cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Re(CO)3([18F]FEDA), a novel 18F PET renal tracer: radiosynthesis and preclinical evaluation

Abstract Introduction Our previous work demonstrated that the 99m Tc renal tracer, 99m Tc(CO) 3 (FEDA) ( 99m Tc-1 ), has a rapid clearance comparable in rats to that of 131 I–OIH, the radioactive gold standard for the measurement of effective renal plasma flow. The uncharged fluoroethyl pendant group of 99m Tc-1 provides a route to the synthesis of a structurally analogous rhenium-tricarbonyl 18 F renal imaging agent, Re(CO) 3 ([ 18 F]FEDA) ( 18 F-1 ). Our goal was to develop an efficient one-step method for the preparation of 18 F-1 and to compare its pharmacokinetic properties with those of 131 I–OIH in rats. Methods 18 F-1 was prepared by the nucleophilic 18 F–fluorination of its tosyl precursor. The labeled compound was isolated by HPLC and subsequently evaluated in Sprague-Dawley rats using 131 I–OIH as an internal control and by dynamic PET/CT imaging. Plasma protein binding (PPB) and erythrocyte uptake (RCB) were determined and the urine was analyzed for metabolites. Results 18 F-1 was efficiently prepared as a single species with high radiochemical purity (>99%) and it displayed high radiochemical stability in vitro and in vivo . PPB was 87% and RCB was 21%. Biodistribution studies confirmed rapid renal extraction and high specificity for renal excretion, comparable to that of 131 I–OIH, with minimal hepatic/gastrointestinal elimination. The activity in the urine, as a percentage of 131 I–OIH, was 92% and 95% at 10 and 60min, respectively. All other organs (heart, spleen, lungs) showed a negligible tracer uptake ( 18 F-1 through the kidneys and into the bladder; there was no demonstrable activity in bone verifying the absence of free [ 18 F]fluoride. Conclusions 18 F-1 exhibited a high specificity for the kidney, rapid renal excretion comparable to that of 131 I–OIH and high in vivo radiochemical stability. Not only is 18 F-1 a promising PET renal tracer, but it provides a route to the development of a pair of analogous 18 F/ 99m Tc renal imaging agents with almost identical structures and comparable pharmacokinetic properties. These promising in vivo results warrant subsequent evaluation in humans.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor responses in humanized mouse melanoma models using patient-derived xenografts.

99Background: Melanoma patients develop resistance to both chemo- and targeted-therapy drugs. Promising pre-clinical and clinical results with immune checkpoint inhibitors using antibodies directed...
Direct-SV radiation produced by land-based P-sources — Part 1: Surface sources

AbstractWe use finite-difference modeling to illustrate direct-P and direct-SV radiation produced by land-based, vertical-displacement sources such as vertical vibrators and vertical impacts, sourc...
Factors affecting intention to disclose patients’ health information

Abstract Inadvertent violation of health information security by healthcare providers is a serious concern. Prior study identifies nursing students as the weakest link in health information security. Despite its potential significance in the context of health information security, nursing students’ deviant behavior has been under-investigated. To better understand this, this study develops a research model of nursing students’ behavior toward disclosing health information. This study identifies health information security awareness (HISA), medical assessment, and self-efficacy as factors affecting the behavior of disclosing a patient's health information. Our study empirically tests the model with data collected from 105 nursing students. We find that HISA directly affects intentions to disclose, while medical assessment mediates the relationship between HISA and intentions to disclose. We also find that HISA affects self-efficacy that, in turn, affects intentions to disclose via medical assessment.
Anatomy and biomechanics of the spinal column and cord

The field of biomechanics combines the disciplines of biology and engineering, attempting to quantitatively describe the complicated properties of biological materials. These properties depend not only upon the inherent attributes of its constituents but also upon how the constituents are arranged relative to each other. Its importance in understanding spinal column and spinal cord pathology cannot be overemphasized. This chapter is a primer on the application of biomechanical principles to the normal and pathological spine. The basic concepts of biomechanics will first be reviewed followed by a review of the structural anatomy of the osteoligamentous spinal column and the biomechanics of injury. Relevant spinal cord anatomy will then be addressed as well as current biomechanical theories of spinal cord injury.
Bi-Behavioral Prosthetic Knee Enabled by a Metamorphic Compliant Mechanism

Metamorphic mechanisms with two distinct behaviors were designed using compliant mechanism theory with a potential application as a prosthetic knee. The mechanism has discrete “locking” points to restrict rotation when under a compressive load. The designs use cross-axis flexural pivots, either in inversion or isolation, with engaging teeth to carry loads at distinct angles. Inverted compliant mechanisms function by inverting the mechanism so the compliant members are in tension when a compressive load is applied. Compliant mechanisms in isolation provide an alternative loading pattern which redirects the load to a passive rest. The mechanism incorporates teeth which engage during weight-bearing in flexion at up to 60° of flexion to lock the mechanism. When tension is applied to the device, the teeth are disengaged and the mechanism is allowed to rotate freely. The purpose of this design is to hold compressive loads both when un-flexed and flexed. The concept is applied in the preliminary design of a prosthetic knee joint. Proof-of-concept prototypes successfully demonstrate the metamorphic behavior.
Pfannenstiel versus Vertical Skin Incision for Cesarean Delivery in Women with Class III Obesity: A Randomized Trial.

