cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Micrometastases + Math = Model of Breast Cancer Dormancy

Breast cancer survivors can never really relax, because their malignancies can recur decades after a patient is diagnosed. Indeed, breast cancer displays a striking ability to remain dormant for years after surgery with metastases at distant locations. Tumor cells likely are released from the main
Feature-aided tracking of moving ground vehicles

Airborne radars tasked with tracking moving targets face the challenge of surveillance over large geographic areas where military vehicles will be interspersed with civilian traffic. There is a major need to develop robust, efficient, and reliable identification and tracking techniques to identify selected targets, and to maintain tracks for selected, critical targets, in dense target environments. Traditionally, tracking and identification have been considered separately - one may identify a target, and then track it kinematically to sustain the identification. The difficulty with separate identification and tracking is that neither is sufficient by itself to satisfy the demands of the other. Identification techniques applied to moving targets require some degree of evidence accrual, which requires the kinematic tracker to have a high degree of fidelity. Conversely, kinematic association could be aided considerably with high confidence single-look identification, but high confidence identification only builds up with several looks. What is needed is to incorporate the distinctive target signature information into the tracker, so that identification and tracking, or signature comparison and tracking, perform together as a unit. Kinematic moving target indication (MTI) trackers receive reports in the form of ground coordinates and Doppler (range rate) and attempt to maintain track of the moving targets by associating the reports to target tracks. In situations where different targets exhibit similar kinematics, the association logic used for track-report association may not yield the correct pairings. In such complex and challenging environments, the additional information arising from distinctive target signatures can be used to aid the tracking algorithms. The approach to moving target identification and feature-aided tracking (FAT) described here combines accumulated target classification information, obtained from HRR, with kinematic association scores to yield improved classification and improved association. When the target under track is one of a set for which classification templates are available, then the association between the reports and tracks can be aided by the similarity in identification between the report and track. When such information is not available, and therefore classification is not performed, then the association is aided by the similarity in radar signature between the report and track. In this paper, we will describe the basics of moving target classification and signature comparison. We will describe how this information may be incorporated into kinematic tracking.
Astrocytes regulate amino acid receptor current densities in embryonic rat hippocampal neurons

Embryonic rat hippocampal neurons were cultured in a serum-free defined medium (MEM/N3) either directly on poly-D-lysine (PDL) or on a confluent monolayer of postnatal cortical astrocytes, C6 glioma cells, or Rat2 fibroblasts. Neurons on PDL were grown in MEM/N3 or in MEM/N3 conditioned for 24 h by astrocytes or C6 cells. Membrane capacitance (Cm) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-, glycine-, kainate-, and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-induced currents were quantified using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. Cm as well as the amplitude and the density of these currents in neurons cultured on astrocytes were significantly greater than those in neurons grown on PDL after 24 and 48 h. C6 cells mimicked astrocytes in promoting Cm and GABA-, glycine-, and NMDA-evoked, but not kainate-evoked, currents. Cm and currents in neurons grown on Rat2 cells were comparable to those in neurons on PDL. Astrocytes maintained in culture for 3 months were noticeably less effective than freshly prepared ones just grown to confluence. Suppression of spontaneous cytoplasmic Ca2+ (Cac2+) elevations in astrocytes by 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy) ehane-N, N, N, N-tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA-AM) loaded intracellularly blocked the observed modulatory effects. Medium conditioned by either astrocytes or C6 cells mimicked the effects of direct coculture of neurons on these cells in promoting Cm and amino acid-evoked currents. Inclusion of antagonists at GABA and glutamate receptors in coculture experiments blocked the observed effects. Thus, diffusible substances synthesized and/or secreted by astrocytes in a Cac2+-dependent manner can regulate neuronal growth and aminoacid receptor function, and these effects may involve neuronal GABA and glutamate receptors. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Neurobiol 33: 848–864, 1997
Steam Generator Replacement and Power Uprating on Tihange 2 Nuclear Plant: Safety Study Analyses

The Tihange2 900 MWe 3-L PWR NPP, operated by the Belgian utility Electrabel, was first commissioned in 1982 with a design core power of 2775 MWth. Following an initial core power uprating by 4,5% in 1995, Electrabel has since replaced the Steam Generators which has allowed a further core power increase by roughly 5% (total 10%) in 2001. For both of each projects, licensing and implementation studies were successfully performed by Tractebel Energy Engineering and Framatome ANP. The demanding new operating conditions required a complete review of the plant design basis for which advanced methods were applied and licensed through a continuous process of discussions with the client and the Belgian Safety Authorities AVN. The licensing process required flexibility in the methods application in order to meet the specific requirements of the S.A., which was achieved within the time schedule and without jeopardising the technical objectives of the utility.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Shell mass, thickness and density of avian eggs derived from the tables of Schönwetter

