter out x-rays not absorbed by the phosphor, thus protecting the CCD from direct x-ray interaction. The thickness of the fiberoptic plate and the CCD package present a significant challenge in the design of a digital x-ray cassette capable of insertion into the existing film-screen cassette holders of digital mammography systems. This study was performed with an aim to optimize fiberoptic plate thickness. Attenuation measurements were performed on nine fiberoptic plates varying in material composition that exhibit desirable optical characteristics such as good coupling efficiency. Mammographic spectra from a clinical mammographic system and an Americium-241 (Am-241) source (59.54 KeV) were used. The spectra were recorded with a high-resolution cadmium zinc telluride (CZT)-based spectrometer and corrected for dead time and pile-up. The linear attenuation coefficients varied by a factor of 3 in the set of tested fiberoptic plates at both mammographic energies and 59.54 keV. Our results suggest that a 3-mm thick high-absorption plate might provide adequate for shielding at mammographic energies. A thickness of 2-mm is feasible for mammographic applications with further optimization of the fiberoptic plate composition by incorporating non-scintillating, high-atomic number material. This would allow more space for cooling components of the cassette and for a more compact device, which is critical for clinical implementation of the technology.
Morphonuclear relationship between prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and cancers as assessed by digital cell image analysis.

Using digital cell image analysis performed on Feulgen-stained nuclei, the nuclear characteristics of prostatic neoplasia, ranging from benign (benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH]), through dysplastic (prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia [PIN] 1-3), to carcinoma were studied. Four histopathologic groups were studied: group IA (18 samples) contained BPH, PIN 1, and PIN 2 lesions that were from 9 prostate samples free of cancer. Group IB (23 samples) was identical to group IA, contained also BPH, PIN 1, and PIN 2 lesions, but lesions that were from 7 prostate samples where malignant foci were detected elsewhere. Group II (11 samples) were PIN 3 specimens. Group III (24 samples) were carcinomas. Features of neoplastic nuclei were quantified objectively through morphometric (nuclear size), densitometric (nuclear DNA content), and textural (chromatin organization and heterogeneity) parameters. Cell kinetic parameter, i.e., cell proliferation index, was assessed from the densitometric measurement. The proliferation index was significantly higher in PIN 3 and cancers as compared to BPH, PIN 1, and PIN 2 tissues. Morphonuclear characteristics were also dramatically distinct among the four groups. Indeed, the nuclear size and the hyperchromatism of severe prostatic dysplasia were similar to those of carcinomas, these two lesion types showing mean parameter values that were higher as compared to BPH, PIN 1, and PIN 2 lesions. Finally, benign tissues related to mild or moderate dysplasia taken in histologic material in which cancer was present already share the morphonuclear characteristics of severe dysplasia, although they are nonproliferating.
The Progeny of Lee v. Weisman: Can Student-Invited Prayer at Public School Graduations Still be Constitutional?

This article examines the issue of prayer in public schools. It discusses Lee v. Weisman and then looks at the holdings of courts that have ruled on school prayer cases arising after Lee, including Jones v. Clear Creek Independent School District, Harris v. Joint School District No. 241 and other recent cases. In the conclusion of the article, the author analyzes whether the “student-initiated exception” to Lee is consistent with the First Amendment.
Registration of planar virtual fixtures by using augmented reality with dynamic textures

This paper presents a method to align a virtual plane with a real plane in an augmented reality environment. The method addresses the challenge of configuring a planar virtual fixture during the teleoperation of a robot in a visually challenging environment. The method assists the operator to manually align the virtual plane with the real plane by providing visual cues by dynamically texturing the virtual plane. Following the manual initialization a robust evaluation of the optical flow is used to refine the alignment of the virtual plane. The system combines a stereo camera with a stereo display and generates visual distortions in the displayed images to indicate a misalignment of the virtual plane with the real one. The distortion is computed by displaying warped images from the left camera in the right display and vice versa. Results demonstrate that the method improves the accuracy of the alignment with a real plane that is covered with reflective multi-layer insulation.
The gas phase structures of the isomers of benzene. III. Hexamethylprismane and hexamethylbenzene

Abstract The molecular structures of hexamethylprismane (HMP) and hexamethyl-benzene (HMB) were investigated in the gas phase by electron diffraction. The scattering angles covered were q = 5 to 135 A −1 for HMB and q = 4 to 130 A −1 for HMP. The following structural features of the isomers were determined by least squares fitting of the computed to the experimental molecular scattering functions. In HMP (symmetry D 3h ) the [ r g ] values are: C 1 -C 2 (▵) = 1.540 ± 0.009; C 1 -C 4 (□) = 1.551 ± 0.005; C 1 -C 7 (methyl) = 1.490 ± 0.006; C-H = 1.133 ± 0.009; ∠CCH = 117.0° ± 1.0° and ∠C 2 C 1 C 7−me = 132.9°. In HMB C 1 -C 2 (ring) = 1.417 ± 0.002 A; C 1 -C 7 (methyl) = 1.530 ± 0.003 A; C-H = 1.125 ± 0.003; ∠HCC = 107.4° ± 4.0°. In the thermal average structure, the outer ring C atoms are not coplanar with the benzene ring, alternately deviating by ± 9.9 ( ± 1.8)° from the plane of the inner ring.
Interactive boosting for image classification

