cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical results of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of sarcoid tumors in equids

Sarcoids are a locally invasive cutaneous fibroblastic neoplasia and are the most common skin tumor of equids. Myriad treatments are described in the literature including surgery, topical blistering agents, cryosurgery, immunotherapy, and intralesional chemotherapy. Recurrence or progression of the disease after treatment is common. Two years ago the authors began clinical trials investigating the feasibility of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of sarcoid tumors. The tumor or surgical margins were treated using topical or intra-lesional delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) as a photosensitizing agent. The ALA was left in situ for a period of time allowing buildup of protoporphyrin IX (the photosensitizer) prior to irradiation with a 635-nm diode laser. We have initial results in 10 patients with 18 lesions and have seen decrease in tumor size or complete remission in 13 of 18 lesions. Recurrence or progression has been noted in 7 lesions. Results of these trials and follow-up information on clinical patients will be presented for review.
Level of deprivation does not affect degree of discounting in pigeons

Two experiments tested the effects of food deprivation on discounting in pigeons. An adjusting-amount procedure was used to estimate the subjective value of food at delays ranging from 1 to 24 s. Experiment 1 compared pigeons’ discounting of delayed food reinforcers at 75 %–80 % and 90 %–95 % of free-feeding weight. Experiment 2 compared discounting under 1- and 23-h food deprivation. In both experiments at both deprivation levels, discounting was well described by the hyperboloid discounting function. No systematic effect of level of deprivation on degree of discounting was observed in either experiment. This finding is consistent with the view that pigeons’ choices are controlled by the relative, rather than the absolute, value of reinforcers.
Sorption of Trichloroethylene in Hydrophobic Micropores of Dealuminated Y Zeolites and Natural Minerals

Sorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in low organic carbon (<0.1%) geosorbents is difficult to predict because the sorption capacity of the mineral matrix is poorly understood. This research demonstrates hydrophobic micropores can be important sorption sites for VOCs. We studied the sorption of water and TCE on three dealuminated Y zeolites ranging from hydrophilic (CBV-300) to hydrophobic (CBV-720 and CBV-780), with the surface cation density decreasing from 2.07 to 0.42 and 0.16 sites/nm2, respectively. Water sorption and dehydration data indicate water affinity of the zeolite micropores decreases with micropore hydrophobicity. TCE sorption on the wet zeolites decreased with increasing surface cation density. At a relative pressure (P/P0) of 0.136, TCE filled only 0.034% of the micropore volume in wet CBV-300, but 16.9% and 18.6% in wet CBV-720 and CBV-780, respectively. TCE desorption data from dry and wet silica sand (Min-U-Sil 30), kaolinite (KGa-1), and smectite (SWy-1) confirmed VOC sorpti...
Pregnancy outcome after risk assessment of occupational exposure to organic solvents: A prospective cohort study

A rational medical, occupational and toxicological approach is instrumental to select objectively among pregnant women exposed to chemicals at the workplace those who should be withdrawn or benefit from improvements of working conditions. Risk assessment is based on a comprehensive review of compounds' hazards and a thorough evaluation of the actual exposure including biomonitoring whenever as possible. Since 1996, the Lyon Poison Center has been conducting a prospective follow-up of pregnant women exposed to chemicals at the workplace. Of these, 206 exposed to organic solvents since conception were selected and matched with 206 exposed to a non-embryotoxic agent. Total withdrawal from the workplace was recommended in 22% of cases, but exposure was not considered to be hazardous to pregnancy in 51%. Overall, no increase in adverse outcomes was found. Maintaining pregnant women at their workplace, particularly most of the laboratory technicians, is reasonably possible after careful toxicological risk assessment.
Diffusion induced recrystallization of NiO

Abstract It is shown that changing the composition of a sample of NiO from that in equilibrium with air at 1200°C to that in equilibrium with oxygen saturated Ni at 800–900°C will recrystallize the surface to a much finer grain size. Annealing back at 1200°C in air will again recrystallize the surface layer. This type of diffusion induced recrystallization has often been observed in metals, but has never before been reported in ceramics. It's occurrence in NiO is interpreted as a demonstration that diffusion induced grain boundary motion is driven directly by the free energy of mixing defects into the matrix instead of indirectly as suggested by others.
Ethanol metabolism in Peromyscus genetically deficient in alcohol dehydrogenase.