Objective To compare Pfannenstiel versus vertical skin incision for the prevention of cesarean wound complications in morbidly obese women. Study Design Women with body mass index ≥ 40 kg/m2 undergoing cesarean delivery (CD) were randomly allocated to Pfannenstiel or vertical skin incision. The primary outcome was a wound complication within 6 weeks. Due to a low consent rate, we limited enrollment to a defined time period for feasibility. We conducted a traditional frequentist analysis with log-binomial regression to obtain relative risks (RRs), and a Bayesian analysis to estimate the probability of treatment benefit. A priori, we decided that a ≥60% probability of treatment benefit for either incision type would be convincing evidence to pursue a larger trial. Results A total of 648 women were approached, 228 were consented, and 91 were randomized. The primary outcome rate was 19% in the Pfannenstiel group and 21% in the vertical group (RR: 1.18; 95% confidence interval: 0.49–2.85). Bayesian analysis revealed a 59% probability that Pfannenstiel had a lower primary outcome rate. Conclusion In the first published randomized trial to compare skin incision types for obese women undergoing CD, we were unable to demonstrate differences in clinical outcomes. Our trial suggests that a larger study would have a low probability for different findings. Trial Registration NCT 01897376 ( www.clinicaltrials.gov ).
Nanoporous Sorbents for the Removal and Recovery of Phosphorus from Eutrophic Waters: Sustainability Challenges and Solutions

Increased industrial and agricultural activity has affected the availability of phosphorus (P) in nature and has caused a significant imbalance in the P cycle with long-term consequences on ecosystem health and sustainability. While P is an essential element for food production as well as plant and animal nutrition, it is also a limited nonrenewable resource whose availability is expected to decrease in the next century. Widespread application of P-based fertilizers and their excessive accumulation in water bodies leads to eutrophication which is associated with overgrowth of harmful algal blooms and degradation of water quality. This paper provides an overview of contemporary challenges and methodologies for improving P use efficiency and sustainability in the environment. Technologies and processes for the removal of P-containing compounds from water through the use of functional nanomaterial sorbents with tailored surface properties for capture, removal, and recycling are described. Various classes of ...
A Bayesian hidden Markov model for detecting differentially methylated regions

Alterations in DNA methylation have been linked to the development and progression of many diseases. The bisulfite sequencing technique presents methylation profiles at base resolution. Count data on methylated and unmethylated reads provide information on the methylation level at each CpG site. As more bisulfite sequencing data become available, these data are increasingly needed to infer methylation aberrations in diseases. Automated and powerful algorithms also need to be developed to accurately identify differentially methylated regions between treatment groups. This study adopts a Bayesian approach using the hidden Markov model to account for inherent dependence in read count data. Given the expense of sequencing experiments, few replicates are available for each treatment group. A Bayesian approach that borrows information across an entire chromosome improves the reliability of statistical inferences. The proposed hidden Markov model considers location dependence among genomic loci by incorporating correlation structures as a function of genomic distance. An iterative algorithm based on expectation-maximization is designed for parameter estimation. Methylation states are inferred by identifying the optimal sequence of latent states from observations. Real datasets and simulation studies that mimic the real datasets are used to illustrate the reliability and success of the proposed method.
Looks can be deceiving: Gaze pattern differences between novices and experts during placement of central lines.

Abstract Background The objective of this study was to determine whether gaze patterns could differentiate expertise during simulated ultrasound-guided Internal Jugular Central Venous Catheterization (US-IJCVC) and if expert gazes were different between simulators of varying functional and structural fidelity. Methods A 2017 study compared eye gaze patterns of expert surgeons (n = 11), senior residents (n = 4), and novices (n = 7) during CVC needle insertions using the dynamic haptic robotic trainer (DHRT), a system which simulates US-IJCVC. Expert gaze patterns were also compared between a manikin and the DHRT. Results Expert gaze patterns were consistent between the manikin and DHRT environments (p = 0.401). On the DHRT system, CVC experience significantly impacted the percent of time participants spent gazing at the ultrasound screen (p Conclusion Gaze patterns differentiate expertise during ultrasound-guided IJCVC placement and the fidelity of the simulator does not impact gaze patterns.
Frailty is Highly Prevalent in Lung Transplant Candidates and Varies by Frailty Tool

