cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The role of information technology usage in physician practice satisfaction.

Background Despite the growing use of information technology (IT) in medical practices, little is known about the relationship between IT and physician satisfaction. Purpose The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between physician IT adoption (of various applications) and overall practice satisfaction, as well as satisfaction with the level of computerization at the practice. Methods Data from a Florida survey examining physicians' use of IT and satisfaction were analyzed. Odds ratios (ORs), adjusted for physician demographics and practice characteristics, were computed utilizing logistic regressions to study the independent relationship of electronic health record (EHR) usage, PDA usage, use of e-mail with patients, and the use of disease management software with satisfaction. In addition, we examined the relationship between satisfaction with IT and overall satisfaction with the current medical practice. Results In multivariate analysis, EHR users were 5 times more likely to be satisfied with the level of computerization in their practice (OR = 4.93, 95% CI = 3.68-6.61) and 1.8 times more likely to be satisfied with their overall medical practice (OR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.35-2.32). PDA use was also associated with an increase in satisfaction with the level of computerization (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.02-1.47) and with the overall medical practice (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.07-1.57). E-mail use with patients was negatively related to satisfaction with the level of computerization in the practice (OR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.54-0.90). Last, physicians who were satisfied with IT were 4 times more likely to be satisfied with the current state of their medical practice (OR = 3.97, 95% CI = 3.29-4.81). Implications Physician users of IT applications, especially EHRs, are generally satisfied with these technologies. Potential adopters and/or policy makers interested in influencing IT adoption should consider the positive impact that computer automation can have on medical practice.
Botanical iron minerals: correlation between nanocrystal structure and modes of biological self-assembly

Plants, like animals, use and store iron in their cells. Yet, the composition and structure of the plant-iron biominerals, constituting the inorganic cores of phytoferritin, have remained unknown. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and diffraction studies of subcellular phytoferritin, extracted from disrupted plant cells, indicate that phytoferritin occurs as crystalline magnetite (Fe 3 O 4 ) ϵ-Fe 2 O 3 , and hematite (α-Fe 2 O 3 ), with typical sizes of single crystallites in the 1 — 50 nm range and agglomerate grain sizes up to 4 μm. The three-dimensional agglomerates are built with different biomineral nanocrystals in three distinct modes of biological self-assembly: 1) ordered magnetite; 2) semi-ordered mixture of magnetite and ϵFe 2 O 3 ; and 3) random hematite. These self-assemblies correspond to prior TEM reports of crystalline, paracrystalline and amorphous phytoferritin arrangements in sectioned cell samples. A fourth plant-iron biomineral, tentatively assigned as calcium ferrate hexahydrate, has a morphology and diffraction patterns distinct from the phytoferritin aggregates. We do not attribute the plant iron observed in this study to be the results of atmospheric pollution.
The Simplex and Policy-Iteration Methods Are Strongly Polynomial for the Markov Decision Problem with a Fixed Discount Rate

We prove that the classic policy-iteration method [Howard, R. A. 1960. Dynamic Programming and Markov Processes. MIT, Cambridge] and the original simplex method with the most-negative-reduced-cost pivoting rule of Dantzig are strongly polynomial-time algorithms for solving the Markov decision problem (MDP) with a fixed discount rate. Furthermore, the computational complexity of the policy-iteration and simplex methods is superior to that of the only known strongly polynomial-time interior-point algorithm [Ye, Y. 2005. A new complexity result on solving the Markov decision problem. Math. Oper. Res.30(3) 733--749] for solving this problem. The result is surprising because the simplex method with the same pivoting rule was shown to be exponential for solving a general linear programming problem [Klee, V., G. J. Minty. 1972. How good is the simplex method? Technical report. O. Shisha, ed. Inequalities III. Academic Press, New York], the simplex method with the smallest index pivoting rule was shown to be exponential for solving an MDP regardless of discount rates [Melekopoglou, M., A. Condon. 1994. On the complexity of the policy improvement algorithm for Markov decision processes. INFORMS J. Comput.6(2) 188--192], and the policy-iteration method was recently shown to be exponential for solving undiscounted MDPs under the average cost criterion. We also extend the result to solving MDPs with transient substochastic transition matrices whose spectral radii are uniformly below one.
Response to Comment on "Carbon-Negative Biofuels from Low-Input High-Diversity Grassland Biomass"

We discovered that biofuels from low-input high-diversity mixtures of native perennial prairie plants grown on degraded soil can provide similar bioenergy gains and greater greenhouse gas benefits than current corn ethanol produced from crops grown in monoculture on fertile soil with high inputs. Russelle et al .'s technical concerns are refuted by a substantial body of research on prairie ecosystems and managed perennial grasslands.
Characterization of genes which are transiently expressed during the preaggregative phase of development of Dictyostelium discoideum

We have identified and characterized three genes, the I genes (I for induced), which are induced during the preaggregative phase of the developmental program of Dictyostelium discoideum. None of these genes are expressed in cells growing vegetatively on bacteria or in axenic broth, and their induction during early development is due to transcriptional activation. Developmental expression of I6, I8, and I11 occurs even in the absence of protein synthesis. Their induction is very rapid and occurs essentially at the onset of development. The expression is transient, peaking between 2 and 4 hr followed by a rapid loss of expression. These characteristics suggest that the induction of I6, I8, and I11 is a primary result of the initiation of development, and thus they represent the first such genes isolated. Although their expression behavior shares these characteristics, examination of their expression under various conditions of development and in a variety of aggregation-deficient mutant strains reveals that the details of the regulation and developmental control of these three genes are distinct.
Comprehensive evaluation of indoor tanning regulations: a 50-state analysis, 2012.

