cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Update (1969–1989) of D. L. Krantz’s Thesis That the Experimental Analysis of Behavior is Isolated

Citation data from 1970 to 1989 were examined in order to determine whether the “isolation” of the experimental analysis of behavior (EAB) that was originally documented by Krantz (1971, 1972) has persisted beyond the early 1970s. Our findings from analyses of the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior (JEAB) and of related journals support the following conclusions: (1) In the 20-year period since 1969, JEAB has continued to cite its own articles (“self-cite”) at a higher rate than related journals; (2) JEAB’s self-citation rate decreased by a larger amount since 1969 than did that of related journals; and (3) JEAB was cited with diminishing frequency by some related journals during the 20-year period. These findings and other disciplinary comparisons provide information relevant to the issue of the health of behavior analysis and related specialties.
Clinical application of gelatin sponge in the removal of multiple teeth in children

Objective To discuss the clinical application value of gelatin sponge in the extraction of children's multiple teeth. Methods From July 2014 to July 2017, 100 children with multiple teeth in the Children′s Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University were selected, and they were divided into two groups by random number table method, with 50 cases in each group.The observation group after routinely removal of supernumerary tooth, according to the size of the tooth extraction wound, chose proper absorbability gelatin sponge after tamping, para suture wounds, while the control group received routine hemostasis, para suture wounds without stuffing.The postoperative bleeding, pain and infection were compared between the two groups. Results The incidence rate of postoperative hemorrhage in the observation group was 2%, which was lower than 16% in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (χ2=4.40, P 0.05). No infection was found in the two groups. Conclusion Gelatin sponge can be used as one of the effective means of preventing postoperative bleeding in children. Key words: Gelatin sponge, absorbable; Supernumerary teeth; Stop the bleeding; Children
Electrochemical generation of hexacyanoferrate and hexacyanoruthanate electroactive films at nickel electrode surfaces: A promising synthetic approach for new electrode materials in metal ion batteries and supercapacitors

Abstract Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) have been recently investigated as promising electrode materials for battery and supercapacitor applications. While most explorations have focused on PBA nanoparticles, very little attention has been focused on PBA films deposited on a metallic support. In this work, we have examined electrogenerating hexacyanoferrate (HCF) and hexacyanoruthenate (HCR) films on nickel surfaces via cyclic voltammetry. We found that the total material deposited was influenced by the metal cation present in the electrolyte solution and that, on average, the rate of deposition of the surface adsorbed/immobilized species was dependent on the species in solution. In particular, films electrogenerated in the presence of Na+ and K+ had the highest deposition rates. The cyclic voltammetric profiles exhibited dramatic differences depending on the cation present in the electrolyte solution. In addition, we found that all films were electrochemically irreversible in the presence of Li+ and Mg2+ containing electrolyte solutions. Further, and as a proof of concept, we modified high surface area nickel electrodes with HCF in sodium-based electrolytes, finding that these electrodes could operate reversibly at equivalent C-rates as high as 1667C.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR): Focus on tax avoidance and financial ratio analysis

This study aims to discover the relationship between financial ratios and tax avoidance in firms participating in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. Using a sample of 365 Chinese listed firms in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges, we find that engaging in CSR activities discourages tax avoidance behaviors, especially in companies that actively participate in CSR activities. Concerning financial ratios, we also find that firms with higher profitability, higher cash flow, and higher sales growth are more likely to participate in tax avoidance. In contrast, firms with high liquidity are less likely to engage in tax avoidance. Based on the results of this study, tax authorities can predict whether a Chinese company will engage in tax avoidance activities in future by referring to its financial ratios. Moreover, tax authorities can use CSR activities to encourage companies to pay tax
At the intersection of sleep deficiency and opioid use: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

Due to the ongoing opioid epidemic, innovative scientific perspectives and approaches are urgently needed to reduce the unprecedented personal and societal burdens of nonmedical and recreational opioid use. One promising opportunity is to focus on the relationship between sleep deficiency and opioid use. In this review, we examine empirical evidence: (1) at the interface of sleep deficiency and opioid use, including hypothesized bidirectional associations between sleep efficiency and opioid abstinence; (2) as to whether normalization of sleep deficiency might directly or indirectly improve opioid abstinence (and vice versa); and (3) regarding mechanisms that could link improvements in sleep to opioid abstinence. Based on available data, we identify candidate sleep-restorative therapeutic approaches that should be examined in rigorous clinical trials.
The clinical applications of five-alpha reductase inhibitors.

