cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ocular Determinants of Refractive Error and Its Age- and Sex-Related Variations in the Chinese American Eye Study.

Importance Uncorrected refractive error (RE) is a leading cause of visual impairment, and variations in ocular anatomy determine RE. The unique ocular determinants of RE in Chinese American individuals have not been studied previously. Objective To report ocular determinants of RE in a Chinese American population 50 years and older in Monterey Park, California. Design, Setting, and Participants The Chinese American Eye Study, a population-based, cross-sectional study, was conducted from February 1, 2010, through October 31, 2013, in Monterey Park, with this particular data analysis performed from January 1 through December 31, 2016. This study included data from 4582 participants who underwent an eye examination to obtain axial length (AL), central corneal thickness, vitreous chamber depth (VCD), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), corneal power (CP), noncycloplegic subjective refraction, and lens nuclear opalescence (NOP) grading. Data from the right phakic eye of each participant were used. Multiple regression models (standardized regression coefficients [SRCs] and semipartial correlation coefficients squared [SPCCs 2 ]) identified key determinants of RE. Main Outcomes and Measures Ocular determinants of RE. Results Among the 4071 participants eligible for analysis (1496 men [36.7%] and 2575 women [63.3%]; mean [SD] age, 60.5 [8.1] years), mean (SD) RE was −0.52 (2.95) diopters (D), with no sex-related difference. A hyperopic shift occurred in women from −0.62 (2.95) D at 50 to 59 years to 0.60 (1.62) D at 80 years or older and in men from −0.69 (3.00) D at 50 to 59 years to 0.40 (2.29) D at 80 years or older ( P P = .006), shorter ACD (mean [SD], 3.33 [0.34] vs 3.44 [0.34] mm; P P = .02), after adjusting for age and height. No sex differences were found in VCD, LT, and NOP after height adjustment. Compared with younger individuals, older individuals had shallower ACD, thicker LT, and more NOP compared with younger individuals ( P 2 = 0.55), followed by CP (SRC = −0.43; SPCC 2 = 0.15). When individual components of AL were evaluated, VCD had the greatest contributing effect (SRC = −0.99; SPCC 2 = 0.52), followed by CP (SRC = −0.47; SPCC 2 = 0.15) and LT (SRC = −0.29; SPCC 2 = 0.06). Conclusions and Relevance These data suggest that Chinese American individuals have longer AL and greater contribution of AL to RE than do Latino and other Chinese populations. Future studies should explore risk factors for increased AL in Chinese Americans and potential interventions that may ultimately prevent myopia-related disease.
Accounting for Model Error from Unresolved Scales in Ensemble Kalman Filters by Stochastic Parameterization

AbstractThe use of discrete-time stochastic parameterization to account for model error due to unresolved scales in ensemble Kalman filters is investigated by numerical experiments. The parameterization quantifies the model error and produces an improved non-Markovian forecast model, which generates high quality forecast ensembles and improves filter performance. Results are compared with the methods of dealing with model error through covariance inflation and localization (IL), using as an example the two-layer Lorenz-96 system. The numerical results show that when the ensemble size is sufficiently large, the parameterization is more effective in accounting for the model error than IL; if the ensemble size is small, IL is needed to reduce sampling error, but the parameterization further improves the performance of the filter. This suggests that in real applications where the ensemble size is relatively small, the filter can achieve better performance than pure IL if stochastic parameterization methods ar...
Rapid one-step extraction method for the identification of molds using MALDI-TOF MS

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has revolutionized fungal identification. Previously, we developed a MALDI-TOF MS mold extraction procedure and comprehensive database. While MALDI-TOF MS has become routine in a few laboratories, it has not yet become widespread. A major obstacle is the lack of a simple, reproducible and uniform protein extraction procedure. In this study, we developed and validated a rapid one-step protein extraction protocol for filamentous fungi. Excised molds were placed into tubes containing zirconia-silica beads and extraction solution without washing or ethanol inactivation steps. Extraction solutions containing different ratios of acetonitrile and formic acid were evaluated. Samples were then processed using a PowerLyzer high power bead based homogenizer and supernatants spotted for MALDI-TOF MS. The rapid method was evaluated prospectively and in parallel to our current mold extraction protocol for 3 months. Analysis of 106 clinical mold isolates resulted in an improved performance and a decrease in extraction time by 30 minutes to a total of 5 minutes of hands-on time. Acceptable identification scores (≥ 2.00) were achieved for up to 63.0% of mold isolates by the rapid method compared with 52.8% of isolates by the current routine protocol. Score comparisons between duplicate spots showed higher reproducibility of the rapid method as compared to the routine method. The rapid extraction method allows efficient analysis of clinical mold isolates both in scheduled batch runs and on an in-demand basis while providing a simple starting platform for laboratories adopting MALDI-TOF MS for mold identification.
Deprenyl in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease: clinical effects and speculations on mechanism of action

