cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A survey of the burden of allergic rhinitis in the USA

Background: A prospective, cross-sectional, international survey was conducted among patients and physicians to identify symptom perception and the impact of allergic rhinitis (AR) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This paper presents the results from the USA. Methods: Data were recorded by 447 patients and matched with data collected on these patients by primary care physicians or specialists. Tests to confirm a diagnosis of AR had been performed on 345 (77.2%) patients. Because of the intermittent nature of the disease, both physicians and patients recorded the presence, severity and impact of symptoms at the time of consultation, in addition to symptoms frequently, but not currently, present. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the Mini Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire. Results: According to the physicians’ assessment, a large proportion of patients had moderate or severe disease (62.6%; n = 280), persistent disease (47.0%; n = 213) and comorbidities such as asthma (28.4%; n = 127). Comparison of the physicians’ and patients’ assessment of disease severity found that patients rated their disease as more severe than physicians across all three types of AR (P < 0.001). At the time of the consultation, 44.0% (n = 197) of patients were suffering from nasal and ocular symptoms, and 23.7% (n = 106) of all patients reported that their current nasal and ocular symptoms were moderate or severe in nature. More than 50% of the patients surveyed (56.4%; n = 252) were using two or more medications for their AR. Health-related quality of life correlated negatively with the number of symptom-free days in the previous 4 weeks. Allergic rhinitis had a significantly greater impact on patients with more persistent disease compared with those with intermittent disease (2.3 ± 1.3 vs 1.4 ± 1.1; P < 0.001); nevertheless, approximately two-thirds of patients with intermittent disease reported some impairment of their professional or daily life as a result of AR. Conclusions: The results of this survey highlight the unmet needs of the many patients in the USA who present during routine care with moderate or severe and/or persistent disease and an associated high symptom burden and impaired HRQoL.
Decision-Making as a Social Process: Normative and Descriptive Models of Leader Behavior.

Abstract : The normative model of leadership, proposed in earlier Technical Reports, is extended to include 'individual' problems (i.e., decision situations affecting only one subordinate) in addition to previously studied 'group' problems (i.e., decision situations affecting more than one subordinate). Descriptive models of leadership behavior are developed using subject responses to a problem set containing 24 group and 24 individual decision-making scenarios (case descriptions systematically varied on the eight attributes used in the normative model). Each of 98 leaders, including high ranking military officers from each branch of the service, was asked to specify the leadership process he would employ if confronted with each of the 48 cases. The results suggest that some findings supported by previous work can be generalized to individual situations. Comparison of the descriptive models, however, points to certain critical differences in the behavior of leaders faced with group versus individual problems. Evidence is presented to show the nature and implications of these differences. (Author)
Unusual occurrence of gastroliths in a polycotylid plesiosaur from the Upper Cretaceous Tropic Shale, southern Utah

A polycotylid plesiosaur (Dolichorhynchops sp.), recently discovered in the Upper Cretaceous (Cenomanian-Turonian) Tropic Shale in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, southern Utah, is associated with 289 gastroliths. This specimen is significant due to the general lack of gastroliths associated with most short-necked plesiosaur skeletons. The skeleton (MNA V10046) was excavated from a stratigraphic interval of marine shale that does not contain coarser-grained material. The stones were generally concentrated in one area of the skeleton, with the majority situated near the back of the skull. The stones are mainly composed of dark grey chert, are smooth and well rounded, and have varying degrees of polish. The majority of the stones are spherical in shape and are likely fluvial in origin. The gastroliths from this animal are similar in shape and number to those documented from elasmosaurid plesiosaurs. The gastroliths from MNA V10046, however, are much smaller and weigh considerably less than most elasmosaurid stomach stones. Given the lack of comparative material from other short-necked plesiosaurs, the size and mass differences are attributed to differences in function of gastroliths between long- and short-necked plesiosaurs.
Histone biotinylation in Candida albicans.

Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen in humans. It is a polymorphic fungus: it can live as yeasts, hyphae, or pseudohyphae. Biotin is required for cell growth and fatty acid metabolism because it is used as a cofactor for carboxylases such as acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and pyruvate carboxylase. In addition, we have discovered that biotin is used to modify histones in C. albicans. Biotinylation was detected by Western blots using a monoclonal antibiotin HRP-conjugated antibody as well as with qTOF and LC/MS/MS mass spectrometry. As a precaution, the antibiotin antibody was dialyzed against neutravidin prior to use. During this study, we observed that three histones, H2A, H2B, and H4, were biotinylated at many lysine residues in an apparently nonsite-specific manner. Roughly, equivalent levels of acetylation, methylation, and phosphorylation were found in histones from biotin-replete and biotin-starved cells, but histone biotinylation was only observed for cells grown in excess biotin. The function of histone biotinylation in C. albicans is still unknown but, because C. albicans is a natural biotin auxotroph, a storage reservoir for biotin is attractive. Techniques used to detect histone biotinylation in C. albicans did not detect any histone biotinylation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Quantification of chemical mixture interactions modulating dermal absorption using a multiple membrane fiber array.

