cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of a Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay to Target a Novel Group of Ammonia-Producing Bacteria Found in Poultry Litter

Ammonia production in poultry houses has serious implications for flock health and performance, nutrient value of poultry litter, and energy costs for running poultry operations. In poultry litter, the conversion of organic N (uric acid and urea) to NH(4)-N is a microbially mediated process. The urease enzyme is responsible for the final step in the conversion of urea to NH(4)-N. Cloning and analysis of 168 urease sequences from extracted genomic DNA from poultry litter samples revealed the presence of a novel, dominant group of ureolytic microbes (representing 90% of the urease clone library). Specific primers and a probe were designed to target this novel poultry litter urease producer (PLUP) group, and a new quantitative real-time PCR assay was developed. The assay allowed for the detection of 10(2) copies of target urease sequences per PCR reaction (approximately 1 x 10(4) cells per gram of poultry litter), and the reaction was linear over 8 orders of magnitude. Our PLUP group was present only in poultry litter and was not present in environmental samples from diverse agricultural settings. This novel PLUP group represented between 0.1 to 3.1% of the total microbial populations (6.0 x 10(6) to 2.4 x 10(8) PLUP cells per gram of litter) from diverse poultry litter types. The PLUP cell concentrations were directly correlated to the total cell concentrations in the poultry litter and were found to be influenced by the physical parameters of the litters (bedding material, moisture content, pH), as well as the NH(4)-N content of the litters, based on principal component analysis. Chemical parameters (organic N, total N, total C) were not found to be influential in the concentrations of our PLUP group in the diverse poultry litters Future applications of this assay could include determining the efficacy of current NH(4)-N-reducing litter amendments or in designing more efficient treatment protocols.
Modulatory effects of ascorbate, alone or with haloperidol, on a lever-release conditioned avoidance response task.

Abstract Pretreatment with ascorbate, a modulator of dopamine transmission in the striatum, enhances the ability of haloperidol, a dopamine antagonist, to induce catalepsy and block the motor-activating effects of amphetamine. The present study extended this line of work to a leverrelease version of the conditioned avoidance response (CAR) task, which is highly sensitive to changes in striatal dopamine. Adult male rats were trained to avoid footshock by releasing a lever within 500 ms of tone onset. Ascorbate (100 and 1000 mg/kg, IP) or vehicle was tested either alone or in conjunction with haloperidol (0.01 and 0.05 mg/kg, SC). Compared to vehicle pretreatment, 1000 mg/kg ascorbate alone or in combination with haloperidol impaired CAR performance by increasing avoidance latency. Latency to escape footshock was not impaired, ruling out a generalized motor deficit. In contrast, 100 mg/kg ascorbate alone or in combination with haloperidol had no consistent efects on CAR performance, even at a haloperidol dose (0.005 mg/kg, SC) known to potentiate dopamine transmission by preferentially blocking autoreceptors. Collectively, these results support an antidopaminergic action of ascorbate on striatal function, but suggest that this effect requires relatively high systemic doses.
Oral propafenone therapy for children with arrhythmias : efficacy and adverse effects in midterm follow-up

The use of oral propafenone was assessed in 57 children. Mean age was 4.8 +/- 5.2 years (range 1 day to 17 years). Twenty-three patients were less than 1 year of age (40%) and 10 were less than 1 month of age (18%). Arrhythmias included supraventricular tachycardia in 32 patients (57%), atrial flutter in six (10%), and ventricular tachycardia in 19 (33%). Cardiac diagnoses included: an otherwise normal heart in 30 (53%); unoperated congenital heart defect in 11 (19%); cardiomyopathy in nine (16%); and an operated congenital heart defect in seven (12%). Mean dose of propafenone was 13.1 mg/kg/day (range 8 to 15). Success (assessed by relief of symptoms and serial 24-hour ECGs) was achieved in 16 of 32 patients with supraventricular tachycardia (50%), three of six with atrial flutter (50%), and 8 of 19 with ventricular tachycardia (42%). Drug efficacy in patients with and without organic heart disease was 30% (8 of 27) and 63% (19 of 30), respectively (p less than 0.05). Mean duration of therapy in patients in whom the drug was effective was 22.9 +/- 13.2 months (range 6 to 60). Growth was unimpaired in all patients. A neonate with nonsustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia had sustained ventricular tachycardia during the second day of propafenone therapy at a dose of 13 mg/kg/day. Sustained ventricular tachycardia disappeared when the drug was discontinued. Another patient had an asymptomatic and transient increase in the glutamic pyruvic transaminase level. No adverse hemodynamic effects were observed. In conclusion, propafenone is an effective antiarrhythmic drug in children with normal hearts; it is less effective in patients with heart disease.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Perchlorate in an urban lawn environment