Traditional boosting method like adaboost, boosts a weak learning algorithm by updating the sample weights (the relative importance of the training samples) iteratively. In this paper, we propose to integrate feature reweighting into boosting scheme, which not only weights the samples but also weights the feature elements iteratively. To avoid overfitting problem caused by feature re-weighting on a small training data set, we also incorporate relevance feedback into boosting and propose an interactive boosting called i.Boosting. It merges adaboost, feature re-weighting and relevance feedback into one framework and exploits the favorable attributes of these methods. In this paper, i.Boosting is implemented using Adaptive Discriminant Analysis (ADA) as base classifiers. It not only enhances but also combines a set of ADA classifiers into a more powerful one. A feature re-weighting method for ADA is also proposed and integrated in i.Boosting. Extensive experiments on UCI benchmark data sets, three facial image data sets and COREL color image data sets show the superior performance of i.Boosting over AdaBoost and other state-of-the-art projection-based classifiers.
Effects of chlorpromazine hydrochloride and its metabolites on Mg2+- and Na+,K+-ATPase activities of canalicular-enriched rat liver plasma membranes

Recent experiments in primates indicate that the phenothiazine drug chlorpromazine hydrochloride inhibits both bile salt-dependent and -independent bile flow in a predictable fashion. Because a significant fraction of bile salt-independent bile flow is postulated to depend upon the activity of a canalicular membrane Na+,K+-ATPase, we have examined the effects chlorpromazine hydrochloride and its metabolites on the ATPase activities of canalicular-enriched rat liver plasma membranes. Chlorpromazine inhibited the activities of both Mg2+- and Na+,K+-ATPases with a linear dose-response relationship between 10 and 100 micronM. The inhibition of Na+,K+-ATPase was pH dependent, showing a maximal inhibition at pH 7.8. Over the pH range 7.0 to 8.2, the inhibition was significantly reduced with the addition of glutathione and was augmented under experimental conditions (ultraviolet irradiation and peroxidase-H2O2) that promote the formation of the chlorpromazine semiquinone free radical. The 7-hydroxychlorpromazine metabolite was as active an inhibitor as the parent drug; however, two sulfoxide metabolites, chlorpromazine sulfoxide and 7-hydroxychlorpromazine sulfoxide, were less effective inhibitors of Na+, K+-ATPase. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that chlorpromazine cholestasis may be a result of a direct toxic effect on the ATPase activities of hepatic canalicular membranes. Our results further suggest that if chlorpromazine cholestasis occurs through an interaction with canalicular membrane ATPases, the degree of cholestasis may well be influenced by the extent of the conversion of the drug to its more active (free radical) or minimally active (sulfoxide) metabolites and by the local environment (pH and glutathione concentration) of the canalicular membrane.
Perindopril arginine + amlodipine for the treatment of hypertension in the USA.

Introduction: Controlling blood pressure is a global health priority; single-pill combinations of antihypertensive agents are often prescribed to improve adherence, persistence, and outcomes.Areas covered: A novel preparation of perindopril arginine and amlodipine besylate was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration on 21 Jan 2015, based primarily on a 837-subject, 6-week, randomized, multicenter, prospective, clinical trial. The maximal marketed dose of the combination (14/10 mg daily) lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure significantly more than either monotherapy, with a reduction in adverse effects (especially ankle edema), compared to amlodipine alone.Expert opinion: Substantial clinical trial experience with amlodipine or perindopril suggests that these two agents effectively lower blood pressure, and may reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. In the Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial, hypertensive subjects randomized to receive these two drugs (in sequen...
A phase II trial of anastrozole in advanced recurrent or persistent endometrial carcinoma : a Gynecologic Oncology Group study

Abstract Background. Some endometrial cancers are hormonally dependent. A principal source of circulating estrogen is conversion of adrenal androstenedione by aromatase. Anastrozole (Arimidex) is an oral nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor which is active in recurrent breast cancer. This Phase II study was undertaken to evaluate anastrozole in recurrent endometrial carcinoma. Methods. Patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer not curable with either surgery or radiation therapy and with measurable disease, a GOG (Zubrod) performance status of ≤2, no more than one prior hormonal therapy regimen, and no prior chemotherapy were eligible. Anastrozole was administered at a dose of 1 mg/day orally for at least 28 days. Results. Twenty-three patients were entered on this trial. On central pathology review, 9 of them had grade 2 and 14 had grade 3 tumors. One to 24 courses (median: 1) of therapy were administered. Two partial responses were noted (9%; 90% confidence interval 3 to 23%). Two additional patients had short-term stable disease. With the exception of 1 case of venous thrombosis, the toxicity profile was mild. Median durations of progression-free survival and overall survival are 1 and 6 months, respectively. Conclusions. Anastrozole has minimal activity in an unselected population of patients with recurrent endometrial cancer.
A robust path tracking algorithm for homotopy continuation