Purpose Lung transplantation is a lifesaving therapy in patients with advanced lung disease . However, frail lung transplant candidates are more likely to be delisted or die on the waitlist. There is a need to objectively identify frailty and assess potential reversible risk factors in potential lung transplant candidates. Methods We prospectively assessed frailty in 25 consecutive lung transplant candidates using the Fried Frailty Phenotype (FFP), Short physical performance battery (SPPB) tools and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). We determined prevalence and risk factors associated with frailty utilizing multivariable logistic regression analysis after adjusting for covariates. Results We evaluated 25 lung transplant candidates. The mean age was 60 ± 8 years, 9 of whom were female. Their primary diagnoses included COPD (24%), IPF (12%), ILD (28%) and Other (24%). Of the 25 lung transplant candidates, 12/25 (48%) were frail (7) or pre frail (5) by the SPPB and 23/25 (92%) were frail (8) or pre-frail (15) by the FFP (p diffusing capacity (DLCO) and increased frailty by SPPB. Conclusion Frailty is highly prevalent in lung transplant candidates but varies by the frailty tool. Frailty is associated with decreased DLCO . Further evaluation of risk factors for frailty and mitigation of these risk factors may enhance patient outcomes post lung transplantation. Further evaluation of frailty in larger populations are needed to validate these findings.
BaTiO 3 –Epoxy–ZnO-Based Multifunctional Composites: Variation in Electron Transport Properties due to the Interaction of ZnO Nanoparticles with the Composite Microstructure

Piezoelectric and electroactive composites are being investigated as a generation of self-powered energy harvesting devices for a wide range of applications. More specifically, three-phase piezoelectric composites are capable of maintaining high reliability, durability, and sensitivity, all while being economically feasible and nontoxic. In addition, three-phase composites can be tailored towards multifunctional applications depending on which material is incorporated as the third phase. The criteria that govern the applicability of these composites depend upon their electromechanical properties such as their impedance, resistivity, conductivity, and dielectric constant. Therefore, the present work involved fabrication of barium titanate–epoxy–zinc oxide (BT–Ep–ZnO) multifunctional composites, and study of the variation of their electron transport properties. The volume fraction of BT was held constant at 0.40, while the volume fraction of ZnO was varied from 0.01 to 0.10. The dipoles of the electroactive phases were aligned using a contactless corona plasma discharge poling technique. The impedance, resistance, conductance, and capacitance were measured over the frequency range from 20 Hz to 10 MHz. The geometry of the composites was measured and used to normalize the data by calculating the resistivity, conductivity, and dielectric constant. The piezoelectric strain coefficients, d33 and d31, were measured using a piezometer at frequency of 110 Hz. The fractured surface morphology and distribution of the particles were observed by scanning electron microscopy.
T154. WHITE MATTER INTEGRITY, DURATION OF UNTREATED PSYCHOSIS, AND ANTIPSYCHOTIC TREATMENT RESPONSE IN MEDICATION-NAïVE FIRST EPISODE PSYCHOSIS PATIENTS

Background It is becoming increasingly clear that longer duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with psychosis spectrum disorders. Especially because this association is often cited when justifying early intervention efforts, it is imperative to better understand underlying biological mechanisms.
Trichoderma infection of limno-terrestrial tardigrades.

Abstract Interactions between fungi and tardigrades have scarcely been described. The few studies that address such relationships suggest a primarily parasitic nature for various fungal taxa, including the infectious chytridiomycetes. The aim of this study was to determine the identity of a fungus growing on a tardigrade of the genus Diaforobiotus and if it could infect other tardigrade genera. Using morphological analysis and ITS barcoding, we identified a mold isolate belonging to the Trichoderma harzianum species complex and found that it infected Diaforobiotus tardigrades, as well as animals in the eutardigrade genus Milnesium, and heterotardigrade genus Viridiscus.
Naloxone dispensing among the commercially insured population in the United States from 2015 to 2018.

Abstract The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain recommends that providers consider co-prescribing naloxone when factors that increase the risk of overdose are present. Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist that counteracts the effects of an opioid overdose. This paper explores trends in naloxone dispensing and out-of-pocket costs among commercially insured individuals in the United States. Administrative claims data from the IBM Watson Health MarketScan database are analyzed to assess trends in naloxone dispensing from 2015 to 2018. Descriptive statistics on concurrent dispensing of naloxone with opioid analgesics are performed among several at-risk populations. The rate of commercially insured individuals being co-dispensed naloxone increased between 2015 and 2018 across all population sub-groups. In 2018, 16.2 individuals were co-dispensed naloxone for every 1000 receiving an opioid dosage ≥ 90 MME/day compared to 0.9 in 2015, 27.6 individuals were co-dispensed naloxone for every 1000 concurrently dispensed benzodiazepines and an opioid dosage ≥ 90 MME/day compared to 7.6 in 2015, and 43.7 individuals were co-dispensed naloxone for every 1000 receiving an opioid dosage ≥90 MME/day with a past overdose compared to 17.6 in 2015. Median out-of-pocket cost for naloxone increased from $12 in 2015 to $25 in 2018. Despite increases in naloxone dispensing from 2015 to 2018, the provision of naloxone to the commercially insured population remains low. Opportunities remain to increase the supply of naloxone to at-risk populations. Considering ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs associated with naloxone may be a potential strategy to increase access to this life-saving drug.
Dialectical Theology and Jacques Ellul: An Introductory Exposition