Dermal exposures to chemical mixtures can potentially increase or decrease systemic bioavailability of toxicants in the mixture. Changes in dermal permeability can be attributed to changes in physi...
Intrathecal morphine delivered via subcutaneous pump for intractable pain in pancreatic cancer

Abstract BACKGROUND Pain secondary to unresectable pancreatic cancer is frequently severe and extremely difficult to control with traditional methods of analgesia. This retrospective study reports the analgesic effects of intrathecal morphine sulfate by implanted infusion pumps in nine patients with unresectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. METHODS Nine patients were implanted over a 2-year period. Preoperative morphine IV equivalents were a mean of 81.51 mg/day, with a range of 20–140 mg/day. Patients were hospitalized for a trial dose of 1–2 mg of intrathecal Duramorph, 1 mg/ml, via lumbar puncture to assess whether adequate pain relief could be achieved and whether there would be drug-related side effects. RESULTS All patients who received a trial dose experienced excellent pain relief, and subsequently underwent implantation of a lumbar subarachnoid catheter and infusion pump during the same hospitalization. The mean number of days from diagnosis to pump implant was 119, with a range of 3–587 days. The mean maximum daily dose was 21.28 mg, with a range of 3–73.10 mg. No patient experienced respiratory depression or excess sedation which prevented achievement of pain control. Minor supplemental narcotic use was documented in three of the nine patients. Assessment of pain control was made by the level of activity and the analog pain scale, with 0 being no pain and 10 being the worst pain imaginable. All of the patients experienced good to excellent relief of pain. The mean duration of intrathecal morphine sulfate use until death was 137.3 days, with a range of 52–354 days. CONCLUSIONS This series of nine patients indicates that long-term administration of intrathecal morphine via implanted infusion pump in patients with pancreatic cancer is both efficacious and safe. All patients and their families reported an improved quality of life with an increased level of activity.
Thermotransport of carbon in two-phase V-C and Nb-C alloys

Thermotransport experiments were performed on two-phase V-C and Nb-C alloys for various times, temperature ranges, and compositions. A one-phase region develops in the hotter portion of the sample accompanied by an increase in carbide concentration in the colder region. A mathematical equation in which the direction of transport is described by the sum of the heat of solution,A―H, and the heat of transport,Q*, was fitted to the experimental data for all of the alloys studied. No evidence was found to support the physical motion of the carbide particles predicted by some models. On the assumption that local equilibrium exists between the particles and the matrix, points on the V-C solvus were determined from the temperature corresponding to the one-phase/two-phase interface in the different experiments. The solid solubility for carbon in vanadium was determined to be log C (at. pct C) = 2.918 - 4536/T with a heat of solution of 86.8 ± 2.9 kJ/mol.
Turner syndrome is an independent risk factor for aortic dilation in the young.

OBJECTIVE. Because aortic dilation increases the risk for dissection in the general adult population, and dissection occurs with greater frequency at a young age with Turner syndrome, we studied the prevalence, magnitude, and determinants of aortic dilation in a large group of girls and young women with Turner syndrome. PATIENTS AND METHODS. Participants at annual Turner syndrome society meetings completed a questionnaire regarding their medical history. Echocardiographic measurements of their aorta were converted to z scores by using data from a larger group of normal control female subjects. Bivariable and multivariable analyses evaluated the effects of Turner syndrome features, such as a bicuspid aortic valve, coarctation, growth-hormone therapy, blood pressure, and karyotype, on aortic size. RESULTS. Among 138 individuals with Turner syndrome CONCLUSIONS. Among young individuals with Turner syndrome, a bicuspid aortic valve predicts a larger proximal aorta, and growth-hormone use may predict a larger aortic annulus. Compared with a control population, Turner syndrome alone is an independent risk factor for aortic dilation.
Decoding chemical structures from genomes.

Coelichelin is a new tetrapeptide siderophore from Streptomyces coelicolor originally discovered by gene sequence analysis. Surprisingly, this tetrapeptide is assembled by a trimodular nonribosomal peptide synthetase.
Electrification of Stratiform Regions in Mesoscale Convective Systems. Part II: Two-Dimensional Numerical Model Simulations of a Symmetric MCS