Abstract Ethanol metabolism was compared in two strains of the deermouse, Peromyscus maniculatus . Animals of the Adh N / Adh N strain, which lack liver alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity, eliminated ethanol at a signficantly slower rate (P Adh F / Adh F strain, which have normal liver ADH activity. However, a comparison of the blood ethanol elimination rate (BEER) in the two strains indicated that, at high blood ethanol concentrations, non-ADH mediated pathways may account for as much as two-thirds of normal ethanol elimination in this species. Chronic ethanol consumption induced an elevated BEER in Adh F / Adh F mice but not in AdhN / Adh N mice. This strain difference in response to ethanol feeding suggests that increases in BEER are mediated primarily via the ADH pathway. A microsomal ethanol-oxidizing system (MEOS), independent of ADH and catalase, was shown to exist in microsomal preparations from both strains of P . maniculatus. MEOS activity of naive Adh N / Adh N mice was 2.3-fold higher than that of naive Adh F / Adh H animals. Both strains had a 3-fold greater MEOS activity following chronic ethanol consumption. Contrary to similar investigations in ethanol-fed rats, the alteration in MEOS activity was not accompanied by significant changes in cytochrome P-450, NADPH-cytochrome c reductase or phospholipid. Most importantly, the elevated in vitro MEOS activity of ethanol-fed Adh N / Adh N mice had no significant effect upon BEER. These results suggest caution in attaching physiological significance to the simultaneous, ethanol-induced increase of the in vitro MEOS and of BEER in experimental animals with normal liver ADH activities.
Analysis of M/G/1 queues with delayed vacations and exhaustive service discipline

Abstract We consider M/G/1 queues with exhaustive service and delayed vacations, where at the end of every busy period the server stays idle in the system for a period of time called changeover time and then follows a mixed vacation policy from a given vacation policy set if there is no arrival during the changeover time. The successive vacations are assumed to be independent but not necessarily identical. This vacation policy includes many existing vacation policies as special cases. We derive the Laplace transform of the joint distribution of the queue length and the remaining service (or vacation) time at arbitrary time as well as that of the virtual waiting time distribution. It results in the stochastic decomposition property immediately. We also provide an explicit formula for the Laplace transform of the additional delay for our model. It enables us to analyze and unify many new and existing vacation policies easily.
Characteristics of lower esophageal sphincter relaxation induced by pharyngeal stimulation with minute amounts of water

Abstract BACKGROUND & AIMS: Injection of minute amounts of water in the pharynx leads to a long-duration lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation that is an important feature of a transient LES relaxation. The aims of this study were to determine if a pharyngeal stimulus-induced LES relaxation is associated with crural diaphragm inhibition, esophageal common cavity, and acid reflux in normal subjects. METHODS: Esophageal and LES pressure, crural diaphragm electromyographs, and pH were recorded in the fasting and postprandial states in normal subjects. The pharynx was stimulated by injection of water at bolus volumes of 0.05 and 0.1 mL and then in 0.1-mL increments. RESULTS: Pharyngeal stimulation induced a long-duration LES relaxation in the absence of swallow and esophageal peristalsis. In the fasting state, none of the LES relaxations induced by pharyngeal stimulation were associated with inhibition of crural diaphragm, esophageal common cavity, and acid reflux. In the postprandial periods, only 8% of the pharyngeal stimuli resulted in crural diaphragm inhibition and esophageal common cavity. Esophageal reflux was found only at the times of simultaneous LES and crural diaphragm relaxation. CONCLUSIONS: Stimulation of the pharynx has different effects on the LES and crural diaphragm. Relaxation of crural diaphragm along with LES relaxation is essential for the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux in normal subjects. (Gastroenterology 1996 Aug;111(2):378-84)
Ergonomics and safety considerations in the design of robotics workplaces: A review and some priorities for research

This paper reviews research on safety and ergonomics in robot workplaces. In the planning of function allocation between robots and human operators, several criteria must be taken into consideration. These include productivity, job satisfaction, and safety. This planning must begin at the early stage of product design where the choice of manufacturing method must be scrutinized to achieve an optimal allocation. An analysis of accidents shows that most fatalities have occured with the robot approaching unseen from behind or above. This has implications for the design of the workstation and the choice of safety equipment. The most critical aspect is the moving robot arm. Further research is needed to understand the perceptibility of arm movements. Research on sensors that can shut off the equipment in hazardous situations is summarized. Six research ideas are proposed: (1) the establishment of a databank for accident analysis; (2) field studies of design requirements of robotics workplaces; (3) perception of robot arm movement; (4) teach pendant design; (5) function allocation between humans and robots; and (6) development of a transponder safety sensor.
A study of “best” versus “average” buyer-seller relationships

Abstract With intense competition in the marketplace and the condensing of product life cycles, paying attention to business relationships has become imperative for firms wanting to maximize performance. This study was conducted to explore what factors and conditions are associated with the most successful business-to-business relationships. In-depth interviews were conducted with executives at five forest products firms to understand the conditions, factors, and activities that are consistently present in outstanding business-to-business relationships. The results reveal that such relationships tend to involve more joint planning and performance reviews; all forms of communication are utilized more frequently; products exchanged tend to be more customized; and pricing problems happen less frequently.
Protein folding observed by time-resolved synchrotron x-ray scattering. A feasibility study.