Presented are regression equations of shell thickness and shell mass as a function of egg mass for non-passerine (n=3217) and passerine species (n=3929) taken from the tables ofSchonwetter. These regressions reveal many species of the order Galliformes that exhibit unusually thick shells and have a relative shell mass which can exceed 20% of their egg mass. Shell density (g/cm3) was calculated for all eggs and their frequency distribution plotted. Mean values for non-passerine and passerine eggs are 2.02 and 2.05 g/cm3, respectively. The breaking strength of eggs as related to shell thickness is discussed. The regressions of exoskeletal, endoskeletal, and eggshell mass on body or egg mass are all shown to have the same slope.
Numerical Simulation of Thermal Stress Fields in Thermoplastics in a Pulsed Laser Welding Process

A numerical simulation code is developed and used to derive relationships between the incident laser radiation, the thermal stress field, and the size and shape of the heat affected (HAZ) and melt zones for a pulsed laser transmission welding process. The material used in the investigation is a high density polyethylene thermal plastic. The numerical model uses the Fourier heat conduction thermal model and the welding process involves the lap welding of two thin layers of thermoplastic films with the welding conditions of a transparent material over a semi-transparent or opaque material. The Fourier model is valid due to the high thermal pulse velocity through the material. The results are compared to the published data on thermoplastic welding criteria and the legitimacy of these criteria are discussed.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Pseudolysogeny of Azotobacter phages

Abstract The establishment of a pseudolysogenic state accompanied by a phenotypic conversion in Azotobacter vinelandii strain O by phages A14, A21, A31, and A41 has been identified. Host cells can be recovered from the pseudolysogens by cultivation in phage-specific antiserum. Pseudolysogens continually give rise at a low rate to phage as a result of the occasional initiation of a lytic burst. As a result of the establishment of the pseudolysogenic state the host cells lose their polysaccharide coat, become flagellated and motile and acquire a yellow pigmented appearance. The four phages, although they differ serologically and molecularly, give rise to converted states that are indistinguishable except by the identification of the phage that is produced by it. On repeated subculturing each of the pseudolysogens will give rise to a stable or permanently converted cell that has the phenotype of the pseudolysogen, but from which it is no longer possible to obtain either host cells or phage.
Responses of production and storage walnut pests to Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal crystal protein fragments

Abstract Recent advances in genetic engineering have provided the opportunity to induce walnut plants to produce Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner insecticidal crystal protein fragments (ICPFs) for insect control. We studied the effects of two ICPFs CryIA(b) and CrylA(c) previously shown to be encoded by the cryIA (b) and cryIA (c) genes in the B. thuringiensis strains HD-1 and HD-73, respectively. The lethal effects on larvae of codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella (Walker), and the major postharvest pest Indianmeal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hubner), were investigated. Both proteins were toxic to the three species tested. Indianmeal moth larvae were the most susceptible and navel orangeworm the least; CryIA(b) was generally more toxic to navel orangeworm. Similar relationships resulted when ICPFs were incorporated into the diet. Both ICPFs caused decreased rate of development of navel orangeworm. Effects on pupal weight occurred only at the highest concentration (100 ng/cm 2 ). Neither ICPF affected frequency of mating or fecundity. In addition to the lethal effects, the extended development times observed could have considerable effects on the population dynamics of the navel orangeworm and possibly other species.
Craniopharyngiomas in children: surgical experience at Children’s Memorial Hospital

Craniopharyngioma during childhood poses difficulty in management because of the high incidence of surgical complications and treatment failure. In order to identify less detrimental and more effective treatment, a personal series of craniopharyngioma was reviewed in regard to various clinical factors, patient factors (age and sex), tumor factors (location and extension, relationship with chiasm, and hydrocephalus), and therapeutic modes [extent of resection and radiation therapy (RT)]. Fifty-four childhood craniopharyngiomas treated from 1984 to 2003 were reviewed. Preoperative neuroimaging studies were classified depending upon tumor location and extension. In this series of 54 patients, 43 had total tumor resection and 11 had subtotal resection. Of the total resection group, ten showed evidence of residual tumor on postoperative neuroimaging studies. Following the initial resection, 46 did not have RT whereas 8 with subtotal resection received RT. There were no surgical deaths. Postoperative complications included pseudoaneurysm in 1, hemiparesis in 3, severe obesity in 5, panhypopituitarism in 50, and worsening of visual function in 7. During follow-up ranging from 12 months to 21 years, 24 patients had recurrence. Of the 33 patients with radiographic total resection, 9 (27.3%) had recurrence. Among the patients with total resection but radiographic residual and those with subtotal resection, the craniopharyngioma recurred in 90% and 100%, respectively. Three (37.5%) of eight patients with subtotal resection with RT had recurrence. Overall recurrence-free survival was 62% at 5 years and 49% at 10 years. The sex and age, location and extension of the tumor, nature of the optic chiasm, and hydrocephalus did not influence survival with statistical significance. However, the extent of surgical resection and use of RT showed significant differences for survival. Patients with total resection had a recurrence-free survival rate of 83% and 70% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Patients with subtotal resection with RT had 71% at 5 years and 36% at 10 years. Patients who had subtotal resection or radiographically residual tumor without RT had a recurrence-free survival rate of only 9%. Among 22 patients whose recurrent tumor was treated with RT, a second recurrence-free survival rate was 90% at 5 years. Total resection provided the best outcome. However, recurrence rates and surgical complications remained high following radical tumor resection. RT was effective for recurrent tumors and should be considered being the primary treatment for recurrences or difficult tumors, which are not amenable to total resections.
Effects of 5-fluorouracil on the formation of modified nucleosides in yeast transfer RNA.

