cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Creation of a new longitudinal corpus of clinical narratives

Display Omitted New corpus of 1304 de-identified medical records.Longitudinal records represent 296 patients.Three patient cohorts: with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), no CAD, develop CAD.Overview of novel uses for this corpus. The 2014 i2b2/UTHealth Natural Language Processing (NLP) shared task featured a new longitudinal corpus of 1304 records representing 296 diabetic patients. The corpus contains three cohorts: patients who have a diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in their first record, and continue to have it in subsequent records; patients who do not have a diagnosis of CAD in the first record, but develop it by the last record; patients who do not have a diagnosis of CAD in any record. This paper details the process used to select records for this corpus and provides an overview of novel research uses for this corpus. This corpus is the only annotated corpus of longitudinal clinical narratives currently available for research to the general research community.
Phospholipid scramblase 1 is required for β2‐glycoprotein I binding in hypoxia and reoxygenation‐induced endothelial inflammation

Multiple pathologic conditions, including hemorrhage, tumor angiogenesis, and ischemia-reperfusion events, will result in hypoxia and subsequent reperfusion. Previous studies have analyzed the lipid changes within whole tissues and indicated that ischemia-reperfusion altered tissue and cellular phospholipids. Using an in vitro cell culture model of hypoxia and reoxygenation, we examined the endothelial lipid changes. We hypothesized that phospholipid scramblase 1, a protein that regulates bilayer asymmetry, is involved in altering the phospholipids of endothelial cells during hypoxia, a component of ischemia, leading to b2-glycoprotein I and IgM binding and subsequent lipid-mediated, inflammatory responses. We have completed the first comprehensive study of steady-state phospholipid scramblase 1 mRNA levels, protein expression, and activity under conditions of hypoxia and reoxygenation. Phospholipid scramblase 1 regulates phosphatidylserine exposure in response to oxygen stress, leading to b2-glycoprotein I and IgM binding and lipid-mediated, inflammatory responses. J. Leukoc. Biol. 98: 000–000; 2015.
Pt-Sn-Alumina Catalysts: Relating Characterization and Alkane Dehydrocyclization Data

Publisher Summary Bimetallic catalysts have been of interest in heterogeneous catalysis for many years. Schwab, in a classic paper, called attention to the role of alloy composition in determining catalytic activity. The electronic theory of catalysis provided the motivation for numerous studies with alloy catalysts during the 1950s. The introduction of the Pt–Re naphtha reforming catalyst by Chevron in the 1960s provided additional motivation for the study of supported bimetallic catalysts. Many early investigators held the view that d-band electron concentration could be controlled by alloy formation so that catalytic selectivity and/or activity could be influenced through the control of the d-band electron concentration. Many workers used concepts based upon alloy formation to explain the results from their studies of supported bimetallic catalysts. As more studies were completed with supported bimetallic catalysts, workers began to question the extent of alloy formation in these catalysts. A considerable number of studies have been devoted to the characterization of supported and unsupported Pt–Sn catalysts. Likewise, a number of studies have been engaged with determining the selectivity and/or activity of these catalysts. These catalysts have been utilized in a number of characterization studies and have been employed in activity measurements, in both atmospheric and higher-pressure alkane dehydrocyclization studies. This chapter presents a comparison of the characterization and activity data.
Test results of HD1b, an upgraded 16 tesla Nb/sub 3/Sn dipole magnet

The Superconducting Magnet Group at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has been developing high-field, brittle-superconductor, accelerator magnet technology, in which the conductor's support system can significantly impact conductor performance (as well as magnet training). A recent H-dipole coil test (HD1) achieved a peak bore-field of 16 Tesla, using two, flat-racetrack, double-layer Nb/sub 3/Sn coils. However, its 4.5 K training was slow, with an erratic plateau at /spl sim/92% of its un-degraded "short-sample" expectation (/spl sim/16.6 T). Quench-origins correlated with regions where low conductor pre-stress had been expected (3-D FEM predictions and variations in 300 K coil-size). The coils were re-assembled with minor coil-support changes and re-tested as "HD1b", with a 185 MPa average pre-stress (30 MPa higher than HD1, with a 15-20 MPa pole-turn margin expected at 17 T). Training started higher (15.1 T), and quickly reached a stable, negligibly higher plateau at 16 T. After a thermal cycle, training started at 15.4 T, but peaked at 15.8 T, on the third attempt, before degrading to a 15.7 T plateau. The temperature dependence of this plateau was explored in a sub-atmospheric LHe bath to 3.0 K. Magnet performance data for both thermal cycles is presented and discussed, along with issues for future high-field accelerator magnet development.
Clostridium botulinum and the Clinical Laboratorian: A Detailed Review of Botulism, Including Biological Warfare Ramifications of Botulinum Toxin