A solution to the "protein folding" problem, the successful prediction of tertiary and quaternary protein structure from amino acid or gene sequence, would be a major advance in biology and biotechnology. Knowledge of any intermediate structure between fully unwound and folded would aid folding calculations. The use of high intensity synchrotron x-rays from the SUNY X21 beamline at National Synchrotron Light Source has been investigated as a probe of structural changes during protein folding and unfolding in solution. A temperature jump apparatus was used to study thermally-induced folding and unfolding. Scattering of solutions of myoglobin in the angular range 20 = 1–50 mrad. was measured during temperature jumps between 26 and 76 degrees C. There are clear signs of time/temperature-dependent structural changes, in the small angle region, consistent with those from other equilibrium techniques. Analysis indicates that this experimental technique can be extended to the higher angle region where theoretical calculations indicate more detailed structural information, for example when alpha-helix formation, is present.
Nutritional Deficiencies in Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is characterized by small bowel enteropathy, precipitated in genetically susceptible individuals by the ingestion of "gluten," which is a term used to encompass the storage proteins of wheat, rye, and barley. Although the intestine heals with removal of gluten from the diet, the intolerance is permanent and the damage recurs if gluten is reintroduced. This damage causes a wide variety of consequence including maldigestion and malabsorption, resulting in the characteristic, although not universal, features of malnutrition. This article examines recent advances in the understanding of the spectrum of celiac disease, illustrates the impact of celiac disease on nutrition, and describes approaches to the management of the disease.
The attraction of Lepidoptera to flowering plants also attractive to parasitoids (Diptera, Hymenoptera)

Abstract Flowering plants added to agricultural environments can provide food, shelter and alternative hosts for natural enemies and so increase crop yields. However, these same resources might be exploited by certain pests. Twelve species of plants known to attract parasitic Hymenoptera and Tachinidae and candidates for conservation biological control were examined for their attractiveness to Lepidoptera, a largely herbivorous order. Interception traps (Malaise traps) were erected along the wooded margin of an agricultural field. Under these traps were placed plants with flowers and controls consisting of plants without flowers and/ or no plants. Trapped Lepidoptera were counted, their wing lengths (size) measured and when possible identified to family and species. Five of the 12 plant species in flower attracted greater numbers of Lepidoptera than their control(s), and the attracted moths tended to be relatively large species. Flower depth, but not width, was correlated to attractiveness as was floral a...
On the maximum number of independent edges in cubic graphs

Let the reals be extended to include oo with o~ > r for every real nuraber r. Given an extended real number r, a property P(r) of graphs is super-hereditary if, whenever graph G has property P(r) and H is a subgraph of G, then H has property P(s) with s I> r. Notice that girth is a super-hereditary property if a forest has girth oo. In this paper, we prove that, given a super-hereditary proper~y P of graphs, if g is the smallest order of a graph with property P and having one vertex of degree 2 and all others of degree 3, and if G is a cubic graph with n vertices and property P, then G contains a matching with at least 1⁄2n(3g1)/(3g-~1) edges. In the case that P is the property of having girth r we describe all graphs having exactly the maximum matching size named. Our result has the corollary that every cubic graph with n vertices has a matching containing at least ~ n edges. Let L be a graph with super-hereditary property P in which one vertex has degree two and all others have degree 3 and such that the the order g of L is as s~nall as possible. For example, if P is 'having girth 3', L is /(4 with one edge subdivided and g = 5. If P is 'having girth 4', then L i,; K3.3 with one edge subdivided, and g = 7. The existence of L in the case that P is 'having girth r' ~.s shown by observing that an r-cage with one edge subdivided will serve (see [3, Theorem 8.82], for a proof that r-cages exist for all r>~3). Bollob~is and Eldridge [2], by the same method used in this paper, obtained the greatest lower bound for the size of a maximum matching in a k-connected (or Aedge-connected) graph with a given number of vertices anzl given minimal and maximal degrees. In this paper we find the greatest lower bound for the size of a maximum matching in a cubic graph with n vertices and with sup,~r-hereditary property P(r). In particular:
Values-based Internships: Combining TEFI Values, Career Internships, and Community Engagement

This paper presents a conceptual framework for exploring the potential of values-based internships that are strategically designed to balance learning across all five TEFI values (professionalism, knowledge, mutual respect, ethics, and stewardship). The paper examines service learning concepts to identify ways in which internships may be improved to engage students more fully in learning goals related to stewardship and ethics by allowing students to take part in activities related to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Pilot qualitative data collected from local internship partners are examined to explore both benefits and limitations of the values-based internship concept. The author provides subsequent recommendations and identification of areas for future research.
Short range forest channel modeling in the 5 GHz band

This paper presents a wireless channel characterization for a short-range, temperate, medium density forest environment. This environment and frequency band have not been thoroughly characterized. We conducted measurements at a center frequency of 5.12 GHz with a 50MHz bandwidth signal and obtained impulse response estimates. Measured results for delay spread are presented; mean root-mean square delay spread values range from 64 to 87 ns, for link distances up to approximately 110 m. Maximum delay spreads were approximately 360 ns. The presented models should be useful for wireless system design and optimization in the 5 GHz band forest setting.
Law and Social Change in the New Nations