In Dialectical Theology and Jacques Ellul, Jacob E. Van Vleet argues that the work of Jacques Ellul is frequently - and deleteriously - misread on account of inattention to the theological underpinning that governs Ellul's thought. In a penetrating analysis, the first of its kind, Van Vleet provides a substantive account of the theological structure of Ellul's work and demonstrates the determinative role that theology, especially dialectical theology, plays in a proper understanding of Ellul. Van Vleet offers a major introduction to Ellul's thought, his contribution to theology and philosophy, and how his philosophy of technology is both theologically informed and culturally relevant. As well, this work situates Ellul's theological and philosophical thought within an important genetic context, from Kierkegaard to the dialectical theologians of the twentieth century.
Transient Rectilinear Motion of Mechanical Systems

You are already familiar with many types of mechanical systems that may undergo oscillations, or back and forth repetitive motions. They can occur in many mechanical systems including:
The Regulation of Genetic Engineering

Despite the important social implications of genetic research, proposals for government control, guided by cost-benefit analysis, are ill-advtied. Continued public discussion and informal regulation by the medical-scientific community are at present more appropriate.
Bile acids. LXXII. High-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of bile acid coenzyme A derivatives.

Abstract The mobilities of coenzyme A and coenzyme A derivatives of cholate, chenodeoxycholate, deoxycholate, lithocholate, and their 5α analogs were studied in reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. With a C18 Radial-PAK A cartridge (10-μm particles) and a solvent misture of 2-propanol/10 m m phosphate buffer (pH 7.0, 140360), separation of the chenodeoxycholyl and deoxycholyl coenzyme A derivatives was not observed. An increase in ionic strength of the buffer to 50 m m afforded separation, which was markedly augmented with a C18 Radial-PAK A cartridge with 5-μm particles. Lowering the pH of the buffer to 5.5 did not materially change the separations regardless of the ionic strength. Quantitation was carried out to a lower level of 8.5 × 10−12 mol.
Acid- and acid/rennet-curd cheeses part C: Acid-heat coagulated cheeses

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the acid-heat coagulated cheeses that are generally fresh, soft, unripened varieties manufactured from whole milk (e.g., Queso Blanco, Paneer), cream (e.g., Marscapone), or whey or whey blends (e.g., Ricotta, Ricottone). After acidification, the curds are allowed to settle and then trenched in the vat to facilitate whey drainage. Information on the microbiological quality of Queso Blanco made in the United States or Canada by methods described in this chapter is limited, even though poor keeping qualities of such cheeses made by different methods have been reported. Traditionally, the starting material used for the manufacture of Ricotta cheese is whey, resulting from Mozzarella cheese production. Ricotta has a relatively short shelflife of about three weeks if properly packaged and stored at 4°C or lower, although Kosikowski reported a shelflife of 70 days for whole milk.
Chapter 15 Clean chemical processing: Cleaner production and waste

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a tested-engineering method that leads business and design personnel to discover a process improvement that reduces waste generation, reduce resource requirements to manufacture product(s), and increases revenues to the business. Even though these engineering methods and practices were developed for chemical processes, the same techniques can be applied to any manufacturing process. It is suggested that approach is for the engineer to think outside the “box,” that is, to look at the manufacturing process from the back to the front end of the process. The EPA/DuPont, Michigan Source Reduction Initiative, and other cleaner production projects showed that: in a waste management (1) product changes are not required. (2) Any new investment has greater than 100% IRR. (3) Waste generation reduced by 40-50%. (4) The knowledge resides in the business; everyone in the business can contribute that is engineers, chemists, operators, and mechanics. (5) The design and operation of low waste generation processes is a human not a technical problem.
Emerging therapies: angiogenesis inhibitors for ovarian cancer

Introduction: Patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) have a high rate of recurrence, and overall survival remains at ∼ 25%. There is a need for new treatments that can increase progression free survival and quality of life. Recent clinical trials focus on angiogenesis, VEGFs, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors that play a role in recurrence, metastasis, and ascites in EOC.Areas covered: This review summarizes clinical rationale, mechanisms of action, and clinical data for angiogenesis inhibitors under evaluation in Phase II and III trials for EOC. Anti-angiogenesis agents reviewed in this paper include aflibercept, bevacizumab, cediranib, fosbretabulin, imatinib, nintedanib, pazopanib, saracatinib, sorafenib, sunitinib, and trebananib.Expert opinion: These agents have particular rationale for potential use in EOC due to the molecular changes associated with EOC tumorigenesis, namely a significant increase in angiogenic activity. Due to the costs and toxicities associated with anti-angiogenics, biomarke...
RESPONSE TO CO2 OF NEURONS IN THE ROSTRAL VENTRAL MEDULLA IN VITRO