Environmental context. The extent of perchlorate contamination in our environment is inadequately known. We examined perchlorate content in precipitation, soil water, soil cores and grass clippings in an urban lawn environment. Our results show that perchlorate is present in the lawn environment at concentrations that may adversely affect human health. Abstract. Perchlorate contamination in groundwater is a concern owing to the likelihood that low concentrations of perchlorate may disrupt normal thyroid function. Lawns fertilized with perchlorate-containing fertilizers can adversely affect groundwater. We examined perchlorate concentrations from June 2006 to January 2007 in precipitation, grass clippings, soil cores and soil water at eight lawn environments in Suffolk County, NY, a county where lawns comprise more than 25% of the land use. Measured concentrations in soil waters were as high as 255 μg L–1, with average concentrations of 69 μg L–1 beneath sites treated with organic fertilizer, 1.2 μg L–1 beneath sites treated with chemical fertilizer and 0.34 μg L–1 beneath sites not fertilized. Although concentrations were dependent on the type of fertilizer applied, the patterns of leaching and grass uptake were similar at all sites.
Sensors of the innate immune system: their mode of action

The discovery of molecular sensors that enable eukaryotes to recognize microbial pathogens and their products has been a key advance in our understanding of innate immunity. A tripartite sensing apparatus has developed to detect danger signals from infectious agents and damaged tissues, resulting in an immediate but short-lived defense response. This apparatus includes Toll-like receptors, retinoid acid-inducible gene-I-like receptors and other cytosolic nucleic acid sensors, and nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain-like receptors; adaptors, kinases and other signaling molecules are required to elicit effective responses. Although this sensing is beneficial to the host, excessive activation and/or engagement by self molecules might induce autoimmune and other inflammatory disorders.
Lymphoid tissue structure and HIV-1 infection: life or death for T cells

Secondary lymphoid tissue (LT) structure facilitates immune responses and maintains homeostasis of T cells through production of survival factors, such as interleukin (IL)-7 that is 'posted' on the stromal fibroblastic reticular cell (FRC) network on which T cells traffic. Here, we examine the pathological changes that occur in LTs during HIV and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection. Immune activation leads to collagen deposition and loss of the FRC network itself. This decreases access to IL-7 and reduces the major source of IL-7, both of which deplete naive T cells to limit immune reconstitution with antiretroviral treatment. We discuss the implications of LT structure damage for the timing of antiretroviral therapy and consider the development of adjunctive antifibrotic agents to improve immune reconstitution in HIV infection.
Operative angiography by intraarterial digital subtraction angiography: a new technique for quality control of carotid endarterectomy.

Abstract Fifty patients who had carotid bifurcation endarterectomy as their sole surgical procedure underwent intraoperative completion angiography by means of portable intraarterial digital subtraction angiography. All had subsequent intravenous digital subtraction angiography or duplex scanning during early follow-up. After the endarterectomy site was closed and before the wound was closed, 6 to 8 ml of contrast was injected through a 21-gauge needle while fluoroscopy was performed with a conventional C-arm. The C-arm was coupled to a Qauntel IDIS Mobile Digital Subtraction Angiogram Unit (Qauntel Medical Products Group, Clemmons, N.C.) for image enhancement and immediate playback. There were no postoperative deaths or neurologic complications. Abnormal radiographic results led to reopening of endarterectomy sites in eight patients, which resulted in successful correction of the defects. There was a single asymptomatic occlusion of the internal carotid artery at 3 weeks in the patient with the only false-negative result on the completion study. Intraarterial digital subtraction angiography is a safe and useful technique for intraoperative quality control of carotid endarterectomy. It provides visual images that can be easily repeated in several projections, uses small volumes of contrast, and has no timing requirements for filming and injecting. (J Vasc Surg 1989;9:530–4.)
Freedom, Dependency, and the Care of the Very Old

Difficulties exist in making treatment decisions for the very old and dependent patient. In the years to come, these difficulties will increase. It is argued that such persons should not be abandoned to their "rights" as autonomous persons; yet quality of life judgments should also be avoided except in limited circumstances. Since aging is a process of becoming more dependent, the author proposes a dependency rule, by which greater responsibility for treatment decisions falls on care-givers as a person's dependency increases. In place of quality of life judgments he suggests a medical indications policy, if the latter includes restoration of some affective function. Five kinds of freedom are proposed, of which only some are lost in chronic illness and old age. Finally, it is suggested that life itself involves greater interdependence than the autonomy criterion itself can allow. The author focuses on the problem of dependency in the aged and the role an increase in this dependency plays, with corresponding loss of personal autonomy, in quality of life judgments. These, in turn, form the basis for treatment decisions.
Retention of a small replicase gene segment in tomato bushy stunt virus defective RNAs inhibits their helper-mediated trans-accumulation.