Abstract Conventional path tracking algorithms used in homotopy continuation systems sometimes miss roots owing to jumping from one segment of the homotopy path to another even if there exists homotopy paths to the roots. A robust path tracking algorithm is proposed which loses significant efficiency only on those portions of the path where segment jumping is likely to occur. The method presented here basically performs the predictor-corrector procedure using the Euler predictor and the Newton corrector. Any available algorithm can be used to control the step size. Robustness is achieved by adding the following rule: control the step size so that each continuation step causes a reasonably small change in the determinant of the augmented Jacobian. Case studies have shown that allowing −50 to +100% change virtually eliminates segment jumping in all the path-tracking algorithms tested. The determinant monitoring step size control algorithm can be applied to most of the currently available path tracking algorithms so that extremely tangled homotopy paths can be traced, finding all roots on them.
Abstract 4480: Double targeting nanoscale drug delivery system for treatment and imaging of metastatic solid cancers

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Purpose: As an alternative to the drawbacks of current advanced cancer treatments such as conventional chemotherapy, we propose a multifunctional double targeting drug delivery system that utilizes the combination of cancer-targeting peptides fused to amphiphilic polymer coated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and loaded with suitable anticancer drugs as the payload. Methods: PC3 human prostate cancer cell line will be used initially to test the efficiency of the proposed drug delivery system. Our target sites of choice are the luteinizing hormone releasing hormone receptor (LHRH-R) and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), and docetaxel was selected as the payload. A modified LHRH (ligand for LHRH-R) and AE105 (ligand for uPAR) were conjugated to polymer coated IONPs according to the manufacturer's protocol. Results: Conjugated IONPs were characterized by gel electrophoresis and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). IONPs showed expected narrow size distribution after conjugation with peptide ligand. The average hydrodynamic size of non targeted IONPs (36.84 nm) was increased upon conjugation of double peptide to their surface (44.06 nm). Conjugation of peptides to carboxylic groups of polymer coating on IONPs resulted in a decrease of zeta potential from -70.43 mV to -58.06 mV. Prussian blue staining demonstrated that LHRH and AE105 conjugated IONPs were internalized efficiently by the PC3 cells. The drug loading and release capability of conjugated IONPs will be evaluated by HPLC. In addition the internalization of conjugated IONPs will also be examined utilizing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and tumor eradication will be determined by MTT assay. Conclusions: We expect a significant enhancement in the binding efficiency of the LHRH-IONPs-AE105 to the prostate cancer cells, increased efficiency in tumor eradication, and better imaging and monitoring capabilities because IONPs can be visualized by MRI during molecular imaging of the prostate cancer cells. Therefore, we believe the optimization of the proposed system will enhance targeted nanomedicine and significantly improve the health outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients because of the following reasons: 1) its ability to deliver anticancer drugs specifically to cancer cells while sparing the surrounding normal tissues, and 2) the capability of in situ monitoring of the therapeutics. Citation Format: Md Shakir U. Ahmed, Mohamed O. Abdalla, Timothy Turner. Double targeting nanoscale drug delivery system for treatment and imaging of metastatic solid cancers. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 4480. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4480
Defining the 'survivasome' of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Identification of drug targets in M. tuberculosis is a challenge for bench science. High-throughput mutagenesis with transposons together with microarray-based genome and transcriptome profiling has begun to meet this challenge.
Management of thyroid nodules with atypical cytology on fine-needle aspiration biopsy.

Background Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the thyroid categorized as atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) is a newly defined category according to the recent Bethesda guidelines. We sought to assess the characteristics and treatment of patients with an AUS/FLUS FNAB at our institution. Additionally, we evaluated the utility of the recommended 3-month timing of repeat FNAB.
On some estimates based on sample behavior near high level excursions

Let {ξ j } be a stationary sequence of weakly dependent random variables and letM n (k) be thek-th largest value of ξ j , 1≦j≦n. The estimation of the parameters of the asymptotic distribution ofM n (k) is considered using a procedure motivated by a limit theorem pertaining to the point process $$\sum\nolimits_j {\delta _{(j/n, n\bar F(\xi _j ))} } $$ . A number of statistical issues concerning the procedure, including how to select the tuning parameters, are addressed. The second problem that we consider is the estimation of the filter of a moving average process with heavy tails. In particular, the investigation covers the moving average stable process. Motivated by ideas in Rootzen (1978), our estimator uses information contained in the sample behavior of the process near the largest excursion.
Viruses and virus-like protein assemblies-Chemically programmable nanoscale building blocks

