cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the RIASEC circumplex using high-point codes

Abstract The fit of the circumplex structure to Holland RIASEC codes was examined using loglinear analysis. Two letter high-point code frequency tables of the four Self-Directed Search norm samples (male college students, female college students, male high school students, and female high school students) and Holland's translation of Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) occupations were examined with respect to how they met the assumptions involved in Holland's circumplex model. Results indicated that when account was taken of base rate differences in Holland codes, the circumplex model was a good fit to the data. The results have implications for the measurement of RIASEC types and the definition and interpretation of Holland's constructs of consistency and person-environment congruence.
Phase II trial of recombinant beta (IFN-betaser) interferon in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.

Nine patients with metastatic breast cancer received 30 × 106 I.U. of Interferon — Betaser (Betaseron) intravenously daily times five for two consecutive weeks followed by a two week rest period. Only one patient received more than one such cycle of Betaseron. The drug was well tolerated in eight of these patients. One patient, with liver metastases and liver dysfunction, developed hepatic decompensation during therapy. Toxicity consisted of anorexia, chills, fever, fatigue and nausea with an occasional patient having emesis. One patient developed severe thrombocytopenia, two, significant leukopenia and nine, mild elevations of serum transaminase. Two patients developed beta interferon binding antibodies but none developed neutralizing antibodies. No anti-tumor responses were seen and disease progression occurred rapidly during the four week cycle in eight of nine patients.
Public service announcements (PSA) to facilitate dietary supplement education

Abstract Objective To implement and assess a revised public service announcement (PSA) project facilitating dietary supplement education (DS) in a required self-care course. Methods In 2012, students completed a PSA project as part of a team-based learning activity. In 2013, both PSA audience and topics were revised to be more specific and applicable to current trends. A new rubric that standardized the grading was used. Each student was responsible for an individual project consisting of a one-page summary on DS marketing examples, monographs, disease-specific counseling, or audience-specific counseling points. Students completed an anonymous Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved survey assessing the format, individual project, and use of pharmacy resources. Results Of 123 surveys, 74 were completed. Of the students who responded, 86.5% agreed that the PSA activity enhanced their understanding of DS and 85.2% agreed that group members contributed equally to the project. Three quarters agreed that the PSA project was a worthwhile experience. Only 44.6% of students agreed that the individual assignment helped them create a better PSA. Over 90% of students agreed that they used multiple resources on their individual project, with over two-thirds reporting that they learned to better use pharmacy resources. Approximately half of those surveyed agreed the individual project was a worthwhile experience. Watching PSAs in class helped students learn better about DS and made them feel more engaged in class. Conclusions Most students agreed that the overall PSA project enhanced their understanding of dietary supplements. Revision of the project timeline will likely improve student involvement and preparedness for the PSA.
Breast cancer followed by corpus cancer: is there a higher risk for aggressive histologic subtypes?

Abstract Objective. To analyze corpus cancer patients with a breast cancer history for risk of developing aggressive uterine histologic types. Methods. Corpus cancer patients with a history of breast cancer were identified from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results database from 1988 to 2001. Demographics, clinico-pathologic, and survival data were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier and logistic regression analyses. Results. Of 52,109 women diagnosed with corpus cancer, 1922 had a history of breast cancer. Women with a history of breast cancer had a significantly higher proportion of uterine papillary serous carcinomas (UPSC) and sarcomas compared to those without a breast cancer history (9.4% vs. 6.3% for UPSC and 10.3% vs. 8.4% for sarcoma; P P P Conclusion. In this study, the proportional incidence of UPSC and sarcoma was significantly higher in women with a breast cancer history. These findings highlight the association of breast cancer and high-risk corpus cancer subtypes.
EFFECTS OF HYBRIDIZATION AND INBREEDING ON FITNESS IN PHLOX

The effects of interpopulation hybridization, and self-fertilization and immigration on fitness in Phlox drummondii were analyzed in 5 natural field sites. Germination rates, survivorship to flowering, fecundity, and net reproductive rates (RO) were determined for planted populations of natives, hybrids, aliens, and the products of one and two generations of self-fertilization. At all sites, seed germination was 36% for natives, 35% for hybrids and 28% for aliens. Survivorship for natives was 50%, compared to 49% for hybrids and 41% for aliens. The mean fecundity was 34, 35, and 39 seeds per plant for natives, hybrids, and aliens, respectively. The Ro of natives averaged 5.2 vs. 6.4 for hybrids and 4.2 aliens. At all the sites, germination averaged 25% for self-I plants and 19% for self-2 plants compared to 24% for open-pollinated controls. Survivorship progressed from 50% in the confrols to 46% in self- I and 44% in self-2 plants. Seed production per plant averaged 35% in the control vs. 32% in the self-I and 25% in the self-2 plants. The mean Ro of the control was 3.8 vs. 3.3 in the self-I and 2.14 in the self-2 plants. Our results demonstrate that the genetic variable may have a substantial effect on plant fitness in the field. IN PLANTS, the indeterminate growth pattern coupled with phenotypic plasticity provides the potential for manifest fitness differences between individuals in the same population. This potential is realized in natural populations where size and fecundity distributions are L-shaped, i.e., positively skewed from a lognormal distribution (Levin and Wilson, 1978; Clay and Shaw, 1981; Schmitt, 1983; Kelly,
Factors used by pharmacy residency programs to select residents.