It is one of the central paradoxes of any legal system that it should appear at once so central to the imposition of decisive pronouncements aimed at the very structure of social relationships yet remain dependent on forces beyond its direct control for the acceptance and implementation of these strictures. This peculiar status of laws and legal institutions gives rise both to exaggerated claims for its impact on social change and equally unrealistic assertions that all legal systems merely follow and support processes whose fundamental operations are carried out in the broader spheres of social and political life. Like other institutions, a legal system performs distinctive tasks in accord with its own internal history and logic. But in its very design and operation it is deeply influenced by the struggles for control and influence that occur among its own personnel, and between them and other sectors of society. Being neither self-executing nor independently defined, statutory propositions and judicial opinions have impacts which are as difficult to trace in detail as they are wide-ranging and interconnected at large. Even in societies with elaborated and sharply delineated legal institutions, the role of the legal system in shaping or reflecting social and political patterns partakes of this confusion of distinctiveness and derivativeness.
Static/Dynamic Correction Approach for Reduced-Order Modeling of Unsteady Aerodynamics

Presented is a newly devised static/dynamic correction approach for eigenvector expansion based reduced-order modeling (ROM). When compared to the fundamental Ritz ROM formulation, along with the static and multiple static correction ROM approaches, the technique is demonstrated to have much better performance in modeling unsteady linearized frequency-domain aerodynamics in regions of the complex frequency plane near the imaginary axis, and up to a prescribed frequency of interest. As with the static and multiple static correction approaches, the method requires a directly computed solution at zero frequency. The method then requires one additional direct solution to be computed at some nonzero frequency, which typically is the maximum frequency of interest. When compared to the multiple static corrections method, the method circumvents the necessity of having to determine each of the multiple static corrections, which require a solution to an alternate set of equations that must be formulated and which can be costly to solve for large systems. We also consider the feasibility of using a proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) to determine approximations for the least damped fluid-dynamic eigenvectors. We demonstrate that in certain situations these approximate eigenvectors can be used in conjunction with the static/dynamic correction ROM approach to achieve an improvement in performance over the recently devised POD/ROM method where the POD shapes alone are used as ROM shape vectors. Finally, we illustrate how the method can be coupled with a structural model to compute the Mach-number flutter speed trend for a large computational-fluid-dynamics model of a three-dimensional transonic wing configuration.
Short-Range Demonstrations of Monocular Passive Ranging Using O 2 (X 3 Σ g - → b 1 Σ g + ) Absorption Spectra

The depth of absorption bands in observed spectra of distant, bright sources can be used to estimate range to the source. Experimental results are presented based on observations of the O2 X(v? = 0) ? b(v? = 0) absorption band centered around 762 nm and the O2 X(v? = 0) ? b(v? = 1) band around 689 nm. Range is estimated by comparing observed values of band-average absorption against predicted curves derived from either historical data or model predictions. Accuracy of better than 0.5% was verified in short-range (up to 3 km), static experiments using a high-resolution (1 cm-1) spectroradiometer. This method was also tested against the exhaust plume of a Falcon 9 rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The rocket was launched from an initial range of 13 km and tracked for 90 s after ignition. Range error was below 2% for the first 30 s and consistent with predicted error throughout the track.
Comments on John Martin Fischer’s Our Stories

I comment on the three main themes in Our Stories: the harm of death, the narrative structure of life, and the value of immortality. I begin with a subsidiary theme, namely, the use of narrative examples in philosophy.
Hypersensitivity of Primordial Germ Cells to Compromised Replication-Associated DNA Repair Involves ATM-p53-p21 Signaling

Genome maintenance in germ cells is critical for fertility and the stable propagation of species. While mechanisms of meiotic DNA repair and chromosome behavior are well-characterized, the same is not true for primordial germ cells (PGCs), which arise and propagate during very early stages of mammalian development. Fanconi anemia (FA), a genomic instability syndrome that includes hypogonadism and testicular failure phenotypes, is caused by mutations in genes encoding a complex of proteins involved in repair of DNA lesions associated with DNA replication. The signaling mechanisms underlying hypogonadism and testicular failure in FA patients or mouse models are unknown. We conducted genetic studies to show that hypogonadism of Fancm mutant mice is a result of reduced proliferation, but not apoptosis, of PGCs, resulting in reduced germ cells in neonates of both sexes. Progressive loss of germ cells in adult males also occurs, overlaid with an elevated level of meiotic DNA damage. Genetic studies indicated that ATM-p53-p21 signaling is partially responsible for the germ cell deficiency.
Genomics: Something to swing about.