Supramolecular proteins are generated using a limited set of twenty amino acids, but have distinctive functionalities which arise from the sequential arrangement of amino acids configured to exquisite three-dimensional structures. Viruses, virus-like particles, ferritins, enzyme complexes, cellular micro-compartments, and other supramolecular protein assemblies exemplify these systems, with their precise arrangements of tens to hundreds of molecules into highly organized scaffolds for nucleic acid packaging, metal storage, catalysis or sequestering reactions at the nanometer scale. These versatile protein systems, dubbed as bionanoparticles (BNPs), have attracted materials scientists to seek new opportunities with these pre-fabricated templates in a wide range of nanotechnology-related applications. Here, we focus on some of the key modification strategies that have been utilized, ranging from basic protein conjugation techniques to more novel strategies, to expand the functionalities of these multimeric protein assemblies. Ultimately, in combination with molecular cloning and sophisticated chemistries, these BNPs are being incorporated into many applications ranging from functional materials to novel biomedical drug designs.
Rorschach responses of paraplegic and quadriplegic patients.

This investigation was concerned with the personality characteristics of a sample of patients with spinal cord lesions. One group of paraplegic patients was compared wth a group of quadriplegic patients. The paraplegics manifested certain characteristics indicating childlike immediate needs for gratification, together with difficulties in interpersonal relationships. The quadriplegic appears to be more absorbed with his disability, and evidences a great deal of concern about the human body. It appears worth while, therefore, in reporting on patients with spinal cord lesions, that distinction be made between the various neurological disabilities.
Endurance capacity, not body size, determines physical activity levels: role of skeletal muscle PEPCK.

Some people remain lean despite pressure to gain weight. Lean people tend to have high daily activity levels, but the source of this increased activity is unknown. We found that leanness cannot be accounted for by increased weight-corrected food intake in two different types of lean rats. As previously reported in lean people, we found that lean rats had higher daily activity levels; lean rats also expended more energy. These lean rats were developed through artificial selection for high aerobic endurance capacity. To test whether our findings extended to a human population, we measured endurance capacity using a VO2max treadmill test and daily activity in a group of non-exercising individuals. Similar to lean rats selectively bred for endurance capacity, our study revealed that people with higher VO2max also spent more time active throughout the day. Hence, endurance capacity may be the trait that underlies both physical activity levels and leanness. We identified one potential mechanism for the lean, active phenotype in rats, namely high levels of skeletal muscle PEPCK. Therefore, the lean phenotype is characterized by high endurance capacity and high activity and may stem from altered skeletal muscle energetics.
Temporal lobectomy outcome in older versus younger adults

A total of 340 patients age 50 years and older were compared with 30 patients younger than 50 years, all of whom had anterior temporal lobectomy for refractory epilepsy. Seizure outcome, neuropsychological test scores, and change in driving status were analyzed. Age and duration of epilepsy were related independently to outcome, but laterality of interictal sharp waves (an early epilepsy risk factor) and presence of tumor were not. Sixteen patients (52%) in the older group and 257 patients (75.6%) in the younger group (p < 0.008) were seizure free. Postoperative neuropsychological outcome and driving status were similar in older and younger patients.
Capillary basement membrane in retina, kidney, and muscle of diabetic dogs and galactosemic dogs and its response to 5 years aldose reductase inhibition

Capillary basement membrane thickening has been compared in retina, renal glomerulus, and leg muscle of dogs alloxan-diabetic 5 years and dogs experimentally galactosemic 5 years, and the effects of inhibition of aldose reductase have been examined. Basement membrane in each site became thickened as a result of either galactosemia or diabetes, but showed appreciable variation among the sites. The thickening of basement membrane in retina and muscle of galactosemic animals was similar in quantity and appearance to that seen in the diabetics, notwithstanding large differences between the two animal models with respect to tissue polyol concentrations and nonenzymatic glycation of hemoglobin and plasma protein. Aldose reductase inhibition was without influence on capillary basement membrane thickening in each tissue from dogs diabetic or galactosemic 5 years, despite substantial polyol path inhibition.
The present status of parity violation in electron scattering

Abstract Previous measurements of parity violation in electron scattering are reviewed with particular emphasis on experimental techniques. Significant progress in the attainment of higher precision is evident in these efforts. These pioneering experiments provide a basis for consideration of a future program of such measurements. Some future plans and possibilities in this field are discussed.
Chronic myelogenous leukemia occurring in two brothers diagnosed 26 years apart

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is characterized by the presence of the chromosomal abnormality t(9;22)(q34;q11), which is detected in more than 90% of cases. Despite great strides in our understanding of this disease, few predisposing etiologic factors have been identified. We report on the case of a 45-year-old man with Philadelphia chromosome-positive, BCR-ABL fusion-positive chronic-phase CML, whose brother had succumbed to the same disease 22 years earlier. While a coincidental familial occurrence cannot be excluded in this case, we believe that this report underscores the need for further investigation of possible unknown environmental or heritable etiologic factors in this disease.
Metabolic and neuroendocrine indices one month after lateral hypothalamic area lesions.