Obtaining a pharmacy residency training position is becoming competitive as the number of applicants participating in the ASHP Resident Matching Program (RMP) exceeds the number of positions.[1][1]–[3][2] The competitive nature of the RMP impresses on applicants the need to thoroughly prepare for
Report on the use of ion mobilities to study phase transitions in liquid 4HE

We have measured positive and negative ion mobilities near the lambda transition, and positive ion mobilities and shear viscosities near the melting transition in liquid ^4He. The results and their proposed interpretations are presented and discussed. In each of these cases, the ions studied are unshielded charges of sufficiently low density not to interact directly with each other (current densities are ⋍ 10^(-12)amps/cm^2). Our basic description of conduction is hydrodynamic, governed by the shear viscosity. The hydrodynamic problem, however, is modified by the effects of electrostriction, and particularly by the fact that the ion tends to induce about itself the very phase transition under study. An apparent depression of the lambda transition observed in the mobility is explained by the presence of such an electrostively induced normal region surrounding the ion.
Applying Sport Psychology Philosophies, Principles, and Practices onto the Gridiron: A Commentary

INTRODUCTION In reading the interview by Mike Voight with coach Pete Carroll of USC, my first reaction was: Pete Carroll sure does make the game seem pretty simple. It is just a matter of knowing oneself, being true to oneself, and believing in oneself, the coaches, and the team concept. How much simpler can it be? When I received this manuscript, I immediately thought of a television sports talk show, which was aired several months ago, focusing on an interview with Coach Carroll. I was struck by the poise, openness, thoughtfulness, and candidness of Coach Carroll. He said all of the things I would want to hear from a coach, if I was wearing my sport psychologist hat. More important, he talked the language I would want to hear as a parent if I had a child talented enough to play collegiate athletics.
Sensor Test Platform for Rapid Pressure Indicating Sensors

Maximum life cycles for rapidly pressurized cylinders can be obtained by knowing precisely the number and severity of pressurizations of the cylinder through sensor measurement. The development of sensors that are capable of quickly registering pressurizations and stresses in a pressurized cylinder requires a test platform that can rapidly pressurize a cylinder while being able to control speed of pressurization, pressure in cylinder, cyclical timing of pressurization, and the number of pressurizations. In this paper, the test platform is being developed using an impact load to rapidly pressurize the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic cylinder. The impact pressure is created by a falling mass which strikes the piston of a hydraulic cylinder, which creates an impact pressure from the impact load. Due to the nature of the cylinder, a small amount of air remains in the cylinder; by varying the amount of air in the cylinder the pressurization rate can be controlled. The platform will allow for the gathering of vital information regarding the applications of varying pressurization time and magnitude and the ability of various sensors to register and properly determine the magnitude of the pressurization. Information gathered through the usage of this test platform will be vital to several departmental projects; including the stress assessment and fatigue prediction of thick pressurized cylinders.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Personality correlates of the clinical sequelae of genital herpes

Abstract Genital herpes is a chronic infection void of biological cure. However, psychological stress has been suggested as a predetermining factor in both symptom recurrence and length of outbreak for this disease. Consequently, the present study examined the relationship between three personality variables (Masturbatory Guilt, Panic/Fear, and Repression/Sensitization) and the clinical sequelae of genital herpes. Using 66 men drawn from a nationwide herpes support group, the present study demonstrated that the three personality constructs were highly related to the psychophysical and psychological consequences of the herpes virus. Although methodological limitations are apparent in this investigation, the results provide direction for future research on symptom recurrences and risks for transmitting this disease.
The Role of Domain Satisfaction in Explaining the Paradoxical Association Between Life Satisfaction and Age

Although aging is associated with declines in many life domains, overall life satisfaction does not appear to decline sharply with age. One explanation for this paradoxical finding is that several life domains improve with age such that increases in certain domains balance the decreases in others. Because different issues are problematic at different life stages, it is likely that specific domains display different life trajectories compared to overall life satisfaction. The observed pattern for overall life satisfaction is likely due to a bottom-up approach. Life and domain satisfaction data from 8 years of the British Household Panel Study were analyzed to evaluate this hypothesis. Results indicated that satisfaction with some life domains increased after middle age (e.g. social life), whereas satisfaction with other life domains decreased (e.g. health). Additionally, results illustrated that although domain satisfaction scores demonstrate distinct trajectories, the aggregate of these distinct domains resembled the overall life satisfaction trajectory. These findings have implications for top-down and bottom-up models of life satisfaction.
Martian North Polar Cap, 1962–1968