INTRODUCTION Five-alpha reductase (5-AR) deficiency was first identified by Imperato-McGinley and Walsh as the cause of pseudohermaphroditism in two separate studies. The discoveries led to the development of finasteride (inhibitor of type 2 isoenzyme of 5-AR) and dutasteride (inhibitor of type 1 and type 2 isoenzymes of 5-AR. Both drugs have been proven effective for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and improve voiding symptoms, reduce the risk of urinary retention and the need for prostate surgery. Five-alpha reductase inhibitors 5-ARIs have been demonstrated to be chemopreventive agents and reduce the risk of prostate cancer, although the risk of selecting out or mediating higher grade prostate cancer remains uncertain. A lower dose of finasteride has been shown to be effective in the treatment of male pattern baldness. Materials and methods A Medline search was performed using mesh terms, benign prostatic hypertrophy, prostate cancer, male pattern baldness, female and 5-AR. Results The Prostate Long Term Efficacy and Safety Study (PLESS) was a randomized double-blind study that established that finasteride resulted in a 22% increase in maximum flow rate and a 19% decrease in prostate volume. Further studies demonstrated that finasteride caused a significant reduction in the risk of the need for surgery and urinary retention in a 4 year period. Additional studies showed similar beneficial results with dutasteride. The potential benefits of 5-ARIs as chemopreventive agents were examined in the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) and the Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events (REDUCE) studies. In the 7 year PCPT trial, 18.4% of the finasteride group developed prostate cancer compared to 24.4% in the placebo group. In the 4 year REDUCE trial, there was a 22.8% reduction of prostate cancer at the conclusion of the study. Despite the reduction of prostate cancer in both the PCPT and REDUCE trials, each study showed an increased risk of prostate cancer in the treatment arms. The explanation for these observations remains an area of investigation. Low dose finasteride has also been used successfully for the treatment of male pattern baldness. Conclusions The use of 5-ARIs has been a major advance in urologic clinical practice. Urologists should be familiar with the underlying pharmacology of 5-ARIs as well as the clinical indications for their use.
Demographic differences in performance validity test failure.

Objective The present study investigated demographic differences in performance validity test (PVT) failure in a Veteran sample. Method Data were extracted from clinical neuropsychological evaluations. Only veterans who identified as men, as either European American/White (EA) or African American/Black (AA) were included (n = 1261). We investigated whether performance on two frequently used PVTs, the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM), and the Medical Symptom Validity Test (MSVT), differed by age, education, and race using separate logistic regressions. Results Veterans with younger age, less education, and Veterans Affairs (VA) service-connected disability were significantly more likely to fail both PVTs. Race was not a significant predictor of MSVT failure, but AA patients were significantly more likely than EA patients to fail the TOMM. For all significant demographic predictors in the models, effects were small. In a subsample of patients who were given both PVTs (n = 461), the effects of race on performance remained. Conclusions Performance on the TOMM and MSVT differed by age and level of education. Performance on the TOMM differed between EA and AA patients, whereas performance on the MSVT did not. These results suggest that demographic factors may play a small but measurable role in performance on specific PVTs.
Quantitative imaging features predict spinal tap response in normal pressure hydrocephalus.

Gait improvement following high-volume lumbar puncture (HVLP) and continuous lumbar drain (cLD) is widely used to predict shunt response in patients with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Here, we investigate differences in MRI volumetric and traditional measures between HVLP/cLD responders and non-responders to identify imaging features that may help predict HVLP/cLD response. Eighty-two patients with suspected NPH were studied retrospectively. Gait testing was performed before and immediately/24 h/72 h after HVLP/cLD. A positive response was defined as improvement in gait post-procedure. Thirty-six responders (26 men; mean age 79.3 ± 6.3) and 46 non-responders (25 men; mean age 77.2 ± 6.1) underwent pre-procedure brain MRI including a 3D T1-weighted sequence. Subcortical regional volumes were segmented using FreeSurfer. After normalizing for total intracranial volume, two-way type III ANCOVA test and chi-square test were used to characterize statistical group differences. Evans’ index, callosal angle (CA), and disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid space hydrocephalus were assessed. Multivariable logistic regression models were tested using Akaike information criterion to determine which combination of metrics most accurately predicts HVLP/cLD response. Responders and non-responders demonstrated no differences in total ventricular and white/gray matter volumes. CA (men only) and third and fourth ventricular volumes were smaller; and hippocampal volume was larger in responders (p < 0.05). Temporal horns volume correlated with degree of improvement in gait velocity in responders (p = 0.0006). The regression model was 76.8% accurate for HVLP/cLD response. CA and third and fourth ventricular volumes and hippocampal volume may serve as potentially useful imaging features that may help predict spinal tap response and hence potentially shunt response.
Obesity Is Associated with Sustained Symptomatology and Unique Inflammatory Features in Children with Asthma.

