cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of iterative reconstruction algorithms on peripheral MDCT angiography virtual histology plaque volumes: have we been overestimating disease burden?

Abstract Our objective was to compare plaque volumes of multidetector computed tomographic images reconstructed using adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR), model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR), and filtered back projection (FBP). We reviewed 25 patients for a total of 50 extremities imaged on the same scanner. Calcified plaque FBP volume (3468.2±2634.8 mm 3 ) was higher than ASIR (2548.1±2166.5 mm 3 ). Calcified plaque FBP volume was higher than MBIR (mean=2345.7±1935.4 mm 3 ). Our findings suggest that traditional FBP methods overestimate disease compared to newer reconstruction methods.
Effects of metrifonate, a long‐acting cholinesterease inhibitor, in alzheimer disease: Report of an open trial

This is the first study of a multiple-dose trial of metrifonate (Met), a long-acting cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitor, conducted over a prolonged period of time in humans. We have administered Met to 20 patients who met NINCDS-ADRDA criteria for probable Alzheimer disease (AD). Patients were given, under open conditions, single oral doses of Met. 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 15 mg/kg/wk. A statistically significant improvement in the Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS) scores was observed with the 5 mg/kg/wk dose. Maximal improvement on the ADAS was associated with a mean 55.9% (± 12.6% standard deviation) activity level of red blood cell (RBC) acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Over 80% inhibition of plasma and RBC ChE was achieved with only minor side effects. Cholinesterate inhibition in the CSF of two patients was 37% and 47.5% 24 hr after a second dose of 5 mg/kg/wk of Met separated by 7 days from the first dose. Twenty-seven minor side effects were reported: none on 2.5 mg, 5 on 5 mg, 9 on 7.5 mg, and 13 on the 15 mg dose. None of the side effects was clinically significant or drug related or required termination of treatment of dosage adjustment. We conclude that Met is a useful pharmacological probe of cholinergic function in the central nervous system and that double-blind evaluation of Met in AD is warranted.
Improved Analytical Bounds for Gambler’s Ruin Probabilities

Given integer-valued wagers Feller (1968) has established upper and lower bounds on the probability of ruin, which often turn out to be very close to each other. However, the exact calculation of these bounds depends on the unique non-trivial positive root of the equation Φ(ρ) = 1, where Φ is the probability generating function for the wager. In the situation of incomplete information about the distribution of the wager, one is interested in bounds depending only on the first few moments of the wager. Ethier and Khoshnevisan (2002) derive bounds depending explicitly on the first four moments. However, these bounds do not make the best possible use of the available information. Based on the theory of s-convex extremal random variables among arithmetic and real random variables, a substantial improvement can be given. By fixed first four moments of the wager, the obtained new bounds are nearly perfect analytical approximations to the exact bounds of Feller.
Tunable photoluminescence for a novel silver–gold mixed metal system

Abstract A series of crystals of the type La[Ag x Au 1− x (CN) 2 ] 3 , x = 0, 0.5, 0.9, 1.0, has been studied using both steady-state and time-resolved luminescence methods. The mixed Ag–Au samples display an anomalously strong luminescence at ambient temperatures. This luminescence is also strongly tunable in that changing physical parameters such as temperature, excitation wavelength or Ag/Au ratio results in changes in the emission energy of the sample.
Magnetic flux relaxation in YBa2Cu3O7−x thin film: thermal or athermal

The magnetic flux relaxation behavior of YBa2Cu3O(7-x) thin film on LaAlO3 for H is parallel to c was studied in the range 4.2 - 40 K and 0.2 - 1.0 T. Both the normalized flux relaxation rate S and the net flux pinning energy U increase continuously from 1.3 x 10(exp -2) to 3.0 x 10(exp -2) and from 70 to 240 meV respectively, as the temperature T increases from 10 to 40 K. This behavior is consistent with the thermally activated flux motion model. At low temperatures, however, S is found to decrease much more slowly as compared with kT, in contradiction to the thermal activation model. This behavior is discussed in terms of the athermal quantum tunneling of flux lines. The magnetic field dependence of U, however, is not completely understood.
Quantum Point Contacts for Neutral Atoms

We show that the conductance of atoms through a tightly confining waveguide constriction is quantized in units of ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathrm{dB}}^{2}/\ensuremath{\pi}$, where ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathrm{dB}}$ is the de Broglie wavelength of the incident atoms. Such a constriction forms the atom analog of an electron quantum point contact and is an example of quantum transport of neutral atoms in an aperiodic system. We present a practical constriction geometry that can be realized using a microfabricated magnetic waveguide, and discuss how a pair of such constrictions can be used to study the quantum statistics of weakly interacting gases in small traps.
Evaluation of the OECD 314B Activated Sludge Die-Away Test for Assessing the Biodegradation of Pharmaceuticals