The first gibbon genome to be sequenced provides clues about how genomes can be shuffled in short evolutionary time frames, and about how gibbons adapted and diversified in the jungles of southeast Asia. See Article p.195 The many species of gibbons are small, tree-living apes from Southeast Asia, most of them listed as 'endangered' or 'critically endangered' on the IUCN list. In their presentation of the genome of the northern white-cheeked gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys) , Lucia Carbone and colleagues provide intriguing insights into the biology and evolutionary history of a group that straddles the divide between Old World monkeys and the great apes. The authors investigate how a novel gibbon-specific retrotransposon might be the source of gibbons' genome plasticity. Rapid karyotype evolution combined with multiple episodes of climate and environmental change might explain the almost instantaneous divergence of the four gibbon genera. Positive selection on genes involved in forelimb development and connective tissue might have been related to gibbons' unique mode of locomotion in the tropical canopy.
Prospective Teachers' Reflection: Strategies, Qualities, and Perceptions in Learning To Teach Reading.

Abstract This study examined and documented mental strategies used by prospective teachers to guide reflections on course content and teaching experiences. The 30 prospective teachers were enrolled in a literacy methods course and accompanying practicum at three university sites. Double‐entry journals and oral interviews were analyzed using open coding procedures, analytic induction, and cross‐subject pattern analysis. Across sites, prospective teachers relied primarily on directing their attention to personal experiences and values to guide their reflective work and they indicated the value of their own perspective to help them remember information and make sense of course content. Implications for instruction are drawn from an analysis of the power of personal experiences, the developmental nature of reflection, and noted tendencies to adopt new strategies as the semester progressed.
Progress on Comparison Study of the Erosion of Conventionally Machined and Macrolaminated Pressure-Swirl Atomizers

Gas turbine fuel atomization nozzles are subject to internal erosion damage caused by the flow of the liquid fuel and its inevitable contaminants. Nozzles must be sufficiently erosion resistant, or erosion tolerant, to insure acceptable performance throughout their design life. Recently developed macrolamination (ML) technology for construction of pressure-swirl nozzles shows potential performance, cost, and size benefits when compared to conventionally constructed nozzles. The objective of this study is to compare macrolaminated and conventional nozzles under identical accelerated erosive conditions to determine their relative wear characteristics. To date, twelve nozzles have been compared with some being disregarded because of anomalies. It is shown that erosion damage results in increased flow rates. Also, the tendencies shown are for conventional nozzles to erode to narrower spray angles and macrolaminated nozzles to erode to wider spray angles. ML nozzles exhibit some important failure modes that differ from nozzles of conventional design.Copyright © 1997 by ASME
The Supraorbital Craniotomy for Access to the Skull Base and Intraaxial Lesions: A Technique in Evolution

Introduction The supraorbital craniotomy was initially described as a minimally invasive means to target extra-axial lesions in the anterior cranial fossa and sellar/parasellar region. Since its initial description, various modifications have been described. We report our recent experience with this approach (and its modifications) for not only extra-axial but also intra-axial neoplastic pathology. Methods Based on patient pathology and anatomic considerations, one of two approaches was performed: supraorbital craniotomy through an eyebrow incision or a combined orbital osteotomy and supraorbital craniotomy through an eyelid incision. Results This technique was performed on twenty-eight consecutive patients. Intra-axial pathology ranged from anaplastic astrocytoma to metastasis while extra-axial lesions included meningiomas and skull-based metastases. Excellent lesion resection was achieved in the majority of patients. Complications were infection (2 patients) and CSF leak. Discussion The supraorbital craniotomy and its modifications provide an ideal anterior subfrontal approach through which a wide variety of pathology can be approached. This technique has particular considerations in comparison to traditional cranial base approaches that must be taken into account before it is utilized.
Air pressure responses to sudden vocal tract pressure bleeds during production of stop consonants: new evidence of aeromechanical regulation.

Two studies were conducted to evaluate short-latency vocal tract air pressure responses to sudden pressure bleeds during production of voiceless bilabial stop consonants. It was hypothesized that t...
Agronomic Responses of Corn to Planting Date and Plant Density

Corn (Zea mays L.) grain yield is closely related to plant density and is typically maximized in the northern Corn Belt when planting occurs in late April. However, spring rainfall events often result in wet soil conditions that delay planting. From 2008 to 2010, experiments were conducted at two locations in southern Minnesota to determine whether the agronomic responses of corn to plant density differ with planting date. Six plant densities ranging from 38,400 to 107,900 plants ha ―1 were evaluated within three planting dates that occurred on 2-wk intervals beginning in late April to early May. Yield and net return to seed cost were not affected when planting was delayed 2 wk, but were 15 and 18 to 30% lower when planting was delayed 4 wk, respectively. Yield loss due to late planting was associated with a 7% decrease in kernel weight and no change in kernels per square meter. Responses to plant density for stalk diameter, intercepted photosynthetically active radiation (IPAR) and leaf area index (LAI) at silking, lodging, grain yield and components, and net return to seed cost for 25 economic scenarios did not differ with planting date. There was a quadratic-plateau response of grain yield to plant density with yield maximized at ≥81,700 plants ha ―1 . These results from a 102-d relative maturity hybrid over six site-years in southern Minnesota show that increased plant density may not be able to offset the yield and economic losses associated with late planting.
Assessing patient expectations and concerns in a physical medicine and rehabilitation unit: a real-time snapshot.