Background Obesity complicates the clinical manifestations of asthma in children. However, few studies have examined longitudinal outcomes or markers of systemic inflammation in obese asthmatic children. Objective We hypothesized that obese children with asthma would have: (1) poorer clinical outcomes over 12 months, (2) decreased responsiveness to systemic corticosteroid administration, (3) greater markers of systemic inflammation, and (4) unique amino acid metabolites associated with oxidative stress. Methods Children 6 to 17 years of age (lean, N = 257; overweight, N = 99; obese, N = 138) completed a baseline visit and follow-up visit at 12 months. Outcome measures included asthma control, quality of life, lung function, and exacerbations. A subset received intramuscular triamcinolone and were re-evaluated at 7(+7) days. Leptin, adiponectin, C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17, interferon gamma, tumor necrosis factor alpha, monocyte-chemoattractant protein-1, and amino acid metabolites were also quantified in plasma as potential biomarkers of outcomes in obese children. Results Obesity was associated with more symptoms, poorer quality life, and more exacerbations that persisted over 1 year despite greater medication requirements. Obese children also had minimal clinical improvement in asthma control and lung function after intramuscular triamcinolone. Leptin, C-reactive protein, and amino acid metabolites associated with glutathione synthesis and oxidative stress differed in obese children. Within the obese group, lower concentrations of arginine-related metabolites also distinguished uncontrolled from controlled asthma at 12 months. Conclusion Obesity is associated with poorer asthma outcomes and unique systemic inflammatory features that may not be adequately modified with conventional asthma therapies. Novel approaches may be needed given increased symptoms and unique inflammation and oxidative stress in obese children with asthma.
Controlling vibrational excitations in C60 by laser pulse durations

Two similar off-resonant ultrafast laser experiments in C60 have reported two different vibrational modes that dominate the relaxation process: one predicts the A(g) modes while the other the H(g) modes. A systematical simulation presented here reveals that this experimental discrepancy results from the laser pulse duration. The numerical results show that since each mode nu has a distinctive optimal duration tau(nu)(o), the A(g) modes are strongly suppressed for durations longer than 40 fs, while the H(g) modes start to grow. For the off-resonant and low-intensity excitations, the period Omega(o)(nu) of the dominant mode and tau(nu)(o) satisfy the relation Omega(o)(nu)/tau(nu)(o) approximately 3.4. By carefully scanning the laser frequencies and pulse durations, a comprehensive excitation diagram is constructed, which can be used to guide experiments to selectively excite the A(g) and H(g) modes in C60 by an ultrafast laser. Its potential impact is also discussed.
The relationships of the viruses of measles, canine distemper, and rinderpest.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the viruses of measles, distemper, rinderpest, and those other agents, such as the so-called “foamy” viruses that have in common a cytopathic effect in tissue culture consisting of syncytium formation and the production of intracytoplasmic and intranuclear inclusion bodies. It discusses the immunologic relationships of these viruses. It also attempts to illustrate graphically some of the known similarities and dissimilarities among members of the group. It has been shown that alterations in the virulence of these three viruses are easily accomplished by serial transfers in alien host systems. Further, the antibody patterns that follow from infection with attenuated strains may be both quantitatively and qualitatively different from those that are produced by natural infection. For this reason, virulent fresh strains may prove to be the ones of choice for future work on antigenic sharing within this group.
Distributed control for optimal economic dispatch of power generators

In this paper, we present a simple, distributed algorithm that adjusts the power-frequency set-points of generators to correct for generation and load fluctuations, and asymptotically achieves the lowest-cost power allocation among generators while driving the power imbalance exponentially to zero. In this algorithm each generator executes its own control law using only the power imbalance in the network, a quantity in turn locally obtained through local monitoring of the frequency deviation on the grid. Our results only assume that the cost of each generator is a convex function. The distributed approach is motivated by the anticipated needs of the future electric grid with a large penetration of distributed small-scale alternative energy generators, and also consumers with “smart metering” capabilities. We present analytical results and numerical simulations to illustrate the performance of our algorithm.
Endotracheal intubation versus supraglottic airway placement in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: A meta-analysis

Objective Overall survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is less than 10%. After initial bag-valve mask ventilation, 80% of patients receive an advanced airway, either by endotracheal intubation (ETI) or placement of a supraglottic airway (SGA). The objective of this meta-analysis was to compare patient outcomes for these two advanced airway methods in OHCA patients treated by Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Methods A dual-reviewer search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database to identify all relevant peer-reviewed articles for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Exclusion criteria were traumatic arrests, pediatric patients, physician/nurse intubators, rapid sequence intubation, video devices, and older airway devices. Outcomes were (1) return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), (2) survival to hospital admission, (3) survival to hospital discharge, and (4) neurologically intact survival to hospital discharge. Results were adjusted for covariates when available and combined using the random effects model. Results From 3,454 titles, 10 observational studies fulfilled all criteria, representing 34,533 ETI patients and 41,116 SGA patients. Important covariates were similar between groups. Patients who received ETI had statistically significant higher odds of ROSC (odds ratio [OR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.55), survival to hospital admission (OR 1.34, CI 1.03-1.75), and neurologically intact survival (OR 1.33, CI 1.09-1.61) compared to SGA. Survival to hospital discharge was not statistically different (OR 1.15, CI 0.97-1.37). Conclusions Patients with OHCA who receive ETI by EMS are more likely to obtain ROSC, survive to hospital admission, and survive neurologically intact when compared to SGA.
True power dissipation of catheter tip velocity probes