1. It has been hypothesized that CO2-sensitive neurons are located in the rostral ventral medulla. To demonstrate this at the cellular level, perforated patch-clamp recordings were made from rat medullary slices in vitro. The effect of respiratory acidosis/alkalosis on the electrophysiologic properties of neurons was studied by recording membrane potential while changing the CO2 of the bath solution and allowing pH to vary. 2. At baseline, most neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (VLM) and rostral medullary raphe spontaneously fired repetitively at a regular rate (3.3 +/- 2.5 Hz, mean +/- SD) with a linear interspike ramp depolarization (n = 102 of 135). Spontaneous firing continued after synaptic blockade with high-magnesium, low-calcium solution (n = 14 of 15). Spontaneous firing of calcium spikes continued in tetrodotoxin (TTX; n = 13 of 13), but was blocked by TTX and cadmium (n = 4 of 4). 3. The effect of respiratory acidosis/alkalosis on neurons was examined by changing the CO2 of the bicarbonate-buffered bath solution within the range of 3-9%. Most neurons studied (n = 74 of 105) did not change their firing rate in response to this stimulus; however, some neurons were stimulated (n = 16) and other neurons were inhibited (n = 15) by increases in CO2. 4. In many CO2-stimulated neurons, the increase in firing rate caused by an increase in CO2 was associated with an increase in slope of the linear interspike ramp depolarization, whereas in many CO2-inhibited neurons the opposite occurred, i.e., an increase in CO2 resulted in a decrease in slope of the ramp depolarization. These changes occurred without a change in the level of afterhyperpolarization or spike threshold. 5. Whole cell patch-clamp recording invariably resulted in loss of spontaneous and stimulated repetitive firing over 10-40 min despite good resting potential, input resistance, and amplitude of single depolarization-evoked spikes. CO2 produced no change in membrane potential in neurons after rundown of repetitive firing. The loss of repetitive firing and CO2 sensitivity with whole cell recording required the use of perforated-patch recordings of membrane potential or cell-attached-patch recordings of spike transients to accurately study the baseline electrophysiologic properties and CO2 sensitivity of rostral medullary neurons. 6. Neuronal location was determined before each recording using direct visualization of living slices, and after some recordings using biocytin staining. CO2-stimulated and CO2-inhibited neurons were both found to have cell bodies in the rostral VLM, an area thought to contain central respiratory chemoreceptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Effect of citicoline on ischemic lesions as measured by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging

We examined the effect of the neuroprotective and neuroreparative agent citicoline on the growth of cerebral ischemic lesions in a double-blind placebo-controlled study involving patients with acute ischemic stroke using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI). Patients with acute ischemic stroke symptom onset 24 hours or less before the start of treatment, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores of 5 or higher, and lesions of 1 to 120 cc in cerebral gray matter by DWI were enrolled. DWI, T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), perfusion-weighted MRI, and magnetic resonance angiography were obtained at baseline, week 1, and week 12. Citicoline (500 mg/day) was administered orally for 6 weeks, and patients were followed for 12 weeks. The primary assessment was progression of ischemic lesion volume from baseline to 12 weeks as measured by MRI. A total of 100 patients entered the study. The primary MRI analysis included 40 placebo-treated patients and 41 citicoline-treated patients with both baseline and week 12 MRI data and failed to demonstrate a significant difference in lesion volume change from baseline to week 12. From baseline to week 12, ischemic lesion volume [all values mean (SE)] expanded by 180% (107) among placebo-treated patients compared with 34% (19) among citicoline-treated patients. In a secondary analysis, lesion volume decreased from week 1 to week 12 by 6.9 cc (2.8) on placebo versus 17.2 cc (2.6) on citicoline. Baseline variables that were predictors of change in lesion size over 12 weeks were the volume of hypoperfusion (strongest association), baseline NIHSS score, lesion volume on DWI, arterial lesion by magnetic resonance angiography, and categorized elapsed time (≤12 or >12 hours) from stroke onset to first dose. A marked association between lesion volume reduction and improvement of NIHSS score by seven or more points was observed. Significant correlations between lesion volumes and clinical measures were found, replicating values reported in the literature for smaller case series. We observed a reduction in lesion volume growth from baseline to week 12 with citicoline treatment, with a significantly greater reduction in volume from week 1 to week 12 with citicoline. We found a significant inverse relationship between lesion volume change over 12 weeks as measured by MRI and clinical outcome for ischemic stroke. This relationship supports the role of DWI as a surrogate marker of clinically meaningful lesion progression in stroke clinical trials. The hypothesis that citicoline reduces lesion growth and improves clinical outcome will be tested further. Ann Neurol 2000;48:713–722
Ethics Committees: Group Process Concerns and the Need for Research

Few ethics committees were in place when the New Jersey Supreme Court announced its ruling on the Quinlan case in 1976. Today, the vast majority of hospitals have formed ethics committees and their use in nursing homes and other healthcare facilities is growing. Given the increasing commitment to the use of ethics committees and their increasing influence on healthcare decision making, the careful evaluation of committee performance should be a high priority. Yet to date ethics committees appear to have undergone relatively little scrutiny. While professional articles on ethics committees do appear and at least one journal (CQ) sets aside a regular section for the discussion of “Ethics Committees at Work” articles to date have primarily been limited to essays, philosophical inquiries, reports, case studies, and, occasionally, surveys. The use of more structured research methodologies has been lacking. As a result, it is not yet clear, for example, what characteristics describe the best functioning ethics committee. Indeed, what constitutes best functioning lacks careful definition as well. Committee impact on medical decision making and patient outcomes, while discussed, has not been systematically measured and analyzed.
Shared Reading Within Latino Families: An Analysis of Reading Interactions and Language Use