Abstract Objective.—This review article is designed to thoroughly familiarize all health care professionals with the history, classification, epidemiology, clinical characteristics, differential diagnosis, diagnostic evaluation (including laboratory-based testing), treatment, and prognosis of botulism. It is especially targeted toward clinical laboratorians and includes a detailed enumeration of the important clinical laboratory contributions to the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patients with botulism. Finally, the bioterrorism potential for botulism is discussed, with an emphasis on the clinical laboratory ramifications of this possibility. Data Sources.—Included medical periodicals and textbooks accessioned from computerized and manual medical literature searches. More than 1000 medical works published from the 1800s through 2003 were retrieved and reviewed in this process. Data Synthesis.—Pertinent data are presented in textual and tabular formats, the latter including 6 tables presenting det...
Designing Internet instruction for Latinos

SUMMARY It is becoming increasingly important to provide appropriate library instruction for the rising number of Latino students enrolling in higher education. Of particular concern is how librarians can provide effective Internet instruction to Latinos. Latino students' needs and learning styles tend to differ from those of the mainstream population from which the majority of librarians come. These differences have implications for the ways that librarians offer instruction. This paper will discuss cultural issues and varying learning styles that librarians need to be cognizant of when working with a Latino population, and will provide guidelines for shaping instruction for Latinos within an Internet environment.
Death and inflammation following somatic cell transplantation

The fields of regenerative medicine and cellular therapy have been the subject of tremendous hype and hope. In particular, the perceived usage of somatic cells like mesenchymal stromal stem cells (MSCs) has captured the imagination of many. Clinical trials are currently evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs in disorders ranging from heart disease to pediatric graft-vs-host disease; however, numerous questions still remain regarding mechanism of action, effective dose, and whether these cells can be used in the allogeneic setting. One of the major issues surrounding the development of somatic cell therapies like MSCs is that despite evoking a positive response, long-term engraftment and persistence of these cells is rare. Consequently, very large cell doses need be administered raising production, delivery, and efficacy issues. In this review, we will discuss causes for this lack of persistence and highlight some of the methodologies be used to enhance cell survival post-transplantation.
The Impact of Head Orientation on Multi-segmental Torso Coordination during the Transition from Sitting to Standing

Objective: The aim of this research was to assess how changing the orientation of the head to the trunk would impact the mobility and coordination of multiple torso segments during a common postural transition. Background: The dynamic relationship of the head to the trunk has a major impact on vestibular, visual, and neck muscle stretch receptor sensory feedback. Integration of sensory feedback is necessary to regulate postural control, which is necessary for the performance of daily and occupational activities. During upright stance, head extension induces postural sway (Vuillerme & Rougier, 2005); however, postural control within the torso may also be impacted. Methods: Eleven male and thirteen female, healthy, young subjects performed the sit-to-stand movement starting from standardized sitting conditions. Each subject performed four sit-to-stand trials with each of three different head orientations: extended, flexed, and neutral. 3-D kinematic data were analyzed for six torso segments: head, cervical,...
Vector reduction/transformation operators

Development of flexible linear algebra interfaces is an increasingly critical issue. Efficient and expressive interfaces are well established for some linear algebra abstractions, but not for vectors. Vectors differ from other abstractions in the diversity of necessary operations, sometimes requiring dozens for a given algorithm (e.g. interior-point methods for optimization). We discuss a new approach based on operator objects that are transported to the underlying data by the linear algebra library implementation, allowing developers of abstract numerical algorithms to easily extend the functionality regardless of computer architecture, application or data locality/organization. Numerical experiments demonstrate efficient implementation.
The information content of funds from operations (FFO) for real estate investment trusts (REITs)

Abstract This paper examines the information content of alternative summary performance measures, using stock returns as the benchmark, for 138 REITs during 1994–1996. This paper tests for both incremental and relative information content of FFO (a voluntarily disclosed, accounting-based performance measure that is the industry standard for REITs) compared to GAAP net income (EPS), cash from operations, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Results indicate that both FFO and EPS consistently provide incremental information content with only weak evidence that EPS has greater relative information content and no evidence for the other summary performance measures.
Neighborhood Socioeconomic Disadvantage and Gestational Weight Gain and Loss

We explored the relationship between neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage (NSED) and gestational weight gain and loss and if the association differed by race. A census tract level NSED index (categorized as low, mid-low, mid-high, and high) was generated from 12 measures from the 2000 US Census data. Gestational weight gain and other individual-level characteristics were derived from vital birth records for Allegheny County, PA for 2003–2010 (n = 55,608). Crude and adjusted relative risks were estimated using modified multilevel Poisson regression models to estimate the association between NSED and excessive and inadequate gestational weight gain (GWG) and weight loss (versus adequate GWG). Black women lived in neighborhoods that were more likely to be socioeconomically disadvantaged compared to white women. Almost 55 % of women gained an excessive amount of weight during pregnancy, and 2 % lost weight during pregnancy. Black women were more likely than white women to have inadequate weight gain or weight loss. Mid-high (aRR = 1.3, 95 % CI 1.2, 1.3) and high (aRR = 1.5, 95 % CI 1.5, 1.6) NSED compared to low NSED was associated with inadequate weight gain while NSED was not associated with excessive weight gain. Among black women, high versus low NSED was associated with weight loss during pregnancy (RR = 1.6, 95 % CI 1.1, 2.5). Among white women, each level of NSED compared to low NSED was associated with weight loss during pregnancy. This study demonstrates how neighborhood socioeconomic characteristics can contribute to our understanding of inadequate weight gain and weight loss during pregnancy, having implications for future research and interventions designed to advance pregnancy outcomes.
PROGRESS IN APPLICATION OF THE NEUROSCIENCES TO AN UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN LEARNING: THE CHALLENGE OF FINDING A MIDDLE-GROUND NEUROEDUCATIONAL THEORY