A recent paper, (Jones and Wyatt, 1970) reports that the catheter tip electromagnetic velocity probe described by Bond and Barefoot (1967) and Warbasse, Hellman, Gillilan, Hawley, and Babitt (1969) is thermally unsafe. We have evaluated the true power dissipation of this probe and have found it to be comparable with the dissipation of the catheter tip probe described by Mills (1966) and Mills and Shillingford (1967), and evaluated thermally by Jones and Wyatt (1970). The temperature rise of a probe is directly related to the power dissipation of the probe. Any statement regarding the thermal safety of the Mills probe applies equally to that of Bond and Barefoot. We conclude that both probes are thermally safe, except possibly for long periods of operation under zero flow conditions.
Non-involvement of lignin peroxidases and manganese peroxidases in 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid degradation by Phanerochaete chrysosporium

Phanerochaete chrysosporium (ME-446) mineralized 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) in high N medium and in malt extract medium in which lignin peroxidases (LIPs) and manganese peroxidases (MNPs) are not produced; furthermore,per mutant of ME-446, which lacks LIPs and MNPs, mineralized 2,4,5-T as well as the wild type. These results indicate that LIPs and MNPs are not required for 2,4,5-T degradation byP. chrysosporium.
Granulocyte collagenase: selective digestion of type I relative to type III collagen

Abstract Collagenases produced by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes, human lung fibroblasts, and rabbit pulmonary alveolar macrophages were compared in their ability to digest soluble native type I and type III collagens. While the fibroblast and macrophage collagenases attacked the two substrates at approximately equal rates, the leukocyte collagenase attacked type I collagen preferentially (15:1) in comparison to type III collagen. This was true with human or rabbit collagen substrates. Thus, proteolysis of collagen, particularly in acute inflammation, may have a significant role in controlling the types of collagen present in connective tissue.
Calculation of the mobility of electrons injected in liquid argon

A model calculation is carried out in which we evaluate the mobility of electrons injected in liquid argon. Scattering by both phonons and static density fluctuations is taken into account. The calculation for the mobility limited by phonon scattering differs from the usual calculation in crystals by considering both the local changes in the deformation potential and the changes of the amplitude of the phonons that are caused by the existence of density fluctuations. The calculation of the mobility limited by scattering from density fluctuations is carried out with the assumption that they give rise to a square-well (or barrier) potential that will scatter the electrons. The above perturbation ..delta..V/sub 0/ is related to a density fluctuation ..delta..n by ..delta..V/sub 0/ = V/sub 0/(n-bar+..delta..n)-V/sub 0/(n-bar). The scattering volumes ..cap omega.., where the density fluctuation ..delta..n is located, are weighted by exp(-r/xi) where xi is the correlation length and r is the radius of ..cap omega... The magnitude of the different density fluctuations is weighted by exp(-(..delta..n)/sup 2/..cap omega../2nS(0)), where S(0) = nk/sub B/TK/sub T/, K/sub T/ is the isothermal compressibility. The calculation of the mean free path is carried out using partial waves. Both scattering mechanisms, scattering by phonons andmore » static density fluctuations, give comparable contributions to the mobility.« less
Acts of Remembering: Relationship in Feminist Therapy

This article is an act of remembering. In the first part of this article, the author remembers and reflects upon her own journey of being and becoming a feminist, healer and clinical psychologist in training. She then shares some of the most meaningful lessons on 1) the therapeutic alliance, 2) transference and countertransference, 3) the nature of change, and 4) cultural competence that she has learned from her sister of the heart relationship with the brilliant spirit and work of Black lesbian, feminist, warrior poet, and activist, Audre Lorde. In each of these lessons the author reflects on her efforts to translate her conceptual or applied practice as a feminist student therapist. It is her hope to invite exploration of new bridges and paths by which other feminist psychologists may connect more deeply and meaningfully to our work both professionally and personally. The author closes with some reflections on the path ahead for feminist psychology.
Knowledge construction in the learner-centered classroom.

In this study, the author describes the nature and occurrence of knowledge-construction links (KCLs) in 3 6th-grade classrooms that varied in degree of learner centeredness. KCLs are operationalized as prior learning that students bring to their current classroom experiences and include school and nonschool experiences. They are hypothesized to facilitate a knowledge-construction process that values prior learning. In the more learner-centered classroom, KCLs occurred in conjunction with open and divergent dialogue, positive reactions to students' use of prior learning, and opportunities within the classroom that allowed students to gain new experiences on which they could draw in further knowledge-construction efforts. In contrast, KCLs were ignored or viewed as inappropriate in the least learner-centered classroom, dialogue about content was convergent, and performance goals were the norm. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Fingering versus stability in the limit of zero interfacial tension