Teenage use of indoor tanning has reached epidemic proportions. There is no federal ban on teen use; rather, it is left to each state to determine policy. We conducted a state-by-state analysis using data from each state’s statutes and regulations and supplementary information from the National Conference of State Legislatures. First, we refined an earlier 35-item instrument to now include 56 items that extensively measures age bans, parental involvement, warnings/information, enforcement, and operating requirements. To grade each tanning law, we developed a uniform scoring system with a goal of providing performance data for future comparisons. As of August 2012, 13 states had no tanning facility statute or regulation for minors. In states with some regulations, teen bans are lax—nearly uniformly, most young children under the age of 14 can legally tan with or without suboptimal parental consent or accompaniment laws. Strong Food and Drug Administration involvement can simplify and unify the inconsistencies that exist among states’ indoor tanning laws. Until consistent regulations are promulgated and enforced, such an instrument can provide a benchmark for state investigations into the deficiencies and progress of their laws, as well as facilitate direct comparison between states for research and educational purposes.
Chemistry and mineralogy of the silicates and metal of the Kodaikanal meteorite.

Chemical and mineralogical study of Kodaikanal meteorite silicate and metal phases, using optical, X ray and electron microprobe techniques
Shear bond strength of one etch-and-rinse and five self-etching dental adhesives when used by six operators.

Objective. To test the hypothesis that some single-bottle self-etching adhesives bond as well to enamel and dentin as a typical two-bottle etch-and-rinse adhesive. Material and methods. Six operators used one two-bottle etch-and-rinse dentin adhesive (Scotchbond MP) and five all-in-one self-etching adhesives (iBond Gluma Inside, Clearfil S3 Bond, iBond Experimental, Xeno IV, and G-BOND). Each operator carried out six bondings to enamel and six bondings to dentin with each adhesive. After 24 h of storage in water at 37°C, bond strength was determined in shear. Results. The pooled results of all the adhesives revealed no significant difference (p>0.05) in bond strength between dentin and enamel. However, there were significant differences (p<0.0001) between the different adhesives. The etch-and-rinse adhesive did better than the self-etching adhesives when substrate was not an issue (pooled enamel and dentin results). On comparing the performance of the different adhesives, it became clear that there were s...
Conformational adaptation in drug-target interactions and residence time.

Although drug–target interactions are commonly illustrated in terms of structurally static binding and dissociation events, such descriptions are inadequate to explain the impact of conformational dynamics on these processes. For high-affinity interactions, both the association and dissociation of drug molecules to and from their targets are often controlled by conformational changes of the target. Conformational adaptation can greatly influence the residence time of a drug on its target (i.e., the lifetime of the binary drug–target complex); long residence time can lead to sustained pharmacology and may also mitigate off-target toxicity. In this perspective, the kinetics of drug–target association and dissociation reactions are explored, with particular emphasis on the impact of conformational adaptation on drug–target residence time.
Some problems related to the performance of an evaporator as a vapor delivery system

Abstract The complex interaction among the thermodynamic and transport characteristics of an evaporator used as a vapor delivery system is explored in a steady-state model. An example is presented which show how one may calculate the operating temperature required to yield a specified delivery rate, as a function of vapor pressure of the liquid, and the conductance of the flow path downstream of the evaporator. Under some conditions, liquid droplets may be entrained with the vapor flow. A model is presented for the distance downstream of the evaporator required for evaporation of these droplets.
A taxonomy of complexity classes of functions

This paper comprises a systematic comparison of several complexity classes of functions that are computed nondeterministically in polynomial time or with an oracle in NP. There are three components to this work:*A taxonomy is presented that demonstrates all known inclusion relations of these classes. For (nearly) each inclusion that is not shown to hold, evidence is presented to indicate that the inclusion is false. As an example, consider FewPF, the class of multivalued functions that are nondeterministically computable in polynomial time such that for each x there is a polyomial bound on the number of distinct output values of f(x). We show that FewPF @?"c PF^N^P"t"t. However, we show PF^N^P"t"t @? FewPF if and only if NP = co-NP, and thus PF^N^P"t"t @? FewPF is likely to be false. *Whereas it is known that P^N^P(O(log n)) = P^N^P"t"t @? P^N^P, we show that PF^N^P(O(log n)) = PF^N^P"t"t implies P = FewP and R = NP. Also, we show that PF^N^P"t"t = PF^N^P if and only if P^N^P"t"t = P^N^P. *We show that if every nondeterministic polynomial-time multivalued function has a single-valued nondeterministic refinement (equivalently, if every honest function that is computable in polynomial-time can be inverted by a single-valued nondeterministic function), then there exists a disjoint pair of NP-complete sets such that every separator is NP-hard. The latter is a previously studied open problem that is closely related to investigations on promise problems. This result motivates a study of reductions between partial multivalued functions.
sn‐1,2‐Diacylglycerols and phorbol diesters: Uptake, metabolism, and subsequent assimilation of the diacylglycerol metabolites into complex lipids of cultured cells