Abstract Tomato bushy stunt virus (TBSV) and other tombusviruses are notorious for their propensity to accumulate defective interfering RNAs (DIs) upon serial passage through experimental Nicotiana species. Hallmarks of this occurrence include reduced levels of helper RNA and protein accumulation and amelioration of the lethal necrosis induced upon infection of the host with the helper viruses alone. The objective of this study was to determine whether the prolific trans -accumulation of defective RNAs typically occurs for all replicase-deficient TBSV mutants, or if this process is influenced by internal cis -acting elements that have been excised from DIs. For this purpose, various replicase-deficient TBSV cDNA constructs were generated and their transcripts were tested for trans -accumulation competence in the presence of helper virus. The results revealed that a region of ca. 150 nucleotides near the center of the replicase gene, with a predicted high degree of secondary structure, was a potent inhibitor of trans -rescue (ITR) by TBSV. Relocation of the ITR into efficiently trans- replicating DIs inhibited their accumulation drastically, but only when inserted in the reverse orientation and with an intact 5′ ITR-specific predicted hairpin structure. Insertion of the ITR element in the positive orientation yielded DI transcripts that were able to replicate, but failed to interfere noticeably with either accumulation of the helper RNA or the onset of the lethal necrosis phenotype in N. benthamiana . In conclusion, the ITR has an intrinsic capacity to inhibit trans -accumulation of defective RNAs, but its stringency and biological effects are strongly influenced by the overall sequence context.
The temperature dependence of atomic displacements in potassium iodide

Abstract The atomic displacements in potassium iodide have been measured in the temperature range 100 to 600°K by X-ray diffraction methods. At all temperatures the K. + displacement was found to be greater than the I − displacement. A mass weighted average displacement is obtained and compared to that calculated from published frequency spectra. Excellent agreement is found at low temperatures and the explicit volume dependence seems to account for almost all of the non-linearity of \ gm 2 at high temperatures.
THE FITNESS FACILITY MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONNAIRE : A MEASURE OF REASONS FOR JOINING

This study describes the development of the Fitness Facility Membership Questionnaire of 43 items, designed to identify reasons for joining a fitness facility. Items were generated from responses to an open-ended questionnaire. A 50-item version of the questionnaire was completed by 152 members of five community-based fitness facilities. Principal components analysis with varimax rotation yielded 8 factors, accounting for 63.8% of the variance. The factors were labeled Socialization, Aquatic-related Facilities, Extrinsic Motivation, Recreational Facilities, Intrinsic Motivation, Resistance Equipment, Aerobic Equipment, and Amenities. The internal consistency of the eight factors was acceptable with Cronbach coefficients alpha ranging from .72 to .89. Discriminant analysis of responses is also presented.
Investigation of the formation mechanism and morphology of the features created in the interior of cornea by femtosecond laser pulses

Laser assisted corneal surgeries often rely on the nonlinear absorption effect of ultrafast lasers to induce features in the interior of the cornea without affecting the surface. In particular, corneal flap formation in femtosecond assisted Laser- Assisted in situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is based on the bubble creation. This study focuses on the interaction between the tissue and the femtosecond laser. Interior of cornea is treated with tightly focused femtosecond laser pulses. Due to the nature of the process, heating of the tissue within and around the focal volume is practically instantaneous. The affected region is subject to thermoelastic stress that arises with the steep temperature elevation. To predict the size of the region subject to the morphological changes due to the laser treatment, the temperature field is calculated. Cavitation bubble initiation and expansion process, which acts as precursor to the stress induced tissue trauma, is studied as well. Theoretical findings are compared against experimental results. High-speed camera is utilized to assess the laser treatment process, showing the temporal development of the cavitation bubbles. The results obtained in this study facilitate a better understanding of the effects of femtosecond laser assisted corneal surgeries and help in choosing optimal laser parameters.
Effects of amiloride on intracellular pH and thermosensitivity

Amiloride, a diuretic drug, is a potent inhibitor of Na+/H+ exchange through the plasma membrane, and has been reported to enhance thermal damage in tumor cells in vitro. We investigated the possible relationship between changes in the thermal response of SCK mouse mammary tumor cells in vitro and changes in intracellular pH (pHi) due to amiloride in the present study. At a concentration of 0.5 mM, amiloride reduced the shoulder (Dq) without causing significant change in the slope (Do) of the survival curve of SCK cells heated once at 43 degrees C. On the other hand, 0.5 mM of amiloride sensitized thermotolerant cells to heat as shown by a reduction in Do. The presence of amiloride during the interval between the first and second heatings slightly reduced or inhibited the development of thermotolerance. The pHi was measured with the BCECF fluorescence method. The presence of 0.5 mM amiloride significantly reduced pHi in both pH 7.2 and 6.6 medium. Heating the SCK cells at 43 degrees C in pH 7.2 or 6.6 medium also reduced the pHi. The combined effect of heat and amiloride in reducing the pHi of SCK cells was additive. These results suggest that the effects of amiloride on the thermal response of SCK cells might be mediated in part by a decrease in pHi. The possibility that the effects of amiloride on the thermal response of tumor cells are mediated by other biochemical changes, such as inhibition of protein synthesis, however, could not be ruled out.
Online virtual-patient cases versus traditional problem-based learning in advanced pharmacy practice experiences.