Modern neuroscientific research has substantially enhanced our understanding of the human brain. However, many challenges remain in developing a strong, brain-based theory of human learning, especially in complex environments such as educational settings. Some of the current issues and challenges in our progress toward developing comprehensive neuroscientific-based theories of human learning, particularly in the academic disciplines, are reviewed, beginning with a brief summary of the history of publications in science learning. This is followed by an analysis of some of the large-scale issues and conceptual problems that we currently face in developing a strong, middle-ground “neuroeducational theory” relevant to learning, especially in rather abstract disciplines such as mathematics and science. Finally, some perspectives on possible future strategies and challenges in reaching the goal of a neuroeducational theory are presented.
Adaptive seeking sliding mode control

This paper proposes a new sliding mode design concept, namely adaptive seeking sliding mode control for a class of nonlinear systems. While reserving the properties of the sliding mode control, like insensitivity to parameter variations and complete rejection of disturbances, adaptive seeking sliding mode control offers a promising robust sliding mode control solutions for real-life engineering applications with simple control structure. The proposed sliding mode control method is continuous in nature and applies a floating gain to relieve the chattering problem accompanying most sliding mode control systems when the unknown disturbances are continuous and slowly varying. The unknown uncertainties and disturbances in system can be adaptively estimated and compensated by adaptive seeking sliding mode controller. This paper establishes a theoretical foundation for adaptive seeking sliding mode control strategy.
Studies on the estrus-inducing (pheromonal) action of male deermouse urine.

Abstract Female deermice show estrus infrequently when caged in groups in a male-free environment. Incidence of estrus is increased, in some cases more than twofold, following exposure to the presence of a deermouse male or to his urine. As little as 0.17 ml of urine dripped onto the bedding each day for 3 days was sufficient to give a maximum response among a cage of 10 females. Urine from male laboratory mice did not increase the incidence of estrus among deermouse females. The adult female's response to urine was not affected by the presence or absence of an adult male during her early life.
Effect of hospital-wide chlorhexidine patient bathing on healthcare-associated infections.

Background Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) bathing has been used primarily in critical care to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections and infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms. The objective was to determine the effect of hospital-wide CHG patient bathing on healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Design Quasi-experimental, staged, dose-escalation study for 19 months followed by a 4-month washout period, in 3 cohorts. Setting Academic medical center. Patients All patients except neonates and infants. Intervention and measurements CHG bathing in the form of bed basin baths or showers administered 3 days per week or daily. CHG bathing compliance was monitored, and the rate of HAIs was measured. Results Over 188,859 patient-days, 68,302 CHG baths were administered. Adherence to CHG bathing in the adult critical care units (90%) was better than that observed in other units (57.7%, [Formula: see text]). A significant decrease in infections due to Clostridium difficile was observed in all cohorts of patients during the intervention period, followed by a significant rise during the washout period. For all cohorts, the relative risk of C. difficile infection compared to baseline was 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57-0.89; [Formula: see text]) for 3-days-per-week CHG bathing and 0.41 (95% CI, 0.29-0.59; [Formula: see text]) for daily CHG bathing. During the washout period, the relative risk of infection was 1.85 (95% CI, 1.38-2.53; [Formula: see text]), compared to that with daily CHG bathing. A consistent effect of CHG bathing on other HAIs was not observed. No adverse events related to CHG bathing were reported. Conclusions CHG bathing was well tolerated and was associated with a significant decrease in C. difficile infections in hospitalized patients.
Language based simulation, flexibility, and development speed in the joint integrated mission model

The Joint Integrated Mission Model (JIMM) uses generic system components and a simulation language that allows developers to program specific system, platform, and player characteristics, tactics, and doctrine. This permits great flexibility in simulation design and rapid modification of system types in complex simulations. However, the time and expense of developing complex simulations can be longer than desired. These costs can be mitigated by constructing scenarios for reuse and providing example scenarios for common use. In addition, a graphics user interface (GUI) can also facilitate reuse and perform some functions faster and more easily than can be achieved directly through simulation language text editing. This paper will discuss efforts in simulation construction, simulation reuse, and GUI development currently undertaken by the JIMM Model Management Office (JMMO).
Diabetes intervention therapy