Abstract Yeast cells grown in the presence of the drug FUra synthesize RNA in which Urd is partially replaced by FUrd. Transfer RNAs in which 1.5–50% of the Urd has been replaced by FUrd have been isolated and their base compositions measured to determine the effect of FUrd incorporation on posttranscriptional nucleoside modification. This replacement results in an extensive reduction in the amounts of Thd, H56Urd and Ψrd found in mature tRNA. Quantitatively, the reduction of Ψrd ⩾ Thd ⪢ H56Urd. The losses of Ψrd, Thd and H56Urd are greater than can be accounted for by the stoichiometry of FUrd incorporation. The formation of 5-MeCyd is not affected by the drug, whereas the methylated purines show substoichiometric losses in FUrd-containing tRNAs. In Escherichia coli, we have not observed any effects of FUra on the methylated purine content, although the effects on Ψrd, Thd and H56Urd are similar. These findings indicate that (a) in both pro- and eukaryotic systems the enzymes responsible for Ψrd, Thd and H56Urd formation are affected by FUra treatment in a similar manner; (b) prokaryotic purine methylases may be more tolerant of structural aberrations resulting from FUrd incorporation than eukaryotic methylases and (c) different methylases within one system show different sensitivities as shown by those responsible for 1-MeAdo and 5-MeCyd formation.
Transmastoid approach to temporal bone cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

Abstract Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate various presentations and treatment options for spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage originating in the temporal bone. Materials and Methods Clinical data and imaging results for 18 ears (15 patients) presenting with spontaneous CSF leakage originating in the temporal bone were reviewed. Average follow-up period was 13.5 months. The main outcome measure was presence of persistent CSF leak postoperatively. A standard postauricular mastoidectomy was performed. Results Fifteen patients diagnosed with spontaneous CSF leakage over an 8-year period including 3 treated for bilateral disease were included in the study. The age ranged between 33 and 83 years. Presenting symptoms included serous otitis media (44%), persistent otorrhea after tympanostomy tube placement (28%), and meningitis (28%). Preoperative diagnosis was made using imaging studies and was substantiated by observation of CSF leakage and dural herniation intraoperatively. Treatment was eustachian tube plugging (5%), mastoidectomy with fat obliteration (61%), middle fossa approach with extradural (17%), intradural repair (5%), or combined middle fossa and transmastoid (TM) approach (11%). Successful treatment was obtained in 17 of the 18 cases. The last 9 patients in the series underwent TM approach alone for repair with no treatment failures. Conclusions Repair of defects in tegmen mastoideum and posterior fossa can be successfully achieved on an outpatient basis without regard to size and multitude of defects via TM approach. This approach obviates the need for a craniotomy or lumbar drain.
Improving the reliability of heuristic multiple fault diagnosis via the EC-based Genetic Algorithm

Engineered Conditioning (EC) is a Genetic Algorithm operator that works together with the typical genetic algorithm operators: mate selection, crossover, and mutation, in order to improve convergence toward an optimal multiple fault diagnosis. When incorporated within a typical genetic algorithm, the resulting hybrid scheme produces improved reliability by exploiting the global nature of the genetic algorithm as well as “local” improvement capabilities of the Engineered Conditioning operator.
Developmental discord among markers for cholinergic differentiation: in vitro time courses for early expression and responses to skeletal muscle extract.

Abstract The effects of skeletal muscle extract on the development of CAT, ACh synthesis, high affinity choline uptake, and AChE activities were studied in dissociated ventral spinal cord cultures prepared from 14-day gestational rat embryos. In the absence of muscle extract, the development of CAT and AChE follow biphasic time courses in which they show initial declines followed by periods of steadily increasing activity. In contrast, ACh synthesis and high affinity choline uptake both gradually increase throughout the entire culture period. The presence of muscle extract both prevents the initial decline of CAT and AChE as well as stimulates the rates of development of all four cholinergic markers; however, the degrees and time courses of stimulation differ markedly. The effects of muscle extract on the kinetic and pharmacological properties of ACh synthesis and choline uptake in rat ventral cord cultures were also investigated. Cells treated with muscle extract for 2 days express both high affinity (Km = 1.6 μM) and low affinity (Km = 22 μM) choline uptake mechanisms. Control cells, on the other hand, express only low affinity uptake at this stage but develop a high affinity uptake mechanism by Day 7. During this time both ACh synthesis and high affinity choline uptake become increasingly sensitive to inhibition by hemicholinium-3. These results demonstrate that skeletal muscle factors enhance the development of cholinergic properties in embryonic spinal cord cultures. However, differences in sensitivity to muscle extract concentration, time courses of development, and degrees of stimulation suggest that these changes may involve distinct cellular mechanisms which are differentially affected by skeletal muscle factors.
Statistical Test to Assess Rank-Order Imaging Studies