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of faculty-led problem-based learning (PBL) vs online simulated-patient case in fourth-year (P4) pharmacy students. Design. Fourth-year pharmacy students were randomly assigned to participate in either online branched-case learning using a virtual simulation platform or a small-group discussion. Preexperience and postexperience student assessments and a survey instrument were completed. Evaluation. While there were no significant differences in the preexperience test scores between the groups, there was a significant increase in scores in both the virtual-patient group and the PBL group between the preexperience and postexperience tests. The PBL group had higher postexperience test scores (74.8±11.7) than did the virtual-patient group (66.5±13.6) (p=0.001). Conclusion. The PBL method demonstrated significantly greater improvement in postexperience test scores than did the virtual-patient method. Both were successful learning methods, suggesting that a diverse approach to simulated patient cases may reach more student learning styles.
Molecular beam epitaxy grown long wavelength infrared HgCdTe on Si detector performance

The use of silicon as a substrate alternative to bulk CdZnTe for epitaxial growth of HgCdTe for infrared (IR) detector applications is attractive because of potential cost savings as a result of the large available sizes and the relatively low cost of silicon substrates. However, the potential benefits of silicon as a substrate have been difficult to realize because of the technical challenges of growing low defect density HgCdTe on silicon where the lattice mismatch is ∼19%. This is especially true for LWIR HgCdTe detectors where the performance can be limited by the high (∼5×106 cm−2) dislocation density typically found in HgCdTe grown on silicon. We have fabricated a series of long wavelength infrared (LWIR) HgCdTe diodes and several LWIR focal plane arrays (FPAs) with HgCdTe grown on silicon substrates using MBE grown CdTe and CdSeTe buffer layers. The detector arrays were fabricated using Rockwell Scientific’s planar diode architecture. The diode and FPA and results at 78 K will be discussed in terms of the high dislocation density (∼5×106 cm2) typically measured when HgCdTe is grown on silicon substrates.
High-level DSP synthesis using concurrent transformations, scheduling, and allocation

This paper addresses high-level synthesis methodologies for dedicated digital signal processing (DSP) architectures used in the iterative Loop-based Minnesota Architecture Synthesis (MARS) design system. We present a novel concurrent scheduling and resource allocation algorithm which exploits inter-iteration and intra-iteration precedence constraints. The novel algorithm implicitly performs algorithmic transformations, such as pipelining and retiming, on the data-flow graphs during the scheduling process to produce solutions which are as good as those previously published and which executes in less time. MARS is capable of producing optimal and near-optimal schedules in fractions of seconds. Previous synthesis systems have focused on DSP algorithms which have single or lumped delays in the recursive loops. In contrast, MARS is capable of generating valid architectures for algorithms which have randomly distributed delays. MARS exploits these delays to produce more efficient architectures and allows our system to be more general. We are able to synthesize architectures which meet the iteration bound of any algorithm by unfolding, retiming, and pipelining the original data-flow graph. >
The repeat travel market for Taiwan: A multi-stage segmentation approach

Despite the importance of market segmentation, the growth of the travel and tourism industry in Taiwan, and the repeat travel phenomenon in tourism, relatively few studies have examined the behavior of repeat travelers in the East Asia region. The present study was designed to fill this gap. This exploratory study applied multistage segmentation in the context of repeat travel behavior to Taiwan. It examined the socio-demographic profile, trip characteristics and expenditures of Taiwan inbound repeat travelers. The results indicated that nationality, income, type of travel arrangements and information search behavior significantly affected repeat travel behavior. In terms of travel expenditures, males spent significantly more than females. Those travelers between 40 and 60 years old tended to spend the most when they visited Taiwan compared to other groups. Chinese travelers were most likely to have traveled to Taiwan more than once among all nationalities compared in this study. Those from Korea and Japa...
Interfacial conformational modifications in a polypeptide

Abstract Poly-γ-methyl- l -glutamate (PMG) spread as a monolayer at the air/water interface is capable of existing either in the α (helix coil) or in the β (pleated sheet) conformations. By suitable choice of a spreading solvent, the investigator may control which conformation is dominantly present in the interface. The β conformer is characterized by a high surface viscosity which fails with rising temperature, while the a conformer at an equivalent surface concentration exhibits a relatively low surface viscosity which increases irreversibly with temperature. We interpret these results to mean that the a helices are partly denatured by the surface environment, while the intermolecular hydrogen bonds in the β structure are weakened by rising temperature. In no case examined by us in a complete denaturation of the a helices to the β structure observed.
Relation of Basal Metabolic Rate to Vasodilatation and Vasoconstriction of the Extremities of Normal Subjects as Measured by Skin Temperatures

Various indirect methods of measuring blood flow in the peripheral blood vessels of man are available. Irrespective of the method used for measuring blood flow, certain fundamental factors concerned with the status of the subject or patient influence the measurement of blood flow. These factors are environmental temperature, position of the extremities and food. The present investigation indicates that a consideration of the basal metabolic rate or basal heat production is another important factor.
Gene expression in closely related species mirrors local adaptation: consequences for responses to a warming world