The involvement of autoreactive T cells in autoimmune diseases suggests the potential for intervention therapy in the setting of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. In the nonobese diabetic mouse, diabetes and insulitis have been inhibited by the modification of an amino acid in the major histocompatibility complex and by administration of anti-I-A antibody. T-cell vaccination has been shown to prevent autoimmune disease in animal models, and research is ongoing to develop monoclonal antibodies to a variety of T-cell receptor components. Strategies assessed in the clinical context include the administration of azathioprine, cyclosporine, and the antioxidant nicotinamide. Other potential strategies include the induction of specific oral tolerance, insulin prophylaxis, immunoenhancement therapy, and dietary manipulation.
Initiation of corrosion in metal substrates coated with plasma-deposited hydrogenated amorphous silicon alloy ceramic thin films

Amorphous hydrogenated silicon, silicon nitride, silicon–carbon and boron-doped silicon–carbon films on molybdenum and aluminum substrates were evaluated as corrosion barriers. Specimens were anodically polarized in NaCl and Na2SO4 solutions and also treated with NaCl and Na2SO4 during exposure in an environmental chamber at 85% RH at 30°C. The silicon nitride and silicon–carbon films were inert and rendered substantial protection while the silicon films showed signs of extensive deterioration. Initiation sites for localized corrosion in the silicon nitride and silicon–carbon films were found not only at film pinholes caused by spallation, but also at microcracks and in regions where visible defects could not be detected using scanning electron microscopy.
Tables for a Precedence Life Test

A distribution-free, two-sample life test based on the order of early failures is presented. Tables are provided which cover all combinations of sample sizes up to twenty for one-sided (two-sided) significance levels of 0.05 (0.10), 0.025 (0.05), and 0.005 (0.01). An empirical approximation is given which yields critical values for any combination of sample sizes above five in the significance-level range of 0.005 to 0.10 (one-sided). The procedure is illustrated by worked examples.
Modulation of NO and ROS production by AdiNOS transduced vascular cells through supplementation with L-Arg and BH4: Implications for gene therapy of restenosis

Objective Gene therapy with viral vectors encoding for NOS enzymes has been recognized as a potential therapeutic approach for the prevention of restenosis. Optimal activity of iNOS is dependent on the intracellular availability of L-Arg and BH4 via prevention of NOS decoupling and subsequent ROS formation. Herein, we investigated the effects of separate and combined L-Arg and BH4 supplementation on the production of NO and ROS in cultured rat arterial smooth muscle and endothelial cells transduced with AdiNOS, and their impact on the antirestenotic effectiveness of AdiNOS delivery to balloon-injured rat carotid arteries.
Thiopeptide Synthesis. alpha-Amino Thionoacid Derivatives of Nitrobenzotriazole as Thioacylating Agents.

There has been considerable interest recently in the synthesis and properties of thiopeptides in which the -CSNH- group replaces one or more peptide bonds. These modified peptides have demonstrated increased activity in vivo as biological response modifiers, neuro-effectors, and immunomodulators due to the stability of their thioamide bonds toward enzymatic degradation as compared to that of their oxygenated counterpart. Synthetic routes employed to prepare these thiopeptides included replacement of oxygen by sulfur using P{sub 4}S{sub 10} or Lawesson`s phosphetane disulfide reagent, and thioesters or dithioesters of N-protected amino acids. Several procedures also have been reported for monothionation of peptides using N-protected amino monothioacids and benzotriazolyloxytris(pyrrolidino) phosphonium hexafluorophosphate (PYBOP) and some of its derivatives. Unfortunately, these methods displayed lack of reaction site specificity, low yields and purity because of side reactions, and loss of enantiomeric integrity in the final product, apparently because of racemization induced by the thioacylating agents. Recently, major improvement was described for the site specific incorporation of thioamide linkages into a growing peptide under mild conditions using thioacylbenzimidazolinones of amino acid derivatives as thioacylating agents. This method proceeds with about 2% loss of enantiomeric purity, as demonstrated by HPLC analysis of the reaction product 10a, formed in reactionmore » with {alpha}-methylbenzylamine. This procedure, although superior to previous methods, still suffers from the formation of benzimidazole 2 as a significant byproduct, and the overall yield for the four-step process was only about 20%. Furthermore, recent attempt to use this procedure failed due to the limited reactivity of the benzimidazolinone 4 as a thioacylating agent. To overcome these limitations, the authors have developed a new method for thiopeptide synthesis. 12 refs.« less
The optimal allocation of conservation funds

Abstract This paper presents a framework to evaluate alternative designs of conservation programs and their implications for the allocation of conservation funds. We show that the efficient allocation of conservation funds must consider two important “pooling” effects—cumulative effects and interrelationships among alternative environmental benefits. Ignoring the cumulative effects of environmental benefits may cause conservation funds to be overly dispersed geographically and, as a result, may result in minimum environmental benefits when the budget is small. Ignoring the interrelationships among alternative environmental benefits may result in not only misallocation of conservation funds among geographical areas, but also incorrect resources being targeted for conservation practices. Implications of these results for the design of conservation programs are discussed.
Meta-Coaxial Nanoantenna

