cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Role of Health Advocacy in Transitions from Pediatric to Adult Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs: Bridging Families, Provider and Community Services.

Background Youth and young adults with special healthcare needs (YASHCN) experience challenges during transition from pediatric to adult care. Prior studies have not examined how community and healthcare resources can work together to assist YASHCN in transitioning from child-focused care and services to adult-oriented providers. Objective The aim of this study was to develop a theoretical understanding of how family, healthcare providers and community supports can assist YASHCN during the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare and services. Design/Methods We conducted 41 semi-structured interviews with YASHCN aged 16–25, their family members and healthcare and community providers. We focused our interviews on support mechanisms, both within the traditional healthcare system, and those available in the community. Using grounded theory methods, we performed a multi-step analysis process. Results The theoretical code “Transition Advocacy” was developed from the data. This theoretical perspective arose from three major categories, which were developed in the analysis: “Fighting for healthcare”, “Obtaining resources”, and “Getting ready to transition”. Transition Advocacy consists of the presence of, or need for, a healthcare “advocate” who did or can assist the YASHCN with the healthcare transition, particularly to navigate complex health or community services. The “advocate” role was performed by family members, healthcare or agency professionals, or sometimes the YASHCN themselves. If advocates were identified, youth were more likely to obtain needed services. Conclusions Parents, health providers, and community agencies are potentially well-poised to assist transitioning YASHCN. Efforts to encourage development of strong advocacy skills will facilitate better transitions for YASHCN.
The Applicability of $-Calculus to Solve Some Turing Machine Undecidable Problems

The $-calculus process algebra for problem solving applies the cost performance measures to converge in finitetime or in the limit to optimal solutions with minimal problem solving costs. The $-calculus belongs to superTuringmodels of computation. Its main goal is to provide the support to solve hard computational problems. It allows alsoto solve in the limit some undecidable problems. In the paper we demonstrate how to solve in the limit Turing MachineHalting Problem, to approximate the universal search algorithm, to decide diagonalization language, nontrivialproperties of recursively enumerable languages, and how to solve Post Correspondence Problem and Busy BeaverProblem.
Glutathione and redox signaling in substance abuse

Throughout the last couple decades, the cause and consequences of substance abuse has expanded to identify the underlying neurobiological signaling mechanisms associated with addictive behavior. Chronic use of drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine and alcohol leads to the formation of oxidative or nitrosative stress (ROS/RNS) and changes in glutathione and redox homeostasis. Of importance, redox-sensitive post-translational modifications on cysteine residues, such as S-glutathionylation and S-nitrosylation could impact on the structure and function of addiction related signaling proteins. In this commentary, we evaluate the role of glutathione and redox signaling in cocaine-, methamphetamine- and alcohol addiction and conclude by discussing the possibility of targeting redox pathways for the therapeutic intervention of these substance abuse disorders.
Nonlinear Stochastic System Identification of Skin Using Volterra Kernels

Volterra kernel stochastic system identification is a technique that can be used to capture and model nonlinear dynamics in biological systems, including the nonlinear properties of skin during indentation. A high bandwidth and high stroke Lorentz force linear actuator system was developed and used to test the mechanical properties of bulk skin and underlying tissue in vivo using a non-white input force and measuring an output position. These short tests (5 s) were conducted in an indentation configuration normal to the skin surface and in an extension configuration tangent to the skin surface. Volterra kernel solution methods were used including a fast least squares procedure and an orthogonalization solution method. The practical modifications, such as frequency domain filtering, necessary for working with low-pass filtered inputs are also described. A simple linear stochastic system identification technique had a variance accounted for (VAF) of less than 75%. Representations using the first and second Volterra kernels had a much higher VAF (90–97%) as well as a lower Akaike information criteria (AICc) indicating that the Volterra kernel models were more efficient. The experimental second Volterra kernel matches well with results from a dynamic-parameter nonlinearity model with fixed mass as a function of depth as well as stiffness and damping that increase with depth into the skin. A study with 16 subjects showed that the kernel peak values have mean coefficients of variation (CV) that ranged from 3 to 8% and showed that the kernel principal components were correlated with location on the body, subject mass, body mass index (BMI), and gender. These fast and robust methods for Volterra kernel stochastic system identification can be applied to the characterization of biological tissues, diagnosis of skin diseases, and determination of consumer product efficacy.
The influence of aerobic exercise training on the double product break point in low-to-moderate risk adults