Introduction To evaluate patient expectations, concerns, and satisfaction during physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) inpatient hospitalization. Patients were also asked to comment on what resources might benefit them during their stay. Design More than 150 PM&R patients were asked to fill out a self-administered survey in a cross-sectional design. Patients receiving care under 5 other specialties (general medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, general surgery, orthopedics, and neurology) also were surveyed to determine whether qualitative differences existed between PM&R and other departments. In all, more than 1100 patients were given surveys to complete. Patients rated how concerned they were with more than 20 elements of their hospitalization, ranging from quality of food to pain management. Questions were divided into 2 sections: retrospectively before hospitalization and during current admission. Setting This study was completed in a large tertiary care PM&R facility with an adjoining medical center in an urban area. Participants Patients were given the option to complete this survey in an anonymous fashion during their hospital stay. All those who did so were included in this analysis. Six different specialties were represented in the final tally, but the emphasis was on the PM&R department. Main Outcome Measurements The survey itself included more than 20 questions regarding the details of patients' hospital stays and how concerned they were with them. These categories included plans after discharge, duration of hospitalization, pain management, follow-up of medical issues, cost, insurance, and familiarity with diagnosis, physician, and medications. Other outcomes included patient input into what interventions they thought would most benefit them as well as a global satisfaction rating. Results Data analysis was performed with SPSS. Tukey tests provided comparison information across specialties. The response rate within PM&R was 68% (n = 128), whereas for all specialties combined it was 54% (n = 606). Multiple factors were found to be significant when examining expectations versus actual admission concerns. Most prominently within PM&R, patients indicated that they were less concerned during their admission than they thought they would be about potential duration of hospitalization ( P P P P P P P P Conclusion Results support the idea that the multidisciplinary approach inherent in PM&R positively alters many patient expectations related to outcomes. This has direct relevance to patient satisfaction and outcomes and warrants further investigation. The authors offer some potential interventions for future improvement in this area.
Addressing Patient Safety in Rapid Response Activations for Nonhospitalized Persons.

BackgroundRapid response teams (RRTs) have been widely accepted as useful adjuncts to the care of inpatients with unanticipated emergencies. One study suggested that leadership of such teams could be assigned to midlevel providers, especially when nonhospitalized person (NHP)–related emergencies occ
Mutagenesis and behavioral screening for altered circadian activity identifies the mouse mutant, Wheels

Abstract The molecular processes underlying the generation of circadian behavior in mammals are virtually unknown. To identify genes that regulate or alter circadian activity rhythms, a mouse mutagenesis program was initiated in conjunction with behavioral screening for alterations in circadian period (τ), a fundamental property of the biological clock. Male mice of the inbred BALB/c strain, treated with the potent mutagen N -ethyl- N -nitrosourea were mated with wild-type hybrids. Wheel-running activity of ∼ 300 male progeny was monitored for 6–10 weeks under constant dark (DD) conditions. The τ DD of a single mouse (#187) was longer than the population mean by more than three standard deviations (24.20 vs. 23.32 ± 0.02 h; mean ± S.E.M.; n = 277). In addition, mouse #187 exhibited other abnormal phenotypes, including hyperactive bi-directional circling/ spinning activity and an abnormal response to light. Heterozygous progeny of the founder mouse, generated from outcrossings with wild-type C57BL/6J mice, displayed lengthened τ DD although ∼ 20% of the animals showed no wheel-running activity despite being quite active. Under light:dark conditions, all animals displaying circling behavior that ran in the activity wheels exhibited robust wheel-running activity at lights-ON and these animals also showed enhanced wheel-running activity in constant light conditions. The genetic dissection of the complex behavior associated with this mutation was facilitated by the previously described genetic mapping of the mutant locus causing circling behavior, designated Wheels (Whl) , to the subcentromeric portion of mouse chromosome 4. In this report, the same locus is shown to be responsible for the abnormal responses to light and presumably for the altered circadian behavior. Characterization of the gene altered in the novel Wh l mutation will contribute to understanding the molecular elements involved in mammalian circadian regulation.
Degradation of Fibronectin Fibrils by Matrilysin and Characterization of the Degradation Products