Novel meta-coaxial nanoantennas are studied numerically, fabricated and experimentally characterized. These antennas provide local field enhancements of 200-800, super-localized fields with spatial FWHM of ~1nm, and wide spectral ranges with FWHM bandwidths greater than 900nm.
High Incidence of Technical Errors Involving the EEA Circular Stapler: A Single Institution Experience

Background The use of stapling devices is now widespread in colorectal resections. However, the incidence and clinical consequence of technical error involving the circular stapler are still poorly characterized. Study Design We reviewed the operative reports and Web-based charts for all colon and rectal resections performed at our institution that used a circular stapler. Technical error was defined as any deviation from the normal technical performance of the circular stapler, including, but not limited to, surgeon misfiring, incomplete anastomosis (inadequate donuts or staple line defects), and primary device failure. The unpaired t - and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis; p Results There were 349 colorectal resections performed and 67 (19%) featured a technical error. Thirty-two resections (9%) included an anastomotic error. The control group (n = 282) and the error group (n = 67) were comparable with regard to leaks, reoperation, suture line strictures, and hospital stay. The malfunction group had higher incidences of proximal diversions (34% versus 16%; p=0.0003), ileus (24% versus 8%; p=0.002), gastrointestinal bleeding (4% versus 0.4%; p=0.023), and transfusion requirements (13% versus 4%; p=0.004). Although proximal diversions in the error cohorts were also less likely to be planned (p Conclusions The incidence of technical error involving the circular stapler is considerable. Technical error was found to be associated with a significantly higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, transfusions, and unplanned proximal diversions.
Two-photon excitation spectrum of perylene in solution

Abstract Two-photon excitation of fluorescence from perylene in n-hexane solution at room temperature has been measured using both linear and circular polarized light over incident laser energies of 11760-18860 cm−1. From the observed peaks, their polarization ratio (Ω=Icir/Ilin), and a portion of the two-photon excitation (TPE) spectrum obtained from a 77 K isopentane glass, low-lying ππ* electronic states of gerade parity in the 23600-35700 cm−1 range, as well as a dipole-forbidden B3u− state below 26500 cm−1, have been located and characterized.
Fluorophores as visualization aides in agar growth media.

A survey of 26 fluorophores revealed 5 which were non-inhibitory toStaphylococcus aureus andEscherichia coli and produced low background and high colony fluorescence.
Fractal Compression and Adaptive Sampling With HV Partitioning: Accelerating the Scanning Process in Scanning Probe Microscopy

Typically, a scanning probe microscope (SPM) moves the scanning tip along a zig-zag trajectory. For a given scanning mechanism, the time needed to image an area depends mainly on the number of samples and the size of the image. The imaging speed is further compromised by drifts associated with the substrate and the piezo scanner. It is therefore desirable to improve the imaging speed with limited impact to the effective resolution of the resulting image. In this paper, an adaptive sampling algorithm based on the fractal compression theory of iterated transformations is proposed to address the tradeoff between scanning time and resolution. Instead of scanning a substrate pixel by pixel in an ordered way, the proposed adaptive algorithm starts with a coarse mode scan, measuring only the registered positions within blocks of determined size. Registered positions are defined to constitute the four corners of a specified block. A unique feature of the proposed algorithm is that if the differences among the four registered positions are greater than a preset threshold, the scan process will automatically switch from a coarse mode scan to a zoom-in mode scan. The original block is then divided into two subblocks with HV partitioning method. In the zoom-in mode scan, the microscope uses a finer resolution to scan one of two subblocks. Each sub-block is then treated as another specified block, and the process of coarse mode scanning is repeated until the desired image is synthesized. The main characteristic of this approach is based on the assumption that image redundancy can be efficiently exploited on a block-wise basis. This procedure is particularly relevant to SPMs designed around closed-loop feedback scanners which are gaining in popularity because of their ability to eliminate drift and hysterisis. By applying an adaptive sampling scheme, we have demonstrated that the number of the required samples can be significantly reduced and the scanning process can be accelerated with minimal impact to the image quality.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Constructions and reconstructions of self in virtual reality: Playing in the MUDs

There are over 300 multi‐user games based on at least 13 different kinds of software on the international computer network known as the Internet. Here I use the term “MUD “ to refer to all the various kinds. All provide worlds for social interaction in a virtual space, worlds in which you can present yourself as a “character,” in which you can be anonymous, in which you can play a role or roles as close or as far away from your “real self as you choose. In the MUDS, the projections of self are engaged in a resolutely postmodern context. Authorship is not only displaced from a solitary voice, it is exploded. The self is not only decentered but multiplied without limit. There is an unparalleled opportunity to play with one's identity and to “try out” new ones. MUDS are a new environment for the construction and reconstruction of self.
The pharmacokinetics and pharmacology of oral diltiazem in normal volunteers.