Selegiline is a relatively selective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type B that has been used in Parkinson’s disease as an adjunct to levodopa and as putative neuroprotective therapy. Clinical trials demonstrate that selegiline slows the rate of disease progression and delays the appearance of disability necessitating levodopa. However, confounding symptomatic effects have made it difficult to ascertain the presence of any direct neuroprotective effect. Laboratory studies demonstrate that selegiline protects dopaminergic neurons through a mechanism that does not involve MAO-B inhibition. Recent studies suggest that neuroprotection in laboratory models may be related to the capacity of selegiline to up-regulate a series of anti-oxidant and antiapoptotic molecules which promote cell survival. Further delineation of the precise mechanism whereby selegiline induces this effect may permit for the development of enhanced neuroprotective benefits in PD patients.
Abstract 5587: Sample quality control of cell-free DNA

Sequencing of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extracted from blood specimens or other body fluids is possible due to the establishment of low input library protocols for next-generation sequencing workflows. Accurate quantification of cfDNA samples is essential to determine suitable input amounts for cfDNA library preparation prior to sequencing. The main component of cfDNA samples is the mononucleosome with a size around 170 bp, sometimes with additional species representing nucleosome multimers. Further, cfDNA samples may contain larger DNA fragments dependent on the donor9s health status, preanalytical sample treatment, or extraction method. High molecular weight material can negatively influence library preparation and subsequently result in lower sequencing depth. Therefore, reliable quantification of cfDNA requires a method that separates DNA fragments by size, such as electrophoresis. This poster shows the use of a new cfDNA assay for the 2100 Bioanalyzer system as an add-on for the High Sensitivity DNA assay. The assay enables automated cfDNA quantification with pre-defined regions. Moreover, the results include sample purity as a score to qualify cfDNA samples according to their contamination level with high molecular weight material. The features of the assay are described with examples of typical sample patterns. Citation Format: Melissa H. Liu, Eva Graf. Sample quality control of cell-free DNA [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5587.
Using a Nurse-Led Telehealth Intervention to Improve Fasting Glucose Levels in Patients With Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes Undergoing a Surgical Intervention.

Background Uncontrolled diabetes during the perioperative period can result in a variety of adverse postoperative outcomes. Objective Evaluate a nurse-led telehealth preoperative intervention to improve glycemic control. Methods Provide telehealth diabetes education prior to surgery and evaluate time spent and pre-/post-glucose levels. Between-group differences were used to assess glycemic control. Results There was no significant difference in scores for those who received the telephone intervention (M = 167.71, SD = 59.9) and those who did not receive the intervention (M = 171.44, SD = 54.9; t (44) = 0.220, p = .82, two-tailed). The magnitude of the differences in the means was very small (Cohen's d = 0.03). There was a reduction in pre- and post-glucose levels for both groups. Conclusions Although the findings were not statistically significant, there may be some clinical significance. Implications for nursing The clinical significance has implications for nursing due to participants choosing to delay surgery and potentially preventing adverse outcomes.
Reasons for engagement with online tobacco marketing among US adolescents and young adults.

INTRODUCTION Engagement with online tobacco marketing among US adolescents increased from nearly 9% (2013-2014) to 21% (2014-2015). Such engagement increases the risk of tobacco use initiation. Despite the increase in the prevalence of and risks associated with engagement, the reasons why adolescents and young adults engage are not known. METHODS A sample of 2619 adolescents (13-17 years) and 2625 young adults (18-24 years) living in the US participated in an online survey in July-August 2017. Engagement with online tobacco marketing was assessed through five forms of engagement (e.g. watched a video online promoting tobacco products). Reasons for engagement were assessed through an open-ended survey question. Prevalence of reasons for engagement was calculated overall, by tobacco use status, and by age group (adolescents and young adults). Multivariable logistic regression models were fit with engagement as the outcome (overall and specific reasons) and sociodemographics (including age, gender, and race/ethnicity) and tobacco use status (non-susceptible and susceptible never tobacco users; ever, but not past 30-day tobacco users; and past 30-day tobacco users) as covariates. RESULTS Across all tobacco use statuses, the leading reasons for engagement were curiosity or desire for general knowledge about tobacco products (3.9%); incidental, unintended or forced exposure to tobacco ad (3.8%); and seeking discounts, coupons, incentives, or contests (2.9%). Susceptible never tobacco users were more likely to engage because of curiosity or general knowledge than non-susceptible never tobacco users (adjusted odds ratio, AOR=6.81; p<0.01). Past 30-day tobacco users were more likely to engage because of discounts, coupons, incentives, or contests and product appeal than ever, but not past 30-day tobacco users (AOR=7.10; p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Stricter state and federal regulation of tobacco marketing, specifically tobacco ads and coupons, and stronger self-regulation by social networking sites could reduce youth engagement with online tobacco marketing.
Proposal and verification of auto calibration technique for bias control circuit connecting to imperfect IQ-modulator

We show that imperfection in an IQ-modulator degrades the accuracy of the auto bias control circuit connected to the modulator's complementary port, and propose an auto calibration technique that can effectively suppress this degradation.
A Control Strategy for Driver Specific Driver Assistant System to Improve Fuel Economy of Connected Vehicles in Urban Roads