Abstract Rationale and Objectives Rank-order experiments often provide a reasonable method of determining whether a large-scale receiver operating characteristic study can be justified. The authors' purpose was to formalize a proposed method for analyzing rank-order imaging experiments and provide methods that can be used in determining sample sizes for both cases and raters. Materials and Methods Simulations were conducted to determine the adequacy of the normal approximation of a statistic used to test the null hypothesis of random ordering. For a multireader experiment, formulas are presented and guidelines are provided to enable investigators to determine the number of required readers (raters) and cases for a specific study. Results When there are at least five ordered images per case, 10 cases are sufficient to test a random rank order. When there are only three or four images for a case, 20 cases are required. The authors constructed tables of statistical power for selected numbers of ordered images, numbers of cases, and degrees of trend, and they also provide an approximation for use in situations that are not tabled. Conclusion The statistical methods for analyzing rank-order experiments and estimating sample sizes for study planning are relatively simple to implement. The derived formulas for sample size estimation, when applied to typical imaging experiments, indicate that modest numbers of cases and readers are required for rank-order studies.
A new melampolide from Sigesbeckia orientalis

Abstract Isolation and structure determination of orientalide, a new melampolide closely related to the acanthospermals, from Sigesbeckia orientalis is reported.
Marketing Places Through First‐Person Stories—an Analysis of Pennsylvania Roadtripper Blog

Narrative as digital word‐of‐mouth has the potential to be an effective way to market tourist destinations. Using narrative structure analysis, this study identifies key marketing elements from tourists' blogs that include characterization, space categorization, and overall product and experience evaluation. The introduction of a blog writer as a personal character allows blog readers to access the picture of lived identities created through actions, attitudes, and values. Space categorization allows blog readers to have a cognitive construction of hypothetical travel scenarios including “rehearsals” of likely future travels. The results of this study demonstrate substantial potential for destination marketing organizations to facilitate and manage the interactive nature of storytelling as part of their marketing efforts.
Criteria for the evaluation of treatment planning systems

Radiation treatment planning systems (RTPS) are evolving on a rapid and continual basis. After the evaluation of several commercial systems, we have developed a list of features we consider desirable in a product. The goal in the compilation of these criteria was a comprehensive worksheet which categorized the characteristics of RTPS into hardware (computer and peripheral devices), 2-D planning tools, 3-D planning tools, irregular field planning tools, and brachytherapy planning. With these distinctions, one can evaluate a system conforming to the specific planning needs, e.g., conformal therapy, dynamic therapy capabilities, or optimized remote afterloading brachytherapy, of a department. The rationales of the special requirements are provided for justification.
Measurement of the eddy diffusion term in chromatographic columns. I. Application to the first generation of 4.6mm I.D. monolithic columns.

Abstract The corrected heights equivalent to a theoretical plate (HETP) of three 4.6 mm I.D. monolithic Onyx-C18 columns (Onyx, Phenomenex, Torrance, CA) of different lengths (2.5, 5, and 10 cm) are reported for retained (toluene, naphthalene) and non-retained (uracil, caffeine) small molecules. The moments of the peak profiles were measured according to the accurate numerical integration method. Correction for the extra-column contributions was systematically applied. The peak parking method was used in order to measure the bulk diffusion coefficients of the sample molecules, their longitudinal diffusion terms, and the eddy diffusion term of the three monolithic columns. The experimental results demonstrate that the maximum efficiency was 60 000 plates/m for retained compounds. The column length has a large impact on the plate height of non-retained species. These observations were unambiguously explained by a large trans-column eddy diffusion term in the van Deemter HETP equation. This large trans-rod eddy diffusion term is due to the combination of a large trans-rod velocity bias (≃3%), a small radial dispersion coefficient in silica monolithic columns, and a poorly designed distribution and collection of the sample streamlets at the inlet and outlet of the monolithic rod. Improving the performance of large I.D. monolithic columns will require (1) a detailed knowledge of the actual flow distribution across and along these monolithic rod and (2) the design of appropriate inlet and outlet distributors designed to minimize the nefarious impact of the radial flow heterogeneity on band broadening.
Differential effects of the 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate and protein kinase C pathways on the response of isolated rat osteoclasts to calcitonin.