The double product is the product of the heart rate and systolic blood pressure. The double product break point (DPBP) is a physiologic threshold that occurs at similar exercise intensities to that of the ventilatory threshold (VT). The influence of aerobic exercise training on the DPBP has not yet been examined. The purpose of this study was to examine whether aerobic exercise training (ET) increases the exercise intensity at which the DPBP occurs, and whether it increases in a similar fashion to the VT. Seven males and 11 females, all sedentary (mean ± SD: age = 29.9 ± 10.5 years) underwent supervised cardiopulmonary exercise testing using a cycle ergometer ramp protocol at baseline and after 8 weeks of vigorous ET on a cycle ergometer. The VT was determined by gas analysis and the V-slope method. Experienced observers using standardized instructions visually determined the DPBP. Following ET, VO(2 peak), maximal workload, and body composition variables all showed significant positive changes. The VO(2) at which the DPBP and VT occurred increased significantly from baseline to follow-up (P < 0.001). At baseline and at follow-up, the DPBP and VT did not differ. The DPBP and VT were significantly correlated to each other at both time points. Results suggest that the DPBP responds to ET in a similar fashion to that of the VT, and may be an easier and more useful marker of the VT for exercise training purposes.
Management of peach rusty spot epidemics with biorational fungicides

A total of nine biorational fungicides were examined during the 2000 and 2001 growing seasons for their ability to manage rusty spot epidemics, caused by Podosphaera leucotricha, on moderately susceptible ‘Jerseyglo’ peach. The biorationals studied were the biological control agents Bacillus subtilis, Ampelomyces quisqualis and Phoma glomerata; the plant extracts neem seed oil, cinnamon oil and extracts from leaves of giant knotweed, Reynoutria sachalinensis; the inorganic compounds potassium bicarbonate and potassium dihydrogen phosphate; and chitosan, a deacetylated form of chitin derived from crustacean shells. Disease assessments, consisting of fruit lesion counts, were made at three- to six-day intervals during the course of the epidemics. Three biorational fungicides, B. subtilis, neem seed oil extract and potassium bicarbonate, significantly reduced areas under the disease incidence and lesion density progression curves in both years of the study. The remaining biorational materials reduced disease in only one year or neither year. When the logistic model was fit to the disease progress curves, the three most effective biorationals also significantly reduced the estimated maximum disease level or carrying capacity parameter K. Although these reductions were statistically significant, the amount of disease control was relatively low, ranging from 24 to 34%, versus 94% control for the myclobutanil standard. Thus, B. subtilis, neem seed oil extract and potassium bicarbonate provide insufficient efficacy for commercial management of rusty spot when applied alone. However, since these biorationals consistently provided some levels of control, they may be candidates for use in integrated programs with conventional fungicides.
Empirical limb effect curves for the FeI lines λ5250 and λ5576

The center to limb variation of solar spectral line positions, or limb effect, has been measured for the two neutral iron lines at 5250.2 A and 5576.1 A. Both limb effect curves show a disk-center reversal of 40–60 ms−1 and the λ 5576 data also exhibit a possible second reversal at the limb. The limb effect curves are best described by polynomial expressions rather than by traditional power law expressions.
Fermion Ensembles of Maximum Entropy

Ensembles of particles obeying Fermi-Dirac statistics are considered from a point of view which is analogous to some recent work of Mayer on classical particle statistics. The density functions ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{n}$ are defined for $n$ much smaller than the average number of particles in the ensemble. Since the knowledge of only a few ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{n}$ is sufficient for the computation of most averages of physical interest, it is important to compare different ensembles with the same density functions, say ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{1}$ and ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{2}$. The ensemble with the largest entropy is constructed as being the most significant. A number of simple examples are briefly considered.
Cognitive treatment of test anxiety: Rational restructuring versus attentional training

This study examined the relative efficacy of rational restructuring and attentional training for the cognitive treatment of test anxiety. Both treatments were presented in an identical format, which involved imaginal exposure to anxiety-provoking testing situations. In the rational restructuring condition subjects were trained to identify and modify irrational beliefs, and in the attentional training condition subjects were trained to reduce attention to task-relevant variables. The results suggested that both cognitive treatments were superior to the waiting-list control group in reducing test anxiety and improving performance on analogue tasks, and that treatment effects were maintained at an 8-month follow-up. The lack of significant differences between cognitive treatments was discussed in the context of Bandura's self-efficacy theory. In addition, anxiety-reduction scores (derived from the in-session coping exercises) were found to be significant predictors of treatment outcome.
On Editing and Human Studies

It is both an honor and a pleasure to participate in celebrating 25 years of Human Studies by serving as guest editor of this Special Issue. In assembling this volume I have been able to experience ab initio the many facets of Hu? man Studies that make it such an important journal ? its interdisciplinary character, high intellectual standards, commitment to knowledge wherever it might be found and however it might appear, and its fostering of a strong sense of collegiality. I have had the opportunity to work with scholars who think and write with insight and clarity and who are passionate about their own work and their engagement with the work of others. They considered with thought fulness and grace my editorial suggestions and responded with care and sen? sitivity. All displayed in their own ways our common commitment to this project and to the broader project of Human Studies. Rather than describe their contributions here, I leave them to speak for themselves, which they do elo? quently. As they all testify, the 25th anniversary of Human Studies is indeed an event to be celebrated.
Next solar cycle expected to be intense