Mature male rats received bilateral electrolytic lateral hypothalamic area lesions (LHAL) or were sham-operated fed ad lib (CON-ADLIB) or sham-operated pair-fed/gained (CON-PF) to LHAL rats. One month later all rats were sacrificed. Rats with LHAL were hypophagic and had reduced body carcass fat, testes, livers, epididymal fat pads (PADS), diaphragms (DIA), and body weight compared to CON-ADLIB. In the liver, LHAL rats incorporated more C14-U-glucose carbon (GLUCINC) into lipid and glycogen than both CON groups, but GLUCINC was similar among CON groups. In PADS, LHAL rats oxidized more glucose carbon (GLUCOX) than CON-ADLIB but less than CON-PF/PG. The latter showed greater GLUCOX than CON-ADLIB. In DIA, LHAL and CON-PF/PG showed reduced GLUCINC into glycogen vs. CON-ADLIB. Plasma glucose was similar among groups, but insulin was lower in LHAL and CON-ADLIB than in CON-PF/PG. Rats with LHAL had lower plasma T3 concentrations than CON-ADLIB, but similar T3 levels compared to CON-PF/PG. Several of the metabolic changes in LHAL rats could be due to hypophagia; however, four out of nine metabolic indices, glucose carbon incorporation into liver lipid and glycogen and epididymal fat pad lipid and oxidation, were significantly different from CON-PF/PG, i.e., they were independent of food intake. Possibly then, they are due to a lesion effect other than on feeding mechanisms. Some aspects of metabolism that were previously found to be altered 48 h after LHAL were recovered, whereas others apparently were not.
Adenosine stimulates cone photoreceptor myoid elongation via an adenosine A2-like receptor.

Abstract: In several parts of the nervous system, adenosine has been shown to function as an extracellular neuromodulator binding to surface receptors on target cells. This study examines the possible role of adenosine in mediating light and circadian regulation of retinomotor movements in teleost cone photoreceptors. Teleost cones elongate in the dark and contract in the light. In continuous darkness, the cones continue to elongate and contract at subjective dusk and dawn in response to circadian signals. We report here that exogenous adenosine triggers elongation (the dark/night movement) in isolated cone inner segment-cone outer segment preparations (CIS-COS) in vitro. Agonist/antagonist potency profiles indicate that adenosine's effect on cone movement is mediated by an A2-like adenosine receptor, which like other A2 receptors enhances adenylate cyclase activity. Although closest to that expected for A2 receptors, the antagonist potency profile for CIS-COS does not correspond exactly to any known A2 receptor subtype, suggesting that the cone receptor may be a novel A2 subtype. Our findings are consistent with previous reports that retinal adenosine levels are higher in the dark, and further suggest that adenosine could act as a neuromodulatory “dark signal” influencing photoreceptor metabolism and function in the fish retina.
A re-examination of the interaction of estradiol with target cell receptors.

Abstract Two intranuclear estradiol receptor complexes can be distinguished by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation of the immature rat uterus following either in vivo or in vitro administration of radiolabelled estradiol. Time course studies demonstrate that the earliest detectable complex sediments as a 4 S form whereas a 5 S form accumulates during prolonged exposure to hormone (> 10 min). Pulse chase experiments suggest that the 5 S complex arises from the lighter 4 S complex in a precursor-product manner. The properties of both the intranuclear 4 S and 5 S forms are shown to be those of authentic estrogen receptors. These observations are not in agreement with the generally held view that receptor 4 S to 5 S transformation occurs in the cytoplasm and is a necessary prerequisite to nuclear translocation.
The Effect of Acute Psychological Stress on QT Dispersion in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

A large body of evidence links acute psychological stress with the precipitation of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.1 This has been documented in the setting of natural disasters as well as in laboratory settings.1–8 Additional studies have confirmed that acute psychological stress can lower the threshold for induced ventricular arrhythmias and precipitates spontaneous arrhythmic events in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).9–11 The physiologic mechanisms by which these effects occur are not entirely clear. Psychological stress is associated with sympathetic nervous system activation which can induce transient myocardial ischemia in a significant proportion of the CAD population. 12–17 Adrenergic, stimulation alone, has the potential for altering the electrophysiologic properties of the myocardium and inducing inhomogeneous influences on myocardial repolarization.11, 18–21 However, it is unclear whether or not the pro-arrhythmic effects of mental stress are mediated via the development of myocardial ischemia. Indices of spatial heterogeneity of myocardial repolarization, such as the inter-lead variability of the QT interval (QT dispersion; QTd), predict susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.22–27 QT dispersion (QTd) is defined as the difference between the longest and the shortest QT interval on a 12 lead electrocardiogram (EKG).22 Very little is known about the effects of psychological stress on QTd. To date, only one study has evaluated these effects.28 The study reported that mental stress induced significant prolongation of QTd in patients with CAD but not in healthy volunteers, suggesting that this effect was mediated via the development of myocardial ischemia. However myocardial ischemia was not measured in this study. To further investigate these findings, we measured QTd during rest and mental stress. We also examined for the occurrence of mental stress-induced ischemia using myocardial perfusion imaging.
An analyst's pregnancy loss and its effects on treatment disruption and growth