In this paper, we focus on developing a fuel economic driver specific driver assistant system's control strategy for multiple connected vehicles in urban road conditions. The control strategy is considered to work in a driver assistance framework where the controller provides command to a driver to follow while considering the ability of the driver in following control commands. Our proposed method uses vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, exploits traffic lights' Signal Phase and Timing (SPAT) information, models driver error injection with Markov chain, and employs scenario tree based stochastic model predictive control to improve vehicle fuel economy and traffic mobility. The proposed strategy is distributed in nature as every vehicle evaluates its own strategy using only locally available information. Simulation results show improvement in fuel efficiency when driver error injection is considered while synthesizing fuel economic controllers in a driver assistance fashion.
Growth, Cell Division, and Gene Expression of Escherichia coli at Elevated Concentrations of Magnesium Sulfate: Implications for Habitability of Europa and Mars

We perform quantitative studies of the growth, death, and gene expression of Escherichia coli in a wide range of magnesium sulfate (MgSO 4 ) concentrations (0-2.5 M). Elevated concentration of MgSO 4 causes the inhibition of cell growth, leading to an increase in the population doubling time. We find that cells exhibit three distinct morphological phenotypes-(i) normal, (ii) filamentous, and (iii) small cells at 1 . 25 M MgSO 4 . Filamentous cells arise due to the lack of cell division, while the small cells arise due to the partial plasmolysis of the cells. We further find that cell death starts for salt concentrations >1.25 M and increases with an increasing concentration of MgSO 4 . For salt concentrations ≥1.66 M, the growth of cells stops and all the cells become smaller than the control cells, suggesting the plasmolysis of the population. Cells grown at salt concentration up to 2 . 07 M are reversible in both the growth rate and morphology upon the removal of the salt stress. The time scale of reversibility increases with increasing salt concentration. Finally, we investigate the expression of an osmotically inducible gene (osmC), genes involved in magnesium transport (corA), sulfate transport (cysP), and osmotically driven transport of water (aqpZ). We find that a high concentration of magnesium sulfate leads to the upregulation of cysP and osmC.
Molecular Studies of Peptide Assemblies and Related Applications in Tumor Therapy and Diagnosis

Peptides and proteins are known to form a variety of aggregate forms via assembling processes with significant dependence on sequences, which is characteristic for amyloid-like structures. Such peptides could be explored as diagnostic probes targeting tumor antigens. Nanostructured peptide aggregates have been shown to improve the binding affinity and selectivity to the tumor-associated antigens, and can also enhance the antitumor efficacy. The insight of the aggregation and assembly propensities of peptide and protein structures could provide a basis for developing diagnosis and therapeutics for a variety of diseases. An important subject under study is the formation mechanism of peptide assemblies at the level of individual amino acids. This effort could lead to the insight of assembly propensity of peptide molecules. In this chapter, we will review the representative progress on studying aggregation propensity of peptides based on the high-resolution structural analysis of peptide assemblies. It will be presented that these efforts could advance our insight into the peptide assembly mechanisms, as well as provide potential venues for developing peptide-aggregate-based tumor therapeutic strategies.
Detecting de novo mitochondrial mutations in angiosperms with highly divergent evolutionary rates

Although plant mitochondrial genomes typically show low rates of sequence evolution, the levels of sequence divergence in certain angiosperm lineages suggest anomalously high mitochondrial mutation rates. However, de novo mutations have never been directly analyzed in such lineages. Recent advances in high-fidelity DNA sequencing technologies have enabled detection of mitochondrial mutations when still present at low heteroplasmic frequencies. To date, these approaches have only been performed on a single plant species (Arabidopsis thaliana). Here, we apply a high-fidelity technique (Duplex Sequencing) to Silene, an angiosperm genus that exhibits extreme heterogeneity in rates of mitochondrial sequence evolution among close relatives. Consistent with phylogenetic evidence, we found that S. latifolia maintains low mitochondrial variant frequencies that are comparable to previous measurements in Arabidopsis. Silene noctiflora also exhibited low variant frequencies despite high levels of historical sequence divergence, which supports other lines of evidence that this species has reverted to lower mitochondrial mutation rates after a past episode of acceleration. In contrast, S. conica shows much higher variant frequencies, indicating an ongoing bout of elevated mutation rates. Moreover, we found an altered mutational spectrum in S. conica with a heavy bias towards AT[->]GC transitions (and to a lesser extent AT[->]CG transversions). We also observed an unusually low number of mitochondrial genome copies per cell in S. conica, potentially pointing to reduced opportunities for homologous recombination to accurately repair mismatches in this species. Overall, these results indicate that historical fluctuations in mutation rates are driving extreme variation in rates of plant mitochondrial sequence evolution.
Future Heat Risk in South Asia and the Need for Ecosystem Mitigation