The invasion of one fluid into another of higher viscosity in a quasi-two dimensional geometry typically produces complex fingering patterns. Because interfacial tension suppresses short-wavelength fluctuations, its elimination by using pairs of miscible fluids would suggest an instability producing highly ramified singular structures. Previous studies focused on wavelength selection at the instability onset and overlooked the striking features appearing more globally. Here we investigate the non-linear growth that occurs after the instability has been fully established. We find a rich variety of patterns that are characterized by the viscosity ratio between the inner and the outer fluid, η(in)/η(out), as distinct from the most-unstable wavelength, which determines the onset of the instability. As η(in)/η(out) increases, a regime dominated by long highly-branched fractal fingers gives way to one dominated by blunt stable structures characteristic of proportionate growth. Simultaneously, a central region of complete outer-fluid displacement grows until it encompasses the entire pattern at η(in)/η(out)≈0.3.
Gender effects in private value auctions

Abstract In a two-stage auction, women are significantly more likely to go bankrupt than men, bidding more aggressively than the men in both phases of the auction process.
Regional quantification of dopamine transporter mRNA in rat brain using a ribonuclease protection assay

We describe the regional distribution of dopamine transporter (DAT) mRNA in selected regions of rat brain using a highly sensitive and specific nuclease protection assay. This method determines the absolute quantity of mRNA expressed in the brain regions surveyed. DAT mRNA level varied widely between brain regions, and was detected only in cell body regions of the major dopaminergic pathways. Highest expression was seen in substantia nigra/ventral tegmentum (SN/VTA). Lower but detectable expression of a protected mRNA of the expected size was observed within hypothalamus. Expression could not be detected by this method in other brain regions studied. Our results indicate that this method is sufficiently sensitive to allow study of mRNA expression in individual animals.
Scaling and root planing is effective in reducing preterm birth only in high-risk groups.

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Scaling and root planing treatment for periodontitis to reduce preterm birth and low birth weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Kim AJ, Lo AJ, Pullin DA, Thornton-Johnson DS, Karimbux NY. J Periodontol 2012;83:1508-19. Reviewer Ananda P. Dasanayake, BDS, MPH, PhD, FACE Purpose/Question Authors perform an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy of scaling and root planning (SRP) in reducing preterm birth and low birth weight Source of Funding None declared Type of Study/Design Systematic review with meta-analysis of data Level of Evidence Level 2: Limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence Strength of Recommendation Grade Grade A: Consistent, good-quality patient-oriented evidence
Reducing task creation and termination overhead in explicitly parallel programs

There has been a proliferation of task-parallel programming systems to address the requirements of multicore programmers. Current production task-parallel systems include Cilk++, Intel Threading Building Blocks, Java Concurrency, .Net Task Parallel Library, OpenMP 3.0, and current research task-parallel languages include Cilk, Chapel, Fortress, X10, and Habanero-Java (HJ). It is desirable for the programmer to express all the parallelism intrinsic to their algorithm in their code for forward scalability and portability, but the overhead incurred by doing so can be prohibitively large in today's systems. In this paper, we address the problem of reducing the total amount of overhead incurred by a program due to excessive task creation and termination. We introduce a transformation framework to optimize task-parallel programs with finish, forall and next statements. Our approach includes elimination of redundant task creation and termination operations as well as strength reduction of termination operations (finish) to lighter-weight synchronizations (next). Experimental results were obtained on three platforms: a dual-socket 128-thread (16-core) Niagara T2 system, a quad-socket 16-way Intel Xeon SMP and a quad-socket 32-way Power7 SMP. The results showed maximum speedup of 66.7×, 11.25× and 23.1× respectively on each platform and 4.6×, 2.1× and 6.4×performance improvements respectively in geometric mean related to non-optimized parallel codes. The original benchmarks in this study were written with medium-grained parallelism; a larger relative improvement can be expected for programs written with finer-grained parallelism. However, even for the medium-grained parallel benchmarks studied in this paper, the significant improvement obtained by the transformation framework underscores the importance of the compiler optimizations introduced in this paper.
255 AN ADVENTAGEOUS ASYMMETRY IN THE BURSTING PRESSORE OF FETAL MEMBRANES

The association between prematurity and early rupture of amniotie membranes prompted studies of the tensile strength and elastic limit of human fetal membranes. Chorio-amniotic membranes were obtained from 14 uncomplicated, term pregnancies at the time of elective, repeat C-section. None of the mothers had been in labor, all of them had intact membranes prior to the section, and all of the infants were normal. Multiple sites were sampled from each amniotie sac by mounting samples between two circular surfaces (O.D. 3 cm) with a central tapered round hole (diameter 0.45 cm). Progressive increases in the pressure provided by a tank of compressed nitrogen were plotted by a X-Y plotter against the displacement of a rod by the stretched membrane up to the point of bursting. Human membranes had marked (>3 fold) variability in bursting pressure and elastic limit as compared to synthetic membranes of silicone or polyethylene polymer. There was a positive correlation between the pressure and the elastic limit at the point of bursting for samples of amnion (r=.53, p<10−6), chorion (r=.53, p<10−6) and the intact bilayer of the two membranes together (r=.27, p<10−6) but not for the synthetic membranes. The combination of amnion and chorion was about 7% stronger (p <.003) when pressure was applied from the fetal side as opposed to the maternal surface, although the bursting pressure of amnion or chorion alone was independent of the direction from which it was applied.
Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization inside a quadrupole ion‐trap detector cell