The cell-permeable diacylglycerol mediators have been shown to mimic partially the effects of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) on cultured cells. In order to evaluate the metabolic stability of the lipid mediators, several radiolabeled diacylglycerols were synthesized and their uptake and intracellular fate in cultured HL-60 (human promyelocytic leukemia) cells was compared with TPA. In addition to whole cell assessment, the stability of diacyl lipids and TPA was evaluated in a buffer/water system and in the presence of serum and subcellular fractions. The compounds studied include 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycerol (DiOG), l-oleoyl-2-ace-tyl-sn-glycerol (OaG), 1-palmitoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (PaG), the ether-linked analog l-palmityl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (ePaG), and TPA. TPA was comparatively stable to lipase hydrolysis in all systems examined. First, the data show that within 5 min at pH 7.9, nearly 50% of the PaG (originally > 92% 1,2-isomer) had isomerized, and rapid formation of the 1,3-isomer also occurred with OaG and ePaG. The metabolism of OaG and PaG by serum hydrolases, using a reaction medium containing 10% serum, was chiefly by acetate hydrolysis; however, fatty acid was also liberated. After a 60-min incubation 68% of the [14C]OaG was converted, by serum enzymes, to monooleoylglycerol plus oleic acid. Heat-inactivation of serum reduced the enzymatic formation of fatty acid by 60–70%. ePaG was also metabolized by serum enzymes, but the ether-linked alkylglycerol product was stable. The results of cell-free studies (postmitochondrial supernatant) showed that cellular enzymes were present that could, like serum, convert the diacylglycerols to monoacylglycerols and free fatty acids. Studies using cultured cells showed that radiolabeled OaG, PaG, and ePaG were rapidly taken up by the cells and metabolized. Labeled metabolic products from the diacylglycerols appeared, in a time-dependent manner, in cellular phospholipids and triacylglycerols. The results from experiments employing l-acyl-2-acetyl-sn-[3H]glycerol and [3 H]acyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol indicate that the intracellular mode of mediator metabolism is via complete hydrolysis with subsequent incorporation of 3H-acyl groups into complex lipids. Data are also presented which show that a substantial amount of cellular lipid acyl group modification occurs and large amounts of glycerol are produced when cells are cultured with OaG. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the diacylglycerol mediators, when compared with TPA, are not stable and are metabolized by both serum and cellular enzymes. In view of this some of the cellular affects of OaG exposure could be directed by mediator metabolites or be the result of membrane modification.
CHARACTERIZATION OF A MESANGIAL CELL PHENOTYPE ASSOCIATED WITH EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX (ECM) ACCUMULATION. • 2197

Progressive glomerular disease (glomerulosclerosis) is associated with altered turnover of ECM proteins, leading to accumulation of ECM components and collapse of functional structures. Although a variety of mediators have been identified as stimulating synthesis or inhibiting degradation of ECM, the cellular events involved in this process remain unknown. Previously, we described a cell model consistent with matrix accumulation, in which fetal glomerular mesangial cells subjected to an extended series of passages (P) in culture produce more mRNA for certain collagens and for laminin, but express less ECM proteases, after P12. At P14, TGFβ expression increases. To better understand the cellular events involved in matrix accumulation, we sought to determine whether the changes we have observed in mesangial ECM turnover are associated with assumption of a specific cellular phenotype. Human fetal mesangial cells were evaluated from P9 through P17 for matrix accumulation, cytokine production, cytoskeletal arrangement and protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Immunoblot analysis indicated that, consistent with our previous evaluation of mRNA, cells from P13 and later accumulate laminin and collagen IV, but not collagen I, in the cell layer. At all passages, the cells continue to express angiotensin II receptors. They secrete no TNFα at any P; low levels of secreted IL-1β are detectable but are unchanged from P9 through P17. In contrast, by indirect immunofluorescence, F-actin decreases with serial passage, whereas α-smooth muscle actin shows increasingly intense staining and appears to be organized into a more fibrillar pattern. Vinculin staining at the edge of the cell membrane is lost with increasing passage number. Finally, between P11 and P13, an increase occurs in tyrosine phosphorylation of four proteins with Mr≈ 40, 45, 80 and 140 kDa. Taken together, these results confirm that ECM protein accumulation occurs in serially-passaged glomerular mesangial cells and indicate that this occurrence is associated with a switch in cell phenotype defined by specific changes in the cytoskeleton and in cell protein phosphorylation.
1027-42 Usefulness of T wave ″Humps″in the Diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome

Family members of long QT syndrome (LQTS) prebands, who present with QTc ≥0.47 sec1/2, are diagnosed as LQTS affected. It remains unclear, however, how to evaluate family members with borderline QTc value (0.42–0.46 see1/2). Recent ECG and genetic linkage correlation studies suggest that T wave ″humps″ (defined as bulges or protuberances just beyond the apex on the downslope of the T wave) in left precordial or limb leads may represent an ECG marker of the LQTS genotype. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of T wave humps (in at least 1 limb or 2 left precordial leads) in 427 family members with borderline QTc in their rust ECG. The occurrence of cardiac events (syncope, cardiac arrest) or QTc≥0.47 sec1/2 during a mean 46 ± 28 mo. follow-up was used as a basis to diagnose family member as LQTS-affected. The presence of T wave humps, recorded in 45 (11%) family members, was significantly associated with younger age (for ≤15 vs g 15 years old, odds ratio [OR] = 6.0; p l 0.001), longer QTc (0.45–0.46 vs 0.42–0.44, OR = 3.8; p l 0.001) and higher heart rate (g80 vs ≤80 bpm, OR = 2.8; p l 0.02). The diagnosis of LOTS was attained in 36% of family members with and in 14% without T wave humps (p l 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression revealed an independent contribution of T wave humps to the LQTS diagnosis: ECG Variable OR 95%CI pValue T wave humps (yes vs no) 3.1 (1.5;6.6) 0.003 QTc(g0.44–0.46 vs≤0.44) 5.6 (3.2;9.9) l0.001 Bradycardia (age-adjusted) 3.6 (1.8;7.3)≤ l0.001 Conclusions In LQTS family members with borderline QTc: (1) T wave humps are more likely to occur in individuals at young age, with longer QTc and at higher heart rates. (2) The diagnosis of LQTS is enhanced by identification of T wave humps for the entry ECG.
Human ferrochelatase: crystallization, characterization of the [2Fe-2S] cluster and determination that the enzyme is a homodimer

Ferrochelatase (protoheme ferrolyase, EC 4.99.1.1) catalyzes the terminal step in the heme biosynthetic pathway, the insertion of ferrous iron into protoporphyrin IX to form protoheme IX. Previously we have demonstrated that the mammalian enzyme is associated with the inner surface of the inner mitochondrial membrane and contains a nitric oxide sensitive [2Fe-2S] cluster that is coordinated by four Cys residues whose spacing in the primary sequence is unique to animal ferrochelatase. We report here the characterization and crystallization of recombinant human ferrochelatase with an intact [2Fe-2S] cluster. Gel filtration chromatography and dynamic light scattering measurements revealed that the purified recombinant human ferrochelatase in detergent solution is a homodimer. EPR redox titrations of the enzyme yield a midpoint potential of -453+/-10 mV for the [2Fe-2S] cluster. The form of the protein that was crystallized has a single Arg to Leu substitution. This mutation has no detectable effect on enzyme activity but is critical for crystallization. The crystals belong to the space group P2(1)2(1)2(1) and have unit cell constants of a=93.5 A, b=87.7 A, and c=110.2 A. There are two molecules in the asymmetric unit and the crystals diffract to better than 2.0 A resolution. The Fe to Fe distance of the [2Fe-2S] cluster is calculated to be 2.7 A based upon the Bijvoet difference Patterson map.
Understanding workflow in telehealth video visits: Observations from the IDEATel project

Home telemedicine is an emerging healthcare paradigm that has the potential to transform the treatment of chronic illness. The purpose of this paper is to: (1) develop a theoretical and methodological framework for studying workflow in telemediated clinician-patient encounters drawing on a distributed cognition approach and (2) employ the framework in an in-depth analysis of workflow in the IDEATel project, a telemedicine program for older adults with diabetes. The methods employed in this research included (a) videotaped observations of 27 nurse-patient encounters and (b) semi-structured interviews with participants. The analyses were used to provide a descriptive analysis of video visits, understand the mediating role of different technologies and to characterize the ways in which artifacts and representations are used to understand the state of the patient. The study revealed barriers to productive use of telehealth technology as well as adaptations that circumvented such limitations. This research has design implications for: (a) improving the coordination of communication and (b) developing tools that better integrate and display information. Although home telemedicine programs will differ in important respects, there are invariant properties across such systems. Explicating these properties can serve as a needs requirement analysis to develop more effective systems and implementation plans.
Cultivated potato chloroplast DNA differs from the wild type by one deletion- Evidence and implications*

The chloroplast DNA (ctDNA) of Solanum tuberosum ssp. tuberosum (T type) and S. chacoense (W type) yield five different restriction fragment patterns with five different restriction endonucleases. DNA-DNA hybridization tests revealed that these differences were all caused by one physical deletion (about 400 bp in size) in the ctDNA of ssp. tuberosum. This suggests that T type ctDNA of the common potato and of Chilean tuberosum originated from W type ctDNA. The deleted region of the T type ctDNA is probably not concerned with gene-cytoplasmic male sterility.
Effect of the promoter structure on the nutL transcription antitermination function.