Abstract A six-year observational study of the physical aspects of the Martian arctic region is reported. North Cap regression curves obtained during three Martian spring-summer seasons exhibit seasonal behavior and have similar physical signatures. The cap appears to temporarily halt its retreat when an arctic haze forms over the region during maximum rate of regression just prior to summer solstice. The arctic climate appeared cooler during the 1966–1967 apparition than during the previous two similar Martian seasons. The peripheral aspects of the North Cap have not basically altered over the past 90 years.
parkin mutation analysis in clinic patients with early‐onset Parkinson's disease

parkin mutations are the most common identified cause of Parkinson's disease (PD). It has been suggested that patients with young-onset PD be screened for parkin mutations as a part of their clinical work-up. The aim of this study was to assess parkin mutation frequency in a clinical setting, correlate genotype with phenotype, and evaluate the current justification for clinical parkin testing. Patients were selected from a movement disorder clinic based on diagnosis of PD and onset age ≤40 years. parkin was genotyped by sequence and dosage analysis for all 12 exons. Key relatives and controls were screened for identified mutations. Mutations were found in 7/39 patients. Two patients were compound heterozygous; five were heterozygous. Mutations included deletions in exons 2, 3, and 8, duplications in exons 2–4, and 9, and P437L substitution. Seventy-eight percent of mutations were deletions/multiplications. A novel substitution (R402W) was found in one patient and in one control. None of the point mutations found in patients were detected in 96 controls. parkin phenotypes were consistent with idiopathic PD. In conclusion, parkin mutations are common in the clinic setting: 10% of PD patients had early-onset and 18% of them had parkin mutations. However, if parkin is recessive, only 5% of early-onset cases who had compound mutations could be attributed to this locus. Mutation frequency was 0.12 (95% CI 0.04–0.19). parkin cases can present as typical idiopathic PD, distinguishable only by molecular testing. Seventy percent of parkin cases were heterozygous. It is unclear whether heterozygous mutations are pathogenic. parkin-based diagnosis and counseling require a better understanding of the mode of inheritance, penetrance, and carrier frequencies. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Is Business Ethics Education Effective? An Analysis of Gender, Personal Ethical Perspectives, and Moral Judgment

Although ethics instruction has become an accepted part of the business school curriculum at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, some scholars have questioned its effectiveness, and research results have been mixed. However, studies yield interesting results regarding certain factors that influence the ethicality of business students and may impact the effectiveness of business ethics instruction. One of these factors is gender. Using personal and business ethics scenarios, we examine the main and interactive effects of gender and business ethics education on moral judgment. We then analyze the relationships between gender and business ethics education on personal ethical perspectives. Our results indicate that women are generally more inclined to act ethically than men, but paradoxically women who have had business ethics instruction are less likely to respond ethically to business situations. In addition, men may be more responsive to business ethics education than women. Finally, women’s personal ethical orientations may become more relativistic after taking a business ethics class.
A comparison of phototautomerism in different sites of free-base porphin (H2P) in n-alkane crystals

Abstract Selective laser-induced phototautomerism of free-base porphin in different n -alkanes ( n -hexane, n -heptane, n -octane, n nonane, n -decane, n -undecane and n -dodecane) has been used to identify tautomer splittings in a number of sites in polycrystalline samples at 2 K. Pairs or lines arising from the two molecular orientations in each site can be reversibly transformed into each other. In the odd n -alkanes the occupation of different sites was not dependent on the rate at which the samples were frozen, but in the even n -alkanes metastable sites were only occupied following rapid quenching.
Putting restrained and unrestrained nondieters on short-term diets: Effects on eating☆

This study examined the joint effect of restrained eating status and short-term food restriction on ice cream consumption in the laboratory. Restrained and unrestrained eaters who were not dieting were asked to restrict their food intake for 2 days or to continue eating normally. They then engaged in an ostensible taste test of ice cream. A restraint x restriction interaction was found for ice cream consumption. Among unrestrained eaters, restricted subjects ate more than unrestricted ones; among restrained eaters, the opposite eating pattern was found. These results were attributed to the differential sensitivity of restrained and unrestrained eaters to the internal and external eating cues manipulated in the study.
Nifedipine administered after reperfusion ablates systolic contractile dysfunction of postischemic stunned myocardium