Calcitonin (CT) activates both the cAMP and the protein kinase C (PKC) pathways in the kidney cell line LLC-PK1. Although CT also activates cAMP in osteoclasts, its effects on PKC in this cell type are unknown. In order to determine whether the response of osteoclasts to CT also involves the PKC pathway, the effects of activators and inhibitors of PKC on bone resorption and cell surface area were analyzed in isolated rat osteoclasts. As expected, CT inhibited in a dose-dependent manner bone resorption by rat osteoclasts cultured for 24 h on devitalized bovine bone slices and this effect could be mimicked by cAMP. The inhibitory effect of CT could however also be mimicked by phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) and blocked by the PKC inhibitor sphingosine, as well as by the less specific inhibitors H7 and H8, none of which had detectable effects in the absence of CT. No changes in the number of attached osteoclasts were observed under any of these conditions. These results indicate that CT activates PKC in oste...
SELECTIVE PULMONARY VASODILATATION IMPROVES LEFT VENTRICULAR-RIGHT VENTRICULAR COUPLING IN PATIENTS WITH SIGNIFICANT PULMONARY VALVE REGURGITATION

Repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and pulmonary valvotomy for pulmonary stenosis (PS) often results in progressive pulmonary insufficiency (PI) and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. The latter process has also been shown to hinder left ventricular (LV) function. We sought to examine whether
Escape from adaptive conflict after duplication in an anthocyanin pathway gene

Gene duplications have been recognized as an important source of evolutionary innovation and adaptation since at least Haldane, and their varying fates may partly explain the vast disparity in observed genome sizes. The expected fates of most gene duplications involve primarily non-adaptive substitutions leading to either non-functionalization of one duplicate copy or subfunctionalization, neither of which yields novel function. A significant evolutionary problem is thus elucidating the mechanisms of adaptive evolutionary change leading to evolutionary novelty. Currently, the most widely recognized adaptive process involving gene duplication is neo-functionalization (NEO-F), in which one copy undergoes directional selection to perform a novel function after duplication. An alternative, but understudied, adaptive fate that has been proposed is escape from adaptive conflict (EAC), in which a single-copy gene is selected to perform a novel function while maintaining its ancestral function. This gene is constrained from improving either novel or ancestral function because of detrimental pleiotropic effects on the other function. After duplication, one copy is free to improve novel function, whereas the other is selected to improve ancestral function. Here we first present two criteria that can be used to distinguish NEO-F from EAC. Using both tests for positive selection and assays of enzyme function, we then demonstrate that adaptive evolutionary change in a duplicated gene of the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway in morning glories (Ipomoea) is best interpreted as EAC. Finally, we argue that this phenomenon likely occurs more often than has been previously believed and may thus represent an important mechanism in generating evolutionary novelty.
The plasma membrane permease PfNT1 is essential for purine salvage in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum

The human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum relies on the acquisition of host purines for its survival within human erythrocytes. Purine salvage by the parasite requires specialized transporters at the parasite plasma membrane (PPM), but the exact mechanism of purine entry into the infected erythrocyte, and the primary purine source used by the parasite, remain unknown. Here, we report that transgenic parasites lacking the PPM transporter PfNT1 (P. falciparum nucleoside transporter 1) are auxotrophic for hypoxanthine, inosine, and adenosine under physiological conditions and are viable only if these normally essential nutrients are provided at excess concentrations. Transport measurements across the PPM revealed a severe reduction in hypoxanthine uptake in the knockout, whereas adenosine and inosine transport were only partially affected. These data provide compelling evidence for a sequential pathway for exogenous purine conversion into hypoxanthine using host enzymes followed by PfNT1-mediated transport into the parasite. The phenotype of the conditionally lethal mutant establishes PfNT1 as a critical component of purine salvage in P. falciparum and validates PfNT1 as a potential therapeutic target.
Early prediction of NBTI effects using RTL source code analysis

In present day technology, the design of reliable systems must factor in temporal degradation due to aging effects such as Negative Bias Temperature Instability (NBTI). In this paper, we present a methodology to estimate delay degradation early at the Register Transfer Level (RTL). We statically analyze the RTL source code to determine signal correlations. We then determine probability distributions of RTL signals formally by using probabilistic model checking. Finally, we propagate these signal probabilities through delay macromodels and estimate the delay degradation. We demonstrate our methodology on several benchmarks RTL designs. We estimate the degradation with <10% error and up to 18.2× speedup in runtime as compared to estimation using gate-level simulations.
Pitfalls of gestational age reassignment in evaluation of low maternal serum α-fetoprotein levels

Accurate interpretation of low maternal serum a-fetoprotein levels depends on confirmation of gestational age by ultrasound. However, revision of gestational age estimations based solely on sonographic fetal biometry may result in excluding the fetus with trisomy from further diagnostic study.
Limited surgery and radiotherapy for early breast cancer