Abstract Model simulations of a symmetric mesoscale convective system (MCS; observations discussed in Part I) were conducted using a 2D, time-dependent numerical model with bulk microphysics. A number of charging mechanisms were considered based on various laboratory studies. The simulations suggest that noninductive ice–ice charge transfer in the low liquid water content regime, characteristic of MCS stratiform regions, is sufficient to account for observed charge density magnitudes, and as much as 70% of the total charge in the stratiform region. The remaining 30% is contributed by charge advection from the convective region. The strong role of in situ charging is consistent with previous water budget studies, which indicate that roughly 70% of the stratiform precipitation results from condensation in the mesoscale updraft. Thus both in situ charging and charge advection (the two previously identified hypotheses) appear to be important contributors to the electrical budget of the stratiform region. The ...
Synthesis and Characterization of Scandium Silyl Complexes of the Type Cp*2ScSiHRR‘. σ-Bond Metathesis Reactions and Catalytic Dehydrogenative Silation of Hydrocarbons

The scandium dihydrosilyl complexes Cp*2ScSiH2R (R = Mes (4), Trip (5), SiPh3 (6), Si(SiMe3)3 (7); Mes = 2,4,6-Me3C6H2, Trip = 2,4,6-iPr3C6H2) and Cp*2ScSiH(SiMe3)2 (8) were synthesized by addition of the appropriate hydrosilane to Cp*2ScMe (1). Studies of these complexes in the context of hydrocarbon activation led to discovery of catalytic processes for the dehydrogenative silation of hydrocarbons (including methane, isobutene and cyclopropane) with Ph2SiH2 via σ-bond metathesis.
A −131-dBc/Hz, 20-MHz MEMS oscillator with a 6.9-mW, 69-kΩ, gain-tunable CMOS TIA

We present the analysis, design, and measurement results of a low-noise, low-power MEMS oscillator at 20 MHz. The oscillator consists of a high-Q differential resonator, which is wire-bonded to a high-gain CMOS transimpedance amplifier (TIA). Measurement results show that the TIA achieves a tunable gain from 12 kΩ to 69 kΩ. The phase noise floor of the oscillator's output voltage is at −131 dBc/Hz, while the differential peak-to-peak swing can be varied between 160 mV and 1700 mV by an on-chip automatic level control (ALC) loop. The TIA, fabricated in a 0.35-μm CMOS process, occupies an area of 0.15 mm2 and dissipates 6.9 mW from a 2.5 V supply.
207Bi L-subshell orbital electron capture probabilities and decay energy

Abstract The L 1 subshell orbital electron capture probability P L1 in the decay of 33.4 y 207 Bi to the 2339.89 keV level in 207 Pb is measured to be 0.518 ± 0.081 (95% confidence) by a new method in which L 1 subshell characteristic X-rays in the L γ X-ray peak are observed in an X γt coincidence mode with 1770.23 keV γ-rays. The value of P L2 is 0.047 ± 0.015 (95% confidence). From these results a value of Q EC = 39 -8 +21 keV is obtained for capture transitions to the 2339.89 keV level. The absence of K-capture to this level also is established by absence of K X-rays in coincidence with 1770.23 keV γ-rays.
Natural convection from a flat plate oriented at an arbitrary angle in an infinite medium

Steady two-dimensional natural convection around a heated finite flat plate oriented at an arbitrary angle, α, with respect to the gravity force is formulated in terms of an elliptic coordinate system. The method of spectral series expansion is used to reduce the governing coupled partial differential equations to three sets of second-order ordinary differential equations. These equations are truncated and then numerically integrated by the finite-element method of collocation. The effect of boundary conditions on the outer boundary of the computational field is discussed. The flows for Ra = 1000.0, Pr = 0.7 and α = 0,2, 45, and 90 degrees are analyzed using illustrations of fluid flow patterns, graphs of surface vorticity and local Nusselt number, and contour plots of isotherms.
Relation between size and density in developing stands: A description and possible mechanisms

Abstract A description of stand development is presented which incorporates several ecological concepts, including: full-site occupancy; self-thinning; and the relation between the number and average size of plants in the population. Each of these concepts is integrated by a general size-density model. It is suggested that stands which are undergoing self-thinning are those which have achieved an upper limit in the amount of foliage supported. It is postulated that the predictable size-density relations in self-thinning populations can be explained on the basis of regulation and redistribution of a fixed amount of foliage among a declining number of larger individuals.
Derivation of the Brayton–Moser equations from a topological mixed potential function

A topological mixed potential function, P*T, is defined and shown to be an exact differential. From P*T, the Brayton-Moser equations are obtained from topological relationships of the network and the constitutive relationships of the elements. A relationship between P*T and Brayton-Moser's mixed potential function, Q, is developed.
Brain mapping: Validation and applications of structural and functional brain imaging

The accurate correlation of complementary structural and functional images of the human brain (brain mapping) is now an essential component of studies of brain functional anatomy. This paper describes a generalized validation procedure for multi-modal image registration in an individual subject. We first measured the distortions of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scanners used for structural and functional imaging, and implemented distortion corrections. We then designed and built a multi-modal validation phantom with markers that are visible in MRI, PET, and SPECT. We scanned the phantom in MRI and PET, corrected the resulting images for distortion, correlated the images using a well-known registration algorithm, and determined the accuracy of the resulting fit. The procedure is general enough for validating most single-subject, multi-modal correlation protocols, and the results are useful in designing automated correlation procedures.
Measurements of the thermal plasma environment of the space shuttle