Recent evidence suggests that postischemic contractile dysfunction of viable myocardium salvaged by reperfusion ("stunned myocardium") may be a consequence of abnormal calcium flux within the previously ischemic cells. Calcium channel blocking agents have been shown to enhance contractile function of stunned postischemic tissue, but it is not certain whether these improvements in function are due to the profound hemodynamic and vasodilator effects of these agents or to a direct effect on calcium flux within the stunned myocytes. Therefore, the effects of 1) high doses of nifedipine, given intravenously at 30 min after reperfusion, and 2) minute doses of nifedipine, infused directly into the coronary circulation at 30 min after reflow, were assessed and compared in anesthetized open chest dogs subjected to 15 min of transient coronary artery occlusion. As anticipated, intravenous nifedipine significantly reduced arterial pressure and increased regional myocardial blood flow. In addition, intravenous nifedipine restored systolic contractile function of the stunned, previously ischemic tissue to essentially normal preocclusion values: segment shortening averaged 102 +/- 8% versus 26 +/- 11% of baseline at 2 h after treatment in treated versus control dogs, respectively (p less than 0.003). Low dose intracoronary infusion of nifedipine did not alter hemodynamic variables or myocardial blood flow, but did improve segment shortening (90 +/- 9% versus 37 +/- 10% of preocclusion values at 1 h after treatment versus 25 min after reperfusion [that is, pretreatment], respectively; p less than 0.03). These data indicate that the calcium channel blocking agent nifedipine, given 30 min after reperfusion, enhances systolic contractile function of postischemic stunned myocardium.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
A New Pathotype of Meloidogyne chitwoodi Race 1 from Washington State.

Meloidogyne chitwoodi Golden et al. is a serious pest of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), and is widespread in the Pacific Northwest United States. M. chitwoodi is currently reported to consist of two host races and one pathotype (2,3) that are not distinguished morphologically. Host race 1 reproduces on Chantenay carrot but not on Thor alfalfa and host race 2 reproduces on alfalfa but not on carrot. Both races fail to reproduce on roots of S. bulbocastanum, a wild potato species used as a source of resistance in our breeding program (1). The resistance to race 1 in S. bulbocastanum is attributed to Rmc1(blb) gene. Pathotype 1 of race 2 breaks resistance and reproduces on S. bulbocastanum (2). We have tested resistant breeding lines repeatedly in Prosser, WA field plots infested with MC race 1 and harvested tubers free from M. chitwoodi damage. In 2004 however, tubers of some resistant lines were damaged by the M. chitwoodi population that did not cause damage in the past. Populations of M. chitwoodi were established on tomato by adding peels obtained from the infected tubers of resistant lines. The reproductive factor, final number of eggs ÷ initial inoculum, of the new population was determined on five replications of 3-week-old Chantenay carrot and Thor alfalfa. Five thousand eggs were extracted from nematode cultures reared on tomatoes and then were added around the root system of the test plants. The plants were maintained in the greenhouse for 55 days before the nematode eggs were extracted and RF (reproductive factor = final/initial population) values determined. Like the MC race 1, new populations reproduced on Chantenay carrot (RF > 1) but failed to reproduce on Thor alfalfa (RF 1). These results suggest that the selected population of M. chitwoodi in the Prosser site is a new pathotype, which is designated pathotype 1 of MC race 1. References: (1) C. R. Brown et al. Am. J. Potato Res. 83:1, 2006. (2) H. Mojtahedi et al. J. Nematol. 30:506, 1998. (3) G. S. Santo et al. Plant Dis. 69:361, 1985.
Inhibition of hydroxyl radical reaction with aromatics by dissolved natural organic matter

Reaction of aromatic compounds with hydroxyl radical is inhibited by dissolved natural organic matter (NOM). The degree of inhibition is significantly greater than that expected based on a simple model in which aromatic compound molecules bound to NOM are considered to be unreactive. In this study, hydroxyl radical was produced at steady-state concentrations using Fenton chemistry (H2O2 + Fe2+ → Fe3+ + HO- + HO·). Suwannee River fulvic acid and humic acid were used as NOM. The most likely mechanism for the observed inhibition is that hydroxyl radical formation occurs in microenvironmental sites remote from the aromatic compounds. In addition to changes in kinetics, pyrene hydroxyl radical reaction also exhibited a mechanistic change in the presence of fulvic acid. The mechanism changed from a reaction that was apparently first-order in pyrene to one that was apparently second-order in pyrene, indicating that pyrene self-reaction may have become the dominant mechanism in the presence of fulvic acid. Dissol...
Mitofusins and the mitochondrial permeability transition: the potential downside of mitochondrial fusion

Mitofusins (Mfn-1 and Mfn-2) are transmembrane proteins that bind and hydrolyze guanosine 5′-triphosphate to bring about the merging of adjacent mitochondrial membranes. This event is necessary for mitochondrial fusion, a biological process that is critical for organelle function. The broad effects of mitochondrial fusion on cell bioenergetics have been extensively studied, whereas the local effects of mitofusin activity on the structure and integrity of the fusing mitochondrial membranes have received relatively little attention. From the study of fusogenic proteins, theoretical models, and simulations, it has been noted that the fusion of biological membranes is associated with local perturbations on the integrity of the membrane that present in the form of lipidic holes which open on the opposing bilayers. These lipidic holes represent obligate intermediates that make the fusion process thermodynamically more favorable and at the same time induce leakage to the fusing membranes. In this perspectives article we present the relevant evidence selected from a spectrum of membrane fusion/leakage models and attempt to couple this information with observations conducted with cardiac myocytes or mitochondria deficient in Mfn-1 and Mfn-2. More specifically, we argue in favor of a situation whereby mitochondrial fusion in cardiac myocytes is coupled with outer mitochondrial membrane destabilization that is opportunistically employed during the process of mitochondrial permeability transition. We hope that these insights will initiate research on this new hypothesis of mitochondrial permeability transition regulation, a poorly understood mitochondrial function with significant consequences on myocyte survival.
Scalable Bayesian human-robot cooperation in mobile sensor networks