An ion-trap detector has been modified for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization using a pulsed frequency-quadrupled Nd: YAG laser and extended mass range up to 3300 u using the resonant-rejection mode of operation. The matric-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectra of a number of peptides are reported, and the effects due to the synchronization of the laser pulses and the phase of the RF voltage applied to the ring electrode are described.
Surface stretch analysis of the heart using tagged magnetic resonance imaging in 3D

Information from short axis and long axis tagged magnetic resonance images was combined in 9 dogs with acute ischemia to yield a 3D reconstruction of 24 myocardial cuboids per heart. Both endocardial and epicardial surface stretches were calculated for each cuboid. The results indicate that the surface stretch clearly discriminates ischemie from remote normal regions, (p<0.01 and p< 0.005 for the epicardial and endocardial surfaces respectively), manifesting its potential as a reliable clinical index.
Accuracy of Thinprep Imaging System in detecting atypical glandular cells

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the ThinPrep Imaging System (Imager) in detecting atypical glandular cells (AGC) or adenocarcinoma in the 22 selected fields. All cases reported as AGC or adenocarcinoma from January 2005 to December 2006 that had been initially screened by the Imager were retrospectively reviewed to determine whether the most diagnostically relevant groups/cells were within the 22 selected fields. A total of 39 cases were reviewed. The cases were divided into two groups: the group with diagnostic cells detected within the 22 selected fields (accurately detected group) and the group with upgraded diagnosis following rescreening process (underdetected group). The Imager accurately detected 32 (82%) of cases with abnormal glandular cells, including six cases reported as adenocarcinoma, one case as adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS), and 25 cases as AGC. In seven (18%) cases, the Imager failed to detect the most abnormal cells within the 22 selected fields. Among these, one case was adenocarcinoma, while the rest were reported as AGC. Overall, four cases were assessed as atypical during quality control (QC) rescreening even though the Imager detected abnormal groups in most. Fourteen of 32 cases had abnormalities proven by histologic follow-up. Overall, the Imager was effective in detecting most AGC, AIS and invasive adenocarcinomas. In a minority (18%) of cases, the Imager failed to detect the cells of interest within the 22 selected fields. However, full manual review of cases with potential atypical/reactive groups or endometrial groups in women > or = 40 and QC rescreening of selected cases may help to minimize the underdetected cases.
Validation of the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale in a cancer population.

Abstract Objectives This study examined the construct and criterion validity of the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) in cancer outpatients, using matched community members as controls. Methods Cancer outpatients (n=122) applying for enrollment in a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program completed the MAAS and measures of mood disturbance and stress. Local community members (n=122) matched to the patients on gender, age, and education level completed the same measures. Results The single-factor structure of the MAAS was invariant across the groups. Higher MAAS scores were associated with lower mood disturbance and stress symptoms in cancer patients, and the structure of these relations was invariant across groups. Conclusions The MAAS appears to have appropriate application in research examining the role of mindfulness in the psychological well-being of cancer patients, with or without comparisons to nonclinical controls.
The synthesis and characterization of isobutylantimony compounds

Abstract Six new isobutyl derivatives of antimony have been synthesized in good yields, including the five-coordinate i-Bu3SbI2 and the three-coordinate i-Bu2SbI, i-Bu2SbBr, i-BuSbBr2, i-Bu2SbH, and i-BuSbH2. The iodides were made from addition of iodine to i-Bu3Sb and subsequent thermal decomposition of i-Bu3SbI2. The bromides were synthesized by thermal exchange reactions of i-Bu3Sb with SbBr3, and the hydrides from reduction of the bromides with LiAlH4. All compounds have been characterized by elemental analysis, IR, and NMR spectroscopy.
Obstetric outcomes and maternal satisfaction in nulliparous women using patient-controlled epidural analgesia

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare obstetric outcomes and maternal satisfaction in nulliparous women in spontaneous labor who used patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) vs continuous epidural infusion (CEI). Study Design We conducted a double-masked trial of 270 nulliparous women who were assigned randomly to 3 groups (with a concentration 0.1% bupivacaine and 2 μg/mL fentanyl): group I, CEI-only (10 mL/h); group II, CEI + PCEA (CEI 10 mL/h plus PCEA 10 mL, at 20 minutes); group III, PCEA-only (10 mL, at 20 minutes). A PCEA bolus button was given to each subject. The primary outcome was the dosage of local anesthetic that was used. Results The total milligrams of bupivacaine that were used was less in the PCEA-only group compared with CEI: group I. 74.8 ± 36 mg; group II, 97.3 ± 53 mg; group III, 52.4 ± 42 mg ( P P = .23). Conclusion PCEA results in less anesthetic used, and maternal satisfaction remains high without a continuous infusion. Pain with pushing, however, was worse with the PCEA alone.
Generalized perturbation theory of effective valence shell hamiltonians