Local adaptation of populations could preclude or slow range expansions in response to changing climate, particularly when dispersal is limited. To investigate the differential responses of populations to changing climatic conditions, we exposed poleward peripheral and central populations of two Lepidoptera to reciprocal, common-garden climatic conditions and compared their whole-transcriptome expression. We found evidence of simple population differentiation in both species, and in the species with previously identified population structure and phenotypic local adaptation, we found several hundred genes that responded in a synchronized and localized fashion. These genes were primarily involved in energy metabolism and oxidative stress, and expression levels were most divergent between populations in the same environment in which we previously detected divergence for metabolism. We found no localized genes in the species with less population structure and for which no local adaptation was previously detected. These results challenge the assumption that species are functionally similar across their ranges and poleward peripheral populations are preadapted to warmer conditions. Rather, some taxa deserve population-level consideration when predicting the effects of climate change because they respond in genetically based, distinctive ways to changing conditions.
Optic nerve involvement with panuveitis in Sweet syndrome.

Purpose: To report a case of a patient with optic nerve involvement in neuro-Sweet syndrome and review the literature on this systemic disease.Methods: Interventional case report and review of the literature.Results: A 49-year-old man developed an acute exacerbation of bilateral panuveitis and optic disc edema together with symptoms of a papular rash on his forearms, fevers, malaise, and arthalgias. Laboratory findings revealed an aseptic meningitis and neutrophilic leukocytosis. Biopsy of the skin rash demonstrated an intense neutrophilic infiltrate in the dermis consistent with the diagnosis of neuro-Sweet syndrome. The patient continued to require corticosteroids for inflammation control in spite of immunomodulatory therapies, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor infliximab.Conclusions: Sweet syndrome can present with optic nerve involvement. Screening for underlying etiologies, including autoimmune disease, malignancy, and offending drugs, is important for targeted therapy.
Multi-Point Degenerate Interpolation Problem for Generalized Schur Functions: Description of All Solutions

We consider the Nevanlinna-Pick-Caratheodory-Fejer interpolation problem with finitely many interpolation conditions in the class Sgk of meromorphic functions f with ∥f∥l∞(t) ≤ 1 and with κ poles inside the unit disk D. The problem has infinitely many solutions if and only if κ is greater than or equal to the number of non-positive eigenvalues (counted with multiplicities) of the Pick matrix P constructed from interpolation data. For each such κ, we describe the solution set of the problem in terms of a family of linearfractional transformations with disjoint ranges. The parameters defining this family are free and independent.
Penetration of living cell membranes with fortified carbon nanotube tips.

We have fabricated robust nanosurgical needles suitable for single cell operations by modifying multiwalled carbon nanotube (MCNT)-terminated atomic force microscopy (AFM) tips. Extra-long MCNT AFM tips were prepared and fortified with molecular layers of carbon to overcome mechanical instabilities and then coated with an outer shell of gold to promote chemical versatility. The terminal diameters of the final fabricated tips were approximately 30−40 nm, and the MCNT probes were several micrometers in length. We illustrate the capability of these modified MCNT tips to carry nanoparticulate payloads and to penetrate the plasma membrane of living pleural mesothelial cells at the smallest indentation depths (100−200 nm) and lowest penetration forces (100−200 pN) currently reported for these procedures.
Protein targeting: Getting into the groove

The 54 kDa subunit of the signal recognition particle has to identify a diverse family of substrates and deliver them in a controlled manner to the translocation machinery of the endoplasmic reticulum. Important new insights into the function of this sorting protein have emerged from recent biochemical and structural studies.
Free lung cell response of mice and rats to mainstream cigarette smoke exposure.

Male C57BL mice and F-344 rats were exposed through nose only to fresh mainstream smoke from one University of Kentucky Reference cigarette (2R1) daily under standardized conditions. At different exposure points, the lungs of room control (RM), sham control (SH), and smoke-exposed (SM) animals were lavaged and the number, composition, and properties of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells were studied. Significantly elevated levels of blood COHb and pulmonary aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity indicated effective inhalation of smoke by animals. The BAL cell analysis showed that cigarette smoke induced a five- to sevenfold increase in the number of BAL cells in mice following 10- to 12-week exposure. The proportion of neutrophils (PMN) increased to about 18±3% in SM mice as compared to <1% in controls. Cessation of smoke treatments returned the PMN levels to those of controls within 5 weeks. Unlike mice, smoke exposure for up to 32 weeks failed to induce appreciable changes in the number and proportion of macrophages and neutrophils in rats. Large brown macrophages were observed in SM groups of both species. Functional analysis demonstrated that the BAL cells from SM mice but not rats released greater amounts of superoxides than controls under resting and phagocytically stimulated conditions. Enzymatic analysis of macrophages showed that the activity of N-acetyllucosaminidase was increased in SM groups of both species. The activity of 5′ nucleotidase was significantly reduced in macrophages from SM mice but not rats. Activity of leucine aminopeptidase remained unaltered in both species. These results demonstrate distinct differences in the response of mice and rats to identically generated cigarette smoke.
New pharmacist supply projections: Lower separation rates and increased graduates boost supply estimates