Oral diltiazem is being used increasingly in the treatment of Prinzmetal's angina. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics, electrocardiographic effects, and blood pressure responses of normal male volunteers to various single oral doses of diltiazem. Doses selected were 30, 60, 90, and 120 mg. Thirteen subjects received 30 mg. 12 subjects received 60 mg, 10 subjects received 90 mg diltiazem, and four subjects received 120 mg diltiazem AUCs for the 60, 90, and 120 mg doses were 565, 984, and 1258 ng/ml . hr, respectively. The values for t1/2, beta, and tmax were similar after each dosing.
In vitro responsiveness of lymphocytes to phytohemmagglutinin.

Abstract Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 20 human subjects exposed to 784 μg/m3 ozone for 4 hours, and from 11 subjects exposed to clean air for the same length of time were studied for in vitro responsiveness to phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Thymus-derived (T) lymphocyte response to PHA (normal response is proliferation of lymphocytes) was significantly suppressed (P < .01) in samples obtained immediately after subjects’ exposure to ozone. Recovery of response occurred 2 weeks postexposure. Responses were unchanged in subjects exposed to clean air. Existing studies suggest that ozone exposure may generate free radicals or other reactive molecules or both, that could be responsible for immediate changes in metabolic events leading to blockage or inhibition of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis in T lymphocytes as shown in this study. It is possible that some prerequisite to active cell metabolism such as ribonucleic acid (RNA) may be impaired by ozone exposure. The significance of the suppression of T-ce...
PTH-129 A Retrospective Audit Of Peg Indications And Complications At A District General Hospital Following The Introduction Of A Multi-disciplinary Nutrition Team

Introduction Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the preferred method for inserting feeding gastrostomy tubes. The national confidential enquiry into PEG outcomes showed that patient selection was paramount for improving associated mortality and morbidity rates [1] . We carried out a retrospective audit into the indications and complications associated with PEG insertion at West Suffolk Hospital, a district general hospital, during 2008–2009 and 2013. During this period a multidisciplinary nutrition team approach and PEG referral proforma were introduced. Methods Retrospective audit data were collected during two periods, January 2008 to December 2009 and January to September 2013. The indication for PEG, documentation of antibiotic prophylaxis, the presence of a MDT review and complications post PEG insertion were audited. Results 55 PEG placements occurred during the first audit cycle. 56% were inserted for dysphagia caused by cerebrovascular accident. Antibiotic prophylaxis were documented in 80% of cases. Seven patients did not have an MDT discussion during the admission. There were no immediate complications. Three patients died within 30 days of PEG insertion (two died of pneumonia and one from large bowel obstruction). There were 36 PEG insertions during the second audit cycle. 39% were inserted for dysphagia caused by CVA. Antibiotic prophylaxis were documented in 83% of cases. All patients had an MDT discussion. Two immediate complications were reported. There were no reported deaths 30 days post procedure. Conclusion Following the introduction of a systematic MDT approach to PEG, there has been a reduction in 30 day mortality post-PEG insertion. When carefully monitored the use of PEG for long term enteral feeding can be used safely and successfully in a district general hospital. Reference Simon D, Johnston Tony CK, Tham Marisa Mason, Death after PEG: results of the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy August 2008; 68(2):Pages 223–227, ISSN 0016–5107 Disclosure of Interest None Declared.
Optimization Techniques in Occupational Biomechanics

In most detailed representations of joint mechanics incorporating the effects of muscle forces in biomechanical models the number of available force-carrying structures crossing the joints are in excess of the number of available equilibrium of the joint. Unless one makes gross anatomical and functional simplifications, the mathematical description of joint mechanics involves an undetermined set of equations. Different approaches have been taken by researchers to solve this statically indeterminate problem, but the intuitive reasonableness of optimization in body function has led investigators to use numeral optimization procedures in the prediction of muscle force activity. This paper reviews and evaluates various optimization techniques applied to occupational biomechanics.
Effects of salinity on solute clearance from the freshwater bivalve, Dreissena polymorpha Pallas

Clearance of polyethylene glycol (PEG), inulin, or dextran that had been injected into the hemolymph of the mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, was measured in animals acclimated to pondwater (PW) or 10% seawater (SW). In addition, we measured the clearance of PEG from mussels acutely transferred into 10% SW and following return to PW after acclimation to 10% SW. Clearance values calculated for PW-acclimated mussels ranged from 2.0 to 3.3 ml (g dry tissue · h)−1 and declined to 0.28 ml (g dry tissue · h)−1 in 10% SW-acclimated animals. Transferring mussels into 10% SW resulted in a reduction in PEG clearance from the blood, coincident with the reduction of osmotic gradient. When 10% SW-acclimated mussels were returned to PW the clearance of PEG increased to rates observed in PW-acclimated animals within 1 h. The PEG clearance remained constant during the re-acclimation to PW even though the osmotic gradient declined from about 100 to 30 mosmol kg−1. Clearance of the solutes used in this study was likely to be a measurement of renal filtration rate. The clearance values appeared to be maximal when the animals were in PW. The limited capacity to increase clearance in the face of an osmotic challenge may be a critical factor in restricting D. polymorpha to freshwater or lower salinity environments with small ranges in salinity.
Transcription in maize mitochondria: effects of tissue and mitochondrial genotype