The European Medicines Agency guideline for the environmental risk assessment of medicinal products provides a step-by-step phased approach to evaluate the potential risks of new medicines to the environment. Phase I (“prescreen”) estimates the initial exposure of the new medicine in the environment. Phase II A (“screen”) estimates the fate and effects in the environment. The fate screen determines the inherent properties of the new medicinal active ingredient to sorb to sludge, soil, and sediment matrices and its potential to degrade in a sewage treatment plant and in the subsequent water−sediment compartment. Current ERA Guidance (2006) recommends the OECD 301B Ready Biodegradation Test for Phase II Tier A testing without a clear recommendation for Phase II Tier B testing when further refinement may be needed. With the recent approval of the OECD 314B method for activated sludge, there is now an alternative test method that may be better suited for Phase II Tier A testing and to the data needs of the ER...
J. Joseph Errington, Shifting languages: Interaction and identity in Javanese Indonesian. (Studies in the social and cultural foundations of language, 19.) Cambridge & New York: Cambridge University Press, 1998. Pp. xii, 216.

Although Indonesia's New Order has been thrown into disorder recently, its project of engineering an Indonesian language has been deemed a miraculous success. At Indonesian independence in 1945, the artificial administrative Malay language – used by the Dutch to administer their East Indies colonial empire – was just one of several dialects of a language spoken natively by only a few million residents of the territory. Now its descendant, Indonesian, is a “fully viable, universally acknowledged national language … clearly ascendant over hundreds of languages spoken natively among more than two hundred million Indonesians” (p. 2). Errington, author of two earlier books on Javanese, here turns his attention to that modernist state project of building Indonesian, and to evolving patterns of bilingualism among the Javanese, the demographically and politically dominant ethnic community of Indonesia. He gives us not only a detailed analysis of language use, but also a fascinating ethnographic account of Indonesian national development as it is interactionally constituted in two aptly chosen villages in the region around Solo (Surakarta). This study exemplifies an ethnographically grounded, culturally nuanced approach to bilingualism and language change.
Mineralogy and geochemistry of two metamorphosed sedimentary manganese deposits, Sierra Nevada, California, USA

Abstract Laminated to massive rhodochrosite, hausmannite, and Mn-silicates from the Smith prospect and Manga-Chrome mine, Sierra Nevada, California were deposited as ocean floor sediments associated with chert and shale. The principal lithologies at Smith are chert, argillite, rhodochrosite-, hausmannite- and chlorite-rich layers, and relatively uncommon layers of jacobsite. The Manga-Chrome mine also contains layers rich in manganoan calcite and caryopilite. Tephroite, rhodonite, spessartine, and accessory alleghanyite and sonolite formed during metamorphism. Volcaniclastic components are present at Manga-Chrome as metavolcanic clasts and as Mn-poor, red, garnet- and hematite-rich layers. There is no evidence, such as relict lithologies, that Mn was introduced into Mn-poor lithologies such as chert, limestone or mudstone. Replacement of Mn-poor phases by Mn-rich phases is observed only in the groundmass of volcanic clasts that appear to have fallen into soft Mn-rich mud. Manganiferous samples from the Smith prospect and Manga-Chrome mine have high Mn Fe and low concentrations of Ni, Cu, Zn, Co, U, Th and the rare-earth elements that are similar to concentrations reported from other ancient Mn deposits found in chert-greenstone complexes and from manganiferous sediments and crusts that are forming near modern sea floor vents. The Sierra Nevada deposits formed as precipitates of Mn-rich sediments on the sea floor, probably from mixtures of circulating hydrothermal fluids and seawater. The composition of a metabasalt from the Smith prospect is consistent with those of island-arc tholeiites. Metavolcanic clasts from the Manga-Chrome mine are compositionally distinct from the Smith metabasalt and have alkaline to calc-alkaline affinities. A back-arc basin is considered to be the most likely paleoenvironment for the formation of the Mn-rich lenses at the Manga-Chrome mine and, by association, the Smith prospect. Layers of rhodochrosite, hausmannite and chert preserve the composition and some textures of the sedimentary protoliths at both Sierra Nevada deposits. Jacobsite-rich layers probably represent a Fe-rich protolith. Caryopilite and manganoan calcite represent additional protoliths at the Manga-Chrome mine. The metamorphic assemblage prehnite-chlorite-epidote-calcite in a metabasalt from the Smith prospect constrains regional metamorphic conditions to a maximum temperature of 325°C and a pressure of 2 kbar. Slightly higher temperatures are indicated by the presence of actinolite in another metabasalt. Compositions of Mn-rich minerals in Smith samples are consistent with these metamorphic conditions.
Cardiac Thin Filament Structural Modulation by Sarcomere Length