In this paper, scalable collaborative human-robot systems for information gathering applications are approached as a decentralized Bayesian sensor network problem. Human-computer augmented nodes and autonomous mobile sensor platforms are collaborating on a peer-to-peer basis by sharing information via wireless communication network. For each node, a computer (onboard the platform or carried by the human) implements both a decentralized Bayesian data fusion algorithm and a decentralized Bayesian control negotiation algorithm. The individual node controllers iteratively negotiate anonymously with each other in the information space to find cooperative search plans based on both observed and predicted information that explicitly consider the platforms (humans and robots) motion models, their sensors detection functions, as well as the target arbitrary motion model. The results of a collaborative multi-target search experiment conducted with a team of four autonomous mobile sensor platforms and five humans carrying small portable computers with wireless communication are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the approach.
Democracy and war: Some thoughts on future research agenda

There is a burgeoning literature on the relationship between democracy and war. Building on the knowledge already gained on this topic; this paper suggests several areas for further verification, clarification, and extension. It addresses especially the need to attend to data coding conventions, opportunity asymmetries, context‐specific explanations, reciprocal causality, historical contingency, and rules of translation between different levels of analysis.
Quantum lithography: status of the field

This contribution provides an analysis of progress in the field of quantum lithography. We review the conceptual foundations of this idea and the status of research aimed at implementing this idea in the laboratory. The selection of a highly sensitive recording material that functions by means of multiphoton absorption seems crucial to the success of the proposal of quantum lithography. This review thus devotes considerable attention to these materials considerations.
Interacting magnetic nanoparticle clusters for enhancing magnetic particle imaging performance

In this paper, improved magnetic properties of interacting MNPs may be very useful not only for MPI but also for magnetic particle hyperthermia, magnetic relaxation imaging, and contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.
GLC Determination of 1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)-2-aminopropane in Urine

A rapid, sensitive, and accurate GLC method of analysis of a new anticonvulsant drug, 1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)-2-aminopropane, was developed, utilizing an acid hydrolysis procedure to increase its degree of recovery from urine and employing one of its isomers, 1-(2,3-dimethylphenoxy)-2-aminopropane, as an internal standard.
MPI for Big Data

We present BDMPI, a system for running MPI programs transparently out-of-core.We evaluate BDMPI on two small compute clusters.BDMPI is significantly faster than competing frameworks.BDMPI performs within 30% of optimized out-of-core implementations. The processing of massive amounts of data on clusters with finite amount of memory has become an important problem facing the parallel/distributed computing community. While MapReduce-style technologies provide an effective means for addressing various problems that fit within the MapReduce paradigm, there are many classes of problems for which this paradigm is ill-suited. In this paper we present a runtime system for traditional MPI programs that enables the efficient and transparent out-of-core execution of distributed-memory parallel programs. This system, called BDMPI,1The source code is available at http://glaros.dtc.umn.edu/gkhome/bdmpi/download.1 leverages the semantics of MPI's API to orchestrate the execution of a large number of MPI processes on much fewer compute nodes, so that the running processes maximize the amount of computation that they perform with the data fetched from the disk. BDMPI enables the development of efficient out-of-core parallel distributed memory codes without the high engineering and algorithmic complexities associated with multiple levels of blocking. BDMPI achieves significantly better performance than existing technologies on a single node as well as on a small cluster, and performs within 30% of optimized out-of-core implementations.
Security Commitments and Nuclear Proliferation

This article develops a theory connecting security commitments and the decision to acquire nuclear weapons. In a threatening environment, third party security commitments can reduce a state's fear of abandonment in the event of war and its motive for acquiring nuclear weapons. However, a threatened state may reject at least some kinds of security commitments, such as foreign deployed nuclear weapons, if it fears that such commitments increase the risks of entrapment, the possibility that the threatened state will be dragged into a war it would like to avoid. The article looks at three kinds of security commitments, alliances, foreign deployed nuclear weapons, and foreign deployed troops. In quantitative tests, it finds strong evidence that foreign deployed nuclear weapons reduce proliferation motives, only very limited evidence that alliances reduce proliferation motives, and no evidence that foreign deployed troops reduce proliferation motives. It also presents several qualitative evidence, which supports the quantitative evidence, and in particular helps explain why alliance ties sometimes do not prevent proliferation.
The effects of an introductory computer course on the attitudes of older adults towards computers