Abstract Storybook reading research with monolingual families suggests that adult strategies used during shared reading provide greater opportunities for children's verbal participation while facilitating their language and literacy skills. Research of this type with linguistic minority children is relatively uncommon. In the present study, 16 primarily Spanish-speaking Latina/o caregivers and their 7- to 8- year-old children participated in a home-based reading intervention in the families' primary language. Parents were taught shared reading strategies based on Whitehurst and colleagues' (1988) Dialogic Reading. Results show increases in parents' strategy use and overall verbal participation. Further, measures of children's productive language and relative participation increased significantly. This pilot study has implications for further research and intervention utilizing shared storybook reading within linguistic minority populations.
Close analogy between radiative and conductive heat flux in a finite slab

Radiative and conductive heat fluxes in finite gas slab between parallel walls shown to be similar, using continuum theory
Developing a Regulatory Strategy for Monoclonal Antibodies

Medical research is rapidly moving forward in the development of new diagnostics and therapeutics for life-threatening diseases. Among the most novel approaches to diseases such as cancer, septic shock, and multiple sclerosis, are the cell-targeting agents, monoclonal antibodies (MABs). Although many biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms are investing significant financial and human resources toward the development of these unique molecules, few monoclonal antibodies have achieved marketing approval in the United States or worldwide. The reasons for the limited success in obtaining approvals include lack of familiarity, both by sponsors and regulatory agencies, with monoclonal antibodies as therapeutics; the unique aspects of developing monoclonal antibodies; and safety and clinical trial design issues.To overcome these limitations to successful achievement of rapid approvals, it is imperative that pharmaceutical sponsors formulate regulatory strategies early in the development process that will address ...
A rate-dependent bounding surface model with a generalized image point for cyclic nonproportional viscoplasticity

Abstract A phenomenologically based time- and rate-dependent bounding surface model is introduced which can be classified among the unified creep-plasticity theories. The model is motivated chiefly by experimental behaviors over a wide range of strain rates with particular emphasis on the behavior of metals under nonproportional loading where bounding surface theories have found success in modeling rate-independent behavior. In addition, a micromechanical interpretation is given for two kinematic hardening variables which lead to the rate-dependent bounding surface interpretation. The definition of the image point for the directional indices of kinematic hardening is left unspecified to maintain generality. The distinction between instantaneous rate sensitivity and rate sensitivity of material hardening is discussed and a framework for partitioning material rate sensitivity is presented. The relationship of the model to previously proposed formulations is discussed. Asymptotic and parametric behaviors of the model are examined with reference to experimentally observed behavior. A rate-independent idealization of the theory is obtained as a limiting, special case of the more general rate-dependent bounding surface framework.
Three-phase modeling of unbalanced distribution systems during open conductors and/or shunt fault conditions using the bus impedance matrix

Abstract This paper presents a digital simulation technique for unbalanced three-phase distribution systems subjected to a shunt or a series fault. The method is also applicable to multiple faults which involve a shunt fault at one location and blown fuses or open conductors at another. The method utilizes the phase frame representation of network elements. The imbalance conditioned by large single-phase loads, untransposed feeders, conductor bundles, etc., is reflected in the polyphase impedance matrix. Consequently, line removals, additions, impedance changes, conductor and phase openings can be simulated by modifying the base-case impedance matrix. Thus, the proposed method makes it possible to analyze any type of single or multiple fault occurring anywhere in the system.
Socioeconomic disparities in the operative management of peptic ulcer disease

Introduction Over the last 60 years, there has been a nationwide decrease in the number of operations performed for peptic ulcer disease (PUD). In contrast, the experience at our university-based safety net hospital (SNH) was that ulcer operations are still performed frequently. We hypothesized that differences in frequency of PUD operation may occur in hospitals that serve different patient populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate our experience with PUD and compare it with national trends. Methods We received institutional review board approval and performed this retrospective study of patients undergoing operation for PUD between January 2008 and December 2011. Patient records at 2 hospitals (a private community hospital and a university SNH) with similar admission numbers and geographic catchment were examined for PUD risk factors, Helicobacter pylori status, insurance/income status, type of operation, and surgical outcomes. A case-matched control group of medically treated patients were identified after primary diagnosis of PUD by endoscopy at the SNH. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results The total number of operations for PUD performed at the SNH was greater than those performed at the private hospital from 2008 to 2011 (142 vs 24; P P P Conclusion Our study provides 2 observations. First, patients of lower socioeconomic standing may have increased rates of complicated PUD owing to multiple medical factors and other factors related to healthcare. Second, surgical care for PUD retains a clinically important role within this patient population.
Enriched reproducing kernel particle method for piezoelectric structures with arbitrary interfaces