Solar Cycle 24 will be a period of intense solar storms that will peak in late 2011 to mid-2012, according to the NOAA-led Solar Cycle 24 Prediction Panel's consensus forecast that was released on 25 April. The forecast will be used for planning by government and industry groups; power and communication networks, satellites, and airplanes can be affected by sunspot activity. The panel evaluated more than 40 predictions, which ranged from 42 to 185 sunspots total for the cycle. The consensus prediction was based on six techniques, three based on statistics and three based on physics and theory of the Sun's dynamo conveyor belt. The validity of the prediction will soon get its first test; if it does not accurately predict the Solar Cycle 23 minimum, it will also likely fail to predict the timing, duration, and intensity of the next peak, said panel chair Douglas Biesecker, a solar physicist with the NOAA Space Environment Center.
Flexibility in Southern Peru Coastal Economies: A Vertebrate Perspective on the Terminal Pleistocene/Holocene Transition

ABSTRACTVertebrate collections from Quebradas Tacahuay, Jaguay, de los Burros, and the Ring Site, located on the southern coast of Peru and occupied during the Terminal Pleistocene and Early Holocene, indicate that a flexible use of fishes and other marine vertebrates began with the earliest occupations known for the region and continued into the Early Holocene. Terminal Pleistocene collections have lower fish diversity and fishes are from trophic levels at or below 3.5. By comparison, fish diversity in Early Holocene collections is higher and the range of trophic levels broader. Local economic specialization was practiced at these sites, but no single strategy was practiced at any of them, nor did a particular strategy prevail throughout the region. People used many techniques at each site, demonstrating their ability to take advantage of differences within a broadly similar resource base. Despite environmental changes associated with the Pleistocene/Holocene transition, coastal communities continued to ...
Compliance Employing a Two-Feet-in-the-Door Procedure

Summary The typical foot-in-the-door experimental procedure increases compliance for a hard critical request by preceding it with an easy request. The current study investigated whether interposing an intermediate request between the initial and final request would increase compliance above the level obtained in the typical foot-in-the-door procedure. The level of the intermediate request was easy, moderate, or hard. The Ss, 120 persons randomly selected from the telephone directory, were called and asked to help a new radio station. The results showed that while all three-request procedures produced increased compliance when compared to the two-request foor-in-the-door procedure, a significant increase occurred only when the intermediate request was of a moderate level.
Contrasting behavior of pentafluorophenoxyacetone and pentafluorobenzyloxyacetone in electron impact and electron capture mass spectrometry.

Towards the goal of finding new ketone electrophores suitable as molecular labels for electrophoric release tags, pentafluorophenoxyacetone (1) and pentafluorbenzyloxyacetone (2) were prepared. Both ketones were evaluated by electron capture (EC) and electron impact (EI) modes of mass spectrometry (MS). By EC-MS, 1 nearly gave a single ion (as desired), whereas 2 gave many ions This behavior was completely reversed in EI-MS. To account for certain ion fragments in the EC mass spectrum of 2, an anion radical McLafferty-type rearrangement and loss of a carbene neutral were postulated. Electron impact of 1 gave an abundant ion at m/z 117 (C 5 F 3+ ), which was suggested to be a diyne cation
Polymerization of 1-naphthol and related phenolic compounds by an extracellular fungal enzyme

Abstract An extracellular phenol oxidase was isolated from the culture filtrate of the fungus Rhizoctonia praticola by gel filtration on Sephadex G-200. The enzyme catalyzed the polymerization of 1-naphthol to dimeric, trimeric, tetrameric, and pentameric compounds as determined by mass spectrometry. One product with a molecular weight of 286 was identified as 4,4′-bi-1-naphthol. Other compounds that were dimerized or polymerized by the enzyme were phenol, o -methoxyphenol (guaiacol), p -methylphenol ( p -cresol), 2,6-dimethoxyphenol, and 1,3- and 1,5-dihydroxynaphthalene. The product from 2,6-dimethoxyphenol was isolated and identified as 3,5,3′,5′-tetramethoxydiphenoquinone.
Partially generalized least squares and two-stage least squares estimators

Abstract A class of partially generalized least squares estimators and a class of partially generalized two-stage least squares estimators in regression models with heteroscedastic errors are proposed. By using these estimators a researcher can attain higher efficiency than that attained by the least squares or the two-stage least squares estimators without explicitly estimating each component of the heteroscedastic variances. However, the efficiency is not as high as that of the generalized least squares or the generalized two-stage least squares estimator calculated using the knowledge of the true variances. Hence the use of the term partial.
Transforming growth factor-beta-mediated regulation of BK virus gene expression

The increasing prevalence of BK virus (BKV)-associated diseases in immunosuppressed patients has prompted an investigation of the immune response to BKV, especially the role of cytokines in regulating viral replication. We examined the effect of TGF-β, a cytokine that is stimulated by certain immunosuppressive therapies, on BKV gene expression during lytic infection of renal proximal tubule epithelial cells. Viral gene expression, and specifically the activity of the BKV early promoter, is regulated by TGF-β in a strain-dependent manner. Promoter activity is upregulated in the presence of TGF-β for the TU strain of BKV, and not for the Dik, Dunlop, or Proto-2 strains. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we have identified a small segment of the TU promoter that is required for stimulation in response to TGF-β. These results demonstrate that BKV strains can respond differently to cytokine treatment and suggest that TGF-β may play a role in the reactivation of BKV.
K2S2O8-Initiated Sulfonation of Methane to Methanesulfonic Acid