An introductory computer course was offered to adults 60 years and older. A computer attitude survey was administered before and after the course in order to uncover preexisting concerns and reveal those attitudes most affected by the course. Attitudes following the course were marked by highly positive changes. Survey results revealed that after the course the participants felt better acquainted with computer terminology, less left out because they are unfamiliar with computers, less apprehensive about using a computer, and more certain of their ability to interpret a computer printout. An interaction diary maintained by each of the participants revealed enthusiastic learners who were eager to take more courses in the future. Contrary to widely held stereotypes, many older adults view computer technology favorably and can benefit from acquisition of basic computer skills.
Prevalence of Severe Hypovitaminosis D in Patients With Persistent, Nonspecific Musculoskeletal Pain

Objective To determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in primary care outpatients with persistent, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain syndromes refractory to standard therapies. Patients and Methods In this cross-sectional study, 150 patients presented consecutively between February 2000 and June 2002 with persistent, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain to the Community University Health Care Center, a university-affiliated inner city primary care clinic in Minneapolis, Minn (45° north). Immigrant (n=83) and nonimmigrant (n=67) persons of both sexes, aged 10 to 65 years, from 6 broad ethnic groups were screened for vitamin D status. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were determined by radioimmunoassay. Results Of the African American, East African, Hispanic, and American Indian patients, 100% had deficient levels of vitamin D (=20 ng/mL). Of all patients, 93% (140/ 150) had deficient levels of vitamin D (mean, 12.08 ng/mL; 95% confidence interval, 11.18-12.99 ng/mL). Nonimmigrants had vitamin D levels as deficient as immigrants ( P =.48). Levels of vitamin D in men were as deficient as in women ( P =.42). Of all patients, 28% (42/150) had severely deficient vitamin D levels (=8 ng/mL), including 55% of whom were younger than 30 years. Five patients, 4 of whom were aged 35 years or younger, had vitamin D serum levels below the level of detection. The severity of deficiency was disproportionate by age for young women ( P P P =.006). Season was not a significant factor in determining vitamin D serum levels ( P =.06). Conclusion All patients with persistent, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain are at high risk for the consequences of unrecognized and untreated severe hypovitaminosis D. This risk extends to those considered at low risk for vitamin D deficiency: nonelderly, nonhousebound, or nonimmigrant persons of either sex. Nonimmigrant women of childbearing age with such pain appear to be at greatest risk for misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. Because osteomalacia is a known cause of persistent, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain, screening all outpatients with such pain for hypovitaminosis D should be standard practice in clinical care.
Mathematical optimization applications in metabolic networks

Genome-scale metabolic models are increasingly becoming available for a variety of microorganisms. This has spurred the development of a wide array of computational tools, and in particular, mathematical optimization approaches, to assist in fundamental metabolic network analyses and redesign efforts. This review highlights a number of optimization-based frameworks developed towards addressing challenges in the analysis and engineering of metabolic networks. In particular, three major types of studies are covered here including exploring model predictions, correction and improvement of models of metabolism, and redesign of metabolic networks for the targeted overproduction of a desired compound. Overall, the methods reviewed in this paper highlight the diversity of queries, breadth of questions and complexity of redesigns that are amenable to mathematical optimization strategies.
Coordinated planning and control of automated assembly manufacturing

A general, hierarchical method of planning coordinated motions among multiple objects in a dynamic environment is developed. This model consists of a two-phase approach: planning a global path for each object and then locally optimizing along that global path. The applicability of this model to surface-mount manufacturing systems is studied in different scenarios. By changing the priorities of the machines, different results may be obtained. By comparing these results, the best one may then be determined. Simulation results using the two-phase algorithm show an improvement over other planning and control methods.
Intensity correlations of a noise-driven diode laser

We couple noise into the driving current of a laser diode to produce correlated light. We characterize the intensity correlations of the laser with two different techniques: two-detector photon coincidence and analysis of the photocurrent from a single detector. The light exhibits bunching with a magnitude and characteristic time set by the bandwidth and the amplitude of the noise modulating the laser driving current. A simple model based on amplitude modulation of the laser intensity agrees with the measured correlation functions. The bunched light can be used to probe systems that are sensitive to intensity correlations.
Visual Analog Scale pain reporting was standardized