Matrilysin is a metalloproteinase expressed in a variety of tumors as well as in some types of normal tissue. In addition to regulating normal tissue remodelling, metalloproteinases are believed to play a role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis by degrading components of the extracellular matrix, for example the highly insoluble fibronectin fibrils found in the interstitial stroma. In this study we examined whether matrilysin can degrade fibronectin fibrils produced by human foreskin fibroblasts and characterized the degradation products of soluble fibronectin. Using indirect immunofluorescence microscopy, we demonstrate for the first time degradation of the fibronectin fibrils upon incubation with 15 nM active matrilysin. Removal of matrilysin resulted in regrowth of the fibrils, suggesting that matrilysin was not cytotoxic. Immunoblotting with specific monoclonal antibodies revealed initial degradation of soluble fibronectin within 1 h. Further degradation occurred over a period of 20 h. Degradation of soluble fibronectin resulted in one fragment of 58 kDa containing the gelatin-binding domain, two fragments of 37 and 38 kDa, which were part of the cell attachment domain, and three fragments of 36, 33, and 30 kDa recognized by an antibody raised against the C-terminal heparin-binding domain. In addition to most of these fragments, several intermediates and unique fragments of 31 and 34 kDa could be found in the conditioned medium of human foreskin fibroblasts treated with matrilysin. Isolation of these fragments may allow further studies to determine their influences on cell migration, attachment, and signal transduction, which are expected to be different from the effects of undegraded fibronectin.
Codability criterion for picking proteinlike structures from random three-dimensional configurations.

We show that the dominant eigenvectors of real protein structural contact matrices are highly correlated with their amino acid sequences. These results suggests that an ab initio sequence-independent profile exists for every protein structure and that this profile is highly effective in differentiating the ordering of amino acids in natural protein sequences from random sequences. This profile provides a structural code and is a key for understanding the unique behavior of protein structures. Using a lattice model, we show that there are special codable structures highly separated from random structures in the dominant eigenvector space of their structural contact matrices. As an example, we show our results provide a good explanation to the ``designable principle'' of protein structures.
Transthoracic echocardiography for pulmonary embolism in the ICU: finding the "right" findings.

Background Use of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in documenting cardiac disorders is well accepted. This study reviews institutional experience with TTE in the clinical setting of pulmonary embolism (PE). Study Design Retrospective review of surgical ICU patients who underwent TTE within 72 hours of diagnosis of PE, from January 2005 to March 2007. Collected data included symptoms, clinical suspicion of PE, preexisting conditions, operative procedures, TTE findings, presence of deep venous thrombosis, and treatments used for PE. Preexisting TTEs, when available, were compared with those obtained after acute PE. TTEs subsequent to the first post-PE study were analyzed for change in severity of findings. Results Thirty-one patients (12 men, 19 women, mean age 66 years, APACHE II 18.1) were included. Twenty-two had high, and nine had moderate, clinical suspicion for PE. Radiographic diagnosis of PE was made by computed tomography (25 of 31) and by ventilation-perfusion scans (6 of 31). Twelve of 31 patients had extremity deep venous thrombosis by duplex ultrasonography. Tricuspid regurgitation was the most common TTE finding (28 of 31), followed by pulmonary hypertension (24), dilated right ventricle (23), right heart strain (19), and underfilled, hyperdynamic left ventricle (17). Seventeen patients had previous or "baseline" echocardiograms, and when compared with the post-PE TTE, all patients demonstrated worsening in at least one TTE finding. Conclusions This study identified findings that can be used in prospective evaluation of TTE for suspected PE. The importance of baseline TTE has also been emphasized. Additional prospective evaluation of TTE in diagnosis of suspected PE in the ICU is warranted.
Victory Has Many Friends: U.S. Public Opinion and the Use of Military Force, 1981-2005

Although previous studies have examined U.S. public support for the use of military force in particular historical cases, and have even made limited comparisons among cases, a full comparison of a large number of historical episodes in which the United States contemplated, threatened, or actually used military force has been missing. An analysis of U.S. public support for the use of military force in twenty-two historical episodes from the early 1980s through the Iraq war and occupation (2003-05) underscores the continuing relevance of Bruce Jentleson's principal policy objectives framework: the objective for which military force is used is an important determinant of the base level of public support. The U.S. public supports restraining aggressive adversaries, but it is leery of involvement in civil-war situations. Although the objective of the mission strongly conditions this base level of support, the public is also sensitive to the relative risk of different military actions; to the prospect of civili...
Gifts, Bribes, and Development in Post-Soviet Kazakstan

Beginning in the 1990s, development organizations launched a global anticorruption campaign. Throughout the world, including post-Soviet Kazakstan, widespread corruption is generally viewed as a serious threat to economic development and political stability. This article addresses the practical problem of distinguishing gifts from bribes in a society like Kazakstan, where some gifts function in part as bribes. The search for this nonexistent boundary reveals the limitations of categories such as "gifts," "bribes," and "commodities." In addition, by examining local perceptions of morality and corruption, this article provides insights for developing culturally appropriate development programs to fight corruption.
The Need for Warehouse Information in a Disaster Recovery Communication System