Previous clinical literature has indicated some ways in which crises in the life of an analyst, such as pregnancy, illness, or death of a loved one, can affect and alter the analytic space. In this paper, the effects on treatment of my second‐trimester pregnancy difficulties and consequent pregnancy loss are explored. My experiences indicated that the experiences and reactions generated by this life crisis often provided the field in which the “knottiest”; analytic issues between patient and analyst were confronted. To demonstrate this point, clinical material at three different periods over a three‐year time span is presented. Two patients with negative reactions to my loss are discussed in detail. The early impact of my pregnancy difficulty on two other patients, for whom the crisis provided a new focal point in their treatment, is also discussed. Issues of self‐disclosure are interwoven throughout.
Conservation of Red Colobus and Their Habitats

A review of the conservation status of red colobus indicates that ≥38.9% of the taxa are threatened with extinction in the near future. Although no taxon of red colobus appears to have gone extinct, many of their populations have. The major threats are hunting and habitat loss and degradation, but in some cases intrinsic biotic factors, such as predator-prey imbalance, are leading to serious declines in populations. I propose a general framework for evaluating conservation problems and possible solutions, with an emphasis on distinguishing between proximate and ultimate variables and the time scales involved. In general, most viable populations of red colobus occur in well-protected forests; usually national parks. I proffer recommendations to improve the conservation status of the parks, which will benefit red colobus and most other tropical forest species.
Comparative study of global minimum energy conformations of hydrated peptides

A global optimization method is described for identifying the global minimum energy conformation, as well as lower and upper bounds on the global minimum conformer of solvated peptides. In considering the effects of hydration, two independent continuum-based solvation models are employed. The first method is based on the calculation of solvent-accessible surface areas, whereas the second method uses information on the solvent-accessible volume of hydration shells. The hydration effects predicted by the area- and volume-based models, using a variety of atomic solvation parameter (ASP) sets, are tested and compared by identifying global minimum energy structures of terminally blocked peptides and oligopeptides. Significant differences are observed, indicating that appropriate model selection is essential for accurately predicting hydrated peptide structures. Using this information, the applicability of these hydration models and ASP sets is discussed. ©1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Comput Chem 20: 636–654, 1999
Adaptive techniques for the MRAC, adaptive parameter identification, and on-line fault monitoring and accommodation for a class of positive real infinite dimensional systems

A theoretical framework of the model reference adaptive control design, adaptive parameter identification and automated fault detection is developed for a class of positive real infinite dimensional systems. Uncertain terms are treated as additive perturbations of the plant operator and the framework provides a unified treatment for model reference control, parameter estimation and fault detection and accommodation. For each design problem the well-posedness and stability of the proposed adaptive scheme are investigated. Extensions to the variable structure observer, to specific forms of the structured perturbation terms and to slowly time-varying systems are also considered within the proposed framework. Such results are summarized as they capitalize on the proposed well-posedness and stability results for the general cases. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Building vibrations and dynamic pavement loads induced by transit buses

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of bus suspension systems on building vibrations and dynamic pavement loads. Building vibrations and pavement loads induced by two instrumented buses having different characteristics were measured simultaneously under controlled field conditions. Field tests were performed at several vehicle speeds, normal and reduced tire pressures, and with roads having good surface condition as well as abrupt surface irregularities. Tests were carried out at two vibration complaint sites in Montreal. The level and frequency content of vibrations and loads induced by the two buses were evaluated and compared. The results show that the dynamic component of pavement loads induced by the two buses were significantly different but the difference in building vibration levels was not as significant.
Characteristics of Meat or Sausage Patties Using Pulses as Extenders

Meat patties were produced from either beef (20% fat) or pork (18% fat) and 23 different pulses. The pulses were blended with meat at 35, 42.5, and 50% ratios. The blends were formed into 113.4-g (4-oz.) meat patties or 56.7-g (2-oz.) pork sausage patties. Each patty was blast frozen, stored at −20°F (−29°C) in food-grade resealable freezer bags, and then baked in a 74°C oven for 15 minutes before testing for weight loss, diameter loss, color, and texture. The 50:50 ratio samples had the least amount of cooking loss but the greatest visible bean fraction. All fractions improved nutritional profile. Navy, light red kidney, and small red beans were found to be most beneficial/acceptable as partial meat substitutes.
Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration Versus Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Equations for Renal Function Evaluation in Patients Undergoing Partial Nephrectomy