The direct synthesis of methanesulfonic acid (MSA) from CH4 and SO3 has been successfully achieved in an H2SO4 solvent using K2S2O8 as an initiator. The maximum SO3 conversion to MSA was achieved at 1000 psi of CH4, 30 wt % of SO3, and 350 μmol of K2S2O8 at 333 K for a 2-h reaction time. SO3 conversion to MSA is approximately independent of reaction time above 2 h, at which time the SO3 conversion is observed to plateau at conversions much less than 100%. This plateau has been attributed to a loss of solution SO3 as a result of the formation of CH3(SO3)nH and (CH3SO2)2O. The rate of MSA formation exhibits a positive-order dependence on the CH4 pressure, and this pressure dependence is nonlinear, rising more rapidly for pressures equal to or greater than 800 psi. Addition of SO3 to the solvent medium at concentrations greater than 10% results in a rapid decrease in SO3 conversion as a result of the formation of significant byproducts and CH3(SO3)nH. At both 333 and 363 K, the SO3 conversion to MSA passes t...
The role of inflammation in cerebral aneurysms

The natural history of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (IAs) is poorly understood. At present, risk factors for aneurysm rupture are limited to demographics and rudimentary anatomic features of the aneurysm. The first sign of aneurysm destabilization and rupture may be subarachnoid hemorrhage, a potentially devastating brain injury with high morbidity and mortality. An emerging body of literature suggests a complex inflammatory cascade likely promotes aneurysm wall remodeling and progressive ballooning of the arterial wall, ultimately terminating in aneurysm rupture. These events likely begin with hemodynamic, flow-related endothelial injury; the injured endothelium stimulates inflammation, including the recruitment and transmigration of inflammatory cells, particularly macrophages. Various proteases are secreted by the inflammatory infiltrate, resulting in degradation of the extracellular matrix and the structural changes unique to IAs. Detailed understanding of these inflammatory processes may result in (1) early identification of patients at high risk for aneurysm rupture, perhaps via arterial wall imaging, and (2) targeted, noninvasive therapies to treat or even prevent cerebral aneurysms.
EFFECTS OF LATTICE FLUCTUATIONS ON ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION IN METAL/CONJUGATED-OLIGOMER/METAL STRUCTURES

The electronic transmission across metal/conjugated-oligomer/metal structures in the presence of lattice fluctuations is studied for short oligomer chains. The lattice fluctuations are approximated by static white noise disorder. Resonant transmission occurs when the energy of an incoming electron coincides with a discrete electronic level of the oligomer. The corresponding transmission peak diminishes in intensity with increasing disorder strength. Because of disorder there is an enhancement of the electronic transmission for energies that lie within the electronic gap of the oligomer. If fluctuations are sufficiently strong, a transmission peak within the gap is found at the midgap energy E=0 for degenerate conjugated oligomers (e.g., {ital trans}-polyacetylene) and E{ne}0 for AB-type degenerate oligomers. These results can be interpreted in terms of soliton-antisoliton states created by lattice fluctuations. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
Solubility of Anthracene in Ternary 2-Butoxyethanol + Alkane + Propanol Solvent Mixtures

Experimental solubilities are reported for anthracene dissolved in ternary 2-butoxyethanol + cyclohexane + 1-propanol, 2-butoxyethanol + cyclohexane + 2-propanol, 2-butoxyethanol + heptane + 1-propanol, and 2-butoxyethanol + heptane + 2-propanol solvent mixtures at 298.15 K. Nineteen compositions were studied for each of the four solvent systems. Results of these measurements, along with published anthracene solubility data in 20 additional ternary two alkane + alcohol and alkane + two alcohol solvent systems, are used to test the predictive ability of the combined nearly ideal multiple solvent (NIMS)/Redlich−Kister and combined NIMS/BAB equations. Computations showed that the combined NIMS/Redlich−Kister equation predicted the experimental solubility data to within an overall average absolute deviation of about 1.4% for the 24 systems considered in the present study. A slightly larger deviation of about 1.6% was noted in the case of the combined NIMS/BAB equation.
Infusing Systems Thinking into Career Counseling.