How does a warehouse pertain to the relief efforts before or during disasters? The need to supply goods and services to help individuals that have lost homes, cars, personal belongings, loved ones or even jobs is important. The goods can consist of medical supplies, food, clothes, blankets and other non perishable goods. These goods need to be stored in a safe and accessible environment. By definition a "warehouse is a storehouse for goods and merchandise that can be sold or used by a group or individuals as needed" (Storage Warehouses, 2011). A warehouse can be a permanent or a temporary structure in various strategic locations that stores the goods to be used in support of a disaster. The physical warehouse as well as the warehouse system is an important part of the Disaster Recovery Communication System. The overall concept should allow for the delivery of goods to multiple locations and multiple disasters. A warehouse system needs to keep track of what inventory is stored in each warehouse as well as the quantity. The warehouse system needs to track orders out for relief efforts as well as keep track of vendor orders to stock warehouses. The warehouse system also needs to keep track of the delivery methods used to get the inventory into a warehouse as well as the delivery method of getting the inventory to the people and places in need. The best way is to integrate a warehouse system into a Disaster Management Communication System (DMCS). The combination of a warehouse system and a DMCS system can help save lives in the aftermath of a disaster.
Feeding, conversion efficiencies, and growth of larval mummichogs, Fundulus heteroclitus

Feeding rates, conversion efficiencies and growth of larvae of the mummichog Fundulus heteroclitus, an extremely abundant estuarine fish, were measured at temperatures ranging from 18° to 30°C. The food used was Artemia salina nauplii. At the time of total yolk sac absorption (5 to 7 days after hatching), the feeding rate decreased for a short time, an indication of a shift in metabolism. Higher feeding rates and growth occurred at higher rearing temperatures. The highest conversion efficiency (gross growth efficiency) was 1.1%, at 22°C. Mummichog larvae may be energetically inefficient compared with other fish species, but efficiency might not be critical for this fish, which is an opportunistic omnivore in an energy-rich environment.
Some recent results on extragalactic X-ray sources from the Einstein observatory

Extragalactic studies by the Harvard/Smithsonian group with the Einstein Observatory have emphasized quasars and galaxy clusters. More than 100 quasars have been detected, including 20 serendipitous discoveries. The X-ray to optical luminosity ratio for radio loud quasars is on the average three times that of radio quiet ones. X-ray images of galaxy clusters reveal a variety of morphological types which may correspond to different stages in their evolution. Several examples of bimodal clusters have been discovered. An X-ray plume associated with M86 appears to be gas being stripped. A mass between 1.7 x 10 to the 13th solar masses and 4.0 x 10 to the 13th solar masses has been derived for M87 from X-ray studies.
Genetic Variation in the Base Excision Repair Pathway, Environmental Risk Factors, and Colorectal Adenoma Risk

Cigarette smoking, high alcohol intake, and low dietary folate levels are risk factors for colorectal adenomas. Oxidative damage caused by these three factors can be repaired through the base excision repair pathway (BER). We hypothesized that genetic variation in BER might modify colorectal adenoma risk. In a sigmoidoscopy-based study, we examined associations between 182 haplotype tagging SNPs in 14 BER genes, and colorectal adenoma risk, and examined their potential role as modifiers of the effect cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, and dietary folate levels. Among all individuals, no statistically significant associations between BER SNPs and adenoma risk persisted after correction for multiple comparisons. However, among Asian-Pacific Islanders we observed two SNPs in FEN1 and one in NTHL1, and among African-Americans one SNP in APEX1 that were associated with colorectal adenoma risk. Significant associations were also observed between SNPs in the NEIL2 gene and rectal adenoma risk. Three SNPS modified the effect of smoking (MUTYH interaction p=0.002; OGG1 interaction p=0.013); FEN1 interaction p=0.013)), one SNP in LIG3 modified the effect of alcohol consumption (interaction p=0.024) and two SNPs in LIG3 modified the effect of dietary folate (interaction p=0.001 and p=0.08) on colorectal adenoma risk. These findings support a role for genetic variants in the BER pathway as potential modifiers of colorectal adenoma risk. Our findings strengthen the role of oxidative damage induced by key lifestyle and dietary risk factors in colorectal adenoma formation.
Attention and Neurofeedback Synchrony Training: Clinical Results and Their Significance

ABSTRACT Background. Previous research on information processing by the primate brain prompted further investigation of phase synchronized alpha brain wave activity at five loci in humans. The results of this investigation indicated that a particular form of attention was associated with production of whole brain synchrony. Method. Patients were treated with a dual approach, a systematic program of attention training coupled with the regular practice of multi channel alpha phase synchrony training. One hundred thirty-two clinical patients were treated for a variety of stress related symptom categories by six therapists in different locations. Patients were rated for symptom intensity, frequency and duration. Results. It was found that learning to develop this particular form of attention, coupled with the regular practice of multi-channel alpha phase synchrony were effective in resolving many common stress related disorders. Analysis of 132 cases using this dual approach found that more than 90 percent of...