Abstract Several boxA-less 74-bp nutL antiterminator fragments do not function as antiterminators of plac-promoted transcription, but are active with the pp and p′R promoters at 30 °C. At elevated temperatures (42°C), these defective 74-bp nutL modules retain 50% of their activity when controlled by the p′R promoter; with the pp promoter the antitermination activity is 5–10 times less efficient. Similarly, deletions of 1–3 bp in the spacer region between the boxA and boxB subunits of nutL (which abolish antitermination promoted by plac), allow rather efficient but thermosensitive antitermination when controlled by the pp or p′R promoter. These results point to possible conditional interactions between the promoter and antiterminator elements and functions. Also noted were unexpectedly slow mobilities of the p′R-nutL-bearing fragments, suggesting some unusual secondary structures.
Synthesis and biochemistry of fluorescent aromatase inhibitors

Abstract Effective aromatase inhibitors have been developed that contain aryl functionalities at the 7α-position of the steroid nucleus. The exact interactions of 7α-substituted androstenediones with the active site of aromatase is unknown. Fluorescent derivatives may provide a useful spectroscopic method for examining the binding of these inhibitors to the microsomal complex and purified aromatase protein. Dinitrophenyl, dansyl, and naphthyl derivatives of 7α-(4'-amino)phenylthio-4-androstene-3,17-dione and androstenedione were synthesized as potential fluorescent agents. An in vitro assay with human placental microsomes was used to evaluate aromatase inhibitory properties. These fluorescent compounds were effective competitive inhibitors and have apparent k i values ranging from 24.1 to 86.7 n m .
Interactions between humans and their landscapes: A focus on the Channel Islands, California

Understanding Human Drivers of Ecological and Evolutionary Patternson the California Islands; Santa Barbara, California, 6–7 March 2012
Use of ipilimumab in the treatment of melanoma

Ipilimumab is a monoclonal antibody directed against cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 that has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. Phase III trials have demonstrated an overall survival benefit with its use when compared with standard treatments and other investigational therapies. However, the drug poses a notable challenge, given its propensity for toxicity, and requires close surveillance when administered in clinical practice. This review discusses the mechanism of action for ipilimumab, its preclinical data, and the clinical trials that led to its approval by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011.
Effect of ultraviolet radiation on iron-binding capacity of plasma.

Summary1. Ultraviolet irradiation of ACD plasma and of plasma fraction IV-7 solutions inactivates the siderophilin component as measured by the loss of its specific iron-binding capacity. 2. The initial inactivation rates; whose magnitude was correlated with the absorption coefficients of the irradiated siderophilin solutions, followed essentially first order kinetics. 3. The UV inactivation rates of iron-free and iron-saturated siderophilin were found to be the same.
A comparison photometer to measure light scattering of aerosols and gases, using the latter as light-scattering standards

Abstract This article describes the design and operation of an extremely sensitive instrument for automatic measurement of light scattered from aerosols and gas molecules. The lower limit of measurement with aerosols is determined by the scattering from the air molecules in which the particles are dispersed. The scattered light and a suitably attenuated portion of the direct light fall successively upon a photomultiplier tube, the anode current of which passes through a high resistor to give an IR drop which is measured in a comparison voltmeter. The high-voltage supply of the photomultiplier is adjusted to give a constant IR drop with the attenuated direct light on the photomultiplier, so as to compensate for changes in the photomultiplier sensitivity and largely offset changes in the lamp brightness. If the scattering due to the air is maintained constant, the lower limit of measurement can be reduced to the background noise, which is about 1.5% of the air scattering. This corresponds to the light scattered by a sample containing about 3 × 10 −11 g./l. of a dioctyl phthalate aerosol of 0.3μ diameter. Since the instrument is sensitive to the molecular scattering due to gases, they may provide a convenient scattering standard for aerosol measurements, which can then be expressed as the ratio of the light scattering of the aerosol to that of the standard gas. Since gases vary widely in their light-scattering ability, such measurements also would find application in gas analysis.
An elementary proof of Ramanujan’s circular summation formula and its generalizations

In this paper, we give a completely elementary proof of Ramanujan’s circular summation formula of theta functions and its generalizations given by S.H. Chan and Z.-G. Liu, who used the theory of elliptic functions. In contrast to all other proofs, our proofs are elementary. An application of this summation formula is given.
Valvular heart disease: a perspective on the asymptomatic patient with severe valvular aortic stenosis

Early in 2006, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) assigned the 2006 Denolin lecturer to provide a broad perspective on the asymptomatic patient with severe calcific valvular aortic stenosis (AS) in the older patient. Subsequently, in late 2006, American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines and in 2007 ESC Guidelines have given the Class I recommendation to ‘primary’ aortic valve replacement (AVR) for asymptomatic patients with AS only to those with left ventricular dysfunction at rest and to those who only become symptomatic on exercise testing. Indications for AVR in classes IIa and IIb were provided. However, almost all of the recommendations in classes I and II were based on level of evidence C. ‘Primary’ AVR is that which is recommended for severe AS as opposed to AVR secondary to surgery for other cardiovascular disease.
INFRARED SPECTROSCOPIC DETERMINATION OF DEGREE OF UNSATURATION OF FATS AND OILS