This study examined the role of career counselors in infusing systems thinking into occupational advising. The authors conducted a qualitative review and analysis of selected literature on systems thinking and analyzed trends for adaptation to career counseling practice. This analysis suggests that career counselors need to infuse systems approaches into professional practice, for example, use of systems language that assists the client in exploring career plans. The authors also identified various new right-brain directed thinking approaches (Pink, 2006; Shutt, 2008) for use in career counseling sessions. Results and implications are discussed.
Impact of Changing Structure of the Food Industries on Food Supply and Price

complete chain of industries producing inputs and commodities which are linked to processing and marketing of food; thus, the food sector includes the farm input, farm producer, and food processing, wholesaling, and retailing industries. The economic structure of the food sector is viewed in the traditional framework as the characteristics of industry organization, including the number and size distribution of firms as related to firm conduct and economic performance. The economic question that surfaces concerns the potential of the food sector, in its current economic structural formation, to contribute to domestic food shortages and price inflation. The purpose of this paper is to discuss (a) the economic structure of the food sector as it
Protection of the photoreceptors in ROP (retinopathy of prematurity)

Purpose Interventions with putative protective effects on the immature photoreceptors are part of the clinical care of preterm infants. In rat models of ROP, the early status of the photoreceptors predicts ROP outcome, and modification of the energy demands of the developing photoreceptors affects ROP outcome. In prematurely born subjects with thoroughly documented newborn care, we studied the relation of photoreceptor status and ROP outcome. Methods Retinal function and vasculature were characterized at pre- and post-term ages. Parameters of phototransduction and of post-receptor activity were derived from ERG a- and b-waves. The integrated curvature of the arterioles was used to quantify the retinal vasculature. The main newborn interventions, including oxygen limits, were categorized. Results In infancy, the small ERG responses reflected immaturity of the photoreceptors and differed significantly between those who developed ROP and those who did not. The higher the integrated curvature the more severe the ROP. The magnitude of the ERG abnormalities varied significantly with the severity of ROP and integrated curvature. The putatively protective clinical interventions were significantly associated with better photoreceptor function and better ROP outcome. Conclusion Protecting the immature photoreceptors appears to improve ROP outcome. Future interventions that target the photoreceptors may prevent ROP.
Multiple Regulatory Elements Are Required to Direct Trophoblast Interferon Gene Expression in Choriocarcinoma Cells and Trophectoderm

Interferon-tau (IFN tau) is produced exclusively by the trophectoderm during the peri-implantation stage of pregnancy in ruminant ungulate species. Human choriocarcinoma cells (Jar) stably transfected with 1.8 kilobases of promoter from a bovine IFN tau gene ahead of a human GH (hGH) reporter gene constitutively synthesize hGH, but expression is not increased further by exposure to Newcastle disease virus. This and earlier experiments suggest that the transcriptional cues regulating IFN tau expression are distinct from those operating on other type I IFN genes. Transient transfection experiments reveal that two distinct promoter regions are required for full constitutive expression: one proximal (to position -126), which directs basal expression, and a more distal promoter region (positions -280 to -400), which acts as an enhancer. Nuclear extracts prepared from ovine conceptuses during the period of IFN tau expression interact with the proximal promoter region (positions -34 to -126) to form several comp...
Re‐Situating Identity: The Politics of Race, Ethnicity, and Culture

Re-Situating Identity: The Politics of Race, Ethnicity, and Culture. VERED AMIT-TALAI and CAROLINE KNOWLES. eds. Ontario: Broadview Press, 1996. 313 pp., contributors, references, index.
Simulating through-plane permeability of fibrous materials with different fiber lengths

Assuming that fibers can be represented as straight cylinders, an algorithm for generating virtual 3D layered fibrous media made up of fibers having identical diameters but different lengths is presented. It is shown that for a given basis weight and computational box (sample size), reducing the fiber length causes the solid volume fraction (SVF) to increase as the fibers pack next to one another more efficiently. The air permeability of these media is numerically simulated and discussed in detail with respect to the available 2D and 3D studies in the literature. Our permeability calculations show an excellent agreement with the predictions of the empirical equation of Davies [1] as well as the analytical model of Spielman and Goren [2]. Such an agreement indicates that, within the range of dimensions considered, the fiber length has no significant influence on the materials' through-plane permeability as long as the SVF remains constant. While this concept has been empirically observed in the past, our work is the first numerical simulation devised to confirm it.
B cells in HIV infection and disease

In recent years, intense research efforts have been dedicated to elucidating the pathogenic mechanisms of HIV-associated disease progression. In addition to the progressive depletion and dysfunction of CD4(+) T cells, HIV infection also leads to extensive defects in the humoral arm of the immune system. The lack of immune control of the virus in almost all infected individuals is a great impediment to the treatment of HIV-associated disease and to the development of a successful HIV vaccine. This Review focuses on advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of B-cell dysfunction in HIV-associated disease and discusses similarities with other diseases that are associated with B-cell dysfunction.
Two Letters by Washington Irving

(2003). Two Letters by Washington Irving. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 16, No. 4, pp. 48-50.
Engineered biosynthesis of novel polyketides from Streptomyces spore pigment polyketide synthases