Myofilament Length Dependent Activation (LDA) forms the cellular basis of the Frank-Starling law observed on the heart. LDA has been studied intensively and appears to be modulated through various mechanisms, such as contractile proteins composition and their phosphorylation status. However, the cellular molecular mechanisms that underlie this phenomenon are still not well characterized.The aim of our study is to determine whether LDA is regulated through cTnC structural changes upon stretch. Accordingly, we used a single attached skinned cardiac myocyte in combination with confocal fluorescent measurement. Using this technique, we found that stretch of a relaxed cell, in the absence of Ca2+, resulted in marked alterations of cTnC structure as reported by cTnC-T53C-IAF confocal fluorescence. Moreover, titin mutant cells show a drastic alteration of both passive tension and myofilament sensitivity to calcium (pCa50) upon stretch. Consistent with this finding, by employing time-resolved x-ray diffraction of intact, electrically stimulated rat myocardium, we found marked changes in troponin and myosin structure upon stretch in the diastolic phase (i.e. when cross-bridges are not active). Moreover, we repeated these x-ray experiments using rat myocardium that expresses an unusually long titin molecule and found that, when compared to WT, diastolic stretch in these muscles did not induce the structural changes in troponin and myosin observed in WT. These results strongly suggest a direct effect of sarcomere length on thin and thick filament and implicate titin to be the molecule underling the length signal transduction for LDA.
New onset focal weakness in children with Down syndrome

New onset focal weakness is relatively common in patients with Down syndrome (DS), and has broad differential diagnosis. Ten cases of new onset focal weakness in patients with DS were encountered or are currently being followed in two DS clinics, with a combined population of patients of approximately 850, for a clinic population prevalence of 1.2%. The median age at presentation was 4 years old (range 1 month-44 years). The causes of new onset focal weakness were: stroke from Moyamoya disease (two patients); stroke from vaso occlusive disease (one patient); stroke from venus sinus thrombosis (one patient); traumatic subdural hematoma (one patient); brain abscess (one patient); spinal cord injury (SCI) from cervical spinal stenosis (two patients); SCI from atlantoaxial instability (AAI) (one patient); and brachial plexus injury (one patient). Of the 10 patients with focal weakness, 8 had potentially treatable conditions, and 5 had surgery. The differential diagnosis of new onset focal weakness in DS is broad, with diseases reported involving all levels of the nervous system from brain to muscle. For some diagnoses, expeditious diagnosis may improve outcome.
Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension in Childhood and Adolescence

Objectives To describe the clinical and radiographic manifestations of spontaneous intracranial hypotension, a rarely diagnosed cause of headache in children. Study design This study included patients 19 years of age or younger evaluated between January 1, 2001, and June 30, 2012, for spontaneous intracranial hypotension. Results We evaluated 24 children (18 girls and 6 boys) with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (age at onset of symptoms: 2-19 years, mean 14.3 years). Twenty-three patients presented with orthostatic headaches and 1 presented with a nonpositional headache. A generalized connective tissue disorder was diagnosed in 54% of patients. Magnetic resonance imaging showed the typical changes of spontaneous intracranial hypotension in most patients (79%). Spinal imaging demonstrated a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak with or without an associated meningeal diverticulum in 12 patients (50%) and with dural ectasia or meningeal diverticula in 10 patients (42%), and it was normal in 2 patients (8%). Twenty-three patients initially underwent epidural blood patching, but 8 patients also were treated with percutaneous injections of fibrin glue and 11 patients eventually required surgical correction of the underlying CSF leak. There was no morbidity or mortality associated with any of the treatments, but 5 patients required acetazolamide for rebound high intracranial pressure headache. Overall, outcome was good in 22 patients (92%) and poor in 2 patients (8%). Conclusions Spontaneous intracranial hypotension in childhood is rare. Most patients can be treated effectively using a combination of epidural blood patching and percutaneous injections of fibrin glue or surgical CSF leak repair in refractory cases.
Long-Term Outcome of Isolated Diaphyseal Radius Fractures With and Without Dislocation of the Distal Radioulnar Joint

Purpose We tested the hypothesis that there are no differences between apparently isolated fractures of the radial diaphysis and isolated fractures of the radial diaphysis with concomitant dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) in function, disability, and DRUJ stability more than 13 years after near-anatomic open reduction with plate and screw fixation. Methods We evaluated 17 adult patients with a diaphyseal fracture of the radius without a fracture of the ulna an average of 19 years after surgery (range, 13–33 y). Of these patients, 7 had concomitant dislocation of the DRUJ (Galeazzi fracture). At the long-term follow-up, we evaluated function with several composite scores, stability of the DRUJ, and arm-specific disability by using the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. Results The average scores were 96 (range, 85–100) on the Mayo Modified Wrist Score, 95 (range, 80–100) on the Mayo Elbow Performance Index, and 5 (range, 0–33) on the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. There were no significant differences between patients with and without DRUJ dislocation. No patients had greater laxity of the DRUJ than the opposite uninjured side. Conclusions Near-anatomic open reduction and internal fixation of diaphyseal radius fractures with and without associated DRUJ dislocation have comparable long-term results. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
Calculation of deformation energies and conformations in lipid membranes containing gramicidin channels