SUMMARY– Infrared spectra of various fats and oils were determined. Ratios of absorbance at 3.3μ (olefinic C—H stretching band) to absorbance of other characteristic triglyceride absorption bands were calculated. Relationships between these ratios and unsaturation, as estimated by iodine value, were determined. Analyses of 25 fats and oils showed that the ratio of absorbance at 3.3μ to absorbance at 3.5μ (aliphatic C—H stretching band) and iodine value were linearly related and exhibited a correlation coefficient of 0.98. Estimation of degree of unsaturation of 19 additional fats and oils revealed an average deviation of ± 0.97 iodine value units or ± 1.12% between measured values and values calculated from infrared absorption patterns.
Pre-Exposure to Flavor and Conditioned Taste Aversion: Amphetamine and Lithium Reinforcers

The experiment compared the influence of pre-exposure to a .1% saccharin CS on the conditioned taste aversion induced by lithium chloride (.15 M) and by d-amphetamine (2.0 mg/kg) in 44 female Long-Evans hooded rats. Nonpre-exposed rats displayed substantial lithium- and amphetamine-induced taste aversions while pre-exposed rats (6 days) displayed significant attenuation of taste aversion induced by lithium or amphetamine. Although the aversions induced by these reinforcers are anatomically and pharmacologically independent, manipulations of conditioning variables were not sufficient to dissociate these reinforcers.
Transposons Reanimated in Mice

Transposons have proved valuable in the genetic modification of many organisms but not mammals. New work reported by Ding et al. (2005) in this issue of Cell and by Collier et al. (2005) and Dupuy et al. (2005) in a recent issue of Nature now reveals that insertional mutagenesis in mammalian cells is possible thanks to modified derivatives of the piggyBac and Sleeping Beauty DNA transposons. However, the slow rate of proliferation of DNA transposons suggests that derivatives of the L1 retrotransposon might be more powerful for mutagenesis of germline cells. In either case, the future of transposon-driven genetic analyses of mice and other mammals looks promising.
Profiling Gene Expression in Germinating Brassica Roots

Based on previously developed solid-phase gene extraction (SPGE) we examined the mRNA profile in primary roots of Brassica rapa seedlings for highly expressed genes like ACT7 (actin7), TUB (tubulin1), UBQ (ubiquitin), and low expressed GLK (glucokinase) during the first day post-germination. The assessment was based on the mRNA load of the SPGE probe of about 2.1 ng. The number of copies of the investigated genes changed spatially along the length of primary roots. The expression level of all genes differed significantly at each sample position. Among the examined genes ACT7 expression was most even along the root. UBQ was highest at the tip and root–shoot junction (RS). TUB and GLK showed a basipetal gradient. The temporal expression of UBQ was highest in the MZ 9 h after primary root emergence and higher than at any other sample position. Expressions of GLK in EZ and RS increased gradually over time. SPGE extraction is the result of oligo-dT and oligo-dA hybridization and the results illustrate that SPGE can be used for gene expression profiling at high spatial and temporal resolution. SPGE needles can be used within two weeks when stored at 4 °C. Our data indicate that gene expression studies that are based on the entire root miss important differences in gene expression that SPGE is able to resolve for example growth adjustments during gravitropism.
Self-administration of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) precursors gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) in baboons

Rationale Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) are gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) pro-drugs and drugs of abuse.
Modeling pO2 Distributions in the Bone Marrow Hematopoietic Compartment. I. Krogh's Model

Human bone marrow (BM) is a tissue of complex architectural organization, which includes granulopoietic loci, erythroblastic islets, and lymphocytic nodules. Oxygen tension (pO(2)) is an important determinant of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation. Thus, understanding the impact of the BM architectural organization on pO(2) levels in extravascular hematopoietic tissue is an important biophysical problem. However, currently it is impossible to measure pO(2) levels and their spatial variations in the BM. Homogeneous Kroghian models were used to estimate pO(2) distribution in the BM hematopoietic compartment (BMHC) and to conservatively simulate pO(2)-limited cellular architectures. Based on biophysical data of hematopoietic cells and characteristics of BM physiology, we constructed a tissue cylinder solely occupied by granulocytic progenitors (the most metabolically active stage of the most abundant cell type) to provide a physiologically relevant limiting case. Although the number of possible cellular architectures is large, all simulated pO(2) profiles fall between two extreme cases: those of homogeneous tissues with adipocytes and granulocytic progenitors, respectively. This was illustrated by results obtained from a parametric criterion derived for pO(2) depletion in the extravascular tissue. Modeling results suggest that stem and progenitor cells experience a low pO(2) environment in the BMHC.
Torsional Vibration and Fatigue of Turbine-Generator shafts