A series of 12 recombinants expressing sets of polyketide synthase (PKS) genes from the whiE (Streptomyces coelicolor), sch (S. halstedii), and cur (S. curacoi) spore pigment biosynthetic gene clusters were prepared and shown to produce four groups of novel polyketides. Mixtures of undecaketides and dodecaketides were produced by the minimal PKS alone (TW93b, TW93c, and TW93d) or in the presence of the (unnatural) act ketoreductase (KR) (TW94b, TW94c, and TW94d), whereas when the whiE-ORFVI cyclase was present, only dodecaketides (TW95a and TW95b) arose, in high yield. This implies that the whiE minimal PKS requires an additional subunit (the cyclase) to stabilize the complex between the long nascent polyketide chain and the minimal PKS to ensure that the chain reaches the full 24 carbons. These experiments suggest that the native spore pigment is a C24 molecule with a pentacenequinone structure which is first cyclized C9 to C14. A fourth set of uncharacterized polyketides was produced when the complete s...
Quantitative 31P spectroscopic imaging of human brain at 4 Tesla: Assessment of gray and white matter differences of phosphocreatine and ATP

This report describes the implementation and application of a multicompartment analysis of (31)P spectroscopic imaging data to determine the tissue-specific heterogeneities in metabolite content in the human brain and surrounding tissue. Using this information and a multicompartment regression analysis the phosphocreatine and ATP content of "pure" cerebral gray and white matter, the cerebellum, and skeletal muscle was determined in a group of 10 healthy volunteers. The data were converted to mM units using previously reported values for the T(1)s of phosphocreatine and ATP at 4 T, the water content of human brain, and an external reference for absolute quantification. The phosphocreatine concentration in cerebral gray and white matter, the cerebellum, and skeletal muscle was 3.53 +/- 0.33, 3.33 +/- 0.37, 3.75 +/- 0.66, and 25.8 +/- 2.3 mM, respectively. The ATP concentration in cerebral gray and white matter, the cerebellum, and skeletal muscle was 2.19 +/- 0.33, 3.41 +/- 0.33, 1.75 +/- 0.58, and 8.5 +/- 1.9 mM, respectively. Magn Reson Med 45:46-52, 2001.
A controlled study of the effectiveness of the Rinkel method of immunotherapy for ragweed pollen hay fever

In a double-blind study, we compared the effects of the Rinkel method of immunotherapy with ragweed pollen extract and placebo on symptoms of ragweed hay fever and immunologic parameters in 24 ragweed-sensitive patients. Each had a skin-test end point by Rinkel serial dilution titration to ragweed pollen extract at 1:312,500 w/v or greater dilution, a 2 + skin test to ragweed AgE at 0.1 microgram /ml or greater dilution, and in vitro leukocyte histamine release by ragweed pollen extract. None had had immunotherapy for at least 7 yr. Patients matched on the basis of leukocyte histamine release by ragweed were assigned to two treatment groups (12 patients in each group). One group received ragweed pollen extract, and the other, placebo, both administered by the Rinkel method between June and October, 1978. Treatment doses were derived from skin-test end points. The median maintenance ("optimal dose") for patients receiving ragweed pollen extract was 0.53 ml of 1:312,500 w/v and the mean cumulative dose of ragweed pollen extract given during the study contained 0.094 micrograms of ragweed AgE. Symptom-medication scores of all patients rose and fell with ragweed pollen counts. No significant differences were observed in mean daily symptom-medication scores, antiragweed IgG or IgE levels, leukocyte histamine release by ragweed, total IgE levels, or skin-test end-point dilutions with ragweed pollen extract between the group receiving ragweed pollen extract and the group receiving placebo. Despite the absence of specific effect on symptom-medication scores and measured immunologic variates, 10 3f the 12 ragweed-treated patients and 10 of the 12 placebo-treated patients were of the opinion that their hay fever symptoms during the ragweed pollen season were less severe in 1978 than in 1977 and that they had been helped by Rinkel method immunotherapy. Under the conditions of the study, Rinkel method immunotherapy with ragweed pollen extract was no more effective than placebo given in an imitation of the Rinkel method.
Environmental science: the carbon cycle under stress.

In the summer of 2003, Europe experienced an exceptionally hot and dry spell. That 'natural experiment' prompted a continental-scale analysis of how terrestrial ecosystems respond to such climatic extremes.
Development of testing laminated conductors for the CIT TF coils

Fabrication techniques and mechanical property characterizations are presented for a laminated-composite plate for the CIT (Compact Ignition Tokamak) toroidal field (TF) coil. The significant reinforcement which is provided by plates on either side of a central copper plate is shown by both finite-element analyses and in experimental data obtained in compression at room temperature. Applications to magnet structures are discussed along with their influence on the design of a testing program to adequately characterize the mechanical response of this structural composite. >
FUNCTIONAL ZONATION OF THE GUINEA PIG ADRENAL CORTEX: DIFFERENCES IN MITOCHONDRIAL STEROID METABOLISM BETWEEN THE INNER AND OUTER ZONES