Cities in South Asia commonly experience high heat events. These so-called heat waves, however, are increasing in intensity and are projected to increase in frequency, as the climate continues to change. Given the large and growing urban population in the region, urban planners need information on the state and trends of urban heat, the risk of this heat to human wellbeing, and ways to modify heat within the city. This chapter attempts to broadly address these issues by providing an overview of the state and trends of urban heat, urban heat-island formation, urbanization, climate change-related future heat, human risk to heat waves, and the potential for ecosystem mitigation in South Asia. The chapter complements other chapters in this volume by providing the background to the importance of future heat shock events and the potential for blue-green infrastructure to address these hazards.
Biochar as a novel carbon-negative electron source and mediator: electron exchange capacity (EEC) and environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs): a review

Abstract Biochar is the pyrolysis product of biomass that has been explored as an effective adsorbent for its high specific surface area, large porosity, and numerous surface functional groups. Recently, there is a renewed interest in biochar thanks to the recognition of its strong electron exchange capacity (EEC), which enables it to store and shuttle electrons to break down contaminants. Environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) are an inherent property of biochar, and have been found to be an important contributing factor of the biochar EEC due to its strong electron donating capacity. This review provides a compressive analysis of recent advances in the EEC of biochar, focusing primarily on the mechanisms of EEC formation, factors affecting it and biochar applications in environmental cleanup. Pyrolysis temperature and properties of feedstock materials are two dominant factors governing the EEC of biochar. The temperature is important because it affects the characteristics of oxygen functional groups (OFGs) in biochar and high pyrolysis temperature (greater than .600 °C) will graphitize carbon which shuttles electrons but does not directly participate in redox reactions. The impact of feedstock on biochar mainly derives from the differences in feedstock compositions which contain different OFGs. Following the elucidation of the EEC formation and stability, applications of biochar as an electron mediator are given, and main knowledge gaps and research needs to further advance the understanding and applications of biochar EEC are discussed.
Philosophical Issues in Doctoral Education in Social Work

Although debate continues about philosophical, especially epistemological, issues in social work, little attention has been given to doctoral education and curricula in this area. This article reports on a 1997 survey of doctoral program directors about the inclusion of philosophical issues in the curriculum and their satisfaction with it. The survey asks about traditional and emergent epistemologies, including heuristics, social constructivism, and other forms of postmodernism. Responses to Likert-type and open-ended questions suggest that such content is commonly included in research courses, but that program directors face tensions with including content on epistemologies other than logical positivism.
Stone Decay by Plants and Animals

Plants and animals can attack stone to a large extent both by mechanical and by chemical action. While the action of higher plants may be both mechanical and chemical, bacteria, the lowest kind of life, attack by chemical means only. The biotic decay is very complex and this topic has been deplorably neglected in the past.
Development and Preliminary Psychometric Testing of the Centrality of Pain Scale

Objective. The objective of the study was to develop and begin to evaluate a new measure of the centrality of pain in patients' lives. Design. The study was designed as a cross-sectional survey and cognitive interviews. Setting. The study was set in an academic general internal medicine clinic. Patients. Sixty-five adult internal medicine patients with chronic nonmalignant pain (CNMP) participated in the study. Outcome Measures. We assessed content validity and clarity of the 10-item Centrality of Pain Scale (COPS) by soliciting feedback from chronic pain experts and by conducting cognitive interviews with patients with CNMP. We assessed internal consistency reliability using Cronbach's alpha. We assessed construct validity by comparing the COPS with other measures of chronic pain morbidity including pain severity, depression, anxiety, physical and mental health function, posttraumatic stress disorder, quality of life, and provider assessment. Results. Health care providers felt the COPS had excellent face validity. Cognitive interviews revealed that patients' understanding of the items matched the intended construct, the scale measured an important concept, and items were easy to understand. The COPS had excellent internal consistency (alpha = 0.9). It was negatively associated with age (r = −0.29; P = 0.02), but not with other demographic characteristics. Higher COPS scores were associated with poorer physical (r = −0.48; P < 0.001) and mental (r = −0.39; P = 0.002) health function, quality of life (r = −0.36; P = 0.004), and provider assessment of stability (r = −0.38; P = 0.004) as well as with greater pain grade (r = 0.55; P < 0.001), and depression (r = 0.63; P < 0.001). In multivariate analyses, age, physical and mental health function, and depression were independently associated with COPS. Conclusions. The COPS has excellent internal consistency and construct validity. Additional studies are needed to further validate the scale.
Computation of structural system properties, integer matrices, and Bipartite Graphs

The computation of the McMillan degree and structure at infinity for large scale uncertain models of the type known as Structural Transfer Functions (STF) have been shown to be equivalent to determining the maximal weight of associated integer matrices. These problems are equivalent to the class of “Optimal Assignment Problems” developed for the family of resource allocation studies. A new algorithm that exploits notions of “reduceness” of integer matrices and the notions of Bipartite Graphs associated with them is presented here. The complexity of the algorithm is examined and its performance with respect to known optimal assignment methods is considered in terms of features and demonstrated by examples.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GASTRIC PGE2 & H|[plus]| SECRETION IN THE BASAL |[lpar]|B|[rpar]| & STIMULATED |[lpar]|S|[rpar]| STATE