Transmission system events and operations which have the potential for removing significant fatigue life fram turbine-generator shafts are described. The factors which limit the fatigue capability of turbine-generator shaft systems are presented, along with a discussion of analytical models and their limitations for estimating the shaft fatigue duty following a defined electrical disturbance. The basis for a screening guide value for planned switching operations presented to the IEEE Working Group studying the effects of high speed switching is also discussed.
Synthesis of Poly(β-amino ester)s with Thiol-Reactive Side Chains for DNA Delivery

The safe and efficient delivery of DNA remains the major barrier to the clinical application of non-viral gene therapy. Here, we present novel, biodegradable polymers for gene delivery that are capable of simple graft modification and demonstrate the ability to respond to intracellular conditions. We synthesized poly(β-amino ester)s using a new amine monomer, 2-(pyridyldithio)-ethylamine (PDA). These cationic, degradable polymers contain pyridyldithio functionalities in the side chains that react with high specificity toward thiol ligands. This reactivity is demonstrated using both mercaptoethylamine (MEA) and the thiol peptide RGDC, a ligand that binds with high affinity to certain integrin receptors. These two polymer derivatives displayed strong DNA binding as determined using electrophoresis and dye exclusion assays. In addition, the MEA-based polymer and plasmid DNA were shown to self-assemble into cationic complexes with effective diameters as low as 100 nm. Furthermore, this DNA binding ability was...
The Tao of organization behavior

Well-known concepts in Organization Behavior are viewed in this paper through a Taoist lens, in particular through the perspective enshrined in the famous yin–yang symbol. Since Tao purports to be a fundamental Law of Nature, it should be possible to find Taoist principles operating within, or at least behind, concepts and theories presented in the field of Organization Behavior as having some degree of truth value. Concepts from personality theory, learning, motivation, leadership, and organization culture are found indeed to accord with the Tao. The review reveals aspects of OB concepts not usually discussed, and suggests a fresh approach for theory evaluation and development. A general principle of yin–yang balance as an essential dynamic for performance and harmony in a wide variety of contexts is suggested. Implications for further research are indicated.
Analysis of a large of a Large-Screen RGB System

General Electric has developed and plans to introduce commercially in 1972 a large screen television receiver that features an RGB plug-in module with all input signals AC coupled. The RGB module utilizes a unique DC restoration technique and video amplifier design in conjunction with a passive matrixing network. The RBG video amplifiers will provide 150 volts of video drive, however the stress ratio on the components is such that the module has an estimated *MTBF of 56000 hours, (based on component failure rates published in MIL HDBK 217 A).
1461 INDUCED FETAL HYPERINSULINEMIA AND MACROSOMIA

Human gestational diabetic pregnancies are associated with fetal macrosomia & delayed surfactant production, especially phosphatidylglycerol (PG). Excess serum myoinositol is associated with delayed appearance of PG. Three female rabbits, with dated 27 day pregnancies were infused with D15/.2% saline for 48 hours (15 mg glucose/kg/min). Three controls were infused with D4/.2% saline for 48 hours (3 mg glucose/kg/min). Seventy-three fetuses were delivered at 29 days gestation. Although not all D15 treated fetuses were hyperinsulinemic, fetuses were easily divided into low insulin ( 140 μU/ml) groups. Alveolar lavages of fetal lungs with saline were examined for phospholipids, but no differences were found in percentages of sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, or phosphatidylethanolamine. PG was undetectable in all specimens. Previous animal models for diabetic pregnancy have produced severe diabetes with anti-beta cell compounds administered to the mother. Fetal wastage & growth retardation often result. This model produces a late gestational hyperglycemic state with fetal hyperinsulinemia, macrosomia, & increased serum myoinositol.
Dynamic Response of Marine Propellers to Nonuniform Flowfields

The necessity to reduce propeller-induced ship vibrations has led to the adoption of skewed blades. Such blades are more flexible than conventional ones and respond dynamically to the nonuniform velocity field generated by a ship's hull. The resulting time-dependent hydrodynamic and inertial loads may either alleviate or magnify the over-all forces and couples exerted by the propeller. These hydroelastic effects have been analyzed theoretically and verified experimentally on a model propeller.
Thoracotomy for persistent bronchopleural fistula in the very low birth weight infant

Although conservative treatment is appropriate for most very low birth weight infants with bronchopleural fistulas, early surgical closure may improve survival in properly selected patients. We report our experience with successful surgical closure in 3 consecutive neonates weighing <800 g.
Magnetic materials based on iron dispersed in graphitic matrices, part I: Superparamagnetic iron in an amorphous matrix

Abstract New superparamagnetic, iron-containing materials have been synthesized from petroleum pitch and Fe 2 (CO) 9 . The materials are air-sensitive and without protection from O 2 appear to consist mostly of α-Fe 2 O 3 . Superparamagnetic metallic Fe dominates in a protected system. The materials were characterized by the Faraday magnetostatic method and Mossbauer spectroscopy. Some hypotheses relating to the genesis of the materials are suggested.
Foreign Language Attitudes Survey: Georgia Superintendents and High School Principals

The writer conducted a survey of superintendents and high school principals in Georgia to determine the attitude of school administrators to foreign language study. The results of this study indicate that school administrators in Georgia in general have a relatively high opinion of foreign language study, both in high school and college, especially in the case of those individuals who have studied a language themselves. The findings suggest that foreign language teachers in Georgia need to capitalize on this relatively positive attitude and work with the administrators to reestablish foreign languages as a meaningful component of the high school (and elementary school) curriculum.
In the hands of the British: the treatment of American POWs during the War of Independence.