The paper presents some initial results on measurements of the thermal plasma environment obtained by a spherical retarding potential analyzer and a Langmuir probe flown on (STS-3) as part of the NASA Office of Space Science-1 payload in March 1982. One of the major effects observed is a higher degree of turbulence in the ambient plasma compared to what is observed from similar instruments flown on unmanned satellites. In addition we see the temperature of the thermal electrons elevated to values of 4000-5000 K. Associated with elevated electron temperatures are regions of enhanced plasma density resulting from the appearance of high densities of molecular ions. The thermal plasma data also show clear effects of an induced V x B.L potential at the location of the probes which matches that produced by an L vector linking the probes to the engine nozzles; thereby establishing the prime return current location on the Orbiter. The final observations discussed are the pronounced and complex wake effects resulting both from the main structure of the Orbiter and from the complex shapes of appendages attached to the Orbiter.
A Student Team Approach To Teaching Adolescents With Special Emotional And Behavioral Needs.

Teams-Games-Tournament (TGT), an instructional technique involving student teams and learning games, is proposed as an alternative classroom structure for children with special needs. TGT and individualized instruction were compared in a school for adolescents of normal intelligence experiencing problems with human relationships and academic tasks. Students were randomly assigned to treatments. A five-category behavioral observation scale recorded student interaction and task behavior. In addition, students responded to a five-item sociometric instrument. The results confirmed hypotheses that TGT would exceed individualized instruction on students' attraction to one another, frequency of peer tutoring, and percent of time on task. A five-month followup showed former TGT students distributed among six new classes to be still interacting with their peers both on and off task more than control students.
Ultra low-power signal processing in wearable monitoring systems: A tiered screening architecture with optimal bit resolution

Advances in technology have led to the development of wearable sensing, computing, and communication devices that can be woven into the physical environment of our daily lives, enabling a large variety of new applications in several domains, including wellness and health care. Despite their tremendous potential to impact our lives, wearable health monitoring systems face a number of hurdles to become a reality. The enabling processors and architectures demand a large amount of energy, requiring sizable batteries. In this article, we propose a granular decision-making architecture for physical movement monitoring applications. The module can be viewed as a tiered wake-up circuitry. This decision-making module, in combination with a low-power microcontroller, allows for significant power saving through an ultra low-power processing architecture. The significant power saving is achieved by performing a preliminary ultra low-power signal processing, and hence, keeping the microcontroller off when the incoming signal is not of interest. The preliminary signal processing is performed by a set of special-purpose functional units, also called screening blocks, that implement template matching functions. We formulate and solve an optimization problem for selecting screening blocks such that the accuracy requirements of the signal processing are accommodated while the total power is minimized. Our experimental results on real data from wearable motion sensors show that the proposed algorithm achieves 63.2p energy saving while maintaining a sensitivity of 94.3p in recognizing transitional actions.
The computational complexity of propositional STRIPS planning

Abstract I present several computational complexity results for propositional STRIPS planning, i.e., STRIPS planning restricted to ground formulas. Different planning problems can be defined by restricting the type of formulas, placing limits on the number of pre-and postconditions, by restricting negation in pre- and postconditions, and by requiring optimal plans. For these types of restrictions, I show when planning is tractable (polynomial) and intractable (NP-hard). In general, it is PSPACE-complete to determine if a given planning instance has any solutions. Extremely severe restrictions on both the operators and the formulas are required to guarantee polynomial time or even NP-completeness. For example, when only ground literals are permitted, determining plan existence is PSPACE-complete even if operators are limited to two preconditions and two postconditions. When definite Horn ground formulas are permitted, determining plan existence is PSPACE-complete even if operators are limited to zero preconditions and one postcondition. One of the interesting tractable problems is if each operator is restricted to positive preconditions and one postcondition (only ground literals). The blocks-world problem, slightly modified, is a subproblem of this restricted planning problem. These results in combination with previous analyses are not encouraging for domain-independent planning.
Imaging techniques for avian lower respiratory diseases

Radiography is the most frequently used imaging technique to assess avian lower respiratory disease. The unique architecture of the avian respiratory system results in variations of radiographic appearances that are markedly different from the traditional pulmonary patterns frequently seen in mammals such as alveolar, bronchial, or interstitial. Alveolar lung disease, the hallmark of pneumonia in mammalian imaging, is not identified in avian lungs because the terminal airways consist of interconnecting bronchi and parabronchi without well-developed smaller compartments. Pathological changes of avian lungs are most commonly recognized radiographically as increased soft-tissue opacity with loss of the normal reticulated pattern. Avian lungs are relatively noncompliant and firmly adhered to the thoracic wall; thus, total lung volume is relatively constant throughout respiration, and conditions such as atelectasis do not occur. This review will address the common radiographic findings associated with avian lower respiratory disease. In addition, the potential applications of computerized axial tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in avian respiratory disease will be discussed.
C̆erenkov radiation at the resonance frequency of an amplifying medium