Abstract Background and Objective Whereas pain is frequently measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) that can examine change over short time intervals in the same subject, such ratings are not useful in analyzing differences across subjects. We created a method for normalizing VAS pain reporting to control for the variation between different populations due to the differences in subjective perception or objective evaluation of pain. Methods A list of 226 pains was gathered from a convenience sample of persons on the street and patients waiting at medical and orthopedic clinics. These pains were ranked according to severity by health professionals and 19 pains with the most stable rankings were selected. These 19 pains were then rated by a sample of community-dwelling persons and a method of VAS standardization was developed, based on six selected pains. Results Individual variations in pain ratings were found to be independent of respondent age and gender, but were correlated with experience of the event or behavior and with self-reported health status. A new scoring method that takes into account these correlations is proposed. Conclusion It is possible to standardize VAS pain ratings to compare pain between different populations.
Multiscale Modeling of Flow Induced Thrombogenicity Using Dissipative Particle Dynamics and Coarse Grained Molecular Dynamics

The coagulation cascade of blood may be initiated by flow induced platelet activation, which prompts clot formation in prosthetic cardiovascular devices and arterial disease processes. While platelet activation may be induced by biochemical agonists, shear stresses arising from pathological flow patterns enhance the propensity of platelets to activate and initiate the intrinsic pathway of coagulation, leading to thrombosis. Upon activation platelets undergo complex biochemical and morphological changes: organelles are centralized, membrane glycoproteins undergo conformational changes, and adhesive pseudopods are extended. Activated platelets polymerize fibrinogen into a fibrin network that enmeshes red blood cells. Activated platelets also cross-talk and aggregate to form thrombi. Current numerical simulations to model this complex process mostly treat blood as a continuum and solve the Navier-Stokes equations governing blood flow, coupled with diffusion-convection-reaction equations. It requires various complex constitutive relations or simplifying assumptions, and is limited to μm level scales. However, molecular mechanisms governing platelet shape change upon activation and their effect on rheological properties can be in the nm level scales. To address this challenge, a multiscale approach which departs from continuum approaches, may offer an effective means to bridge the gap between macroscopic flow and cellular scales. Coarse Grained Molecular dynamics (CGMD) and discrete/dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) methods have been employed in recent years to simulate complex processes at the molecular scales, and various viscous fluids at low-to-high Reynolds numbers at mesoscopic scales. Such particle methods possess important properties at the mesoscopic scale: complex fluids with heterogeneous particles can be modeled, allowing the simulation of processes which are otherwise very difficult to solve by continuum approaches. It is becoming a powerful tool for simulating complex blood flow, red blood cells interactions, and platelet-mediated thrombosis involving platelet activation, aggregation, and adhesion.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Methods of Evaluating Agrometeorological Risks and Uncertainties for Estimating Global Agricultural Supply and Demand

The global food and fiber system — from the producer to the final consumer — is subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties. Extensive research has been published in the fields of Economics and Agricultural Economics on every aspect of risk and uncertainty as it relates to agriculture, ranging from theoretical to highlyapplied. Within the realm of applied research, much of the effort has been to provide producers with a framework for managing risk
Atomic scale studies of the mechanisms of internal oxidation

The phenomenon of internal oxidation of solute atoms, in binary metal alloys, is a venerable one that has been studied off and on since its discovery in 1930. The diameter and number density of the precipitated metal oxides - that are the end product of this phenomenon - depend upon the solute element and its concentration in the alloy, temperature of internal oxidation, external oxygen pressure and time. Internal oxidation of alloys has been used to produce dispersion hardened materials in an effort to improve their mechanical properties, and to reduce spallation of alloys. The APFIM results presented herein demonstrate, in a very direct and vivid manner, that the process of internal oxidation does not result directly in the nucleation and growth of metal oxide precipitates that are exactly stoichiometric - in the case presented MgO - at the earliest stages of the formation of a metal oxide precipitate. Rather both hypo - and hyperstoichiometric clusters form as well as the clustering of magnesium atoms. The clusters that the authors observe are clearly precursors to larger precipitates (>1 nm diameter) that are observed via field-ion or high resolution electron microscopy. The results also demonstrate that the entire process is considerablymore » more complicated than had been envisaged in the widely used classical model of internal oxidation.« less
Tramadol for pain relief in children undergoing tonsillectomy. A comparison with morphine

Introduction Pain control for paediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy remains problematic. The combination of intra-operative morphine and rectal diclofenac results in a high incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting as well further analgesic requirements. Tramadol is reported to be an effective analgesic and have a side effect profile similar to morphine. It is not classed as a controlled drug and is available in tablet, suppository and injection form. It is currently not licensed for paediatric use in the UK. Methods We conducted a prospective, double blind, randomised controlled trial in children scheduled for elective tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy at the Royal Aberdeen Children Hospital. Following local ethics committee approval and obtaining a drug exemption certificate from the Medicines Licensing Agency for an unlicensed drug in paediatrics we recruited 60 patients into three groups: morphine (0.1 mg·kg−1), tramadol (1 mg·kg−1) and tramadol (2 mg·kg−1). These drugs were given as a single injection following induction of anaesthesia. In addition, all patients received diclofenac (1 mg·kg−1) rectally. The post-operative analgesic requirements, sedation scores, signs of respiratory depression and nausea and vomiting as well as antiemetic requirements were noted at 4 hourly intervals until discharge. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square, Kruskal–Wallis and one-way anova tests as appropriate. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results There were no statistical significant differences in age, weight, type of operation or induction of anaesthesia, 4 hourly sedation and pain scores and further analgesic requirements. There were no incidences of respiratory depression. Morphine was associated with a significantly higher incidence of vomiting following discharge to the wards (75% vs 40%, P = 0.03) when compared to both tramadol groups. The differences in anti-emetic requirements did not reach statistically significant difference (P = 0.078). Conclusions We conclude that tramadol has similar analgesic properties and side effects when compared with morphine. The pharmaceutical presentation and the availability as a non-controlled substance may make it a useful addition to paediatric anaesthesia if it becomes licensed for paediatric anaesthesia in the UK.
Interleukin 8 and acute lung injury