In this paper we calculate surface conformation and deformation free energy associated with the incorporation of gramicidin channels into phospholipid bilayer membranes. Two types of membranes are considered. One is a relatively thin solvent-free membrane. The other is a thicker solvent-containing membrane. We follow the approach used for the thin membrane case by Huang (1986) in that we use smectic liquid crystal theory to evaluate the free energy associated with distorting the membrane to other than a flat configuration. Our approach is different from Huang, however, in two ways. One is that we include a term for surface tension, which Huang did not. The second is that one of our four boundary conditions for solving the fourth-order differential equation describing the free energy of the surface is different from Huang's. The details of the difference are described in the text. Our results confirm that for thin membranes Huang's neglect of surface tension is appropriate. However, the precise geometrical form that we calculate for the surface of the thin membrane in the region of the gramicidin channel is somewhat different from his. For thicker membranes that have to deform to a greater extent to accommodate the channel, we find that the contribution of surface tension to the total energy in the deformed surface is significant. Computed results for the shape of the deformed surface, the total energy in the deformed surface, and the contributions of different components to the total energy, are presented for the two types of membranes considered. These results may be significant for understanding the mechanisms of dimer formation and breakup, and the access resistance for ions entering gramicidin channels.
Melanoma survival in the United States, 1992 to 2005.

Background Population-based data on melanoma survival are important for understanding the impact of demographic and clinical factors on prognosis. Objective We describe melanoma survival by age, sex, race/ethnicity, stage, depth, histology, and site. Methods Using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data, we calculated unadjusted cause-specific survival up to 10 years from diagnosis for 68,495 first primary cases of melanoma diagnosed from 1992 to 2005. Cox multivariate analysis was performed for 5-year survival. Data from 1992 to 2001 were divided into 3 time periods to compare stage distribution and differences in stage-specific 5-year survival over time. Results Melanomas that had metastasized (distant stage) or were thicker than 4.00 mm had a poor prognosis (5-year survival: 15.7% and 56.6%). The 5-year survival for men was 86.8% and for persons given the diagnosis at age 65 years or older was 83.2%, varying by stage at diagnosis. Scalp/neck melanoma had lower 5-year survival (82.6%) than other anatomic sites; unspecified/overlapping lesions had the least favorable prognosis (41.5%). Nodular and acral lentiginous melanomas had the poorest 5-year survival among histologic subtypes (69.4% and 81.2%, respectively). Survival differences by race/ethnicity were observed in the unadjusted survival, but nonsignificant in the multivariate analysis. Overall 5-year melanoma survival increased from 87.7% to 90.1% for melanomas diagnosed in 1992 through 1995 compared with 1999 through 2001, and this change was not clearly associated with a shift toward localized diagnosis. Limitations Prognostic factors included in revised melanoma staging guidelines were not available for all study years and were not examined. Conclusions Poorer survival from melanoma was observed among those given the diagnosis at late stage and older age. Improvements in survival over time have been minimal. Although newly available therapies may impact survival, prevention and early detection are relevant to melanoma-specific survival.
Effects of Aluminum Implantation on the Oxidation Behavior of Silicon Nitride in a Sodium Nitrate-Oxygen Gas Mixture

The role of aluminum in negating the adverse effect of alkali species on the oxidation resistance of Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} ceramics was investigated by exposing unimplanted and aluminum-implanted (1 and 5 at.%) Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} samples to a sodium nitrate (95 ppm)-dry oxygen gas mixture at 1 atm and at 900--1100 C. Oxidation of unimplanted Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} was rapid and linear with an activation energy of 57 kJ/mol. In contrast, samples implanted with aluminum exhibited a considerably reduced oxide growth which was parabolic in nature with activation energies of 103--112 kJ/mol. The morphological characteristics of the oxide layer also showed marked improvement as the aluminum concentration increased.
Gas sensing characteristics of multi-wall carbon nanotubes

Abstract Impedance spectroscopy was used to study the gas sensing behavior of both capacitance and resistance based sensors employing multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) as the active sensing element. Studies revealed the chemisorption of reducing gases upon the surface of the MWNTs. Increasing sensor impedance was observed with increasing humidity or partial pressures of ammonia, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. The impedance changes are attributed to p-type conductivity in semiconducting MWNTs, and the formation of Schottky barriers between the metallic and semiconducting nanotubes. Reversible behavior is demonstrated for the MWNT sensors in response to humidity, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. The MWNT sensors strongly respond to ammonia behaving as dosimeters.
Hippocampal Dysfunction and Cognitive Impairments Provoked by Chronic Early-Life Stress Involve Excessive Activation of CRH Receptors