The propagation of C\ifmmode \breve{}\else \u{}\fi{}erenkov radiation through a medium in which the population of two energy levels is inverted has been studied. The population inversion is represented by an imaginary part of the index of refraction of the medium at the resonance frequency. The resonant atoms are embedded in a host medium which has the shape of a slab of finite width $L$ and dielectric constant ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{h}$, which is real and varies slowly for frequencies close to the resonance frequency of the embedded atoms. It is assumed that the host medium and the embedded atoms inside the slab behave as an isotropic noncrystalline medium. The slab is covered by a mirror on each of its surfaces and the medium outside the slab and the mirrors has dielectric constant ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{1}$ (${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{1}=1$ for vacuum). While each individual charged particle can stimulate coherent emission by different resonant atoms, the phase of radiation which is due to different particles is uncorrelated. It is shown, however, that radiation of high intensity in the direction of the C\ifmmode \breve{}\else \u{}\fi{}erenkov cone can be produced by highcurrent particle beams. Exact expressions, in integral form, are obtained for the electromagnetic field everywhere in space. Using the method of stationary phase approximate expressions are derived for the C\ifmmode \breve{}\else \u{}\fi{}erenkov fields as well as the radiated energy in the foward and backward direction, far away from the slab.
Role of the USAF AN/AAD-5 Infrared Reconnaissance Set in pollution detection and fuel conservation

Two (2) US Air Force-owned engineering development models of the AN/AAD-5 Infrared Reconnaissance Set were flight tested at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base during 1971. After a successful flight test, the next generation of this improved infrared sensor was built to undergo extensive qualification (i.e., bench) testing. The Environmental Protection Agency requested the use of the original models and in mid-1976 took possession of the sensors and peculiar support equipment. The equipment was slightly modified and adapted to a civilian aircraft, in which it is being used successfully to obtain data much needed by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The quality of supportive care among inpatients dying with advanced cancer

Purpose Managing symptoms and communicating effectively are essential aspects of providing high-quality cancer care, especially among patients with advanced cancer. The purpose of this study is to apply novel quality indicators to measure the quality of supportive care provided to patients with advanced cancer who died in a large university medical center.
Reflections of a party scholar on direct democracy and the direct democracy literature

In a seminal work, E.E. Schattschneider identified three functions that political parties can (and sometimes do) perform in representative democracies. His list included simplifying the alternatives, educating the public, and promoting accountable governance. This paper proceeds from the premise that disquiet about direct democracy is, in part, because it may interfere with parties performing these functions that contribute to democracy's success. Drawing from the contributions to this Special Issue, this paper considers how well these functions are performed in direct elections that are often not organized by parties and the challenges that ballot initiatives and referendums otherwise pose to party government.
Albumin microbubble adherence to human coronary endothelium: implications for assessment of endothelial function using myocardial contrast echocardiography.

Abstract Objectives. We hypothesized that sonicated 5% human albumin microbubbles (Albunex) adhere to disrupted vascular endothelium and that this interaction is a marker of endothelial integrity. This study sought to identify sites and determinants of Albunex–endothelial cell (EC) attachment. Background. Under normal conditions, Albunex microbubbles used in myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) pass unimpeded through the coronary microcirculation. During pathophysiologic states associated with endothelial dysfunction, however, microbubbles linger in the myocardium despite normal flow. The sites and conditions regulating microbubble adhesion are unknown. Methods. Coverslips with cultured human coronary artery ECs were mounted in a parallel plate perfusion system and perfused with a suspension of fluorescein-labeled Albunex in culture medium, followed by a bubble-free wash at a wall shear rate of 100 s−1. To create inflammatory ECs, phorbol myristate acetate was added 4.5 h before perfusion, and flow cytometry was used to confirm an inflammatory response. Perfusions were performed under normal and inflammatory conditions using surfaces of confluent and subconfluent ECs and isolated extracellular matrix. Bubble adherence was quantified in 20 random fields per coverslip using epifluorescent video microscopy. Results. No microbubbles adhered to normal confluent ECs, although small numbers adhered to inflamed ECs (0.03 ± 0.01 bubbles/cell, p Conclusions. Albunex microbubbles preferentially adhere to inflammatory endothelial extracellular matrix. These data suggest that MCE can be used to noninvasively study endothelial integrity and may have implications for the assessment of preclinical atherosclerotic heart disease.
Automation of salmonella typhi phage typing