(2000). In the Hands of the British: The Treatment of American POWs during the War of Independence. The Historian: Vol. 62, No. 4, pp. 731-758.
De novo deposition of laminin‐positive basement membrane in vitro by normal hepatocytes and during hepatocarcinogenesis

De novo formation of laminin-positive basement membranes was found to be a distinct morphologic feature of diethylnitrosamine/phenobarbital-induced hepatocellular carcinomas of the rat. The first appearance of extracellularly located laminin occurred in the pre-neoplastic liver lesions (corresponding to neoplastic nodules), and this feature became successively more prominent during the course of hepatocellular carcinoma development. Most groups of tumor cells were surrounded by laminin-positive basement membrane material. The laminin-positive material was also deposited along the sinusoids, a location where no laminin was seen in normal rat liver. The amount of extractable laminin from hepatocellular carcinomas was significantly higher (approximately 100 ng per mg tissue) than that of normal liver tissue (less than 20 ng per mg). In vitro experiments demonstrated that normal and pre-neoplastic rat hepatocytes had the capacity to lay down basement membrane-like material. This occurred, however, only when the hepatocytes were cocultured with certain feeder cells or when grown in the presence of their conditioned media. These results indicate that during experimental hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat some as yet undefined humoral factor(s) might influence the hepatocytes to turn on genes encoding the basement membrane components and further stimulate the assembly and deposition of basement membranes.
New program requirements for diagnostic radiology: update and discussion of the more complex requirements.

AJR:190, January 2008 125 pages. Many of the comments expressed concern regarding the new requirement for 12 months of training in diagnostic radiology before a resident is allowed to stand independent in-house calls, while others supported the RRC on this controversial issue. The RRC prepared responses to all comments; a single response was prepared to groups of comments that were of a similar nature. Based on the comments received regarding 12 months of training before residents are allowed to stand independent calls, the RRC revised the original wording of this requirement to clarify its intent that it indeed pertains only to independent call situations. It was not the intent of the RRC for this requirement to dictate policies regarding resident supervision during normal working hours when there presumably is a full complement of radiology faculty present. Furthermore, appreciating the difficulty that programs might experience in modifying call schedules given a July 2007 implementation date, the RRC opted to delay implementation of all the new requirements until July 1, 2008. Minor changes also were made to a few other proposed requirements based on the comments received. The RRC had proposed that residents be allowed to rotate up to 15 months in a single subspecialty, but as that was noted to be in conflict with current ABR requirements, the requirement was rewritten to continue the current limitation of such rotations to 12 months. To clarify the requirement regarding the faculty member responsible for pediatric radiology, a statement in the current program requirements, which had been eliminated, was reinstated: “a pediatric radiologist may have a primary appointment at another institution and still be the designated faculty member supervising pediatric radiologic education.” Finally, in response to some misunderstanding regarding how the requirement for teaching radiologic–pathologic correlation New Program Requirements for Diagnostic Radiology: Update and Discussion of the More Complex Requirements
The continuity paradox and emergent linguistic structure: Discontinuous sortal concepts versus the innate syntax hypothesis

Abstract Sortal concepts provide children with criteria for the categorical differentiation of count nouns and mass nouns in languages with a count/mass distinction. This article discusses the paradox encountered by Carey in her empirical studies of the continuity hypothesis , the view that innate infant perception of qualities and objects is identical to adult categorization in general (e.g. Pinker, 1984; McNamara, 1982). This view contrasts with the discontinuity hypothesis , the view that infant perception of qualities and objects is of an entirely different order from adult conceptualization of categorization and sortal plurality (e.g. Quine, 1960, 1969, 1973). Unfortunately, Carey's interpretation of her empirical studies leads to a paradox: she finds evidence for both continuity and discontinuity. Contrary to Quine's predictions, she finds evidence for adult-like infant perception of persistent physical objects by 4 months of age, but finds that children do not perceive ‘other kinds’ of sortal classification in an adult-like way until at least, 11 months of age, a surprising discontinuity. We argue that Quine and Carey both erroneously construe the perception of persistent physical objects as a sortal concept. We deploy the semiotic theory of C.S. Peirce (1839–1914) to analyze the studies presented by Carey and thereby reconcile the paradoxical interpretations of her empirical evidence. Contrary to Quine and Carey's common assumption, we claim that children's perception of physical objects (part of Peirce's proposed second category of innate conceptualization) is independent from the later development of true sortal categorization (a derived complication of Peirce's third innate category). In the Peircean analysis there is a fundamental continuity in the overall process of conceptual and linguistic acquisition from birth to adulthood, but at the same time, the Peircean model accounts for differences in cognitive and linguistic abilities empirically demonstrated to exist, between infants, young children, and adults.