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GASTRIC PGE 2 & H + SECRETION IN THE BASAL (B) & STIMULATED (S) STATE
Micro-Scale Phenomena and Interface Dynamics

Interface dynamics deals with phenomena occurring at scales smaller than the macro-scale used so far in our analysis of casting and solidification, but larger than the atomic scale. This scale is usually called micro-scale (micrometer size). Phenomena occurring at this scale determine the microscopic shape of the interface. The two fundamental phenomena that determine interface morphology are grain nucleation and grain growth.
SIKH TEMPLE CARNAGE A message lost

Outrage. Shock. Remorse. The feelings were familiar. The turbaned individuals on the television screens were community members, citizens of the USA, your co-workers, helpful neighbors, your friendl...
Growth Stasis by Accumulated l-α-Glycerophosphate in Escherichia coli

Cozzarelli, N. R. (Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.), J. P. Koch, S. Hayashi, and E. C. C. Lin. Growth stasis by accumulated l-α-glycerophosphate in Escherichia coli. J. Bacteriol. 90:1325–1329.1965.—Cells of Escherichia coli K-12 can grow on either glycerol or l-α-glycerophosphate as the sole source of carbon and energy. The first step in the dissimilation of glycerol requires a kinase, and the initial process of utilization of l-α-glycerophosphate involves an active transport system. In either case, intracellular l-α-glycerophosphate is an intermediate whose further metabolism depends upon a dehydrogenase. When this enzyme is lost by mutation, the cells not only fail to grow on glycerol or l-α-glycerophosphate, but are subject to growth inhibition in the presence of either compound. Resistance to inhibition by glycerol can be achieved by the loss of glycerol kinase. Such cells are still susceptible to growth inhibition by l-α-glycerophosphate. Similarly, in dehydrogenase-deficient cells, immunity to exogenous l-α-glycerophosphate can be achieved by genetic blocking of the active transport system. Such cells are still sensitive to free glycerol in the growth medium. Reversal of inhibition by glycerol or l-α-glycerophosphate in cells lacking the dehydrogenase can also be brought about by the addition of glucose. Glucose achieves this effect without recourse to catabolite repression. Our results suggest that growth stasis associated with the over-accumulation of l-α-glycerophosphate is due to interference with other cellular processes by competition with physiological substrates rather than to depletion of cellular stores of adenosine triphosphate or inorganic phosphate.
High-pressure optical studies on sulfur to 121 GPa: Optical evidence for metallization.

The pressure dependence of the optical absorption edge to 78 GPa and the reflectivity to 121 GPa were measured in sulfur from 0.5 to 3.5 eV in a diamond anvil cell. Our optical results show no evidence of metallic behavior below 95 GPa. A discontinuous change in absorption was observed at 23 GPa. The absorption edge is about 1 eV at 50 GPa, the pressure at which poor metalliclike behavior of sulfur was suggested earlier based on the measurement of the temperature dependence of the electrical resistance. At 95 GPa the reflectivity has a sudden increase and reaches 62% in the infrared range at the sample-diamond interface at 121 GPa. We attribute this to pressure-induced metallization.
A new method for including locally based correlations in the electronic structure of cerium and uranium materials

Abstract We discuss certain general features introduced by f to p/d hybridization acting together with coulomb exchange in systems having strong on-site f-f coulomb repulsion. A systematic treatment of the consequences of hybridization and coulomb exchange quite naturally leads to a picture in which narrow bands of predominantly f composition with competing singlet-like and magnetic characters lie on top of broad bands of predominantly p-d character. In this picture, on taking account of the two-body correlations built into the narrow bands and properly including the temperature dependence of the chemical potential, one obtains thermodynamic properties, such as the specific heat and susceptibility, that change over in behavior at characteristic temperatures corresponding to the narrow-band width determined by the locally acting hybridization/coulomb exchange interactions. This is without the need to invoke some specifically resonant state interaction between the f-states and a collective state of the p/d band electrons.
Decreased patient charges following implementation of point-of-care cardiac troponin monitoring in acute coronary syndrome patients in a community hospital cardiology unit

Abstract Background The need to rapidly evaluate patients presenting to emergency departments and cardiology services for ruling in and ruling out acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is widely recognized as a clinical challenge. We determined the impact of incorporating point-of-care (POC) cardiac troponin I (cTnI) testing into a cardiology service regarding assay turn around time (TAT), patient length of stay (LOS), financial matrixes and patient outcomes compared to central laboratory cTnI testing. Methods Patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were enrolled pre-POC (PreCS, n = 271) and post-POC (PostCS, n = 274). POC cTnI determinations were performed at the bedside on the Dade Behring Stratus CS by nursing staff. Routine cTnI determinations were performed in the central laboratory (Dade Behring Dimension) by laboratory staff. Data were collected and analyzed on each patient per hospital stay by review of electronic medical and financial records. In addition, risk stratification outcomes for all cause death were determined at 30 days and 1 y following baseline sampling based on the 99th percentile cutoff concentrations of Results There was a decrease in time from blood draw to result to healthcare provider (PreCS mean 76 min; PostCS mean 19.5 min; p p = 0.05) from PreCS (2.36 days) to PostCS (2.19 days). cTnI reagents charges to the laboratory were higher for the POC assay, $10.54, vs. the central lab assay, $3.83. One year survival was greater in the 0.1 μg/l patients (PreCS 77.7%, PostCS 75.5%); both p Conclusions Our study demonstrates the cost effectiveness and clinical effectiveness of implementation of POC whole blood, cTnI testing for assisting clinicians with diagnostic and risk assessment of ACS patients.
Simulated home treatment of depression with nortriptyline