Chronic stress impairs learning and memory in humans and rodents and disrupts long-term potentiation (LTP) in animal models. These effects are associated with structural changes in hippocampal neurons, including reduced dendritic arborization. Unlike the generally reversible effects of chronic stress on adult rat hippocampus, we have previously found that the effects of early-life stress endure and worsen during adulthood, yet the mechanisms for these clinically important sequelae are poorly understood. Stress promotes secretion of the neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from hippocampal interneurons, activating receptors (CRF1) located on pyramidal cell dendrites. Additionally, chronic CRF1 occupancy negatively affects dendritic arborization in mouse organotypic slice cultures, similar to the pattern observed in middle-aged, early-stressed (CES) rats. Here we found that CRH-expression is augmented in hippocampus of middle-aged CES rats, and then tested if the morphological defects and poor memory performance in these animals involve excessive activation of CRF1 receptors. Central or peripheral administration of a CRF1 blocker following the stress period improved memory performance of CES rats in novel object recognition tests and in the Morris water maze. Consonant with these effects, the antagonist also prevented dendritic atrophy and LTP attenuation in CA1 Schaffer collateral synapses. Together, these data suggest that persistently elevated hippocampal CRH-CRF1 interaction contributes importantly to the structural and cognitive impairments associated with early-life stress. Reducing CRF1 occupancy post-hoc normalized hippocampal function during middle-age, thus offering potential mechanism-based therapeutic interventions for children affected by chronic stress.
A Survey of Catfish Management in the United States and Canada

Abstract We surveyed resource agencies in the United States and Canada to assess the status of the management of catfish species \[primarily channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), blue catfish (I. furcatus), and flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris)\]. Thirty-two of the fifty-three agencies we surveyed considered catfish to be either moderately or highly important to anglers. Twenty-eight states allowed commercial fishing in selected waters. Catfish populations were managed primarily by creel limits and gear restrictions, and less frequently by size limits. Put-grow-take fisheries for channel catfish were popular in small impoundments, and most catfish stockings were associated with these fisheries. Managers most commonly used gill nets and electrofishing to sample catfishes and used catch-per-unit effort, size structure, and creel information to evaluate catfish populations. Major constraints to the management of catfishes included (1) low priority or angler interest, (2) inadequate habitat, (3) inadequ...
Static and Optical Transverse and Longitudinal Screened Polarizabilities of Boron Nitride Nanotubes

We have investigated static and optical transverse and longitudinal screened polarizabilities of single-walled (SWBNNT) and multiwalled (MWBNNT) boron nitride nanotubes by using the density functional perturbation theory. The static and optical transverse and longitudinal screened polarizabilities of SWBNNTs all increase linearly with the radius and are smaller than those of similar-sized single-walled carbon nanotubes. The screened optical transverse polarizabilities of SWBNNTs are found to be about half that of the unscreened ones. In addition to the screened polarizabilities themselves, the ratio between the static and optical screened polarizabilities of SWBNNTs also exhibits anisotropy. In contrast to multiwalled carbon nanotubes, where the inner tube is almost completely shielded by the outer tube, in MWBNNTs, the inner tube is only partially shielded by the outer tube when a transverse electric field is applied.
Information Literacy for the Next Generation

(1996). Information Literacy for the Next Generation. Journal of Architectural Education: Vol. 49, No. 3, pp. 204-206.
The decay of Cd117 and Cd117m and directional correlation of gamma rays in In117

Abstract The gamma rays of In 117 , following the beta decay of Cd 117 and Cd 117m were studied with a scintillation coincidence spectrometer. The prominent energy levels are 310, 400, 590, 745, 860, 1070, 1710, 1880, 1975, 2120 and 2320 keV. The directional correlation functions for the 345 keV-90 keV and 1290 keV-280 keV cascades in In 117 have been measured. A spin of 3 2 has been assigned to the 400 keV and 590 keV levels. Possible spins for the 745 keV level are 1 2 , 3 2 , 5 2 and for the 1880 keV level the spins may be 1 2 or 3 2 . The experimental level structure is compared with the theoretical predictions.
Developing a graduate forensic nursing elective

Summary The forensic nursing and trauma nursing courses canbe presented as individual or complementary graduate courses. Knowledge of forensic principles enhances thenurse's assessment and documentation skills that can serve to support and substantiate his or her suspicions of criminal or abusive sciences can better serve the public who come to their agencies in search of help, compassion, and safety-and sometimes even justice.
Processing of SeaMARC swath sonar data

A description is given of the acquisition and processing of data collected by a class of high-resolution sonar systems, the SeaMARC (seafloor mapping and remote characterization) swath mapping sonars. The SeaMARC system has two basic configurations: deep-towed, which acquires high-resolution backscatter imagery at slow survey speeds, and shallow-towed, which simultaneously acquires lower resolution backscatter and bathymetric information at higher speeds. Processing techniques applied to the data after acquisition are fairly independent of the initial towing configuration and include: compaction of the original data by decimation; radiometric corrections (noise removal, destriping, beam pattern correction, and contrast enhancement); derivation and merging of vehicle navigation with the sonar data; integration of backscatter and bathymetric information; and geometric corrections for plotting data in geographic coordinates. >
Compilation to compact code

A compilation process is described that emphasizes small object code rather than fast object code. The approach entails synthesizing an instruction set and an interpreter for that instruction set during compilation of an individual source program. Numerical results are given for compiling a systems programming subset of PL/I to System/370 code.
Peering Into the Cardiomyocyte Nuclear Epigenetic State.

Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, and histone acetylation or methylation, regulate gene expression either by suppressing or activating target genes. Modifications, such as DNA methylation and trimethylation of H3K9 and H3K27, are well-described characteristics of heterochromatin, tightly packed DNA that can repress gene expression,1,2 whereas trimethylation of H3K4 and H3K36, methylation of H3K4, and acetylation of H3K27 all act to open chromatin structures and stimulate transcriptional activity.3 Cell fate and differentiation is dependent on epigenetic modifications; however, detailed analysis of cell type–specific epigenetic marks and the resultant transcriptional profiles in myocardium has been largely unexplored. Article, see p 413 Aberrant regulation of epigenetic networks during embryonic development can result in congenital heart disease, which affects ≤2% of newborns and is the most common of all birth defects.4 There is compelling evidence that misregulation of epigenetic modifiers may be responsible for many cases of congenital heart disease. A recent case–control study identified de novo causative gene mutations by investigating exome sequences of patients affected with severe congenital heart disease. Surprisingly, many mutations were involved in histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3), including a gene known to cause congenital heart disease called histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2D.5 Mutations in this histone methyltransferase are well known to be the underlying cause of Kabuki syndrome, which results in congenital heart defects among an array of other phenotypic abnormalities.6 Deletion of histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2D impairs embryonic stem cell proliferation and differentiation to cardiomyocytes in vitro, demonstrating a critical role for histone methylation in cardiomyocyte specification.7 In addition to embryonic differentiation, …
Linear accelerator configurations for radiosurgery

The dramatic proliferation of radiosurgery in the 1980s and 1990s has resulted in the development of a plethora of hardware systems and an exponential increase in clinical use. This article summarizes the initial, now mostly historical, developments and emphasizes that most linear accelerator radiosurgery systems are based on three early prototypical systems from Buenos Aires, Heidelberg, and Montreal. These systems have more recently been tailored to permit fractionated radiosurgery, blurring the distinction between radiosurgery and radiotherapy. The commonly used fractionated systems are described. Clinical outcome data for arteriovenous malformations, acoustic neuroma, and meningioma, are mostly preliminary but substantial data are available for the radiosurgical management of metastases. With the recent emphasis on cost containment, cost-effectiveness issues have become significant and at least for metastases some preliminary data suggest a potential "cost benefit" with radiosurgery. The recent publication of data from a prospective randomized trial has established the superiority of boost therapy for malignant glioma and in this article, we present preliminary evidence supporting the use of radiosurgery. Finally, some of the new and exciting developments such as the robot-mounted linear accelerator, the use of shaped fields, and tomotherapy are described.
The Impact of Sponsor Fit on Brand Equity: The Case of Nonprofit Service Providers

As the nonprofit sector becomes increasingly competitive, it is critical for nonprofit service organizations to become more brand centered and to differentiate themselves in the marketplace. The two studies show that high-fit sponsorship programs between nonprofit service firms and businesses positively influence brand identity via broad associations and brand meaning, brand response, and brand relationships through specific associations. Conversely, low-fit sponsorship programs are likely to hinder nonprofit brand management strategies by negatively affecting brand identity, brand meaning, brand response, and brand relationships. Finally, the results reveal that nonprofit service organizations can use supportive communications to counter the risks of strategic alliances with low-fit businesses.
Glucosamine-6-sulfamate Analogues of Heparan Sulfate as Inhibitors of Endosulfatases

Keeping Sulfate. The extracellular endosulfatases, which modulate signalling pathways by removing sulfate groups from heparan, can be inhibited by replacing the 6-sulfate destined for cleavage with an inhibitory sulfamate motif, as demonstrated by simple glucosamine-6-sulfamate analogs of heparan sulfate.
National forest carbon inventories: policy needs and assessment capacity

Previous research has identified the importance of the role of land cover in the global carbon cycle. In particular, forests have been identified as a significant carbon sink that can mitigate the rate of global climate change. Policy makers are faced with complex and difficult challenges in getting timely and useful information in monitoring global forest resources. Recent advances in the tools and methods of forest carbon accounting have produced new, innovative approaches to forest-based carbon inventories. But it is important as new tools are developed that scientists understand the needs of policy makers and that policy makers understand the capabilities and limitations of forest inventory methods. This paper explores four different policy applications that rely, or could benefit from, national carbon inventories. The goal is to help build a bridge between the communities of climate policy makers and scientists specialized in forest carbon inventories. To this end, we pursue three specific objectives: First we provide an overview for policy makers about approaches to forest carbon inventories, paying particular attention to the contributions of remote sensing technologies. Second, we outline the issues particularly relevant to forest inventory scientists who are interested in responding to public policy needs. We then discuss the tradeoffs between information cost, accuracy, precision, transparency and timeliness that need to be balanced in long-term monitoring of forest carbon. Finally, the article concludes with a series of observations and recommendations for the implementation of forest carbon inventories as increasingly central components of global climate change policy.
Outcome of crisis intervention for borderline personality disorder and post traumatic stress disorder: a model for modification of the mechanism of disorder in complex post traumatic syndromes