Mitochondrial run-on assays were used to determine transcriptional rates for nine B37(N) maize mitochondrial genes. Quantiation by radiographic imaging detected a 15-fold range in transcriptional rates; the order of apparent promoter strength was rps12>rrn26>atp6>rrn18>cox2>atpα>atp9>cox3> cob. By probing single-stranded DNAs of both polarities with the run-on-products we showed that gene-specific antisense transcription did not occur. We also tested whether relative transcriptional rates were dependent on either the mitochondrial genotype or the tissue from which the mitochondria were isolated. Although tissue-specific differences in transcriptional rates were not detected, significant variation in apparent promoter strength for at least one gene, rps12, was dependent on the cytoplasmic genotype; rps12 had a five-fold reduced transcriptional rate in B37(T), the Texas male cytoplasmic strain of maize. Pulse-chase experiments suggested that differential transcript stability was not a major determinant of steady state mitochondrial RNA levels. These results indicate not only that promoter strength is an important component of the regulation of transcript levels in maize mitochondria, but also that the strength of a specific gene promoter can be dependent on the cytoplasmic genotype. Finally, the high transcriptional rate of both ribosomal RNA genes and the one mitochondrially encoded ribosomal protein gene studied suggests coordinate transcriptional regulation of both RNA and protein components of the mitochondrial ribosome.
Photochemical mobilization of ferritin iron

The release of Fe from horse spleen ferritin through photochemical reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ was studied in vitro. Spectrophotometric measurement of the Fe(Ferrozine)3 4- complex (specific for Fe2+) was used to quantify rates of Fe2+ mobilization. Light radiation from cool white fluorescent plus incandescent bulbs effectively promoted the rate of Fe2+ release. Compounds known to be present in plants provided further regulation of photorelease. Reductive removal from ferritin was inhibited by phosphate, and hydroxide, whereas citrate, oxalate, tartrate, and caffeate enhanced the release. Of the organic acids studied, caffeate was the only compound which induced detectable Fe2+ mobilization in the absence of irradiation. Rate constants for photorelease ranged from 2.7 × 10-3 sec-1 (pH = 4.6) to 2.1 × 10-3 sec-1 (pH = 7.1) at 26.5°C. These findings provide one possible explanation for the low level of ferritin-Fe in healthy, illuminated plant tissue.
Flame Wall-Quenching by Radiation and Conduction in Combustion of Condensed Fuels

Abstract The effect of thermal radiation and conduction on the cold-wall flame-quenching distance in the combustion of condensed fuels is studied by use of a simple physical model under steady-state, no-flow conditions. The singular perturbation technique is employed for the flame layer analysis, and the quenching layer is assumed to be optically thin. The quenching distance is obtained as a function of various thermophysical and radiative parameters such as the conduction-radiation ratio, optical thickness and heat generation intensity by chemical reactions. A new dimensionless group, the modified Damkohler number, which characterizes the relative strength of heat generation to radiation transport, emerges from the analysis. Also, the present analysis suggests a potential experimental scheme for measuring the extinction temperature in the specified combustion configurations.
Student Team Project: Gender Differences in Team Project Experience and Attitudes Toward Team-Based Work

The development of favorable behaviors and attitudes in team-based work is crucial in hospitality and tourism education. In this article, the authors examine the gender difference in team project experience and attitudes toward team-based work among students majoring in hospitality management. Female students have attitudes toward team-based work that are more negative than male students. Also, gender is a significant moderator in that female students' perception of a group's teamwork, in comparison with that of male students, is more significant in predicting student attitudes. Implications of these findings for hospitality and tourism educators are discussed.
“Intricate Lettings Out and Lettings In”: Listener Scaffolding of Narrative Identity in Newly Dating Romantic Partners

The development of narrative identity occurs within storytelling contexts, and the present study examined the role of listener behaviors in this process. Methodology developed within studies of mother–child conversations was used to examine how listener behaviors are associated with the meanings that individuals make of their personal stories in conversations with their romantic partners and in subsequent private reflection. Fifty-two “speakers” shared an important personal memory with their partner. These narratives were coded for meaning-making (self-event connections), and listener turns were coded for scaffolding behaviors (positive responding, new interpretations, negations). Overall, a summary composite score of scaffolding behavior was associated with more meaning produced in the conversation and afterwards. Further analyses showed that scaffolding behavior was particularly important to the production of negative meanings, and specific types of scaffolding behaviors also interacted with each other ...
Synthesis of a Ring‐Rigid Disaccharide Model for Studies of Alkaline Chain Cleavage in Cellulose