Previous studies established that cells isolated from the chromatically distinct inner (primarily zona reticularis) and outer (zona fasciculata + zona glomerulosa) zones of the guinea pig adrenal cortex had vastly different steroidogenic capabilities; the outer zone produced far more cortisol than the inner zone. The mechanism(s) responsible for those differences were investigated by comparing mitochondrial steroid metabolism in the inner and outer zones. Cytochrome P–450 concentrations were similar in the two zones, but 11β-hydroxylase activity was approximately twice as great in the outer zone. More importantly, cholesterol sidechain cleavage, the rate-limiting step in steroidogenesis, was nearly 10 times greater in outer than inner zone mitochondria. Free cholesterol concentrations were also far higher in outer zone mitochondria. The results suggest that the relatively low level of steroid secretion by cells of the zona reticularis is attributable, at least in part, to deficiencies in mitochondrial cho...
Can interactive skills-based seminars with standardized patients enhance clinicians’ prevention skills? Measuring the impact of a CME program☆

Abstract Objective Communication skills are crucial for high-risk behavior screening and counseling. Practicing physicians have limited opportunities to improve these skills. This paper assesses the impact of a continuing medical education (CME) program for Student Health Center clinicians that targeted communication skills, screening practices and patient satisfaction. Methods Program evaluation included pre- and post-objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE's), chart review, and provider and patient satisfaction surveys. Data were analyzed using paired t -tests and ranked sum tests. Results OSCE scores ( n =15) revealed significant improvements in communication skills overall ( p =0.004) and within specific domains (data gathering: p =0.003; rapport building: p =0.01; patient education: p =0.02), but no change in case-specific knowledge ( p =0.1). Participants ( n =14) reported high satisfaction with program methods (mean=4.6/5) and content (mean=4.7/5), 70% planning to alter their clinical practice. Chart audits (pre=96, post=103) showed increased screening for smoking (RR 1.65, p =0.03), depressed mood (RR 1.40, p =0.04), anhedonia (RR 1.47, p =0.01), sexual activity (RR 1.73, p =0.002) and drinking (RR 1.77, p =0.04). Sampling of satisfaction among participants' patients (pre n =689, post n =383) detected no increase in already high baseline satisfaction. Conclusion This curriculum improved clinicians' relevant skills and screening behavior. Practice implications Skills-oriented CME can improve clinicians' communication skills and screening and counseling practices.
Chromosomal Aberrations in a Population of Ground Squirrels

Chromosomes were analyzed from a population of Spermophilus beldingi that included an adult female and three juveniles from the same burrow. All animals had a diploid number of 30. The adult and a juvenile female from the burrow had identical aberrant karyotypes containing an unpaired submetacentric and a minute metacentric chromosome. A familial aberration involving an X chromosome, without phenotypic alteration, is most probable.
The thinning of a silicon/silicon oxide wafer for transmission electron microscopy

Abstract A backlit holder with a polyvinylchloride mask was found to eliminate the use of a wax mask which gives rise to a slight residue on the samples. Analysis of the contour pattern produced from a buckled region of the bilayer showed that a compressive strain of about 4 × 10 −3 produced by differential thermal contraction associated with cooling from the 1100°C growth temperature was present in the thermally oxidized silicon wafers.
Intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for idiopathic cystoid macular edema

Abstract Purpose To report intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for idiopathic cystoid macular edema (ICME). Design Interventional case series. Methods Two patients with ICME were treated with intravitreal triamcinolone. Results In one patient, best-corrected acuity was 20/70 before treatment and 20/30 6 months posttreatment in both eyes. Foveal thickness was 606 μm before and 197 μm posttreatment in the right eye and 542 μm before and 190 μm posttreatment in the left eye. In another patient, best-corrected acuity was 20/200 before treatment and 20/50 5 months posttreatment; foveal thickness was 580 μm before and 208 μm posttreatment. Recurrence of macular edema responded to repeat intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in both patients. Conclusions Intravitreal triamcinolone may be associated with reduced edema and improved vision in patients with ICME; however, these changes may be transient.
Using SCOR as a supply chain management framework for government agency contract requirements

This paper will present a model that uses the Supply-Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model as a foundation for a framework to illustrate the information needed throughout a product lifecycle to support a healthy supply chain management function and the subsequent contract requirements to enable it. It will also show where in the supply chain the information must be extracted. The ongoing case study used to exemplify the model is NASA's (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) Ares I program for human spaceflight.
ResDe: a new tool for visual definition of distance restraints for crystallographic refinement

Manually defined distance restraints can be useful during structure refinement, particularly in low-resolution refinement where the additional restraints are needed to maintain appropriate stereochemical geometry. A large number of restraints are often required when refining macromolecular structures. Currently, restraint definition requires manual editing of a text file, which can be a daunting task when working with a large number of restraints. ResDe (Restraint Definer) is a suite of Python-based tools that allows the user to quickly define and edit restraints using the PyMOL graphical interface.
Metal Ligation by Walker Homology B Aspartate βD262 at Site 3 of the Latent but Not Activated Form of the Chloroplast F1-ATPase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Site-directed mutations D262C, D262H, D262N, and D262T were made to the beta subunit Walker Homology B aspartate of chloroplast F(1)-ATPase in Chlamydomonas. Photoautotrophic growth and photophosphorylation rates were 3-14% of wild type as were ATPase activities of purified chloroplast F(1) indicating that betaD262 is an essential residue for catalysis. The EPR spectrum of vanadyl bound to Site 3 of chloroplast F(1) as VO(2+)-ATP gave rise to two EPR species designated B and C in wild type and mutants. (51)V-hyperfine parameters of species C, present exclusively in the activated enzyme state, did not change significantly by the mutations examined indicating that it is not an equatorial ligand to VO(2+), nor is it hydrogen-bonded to a coordinated water at an equatorial position. Every mutation changed the ratio of EPR species C/B and/or the (51)V-hyperfine parameters of species B, the predominant conformation of VO(2+)-nucleotide bound to Site 3 in the latent (down-regulated) state. The results indicate that the Walker Homology B aspartate coordinates the metal of the predominant metal-nucleotide conformation at Site 3 in the latent state but not in the conformation present exclusively upon activation and elucidates one of the specific changes in metal ligation involved with activation.
Pixel Value Graphical Password Scheme: Identifying Design Features and Requirements