Abstract Peabody, Cecilia, James Van Norman, Leo Hollister and Dhyanne Warner: Simulated Home Treatment of Depression with Nortriptyline. Prog. Neuro-Psychopharmacol. & Biol. Psychiat. 1991, 15 : 63–70. 1. 1. Twenty-two patients hospitalized for treatment of depression were treated under conditions simulating those of home treatment. 2. 2. Full doses of nortriptyline, from 100 to 150 mg/day, were started after baseline observations were made. 3. 3. Two patients were dropped from the study, one for orthostatic hypotension, one for an aberrant response to nortriptyline. Two additional patients developed orthostasis which was easily managed. Otherwise no unusual side effects were noted. 4. 4. After six days of treatment, 9 of 20 patients showed significant improvement with an overall reduction in scores on the Hamilton Depression Scale of 49% for the entire group. 5. 5. Using the weight-adjusted dosage schedule, 18 of the 21 patients attained plasma concentrations of nortriptyline within the presumed therapeutic range; however, no clear relationship could be established between plasma concentrations and clinical response. 6. 6. With proper selection of patients, it should be possible to treat at home some patients who currently are considered to require hospitalization.
Estimation of nonrespondent BAC using a priori judgement

Two methods of adjusting for non-participation bias in roadside breath testing surveys are compared. Method 1 uses the assumption that the probability of measured BAC level conditional on a priori judgement of drinking is the same for respondents and nonrespondents. Method 2 uses the assumption that the probability of a priori judgement of drinking conditional on BAC level is the same for respondents and nonrespondents. Method 2 yields substantially larger estimated probabilities of high BAC for nonrespondents. Both methods can be supported by sound logical arguments. Method 2 is shown to yield negative probabilities, when applied to a large roadside survey sample, and is thereby rejected.
Optoelectronic Properties and Charge Transfer in Donor–Acceptor All-Conjugated Diblock Copolymers

All-conjugated block copolymers, which can self-assemble into well-ordered morphologies, provide exciting opportunities to rationally design and control the nanoscale organization of electron–donor and electron–acceptor moieties in optoelectronic active layers. Here we report on the steady-state and time-resolved optical characterization of block copolymer films and solutions containing poly(3-hexylthiophene) as the donor block and poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) with and without copolymerization with benzothiadiazole as the acceptor block. Transient absorption measurements suggest rapid charge transfer occurs in both systems, with higher efficiency observed in the latter composition. These results indicate that this class of materials has promise in preparing highly ordered bulk heterojunction all-polymer organic photovoltaic devices.
General relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations of the jet formation and large-scale propagation from black hole accretion systems

The formation and large-scale propagation of Poynting-dominatedjets produced by accreting, rapidly rotating black hole systems are studied by numerically integrating the general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic equations of motion to follow the self-consistent interaction between accretion discs and black holes. This study extends previous similar work by studying jets till t ≈ 10 4 GM/c 3 out to r ≈ 10 4 GM/c 2 , by which the jet is superfast magnetosonic and moves at a lab-frame bulk Lorentz factor of Γ ∼ 10 with a maximum terminal Lorentz factor of Γ ∞ ≤ 10 3 . The radial structure of the Poynting-dominated jet is piece-wise self-similar, and fits to flow quantities along the field line are provided. Beyond the Alfven surface at r ∼ 10-100GM/c 2 , the jet becomes marginally unstable to (at least) current-driven instabilities. Such instabilities drive shocks in the jet that limit the efficiency of magnetic acceleration and collimation. These instabilities also induce jet substructure with 3 ≤ Γ ≤ 15. The jet is shown to only marginally satisfy the necessary and sufficient conditions for kink instability, so this may explain how astrophysical jets can extend to large distances without completely disrupting. At large distance, the jet angular structure is Gaussian-like (or uniform within the core with sharp exponential wings) with a half-opening angle of ≈5° and there is an extended component out to ≈ 27°. Unlike in some hydrodynamic simulations, the environment is found to play a negligible role in jet structure, acceleration, and collimation as long as the ambient pressure of the surrounding medium is small compared to the magnetic pressure in the jet.
Lipid-mediated regulation of G protein-coupled receptor kinases 2 and 3.