Abstract Objective To revise the 2000 Bureau of Health Professions Pharmacist Supply Model based on new data. Design Stock-flow model. Setting United States. Participants A 2004 estimate of active pharmacists reported by the Bureau ofLabor Statistics was used to derive the base count for the 2007 supply model. Interventions Starting with a 2004 base of active pharmacists, new graduates are added to the supply annually and losses resulting from death and retirement are subtracted. Main outcome measures Age- and gender-based pharmacist supply estimates, 2004–2020 Results Increased U.S. pharmacist supply estimates (236,227 in 2007 to 304,986 in 2020) indicate that pharmacists will remain the third largest professional health group behind nurses and physicians. Increases were driven by longer persistence in the workforce (59%), increased numbers of U.S. graduates (35%), and increases from international pharmacy graduates (IPGs) achieving U.S. licensure (6%). Since more pharmacists are expected to be working part time the full-time equivalent (FTE) supply will be reduced by about 15%. The mean age of pharmacists was projected to decline from 47 to 43 by 2020. Because of unequal distribution across age groups, large pharmacist cohorts approaching retirement age will result in fewer pharmacists available to replace them. The ratio of pharmacists to the over-65 population is expected to decrease after 2011 and continue to fall beyond 2020; this is likely a reflection of baby boomers passing through older age cohorts. Conclusion The revised estimated active U.S. pharmacist head count in 2006 is 232,597, with equivalent FTEs totaling approximately 198,000. The substantial increase over the 2000 pharmacist supply model estimates is primarily attributable to pharmacists remaining in the workforce longer and educational expansion. U.S. licensed IPGs account for less than 6% of overall increases. The pharmacist workforce is projected to become younger on average by about 4 years by 2020. Coincident demands for more physicians and nurses over the same period and shortages in all three professions stipulate that active steps be taken, including continued monitoring of work trends among pharmacists and other health professionals.
Assessing Foreign Language Skills: Data from Russian

The purpose of this study was to assess the speaking, reading, listening, and writing proficiency of students of Russian after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years of study using tests based on the ACTFL proficiency scale in order to gather empirical data on proficiency levels currently attainable within the context of academic Russian language programs. The following questions were considered: (a) What are the proficiency levels of students of Russian in the four skills after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years of study? (b) Is there a significant positive correlation between proficiency levels in the four skills and levels of study, and what, if any, conclusions can be drawn from the findings with regard to basing language requirements of the ACTFL scale? (c) Is there a significant positive correlation among proficiency levels in the four skills? (d) What problems are associated with setting proficiency standards for foreign language (FL) study which are based on the ACTFL Guidelines? Results indicated that each additional year of study resulted in a decrease in the proportion of lower proficiency learners and a concomitant increase in the proportion of learners at the next higher level, but the picture of proficiency that emerged from this study is one of overlapping ranges of performances with no exact correspondence between levels of study and levels of proficiency in speaking, reading, listening, and writing. The correlations among the four skills were not particularly strong, suggesting that they follow different paths of development which do not always parallel each other. Concerns about using the 1986 AC7FL Guidelines for setting curricular goals for language study and for test development are discussed.
Effect of resistance training on lumbar extension strength

Development of a new testing machine, which stabilizes the pelvis, allowed us to evaluate the lumbar extensor muscles before and after training. Fifteen healthy subjects (29.1 +/- 8 years of age) trained 1 day per week for 10 weeks and 10 healthy subjects (33.7 +/- 16 years of age) acted as controls. Training consisted of 6 to 15 repetitions of full range of motion variable resistance lumbar extension exercise to volitional fatigue and periodic maximal isometric contractions taken at seven angles through a full range of motion. Before and after the 10 week training period, subjects completed a maximum isometric strength test at seven angles through a 72 degrees range of motion (0 degrees, 12 degrees, 24 degrees, 36 degrees, 48 degrees, 60 degrees, and 72 degrees of lumbar flexion). The training group significantly improved in lumbar extension strength at all angles (P less than or equal to 0.01). The result at 0 degrees (full extension) showed an increase from 180.0 +/- 25 Nm to 364.1 +/- 43 Nm (+102%) and at 72 degrees (full flexion) from 427.4 +/- 44.1 to 607.4 +/- 68 (+42%) Nm. Results from the control group showed no change (P greater than or equal to 0.05). The magnitude of gain shown by the training group reflects the low initial trained state of the lumbar extensor muscles. These data indicate that when the lumbar area is isolated through pelvic stabilization, the isolated lumbar extensor muscles show an abnormally large potential for strength increase.
Stability comparison between commercially available mini-implants and a novel design: Part 1