Pixel value graphical password scheme was introduced with the aim to solve problems faced by users during authentication process that arising from current graphical password scheme weaknesses. Even though the idea of graphical password scheme is still under analysis stage, many researchers have come out with a lot of vulnerabilities finding for current graphical password scheme. Literature studies on vulnerabilities finding has contributed for a development of method design features and requirements for pixel value graphical password scheme. This paper is organized as begin with a brief introduction on graphical password scheme, followed by literature study outcome, discussion on features and requirements, and enclosed with topic conclusion.
Review, discussion, and summary of epidemiological studies.

This paper reviews and summarizes the epidemiological studies presented at the Symposium on the Health Effects of Acid Aerosols. Two studies of acute episodes examined different indicators of respi...
Failure Analysis of a Fractured Wrench Socket

Failure of a 13/16 in. wrench socket while hand tightening a socket was investigated using hardness test, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy techniques. Hardness and microstructure of the fractured socket are compared with those of other original (unfailed) wrench sockets from other manufacturers. Wrench material is a low carbon steel, and socket was manufactured in a powder metallurgy (PM) process. Results of this analysis indicate that non-uniform socket wall thickness, poor socket geometric design featuring sharp corners forming stress raisers, and poor sintering step in the PM process leaving unsintered particles were causes of the socket failure. The presence of the inclusions containing contaminants such as S and Al on the socket fracture surface may have played a role in this failure.
Brain injury and tumor necrosis factors induce calbindin D-28k in astrocytes: evidence for a cytoprotective response.

Calbindin is a 28 kDa calcium-binding protein expressed in restricted neuronal populations in the mammalian brain where it may play a role in protecting neurons against excitotoxic insults. Recent findings indicate that electrical activity and some neurotrophic factors can induce the expression of calbindin in neurons. We now report that brain injury, effected by systemic administration of the excitotoxin kainate or mechanical trauma, induces expression of calbindin in cells of the corpus callosum and subcortical white matter. Immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies to the astrocyte-specific proteins (glial fibrillary acidic protein and S-100β) established the identity of calbindin immunoreactive cells as astrocytes. Because brain injury is known to induce the expression of several neurotrophic factors and cytokines, we employed cultures of hippocampal and neocortical astrocytes to test the hypothesis that such factors can induce expression of calbindin in astrocytes. Tumor necrosis factors (TNFβ and TNFβ), cytokines that are expressed in response to brain injury, induced the expression of calbindin in cultured rat hippocampal and neocortical astrocytes. Two neurotrophic factors, basic fibroblast growth factor and nerve growth factor, did not induce calbindin in astrocytes. TNF-treated, calbindin-expressing astrocytes were resistant to acidosis and calcium ionophore toxicity, suggesting that TNFs and calbindin may serve a cytoprotective role in astrocytes in the injured brain. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Synthetic lethality by targeting EZH2 methyltransferase activity in ARID1A -mutated cancers

Ovarian tumors with common mutations in the epigenetic regulator ARID1A are shown to be sensitive to inhibition of EZH2, another epigenetic regulator, showing a synthetic lethality that could potentially be exploited therapeutically The gene encoding ARID1A, a chromatin remodeler, shows one of the highest mutation rates across many cancer types. Notably, ARID1A is mutated in over 50% of ovarian clear cell carcinomas, which currently have no effective therapy. To date, clinically applicable targeted cancer therapy based on ARID1A mutational status has not been described. Here we show that inhibition of the EZH2 methyltransferase acts in a synthetic lethal manner in ARID1A-mutated ovarian cancer cells and that ARID1A mutational status correlated with response to the EZH2 inhibitor. We identified PIK3IP1 as a direct target of ARID1A and EZH2 that is upregulated by EZH2 inhibition and contributed to the observed synthetic lethality by inhibiting PI3K–AKT signaling. Importantly, EZH2 inhibition caused regression of ARID1A-mutated ovarian tumors in vivo. To our knowledge, this is the first data set to demonstrate a synthetic lethality between ARID1A mutation and EZH2 inhibition. Our data indicate that pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 represents a novel treatment strategy for cancers involving ARID1A mutations.