G protein-coupled receptor-mediated signaling is attenuated by a process referred to as desensitization, wherein agonist-dependent phosphorylation of receptors by G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) is proposed to be a key initial event. However, mechanisms that activate GRKs are not fully understood. In one scenario, βγ-subunits of G proteins (Gβγ) activate certain GRKs (β-adrenergic receptor kinases 1 and 2, or GRK2 and GRK3), via a pleckstrin homology domain in the COOH terminus. This interaction has been proposed to translocate cytosolic β-adrenergic receptor kinases (βARKs) to the plasma membrane and facilitate interaction with receptor substrates. Here, we report a novel finding that membrane lipids modulate βARK activity in vitro in a manner that is analogous and competitive with Gβγ. Several lipids, including phosphatidylserine (PS), stimulated, whereas phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate inhibited, the ability of these GRKs to phosphorylate agonist-occupied m2 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Furthermore, both PS and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate specifically bound to βARK1, whereas phosphatidylcholine, a lipid that did not modulate βARK activity, did not bind to βARK1. The lipid regulation of βARKs did not occur via a modulation of its autophosphorylation state. PS- and Gβγ-mediated stimulation of βARK1 was compared and found strikingly similar; moreover, their effects together were not additive (except at initial stages of reaction), which suggests that PS and Gβγ employed a common interaction and activation mechanism with the kinase. The effects of these lipids were prevented by two well known Gβγ-binding proteins, phosducin and GST-βARK-(466-689) fusion protein, suggesting that the Gβγ-binding domain (possibly the pleckstrin homology domain) of the GRKs is also a site for lipid:protein interaction. We submit the intriguing possibility that both lipids and G proteins co-regulate the function of GRKs.
Intensified gradients for endogenous amino acid substrates for transport system L on injecting a specific competitor for that system

Abstract The injection into the rat of 8.1 mmoles of amino endo (±) -2- aminobicycloheptane-2-carboxylic acid per kg body weight intensified in 2 hr the gradients of several System L substrates characteristically maintained by the liver with respect to the blood plasma. The gradients of amino acids predominantly transported by systems other than L were not, with the exception of proline, significantly influenced. We interpret this effect on System L substrates as supporting the principal service of System L in net cellular exodus of these amino acids, although other factors in the effects are not necessarily excluded.
Instructional Technique Guide: Closed Reduction of the Supination-Eversion Stage IV (Weber Type B) Ankle Fracture

In this article we describe a method of closed reduction of a supination-eversion stage IV ankle fracture, complete with step-by-step instructions and a video depiction of the reduction maneuver.
Insight in Alzheimer's patients: results of a longitudinal study using three assessment methods.

Three direct measures of dementia insight were administered to 20 participants in a longitudinal Alzheimer's disease (AD) rehabilitation research project 1 and to subsets of these participants that completed one (N = 19), two (N = 12), and three (N = 6) years of program participation. The measures were: (1) responses to a discourse prompt question about AD (ADPQ); (2) endorsements of seven items on the Geriatric Depression Scale 2 (GDS) about the effects of dementia (separate analyses were done for two of the seven items that related specifically to memory and thinking); and (3) a sentence-completion exercise. Responses to measures 1 and 2 and the subset of 2 were quantified, tracked over time, and subjected to correlational analyses with age, Mini-Mental State Exam 3 (MMSE) score, and depression, as measured by total GDS score, and with each other.Major findings: There were no decreases in insight from baseline to year 1, 2, or 3, as measured by free responses to the AD prompt question. There was a signi...
Serotonin mediated changes in corticotropin releasing factor mRNA expression and feeding behavior isolated to the hypothalamic paraventricular nuclei.

Abstract Fenfluramine reduces hunger and promotes body weight loss by increasing central serotonin (5-HT) signaling. More recently, neuropeptides have been linked to the regulation of feeding behavior, metabolism and body weight. To examine possible interactions between 5-HT and neuropeptides in appetite control, fenfluramine (200 nmol/0.5 μl/side) was administered directly into the hypothalamic paraventricular nuclei (PVN) of male rats. Bilateral fenfluramine produced significant hypophagia and increased expression of PVN corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) mRNA and neuropeptide Y (NPY) mRNA in the arcuate nucleus within the first hour after drug administration. Fenfluramine's effects on feeding behavior and mRNA expression were blocked by PVN injections of a 5-HT1–2 receptor antagonist, metergoline (15 nmol/0.5 μl/side). These data suggest that 5-HT neurons targeting hypothalamic paraventricular CRF neurons may participate in an appetite control circuit for reducing food intake.
A clinical and radiographic study of the "safe area" using the direct lateral approach for total hip arthroplasty.