Abstract Objective: To compare mechanical stability among five mini-implant designs—a newly invented design and four commercially available designs that vary by shape and threading; to calculate external surface area of each design using high-resolution micro-computed tomography; and to evaluate the relationship between surface area and stability results. Materials and Methods: The four commercially available mini-implants—single-threaded and cylindrical (SC), single-threaded and tapered (ST), double-threaded and cylindrical (DC), double-threaded and tapered (DT)—and a new implant that is designed to engage mostly in cortical bone with shorter and wider dimensions (N1) were inserted in simulated bone with cortical and trabecular bone layers. The mechanical study consisted of torque measurements and lateral displacement tests. External surface area was computed using a 25-µm micro-CT. Results: Maximum insertion torque, maximum removal torque, and force levels for displacements were the highest in N1, follo...
Early cellular signaling responses to axonal injury

We have used optic nerve injury as a model to study early signaling events in neuronal tissue following axonal injury. Optic nerve injury results in the selective death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The time course of cell death takes place over a period of days with the earliest detection of RGC death at about 48 hr post injury. We hypothesized that in the period immediately following axonal injury, there are changes in the soma that signal surrounding glia and neurons and that start programmed cell death. In the current study, we investigated early changes in cellular signaling and gene expression that occur within the first 6 hrs post optic nerve injury. We found evidence of cell to cell signaling within 30 min of axonal injury. We detected differences in phosphoproteins and gene expression within the 6 hrs time period. Activation of TNFα and glutamate receptors, two pathways that can initiate cell death, begins in RGCs within 6 hrs following axonal injury. Differential gene expression at 6 hrs post injury included genes involved in cytokine, neurotrophic factor signaling (Socs3) and apoptosis (Bax). We interpret our studies to indicate that both neurons and glia in the retina have been signaled within 30 min after optic nerve injury. The signals are probably initiated by the RGC soma. In addition, signals activating cellular death pathways occur within 6 hrs of injury, which likely lead to RGC degeneration.
Gemcitabine directly inhibits myeloid derived suppressor cells in BALB/c mice bearing 4T1 mammary carcinoma and augments expansion of T cells from tumor-bearing mice.

Abstract Myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) accumulate in 4T1 mammary carcinoma bearing mice and present a barrier to the success of adoptive immunotherapy (AIT) by suppressing T cell immunity. In this study, we investigated the inhibition of MDSCs by gemcitabine (GEM), a chemotherapy agent that may have favorable immunologic effects. BALB/c mice were inoculated with 4T1 mammary carcinoma cells and treated with GEM either once a week starting 5 days after tumor inoculation (EARLY GEM) or as a single dose at days 20–25 (LATE GEM). Splenic mononuclear cells were isolated, activated in vitro, expanded, and stimulated with tumor antigen. T cells were then used for AIT to treat tumor-bearing mice. EARLY GEM treatment of 4T1 tumor-bearing mice significantly inhibited tumor growth, reduced splenomegaly, and significantly decreased MDSC proportion in the spleen. Support for a direct effect was demonstrated through suppression of MDSCs in spleens, bone marrow, and blood harvested 24 and 48 h after LATE GEM treatment, despite no significant decrease in tumor burden. Interestingly, treatment of tumor-bearing mice with GEM augmented in vitro expansion of splenic T cells and boosted IFN-γ secretion in response to stimulation by tumor antigen. However, despite GEM-mediated inhibition of MDSC suppression, splenic T cells from mice with advanced tumors were ineffective in vivo against established tumors. This study provides support for direct inhibition of MDSCs and direct reduction of tumor burden by GEM in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. GEM treatment of mice with advanced tumors improves T cell function and growth in vitro.
Removal of retained melt from LPE mercury cadmium telluride layers

Necessite de supports lisses et d'une croissance reguliere pour eviter le phenomene de retention qui ne semble pas pouvoir etre completement supprimer
Abstract 4091: RapidCap: A new generation of mouse models for prostate cancer.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Genetically Engineered Mouse Models are the gold standard for functional cancer research. However, the associated time and cost requirements severely limit their application. As a consequence, projects carry typically a high risk, are lengthy, and scientists become ‘locked in’ with a few chosen candidate alterations. To realize the full potential of mouse modeling technology we have developed RapidCaP, a system that relies on surgical gene transfer. Through prostate speciﬁc delivery of transgenic virus we can 1) reduce model generation times from several years to a few weeks, 2) test various genetic alterations such as loss or gain of function, alone or in combination, and 3) use non-invasive imaging to monitor disease progression. Using RapidCaP, we show that focal loss of Pten and Trp53 genes triggers prostate lesions within 2 months. Furthermore, we ﬁnd that this disease responds to castration by strong regression within several weeks, but it later relapses to produce lethal hormone refractory disease. Taken together, our approach establishes a novel platform for basic prostate cancer research and it realizes the goal of carrying out pre-clinical studies in genetically engineered mice. Citation Format: Hyejin Cho, Tali Herzka, Wu Zheng, Mireia Castillo-Martin, Carlos Cordon-Cardo, Lloyd C. Trotman. RapidCap: A new generation of mouse models for prostate cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4091. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4091
Differential ionization studies for positron impact