A formulation based on enriched reproducing kernel particle method is proposed for analysing non-homogenous piezoelectric structures with arbitrarily shaped material interfaces. The interfaces are represented using a set of cubic spline segments, each of which is defined by the co-ordinates and the slopes of its two end-nodes. Special enrichment functions are introduced within the reproducing kernel particle method, in order to capture discontinuities of strain and electric fields at the material interfaces. Several validation examples are provided to demonstrate the veracity and the utility of the proposed numerical method. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
From pythagoras’ theorem via sums of squares to celestial mechanics

A quotation from Lord Kelvin says: "I often say that when you can measure what you are speaking about, express it in numbers, you know something about it; but when you cannot measure it, when you cannot express in it numbers, your knowledge is of a meager and unsatisfactory kind." Laypersons do not always understand sayings like these. Many highly educated people have no feeling for the impact mathematics or science has on those who open their minds to these subjects. Even less understood is the beauty inherent in the understanding of even a fragment of mathematics. Artists in particular have been greatly puzzled about mathematics or science, while many scientists do not find it difficult to appreciate various art forms. Some poets, however, have worshipped these subjects. The German poet Novalis said: "The life of the gods is ma themat i c s , " and he made some other amazing statements expressing his profound admiration. On the other hand, Anatole France said: "Science neither cares to please, nor to displease. It is inhuman. It is not science, but poetry that charms and consoles. And that is w h y poe t ry is more necessary than science." He also said: "Science is infallible, but the scholars blunder all the time." In these words he expresses the difference between the facts that scientists exp lo re t he somehow "eternal th ings" -and the " h u m a n m a d e tools" with which they do the exploring. Among all the branches of mathematics probably none have as many followers, even among laypersons, as number theory. It is a fascinating subject to those who come under its spell. Here one studies the laws of the whole numbers 1, 2, 3 . . . . . One of the simplest examples concerns the set of Pythagorean triangles. They are right-angled triangles whose sides are whole numbers : for example, (3, 4, 5), (5, 12, 13) . . . . . We have 3 2 + 4 2 = 5 2, 5 2 + 12 2 = 13 2, and
Brain benzodiazepine binding sites in ethanol dependent and withdrawal states.

The brain benzodiazepine system has been implicated to be important in both the mechanism, and treatment of ethanol related syndromes. In this report evidence is presented which indicates that “peripheral type” benzodiazepine binding sites are probably more relevant than “central type” receptors for the neurochemical consequences of ethanol dependence and withdrawal states. Utilizing radioreceptor binding techniques 20–50% increases in the binding of [3H]RO-5-4864 (a “peripheral type” ligand) to brain membranes derived from rat cerebral cortex, cerebellum and hippocampus are observed in ethanol dependent rats. These increases persist for 3 days after cessation of ethanol. The number of [3H]RO-5-4864 binding sites in cerebellum returns to normal during 4–7 days after ethanol withdrawal. In all brain areas examined no changes were observed in the “central type” benzodiazepine receptor as judged by [3H]-ethyl-Beta-carboline-3-carboxylate, BCCE binding. Scatchard analysis revealed that the number of [3H]RO-5-4864 binding sites is increased in each brain area while the affinity was unchanged.
Reversal of autism-like behaviors and metabolism in adult mice with single-dose antipurinergic therapy.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) now affect 1–2% of the children born in the United States. Hundreds of genetic, metabolic and environmental factors are known to increase the risk of ASD. Similar factors are known to influence the risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; however, a unifying mechanistic explanation has remained elusive. Here we used the maternal immune activation (MIA) mouse model of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders to study the effects of a single dose of the antipurinergic drug suramin on the behavior and metabolism of adult animals. We found that disturbances in social behavior, novelty preference and metabolism are not permanent but are treatable with antipurinergic therapy (APT) in this model of ASD and schizophrenia. A single dose of suramin (20 mg kg−1 intraperitoneally (i.p.)) given to 6-month-old adults restored normal social behavior, novelty preference and metabolism. Comprehensive metabolomic analysis identified purine metabolism as the key regulatory pathway. Correction of purine metabolism normalized 17 of 18 metabolic pathways that were disturbed in the MIA model. Two days after treatment, the suramin concentration in the plasma and brainstem was 7.64 μM pmol μl−1 (±0.50) and 5.15 pmol mg−1 (±0.49), respectively. These data show good uptake of suramin into the central nervous system at the level of the brainstem. Most of the improvements associated with APT were lost after 5 weeks of drug washout, consistent with the 1-week plasma half-life of suramin in mice. Our results show that purine metabolism is a master regulator of behavior and metabolism in the MIA model, and that single-dose APT with suramin acutely reverses these abnormalities, even in adults.
Two Normal Incidence Collimators Designed For The Calibration Of The Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer

Two Dall-Kirkham, normal incidence collimators have been designed to calibrate the imaging properties of the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer over the wavelength region from 114 to 2000 A. The mirrors of the short-wavelength, 25-cm diameter collimator are superpolished Zerodur which have been multilayer coated for optimal reflectivity at 114 A. The mirrors of the long-wavelength, 41.25-cm diameter collimator are gold coated Zerodur for high reflectance above 300 A. The design, performance, and future use of these collimators in the extreme ultra-violet is discussed.
Manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) reveals brain circuitry involved in responding to an acute novel stress in rats with a history of repeated social stress.