Summary Two steps in the procedure for bacteriophage typing of Salmonella typhi have been automated. The culture inoculum was applied by flooding the surface of phage agar in a 150×20 mm petri dish and removing the excess liquid with a safety pipettor. This step replaced the older method of manually preparing up to 100 individual areas for inoculation. The number of bacteria per unit area was the same with both methods, so the automated method involved no change in the technique. The second automated step involved use of a bacteriophage applicator which simultaneously dispensed 59 uniform drops of bacteriophages onto the inoculated plate. The automated procedure has reduced personnel time by about 90% with no loss in sensitivity or accuracy.
The unusual varl gene of yeast mitochondrial DNA

The var1 gene specifies the only mitochondrial ribosomal protein known to be encoded by yeast mitochondrial DNA. The gene is unusual in that its base composition is nearly 90 percent adenine plus thymine. It and its expression product show a strain-dependent variation in size of up to 7 percent; this variation does not detectably interfere with function. Furthermore, var1 is an expandable gene that participates in a novel recombinational event resembling gene conversion whereby shorter alleles are preferentially converted to longer ones. The remarkable features of var1 indicate that it may have evolved by a mechanism analogous to exon shuffling, although no introns are actually present.
A universal data compression system

A universal data compression algorithm is described which is capable of compressing long strings generated by a "finitely generated" source, with a near optimum per symbol length without prior knowledge of the source. This class of sources may be viewed as a generalization of Markov sources to random fields. Moreover, the algorithm does not require a working storage much larger than that needed to describe the source generating parameters.
Long-Range Order Effects in Ferroelectric Pb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3

The local orbital extension of the Linearized Augmented Planewave (LAPW+LO) method within the local density and general gradient approximations was used to optimize internal coordinates and calculate total energies of Pb(Zri 1/2 Ti 1/2 )O 3 (PZT) superlattices with B site cations ordered along the [001] and [111] directions. Ferroelectric structures and bond-length distributions similar to those obtained from experimental data were found for all three investigated chemically ordered phases. The Ti atom sits in an off-center position of a slightly distorted TiO 6 octahedron, the structure of which is mostly independent of the chemical ordering pattern. Coupling between the Ti and Zr containing octahedra results in highly distorted ZrO 6 units. This relatively high energy part of the structure could decrease the stability of these perovskite compounds against zone-boundary rotations of the BO 6 octahedra. Polar, zone-center only distortions result in lower energy [111] ordered superstructures when compared to the [001] ordered structure. The lowest energy chemically ordered PZT is the one with B-site cations ordered along the [111] direction and has 14mm symmetry. Our total energy results and a simple statistical model predict a wide miscibility gap PZT at the morphotropic composition is therefore likely a multiphase or metastable material which may be responsible for its sensitivity to synthesis and annealing conditions.
A DAG-Based Algorithm for Prevention of Store-and-Forward Deadlock in Packet Networks

Store-and-forward deadlock (SFD) occurs in packet- switched computer networks when, among some cycle of packets buffered by the communication system, each packet in the cycle waits for the use of the buffer currently occupied by the next packet in the cycle. Several techniques for the prevention of SFD are known, but all exact some cost in terms of efficient and flexible packet handling. An ideal SFD-prevention technique is as unobtrusive as possible; it imposes no routing restrictions on packets, does not require that the buffer pool on each node grow with network size, and imposes no buffer-pool partitioning. All SFD-prevention techniques described so far lack some or all of these desirable properties. The new algorithm here described has all of them; in return, it imposes other unconventional costs. Under certain circumstances it requires that packets be rerouted around areas of potential deadlock, and one arbitrarily chosen node is required to accept within finite time any packet seeking entrance to its buffer pool, even if this requires erasing some packet. It is argued nonetheless that these costs are imposed infrequently enough and are sufficiently well manageable by heuristic techniques to make this new algorithm an attractive and practical alternative to the older techniques. An implementation designed for a microprocessor network now under construction is described.
Reproductive factors and non-Hodgkin lymphoma risk in the California Teachers Study.