Recent studies of differential ionization by positron impact being performed at the University of Missouri-Rolla are described. Recoil ion-scattered positron and recoil ion-scattered positron-ejected electron coincidences are measured to provide doubly and triply differential ionization data (DDCS and TDCS) for e+ - Ar collisions. The DDCS and TDCS studies are for 750 and 200 eV impact respectively. For the TDCS studies the positron scattering angles are between approximately ± 5o and electrons ejected with energies less than 15 eV and angles between 90o ± 50o with respect to the beam direction are detected. Examples of TDCS data for the scattered positron and the ejected electron are presented.
Effect of Pressure, Moisture, and Cooking Time on Susceptibility of Corn or Sorghum Grain Starch to Enzymatic Attack

Abstract Sorghum grain ( Sorghum vulgare Pers.) and corn ( Zea mays L.), processed by various combinations of moisture, heat, and pressure, were evaluated in laboratory and animal tests. The laboratory test involved incubating the preparation with an amyloglucosidase (Diazyme L-30, Miles Chemical Co.) for one hour; increase in reducing sugars measured starch digestion. The animal test consisted of determining changes in blood glucose of young calves following ingestion of a meal of processed grain plus Diazyme L-30. Susceptibility of starch to enzymatic attack increased as pressure was increased by increments from 1.8 to 6.0 kg/cm 2 gauge pressure. Lengthening cooking from one to ten minutes was beneficial when small amounts of water were added to the grain but had no effect or was detrimental at higher moisture. There was a sharp decrease in corn and sorghum grain starch digestibility when the amount of water added before cooking was increased above 16% with a ten-minute cooking time. The same change occurred above 18% added moisture when cooking was only one minute. When five grain preparations were fed to young calves, the responses (increases in blood glucose) at one and two hours after feeding were in the same order as those obtained in the laboratory test.
Ages of Onset of Psychiatric Disorders in a Community Population of Older Adolescents

ABSTRACT Objective Ages of onset of psychiatric disorders, as well as the link between early onset and later psychosocial functioning, were examined in a community population of older adolescents. Method Subjects were 386 adolescents who were participants in an ongoing 14-year longitudinal study. At age 18, lifetime diagnoses and ages of onset of major depression, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance disorders were assessed using the NIMH Diagnostic Interview Schedule, Revised Version. Behavioral, emotional, and academic functioning in later adolescence were evaluated through self-report measures and school records. Results Almost one fourth of the adolescents met criteria for at least one disorder by age 14. Simple phobias emerged earliest (by early childhood), whereas for major depression and substance disorders the peak risk periods for onset were midadolescence. The early onset (by age 14) disorders was associated with continued impairments in behavioral and emotional functioning in late adolescence at age 18). Furthermore, the early onset of disorders, compared to later onset (ages 15 through 18), increased the risk for additional co-occurring disorders. Conclusions The striking levels of early psychopathology and associated long-term deficits in functioning found in this community population underscore the need for programs of early intervention.
Horizontal Water Trap for Measurement of Aeolian Sand Transport

A new type of horizontal trap was developed for measuring the aeolian sand transport rate on a flat surface. The trap consists of an adjustable frame that is embedded level with the sand surface, into which a plastic liner is installed and filled with water to capture the blown sand. The water trap has high efficiency and does not disturb the wind field or induce upwind scour. Deployment on Padre Island, Texas, indicated that this portable and adjustable trap catches and retains all the sand blown into it, even under relatively strong wind. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FLOW-INDUCED CONFORMATIONAL CHANGES AND PHASE BEHAVIOR OF AQUEOUS POLY-L-LYSINE SOLUTIONS

Poly-L-lysine exists as an α-helix at high pH and a random coil at neutral pH. When the α-helix is heated above 27°C, the macromolecule undergoes a conformational transition to a β-sheet. In this study, the stability of the secondary structure of poly-L-lysine in solutions subjected to shear flow, at temperatures below the α-helix to β-sheet transition temperature, were examined using Raman spectroscopy and CD. Solutions initially in the α-helical state showed time-dependent increases in viscosity with shearing, rising as much as an order of magnitude. Visual observation and turbidity measurements showed the formation of a gel-like phase under flow. Laser Raman measurements demonstrated the presence of small amounts of β-sheet structure evidenced by the amide I band at 1666 cm−1. CD measurements indicated that solutions of predominantly α-helical conformation at 20°C transformed into 85% α-helix and 15% β-sheet after being sheared for 20 min. However, on continued shearing the content of β-sheet conformation decreased. The observed phenomena were explained in terms of a “zipping-up” molecular model based on flow enhanced hydrophobic interactions similar to that observed in gel-forming flexible polymers. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Biopoly 45: 239–246, 1998