Acute lung injury is a complex clinical syndrome involving acute inflammation, microvascular damage, and increased pulmonary vascular and epithelial permeability, frequently resulting in acute respiratory failure culminating in often-fatal acute respiratory distress syndrome. Interleukin 8 (IL-8), a potent neutrophil attractant and activator, plays a significant role in acute lung injury via the formation of anti-IL-8 autoantibody:IL-8 complexes and those complexes' interaction with FcγRIIa receptors, leading to the development of acute lung injury by, among other possible mechanisms, effecting neutrophil apoptosis. These complexes may also interact with lung endothelial cells in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Continuing research of the role of neutrophils, IL-8, anti-IL-8 autoantibody:IL-8 complexes, and FcγRIIa receptors may ultimately provide molecular therapies that could lower acute respiratory distress syndrome mortality, as well as reduce or even prevent the development of acute lung injury altogether.
Race, Gender, and Teacher Testing: How Informative a Tool Is Teacher Licensure Testing?:

Virtually all states require teachers to undergo licensure testing before participation in the public school labor market. This article analyzes the information these tests provide about teacher effectiveness. The authors find that licensure tests have different predicative validity for student achievement by teacher race. They also find that student achievement is impacted by the race/ethnicity match between teachers and their students, with Black students significantly benefitting from being matched with a Black teacher. As a consequence of these matching effects, the uniform application of licensure standards is likely to have differential impacts on the achievement of White and minority students.
Perioperative Immunonutrition: Good Idea or More Hype?

It’s back. Just when you thought it was safe to go in the ICU. Yes, as the swallows return to Capistrano, as the wild geese go back to the Arctic in summer, immunonutrition has returned to nutrition support. By “immunonutrition,” I refer to the use of enteral formulas that have been supplemented by some combination of glutamine, arginine, -3 fatty acids, ribonucleic acids, antioxidant vitamins (C, E, -carotene), or micronutrients (zinc, selenium, chromium). And I suppose, to be fair, it never really went away. Still, there has been a recent increase in activity, and one can already detect early marketing efforts. Three recent examples will suffice to illustrate. A recent article in the World Journal of Surgery ,b y Xu et al 1 from Shanghai, studied 60 patients who had gastrointestinal cancer, then preoperatively and postoperatively fed half with an enteral regimen enriched with glutamine, arginine, and -3 fatty acids and half with a standard diet. Postoperatively, immunoglobulin G and CD4/CD8 ratio were higher in the immunonutrition diet. An earlier postoperative study by the same group in 40 patients with gastric carcinoma showed that inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF) were lower after 7 days in the enriched regimen, whereas immunoglobulins, DC4 counts, and IL-2 were higher. 2 Second, a study from Tokyo of perioperative immunonutrition using a formula enriched with arginine, -3 fatty acids, and ribonucleic acid preoperatively showed a normal Th1/Th2 ratio (CD4 T cells producing IL-4 are Th2 cells) in the experimental group, with a pattern suggesting Th2 dominance in the control group. 3 Third and last, a Milan study of patients receiving enteral nutrition supplemented with arginine, -3 fatty acids, and ribonucleic acid showed decreased length of stay and fewer complications in the groups receiving supplemented enteral formulas either preoperatively or postoperatively. 4 Immunonutrition was first introduced 10 –15 years ago. The premise was that using certain nutrients known or thought to enhance the immune system could lower complications in surgical patients and in the critically ill. The usual added components were glutamine, arginine, -3 fatty acids, and ribonucleic acid, in some combination. But now, some 12 years after the first clinical reports were published, we still are uncertain as to its benefit: a lot has been published, but little has been proven. One notable attempt to analyze the question was carried out by a Canadian group, with the result usually referred to as the Canadian guidelines. 5 Using meta-analysis of published studies, this group attempted to determine the effectiveness of such diets. Very briefly, they found little effect of diets supplemented with arginine and other nutrients. They found that fish oils, borage oils, and antioxidants had a beneficial effect on patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome. And they found a positive treatment effect of glutamine in burn and trauma patients. A somewhat more specific study was done by