Abstract 2,6‐Anhydro‐1,3‐O‐methylene‐5‐O‐(4,6‐O‐methylene‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐D‐glycero‐D‐gulitol (1) was synthesized as a non‐reducing cellulose model compound for studying high temperature alkaline cleavage of the glucosidic linkage. The pyranoid rings of 1 are limited in their ability to change conformation by the methylene moieties attached to each ring. Thus the compound more closely models the situation for internal glycosidic linkages of cellulose. A related model with the 2′ hydroxyl group etherified, 2,6‐anhydro‐1,3‐O‐methylene‐5‐O‐(2‐O‐methyl‐4,6‐O‐methylene‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)‐D‐glycero‐D‐gulitol (2) was also synthesized. #Alkaline Degradation of Glycosides. Part 5.
Introduction: feature issue on phantoms for the performance evaluation and validation of optical medical imaging devices.

The editors introduce the Biomedical Optics Express feature issue on “Phantoms for the Performance Evaluation and Validation of Optical Medical Imaging Devices.” This topic was the focus of a technical workshop that was held on November 7–8, 2011, in Washington, D.C. The feature issue includes 13 contributions from workshop attendees.
Response of older people to impaired appearance: The effect of age on disturbance by Vitiligo

Abstract This article investigates the effect of age on response to impaired appearance. The sample consists of 269 patients with vitiligo, a disease that causes progressive depigmentation. Linear regression is utilized to investigate the importance of age compared to other variables in predicting degree of disturbance by the disease. Although older patients manifest disturbance, they are significantly less upset by appearance impairment than are younger adults. The effect of age is direct, and is significant even when other variables are held constant; its effect is not mediated by intervening factors such as perceived discrimination, self-esteem, or importance of appearance, although older people do receive more support from others. The relative strength of age compared to other variables in the equation is evaluated, and an explanation of why older people seem to cope better with appearance impairment is suggested.
On the Expansion of Nonlinear Models Using Bell-Shaped Basis Functions

We propose a method that approximates any nonlinear model, without regard to complexity, by minimizing its distance from a rich model set. The method produces, potentially through an automated procedure, the approximation of the nonlinear dynamics in the form of a finite expansion associated with certain basis functions and provides an upper bound on the approximation error.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Interview: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia: treating an incurable disease

Thomas J Kipps speaks to Sophie Breeze, Assistant Commissioning Editor: Thomas Kipps, MD, PhD, is Professor of Medicine, Evelyn and Edwin Tasch Chair in Cancer Research, and Deputy Director of Research Operations at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center. Dr Kipps has a national and international reputation for his work in cancer research, immunology and gene therapy. As Deputy Director of Research Operations, Dr Kipps is working to further integrate basic and translational research investigators at the Moores Cancer Center with clinical investigators, epidemiologists and physicians offering state-of-the art therapies for patients with various forms of cancer. A major focus of his laboratory group is the immunobiology and genetics of human B-cell, with emphasis on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Discovery of features that distinguish CLL from their normal cell counterparts has helped identify new targets for therapy and/or define surrogate markers associated with more rapid rates of cancer progression ...
Visual mental images can be ambiguous: Insights from individual differences in spatial transformation abilities.

The debate about whether objects in mental images can be ambiguous has produced ambiguous results. In some studies, participants could not reinterpret objects in images, but even in the studies where participants could reinterpret visualized patterns, the results are not conclusive. The present study used a novel task to investigate the reinterpretation of ambiguous figures in imagery, which required the participants to mentally rotate a figure 180 degrees before attempting to "see" an alternate interpretation. In addition, the participants did not know the purpose of the study in advance, nor did they see alternate interpretations of the stimuli; moreover, we explicitly measured individual differences in key mental imagery abilities. Eight of the 44 participants discovered the alternate version while they were memorizing the figure; 16 reported it after mentally rotating an image; and 20 were not able to "see" the alternate version. The ability to rotate images, assessed with an independent task, was highly associated with reports of image reversals, whereas measures of other imagery abilities were not.
Identification of the Secondary Degradates of L-648,548 in an Animal Health Formulation

L-648,548 is a semisynthetic analog of avermectin. During stability investigations of this compound in an animal health formulation, two new degradates were discovered. These degradates (L-648,548 phenol and its 8,9-Z isomer) were identified as the reaction products of 5-oxo-L-648,548 formed by oxidation of L-648,548. Addition of base to the reaction medium containing 5-oxo-L-648,548 was found to catalyze the formation of L-648,548 phenol via a postulated dehydration by an E1cb elimination followed by the rapid tautomerization of the C5 carbonyl. Photolysis of L-648,548 phenol with visible light (including ambient laboratory lighting) was found to readily produce 8,9-Z-L-648,548 phenol. This transformation was confirmed to be exclusively a photoinduced process.