Background Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a malignancy etiologically linked to immunomodulatory exposures and disorders. Endogenous female sex hormones may modify immune function and influence NHL risk. Few studies have examined associations between reproductive factors, which can serve as surrogates for such hormonal exposures, and NHL risk by subtype. Methodology/Principal Findings Women in the California Teachers Study cohort provided detailed data in 1995–1996 on reproductive history. Follow-up through 2007 identified 574 women with incident B-cell NHL. Hazard rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models to assess associations between reproductive factors and all B-cell NHL combined, diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, follicular lymphomas, and B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemias/small lymphocytic lymphomas. Pregnancy was marginally associated with lower risk of B-cell NHL (RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.68–1.04). Much of the reduction in risk was observed after one full-term pregnancy relative to nulligravid women (RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.54–1.06; P for trend <0.01), particularly for diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (P for trend = 0.13), but not among women who had only incomplete pregnancies. Age at first full-term pregnancy was marginally inversely associated with B-cell NHL risk overall (P for trend = 0.08) and for diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (P for trend = 0.056). Breast feeding was not associated with B-cell NHL risk overall or by subtype. Conclusions Full-term pregnancy and early age at first full-term pregnancy account for most of the observed reduction in B-cell NHL risk associated with gravidity. Pregnancy-related hormonal exposures, including prolonged and high-level exposure to progesterone during a full-term pregnancy may inhibit development of B-cell NHL.
Attempts to detect Agrobacterium tumefaciens and bacteriophage PS8 DNA in crown gall tumors by DNA-DNA-filter hybridization.

A systematic study of the DNA-DNA-filter reaction is presented which measures its ability to detect small amounts of simple DNA (bacterial or bacteriophage) in model mixtures of DNA immobilized on filters. Saturation curves show qualitatively that significant binding occurs when there is 10% Agrobacterium tumefaciens DNA on the filter but not 1%. PS8 bacteriophage DNA is detectable at a level of 0.1%. True saturation is not attained in the bacterial DNA reaction : radioactivity bound represents only 3% of the theoretical saturation value. The bacteriophage DNA reactions attain 15-30% of the expected saturation value. When crown gall tumor DNA filters were tested for the presence of A. tumefaciens or PS8 bacteriophage DNA by saturation reactions, an apparently significant amount of binding was observed compared with usual background levels for heterologous DNA filters. However thermal dissociation profiles revealed that no well-matched duplexes were formed. Normal tobacco callus DNA filters exhibited the same type of binding of labeled DNA to a similar extent (50-100% as much as tumor DNA filters). Both types of DNA-filters bound Bacillus subtilis and bacteriophage T4 DNA as efficiently as A. tumefaciens and PS8 DNA. The high non-specific background binding of labeled DNA by filters containing DNA isolated from plant tissue culture materials is ascribed to low single strand molecular weight of the filterbound DNA. This study provides no evidence for foreign DNA in crown gall tumors, and raises objections to the interpretation of the data of earlier investigators (Quetier, F., Huguet, T. and Guille, E. (1969) Biochem, Biophys. Res, Commun. 34, 128-133 and Srivastava, B.I.S. (1970) Life Sci. 9, 889-892) who claimed to detect A. tumefaciens DNA in crown gall tumors by DNA-DNA-filter hybridization.
A pharmacologic approach to the infusion of ritodrine

The recommended regimen for the infusion of ritodrine leads to unnecessarily high plasma concentrations. A review of basic pharmacologic principles provides a basis for changing the infusion regimen. A regimen is proposed that results in lower average and peak concentrations and reduces the total amount of drug given. These changes may decrease the risk of developing side effects without adversely affecting the ability to inhibit preterm labor.
Where does radioimmunotherapy fit in the management of breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies and is the main cause of death in women aged 40–49 years. Metastatic breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease that has a variety of different clinical presentations, ranging from solitary metastatic lesion to diffuse and multiple organ involvement. The biological heterogeneity of metastatic breast cancer has led to its unpredictable clinical behavior. One of the major challenges, therefore, is to identify predictive and prognostic models facilitating the selection of patients who can benefit from more aggressive and potentially curative options. This article provides an overview of the current management of metastatic breast cancer with focused emphasis on radioimmunotherapy.
Quasi-periodicity and dynamical systems: An experimentalist's view

Current theoretical and experimental work on quasiperiodicity is reviewed in this tutorial. The concept of universality and its relevance to experiments on nonlinear multifrequency systems is discussed. The reduction of experimental data using Poincare sections and the mathematical properties of the one-dimensional circle map are considered. Various dynamical systems technique for determining scaling and multifractal properties as well as other more traditional methods of analysis, are presented. Experimental observations that would support or refute the one-dimensional circle map model are emphasized. Experimental results are summarized, with emphasis on forced Rayleigh-Benard convection and solid-state systems. Accomplishments and open problems of the dynamical systems theory of quasiperiodicity are outlined. >
Spatially Resolved Current-Voltage Measurements—Evidence for Nonuniform Photocurrents in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Spatial current distributions of dye-sensitized TiO 2 solar cells (DSSCs) mediated with a cobalt polypyridine complex are described. By rastering a laser over the surface of a DSSC while measuring the short-circuit current, a spatial current image is obtained. Experiments that highlight the potential uses of this technique are discussed. First, intentional damage inflicted on the photoanode and cathode of the DSSC are visualized with the scanning technique and second, the effects of increased pressure of the cell holder clamps are discussed and shown to warrant further investigation. Finally, other variations of the scanning technique are suggested.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing before and after conditioning in older coronary patients