Abstract Responses to acute stressors are determined in part by stress history. For example, a history of chronic stress results in facilitated responses to a novel stressor and this facilitation is considered to be adaptive. We previously demonstrated that repeated exposure of rats to the resident–intruder model of social stress results in the emergence of two subpopulations that are characterized by different coping responses to stress. The submissive subpopulation failed to show facilitation to a novel stressor and developed a passive strategy in the Porsolt forced swim test. Because a passive stress coping response has been implicated in the propensity to develop certain psychiatric disorders, understanding the unique circuitry engaged by exposure to a novel stressor in these subpopulations would advance our understanding of the etiology of stress-related pathology. An ex vivo functional imaging technique, manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI), was used to identify and distinguish brain regions that are differentially activated by an acute swim stress (15 min) in rats with a history of social stress compared to controls. Specifically, Mn 2 + was administered intracerebroventricularly prior to swim stress and brains were later imaged ex vivo to reveal activated structures. When compared to controls, all rats with a history of social stress showed greater activation in specific striatal, hippocampal, hypothalamic, and midbrain regions. The submissive subpopulation of rats was further distinguished by significantly greater activation in amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and septum, suggesting that these regions may form a circuit mediating responses to novel stress in individuals that adopt passive coping strategies. The finding that different circuits are engaged by a novel stressor in the two subpopulations of rats exposed to social stress implicates a role for these circuits in determining individual strategies for responding to stressors. Finally, these data underscore the utility of ex vivo MEMRI to identify and distinguish circuits engaged in behavioral responses.
Hydrodynamic fluctuations at large shear rate

The nonlinear Navier-Stokes-Langevin equations are used to describe fluctuations in a compressible fluid with uniform shear flow. The hydrodynamic modes for small deviations from the macroscopic nonequilibrium state are calculated, including linear mode coupling of the fluctuating variables with the macroscopic velocity field. The associated correlation functions are determined with the full nonlinear dependence on shear rate required for long times and/or large shear rate. The stationary and joint probability densities are also constructed from the associated Fokker-Planck equation. As an application of these results, the lowest-order mode-coupling contributions to the renormalized shear viscosity are evaluated.
Structural characterization of Hsp12, the heat shock protein from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in aqueous solution where it is intrinsically disordered and in detergent micelles where it is locally α-helical.

Hsp12 (heat shock protein 12) belongs to the small heat shock protein family, partially characterized as a stress response, stationary phase entry, late embryonic abundant-like protein located at the plasma membrane to protect membrane from desiccation. Here, we report the structural characterization of Hsp12 by NMR and biophysical techniques. The protein was labeled uniformly with nitrogen-15 and carbon-13 so that its conformation could be determined in detail both in aqueous solution and in two membrane-mimetic environments, SDS and dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. Secondary structural elements determined from assigned chemical shifts indicated that Hsp12 is dynamically disordered in aqueous solution, whereas it gains four helical stretches in the presence of SDS micelles and a single helix in presence of DPC. These conclusions were reinforced by circular dichroism spectra of the protein in all three environments. The lack of long range interactions in NOESY spectra indicated that the helices present in SDS micelles do not pack together. R1 and R2, relaxation and heteronuclear NOE measurements showed that the protein is disordered in aqueous solution but becomes more ordered in presence of detergent micelles. NMR spectra collected in presence of paramagnetic spin relaxation agents (5DSA, 16DSA, and Gd(DTPA-BMA)) indicated that the amphipathic α-helices of Hsp12 in SDS micelles lie on the membrane surface. These observations are in agreement with studies suggesting that Hsp12 functions to protect the membrane from desiccation.
Classroom behavior and the academic progress of learning disabled students

Abstract A total of 43 learning disabled (LD) students who were identified in grades 1–3 were followed up in their second year of special education services. Teachers completed the Classroom Behavior Inventory (CBI) for each LD student and for randomly selected classmates, and both groups of students were observed with the SCAN system in regular classroom settings. Group differences in teacher perceived task orientation, independence, and verbal expressiveness replicated previous findings with the CBI for this LD sample. SCAN observations partially replicated previous results in that LD children interacted with teachers more often than classmates. Multiple regression analyses indicated that both measures of behavior were predictive of reading achievement during year 1 when the LD children were identified, and that the CBI predicted academic progress from one year to the next. Both teacher ratings and observational evidence converged on the importance of task-oriented behavior, independent functioning, and socially appropriate behavior in understanding the poor achievement of LD students.