Purpose: A novel equation, the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration, has been proposed to replace the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease for estimated glomerular filtration rate due to higher accuracy, particularly in the setting of normal renal function. We compared these equations in patients with 2 functioning kidneys undergoing partial nephrectomy.Materials and Methods: We assembled a cohort of 1,158 patients from 5 institutions who underwent partial nephrectomy between 1991 and 2009. Only subjects with 2 functioning kidneys were included in the study. The end points were baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate, last followup estimated glomerular filtration rate (3 to 18 months), absolute and percent change estimated glomerular filtration rate ([absolute change/baseline] × 100%), and proportion of newly developed chronic kidney disease stage III. The agreement between the equations was evaluated using Bland-Altman plots and the McNemar test for paired observations.Results: Mean b...
A standardized two-dimensional thin-layer chromatographic method for lichen products

Abstract Two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography is useful for microchemical studies on mixtures difficult to resolve by the standardized one-dimensional thin-layer chromatographic method now commonly used for lichen products. A modified two-dimensional technique uses the large body of standardized RF data already accumulated for these compounds. In addition, correlations of RF values with chemical structures permit tentative identifications of many trace constituents, including new natural products, resolved from microextracts by the two-dimensional method. The standardized two-dimensional procedure also allows more reliable comparisons of chromatograms and the determination of RF classes of components of complex mixtures. The method is illustrated for the orcinol-type depsides of two closely related species, Parmelia loxodes and P. verruculifera.
Discrimination of the quantitative ultralow-frequency ballistocardiogram in coronary heart disease.

Abstract 1. 1. A group of 20 normal subjects and 24 patients with coronary heart disease were studied on a head-foot ultralow-frequency ballistocardiograph in both a resting and postexercise condition. Measurements of features of their accurately calibrated ballistocardiograms were made. 2. 2. With the aid of automatic data processing methods, several of these measurements which showed significant differences between the normal and cardiac groups were identified. These measurements were combined in a discriminant analysis which classified 75 per cent of the whole group correctly. 3. 3. This figure appears to be somewhat better than that from other ballistocardiographic studies employing the more subjective waveform-reading technique. Analysis of the results suggests changes in exercise technique and record-measurement procedure which promise ultimately greater accuracy in discrimination. 4. 4. The study also showed that the best features for discriminating coronary heart disease were found in full inspiration, and that the accelaration slopes (“jerk”) in early systole were among the strongest features.
Sodium, potassium, and chloride fluxes in intercostal muscle from normal goats and goats with hereditary myotonia.

In isolated bundles of external intercostal muscle from normal goats and goats with hereditary myotonia the following were determined: concentrations and unidirectional fluxes of Na+, K+, and Cl-, extracellular volume, water content, fiber geometry, and core-conductor constants. No significant difference between the two groups of preparations was found with respect to distribution of fiber size, intracellular concentrations of Na+ or Cl-, fiber water, resting membrane potential, or overshoot of action potential. The intracellular Cl- concentration in both groups of preparations was 4 to 7 times that expected if Cl- were distributed passively between intracellular and extracellular water. The membrane permeability to K (PK) calculated from efflux data was (a) at 38°C, 0.365 x 10-6 cm sec-1 for normal and 0.492 x 10-6 for myotonic muscle, and (b) at 25°C, 0.219 x 10-6 for normal and 0.199 x 10-6 for myotonic muscle. From Cl- washout curves of normal muscle usually only three exponential functions could be extracted, but in every experiment with myotonic muscle there was an additional, intermediate component. From these data PPcl could be calculated; it was 0.413 x 10-6 cm sec-1 for myotonic fibers and was ⩾ 0.815 x 10-6 cm sec-1 for normal fibers. The resting membrane resistance of myotonic fibers was 4 to 6 times greater than that of normal fibers.
Bioethics and the sociology of trust: introduction to the theme.

We were honored when the editors of Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy invited us to edit a collection of articles on sociology and bioethics. Had this invitation been issued a decade ago, it is likely that we would have collected a number of articles that argued for the inclusion for sociology in the collection of disciplines that make up bioethics. Fortunately, we are now past the point where that argument must be made: for better or for worse, the social sciences are now part of the bioethical enterprise. Of course (as sociologists would predict) the place of social science in bioethics varies by cultural and social context. In the Netherlands and Belgium the creation of “empirical bioethics” has given social science an established voice in the bioethical conversation (Borry, Schotsmans and Dierickx, 2005; Van der Scheer and Widdershoven, 2004). In North America and the UK, social science methods are widely used in bioethics, but social scientists remain, to a certain extent, strangers to the field1 (Hedgecoe, 2004; De Vries, 2004).
How do children climb out of cribs

48 children between the ages of 16 and 32 mo. were observed climbing out of a crib. Each child was observed four times climbing out of the crib All the children were able to walk independently and were less than 35 in. tall. Two different climbing patterns were identified and associated with a location of the climbing event within the crib environment. Most children (90%) climb from a crib by first moving to a corner of the crib and then start climbing from the crib The remaining 10% of the children used a side-climbing pattern in at least one of the four observations. Crib safety standards have eliminated the most common catch-point, the cornerpost extension, from cribs. Since at least 10% of the children climbed over the stile of the crib rather than at the corner, any potential catch-points should be eliminated from the complete perimeter of the crib.
An improved algorithm of congruent matching cells (CMC) method for firearm evidence identifications