Abstract The second quantized effective valence shell hamiltonian of Iwata and Freed is generalized to incorporate valence orbital energies into the perturbative (matrix) energy denominators, eliminating convergence difficulties in calculations of atomic valence shell hamiltonians. When the matrix energy denominators are taken to be the simplest form our generalized effective hamiltonian reduces to Brandow quasi-degenerate theory.
The superposition of small deformations on large deformations: measurements of the incremental relaxation modulus for a polyisobutylene solution

The incremental relaxation modulus ΔG(t) for a concentrated solution of polyisobutylene has been determined from step-shear experiments in which a small deformation Δγ was superimposed on a large deformation γ1; ΔG(t) was found to decrease with increasing γ1 and to increase with the time te after the imposition of the large deformation. It was also observed that the “apparent relaxation specturm” associated with δG(t) narrows and shifts to shorter times when compared to the spectrum associated with the linear viscoelastic relaxation modulus G(t). The results are well described by the nonlinear constitutive equation of the BKZ elastic fluid theory.
The Cause of Cost in the Management of Odontogenic Infections 1: A Demographic Survey and Multivariate Analysis

Purpose The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to describe the demographics of patients with odontogenic infections and to evaluate the costs associated with the demographic, social, treatment, and hospital course variables in patients hospitalized for odontogenic infections. Materials and Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted in patients admitted for odontogenic infections at Harborview Medical Center from July 1, 2001, through June 30, 2011. Results In total, 318 patient charts were reviewed and included. The unsponsored portion of the patient population increased from 14.7-61.9% over the course of the study. The average hospital bill per patient in this study was $17,053. Of the $5,422,854 billed, only $1,528,869 was received by the hospital in payment for services rendered, equating to $3,893,985 in lost potential revenue. The variables location of treatment, length of stay, length of stay in the intensive care unit, additional use of the operating room, and antibiotic regimen accounted for 90.2% of the variation in the hospital bill. Conclusion Unsponsored patients constituting 61.9% of the patient population represent an enormous challenge for hospitals and providers. To maintain the standard of care for all patients and still be able to provide care to patients without insurance, county hospitals and academic institutions must seek to improve cost efficiency. The present findings reinforce the need to be vigilant about the decision to admit, take to the operating room, admit to an intensive care unit, and discharge to lower the costs to the patient, hospital, and society for the management of odontogenic infections.
Interaction of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) with induced adipocyte differentiation in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) involves tyrosine kinase c-Src

Abstract Adipocyte differentiation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) derived from c-Src wild-type or c-Src-deficient (abbreviated as MEF+/+ and MEF−/− hereafter) C57BL/6 mice was induced by ascorbic acid (A) and β-glycerophosphate (G). TCDD clearly suppressed differentiation of MEF+/+, but not MEF−/−, as measured by increased accumulation of triglycerides associated with increased expression of adipocyte differentiation-specific genes such as peroxisome proliferators activated receptor (PPAR)γ, stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD-1). Studies on inducibility of TCDD-activated genes such as cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A1 and CYP1B1 revealed a comparable dose response in both MEF+/+ and MEF−/−. Furthermore, the binding activity of AhR complexes to xenobiotic response elements (XREs) was similar in both cell lines. We further studied the effect of TCDD on CCAAT/enhancer binding proteins (C/EBP), which are known to be important regulators of cell differentiation. TCDD induced C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ mRNA expression and DNA binding activity in a time- and dose-dependent manner in MEF+/+ but not in MEF−/−. The levels of C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ were still elevated in differentiated MEF+/+ after 10 days of treatment with TCDD. In MEF−/−, C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ are highly expressed constitutively. In contrast to MEF+/+, TCDD does not cause any significant change of these transcription factors in MEF−/−. These data indicate that suppression of differentiation by TCDD in MEF requires a functional c-Src activity and induced levels of C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ, including their maintenance at high levels by TCDD, rather than ultimate high levels of these C/EBP isoforms.
Development of novel single-wall carbon nanotube epoxy composite ply actuators