Over the past five years, there has been increasing support for the use of conservative surgery combined with radiotherapy as primary treatment for women with early breast cancer. This support is based on published reports from both retrospective studies,1 2 3 4 5 which have demonstrated that this approach can provide high levels of local tumor control and good cosmetic results, and prospective randomized clinical trials,6 , 7 which have indicated that the outcome of this approach is comparable to that obtained with mastectomy. Although there is general agreement regarding the conceptual aspects of this approach, there has been little consensus regarding the technical details of . . .
POLICY EVALUATION AND PROGRAM TERMINATION

One example of treating the policy process as an integrated process is the relationship between policy evaluation and policy termination. Policy and program terminations are seen as having three rationales: cost reductions, programmatic inefficiencies, and political ideology. The third appears to be the most important. Even so, formal program evaluation is increasingly critical to the termination exercise. This has important policy implications for both the professional evaluation community and those who have program termination responsibilities.
Coping mediates relationships between reinforcement sensitivity and symptoms of psychopathology

Abstract Limited research has evaluated whether coping strategies mediate the relationships between reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) and symptoms of psychopathology. Undergraduates ( n = 293) completed questionnaires assessing RST, coping, and symptoms of psychopathology. Consistent with our hypotheses, bootstrapping analyses indicated that emotion- and avoidance-focused coping mediated the relationship between high Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) and depression, anxiety, and worry. Less problem-focused coping mediated the relationship between low Behavioral Approach System (BAS) and depression. Avoidance-focused coping mediated the effects of high BIS on drug and alcohol use whereas high BAS directly predicted alcohol and drug use. Unexpectedly, emotion-focused coping mediated the relationship between BAS and anxiety and worry. These results provide support for the hypothesis that personality variables are associated with psychopathology partially through coping.
Competing for tots: operating objectives and characteristics of for-profit and not-for-profit child care centres in the Pacific Northwest

Child care services are provided by profit-oriented businesses, not-forprofit agencies and governmental units. This paper compares goal priorities and operating characteristics of not-for-profit and for-profit child care centres in parts of Canada and the United States. Directors of 292 Pacific Northwest centres responded to a survey about their financial and non-financial operating objectives.
Fusion competence of phosphatidylserine-containing liposomes quantitatively measured by a fluorescence resonance energy transfer assay

Abstract A sensitive, quantitative assay has been developed which measures the extent of liposome fusion by monitoring fluorescence resonance energy transfer between two lipid analogs originally in separate membranes. This transfer of photon energy from donor to acceptor molecules occurs only if both probes are in the same membrane. Energy transfer is measured as quenching of the donor probe's fluorescence emission. The extent of fusion was estimated by comparing the quenching due to the fusion protocol with the maximum quenching from “mock-fused” vesicles. This assay was used to investigate the effects of calcium ion concentration, calcium ion permeability, and lipid composition on fusion competence. The calcium concentration threshold and extent of fusion was a function of lipid composition. At a given molar percentage of phosphatidylserine, increasing the phosphatidylcholine content raised the threshold. The extent of fusion decreased when the molar percentage of phosphatidylserine was decreased. The inclusion of either cholesterol or phosphatidylethanolamine facilitated fusion competence, but the latter was more effective. Increasing the calcium ion permeability by adding the ionophore X-537a moderately enhanced the extent of fusion in most cases, although it never appreciably affected the threshold. X-537a did not enhance fusion in the presence of unsaturated phosphatidylethanolamine. Liposomes containing unsaturated phosphatidylethanolamine had an optimum calcium ion concentration for fusion in the mid-range of the divalent cation concentrations. We conclude that it is possible for large, unilamellar vesicles with near physiological molar percentages of phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylethanolamine to undergo divalent cation-induced fusion at calcium ion concentrations in the millimolar range. This finding provides a useful model system for investigating mechanisms of such phenomena as exocytosis and cell-cell fusion.
The relationship between the timing of a palliative care consult and utilization outcomes for ventilator-assisted intensive care unit patients

OBJECTIVE Given the great number of chronic care patients facing the end of life and the challenges of critical care delivery, there has been emerging evidence supporting the benefit of palliative care in the intensive care unit (ICU). We studied the relationship between the timing of a palliative care consult (PCC) and two utilization outcomes - length of stay (LOS) and pharmacy costs - in ventilator-assisted ICU patients. METHOD A retrospective chart review was conducted (N = 90). Summed pharmacy costs were compared using a paired t test before and after PCC. Spearman correlations were performed between days to PCC and ICU LOS, ventilator days, and days to death following ventilator discontinuation. RESULTS Number of days from admission to PCC was correlated with total days on ventilator (ρ = 0.685, p < 0.0001) and total ICU LOS (ρ = 0.654, p < 0.0001). Number of days to PCC was correlated with pre-PCC total medication costs (ρ = 0.539, p < 0.0001). Median medication costs were significantly reduced after the PCC (p < 0.0001), from $230.96 to 30.62. Median medication costs decreased for all categories except for analgesics, antiemetics, and opioids. The number of patients receiving opioid infusion increased (37 vs. 90%) after PCC (p < 0.0001). SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Earlier timing for PCC in the ICU is associated with a lower LOS through quicker mechanical ventilation (MV) withdrawal, presenting a unique opportunity to both decrease costs and improve patient care.
A new battery charger/discharger converter

a new optimum topology dc-todc switching converter is extended to provide bidirectional current flow. The resulting two-quadrant converter can be employed to eliminate the discontinuous curent mode in normal unidirectional applications, but is especially suited for spacecraft battery conditioning as a charge-discharge regulator in place of the conventional separate converters. Implementation of the control features and the battery charge current and voltage limits are discussed.
Effects of opiate antagonists and putative mu- and kappa-agonists on milk intake in rat and squirrel monkey