The Congruent Matching Cells (CMC) method was invented at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for firearm evidence identifications. The CMC method divides the measured image of a surface area, such as a breech face impression from a fired cartridge case, into small correlation cells and uses four identification parameters to identify correlated cell pairs originating from the same firearm. The CMC method was validated by identification tests using both 3D topography images and optical images captured from breech face impressions of 40 cartridge cases fired from a pistol with 10 consecutively manufactured slides. In this paper, we discuss the processing of the cell correlations and propose an improved algorithm of the CMC method which takes advantage of the cell correlations at a common initial phase angle and combines the forward and backward correlations to improve the identification capability. The improved algorithm is tested by 780 pairwise correlations using the same optical images and 3D topography images as the initial validation.
The role of academic reference librarians concerning government publications; with special emphasis given to municipal publications

Abstract This article places the role of academic reference librarians concerning government publications in overall perspective and emphasizes their need to work with those governmental publications having general reference value. Emphasis is given to municipal publications because this paper was presented as a speech before the GODORT session on “Local Documents and Public Access - Whose Responsibility.”
US Social Geography, alive and well?

This work was authored as part of the Contributor's official duties as an Employee of the United States Government and is therefore a work of the United States Government. In accordance with 17 U.S...
The sulfur cycle in a permanently meromictic haloalkaline lake

Soap Lake is a haloalkaline lake located in central Washington. This lake is a remnant of the Missoula flood events that created the landscape of western Montana, the southeastern portion of Washington state, and much of Oregon. It is 15,000 - 20,000 years old, and has maintained a stable meromixis for the last 10,000 years. This carbonate lake is characterized by a brackish mixolimnion, and a monimolimnion with a salinity of ~14%. The pH of both layers of the lake is approximately 10. Both layers also have a high concentration of dissolved sulfate, with the mineral mirabilite (Na 2 SO 4 •10H 2 O) found in the monimolimnion sediments. Sulfide concentrations in the monimolimnion exceed 100 mM. As part of the mission of the NSF Soap Lake Microbial Observatory, microorganisms involved in the sulfur cycle in this lake were studied in terms of their diversity and function. High rates of sulfate reduction were measured in both layers of the lake, with new species of sulfate-reducing bacteria seen in both areas. A particularly novel psychrophilic sulfur oxidizer was isolated from the monimolimnion. This organism has the ability to induce the formation of mirabilite, which was assumed to be an abiotically deposited evaporite mineral. This is the first evidence for a biogenic origin of this mineral. This leads to the possibility that related sulfate minerals, such as those reported on the Mars surface, may have a biogenic origin.
Tennessee to Texas: Tracing the Evolution Controversy in Public Education

Abstract Darwin's Theory of Evolution has stirred controversy since its inception. Public schools in the United States, pressed by special interest groups on both sides of the controversy, have struggled with how best to teach the theory, if at all. Court cases have dealt with whether states can ban the teaching of evolutionary theory, whether Creationism may be taught alongside evolution, and whether disclaimers may be read before the teaching of evolution in science classes. The authors, through the examination of landmark court decisions, trace the origins of the controversy from its beginning to the related issue of science textbook adoption in Texas.
Trailblazer Barbara Allen-Diaz First Woman to Receive SRM Renner Award

On the Ground When Barbara Allen-Diaz accepted the 2015 Frederic G. Renner Award at the annual Society of Range Management meeting on February 3, 2015, she made history. In the 43 years since the award was established, Allen-Diaz is the first woman to receive this honor, the most prestigious the Society bestows on its members.
Miscoding Properties of Model Estrogen−DNA Adducts in Reactions Catalyzed by Mammalian and Escherichia coli DNA Polymerases†,‡

The miscoding properties of the model estrogen-derived DNA adducts, N2-[3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-6-yl]-2‘-deoxyguanosine (dG-N2-3MeE) and N6-[3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-6-yl]-2‘-deoxyadenosine (dA-N6-3MeE), have been explored, using an in vitro experimental system to quantify base substitutions and deletions. Site-specifically modified oligodeoxynucleotides containing a single dG-N2-3MeE or dA-N6-3MeE were prepared postsynthetically and used as templates in primer extension reactions catalyzed by Escherichia coli and mammalian DNA polymerases. When the 3‘ → 5‘ exonuclease free (exo-) Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase I was used, dG-N2-3MeE promoted mostly one- and two-base deletions, along with small amounts of incorporation of dAMP, dGMP, and dCMP opposite the lesion. dA-N6-3MeE promoted the incorporation of dTMP opposite the lesion as well as two-base deletions, accompanied by the incorporation of dAMP. Using pol α, primer extension reactions were blocked at dG-N2-3MeE; however, dA-N6-3MeE pro...