Background This study investigates the outcome of crisis intervention for chronic post traumatic disorders with a model based on the theory that such crises manifest trauma in the present. The sufferer's behavior is in response to the current perception of dependency and entrapment in a mistrusted relationship. The mechanism of disorder is the sufferer's activity, which aims to either prove or disprove the perception of entrapment, but, instead, elicits more semblances of it in a circular manner. Patients have reasons to keep such activity private from therapy and are barely aware of it as the source of their symptoms.
Supporting a visualization application on a self-adapting grid middleware

This paper describes how we have used a self-adapting middleware to implement a distributed and adaptive volume rendering application. The middleware we have used is GATES (grid-based adaptive execution on streams), which allows processing of streaming data in a distributed environment. A challenge in supporting such an application on streaming data is to balance the visualization quality and the speed of processing, which can be automatically done by the GATES middleware. We describe how we divide the application into a number of processing stages, and what adaptation parameters we use. Our experimental studies have focused on evaluating the self-adaptation enabled by the middleware, and measuring the overhead associated with the use of middleware.
Longitudinal adherence with fecal occult blood test screening in community practice.

PURPOSE Although screening with fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) reduces colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality, its effectiveness may diminish if patients do not adhere with repeated screenings. Among patients who had previously engaged in FOBT screening, we assessed subsequent adherence with FOBT screening. METHODS We assessed longitudinal adherence with biennial FOBT screening (every other year) within a cohort of patients enrolled in an integrated Washington State health plan. Among 11,110 patients who participated in FOBT screening during a 2-year baseline period (2000–2001), we ascertained CRC screening use during a subsequent 2-year observation period (2002–2003). We used multinomial logistic regression to identify patient characteristics associated with higher incidence of repeat CRC screening (with or without FOBT) relative to patients who received no CRC screening. RESULTS Despite prior participation in FOBT screening, less than one-half of patients (44.4%; 95% CI, 42.9%–45.8%) completed FOBT screening during the 2-year observation period. Although 8.8% of patients (95% CI, 8.0%–9.7%) received other CRC tests without FOBT during the observation period, nearly one-half, 46.8% (95% CI, 45.3%–48.4%), received no CRC screening. After adjustment for other patient characteristics, receipt of a preventive health examination was strongly associated with FOBT adherence relative to no CRC screening (adjusted relative rate ratio = 11.16; 95% CI, 9.61–12.96). CONCLUSIONS Longitudinal adherence with FOBT screening was low in this insured population, potentially compromising its effectiveness in population CRC mortality reduction. Interventions to promote adherence may be necessary to achieve high effectiveness in population-based FOBT screening programs.
A Rapid Stain-Clearing Method for Video Based Cytological Analysis of Cotton Megagametophytes

Optical “clearing” is a cost saving method for preparing large numbers of whole, dissected or thickly sectioned cytological specimens such as plant ovules and ovaries. Minimal labor is required and specimens retain three-dimensional integrity. Previous development of high contrast stain-clearing methods using hemalum to impart contrast has facilitated analysis and photography under brightfield illumination for small ovules. The deep stain intensity of hemalum, however, often precludes adequate light transmission and contrast within internal focal planes, limiting the applicability of hemalum-based stain-clearing to small specimens. Having encountered this problem for nucelli of cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.), which are roughly 300 μm thick at fertilization, we have developed a modified stain-clearing system. The two key features of these new methods are the use of azure, C, which allows the intensity of staining to be readily regulated, and contrast manipulation via video signal and image processing. In...
Identification and Characterization of a cis-Acting Replication Element (cre) Adjacent to the Internal Ribosome Entry Site of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus

Over the last few years, an essential RNA structure known as the cis-acting replicative element (cre) has been identified within the protein-coding region of several picornaviruses. The cre, a stem-loop structure containing a conserved AAACA motif, functions as a template for addition of U residues to the protein primer 3B. By surveying the genomes of representatives of several serotypes of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), we discovered a putative cre in the 5' untranslated region of the genome (contiguous with the internal ribosome entry site [IRES]). To confirm the role of this putative cre in replication, we tested the importance of the AAACA motif and base pairing in the stem in FMDV genome replication. To this end, cre mutations were cloned into an FMDV replicon and into synthetic viral genomes. Analyses of the properties of these replicons and genomes revealed the following. (i) Mutations in the AAACA motif severely reduced replication, and all viruses recovered from genomes containing mutated AAACA sequences had reverted to the wild-type sequence. (ii) Mutations in the stem region showed that the ability to form this base-paired structure was important for replication. Although the cre was contiguous with the IRES, the mutations we created did not significantly reduce IRES-mediated translation in vivo. Finally, the position of the cre at the 5' end of the genome was shown not to be critical for replication, since functional replicons and viruses lacking the 5' cre could be obtained if a wild-type cre was added to the genome following the 3D(pol) coding region. Taken together, these results support the importance of the cre in replication and demonstrate that the activity of this essential element does not require localization within the polyprotein-encoding region of the genome.
Rethinking “Brand Aid” in an Increasingly Unequal, Unstable, and Global World