Abstract The effects of a number of relatively pure opiate antagonists (naloxone, naltrexone, diprenorphine), and putative mu- (morphine, etrophine) and kappa- (ketocyclazocine, ethylketocyclazocine) receptor agonists on sweetened condensed milk intake were examined over a broad range of doses in non-deprived rats and squirrel monkeys. The antagonists consistently decreased milk intake in both the rat and squirrel monkey. There were, however, species differences: diprenorphine was 30 times more potent than either naloxone or naltrexone in the squirrel monkey, but was of similar potency in the rat. The effects of the opiate agonists were more variable than those of the antagonists. In both species, all agonists decreased milk intake at high doses that also produced behavioral depression. Significant increases in drinking were produced only by low doses of ketocyclazocine and ethylketocyclazocine in the rat. The suppression of milk intake by the antagonists supports a modulatory role of opiate receptors in the control of drinking behavior, however, the effects of the agonists on drinking are less easily interpreted within this conceptual framework.
RENEWABLE ENERGIES AND ENERGY CONSERVATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR BUILDINGS IN SOUTHERN EUROPE

The characteristics of the building's energy consumption in Southern Europe are analysed. The energy potential of solar energy for heating and lighting purposes as well as the potential of passive ...
Estimating the potential of taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages to reduce consumption and generate revenue

Abstract Objective Beverage taxes came into light with increasing concerns about obesity, particularly among youth. Sugar-sweetened beverages have become a target of anti-obesity initiatives with increasing evidence of their link to obesity. Our paper offers a method for estimating revenues from an excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages that governments of various levels could direct towards obesity prevention. Model We construct a model projecting beverage consumption and tax revenues based on best available data on regional beverage consumption, historic trends and recent estimates of the price elasticity of sugar-sweetened beverage demand. Results The public health impact of beverage taxes could be substantial. An estimated 24% reduction in sugar-sweetened beverage consumption from a penny-per-ounce sugar-sweetened beverage tax could reduce daily per capita caloric intake from sugar-sweetened beverages from the current 190–200 cal to 145–150 cal, if there is no substitution to other caloric beverages or food. A national penny-per-ounce tax on sugar-sweetened beverages could generate new tax revenue of $79 billion over 2010–2015. Conclusion A modest tax on sugar-sweetened beverages could both raise significant revenues and improve public health by reducing obesity. To the extent that at least some of the tax revenues get invested in obesity prevention programs, the public health benefits could be even more pronounced.
The least squares type estimation of the parameters in the power hazard function

The power hazard function is defined by h(t)=at^k. In this investigation, we use the least squares type estimation to estimate the parameter a when k is known, the parameter k when a is known and to estimate the parameters a and k. Also, we evaluated the mean square errors of these estimators.
INTIMACY, PASSION, AND COMMITMENT IN YOUNG ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS: SUCCESSFULLY MEASURING THE TRIANGULAR THEORY OF LOVE

The previous tests of the Triangular Theory of Love have proven problematic, specifically centered on measurement of the three components of Intimacy, Passion, and Commitment. Factor analysis of a new set of measures for 123 women and 110 men indicated support for three distinct factors. Sex differences indicated that women scored significantly higher on Intimacy and Commitment than men. Components were also significantly related to a measure of Relational Satisfaction. Regression analysis indicated that each component predicted significant variance for scores on Satisfaction.
Facile and Efficient Synthesis of Bolaamphiphilic Tetraether Phosphocholines.

A facile synthesis of ether-linked bolaform phospholipids in good yields has been developed. Triflic acid catalyzed oxirane ring opening of benzyl-protected rac-glycidyl with long-chain 1,ω-alkanediols (n = 16, 20) produced 1,1‘-diglycerol diethers in 80−90% yield. Double alkylation of the secondary hydroxy groups with 1-bromooctane or 1-bromodecane gave the corresponding benzyl-protected tetraethers in 66% yield. Hydrogenolysis of the benzyl groups in the presence of Pd/C (55−66% yield) followed by phosphorylation with 2 equiv of 2-chloro-2-oxo-1,3,2-dioxaphospholane and amination with excess trimethylamine produced the tetraether bolaform bisphosphocholines as white powders in ∼75% yield. This approach provides a reliable and efficient method for preparing a wide variety of symmetrical bolaform phospholipids on a multigram scale.
Deposition of Albuterol Aerosol Generated by Pneumatic Nebulizer in the Sophia Anatomical Infant Nose-Throat (SAINT) Model