Abstract The purpose of this clinical and radiographic study is to determine whether the surgeon can remain within the 5 cm “safe zone” while using the direct lateral approach during total hip arthroplasty (THA) without endangering the superior gluteal nerve. The direct lateral approach was used in a prospective, consecutive series of 36 primary THAs in 31 patients performed by one surgeon. At the time of closure of the abductor muscle layer, a small metallic clip was placed at the superior extent of the incision into the gluteus medius. After surgery, the patients were mobilized on crutches with protected weight bearing for either a 6-week (hybrid THA) or 12-week (uncemented THA) period. Before surgery, and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, abductor strength and the Trendelenburg sign were measured by the same physical therapist. The vertical distance from the superior pole of the greater trochanter to the base of the clip was measured on all radiographs of the pelvis and corrected for magnification. Before surgery, only 25 of the 36 hips demonstrated abduction strength of 4 5 or greater. Three months after surgery, 34 hips had a grade of 4 5 or greater for abductor strength. The Trendelenburg sign was positive in 24 of 34 hips before surgery, in 5 hips at 3 months, in 1 hip at 6 months, but negative in all hips by 12 months. The clip was located 3.2 ± 1.3 cm (mean ± SD) vertically from the superior pole of the greater trochanter. In 34 of 36 hips (95%), the 5 cm safe zone was respected. There was no correlation between abductor strength and the distance of the clip from the superior pole of the greater trochanter. It would appear that, with careful surgical technique, the direct lateral approach can be safely performed without compromising the superior gluteal nerve.
Shoot induction competence and callus determination in Populus deltoides

Abstract The developmental stages of shoot regeneration competence and callus determination were examined for 15 genotypes of Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh. over a 1-year time period. The developmental stages were defined by transferring internodal stem explants from callus-inducing medium to shoot inducing medium after 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days, plus immediate culture on basal and shoot-inducing medium as controls. The number of shoots regenerated per explant and the number of explants regenerating shoots were then determined after 60 days in culture. Six genotypes were recalcitrant and failed to regenerate shoots. Two genotypes were initially competent for shoot regeneration and consistently regenerated the greatest number of shoots when cultured directly onto shoot inducing medium. Shoot regeneration for the remaining seven genotypes was significantly enhanced by culture on callus-inducing medium for 1–8 days prior to transfer to shoot inducing medium. When internodal explants were cultured on callus-inducing medium for 10 days before transfer to shoot inducing medium, all 15 genotypes failed to regenerate shoots. Regeneration of the nine genotypes that were not recalcitrant was enhanced over the one year period by repeated stock plant hedging. Stock plant hedging was performed by pruning stock plants in such a manner that approximately 4 cm of current stem growth remained. Stock plants were repeatedly hedged at three to four month intervals over the one year experimental period.
Intrinsic Rate Constants for Proton Transfer from a Monoketone to Amine Bases and Electrostatic Effects on the Intrinsic Rate Constants for the Deprotonation of Cationic Ketones by OH

Despite the central importance of monoketones as carbon acids, no intrinsic barriers or intrinsic rate constants for proton transfer to a standard family of bases such as amines have been reported. This paper presents the results of such determinations for the reaction of 2-acetyl-1-methylpyridinium ion (1) with secondary alicyclic amines. They yield log ko = 0.92 in water and log ko = 1.70 in 50% DMSO−50% water (v/v) at 20 °C. These intrinsic rate constants are lower than for any sterically unhindered carbon acids except for nitroalkanes, reflecting the strong π-acceptor character of the CO group as well as the strong solvation of the oxygen in the enolate ion. Rate constants, , for deprotonation of 1 by OH- have also been determined in water and 50% DMSO−50% water, with somewhat different results than those reported by Tobin and Frey (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1996, 118, 12253). The value in water shows a small positive deviation from a correlation of such rate constants with the corresponding pKa of 17 simple ...
Relationship of Mycelial Growth and Production of Oxalic Acid and Cell Wall Degrading Enzymes to Virulence in Sclerotium Rolfsii

(1985). Relationship of Mycelial Growth and Production of Oxalic Acid and Cell Wall Degrading Enzymes to Virulence in Sclerotium Rolfsii. Canadian Journal of Plant Pathology: Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 109-117.
Enhanced frame rate for real-time eye tracking using circular hough transform

Eye-gaze detection and tracking has been widely investigated and presented as a way of unconventional human computer interaction. This area has provided convenience for many fields of practical applications, such as assistive systems and technology for people with severe disabilities, virtual reality, driver assistance and monitoring systems. Many methods for eye tracking have been introduced in literature. In this paper, a real-time eye tracking system is presented. To locate the iris of the eye in the captured video frames, the system uses the Circular Hough Transform which aims to recognize circular patterns in an image. Generally, the speed of eye motion is not as high as the used video frame rate of 30 Frames per Second (FPS) which is the frame rate used in general live video. In other words, the eye cannot move as fast as 30 motions per second. This led to proposing an enhancement to the eye tracking system being presented. This enhancement improved the CPU processing time requirements. The enhancement presented in this paper suggests that not all captured live video frames need to be processed for eye detection because the same eye movement will be captured on multiple subsequent video frames. Processing only a subset of frames will be enough to detect all eye movements in the video. The required CPU processing time is improved by selecting the minimum accepted video frame rate sufficient for accurately detecting all eye motions in a video. This was investigated for both the low and high speed eye movements. For low speed eye movements, the improvement in required CPU time was 1500%. For high speed eye movements, it was 750%. The improvement in CPU time is general and applies to different eye tracking algorithms when using the proposed enhancement. These improvements are a result of the elimination of the redundant video frames which are no longer processed in the procedure of eye detection.