Richey and Ponte (2011) explore the dark side of corporate social responsibility as practiced by the RED campaign. The campaign was launched in the 1990s to celebrate the possibility of doing good and helping impoverished, diseased Others in the South, while consuming products produced by its members including Starbucks, American Express, Emporio Armani, Converse, Gap, Apple, and Motorola. Buttressed by the power of celebrities such as Bono, Oprah, and Angelina Jolie, as well as development experts/celebrities such as Paul Farmer and Jeffrey Sachs, the RED campaign has provided Northern consumers with a rationale for feeling good while purchasing expensive lattes, sneakers, clothing, and computers. As the (RED) Manifesto claims, if you buy RED products, you will also support the efforts of “good, socially conscious companies” to save helpless, diseased Africans from dying of AIDS. The RED campaign thus not only provides a rationale for conscientious shopping, it also dramatizes the gap between the “rich” North and the impoverished, diseased bodies of the global South, and reinforces the neoliberal claim that unfettered but responsible capitalism is the key to solving the problems of the poverty-stricken global South. Brand Aid raises important questions about corporate social responsibility and the power of brands to influence consumer decisions and legitimate “business-friendly” governance. Yet the book's analysis is constrained by its focus on …
Preparing Elementary School Counselors to Promote Career Development: Recommendations for School Counselor Education Programs.

Career development at the elementary level is an important developmental function to ensure all students graduate college and career ready. However, the training and continuing education needs of elementary school counselors have been largely ignored in the professional literature and in training programs. This article explores the theoretical and empirical support for career development at the primary level and the challenges in training elementary school counselors. Recommendations for modifications to school counselor educator programs are offered, and future research and continuing education needs for school counselors are explored.
Compliance with the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003

Studying the application of the CAN-SPAM Act and its effect on controlling unsolicited email messages.
A simple apparatus for administering 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin to commercially available pelletized fish food†

A simple apparatus for loading chemicals onto commercially available, pelletized fish food is described. An analysis of several food nutrients indicated the procedure using n-hexane (50 ml n-hexane:200 g food) had an inconsequential influence on their concentrations, i.e., only lauric acid and margaroleic acid exhibited reductions ≥ 10%, 25%, and 17%, respectively. Of 35 batches of food laden with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), only 40% of the loadings were within 10% of the desired value. However, in terms of the within-batch variability, all loadings exhibited a coefficient of variation (CV) ≤15%, and over 60% of the loadings exhibited a CV ≤10%.
Experimental Characterization of Micro-Friction on a Mica Surface Using the Lateral Motion and Force Measurement Capability of an Instrumented Indenter

An experimental characterization of friction forces between asymmetric surfaces in the micro-regime is presented. The lateral motion and force-measurement capability of an instrumented indenter (triboindenter) is characterized and explored for determining friction properties at low velocities. Friction experiments are performed using the triboindenter with high repeatability. It is observed that real-time depth measurements closely follow the Hertzian prediction. Friction spikes with magnitudes depending on the drive velocity input are observed with peak friction force increasing with the dwell time. Anisotropy is observed between surfaces of different materials with stick-slip occurring only at specific relative orientations. Directions for expanding the current range of the triboindenter to obtain data from the nano to the macro scale are also presented.
Nanoleakage, ultramorphological characteristics, and microtensile bond strengths of a new low-shrinkage composite to dentin after artificial aging

Abstract Objectives To study the microtensile bond strengths and nanoleakage of low-shrinkage composite to dentin. The null hypotheses tested were (1) aging does not affect the bonding of low-shrinkage composite; (2) there is no difference in microtensile bond strengths and nanoleakage using different bonding strategies. Methods 32 extracted molars were assigned to one of four groups: LS System Adhesive (LS, 3M ESPE); dentin etched for 15 s with phosphoric acid + LS System Adhesive (LSpa); Adper Single Bond Plus (SB, 3M ESPE); SB + LS Bond (SBLS). Occlusal dentin was exposed and restored with Filtek LS (3M ESPE). The samples were tested after 24 h or after 20,000 thermocycles and 6 months of aging. Teeth were sectioned with a cross-section of 0.8 ± 0.2 mm 2 and fractured at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The data were submitted to ANOVA/Duncan's post hoc test, at p p Results No statistically significant difference was found among the experimental groups for the factor dentin treatment ( p = 0.165) and aging ( p = 0.091). All experimental groups exhibit some degree of nanoleakage. There was no adhesion of Filtek LS applied directly over dentin surfaces treated with SB. Significance The new low-shrinkage resin composite showed compatibility only with its dedicated adhesive. Pre-etching did not improve the bond strengths to low-shrinkage resin composite. Some degree of nanoleakage was evident in all groups.