Cardiac rehabilitation has been demonstrated to improve aerobic capacity in young and middle-aged coronary patients. The effect of an aerobic conditioning program on cardiopulmonary markers of fitness was assessed in 22 older patients (mean age 68 years) following a coronary event compared with 37 younger patients (mean age 52 years). Before conditioning, peak oxygen consumption was lower in the older patients, 16.9 versus 24.3 cm3/kg/min (p < 0.001), as was exercise duration and maximal ventilation. Older coronary versus 4 of 37, p < 0.05) and therefore often did not attain a true maximal cardiopulmonary limitation. Both groups had similar increases in peak oxygen consumption following a 36-session conditioning program, improving 27% in the older group and 23% in the younger group. Duration of treadmill exercise on a Balke treadmill protocol increased similarly in the two groups, 62% in the older group (from 8.9 to 14.3 minutes) and 40% in the younger group (from 12.2 to 17.1 minutes) (p = NS). Thus while older patients following coronary events are substantially less fit than younger patients, they obtain a similar relative improvement of aerobic capacity with a graded conditioning program.
Which Way Media Anthropology

Anthropologists can make a valuable contribution by studying media as an agent of modernization and cultural change.
Emerging Technologies for Caregivers of a Person with a Disability

For caregivers of persons with disabilities, the importance of their caregiving can be reflected on a continuum that at one end supports the beginning of life and at the other end supports the end of life (see Fig. 12.1). Since the early 1980s, infants who needed a medical device to compensate for a vital organ or body function and were thus technology dependent, have been sent home from the hospital with their parent caregivers because of cost reductions and better developmental outcomes for the children (Cross et al., Issues in Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing 21:63–84, 1998). One of the most critical factors that determined whether technology-dependent children had extended hospital stays or were able to be cared for at home was the ability and commitment of the parent caregivers to manage the technology (Cross et al., Issues in Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing 21:63–84, 1998; Odom and Chandler, Early Childhood Special Education 9(4): 43–54, 1990; Perkins, Journal of Pediatric Nursing 8(1): 2–9, 1993). Likewise, when support is needed at the end of life, caregivers of a family member in the final stages of life secondary to a disorder or condition such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, or cancer often must master technologies to administer oxygen, nourishment, and pain-relieving medications (Aranda and Hayman-White, Cancer Nursing, 24:300–307, 2001; Caring for people with Huntington’s disease, http://endoflifecare.tripod.com/juvenilehuntingtonsdisease/id179.html, 2005; Gibson and Schroder, American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care 18(1):19–25, 2001; Twilight brigade: Compassion in action, http://www.thetwilightbrigade.com/, 2008). In between the two ends of the caregiving continuum, caregivers use technology to support persons with disabilities so that they can carry out the activities that constitute the fabric of their everyday lives—eating, toileting, bathing, dressing, transferring and communicating, as well as participate in the social roles valued by these persons—such as parent, volunteer, teacher, lawyer, spouse, or coach. Technologies designed to support persons with disabilities also have the potential to reduce the need for personal assistance and reduce caregiver burden.
Cdc42 Regulates the Par-6 PDZ Domain through an Allosteric CRIB-PDZ Transition

Regulation of protein interaction domains is required for cellular signaling dynamics. Here, we show that the PDZ protein interaction domain from the cell polarity protein Par-6 is regulated by the Rho GTPase Cdc42. Cdc42 binds to a CRIB domain adjacent to the PDZ domain, increasing the affinity of the Par-6 PDZ for its carboxy-terminal ligand by approximately 13-fold. Par-6 PDZ regulation is required for function as mutational disruption of Cdc42-Par-6 PDZ coupling leads to inactivation of Par-6 in polarized MDCK epithelial cells. Structural analysis reveals that the free PDZ domain has several deviations from the canonical PDZ conformation that account for its low ligand affinity. Regulation results from a Cdc42-induced conformational transition in the CRIB-PDZ module that causes the PDZ to assume a canonical, high-affinity PDZ conformation. The coupled CRIB and PDZ architecture of Par-6 reveals how simple binding domains can be combined to yield complex regulation.
Family Support Program Development-Integrating Research, Practice and Policy

ABSTRACT Recent interest from a variety of disciplines in supporting families for the purpose of enhancing resiliency and reducing adverse outcomes highlights the challenges and opportunities involved in using research to inform social work practice and policy. Over the past two decades a tremendous amount of research in prevention and early childhood intervention has been carried out, but it is often difficult to translate this research into practice and policy. There is a need to move beyond finding the ideal program model toward the application of important research findings through a systematic process of program development. In developing social work programs to support families it is important to consider not only the optimal program models to be applied, but the details of implementation and the role of quality management and program evaluation. The paper reports upon the development of the Integrated Team Case Management Approach which was developed in response to research findings and experience ...