Purpose To quantify distribution of albuterol aerosol generated by a pneumatic nebulizer within the nose and lungs of a model of a 9-month-old child (SAINT) and aerosol loss to the environment, during simulated breathing at increasing tidal volumes (TVs).
The effect of nifedipine on urinary excretion of calcium in preeclampsia

Our objective was to determine if maternal urinary calcium excretion is altered during treatment of mild preeclampsia remote from term with the calcium channel blocker nifedipine. One hundred forty-eight women with mild preeclampsia were randomly allocated to treatment with either bed rest alone (n=64) or in combination with nifedipine (n=84) at 26-36 weeks' gestation. All women had 24 hr urine samples collected for creatinine clearance and calcium excretion determination prior to therapy and during treatment. There was no difference in gestational age at the time of urine collection between the two groups. There were no differences in 24-hr creatinine clearance and calcium excretion between the groups prior to therapy. When followed longitudinally, there was a significant reduction in calcium excretion within each group (p=0.0005 control group, p <0.0001 nifedipine group). Further, a significant reduction in calcium excretion was noted following nifedipine therapy (62+/-94 mg Ca/24 hr) compared to the control group (143+/-153 mg Ca/24 hr), p <0.001. Consistent with previous studies, we have shown that progressive hypocalciuria is a feature of preeclampsia. Further, urinary calcium excretion decreased despite nifedipine therapy. Altered urinary calcium excretion may be less reflective of the progression in severity of preeclampsia in patients treated with nifedipine.
Identification and cloning of two putative subunits of DNA polymerase epsilon in fission yeast

DNA polymerase epsilon (Pol epsilon) is a multi-subunit enzyme required for the initiation of chromosomal DNA replication. Here, we report the cloning of two fission yeast genes, called dpb3+ and dpb4+ that encode proteins homologous to the two smallest subunits of Pol epsilon. Although Dpb4 is not required for cell viability, Deltadpb4 mutants are synthetically lethal with mutations in four genes required for DNA replication initiation, cdc20+ (encoding DNA Pol epsilon), cut5+ (homologous to DPB11/TopBP1), sna41+ (homologous to CDC45) and cdc21+ (encoding Mcm4, a component of the pre-replicative complex). In contrast to Dpb4, Dpb3 is essential for cell cycle progression. A glutathione S-transferase pull-down assay indicates that Dpb3 physically interacts with both Dpb2 and Dpb4, suggesting that Dpb3 associates with other members of the Pol epsilon complex. Depletion of Dpb3 leads to an accumulation of cells in S phase consistent with Dpb3 having a role in DNA replication. In addition, many of the cells have a bi-nucleate or multinucleate phenotype, indicating that cell separation is also inhibited. Finally, we have examined in vivo localization of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged Dpb3 and Dpb4 and found that both proteins are localized to the nucleus consistent with their proposed role in DNA replication. However, in the absence of Dpb3, GFP-Dpb4 appears to be more dispersed throughout the cell, suggesting that Dpb3 may be important in establishing or maintaining normal localization of Dpb4.
Oral Phentolamine in Angina Pectoris

Twelve patients with stable angina pectoris received a placebo for 7 days and then oral phentolamine for an additional 7 days. Exercise was performed at the conclusion of the 2 drug periods. All of the patients developed angina with the stress of exercise while taking placebos. The average time to develop angina was 208sec. In comparison, 9 of the 12 patients were able to exercise longer after phentolamine. The mean increment in exercise capacity was 95sec. Four of the patients were limited by fatigue rather than by angina following phentolamine. None of the patients exercised less after phentolamine than after placebo. Phentolamine can be an effective agent in the treatment of angina pectoris.
Hepatic-portal infusion reduces the satiating potency of CCK-8.

Abstract If a satiating effect of endogenous cholecystokinin (CCK) is produced through a circulating hormonal mechanism, then administration of exogenous CCK into the hepatic-portal vein should decrease meal size. We report here that when doses of CCK-8 are injected intraperitoneally, they are at least four times more potent at reducing food intake than equivalent doses infused into the hepatic-portal vein. Intraportally administered CCK-8 at a dose of 32 μg·kg −1 had an equivalent satiating potency to 4 μg·kg −1 administered intraperitoneally. In contrast, intraportal infusions of the putative satiety hormone, tetradecapeptide bombesin, were equally as effective as intraperitoneal injections for reducing food intake. Bombesin is apparently protected from significant hepatic uptake by its larger size. We conclude that the primary reason for the ineffectiveness of portally administered CCK-8 for reducing food intake is hepatic uptake. These findings support the hypothesis that any satiating effect of endogenous CCK-8 is likely to act primarily through a paracrine mechanism.