This paper describes a carbon nanotube epoxy ply material that has electrochemical actuation properties. The material was formed by dispersing single-wall carbon nanotubes in a solvent and then solution casting a thin paper using a mold and vacuum oven. In order to take advantage of the high elastic modulus of carbon nanotubes for actuation, epoxy as a chemically inert polymer is considered. An epoxy layer was cast on the surface of the nanotube paper to make a two-layer ply. A wet electrochemical actuator was formed by placing the nanotube epoxy ply in a 2 M NaCl electrolyte solution. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry were carried out to characterize the electrochemical properties of the actuator. The voltage–current relationship and power to drive the actuator material were also determined. Compared to previous single-wall carbon nanotube buckypaper tape actuators, which had poor adhesion between the nanotubes and tape, and other nanotube–thermal plastic polymer actuators, which could not provide high strength, the epoxy based actuator has a higher elastic modulus and strength, which will be useful for future structural applications. This demonstrates that a polymer layer can reinforce nanotube paper, which is an important step in building a new structural material that actuates. Further work is under way to develop a solid electrolyte to allow dry actuation. Finally, these actuator plies will be laminated to build a carbon nanocomposite material. This smart structural material will have potential applications that range from use in robotic surgical tools to use as structures that change shape.
Abstract CN11-01: Disparities in mental health outcomes between rural and nonrural cancer survivors

CN11-01 Considerable research has sought to identify disparities in cancer screening, incidence, treatment, and survival associated with race and ethnicity. Less research has sought to identify cancer-related disparities associated with geographic area of residence. No research has examined disparities in mental health outcomes due to whether a cancer survivor resides in a rural or nonrural area. This, despite the fact that there are a variety of social, psychological and structural reasons to believe such disparities might exist. Mental health outcomes were assessed in 116 survivors of a breast, colorectal, or hematologic malignancy. All study participants were 1 to 5 years post cancer diagnosis at time or study participation. All participants were recruited from the statewide, population-based Kentucky SEER cancer registry. Participants were classified as either rural or nonrural based on county of residence at time of cancer diagnosis using 2003 USDA rural-urban continuum codes (i.e., Beale codes). Participants residing in counties with codes 7-9 were classified as “rural” (n=54) while those residing in counties with codes 1-6 were classified as “nonrural” (n=62). All study participants completed a structured telephone interview and a mailed questionnaire packet. One-way ANOVA and ANCOVA comparing the rural and nonrural groups comprised the primary data analytic strategy for continuous measures while binary logistic regression analysis was used to analyze dichotomous measures. Effect sizes (ES) for continuous measures were calculated by dividing the mean group difference on a measure by the standard deviation in the entire sample. ES’s exceeding .33 SD were considered to be clinically significant or important differences between the rural and nonrural groups. Results indicated rural survivors evidenced significantly higher distress ratings on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Distress Thermometer (p .10) nor did they differ with regard to measures of benefit-finding or life satisfaction/well-being (both p’s > .10) As the rural group was less educated (p Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):CN11-01.
EVALUATION OF CUSTOMER PERCEPTIONS FOR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT: A CASE STUDY

This article describes a quality improvement effort starting with the customers. We start with a survey to determine the customer perceptions of the quality of the company's main product. Based on this survey, we prioritize potential improvement areas i..
CP-70,030 and CP-75,998: The first non-peptide antagonists of bombesin and gastrin releasing peptide

Abstract CP-70,030 and CP-75,998 were identified in a screening program as compounds able to displace [125I]-gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) from its rat brain receptor. We describe here the syntheses of these compounds and their characterization as bonafide GRP antagonists.
Oxygen tension of tissues in vivo.

It seems fair to say that prior to the use of the oxygen electrode there was a static concept of the oxygen tension of tissues. This was true in spite of the fact that Bazett and Sribyatta, with the gas bubble technic, had demonstrated one example of a labile oxygen tension, in the subcutaneous space of man.17 They of course could not show the rapidity with which the changes take place. Experiments with the polarographic technic have shown that profound changes in oxygen tension can take place very rapidly, all the way from values approaching that of arterial blood down to zero. In vasodilated skin oxygen tension approaches that of arterial blood. When different concentrations of oxygen are breathed, the changes in oxygen tension in such skin closely follow those of the arterial blood. When the circulation to skin is limited by peripheral arterial occlusion, oxygen is reduced and does not increase on vasodilatation as much as does that of normal skin. When a normal person breathes oxygen, the oxygen in th...
Hydrogen bonding potential, HBP: A model for predicting resin solubilities in organic solvents

In a previous paper, a two-parameter model was described that could be used to predict the hydrogen bond enthalpy of formation between two compounds forming a single hydrogen bond. This paper describes the extension of the use of the two parameters for solvents and polymeric resins in another mathematical model that involves four terms that determine the “hydrogen bonding potential” (HBP) interaction between a resin and a given solvent. Each solvent and each resin can be assigned a donating and accepting parameter (relative to hydrogen bond formation) that combine to yield a numeric value for HBP. A negative HBP value is associated with favorable hydrogen bonding between a resin and a solvent which should correspond to a situation in which solution formation is favorable. A positive HBP value indicates unfavorable interaction which discourages solution formation. Thus, HBP becomes a predictive model of solubilities. Numerical data are presented for four resins and 26 solvents that correlate well with observed solubility behavior. Using this model, it is also possible to construct “solubility maps,” and these are also discussed.